SCAN_51-01

51-01 BIOLOGY (GENERAL)
Nov 22, 2009 -- Additions to the NASA scientific and technical information knowledge base

Title:
A Cell Kinetic Model of Granulocytopoiesis Under Radiation Exposure: Extension from Murines to Canines and Humans
Document ID:
20090037667
Report #:
JSC-CN-19109
Sales Agency:
Other Sources Copyright
Author(s):
Hu, Shaowen (Universities Space Research Association) Cucinotta, Francis A. (NASA Johnson Space Center)
Published:
20091025
Source:
Universities Space Research Association (Houston, TX, United States)
Pages:
1
Contract #:
None
Abstract:
Space radiation poses significant challenges to space travel, and it is essential to understand the possible adverse effects from space radiation exposure to the radiosensitive organ systems that are important for immediate survival of human, e.g., the hematopoietic system. In this presentation a biomathematical model of granulocytopoiesis is described and used to analyze the blood granulocyte changes seen in the blood of mammalians under continuous and acute radiation exposure. This is one of a set of hematopoietic models that have been successfully utilized to simulate and interpret the experimental data of acute and chronic radiation on rodents. We discuss the underlying implicit regulation mechanism and the biological relevance of the kinetic parameters estimation method. Extension of the model to predictions in dogs and humans systems indicates that the modeling results are consistent with the cumulative experimental and empirical data from various sources. This implies the potential to integrate the models into one united system for monitoring the hematopoietic response of various species under irradiation. Based on the evidence of threshold responses of dogs to extended periods of low daily dose exposures, we discuss the potential health risks of the space traveler under chronic stress of low-dose irradiation and the possibly encountered Solar Particle Events.
Language:
English
Notes:
15th International Symposium on Microdosimetry (MICROS 2009) Verona 25-30 Oct. 2009

Title:
Evaluating the Impact of Land Use Change on Submerged Aquatic Vegetation Stressors in Mobile Bay
Document ID:
20090038176
Report #:
M09-0611
Sales Agency:
Other Sources Copyright
Author(s):
Al-Hamdan, Mohammad (NASA Marshall Space Flight Center) Estes, Maurice G., Jr. (NASA Marshall Space Flight Center) Quattrochi, Dale (NASA Marshall Space Flight Center) Thom, Ronald (NASA Marshall Space Flight Center) Woodruff, Dana (NASA Marshall Space Flight Center) Judd, Chaeli (NASA Marshall Space Flight Center) Ellis, Jean (NASA Marshall Space Flight Center) Watson, Brian (NASA Marshall Space Flight Center) Rodriquez, Hugo (NASA Marshall Space Flight Center) Johnson, Hoyt (NASA Marshall Space Flight Center)
Published:
20090909
Source:
NASA Marshall Space Flight Center (Huntsville, AL, United States)
Pages:
1
Contract #:
None
Abstract:
Alabama coastal systems have been subjected to increasing pressure from a variety of activities including urban and rural development, shoreline modifications, industrial activities, and dredging of shipping and navigation channels. The impacts on coastal ecosystems are often observed through the use of indicator species. One such indicator species for aquatic ecosystem health is submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV). Watershed and hydrodynamic modeling has been performed to evaluate the impact of land use change in Mobile and Baldwin counties on SAV stressors and controlling factors (temperature, salinity, and sediment) in Mobile Bay. Watershed modeling using the Loading Simulation Package in C++ (LSPC) was performed for all watersheds contiguous to Mobile Bay for land use scenarios in 1948, 1992, 2001, and 2030. Landsat-derived National Land Cover Data (NLCD) were used in the 1992 and 2001 simulations after having been reclassified to a common classification scheme. The Prescott Spatial Growth Model was used to project the 2030 land use scenario based on current trends. The LSPC model simulations provided output on changes in flow, temperature, and sediment for 22 discharge points into the Bay. Theses results were inputted in the Environmental Fluid Dynamics Computer Code (EFDC) hydrodynamic model to generate data on changes in temperature, salinity, and sediment on a grid with four vertical profiles throughout Mobile Bay. The changes in the aquatic ecosystem were used to perform an ecological analysis to evaluate the impact on SAV habitat suitability. This is the key product benefiting the Mobile Bay coastal environmental managers that integrates the influences of temperature, salinity, and sediment due to land use driven flow changes with the restoration potential of SAVs.
Language:
English
Notes:
23rd Alabama Water Resources Conference and AWRA Symposium Orange Beach, AL 9-11 Sep. 2009

Title:
The Integrative Studies of Genetic and Environmental Factors in Systemic Sclerosis
Document ID:
20090038212
Report #:
AD-A506271
Available Online:
http://hdl.handle.net/100.2/ADA506271
Sales Agency:
Defense Technical Information Center (DTIC) No Copyright
Author(s):
Zhou, Xiaodong
Published:
20090501
Source:
Texas Univ. Health Science Center (Houston, TX United States)
Pages:
56
Contract #:
W81XWH-07-1-0277
Abstract:
During this second year of the project, we established multiple primary cell strains from normal controls and SSc patients. We performed stimulation assays with silica in 82 primary fibroblast strains. Our results showed that silica activate fibroblasts toward fibrotic changes. However, different fibroblast strains obtained from different individuals showed different responses in terms of the gene expression of the ECM components. Using longitudinal linear models in analysis of association between specific genotypes and dynamic changes of gene expression of the fibroblasts in responding to silica stimulation, we identified that specific SNPs were associated with either single gene expression, or paired gene expression such as CTGF/SPARC and COL1A2/COL3A1, which suggest a strong biological correlation between these genes. Moreover, some SNPs and/or their corresponding genes were found to be associated with both SSc susceptibility and the fibrotic changes of human fibroblast in response to silica stimulation. These SSc susceptibility genes include not only previously identified ones, but also some novel ones, such as HLA-DPB1 and APBA1. These observations supported our original proposal that genetic elements within SSc fibroblasts might contribute to susceptibility to fibrotic process. Integrative studies of genetic and environmental factors with human fibroblasts may facilitate the discovery of potential pathogenesis of SSc. In this year, we will continuously obtain more human fibroblasts, especially SSc fibroblasts. We also will continuously perform stimulation assays of newly obtained human fibroblasts for a better chance to identify genetic components inside SSc patients contributing to susceptibility to environmental stimuli. Meanwhile, we will try to explore which specific bio-pathways associated with which specific genetic factors involved in silica induced fibrotic changes. Therefore, our studies are fulfilled with original proposal in the grant.
Language:
English

Title:
Optimization of the Temporal Pattern of Applied Radiation Dose: Implication for the Treatment of Prostate Cancer
Document ID:
20090038213
Report #:
AD-A506272
Available Online:
http://hdl.handle.net/100.2/ADA506272
Sales Agency:
Defense Technical Information Center (DTIC) No Copyright
Author(s):
Altman, Michael
Published:
20090301
Source:
Chicago Univ. (Chicago, IL United States)
Pages:
28
Contract #:
W81XWH-08-1-0189
Abstract:
Our previous modeling study demonstrated that the temporal pattern of applied dose during a single fraction of radiation can impact cell survival, especially in situations with low a/b and large dose/fx and fraction length (Tf). Two different arrangements of the same set of radiation fields were applied to low and high a/b cell lines at a high dose/fx and long Tf; a low a/b line was subjected to the same experiment at a low dose/fx, then a short Tf. Comparison of cell survival between both field arrangements agreed with the modeling study: statistically significant differences for the low a/b lines at high dose/fx and long Tf but not in any other case. To analyze temporal effects in vitro in a realistic treatment environment, a specialized phantom was characterized. Thermoluminescence dosimeters and film showed good agreement with dose predicted by a clinical treatment planning algorithm. A separate experiment showed good cellular response agreement with the phantom versus traditional experimental setups. These results show that the phantom is a useful tool to assess integration of temporal optimization into prostate cancer treatment planning, as these temporal optimization techniques could prove an important element in enhancing the efficacy of prostate cancer radiation therapy.
Language:
English

Title:
Ethnicity and Prostate Cancer: Vitamin D Genetic and Sociodemographic Factors
Document ID:
20090038220
Report #:
AD-A506293
Available Online:
http://hdl.handle.net/100.2/ADA506293
Sales Agency:
Defense Technical Information Center (DTIC) No Copyright
Author(s):
Torkko, Kathleen C
Published:
20090301
Source:
Colorado Univ. (Aurora, CO United States)
Pages:
46
Contract #:
W81XWH-07-1-0234
Abstract:
During the 2nd year of the grant, genotyping and sociodemographic survey development and distribution was started and is on-going. The sociodemographic survey was developed, tested, and approved by the local internal review board. Initial distribution of the survey was carried out in January 2009. A second mailing is currently underway. So far approximately 50% of men have responded. Men who have not responded to two mailings will be asked to complete the survey during their annual study visits to the clinic. Difficulties with the genotyping technology resulted in a delay in completing the planned genetic analysis. Problems are currently being solved and the genotyping should be completed by summer 2009 with additional potentially relevant polymorphisms being added. The grantee has taken two classes related to her work (Database Management Using SAS and Statistical Analysis for Microarray Technology) and taught a graduate level epidemiology class with a focus on health disparities in Spring 2008. She attended the Science of Health Disparities conference in Carefree, AZ, from February 3-6, 2009. She was also spoke about health disparities in prostate cancer screening at a company-sponsored event in Dallas, TX on February 21, 2009.
Language:
English

Title:
Disruption of the Circadian Rhythms of Gene Expression and the Development of Breast Cancer
Document ID:
20090038228
Report #:
AD-A506316
Available Online:
http://hdl.handle.net/100.2/ADA506316
Sales Agency:
Defense Technical Information Center (DTIC) No Copyright
Author(s):
Kennaway, David J
Published:
20090201
Source:
South Australian Health Commission (Adelaide, Australia)
Pages:
30
Contract #:
W81XWH-06-1-0265 BC050684
Abstract:
This project investigated the effects of rhythm disruption in mice on the expression of a wide range of genes in mammary tissue, the growth of MCF-7 xenografts and the growth, metastasis and gene expression in spontaneous mouse mammary tumors. Subjecting mice to a simulated shiftwork schedule altered the pattern and level of expression of clock gene transcription factors and genes that are involved in the cell cycle. We have also found that the formation of secondary lung tumors is enhanced by a simulated shiftwork protocol.
Language:
English

Title:
Detection of Tumor Suppressor Gene Mutations on 17p in DCIS
Document ID:
20090038254
Report #:
AD-A506387
Available Online:
http://hdl.handle.net/100.2/ADA506387
Sales Agency:
Defense Technical Information Center (DTIC) No Copyright
Author(s):
Hawthorn, Lesleyann
Published:
20080801
Source:
Health Research, Inc. (Buffalo, NY United States)
Pages:
9
Contract #:
W81XWH-06-1-0641
Abstract:
The most powerful indicator of the location of TSGs in sporadic breast tumors has come from LOH studies. The implication is that a recessive mutation in the gene is exposed because the normal gene has been lost. DCIS is considered a precursor lesion of infiltrating ductal carcinoma (IDC). LOH at 17p is a recurrent observation specific to grade III DCIS and Grade III IDC suggesting a role for these alterations in tumor progression. Since loss of 17p is categorically related to both high grade DCIS and high grade IDC this region more than likely harbors one or more tumor suppressor genes involved in the progression of DCIS to IDC. High-density oligonucleotide arrays offer the ability to sequence large numbers of loci in parallel using an automated approach. There are many examples where array-based sequencing has proved successful, however, most of these applications have used normal samples for the identification of SNPs in specific chromosomal regions. The CustomSeq Arrays enable the analysis of 300kb stranded sequence on a single array. This provides the most cost effective and efficient scheme to query large amounts of sequence in a single experiment. . Our plan is to use this technology to search for mutations at 17p13 in IDC cells that display loss of this region, suggesting the presence of mutated TSGs.
Language:
English

Title:
Genetic Dissection of the Role of Heparan Sulfate in Mammary Tumor Progression
Document ID:
20090038357
Report #:
AD-A506478
Sales Agency:
Defense Technical Information Center (DTIC) No Copyright
Author(s):
Yamaguchi, Yu
Published:
20090601
Source:
Burnham Inst. (La Jolla, CA United States)
Pages:
14
Contract #:
W81XWH-07-1-0461
Abstract:
There is accumulating evidence that heparan sulfate (HS) controls various growth factor signaling events. There is also evidence that cellular HS production itself exerts strong influences on tumorigenesis, exemplified by the fact that mutations of Ext1, the gene encoding an HS synthesizing enzyme, cause multiple bone tumors. Furthermore, the level of HS degrading activity correlates with the aggressiveness of the tumor. Despite these longstanding observations, much less is known about the mechanisms by which HS influences the malignant behavior of tumors in vivo. Also important is the fact that HS is produced not only by tumor cells themselves but also by stromal cells that constitute the tumor microenvironment. This project will address these key issues by using genetic mouse models. The second year of this project was dedicated to conduct tumorigenesis studies that form the core of the project. Preliminary results suggest that HS indeed affects the progression of mammary tumors. We will continue these experiments during the third year to obtain statistically significant survival data. Analysis of tumors formed in these mice will shed light on the molecular mechanisms by which HS regulates mammary tumor progression.
Language:
English

Title:
Targeting Breast Cancers Featuring Activating Mutations in PIK3CA by Generating a Lethal Dose of PIP3
Document ID:
20090038377
Report #:
AD-A506562
Sales Agency:
Defense Technical Information Center (DTIC) No Copyright
Author(s):
Zhao, Jean J
Published:
20090201
Source:
Dana Farber Cancer Inst. (Boston, MA United States)
Pages:
9
Contract #:
W81XWH-06-1-0341
Abstract:
The level of PIP3 is tightly regulated by the activities of two opposing enzymes, phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) and Phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN), acting as on/off switches. We hypothesized that PI3K activity is tolerated within a relatively narrow window in cells - too much of PIP3 is just as lethal as too little, thus PIK3CA/PTEN double mutants may elevate PIP3 to a lethal level. To test this hypothesis, we determined the effect of PTEN inactivation in human mammary epithelial cells carrying activated alleles of PIK3CA. We also generated a Tet-regulated transgenic mouse mammary tumor model expressing oncogenic PIK3CA and produced mammary tumor induced by mammary gland specific loss of PTEN. We are now ready to test our hypothesis in vivo with concurrent activation of PIK3CA and inactivation of PTEN.
Language:
English

Title:
Scientific Evaluation and Future Priorities of ESA's ELIPS Programme: Report from the Sasbachwalden Workshops, February 2008
Document ID:
20090038477
Report #:
PB2009-114641
Sales Agency:
National Technical Information Service (NTIS) No Copyright
Author(s):
(Author(s) Not Available)
Published:
20080901
Source:
European Space Agency (Paris, France)
Pages:
100
Contract #:
ESA-21477/08/NL/VJ
Abstract:
In May 2007 the ESA Directorate for Human Spaceflight, Microgravity and Exploration (D-HME) asked the ESF's European Space Sciences Committee (ESSC) to organize a broad scientific consultation of the users' community in the preparation of the next ESA Ministerial Council (November 2008), in order to evaluate the achievements and define future strategic and scientific priorities of ESA's programme in life and physical sciences in space (ELIPS). This exercise would constitute the follow-on of the assessment studies done at the Bischenberg, Obernai and Evian workshops, which the ESF and ESSC organised in 2000 and 2004/05 to structure and assess the value of ESA's ELIPS programme. The evaluation would look at: the achievements of the ELIPS programme between 2004 and 2007; the expectations and requirements of the users' community with regard to its future and in particular the validity of the Cornerstone scheme which was updated in 2005; and the scientific perspectives of the Exploration programme which are relevant to the ELIPS programme. A Steering Committee, comprising scientists in life and physical sciences, was therefore formally established in October 2007 and met in Brussels on 16 January 2008 to define the format of the evaluation workshop and agree on the scientists to be invited to this workshop. ESA's ELIPS research plan is split in two main categories: life sciences and physical sciences. The workshop itself was thus also split in two parts, taking place consecutively during the same week, with two 2-day periods dealing separately with physical sciences and with life sciences. Both disciplinary workshops gathered some 80 persons each. A synthesis meeting consisting of the rapporteurs of the various sessions of the two workshops plus a limited number of selected observers then met on 14 April 2008 to finalise and approve the contents of the evaluation report. Following ESF and ESSC rules the report was then independently peer-reviewed. This is the final report to ESA, European national space agencies and the space science community.
Language:
English
Notes:
Sponsored by European Science Foundation, Strasbourg (France). Space Science Committee.

Title:
Assessment of the Performance of Iodine-Treated Biocidal Filters and Characterization of Virus Aerosols
Document ID:
20090038647
Report #:
AD-A506283
Available Online:
http://hdl.handle.net/100.2/ADA506283
Sales Agency:
Defense Technical Information Center (DTIC) No Copyright
Author(s):
Lee, Jin-Hwa (Florida Univ.)
Published:
20090701
Source:
Florida Univ. (Gainesville, FL United States)
Pages:
142
Contract #:
FA8650-06-C-5913
Abstract:
Enhanced awareness of the threat of biological warfare and the spread of airborne pathogens has stimulated interest in bioaerosols and the need to develop better methods for respiratory protection. Among pathogens, viruses and bacterial spores are of special concern because they exhibit resistance to inactivation, small (highly penetrating) particle size and low median infectious dose. This study compared the mechanical and total viable removal by a relatively inefficient (N50) iodine-treated biocidal filter challenged with aerosols of Bacillus subtilis spores and MS2 bacteriophage as surrogates for human pathogenic biological agents. The fate of viral aerosols influenced by environmental conditions and the spray medium were investigated by assessing infectious and total MS2 penetrating as a function of particle size, by comparing data from bioassay and polymerase chain reaction. The iodine-treated electret filter has an viable removal efficiency for bacterial spores with a negligible pressure drop in various environmental conditions. Because of strong retention of bioparticles on the electret medium, inactivation of the collected spores is only slightly enhanced by the presence of the iodinated resin. In the viral aerosol experiment, the iodine-treated filter also showed high biocidal performance. Both and induced capture of iodine by viral aerosols traversing the filter and dissociation of free I(sub 2) are mechanisms consistent with the inactivation by I(sub2) observed under our experimental conditions, which included a 3-ppm background concentration of I(sub2) in the liquid impingers used for particle collection. Impinger studies using bovine serum albumin as a competitor for I(sub2) and of thiosulfate as an I(sub2) quench showed that the inactivation process is not immediate and that at least half of the iodine acting as a disinfectant was captured by bioaerosols as they penetrated the filter medium.
Language:
English

Title:
International Space Station USOS Potable Water Dispenser On-Orbit Functionality vs Design
Document ID:
20090038742
Report #:
JSC-CN-19125
Available Online:
http://hdl.handle.net/2060/20090038742
Sales Agency:
CASI Hardcopy A01 Copyright
Author(s):
Toon, Katherine P. (NASA Johnson Space Center) Lovell, Randal W. (Jacobs Technologies Engineering Science Contract Group)
Published:
20090101
Source:
NASA Johnson Space Center (Houston, TX, United States)
Pages:
2
Contract #:
None
Abstract:
The International Space Station (ISS) currently provides potable water dispensing for rehydrating crewmembers food and drinking packages with one system located in the United States On-orbit Segment (USOS) and one system in the Russian Segment. The USOS Potable Water Dispenser (PWD) was delivered to ISS on ULF2, Shuttle Mission STS-126, and was subsequently activated in November 2008. The PWD activation on ISS is capable of supporting an ISS crew of six but nominally supplies only half the crew. The PWD is designed to provide incremental quantities of hot and ambient temperature potable water to US style food packages. PWD receives iodinated water from the US Laboratory Fuel Cell Water Bus, which is fed from the Water Processing Assembly (WPA). The PWD removes the biocidal iodine to make the water potable prior to dispensing. A heater assembly contained within the unit supplies up to 2.0 liters of hot water (65 to 93oC) every thirty minutes. This quantity supports three to four crewmembers to rehydrate their food and beverages from this location during a single meal. The unit is designed to remain functional for up to ten years with replacement of limited life items such as filters. To date, the PWD on-orbit performance has been acceptable. Since activation of the PWD, there have been several differences between on-orbit functionality and expected performance of hardware design. The comparison of on-orbit functionality to performance of hardware design is outlined for the following key areas: microbiology, PWD to food package water leakage, no-dispense scenarios, under-dispense scenarios, and crewmember feedback on actual on-orbit use.
Language:
English
Notes:
International Conference on Environmental Systems Barcelona 11-15 Jul. 2010

51-02 BIOCHEMISTRY
Nov 22, 2009 -- Additions to the NASA scientific and technical information knowledge base

No records are available for this topic on this date.

52-01 AEROSPACE MEDICINE
Nov 22, 2009 -- Additions to the NASA scientific and technical information knowledge base

Title:
Effectiveness of Cognitive Exposure, and Skills Group Manualized Treatments in OIF/OEF Female Veterans
Document ID:
20090038239
Report #:
AD-A506341
Available Online:
http://hdl.handle.net/100.2/ADA506341
Sales Agency:
Defense Technical Information Center (DTIC) No Copyright
Author(s):
Castillo, Diane T
Published:
20090401
Source:
Lovelace Biomedical and Environmental Research Inst. (Albuquerque, NM United States)
Pages:
27
Contract #:
W81XWH-08-2-0022
Abstract:
The subject and purpose of the study are to evaluate and establish the effectiveness of three behavioral treatments--exposure, cognitive, and skills (assertiveness/relaxation) therapies--provided in a group format. Data began in February 2009, the last two months of the first annual reporting period. Therefore, the data have not yet been analyzed and there are no statistical results. The summary of the most significant findings of the study's progress are that the study has received IRB approvals, staff have been hired and trained, and study subject enrollment has begun.
Language:
English

Title:
A Simple and Valid Method to Determine Thermoregulatory Sweating Threshold and Sensitivity
Document ID:
20090038368
Report #:
AD-A506523, USAMRIEM-M09-27
Sales Agency:
Defense Technical Information Center (DTIC) No Copyright
Author(s):
Cheuvront, Samuel N Bearden, Shawn E Kenefick, Robert W Ely, Brett R DeGroot, David W Sawka, Michael N Montain, Scott J
Published:
20090101
Source:
Army Research Inst. of Environmental Medicine (Natick, MA United States)
Pages:
9
Contract #:
None
Abstract:
Sweating threshold temperature and sweating sensitivity responses are measured to evaluate thermoregulatory control. However, analytic approaches vary, and no standardized methodology has been validated. This study validated a simple and standardized method, segmented linear regression (SReg), for determination of sweating threshold temperature and sensitivity. Archived data were extracted for analysis from studies in which local arm sweat rate (m'sw; ventilated dew-point temperature sensor) and esophageal temperature (Tes) were measured under a variety of conditions. The relationship m'sw/Tes from 16 experiments was analyzed by seven experienced raters (Rater), using a variety of empirical methods, and compared against SReg for the determination of sweating threshold temperature and sweating sensitivity values. Individual interrater differences (n=324 comparisons) and differences between Rater and SReg (n=110 comparisons) were evaluated within the context of biologically important limits of magnitude (LOM) via a modified Bland-Altman approach. The average Rater and SReg outputs for threshold temperature and sensitivity were compared (n=16) using inferential statistics.
Language:
English
Notes:
Published in Journal Applied Physiology, v107 p69-75, 2009

Title:
Expanded Prediction Equations of Human Sweat Loss and Water Needs
Document ID:
20090038369
Report #:
AD-A506525, USARIEM-M09-20
Sales Agency:
Defense Technical Information Center (DTIC) No Copyright
Author(s):
Gonzalez, R R Cheuvront, S N Montain, S J Goodman, D A Blanchard, L A Berglund, L G Sawka, M N
Published:
20090101
Source:
Army Research Inst. of Environmental Medicine (Natick, MA United States)
Pages:
11
Contract #:
None
Abstract:
The Institute of Medicine expressed a need for improved sweating rate (m'sw) prediction models that calculate hourly and daily water needs based on metabolic rate, clothing, and environment. More than 25 years ago, the original Shapiro prediction equation (OSE) was formulated as m'sw (g*m-2*h-11) +27.9 Ereq*(Emax-)0.455, where Ereq is required evaporative heat loss and Emax is maximum evaporative power of the environment; OSE was developed for a limited set of environments, exposures times, and clothing systems. Recent evidence shows that OSE often overpredicts fluid needs. Our study developed a corrected OSE and a new m'sw prediction equation by using independent data sets from a wide range of environmental conditions, metabolic rates (rest to 450 W/m2), and variable exercise durations. Whole body sweat losses were carefully measured in 101 volunteers (80 males and 21 females; 500 observations) by using a variety of metabolic rates over a range of environmental conditions (ambient temperature, 15-46 deg C; water vapor pressure, 0.27-4.45 kPa; wind speed, 0.4-2.5 m/s), clothing, and equipment combinations and durations (2-8 h). Data are expressed as grams per square meter per hour and were analyzed using fuzzy piecewise regression.
Language:
English
Notes:
Published in Journal of Applied Physiology, v107 p379-388, 2009

Title:
Right Ventricular Tissue Doppler in Space Flight
Document ID:
20090038607
Report #:
JSC-CN-19030
Available Online:
http://hdl.handle.net/2060/20090038607
Sales Agency:
CASI Hardcopy A01 Copyright
Author(s):
Hamilton, Douglas R. (Wyle Labs., Inc.) Barratt, Michael R. (NASA Johnson Space Center) Sargsyan, Ashot E. (Wyle Labs., Inc.) Ebert, Douglas (Wyle Labs., Inc.) Garcia, Kathleen M. (Wyle Labs., Inc.) Martin, David S. (Wyle Labs., Inc.) Dulchavsky, Scott A. (Ford (Henry) Hospital) Duncan, J. Michael (NASA Johnson Space Center)
Published:
20090101
Source:
NASA Johnson Space Center (Houston, TX, United States)
Pages:
1
Contract #:
None
Abstract:
Tissue Doppler (TD) registers movement of a given sample of cardiac tissue throughout the cardiac cycle. TD spectra of the right ventricle (RV) were obtained from a long-duration ISS crewmember as a portion of an ongoing experiment ("Braslet" test objective). To our knowledge, this is the first report of RV TD conducted in space flight, and the data represent reproducibility and fidelity of this application in space and serve as the first "space normal" data set. Methods RV TD was performed by astronaut scientists remotely guided by an ultrasound expert from Mission Control Center, Houston, TX. In four of the subjects, RV TD was acquired from the free wall near the tricuspid annulus in two separate sessions 4 to 7 days apart. A fifth subject had only one session. All digital DICOM frames were exported for off-line analysis. Systolic (S ), early diastolic (E ) and late diastolic (A ) velocities were measured. RV Tei-index was calculated using diastolic and systolic time intervals as a combined measure of myocardial performance. Results and Discussion The mean values from the first 4 subjects (8 sessions) were used as the on-orbit reference data, and subject 5 was considered as a hypothetical patient for comparison (see Table). The greatest difference was in the early diastolic A (31 %) yet the standard deviation (a) for A amongst the reference subjects was 2.25 (mean = 16.02). Of interest is the Tei index, a simple and feasible indicator of overall ventricular function; it was similar amongst all the subjects. The late diastolic A seems to compensate for the variance in E . Normal Tei index for the RV is < 0.3, yet our data show all but one subject consistently above this level, notwithstanding their nominal responses to daily exercise in microgravity. These data remind us that the physiology of RV preload in altered gravity environments is still not completely understood.
Language:
English
Notes:
Aerospace Medicine Association Annual Meeting Phoenix, AZ 9-13 May 2010

Title:
An Experiment to Evaluate Transfer of Upset-Recovery Training Conducted Using Two Different Flight Simulation Devices
Document ID:
20090038697
Report #:
DOT/FAA/AM-09/17
Sales Agency:
CASI Hardcopy A03 Copyright
Author(s):
Leland, R. (Environmental Tectonics Corp.) Rogers, R. O. (Embry-Riddle Aeronautical Univ.) Boquet, A. (Embry-Riddle Aeronautical Univ.) Glaser, S. (Environmental Tectonics Corp.)
Published:
20090901
Source:
Environmental Tectonics Corp. (Southampton, PA, United States) Embry-Riddle Aeronautical Univ. (Daytona Beach, FL, United States)
Pages:
19
Contract #:
None
Abstract:
Air transport training programs provide simulator-based upset-recovery instruction for company pilots. However, no prior research demonstrates that such training transfers to an airplane in flight. We report on an FAA-funded research experiment to evaluate upset-recovery training transfer. Two groups of participants were given simulator-based training in upset-recovery, one in a high-end centrifuge-based device, the other using Microsoft Flight Simulator running on desktop computers. A third control group received no upset-recovery training at all. All three groups were then subjected to serious in-flight upsets in an aerobatic airplane. Pilots from both trained groups significantly outperformed control group pilots in upset-recovery maneuvering. However, performance differences between pilots from the two trained groups were less distinct. Moreover, pilot performance in both trained groups fell well short of the performance exhibited by pilots experienced in all attitude flight. Although we conducted flight testing in a general aviation airplane, our research has important implications for heavy aircraft upset-recovery trainers.
Language:
English

Title:
NASA Johnson Space Center Medical Licensing Opportunities
Document ID:
20090038703
Report #:
JSC-CN-19163
Available Online:
http://hdl.handle.net/2060/20090038703
Sales Agency:
CASI Hardcopy A03 No Copyright
Author(s):
Hernandez-Moya, Sonia (NASA Johnson Space Center)
Published:
20090101
Source:
NASA Johnson Space Center (Houston, TX, United States)
Pages:
33
Contract #:
None
Abstract:
This presentation reviews patented medical items that are available for licensing in the areas of Laboratory Technologies, Medical Devices, Medical Equipment and other technologies that are of interest to the medical community.
Language:
English
Notes:
MicroMed Presentation FROM 9 Nov. 2009

Title:
Microwave Treatment for Cardiac Arrhythmias
Document ID:
20090038725
Report #:
JSC-CN-19165
Available Online:
http://hdl.handle.net/2060/20090038725
Sales Agency:
CASI Hardcopy A01 No Copyright
Author(s):
Hernandez-Moya, Sonia (NASA Johnson Space Center)
Published:
20090101
Source:
NASA Johnson Space Center (Houston, TX, United States)
Pages:
5
Contract #:
None
Abstract:
NASA seeks to transfer the NASA developed microwave ablation technology, designed for the treatment of ventricular tachycardia (irregular heart beat), to industry. After a heart attack, many cells surrounding the resulting scar continue to live but are abnormal electrically; they may conduct impulses unusually slowly or fire when they would typically be silent. These diseased areas might disturb smooth signaling by forming a reentrant circuit in the muscle. The objective of microwave ablation is to heat and kill these diseased cells to restore appropriate electrical activity in the heart. This technology is a method and apparatus that provides for propagating microwave energy into heart tissues to produce a desired temperature profile therein at tissue depths sufficient for thermally ablating arrhythmogenic cardiac tissue while preventing excessive heating of surrounding tissues, organs, and blood. A wide bandwidth double-disk antenna is effective for this purpose over a bandwidth of about six gigahertz. A computer simulation provides initial screening capabilities for an antenna such as antenna, frequency, power level, and power application duration. The simulation also allows optimization of techniques for specific patients or conditions. In comparison with other methods that involve direct-current pulses or radio frequencies below 1 GHz, this method may prove more effective in treating ventricular tachycardia. This is because the present method provides for greater control of the location, cross-sectional area, and depth of a lesion via selection of the location and design of the antenna and the choice of microwave power and frequency.
Language:
English
Notes:
Texas Life Science Conference Houston, TX 12-13 Nov. 2009

Title:
Effect of Pharmacologically-Induced Hypovolemia on Aerobic Capacity
Document ID:
20090038744
Report #:
JSC-CN-19127
Sales Agency:
Other Sources Copyright
Author(s):
Everett, Meghan E. (Houston Univ.) Lee, S. M. C. (Wyle Integrated Science and Engineering Group) Platts, S. H. (NASA Johnson Space Center)
Published:
20090101
Source:
NASA Johnson Space Center (Houston, TX, United States)
Pages:
1
Contract #:
None
Abstract:
Decreased peak oxygen consumption (VO2pk) and an elevated exercise heart rate (HR) response are associated with a reduction in plasma volume (PV) after space flight and bed rest, a space flight analog. Reduced VO2pk and submaximal exercise tolerance would negatively impact an astronaut s ability to perform near maximal work that would be required in the event of an emergency. We previously have administered IV furosemide followed by a low salt diet to model PV loss and orthostatic intolerance observed after spaceflight. Purpose: To determine whether a pharmacologically-induced reduction in PV results in decreased VO2pk and elevated exercise HR response. Methods: Six subjects (5M, 1F) performed two graded peak cycle tests (work rate increased by 35 or 50 W every 3 min), once while normovolemic and once while hypovolemic. HR and expired respiratory gases were continuously measured. To induce hypovolemia, subjects were administered a single dose of IV furosemide (0.5 mg.kg-1) 30 hr before exercise testing and then consumed a low-salt diet (10 mEq.d(sup -1)). PV was measured using carbon monoxide rebreathing. Exercise HR and VO2 responses were quantified as the area under the curve (AUC) calculated over each quartile of the peak test, based on test time in the hypovolemia condition. Paired t-tests were used to test for differences in PV, VO2pk, and peak HR between conditions. Repeated-measures ANOVAs were used to test for differences in AUC between conditions. Results: PV (3.32+/-0.12 vs. 2.77+/-0.16 L, p<0.05) and VO2pk (3.30+/-0.67 vs. 2.90+/-0.57 L.min(sup -1), p<0.05) were lower during hypovolemia than during normovolemia, but peak HR was not different (187+/-5 vs. 187+/-5 bpm). The AUC for VO2 and HR was different (p<0.05) between conditions only in the highest quartile: HR was 4% higher and VO2 was 5% lower during the hypovolemia condition. Conclusion: The mean difference in VO2pk (-12%) between normovolemia and hypovolemia was similar to the mean difference in PV (-17%). Similar decreases in PV and VO2pk have been observed following short duration space flight, suggesting that pharmacologically-induced PV loss can be used to model microgravity-induced reductions in VO2pk.
Language:
English
Notes:
American College of Sports Medicine Baltimore, MD 2-5 Jun. 2010

Title:
Spaceflight Sensorimotor Analogs: Simulating Acute and Adaptive Effects
Document ID:
20090038747
Report #:
JSC-CN-19134
Sales Agency:
Other Sources Copyright
Author(s):
Taylor, Laura C. (Wyle Labs., Inc.) Harm, Deborah L. (NASA Johnson Space Center) Kozlovskaya, Inessa (Academy of Sciences (Russia)) Reschke, Millard F. (NASA Johnson Space Center) Wood, Scott J. (Universities Space Research Association)
Published:
20090101
Source:
NASA Johnson Space Center (Houston, TX, United States)
Pages:
1
Contract #:
None
Abstract:
Adaptive changes in sensorimotor function during spaceflight are reflected by spatial disorientation, motion sickness, gaze destabilization and decrements in balance, locomotion and eye-hand coordination that occur during and following transitions between different gravitational states. The purpose of this study was to conduct a meta-synthesis of data from spaceflight analogs to evaluate their effectiveness in simulating adaptive changes in sensorimotor function. METHODS. The analogs under review were categorized as either acute analogs used to simulate performance decrements accompanied with transient changes, or adaptive analogs used to drive sensorimotor learning to altered sensory feedback. The effectiveness of each analog was evaluated in terms of mechanisms of action, magnitude and time course of observed deficits compared to spaceflight data, and the effects of amplitude and exposure duration. RESULTS. Parabolic flight has been used extensively to examine effects of acute variation in gravitational loads, ranging from hypergravity to microgravity. More recently, galvanic vestibular stimulation has been used to elicit acute postural, locomotor and gaze dysfunction by disrupting vestibular afferents. Patient populations, e.g., with bilateral vestibular loss or cerebellar dysfunction, have been proposed to model acute sensorimotor dysfunction. Early research sponsored by NASA involved living onboard rotating rooms, which appeared to approximate the time course of adaptation and post-exposure recovery observed in astronauts following spaceflight. Exposure to different bed-rest paradigms (6 deg head down, dry immersion) result in similar motor deficits to that observed following spaceflight. Shorter adaptive analogs have incorporated virtual reality environments, visual distortion paradigms, exposure to conflicting tilt-translation cues, and exposure to 3Gx centrifugation. As with spaceflight, there is considerable variability in responses to most of the analogs reviewed. DISCUSSION. A true ground-based flight analog for sensorimotor function is not feasible. A combination of flight analogs; however, can be used to selectively mimic different aspects of the spaceflight-induced sensorimotor performance decrements.
Language:
English
Notes:
81st Annual Scientific Aerospace Medical Association Meeting Phoenix, Az 9-13 May 2010

Title:
International Space Station Urine Monitoring System Functional Integration and Science Testing
Document ID:
20090038748
Report #:
JSC-CN-19172
Sales Agency:
Other Sources Copyright
Author(s):
Cibuzar, Branelle R. (NASA Johnson Space Center) Broyan, James Lee, Jr. (NASA Johnson Space Center)
Published:
20090101
Source:
NASA Johnson Space Center (Houston, TX, United States)
Pages:
1
Contract #:
None
Abstract:
Exposure to microgravity during human spaceflight is required to be defined and understood as the human exploration of space requires longer duration missions. It is known that long term exposure to microgravity causes bone loss. Urine voids are capable of measuring the calcium and other metabolic byproducts in a constituent s urine. The International Space Station (ISS) Urine Monitoring System (UMS) is an automated urine collection device designed to collect urine, separate the urine and air, measure the void volume, and allow for syringe sampling. Accurate measuring and minimal cross contamination is essential to determine bone loss and the effectiveness of countermeasures. The ISS UMS provides minimal cross contamination (<0.7 ml urine) and has volume accuracy of +/-2% between 100 to 1000 ml urine voids.
Language:
English
Notes:
International Conference on Environmental Systems Barcelona 11-15 Jul. 2010

52-02 CLINICAL MEDICINE
Nov 22, 2009 -- Additions to the NASA scientific and technical information knowledge base

Title:
Enhancing the Efficacy of Chemotherapeutic Breast Cancer Treatment with Nonanticoagulant Heparins
Document ID:
20090038211
Report #:
AD-A506269
Available Online:
http://hdl.handle.net/100.2/ADA506269
Sales Agency:
Defense Technical Information Center (DTIC) No Copyright
Author(s):
Mousa, Shaker A Phillips, Patricia G
Published:
20090514
Source:
Albany Coll. of Pharmacy (Albany, NY United States)
Pages:
15
Contract #:
W81XWH-07-1-0344
Abstract:
Studies with mice bearing MCF7-WT xenografts demonstrate that encapsulation of Dox, whether in targeted or non-targeted PLGA nanoparticles, improved anti-tumor efficacy in comparison to un-encapsulated Dox. In animals bearing MCF7-R (Dox-resistant) tumors, administration of Dox encapsulated in alphavbeta-targeted nanoparticles or of Dox with nonanticoagulant heparin (NACH) are potent strategies for overcoming Dox resistance in animals bearing these aggressive human breast tumors. HPLC analyses of tumors and tissues from animals bearing MCF7-R tumors clearly demonstrate that LMWH or NACH increase the uptake of Dox into tumors but not other tissues at 3 and 24 hrs, at least double the amount observed with Dox alone. This is a highly significant result in the light of the fact that the FDA criterion for a clinically meaningful effect is a 15% increase in chemotherapeutic uptake. In vitro studies to investigate possible mechanisms associated with LMWH improvement of Dox anti-tumor activity focused on cell migration, proliferation and viability. LMWH compounds did not substantially affect these parameters in vitro. It is likely that increasing chemotherapeutic uptake in vivo as demonstrated in HPLC studies represents one important mechanism of improved anti-tumor efficacy associated with co-administration of LMWH and Dox.
Language:
English

Title:
The Dilemma Over Medical Command and Control
Document ID:
20090038214
Report #:
AD-A506273
Available Online:
http://hdl.handle.net/100.2/ADA506273
Sales Agency:
Defense Technical Information Center (DTIC) No Copyright
Author(s):
Sepanic, Jason R
Published:
20080613
Source:
Army Command and General Staff Coll. (Fort Leavenworth, KS United States)
Pages:
60
Contract #:
None
Abstract:
The command surgeon presents a dilemma to the line and staff model in that the command surgeon actually performs line and staff functions. An attempt to solve this dilemma is playing out in Army Transformation as the Army and the Army Medical Department (AMEDD) leadership struggle with how to flatten medical command and control structures. The AMEDD maintains that it needs four regionally focused medical commands, in the form of a Medical Command (Deployment Support) [MEDCOM(DS)], at the Army Service Component Command (ASCC) level. At this same level, each regionally focused ASCC commander has a command surgeon with a staff section that appears to serve the same function as the medical command. The question that needs to be answered is, is there a difference between the ASCC Command Surgeon's Division and the MEDCOM(DS)?
Language:
English

Title:
Real-Time Tracking of Implanted Markers During Radiation Treatment by Use of Simultaneous kV and MV Imaging
Document ID:
20090038215
Report #:
AD-A506274
Available Online:
http://hdl.handle.net/100.2/ADA506274
Sales Agency:
Defense Technical Information Center (DTIC) No Copyright
Author(s):
Wiersma, Rodney D
Published:
20090301
Source:
Stanford Univ. (Stanford, CA United States)
Pages:
70
Contract #:
W81XWH-08-1-0128
Abstract:
In the presence of organ motion, geometric target uncertainty can hamper the benefits of highly conformal dose techniques such as IMRT. A critical step in dealing with intra-fraction prostate tumor motion is the real-time monitoring of the tumor position. The aim of this investigation is the first time demonstration of a real-time 3D internal fiducial tracking system based on onboard kV diagnostic imaging together with a MV electronic portal-imaging device (EPID). A Varian radiotherapy system equipped with both kV and MV imaging systems was used in this work. An in house built marker detection tool using prior CT based knowledge was created to locate gold cylindrical markers in the kV/MV frames. The geometric tracking capabilities of the system were evaluated using a pelvic phantom with embedded fiducials placed on a 3D moveable stage to mimic actual prostate motion. The maximum 3D tracking speed of the kV-MV system is approximately 9 Hz. The geometric accuracy of the system is found to be on the order of less than 1 mm in all three spatial dimensions. This investigation has demonstrated the use of a real-time 3D fiducial tracking system using combined kV and MV imaging for the first time.
Language:
English

Title:
Development of Meharry Medical College Prostate Cancer Research Program
Document ID:
20090038225
Report #:
AD-A506313
Available Online:
http://hdl.handle.net/100.2/ADA506313
Sales Agency:
Defense Technical Information Center (DTIC) No Copyright
Author(s):
Ukoli, Flora A
Published:
20090301
Source:
Meharry Medical Coll. (Nashville, TN United States)
Pages:
21
Contract #:
W81XWH-05-1-0229
Abstract:
There is substantial urology, oncology, epidemiology, nutrition and other expertise at Meharry and Vanderbilt addressing issues related to prostate cancer (PCa) disparity among African-American (AA) men, and the six program new/junior minority investigators have maintained partnerships with VU mentors, and established viable community network ties. Dr. Ukoli has recruited 105 participants into the lycopene study, sent 192 stored plasma samples for lycopene analysis, and received a DHHS 2-year funding for prostate cancer education intervention among low-income AAs. Dr. Washington recruited 200 participants into the PCa health care seeking behavior study, is now analyzing the data, and preparing a full grant proposal. Dr. Stewart completed her pilot project, received independent funding to continue her PCa cell line studies, two of her students received pre-doctoral awards, and will apply for a CTSA grant for DNA extraction/genotyping to investigate genetic polymorphisms in PCa risk using 300 AA and Nigerians samples storedby Dr. Ukoli. Dr. Ogunkua's work continues to grow; he has now dosed/sacrificed 60 mice recording data at all time-points, and submitted one R21. Dr. Taher is revising his DOD career development grant that scored 2.5, presented two posters, and currently working on a manuscript with the PI.
Language:
English

Title:
MicroRNAs in Prostate Cancer
Document ID:
20090038226
Report #:
AD-A506314
Available Online:
http://hdl.handle.net/100.2/ADA506314
Sales Agency:
Defense Technical Information Center (DTIC) No Copyright
Author(s):
Dutta, Anindya
Published:
20081101
Source:
Virginia Univ. (Charlottesville, VA United States)
Pages:
175
Contract #:
W81XWH-06-1-0048
Abstract:
A systematic comparison of the short RNA universe of two prostate cancer cell lines was performed by cloning and deep sequencing to identify microRNAs whose expression may correlate with androgen dependence/independence or microRNAs that are regulated by androgens. The results were confirmed by microarrays and by quantitative reverse transcription and polymerase chain reaction. We have identified five microRNAs that are repressed and three that are induced during progression of prostate cancer from androgen dependent, early stage to androgen independent advanced stage. We have also identified four microRNAs that are repressed by androgens in the androgen dependent cells. The progression-repressed microRNAs render the advanced cancer cells unable to grow in charcoal-stripped androgen depleted serum. We have also identified several non-micro-short RNAs that are expressed abundantly in prostate cancer cells and provide evidence that one of them, tRF-1001, is necessary for cell proliferation.
Language:
English

Title:
Skeletal Complications in Neurofibromatosis Type 1: the Role of Neurofibromin Haploinsufficiency in Defective Skeletal Remodeling and Bone Healing in NF1
Document ID:
20090038227
Report #:
AD-A506315
Available Online:
http://hdl.handle.net/100.2/ADA506315
Sales Agency:
Defense Technical Information Center (DTIC) No Copyright
Author(s):
McHugh, Kevin P
Published:
20090101
Source:
Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (Boston, MA United States)
Pages:
20
Contract #:
W81XWH-06-1-0219
Abstract:
A large proportion of patients with Neurofibromatosis Type 1 display skeletal abnormalities including scoliosis and pseudoarthrosis, which are compounded by osteoporosis and poor bone healing. Corrective orthopaedic intervention often fails, necessitating multiple revision surgeries followed by prolonged recovery periods. The cell types and pathway by which neurofibromin haploinsufficiency (Nf1 +/-) leads to dysregulation of bone remodeling and healing are unknown. The aim of this study is to identify the cell types expressing Nf1 in normal bone cell physiology and fracture healing and to test the Nf1 requirement in vitro. We have employed in vitro and in vivo models to test the effects of neurofibromin deficiency in bone-forming osteoblasts and in bone-resorbing osteoblast cells. In addition, we have established a collection of bone tissue samples from NF1 patients to characterize the bone, tissue, and cells of NF1 bone.
Language:
English

Title:
Mammary Gland Tumor Development in Transgenic Mice Overexpressing Different Isoforms of the CDP/Cux Transcription Factor
Document ID:
20090038229
Report #:
AD-A506317
Available Online:
http://hdl.handle.net/100.2/ADA506317
Sales Agency:
Defense Technical Information Center (DTIC) No Copyright
Author(s):
Cadieux, Chantal
Published:
20090301
Source:
Lady David Inst. (Montreal, Quebec Canada)
Pages:
25
Contract #:
W81XWH-06-1-0294
Abstract:
Short CUX1 isoforms were found to be overexpressed in breast cancer cell lines, in human breast tumors and in uterine leiomyomas, suggesting that these proteins play a key role in tumor development and progression. My project consisted in analyzing the effect of these CUX1 isoforms on mammary gland development and tumorigenesis. Also, I worked on the identification of targets of CUX1 mediating its oncogenic properties. So far, I have shown that overexpressing short CDP/Cux isoforms leads to abnormal development of the mammary gland. Furthermore, overexpressing p75, p110 or p200 CDP/Cux leads to the development of mammary gland tumors in mice. These tumors seem to be of basal origin, suggesting that CUX1 promotes tumorigenesis in a precursor cell. Breast tumor patients with similar types of disease have very low chances of survival, since no specific treatment is currently available for them. Thus, my research project will enable us to gain a better understanding of the biological functions of each CUX1 isoform in mammary gland development and tumorigenesis, which could possibly lead to new therapeutic targets for the treatment of basal breast cancers.
Language:
English

Title:
Prairie View A&M/Baylor College of Medicine SMART Summer Undergraduate Prostate Cancer Research Project
Document ID:
20090038230
Report #:
AD-A506318
Available Online:
http://hdl.handle.net/100.2/ADA506318
Sales Agency:
Defense Technical Information Center (DTIC) No Copyright
Author(s):
Weigel, Nancy L Slaughter, B G
Published:
20090401
Source:
Baylor Coll. of Medicine (Houston, TX United States)
Pages:
8
Contract #:
W81XWH-06-1-0391
Abstract:
The goal of this project is to encourage undergraduates to enter careers in prostate cancer research. This project involves BCM faculty presentations at Prairie View A & M University and a 9 week summer prostate cancer research experience at BCM for up to 5 undergraduates/year from PVAMU (3 in 2006; 4 in 2007 and 2008). Participants attended a weekly research discussion group focused on prostate cancer. Students make PowerPoint presentations on their work at the end of the program. The participants are co-registered in the SMART Program at Baylor College of Medicine (www.bcm.tmc.edu/smart) and have access to elements of the SMART Program including a interdisciplinary seminar series, career development activities and career counseling and the SMART GRE Prep Course. All of the four students in the 2008 program gained laboratory skills and learned more about biomedical research, especially prostate cancer research. Students made a total of 12 research presentations (two at national meetings). One student's work provided evidence that CD14+monocytes differentiate to myofibroblast reactive stroma that correlates with prostate cancer. One student won a 1st place research award for her study that identified peptides that might become good antigens for creating a prostate tumor vaccine.
Language:
English

Title:
Molecular Basis of Autophagic Cell Death in Prostate Cancer
Document ID:
20090038231
Report #:
AD-A506319
Available Online:
http://hdl.handle.net/100.2/ADA506319
Sales Agency:
Defense Technical Information Center (DTIC) No Copyright
Author(s):
Kaini, Ramesh
Published:
20090301
Source:
New Mexico Univ. (Albuquerque, NM United States)
Pages:
28
Contract #:
W81XWH-08-1-0183 00264242
Abstract:
To understand the molecular basis of autophagy in prostate cancer, I am trying to isolate pure autophagosomes from autophagic cell survival and autophagic cell death Prostate cancer cell model and profile proteins and lipids to identify autophagy abundant/specific proteins and lipid molecule that are essential for functional autophagy in prostate cancer. I established EGFP.LC3 stably expressing LNCaP cell line and characterized the autophagic activity by western blot, translocation assay and Atg5 siRNA transfection. I also confirmed the autophagic activity in PC3.EGFP.LC3 cells. I was able to enrich autophagosomes using gradient ultracentrifugation and currently trying to optimize the condition for further purification by Immunopurification using beads.
Language:
English

Title:
Determinants of Weight Gain in Women with Early-Stage Breast Cancer
Document ID:
20090038232
Report #:
AD-A506320
Available Online:
http://hdl.handle.net/100.2/ADA506320
Sales Agency:
Defense Technical Information Center (DTIC) No Copyright
Author(s):
Hong, Chi-Chen Ambrosone, Christine Bovbjerg, Dana H Cowell, John Edge, Stephen McCann, Susan Kulkarni, Swati O'Connor, Tracey Yu, Jihnhee
Published:
20090401
Source:
Health Research, Inc. (Buffalo, NY United States)
Pages:
15
Contract #:
W81XWH-06-1-0401
Abstract:
Weight gain after breast cancer diagnosis is common, and has been associated with poorer prognosis. The goals of the study are to examine weight gain relation to treatment-related changes in sex hormone levels, and in relation to genetic polymorphisms in sex hormone pathways, accounting for potential interactions with energy balance, psychosocial factors, tumor characteristics, cancer treatment, and medication use. A prospective longitudinal study of weight gain is being conducted in 215 stage I to IIIA breast cancer patients. To date (3/17/09), 333 participants have been enrolled. To date, 220 out of a possible 266 women have had their 6 months followup visit (82.7%) with 46 (17%) withdrawals. A total of 211 women have been eligible for a 12 month followup, although of this 43 (20%) women have withdrawn, leaving 168 active participants. All of our data has been double entered by two different research associates. We are now currently in the process of data cleaning and are comparing and resolving data entry discrepancies between the double entered data. We have also finished with the DNA extraction process and will begin to genotype our samples. We are now collaborating with Dr. Alice Ceacareanu, from the School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences at the State University of New York at Buffalo, who will now perform the hormone measurements in her laboratory. We have finished optimizing techniques with serum from healthy volunteers, and will begin with study samples shortly. Cortisol-related measurements will now be sent to the Biobehavioral Medicine Core Facility at the University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute, which is overseen by Dr. Dana Bovbjerg, one of my mentors on the grant.
Language:
English

Title:
A Novel Combination of Thermal Ablation and Heat-Inducible Gene Therapy for Breast Cancer Treatment
Document ID:
20090038233
Report #:
AD-A506321
Available Online:
http://hdl.handle.net/100.2/ADA506321
Sales Agency:
Defense Technical Information Center (DTIC) No Copyright
Author(s):
Yuan, Fang
Published:
20080401
Source:
Duke Univ. (Durham, NC United States)
Pages:
6
Contract #:
W81XWH-06-0461
Abstract:
High intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) is a rapidly developing technique for cancer thermal ablation with secondary biological effects, such as heat shock response, that may be harnessed for adjunct therapies. To gain further insight into the potential for HIFU to be utilized in conjunction with gene therapy, a transparent cell-embedded tissue mimicking phantom was developed. Most physical parameters of the agrose-based hydrogel fell within the accepted range of values for soft tissues. Lesions produced under different combinations of HIFU intensity and exposure duration could be visualized inside the phantoms. GFP positive cells were primarily found within a circumferential region surrounding the primary site of lesion formation. The thermal necrosis boundary (EM43=240min) fell into this gene activation zone.
Language:
English

Title:
O-GlcNAc Misregulation and Aneuploidy in Breast Cancer
Document ID:
20090038234
Report #:
AD-A506322
Available Online:
http://hdl.handle.net/100.2/ADA506322
Sales Agency:
Defense Technical Information Center (DTIC) No Copyright
Author(s):
Mueller, Adam
Published:
20090501
Source:
Virginia Univ. (Charlottesville, VA United States)
Pages:
16
Contract #:
W81XWH-08-1-0284 BC073568
Abstract:
We examined the effects of siRNA depletion of Early Mitotic Inhibitor 1(Emi1) with O-GlcNAc transferase(OGT) and O-GlcNAcase(NCOAT) on re-replication and found a modest increase in rereplication with NCOAT/Emi1 knockdown. By western analysis our knockdown has been modest, and we have further optimization of the siRNA conditions to perform. We have identified a set of microRNAs whose expression are regulated by DNA damage in breast cancer, including miR-29c, which has been shown to play a role in regulating cell survival. We have found that miR-29c expression is induced in multiple cell lines following DNA damage, and its basal expression is affected by the p53 status of the cell line. We intend to examine whether miRNAs involved in cell survival following DNA damage can act synergistically with re-replication generated by Emi1 knockdown and interference with O-GlcNAc signaling leading to malignant transformation.
Language:
English

Title:
System Design, Algorithm Development, and Verification for Optoacoustic Molecular Imaging of Protease Expression in Breast Cancer
Document ID:
20090038235
Report #:
AD-A506325
Available Online:
http://hdl.handle.net/100.2/ADA506325
Sales Agency:
Defense Technical Information Center (DTIC) No Copyright
Author(s):
Modgil, Dimple
Published:
20090501
Source:
Chicago Univ. (Chicago, IL United States)
Pages:
45
Contract #:
W81XWH-08-1-0331
Abstract:
Optoacoustic tomography (OAT) is an emerging, hybrid technique that is non-invasive and uses non-ionizing radiation. No one has yet developed a molecular probe for early detection of proteases in breast cancer using OAT. Our group is developing a molecular probe and an optoacoustic imaging system to address this. During the first year of this project, we have implemented the code that simulates the ideal optoacoustic system. We have compared existing 2D algorithms in OAT with respect to contrast, resolution, noise and signal detectability. We also explored the effect of variable speed of sound and ultrasonic attenuation on image quality. We derived new techniques to address these physical effects that could cause image distortion and blurring.
Language:
English

Title:
Kevlar Vest Protection Against Blast Overpressure Brain Injury: Systemic Contributions to Injury Etiology
Document ID:
20090038237
Report #:
AD-A506328
Available Online:
http://hdl.handle.net/100.2/ADA506328
Sales Agency:
Defense Technical Information Center (DTIC) No Copyright
Author(s):
Long, Joseph B
Published:
20090501
Source:
Geneva Foundation (Lakewood, WA United States)
Pages:
13
Contract #:
W81XWH-08-2-0017
Abstract:
The etiology of blast-induced traumatic brain injury (TBI) is largely undefined. Along with reducing mortality, in preliminary experiments Kevlar vests significantly protected against BOP-induced neuropathological changes in rats. We postulate that: 1) much of the blast-induced fiber degeneration in brain results from pressure surges transmitted through the vasculature that elicit a series of intracranial disruptions, and 2) Kevlar vests are neuroprotective by uncoupling this pressure transmission following exposure to blast. Using a compression driven shock tube, we compare external, systemic (e.g. vascular arterial and venous), and central (e.g. intracranial pressure) BOP-induced pressure changes, and assess the impact of Kevlar vests on these changes. We seek to: 1) determine if measured pressure changes are blast severity-dependent and correspond with outcome measures, and 2) assess the impact of Kevlar vests on measured BOP-induced pressure changes and outcome measures and establish whether a protective vest encasing the thorax ameliorates blast-induced brain injury, pointing to a significant contribution of the effects of blast on the thorax to brain injury. These studies will provide critical insights into the etiology of blast-induced brain injury, and will advance the development of mitigation strategies.
Language:
English

Title:
Interaction of Synuclein and Inflammation in Dopaminergic Neurodegeneration
Document ID:
20090038243
Report #:
AD-A506349
Available Online:
http://hdl.handle.net/100.2/ADA506349
Sales Agency:
Defense Technical Information Center (DTIC) No Copyright
Author(s):
Przedborski, Serge
Published:
20090701
Source:
Columbia Univ. (New York, NY United States)
Pages:
14
Contract #:
W81XWH-08-1-0465
Abstract:
Parkinson's Disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the loss of the dopamine (DA) neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNpc) of the brain. How the inflammatory response in PD is initiated is unknown. Since synuclein is expressed within the DA neuron, it is possible that synuclein may play a role in the initiation of the inflammatory response. To test this possibility, we injected WT alpha-synuclein into the SNpc of rats and sacrificed these animals at 2 days (2D), 4D and 7D after injection. At 2D after injection, using MAC-1 immunostaining for microglia, a full-blown inflammatory response was noted in the synuclein-injected SNpc compared to the saline-injected SNpc. This response was still strong at the 7D timepoint. There was also a mild astrocyte response on glial fibrillary acidic protein )GFAP) immunostaining Also noted was a small but non-significant decrease in tyrosine hydroxylase positive neuron numbers in the synuclein-injected rats. These data demonstrate a synuclein-initiated neuroinflammation in an in vivo setting.
Language:
English

Title:
Imaging Heat Shock Protein 90 (Hsp90) Activity in Hormone-Refractory Prostate Cancer
Document ID:
20090038247
Report #:
AD-A506361
Available Online:
http://hdl.handle.net/100.2/ADA506361
Sales Agency:
Defense Technical Information Center (DTIC) No Copyright
Author(s):
Niu, Gang
Published:
20090301
Source:
Stanford Univ. (Stanford, CA United States)
Pages:
14
Contract #:
W81XWH-08-1-0113 PC073549
Abstract:
During the first year of the funding period, we have labeled 1, 3-propoyldiamine modified geldanamycin with both fluorescent core (FITC in this case) and radioisotopes. Unfortunately, in vitro cell experiments failed to disclose the ability of FITC-GM to monitor Hsp90 activity changes after heat stimulation in prostate cancer cell lines. Small molecular Hsp90 inhibitors, at least GM derivatives, showed reasonable tumor accumulation after being labeled with 64Cu. However, in vitro experiments revealed that the GM derivatives are insufficient to tell the changes of both Hsp90 level and activity after stimulation. It might be more appropriate to use GM imaging for tumor detection instead of Hsp90 activity monitoring.
Language:
English

Title:
The Impact of Prostate Cancer Treatment-Related Symptoms on Low-Income Latino Couples
Document ID:
20090038253
Report #:
AD-A506380
Available Online:
http://hdl.handle.net/100.2/ADA506380
Sales Agency:
Defense Technical Information Center (DTIC) No Copyright
Author(s):
Maliski, Sally L
Published:
20090301
Source:
California Univ. (Los Angeles, CA United States)
Pages:
12
Contract #:
W81WH-07-1-0069
Abstract:
Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed non-skin cancer among men in the United States. Even when prostate cancer is diagnosed and treated early, there are a number of side effects that can have an impact on a man's quality of life, including erectile dysfunction, incontinence, and a diminished desire for sexual relations. Because of these treatment side effects, prostate cancer is often considered a couples' disease. The purpose of this study is to describe the impact of prostate cancer treatment-related symptoms on low-income couples in which the man has undergone a radical prostatectomy. The authors will investigate the impact of prostate cancer treatment-related symptoms on low-income Latino, African-American, and Caucasian couples at 3 different time points after the man's prostate cancer surgery. They will interview couples who participate in the study at 6-12 months, 14-24 months, and 24-36 months after the man's surgery. Each time, the man and his partner will be interviewed separately and then together by a male interviewer for the men and a female interviewer for the women. The men will be asked to complete one questionnaire that asks about urinary, bowel, sexual, and hormonal symptoms, and a second questionnaire that asks about his relationship with his partner. The partner will be asked to complete the same relationship questionnaire. Couples will be interviewed by telephone. Analysis of this data will allow the authors to identify the types of interventions that are needed and would be acceptable to these couples. Information from this study will be critical to the development of interventions that are specific to the culture and needs of low-income couples who are managing the symptoms of prostate cancer treatment.
Language:
English

Title:
Biomarkers for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis in Active Duty Military (BALSAM)
Document ID:
20090038257
Report #:
AD-A506392
Available Online:
http://hdl.handle.net/100.2/ADA506392
Sales Agency:
Defense Technical Information Center (DTIC) No Copyright
Author(s):
Millhorn, David Schlager, John
Published:
20090201
Source:
Cincinnati Univ. (OH United States)
Pages:
56
Contract #:
W81XWH-08-2-0016
Abstract:
To compare serum samples from individuals diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) to serum samples from matched individuals who did not develop ALS. In this study we aim to identify candidate serum biomarkers that are unique for ALS and identify a subset of diagnostic serum biomarkers for early detection of ALS prior to the appearance of overt symptoms. Scope: The significance of a positive identification of protein biomarkers for ALS is indisputably great. However, to date no validated clinically relevant biomarkers have been found to allow a more specific diagnosis of ALS at an earlier stage. Previous efforts to identify ALS associated biomarkers have often focused on the identification of genes and proteins characteristic for familial ALS, yet validated biomarkers for sporadic ALS, which accounts for as much as 90-95% of all ALS cases, have yet to be identified. Major Findings: None at this time. Progress: This study received USAMRMC HSSRB approval on 15 Jan 2007. The Durham VA and Univ. of Cincinnati IRB protocols have also been approved. Durham VA IRB began consenting the VA ALS registry members for this study. Model system 2-D gel and mass spectrometry studies have been conducted to develop improved techniques for biomarker identification.
Language:
English

Title:
Pharmacological Studies of NOP Receptor Agonists as Novel Analgesics
Document ID:
20090038259
Report #:
AD-A506395
Available Online:
http://hdl.handle.net/100.2/ADA506395
Sales Agency:
Defense Technical Information Center (DTIC) No Copyright
Author(s):
Ko, Mei-Chuan
Published:
20090501
Source:
Michigan Univ. (Ann Arbor, MI United States)
Pages:
36
Contract #:
W81XWH-07-1-0162
Abstract:
The studies proposed in this project will test the hypotheses that in the non-human primate (1) the functions and behavioral effects of the NOP receptor are independent of classical opioid receptors, (2) activation of the NOP receptor produces strong antinociception without abuse liability, and (3) NOP receptor agonists possess a promising therapeutic profile as analgesics compared to mu opioids following repeated administration in primates. Several key findings have been obtained and some have been published. First, intrathecal administration of N/OFQ only produced antinociception in primates. The functional profiles of spinal NOP receptors are different between primates and rodents. Second, intrathecal administration of N/OFQ produced antinociception without eliciting itch/scratching responses, indicating that NOP receptor agonists represent a therapeutic target as spinal analgesics. Third, NOP receptor agonists produced antinociceptive effects comparable to clinically used mu opioids such as morphine and alfentanil in three different primate pain models, indicating that the analgesic effectiveness of NOP receptor agonists may be similar to that of mu opioid analgesics in humans. Finally, unlike mu opioids, NOP receptor agonists did not produce reinforcing effects, respiratory depressant, sedation, or itch/pruritic side effects, indicating that NOP receptor agonists may be a new generation of novel analgesics without abuse liability.
Language:
English

Title:
Jagged-1 Signaling Pathway in Prostate Cancer Cell Growth and Angiogenesis
Document ID:
20090038262
Report #:
AD-A506403
Available Online:
http://hdl.handle.net/100.2/ADA506403
Sales Agency:
Defense Technical Information Center (DTIC) No Copyright
Author(s):
Wang, Zhiwei
Published:
20090401
Source:
Wayne State Univ. (Detroit, MI United States)
Pages:
16
Contract #:
W81XWH-08-1-0196
Abstract:
Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer and is the second leading cause of cancer death in the US. Most patients diagnosed with prostate cancer are treatable, but the patients usually die from hormone refractory (HRPC) and metastatic disease. We have previously shown that expression of Notch receptors and their ligands is upregulated in many cancers including prostate cancer. We hypothesize that inactivation of Jagged-1 signaling, which could be directly due to transcriptional inactivation of Jagged-1 or indirectly due to inactivation of Akt/NF-kB, will not only be a novel approach for the treatment of HRPC and metastases but will also sensitize prostate cancer cells to Taxotere-induced killing. We found that down-regulation of Notch-1 and Jagged-1 induced cell growth inhibition and cell apoptosis. We also found that down-regulation of Notch-1 and Jagged-1 decreased the expression and activities of VEGF, MMP-9, uPA. Moreover, down-regulation of Notch- 1 and Jagged-1 inhibited the NF-kB DNA binding activity. Consistent with these results, we also found that the down-regulation of Notch-1 and Jagged-1 inhibited the cell migration and invasion in prostate cells. Collectively, our results suggest that downregulation of Jagged-1 and Notch-1 could be useful strategy for treatment of prostate cancer. Based on above hypothesis, this proposal seems highly relevant to the mission of the Department of Defense.
Language:
English

Title:
Linking Estrogens, Prostatitis and Prostate Cancer
Document ID:
20090038272
Report #:
AD-A506437
Available Online:
http://hdl.handle.net/100.2/ADA506437
Sales Agency:
Defense Technical Information Center (DTIC) No Copyright
Author(s):
Ellem, Stuart J
Published:
20090301
Source:
Monash Univ. (Victoria, Australia)
Pages:
20
Contract #:
W81XWH-08-1-0124 PC073307
Abstract:
This study aims to examine the role that estrogens and inflammation may play in the development and progression of prostate cancer. In order to demonstrate this, we have sought to characterise the inflammation and potential development of pre-malignancy in the aromatase over-expressing (AROM+) mouse as well as examine the impact of inflammation on aromatase expression and estrogen metabolism in human tissue. Significant progress has been made towards the aims. We have demonstrated that the AROM+ mouse develops chronic inflammation from 30 weeks of age and this inflammation has been extensively and thoroughly characterised; these data have also indicated a novel and significant role for mast cells in this process. We have also demonstrated that the AROM+ mice also develop pre-malignant lesions by 52 weeks of age, which is after the emergence of inflammation. These lesions have also been thoroughly characterised. Taken together, these data demonstrate that exposure to elevated physiological levels of estrogens are associated with the development of prostatic inflammation, and, subsequently, pre-malignancy. Additionally, these early data show that the AROM+ mouse is a novel, nonbacterial model for the study of prostate inflammation.
Language:
English

Title:
Targeting Prostate Cancer for Gene Therapy Utilizing Lentivirus and Oncolytic VSV Virus
Document ID:
20090038273
Report #:
AD-A506438
Available Online:
http://hdl.handle.net/100.2/ADA506438
Sales Agency:
Defense Technical Information Center (DTIC) No Copyright
Author(s):
Moussavi, Maryam
Published:
20090401
Source:
British Columbia Univ. (Vancouver, British Columbia Canada)
Pages:
23
Contract #:
W81XWH-08-1-0131
Abstract:
Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed non-skin carcinoma, and one of the leading causes of cancerrelated deaths in North American men. Presently there are no curative therapies available for advanced metastatic prostate cancer. Oncolytic viral therapy provides an opportunity to efficiently kill primary and metastatic cancer cells while sparing normal cells. Vesicular Stomatitis Virus (VSV) is an oncolytic virus which is able to replicate in cells with a defective interferon (INF) response. Here, we examined the effect of a mutated VSV (AV3), which expresses luciferase and has an enhanced INF-sensitivity, on the viability of prostate tumours that develop in prostate-specific PTEN null transgenic mice. Prostates of PTEN knockout and control mice were injected with 5x108 pfu/ml of VSV(AV3) and monitored for luminescence over a 96h time period using the IVIS-Xenogen machine to track the virus distribution. Plaque analyses for live virus n tissues extracted at various time points revealed that VSV(AV3)predominantly replicated in the prostates of transgenic PTEN knockout mice. Additionally, using TUNNEL staining of paraffin embedded tissues, we demonstrated that VSV(AV3) is capable of selectively infecting and killing malignant prostate cells while sparing normal cells. This cancer-specific cell death was not due to infiltration of neutrophils into the prostate tumours of PTEN null mice's has been reported for other tumour mode. However, there was an increase in macrophage and Blymphocyte infiltration into the prostates of PTEN null mice compared to control mice. In conclusion, VSV(AV3) is able to replicate and selectively kill the prostate cancer cells that develop in the PTEN null mouse and hence prove clinically useful for treating locally advanced prostate cancer while sparing normal prostate tissue.
Language:
English

Title:
Optimizing and Evaluating an Integrated SPECT-CmT System Dedicated to Improved 3-D Breast Cancer Imaging
Document ID:
20090038276
Report #:
AD-A506446
Available Online:
http://hdl.handle.net/100.2/ADA506446
Sales Agency:
Defense Technical Information Center (DTIC) No Copyright
Author(s):
Crotty, Dominic J
Published:
20090501
Source:
Duke Univ. (Durham, NC United States)
Pages:
64
Contract #:
W81XWH-08-1-0352
Abstract:
The overall objective of this research is to optimize the development of a combined dual-modality single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) and x-ray computed mammotomography (CmT) system for the earlier detection and staging of breast cancer, improving surgical biopsy guidance, and the monitoring of patient therapy response. Co-registered acquisition of emission (nuclear) and transmission (x-ray) data using both 3D imaging modalities in a common field of view may aid to accurately localize the radioactive tumor uptake in the emission image by using anatomical structure from the transmission image. In the first year of this grant the complete hybrid imaging system, including a custom designed patient bed, were successfully integrated and used to complete single and dual-modality patient imaging studies. The tradeoffs inherent in the design of the custom-made bed for prone-patient imaging were investigated by evaluating the effects of limited angle tomography on reconstructed CmT image quality of the pendant breast volume. Novel 3D system trajectories to help overcome the design tradeoffs were also investigated with an observer study used to quantify the results. Initial steps in the process of designing a fully integrated imaging system with both modalities capable of full 3D motion were also taken. In addition to research, experience in other areas of breast cancer screening and detection were explored through shadowing clinical procedures.
Language:
English

Title:
Alternate Splicing of CD44 Messenger RNA in Prostate Cancer Growth
Document ID:
20090038354
Report #:
AD-A506471
Sales Agency:
Defense Technical Information Center (DTIC) No Copyright
Author(s):
Iczkowski, Kenneth A
Published:
20090401
Source:
Colorado Univ. (Aurora, CO United States)
Pages:
84
Contract #:
W81XWH-07-1-0300
Abstract:
Aim 1: Loss of CD44 standard and increased splice variant form CD44v7-10 facilitate prostate cancer (PC) invasion. First Sub-Aim: A manuscript was published (attached) on the role of Mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways and paracrine calcitonin, both of which dysregulate CD44. Second Sub-Aim: Metabolic labeling studies of CD44 total and CD44v7-10 protein were pursued over about a 6- month period, but the findings were not publishable. Aim 2: The use of adeno-associated virus for altering expression of CD44 prior to in vitro and in vivo studies was prohibitive owing to viral cytopathic effect. Instead, we used lentiviral or retroviral transfection methods in PC-3M cells, for stably altered expression. Confirmation of re-expression of CD44s as a Fusion protein (with luciferase) or Separate protein, or of RNAi knockdown of CD44v7-10, was achieved using qRT-PCR, western blot analysis, and IVIS visualization of luminescence after adding luciferin substrate, in a flask or mouse tumor. Cells re-expressing CD44s as a Separate protein had decreased growth, decreased Matrigel migration and invasion, decreased anchorage independent colony formation, restoration of adhesion to hyaluronan (a benign feature), and apparently less tumor take and growth rate of subcutaneous xenografts in mice. Whether CD44s re-expression influences chemosensitivity to Docetaxel will require more experiments. Expression of CD44s as a Fusion protein was less definitive in assays. Effects of RNAi to CD44v7-10 are not clear yet.
Language:
English

Title:
Accession Medical Standards Analysis and Research Activity (AMSARA) Annual Report 2009
Document ID:
20090038355
Report #:
AD-A506472
Sales Agency:
Defense Technical Information Center (DTIC) No Copyright
Author(s):
Niebuhr, David W Cavicchia, Melinda A Bedno, Sheryl A Yuanzhang, Li Cowan, David N Barker, Matthew E Han, Weiwei Mayo, Jonathan A Packnett, Elizabeth R Yi, Bin Gary, Janice K
Published:
20090929
Source:
Walter Reed Army Inst. of Research (Silver Spring, MD United States)
Pages:
99
Contract #:
W81XWH-07-F-0067
Abstract:
AMSARA's mission is to support the development of evidence based accession standards for the Department of Defense (DoD) by guiding improvement of medical and administrative databases and conducting epidemiologic and special studies analyses. Special studies presented in this AR include analyses of accession medical waivers, existed prior to service (EPTS) discharges and other types of discharges. Descriptive statistics are reported for DoD enlisted accessions who enlisted in 2008. Data are collected while the recruits remain on active duty for the first fiscal year (during fiscal year 2008 for this report). The data are then collated, cleaned, and analyzed. Further data are collected and are included in the following AMSARA Annual Report.
Language:
English

Title:
Integration of Diagnostic and Interventional MRI for the Study of Persistent Prostate Cancer After External Beam Radiotherapy
Document ID:
20090038359
Report #:
AD-A506484
Sales Agency:
Defense Technical Information Center (DTIC) No Copyright
Author(s):
Menard, Cynthia
Published:
20081001
Source:
University Health Network (Toronto, Ontario Canada)
Pages:
9
Contract #:
W81XWH-05-1-0570
Abstract:
This study involves the technical development and clinical testing of a novel technique for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) guided prostate biopsy in a 1.5T horizontal bore scanner using a dedicated interventional table. We primarily hypothesize that the integration of diagnostic and interventional MRI enables needle biopsy targeting to foci of tumor recurrence after radiotherapy, and will enable a determination of the diagnostic accuracy of MRI in mapping sub-sites of tumor recurrence after radiotherapy. From September 2007 to September 2008, accrual to stages 1 and 2 of the trial was completed. One patient was also accrued to stage 3 of the trial. Here we report tasks 1e and 2a of Aims1 and 2. Clinical needle targeting accuracy has been maintained at 2mm, and motion improved. A method for 3D mapping of tumor using FEM analysis has be developed and reported here.
Language:
English

Title:
Effect of Six Days of Staging on Physiologic Adjustments and Acute Mountain Sickness During Ascent to 4300 Meters
Document ID:
20090038373
Report #:
AD-A506547, M09-14
Sales Agency:
Defense Technical Information Center (DTIC) No Copyright
Author(s):
Beldleman, Beth A Fulco, Charles S Muza, Stephen R Rock, Paul B Staab, Janet E Forte, Vincent A Brothers, Michael D Cymerman, Allen
Published:
20090101
Source:
Army Research Inst. of Environmental Medicine (Natick, MA United States)
Pages:
9
Contract #:
None
Abstract:
This study determined the effectiveness of 6 days (d) of staging at 2200m on physiologic adjustments and acute mountain sickness (AMS) during rapid, high-risk ascent to 4300m. Eleven sea-level (SL) resident men (means +SD; 21+3 yr; 78+13 kg) completed resting measures of end-tidal CO2 (Petco2), arterial oxygen saturation (Sao2), heart rate (HR), and mean arterial pressure (MAP) at SL and within 1 h of exposure to 4300m in a hypobaric chamber prior to 6 d of staging at 2200m (preSTG) and on the summit of Pikes Peak following 6 d of staging at 2200m (postSTG). Immediately following resting ventilation measures, all performed submaximal exercise (55% of altitude-specific maximal oxygen uptake) for 2 h on a bicycle ergometer to induce higher levels of AMS. AMS-C, calculated from the Environmental Symptoms Questionnaire, was measured following 4 h and 8 h of exposure at preSTG and postSTG, and the mean was calculated. Resting Petco2 (mmHg) was unchanged from SL (39.8+2.6) to preSTG (39.3+3.0), but decreased ( p0.05) from preSTG to postSTG (32.8+2.6). Resting Sao2 (%) decreased ( p0.05) from SL (97+2) to preSTG (80+4) and increased ( p0.05) from preSTG to postSTG (83+3). Resting HR (bpm) and MAP (mmHg) did not change in any of the test conditions. The incidence and severity of AMS-C decreased ( p0.05) from preSTG (9130%; 1.050.56) to postSTG (4553%; 0.590.43), respectively. These results suggest that modest physiologic adjustments induced by staging for 6 d at 2200m reduced the incidence and severity of AMS during rapid, high-risk ascent to 4300 m.
Language:
English

Title:
Alkylating Derivatives of Vitamin D Hormone for Prostate Cancer
Document ID:
20090038375
Report #:
AD-A506555
Sales Agency:
Defense Technical Information Center (DTIC) No Copyright
Author(s):
Ray, Rahul
Published:
20081001
Source:
Boston Univ. (Boston, MA United States)
Pages:
21
Contract #:
W81XWH-05-1-0546
Abstract:
The two most significant achievements in this reporting period are : launching of studies to evaluate the molecular mechanism/s of action of . 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3-3-bromoacetate (1,25(OH)2D3-3-BE), and development of an androgen-sensitive mouse model of human prostate cancer. In addition we have screened several cancer cell lines to determine potential efficacy of 1,25(OH)2D3-3-BE in cancers, in addition to prostate cancer.
Language:
English

Title:
Integration of Diagnostic and Interventional MRI for the Study of Persistent Prostate Cancer After External Beam Radiotherapy
Document ID:
20090038376
Report #:
AD-A506560
Sales Agency:
Defense Technical Information Center (DTIC) No Copyright
Author(s):
Menard, Cynthia
Published:
20081001
Source:
University Health Network (Toronto, Ontario Canada)
Pages:
9
Contract #:
W81XWH-05-1-0570
Abstract:
This study involves the technical development and clinical testing of a novel technique for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) guided prostate biopsy in a 1.5T horizontal bore scanner using a dedicated interventional table. We primarily hypothesize that the integration of diagnostic and interventional MRI enables needle biopsy targeting to foci of tumor recurrence after radiotherapy, and will enable a determination of the diagnostic accuracy of MRI in mapping sub-sites of tumor recurrence after radiotherapy. From September 2007 to September 2008, accrual to stages 1 and 2 of the trial was completed. One patient was also accrued to stage 3 of the trial. Here we report tasks 1e and 2a of Aims1 and 2. Clinical needle targeting accuracy has been maintained at 2mm, and motion improved. A method for 3D mapping of tumor using FEM analysis has be developed and reported here.
Language:
English

Title:
Ensuring Biologics Advanced Development and Manufacturing Capability for the United States Government: A Summary of Key Findings and Conclusions
Document ID:
20090038380
Report #:
AD-A506569
Sales Agency:
Defense Technical Information Center (DTIC) No Copyright
Author(s):
Fuerst, Thomas Wallace, Kim Gomez, Phillip Gambale, Philomena Baird, Andrew Thomas, Stryk
Published:
20091006
Source:
University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (PA United States)
Pages:
180
Contract #:
HR0011-07-2-0003
Abstract:
Medical countermeasures (MCMs) are urgently needed to protect military and civilian populations against a chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) attack and naturally occurring outbreaks of emerging infectious diseases. However, the United States Government (USG) does not have the capability to rapidly develop, license, and manufacture MCMs and many USG requirements for MCMs remain unmet. Ensuring the rapid development, licensure, and cost-effective production of MCMs especially biologics-based vaccines and therapeutics, is crucial to building a balanced portfolio of MCMs at the Department of Defense (DoD) and the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to protect national security and public health. Consequently, the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) entered into a cooperative agreement with the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) to study the best means for creating and sustaining this critical capability. At the request of DoD and in coordination with HHS, the UPMC study examined the scientific advantages, technical feasibility, and economic savings related to building a centralized capability for advanced development and manufacture of MCMs to support the approximately 80 biodefense innovators (biotechnology companies, academia, and research & development [R&D] labs) currently funded by DoD and HHS. To this end, the study first determined current USG demand for biologics manufacturing and identified the collective strengths and weaknesses of the current MCM development and acquisition model as articulated in interviews with multiple interagency and industry experts. The study then examined ways in which to leverage advances in biomanufacturing technology and regulatory guidelines for flexible manufacturing and combine advance development and production of biologics in a multi-product facility focused on satisfying USG needs. Finally, the study identified various operating models for structuring the capability and m
Language:
English

Title:
Efforts and Programs of the Department of Defense Relating to the Prevention, Mitigation, and Treatment of Blast Injuries
Document ID:
20090038383
Report #:
AD-A506577
Sales Agency:
Defense Technical Information Center (DTIC) No Copyright
Author(s):
(Author(s) Not Available)
Published:
20080101
Source:
Department of Defense (Washington, DC United States)
Pages:
37
Contract #:
None
Abstract:
Section 256 of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2006, Public Law 109-163, provides that the Secretary of Defense shall submit a report on the efforts and programs of the Department of Defense (DoD) relating to the prevention, mitigation, and treatment of blast injuries. The report is to include the following elements of information: 1. A description of the activities undertaken under this section during the 2 years preceding the report to improve the prevention, mitigation, and treatment of blast injuries. 2. A consolidated budget presentation for DoD biomedical research efforts and studies related to blast injury for the 2 fiscal years (FY) following the year of the report. 3. A description of any gaps in the capabilities of the Department and any plans to address such gaps within biomedical research related to blast injury, blast injury diagnostic and treatment programs, and blast injury tracking and monitoring activities. 4. A description of collaboration, if any, with other departments and agencies of the federal government and with other countries during the 2 years preceding the report in efforts for the prevention, mitigation, and treatment of blast injuries. 5. A description of any efforts during the 2 years preceding the report to disseminate findings on the diagnosis and treatment of blast injuries through civilian and military research and medical communities. 6. A description of the status of efforts during the 2 years preceding the report to incorporate blast injury effects data into appropriate programs of the DoD and into the development of comprehensive force protection systems that are effective in confronting blast, ballistic, and fire threats.
Language:
English
Notes:
Annual report to Congress

Title:
The Effect of Glycolytic Modulation in Prostate Cancer
Document ID:
20090038387
Report #:
AD-A506625
Sales Agency:
Defense Technical Information Center (DTIC) No Copyright
Author(s):
DiPaola, Robert S White, Eileen
Published:
20091101
Source:
New Jersey Medical School (New Brunswick, NJ United States)
Pages:
28
Contract #:
W81XWH-05-1-0036
Abstract:
Advanced prostate cancer is only temporarily controlled by androgen ablation therapy or chemotherapy, warranting the study of novel approaches. In this regard, recent studies have demonstrated that abnormal growth factor and apoptotic pathways,required by tumor cells to resist multiple insults, can drive tumor cells to even further dependence on glycolysis, supporting a rationale for selectivity of abrogating glycolysis in tumor cells compared to normal cells. Additional recent studies have demonstrated that starvation of tumor cells may induce the process of autophagy, or cell self digestion, and that autophagy may represent a mechanism of tumor cell resistance if allowed to continue only temporarily, followed by cell death if the process of autophagy continues for a prolonged period. In this proposal, we test the hypothesis that modulation of glycolysis will improve clinical results. We therefore hypothesize that 2-deoxyglucose will be safe and active in patients, and abnormal cell pathways such as constitutive activation of Akt, abnormal regulation of autophagy, and other oncogenes may increase sensitivity to inhibition of glycolysis. To test this hypothesis we have the following specific aims: 1. To inhibit glycolysis in patients with prostate cancer in a phase I/II study of 2-deoxyglucose. 2. To determine the mechanism of inhibition of tumor cell growth through modulation of glycolysis.
Language:
English

Title:
Preventing Epilepsy After Traumatic Brain Injury
Document ID:
20090038388
Report #:
AD-A506626
Sales Agency:
Defense Technical Information Center (DTIC) No Copyright
Author(s):
Dichter, Marc A
Published:
20090201
Source:
Pennsylvania Univ. (Philadelphia, PA United States)
Pages:
13
Contract #:
W81XWH-05-1-0020
Abstract:
The purpose of this study was to determine the feasibility of performing a single center epilepsy prevention trial after traumatic brain injury (TBI), to determine safety and tolerability of topiramate in the treatment of early seizures following TBI, and to compare the efficacy of topiramate to prevent early seizures to the standard of care (phenytoin). A secondary objective was to obtain data necessary to design of a randomized clinical trial for preventing epilepsy and improving neurological outcome after TBI. Initially, we formulated the protocol and documents required by regulatory bodies and received approval by the IRB at the University of Pennsylvania, HRRPO at the US Army, and the FDA. The infrastructure for the study was established, including interactions with the trauma center, neurosurgical services, EEG laboratory, pharmacy, etc. Subject recruitment began but was initially very slow and the protocol was revised to eliminate several major obstacles. Ultimately, we enrolled many fewer subjects into the study then intended and the reasons for that were carefully analyzed, as were other lessons learned from the pilot trial. We have also organized a NINDS workshop on Biomarkers for Epileptogenesis and a program to assist gulf war veterans with TBI, and have been influential in enhancing epilepsy care for veterans within the DVA.
Language:
English

Title:
Breast Density Assessment by Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry in Women and Girls
Document ID:
20090038391
Report #:
AD-A506631
Sales Agency:
Defense Technical Information Center (DTIC) No Copyright
Author(s):
Maskarinec, Gertraud Novotny, Rachel
Published:
20090701
Source:
Hawaii Univ. (Honolulu, HI United States)
Pages:
8
Contract #:
W81XWH-07-1-0489
Abstract:
Increasing evidence suggests that breast cancer risk is determined early in life. Mammographic density has been used as a biomarker for breast cancer risk because of its strong association with breast cancer. However, use of this screening method is contraindicated in young women and girls because the risk of X-ray based mammograms outweighs potential benefits in that age group. In contrast, Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DXA) has extremely low radiation and is commonly available. The specific aims of this project among adult women and adolescent girls, who will be recruited as mothers and daughters, will be to 1. Correlate breast density measured by DXA with mammographic density among adult women; 2. Compare the association of known breast cancer risk factors with breast density from DXA scans to their association with mammographic density; 3. Assess DXA breast density by Tanner stage of breast maturation among adolescent girls; 4. Relate DXA breast density to other observable measures of pubertal maturation, e.g., height and menarche; and 5. Examine the relation between breast density measured by DXA in mothers and daughters. During this year, we have recruited 19 mother-daughter pairs plus one additional daughter and obtained DXA scan images from all participants. We project to recruit the remaining 80% (81 mother-daughter pairs) and complete data collection by the end of next year. Upon completion of the study, our multiethnic sample will generate a pilot data on the DXA scan as a method to evaluate breast cancer risks in women and young girls from various ethnic groups.
Language:
English

Title:
Angiogenic Signaling in Living Breast Tumor Models
Document ID:
20090038392
Report #:
AD-A506632
Sales Agency:
Defense Technical Information Center (DTIC) No Copyright
Author(s):
Brown, Edward
Published:
20090601
Source:
Rochester Univ. (NY United States)
Pages:
68
Contract #:
W81XWH-05-1-0396
Abstract:
In this grant we propose to elucidate the signaling pathway that translates VEGFR activation into elevated vessel permeability, in endothelial cells within living breast tumor models. The working hypothesis is that the signaling pathway involved is a constitutively active form of the pathway shown for healthy mesenteric microvessels. Progress to date includes the training of personnel in the laboratory, the completion of instrumentation development for a novel method for the measurement of convective flow in tumors in vivo and extensive analysis of its capabilities, extensive investigation of breast tumor exctracellular matrix using second harmonic generation, extensive analysis of the abilities of a novel permeability measurement technique and numerous preliminary experiments to establish methodology for tasks to commence in upcoming years.
Language:
English

Title:
Proteomic Prediction of Breast Cancer Risk: A Cohort Study
Document ID:
20090038401
Report #:
AD-A506647
Sales Agency:
Defense Technical Information Center (DTIC) No Copyright
Author(s):
Rohan, Thomas E
Published:
20090301
Source:
Albert Einstein Coll. of Medicine (Bronx, NY United States)
Pages:
68
Contract #:
W81XWH-05-1-0298
Abstract:
Our objective is to develop and test proteomic methods for the prediction of breast cancer risk, an approach that has not been attempted previously. Our underlying hypothesis is that proteomic analysis of serum will identify proteins differentially expressed in women who do versus those who do not develop invasive breast cancer, and that these differences will be identifiable prior to the clinical presentation of breast cancer. Our work is being conducted in two phases, a training phase and a test phase. Both phases will be conducted as case-control studies nested in a population-based cohort of women who were members of Kaiser Permanente. These serum specimens were collected between 1986 and 1992. We have finalized our cohort definition, finalized the definition of cases and controls; finalized the criteria for matching controls to cases; selected the cases and controls; pulled and aliquotted the serum specimens. For the proteomic analysis, we have developed a detailed protocol for analysis of the serum samples. Briefly, the serum sample is loaded onto an immunoaffinity column to deplete twelve abundant proteins, and the flow-through fraction is collected and subjected to tryptic digestion. Subsequently, the peptides are labeled with iTRAQ reagents and fractionated by cation exchange chromatography (SCX). Six pooled SCX fractions are separately loaded onto a reverse phase column and followed by MALDI-TOF/TOF (4800 Proteomic Analyzer) analyses. The data collected are automatically processed, combined, and searched against a human protein database. This procedure has been thoroughly tested for quantitation and complexity (dynamic range) and a reproducibility study is underway. By applying this high-resolution proteomic approach to a prospective setting, this ongoing project should enhance our ability to identify those women at increased risk of breast cancer and intervene before they progress to cancer.
Language:
English

Title:
Solidago Virgaurea for Prostate Cancer Therapy
Document ID:
20090038402
Report #:
AD-A506648
Sales Agency:
Defense Technical Information Center (DTIC) No Copyright
Author(s):
Watabe, Kounosuke
Published:
20090401
Source:
University of Southern Illinois (Springfield, IL United States)
Pages:
47
Contract #:
W81XWH-07-1-0202
Abstract:
Prostate cancer is one of the most resistant tumors to chemotherapy among all adenocarcinomas, and there is virtually no effective therapeutic regimen available for this cancer. Hormonal treatment is the most effective therapy in advanced cancer, however, almost all the patients who undergo hormonal therapy inevitably develop hormone-resistant tumors. Therefore, developing a better therapeutic agent by targeting a specific gene or pathway with well-defined clinical rationale is needed. We chose a target called Fatty acid synthase (FAS) because we found that FAS is strongly expressed in prostate cancer cells but not in normal cells and that inhibiting the FAS expression causes specific tumor cell death. In this project, we plan to test the hypothesis that an active component of Solidago virgaurea specifically inhibits the FAS activity and induces apoptosis in prostate tumor cells. Our specific aims are (i) to elucidate the molecular mechanism of growth inhibitory effect of S. virgaurea by defining the signal pathway and factors responsible for apoptosis, and (ii) to examine the effect of the active component of Solidago virgaurea on tumorigenesis in an animal model.
Language:
English

Title:
Inflammation, Prostate Cancer and Negative Regulation of Androgen Receptor Expression
Document ID:
20090038403
Report #:
AD-A506652
Sales Agency:
Defense Technical Information Center (DTIC) No Copyright
Author(s):
Ko, Soyoung
Published:
20090501
Source:
Texas Univ. Health Science Center (San Antonio, TX United States)
Pages:
25
Contract #:
W81XWH-08-1-0067
Abstract:
My study involved two aspects of androgen receptor (AR) regulation-1) molecular mechanism underlying negative regulation of AR expression and activity, 2) microRNA-mediated regulation of prostate cancer cell proliferation. My data establish that the human AR level is negatively regulated by nuclear factor kB (NF-kB) following its activation by TNF-alpha-induced signaling. I have defined the regulatory region in the human AR promoter that responds to the TNF-alpha-controlled negative transcriptional regulation. I show that TNF-alpha-controlled inhibition of AR expression occurs in androgen-dependent LNCaP human prostate cancer cells, but not in the androgen-independent C4-2 human prostate cancer cells. I further show that TNF-alpha treatment caused recruitment of corepressor complexes on negative response region in LNCaP cells, but not in C4-2 cells. To search for the microRNA effect on prostate cancer, scanning of the cancer microRNA array shows that miR-454 is up regulated in androgen-independent C4-2 cells and overexpression of miR-454 enhanced prostate cancer cell proliferation. In addition, Slain1 is identified as a miR-454 target protein using bioinformatics approaches.
Language:
English

Title:
Interfering with DNA Damage Signals: Radiosensitizing Prostate Cancer Using Small Peptides
Document ID:
20090038406
Report #:
AD-A506682
Sales Agency:
Defense Technical Information Center (DTIC) No Copyright
Author(s):
Xu, Bo
Published:
20090501
Source:
Southern Research Inst. (Birmingham, AL United States)
Pages:
61
Contract #:
W81XWH-05-1-0018
Abstract:
The major goal of this project is to identify small inhibitory peptides that can interfere with critical DNA damage responsive pathways in order to develop novel therapeutic agents for prostate cancer radiotherapy. During the grant funding period, we have identified two DNA damage responsive pathway targets that can be explored for radiosensitization. We have demonstrated that small peptides containing SMC1 phosphorylation or NBS1-ATM binding sequences can abrogate optimal DNA damage responses in vitro. Further we have shown that these peptides can decrease prostate tumor cell clonogenic survival after radiation, indicating these peptides function as powerful radiosensitizers. In order to test in vivo radiosensitization activities, we generated a series of tumor homing peptides containing these sequences and proved tumor specific targeting of the peptides. Prostate cancer xenograft models have been explored though limited radiosensitization effects have been observed. In addition to in vitro and in vivo studies, we have also elucidated the mechanistic insights of inhibitory peptides. Completion of this project will have significant impact on developing molecular targeted radiosensitizers for prostate cancer treatment.
Language:
English

Title:
Severe Tissue Trauma Triggers the Autoimmune State Systemic Lupus Erythematosus in the MRL/++ Lupus-Prone Mouse
Document ID:
20090038409
Report #:
AD-A506715
Sales Agency:
Defense Technical Information Center (DTIC) No Copyright
Author(s):
Anam, K Amare, M Naik, S Szabo, K A Davis, T A
Published:
20090101
Source:
Naval Medical Research Center (Silver Spring, MD United States)
Pages:
15
Contract #:
None
Abstract:
Tissue damage associated with a severe injury can result in profound inflammatory responses that may trigger autoimmune development in lupus-prone individuals. In this study, we investigated the role of a large full-thickness cutaneous bum injury on the early onset of autoimmune disease in lupus-prone MRL/++ mice. MRL/++ mice (chronic model) exhibit autoimmune symptoms at 70 weeks of age, whereas MRL/-Fas1pr mice (acute model) develop autoimmune disease in 1722 weeks due to a lymphoproliferative mutation. Autoimmune disease developed in MRL/++ mice (4-15 weeks post injury) is manifested by skin lesions, vasculitis, epidermal ulcers, cellular infiltration, splenomegaly, lymphadenopathy, hypergammaglobulinemia, elevated autoantibodies and renal pathologies including proteinuria, glomerulonephritis and immune complex deposition; complications that contribute to reduced survival. Transcription studies of wound margin tissue show a correlation between the pathogenic effects of dysregulated IL-1beta p, IL-6, TNF-alpha and PGE2 synthesis during early wound healing and early onset of autoimmune disease. Interestingly, MRL/++ mice with healed wounds (30-40 days post burn) strongly rejected skin isografts. Conversely, skin isografts transplanted onto naive age-matched MRL/++ littermates achieved long-term survival. Collectively, these findings suggest that traumatic injury exacerbates inflammatory skin disease and severe multi-organ pathogenesis in lupus-prone mice.
Language:
English

Title:
Summary: Disabled Submarine Heat Stress Conference
Document ID:
20090038414
Report #:
AD-A506748, NSMRL/50704/MR-2009-1272
Sales Agency:
Defense Technical Information Center (DTIC) No Copyright
Author(s):
Horn, Wayne G
Published:
20090911
Source:
Naval Submarine Medical Research Lab. (Groton, CT United States)
Pages:
14
Contract #:
None
Abstract:
This document summarizes the Disabled Submarine Heat Stress Conference that was held at the Naval Submarine Medical Research Laboratory, Groton, Connecticut, on 22 June 2004. In the discussion of heat stress measurement, the consensus of the panel was that standard wet globe bulb temperature devices were not needed in DISSUB conditions, since radiation (no solar load) was not a significant factor. In DISSUB conditions only two factors need determination: ambient heat and humidity. These parameters can be measured by several methods: temperature by dry bulb thermometer and humidity using either a sling psychrometer or a portable battery-powered electronic device providing a direct readout of measurements. Determination of safe-to-stay, when-to-escape conditions was discussed at length. Dr. Sawka produced a chart of temperature/humidity conditions that he recommended for use in DISSUB conditions. This chart, which graphs wet and dry bulb temperatures, sets forth effective temperature zones of comfort, discomfort, and temperature regulation failure. In DISSUB scenarios, cognition and hypotension are the most critical factors relevant to heat stress assessment and physiological functioning. Of the two, hypotension is most likely the first affected in hot DISSUB conditions. The consensus of the panel was that 1 liter of water per day was the minimal requirement but that in hot conditions up to 4 liters or more of water per day might be required for optimal hydration. As a heat stress mitigating action, limb immersion in cool or even ambient temperature water may provide substantial heat stress relief in terms of both providing comfort and reducing core temperature. The development of hypotension or confusion in a DISSUB crew member may have causes other than dehydration that deserve investigation or consideration. Principal components of heat stress casualty treatment in DISSUB scenarios include delivery of fluids, orally or intravenously, and reducing body heat.
Language:
English
Notes:
Summary of the Disabled Submarine Heat Stress Conference held at the Naval Submarine Medical Research Laboratory, Groton, CT on 22 Jun 2004. The original document contains color images

Title:
Understanding the Mechanisms Through Which Matrix Metalloproteinases (MMPs) Contribute to Breast Cancer-Associated Osteolytic Lesions
Document ID:
20090038418
Report #:
AD-A506755
Sales Agency:
Defense Technical Information Center (DTIC) No Copyright
Author(s):
Thiolloy, Sophie
Published:
20090301
Source:
Vanderbilt Univ. (Nashville, TN United States)
Pages:
83
Contract #:
W81XWH-06-1-0320
Abstract:
Bone metastasis is a common event during breast cancer (BC) progression. Matrix Metalloproteinases (MMPs) are often overexpressed in BC and play an important role in tumor progression. Metastatic BC is primarly osteolytic and we hypothesize that specific host derived MMPs contribute to the growth and development of osteolytic lesions. In an intratibial model that recapitulates breast induced osteolysis, we demonstrated that host MMP-2 and MMP-7 are required for mammary tumor growth in the bone and the development of osteolytic lesions. However MMP-9 does not affect tumor growth and bone resorption in our model of mammary tumor-associated bone lesions. Osteoclast-derived MMP-7 mediates its effect through the processing of RANKL into its soluble form which increases osteoclast precursor cell recruitment and activation. Osteoblast-derived MMP-2 impacts mammary tumor survival in the bone microenvironment by controlling levels of active TGF-beta via the processing of its latency protein, LTBP-3, novel substrate for MMP-2. In conclusion, drugs targeting specifically MMP-2 and MMP-7 could be used in combination with currently used therapies to improve treatment of BC-associated with osteolytic lesions.
Language:
English

Title:
Compact Dielectric Wall Accelerator Development For Intensity Modulated Proton Therapy and Homeland Security Applications.
Document ID:
20090038794
Report #:
PB2009-115583, LLNL-CONF-414222
Sales Agency:
National Technical Information Service (NTIS) No Copyright
Author(s):
Chen, Y. J. Caporaso, G. J. Guethlein, G. Sampayan, S. Akana, G.
Published:
20090625
Source:
Lawrence Livermore National Lab. (Livermore, CA United States) TomoTherapy, Inc. (Madison, WI, United States) Compact Particle Acceleration Corp. (Madison, WI, United States)
Pages:
20
Contract #:
None
Abstract:
Compact dielectric wall (DWA) accelerator technology is being developed at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory. The DWA accelerator uses fast switched high voltage transmission lines to generate pulsed electric fields on the inside of a high gradient insulating (HGI) acceleration tube. Its high electric field gradients are achieved by the use of alternating insulators and conductors and short pulse times. The DWA concept can be applied to accelerate charge particle beams with any charge to mass ratio and energy. Based on the DWA system, a novel compact proton therapy accelerator is being developed. This proton therapy system will produce individual pulses that can be varied in intensity, energy and spot width. The system will be capable of being sited in a conventional linac vault and provide intensity modulated rotational therapy. The status of the developmental new technologies that make the compact system possible will be reviewed. These include, high gradient vacuum insulators, solid dielectric materials, SiC photoconductive switches and compact proton sources.
Language:
English
Notes:
Prepared in cooperation with TomoTherapy, Inc., Madison, WI. and Compact Particle Acceleration Corp., Madison, WI. Sponsored by Department of Energy, Washington, DC. 10th International Conference on Applications of Nuclear Techniques Crete 13-20 Jun. 2009

52-03 PHYSIOLOGICAL FACTORS
Nov 22, 2009 -- Additions to the NASA scientific and technical information knowledge base

52-04 BIOLOGICAL RADIATION EFFECTS
Nov 22, 2009 -- Additions to the NASA scientific and technical information knowledge base

53-01 PSYCHOLOGICAL FACTORS
Nov 22, 2009 -- Additions to the NASA scientific and technical information knowledge base

54-02 CREW SAFETY AND PROTECTIVE CLOTHING
Nov 22, 2009 -- Additions to the NASA scientific and technical information knowledge base

Title:
Use of DSC and DMA to Study Rubber Crystallization as a Possible Cause for a Tear in a Neoprene Glove Used in a Space Shuttle Pressurized Astronaut Suit
Document ID:
20090038652
Report #:
M09-0749
Available Online:
http://hdl.handle.net/2060/20090038652
Sales Agency:
CASI Hardcopy A03 No Copyright
Author(s):
Wingard, Doug (NASA Marshall Space Flight Center)
Published:
20090921
Source:
NASA Marshall Space Flight Center (Huntsville, AL, United States)
Pages:
24
Contract #:
None
Abstract:
The Advanced Crew Escape Suit (ACES) is a pressurized suit normally worn by astronauts during launch and landing phases of Space Shuttle operations. In 2008, a large tear (0.5 -1 in. long, between the pinky and ring finger) in the ACES left-hand glove made of neoprene latex rubber was found during training for Shuttle flight STS-124. An investigation to help determine the cause(s) of the glove tear was headed by the NASA Johnson Space Center (JSC) in Houston, Texas. Efforts at JSC to reproduce the actual glove tear pattern by cutting/tearing or rupturing were unsuccessful. Chemical and material property data from JSC such as GC-MS, FTIR, DSC and TGA mostly showed little differences between samples from the torn and control gloves. One possible cause for the glove tear could be a wedding ring/band worn by a male astronaut. Even with a smooth edge, such a ring could scratch the material and initiate the tear observed in the left-hand glove. A decision was later made by JSC to not allow the wearing of such a ring during training or actual flight. Another possible cause for the ACES glove tear is crystallinity induced by strain in the neoprene rubber over a long period of time and use. Neoprene is one several elastomeric materials known to be susceptible to crystallization, and such a process is accelerated with exposure of the material to cold temperatures plus strain. When the temperature is lowered below room temperature, researchers have shown that neoprene crystallization may be maintained at temperatures as high as 45-50 F, with a maximum crystallization rate near 20-25 F (1). A convenient conditioning temperature for inducing neoprene crystallization is a typical freezer that is held near 0 F. For work at the NASA Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC), samples were cut from several areas/locations (pinky/ring finger crotch, index finger and palm) on each of two pairs of unstrained ACES gloves for DSC and DMA thermal analysis testing. The samples were conditioned in a freezer for various times up to about 14 days. Some rectangular conditioned samples were unstrained, while most were subjected to strains up to 250% with the aid of two slotted aluminum blocks and two aluminum clamps per sample. Trends were observed to correlate DSC data (heat of fusion) and DMA data (linear CTE and stress for iso-strain testing) with: (a) sample location on each glove; and (b) level of strain during conditioning. Control samples cut as is from each glove location were also tested by DSC and DMA.
Language:
English
Notes:
2009 North American Thermal Analysis Society (NATAS) Conference Lubbock, TX 21-23 Sept. 2009

54-03 HUMAN ENGINEERING
Nov 22, 2009 -- Additions to the NASA scientific and technical information knowledge base

Title:
Spacesuit Cooling on the Moon and Mars
Document ID:
20090038609
Report #:
ARC-E-DAA-TN455
Sales Agency:
Other Sources No Copyright
Author(s):
Jones, Harry W. (NASA Ames Research Center)
Published:
20090712
Source:
NASA Ames Research Center (Moffett Field, CA, United States)
Pages:
--
Contract #:
None
Abstract:
NASA is planning to return to the moon and then explore Mars. A permanent base at the south pole of the moon will be the test bed for Mars. At the moon base, two crewmembers are expected to conduct Extravehicular Activity (EVA) six days every week. Current spacesuits are cooled by the sublimation of water ice into vacuum. A single 7 hour EVA near the lunar equator in daylight can expend up to 5 kilograms of water. Because of the high cost of transporting spacesuit cooling water to the moon, the water for one EVA could cost hundreds of thousands of dollars. The lunar south pole and Mars have low surface temperatures that make cooling much easier than at the lunar equator. Alternate cooling methods and keeping to cool environments can reduce or eliminate the loss of water for spacesuit cooling. If cooling water is not needed, a recycling life support system can provide all the required crew water and oxygen without transporting additional water from Earth.
Language:
English
Notes:
International Conference on Environmental Systems Savannah, G 12-16 Jul. 2009

Title:
A Combination of Traditional and Novel Methods Used to Evaluate the Impact of an EVA Glove on Hand Performance
Document ID:
20090038724
Report #:
JSC-CN-19136
Sales Agency:
Other Sources Copyright
Author(s):
Rajulu, Sudhakar (NASA Johnson Space Center) Benson, Elizabeth (MEI Technologies, Inc.) England, Scott (MEI Technologies, Inc.) Mesloh, Miranda (Lockheed Martin Corp.) Thompson, Shelby (Lockheed Martin Corp.)
Published:
20090101
Source:
NASA Johnson Space Center (Houston, TX, United States)
Pages:
1
Contract #:
None
Abstract:
The gloved hand is an astronaut s primary means of interacting with the environment, so performance on an EVA is strongly impacted by any restrictions imposed by the glove. As a result, these restrictions have been the subject of study for decades. However, previous studies have generally been unsuccessful in quantifying glove mobility and tactility. Instead, studies have tended to focus on the dexterity, strength and functional performance of the gloved hand. Therefore, it has been difficult to judge the impact of each type of restriction on the glove s overall capability. The lack of basic information on glove mobility in particular, is related to the difficulty in instrumenting a gloved hand to allow an accurate evaluation. However, the current study aims at developing novel technological capabilities to provide metrics for mobility and tactility that can be used to assess the performance of a glove in a way that could enable designers and engineers to improve upon their current designs. A series of evaluations were performed in ungloved, unpressurized and pressurized (4.3 psi) conditions, to allow a comparison across pressures and to the baseline barehanded condition. In addition, a subset of the testing was also performed with the Thermal Micrometeoroid Garment (TMG) removed. This test case in particular provided some interesting insight into how much of an impact the TMG has on gloved mobility -- in some cases, as much as pressurization of the glove. Previous rule-of-thumb estimates had assumed that the TMG would have a much lower impact on mobility, while these results suggest that an improvement in the TMG could actually have a significant impact on glove performance. Similarly, tactility testing illustrated the impact of glove pressurization on tactility and provided insight on the design of interfaces to the glove. The metrics described in this paper have been used to benchmark the Phase VI EVA glove and to develop requirements for the next generation glove for the Constellation program.
Language:
English
Notes:
International Conference on Environmental Systems Barcelona 11-15 Jul. 2010

Title:
Lunar Outpost Life Support Architecture Study Based on a High Mobility Exploration Scenario
Document ID:
20090038753
Report #:
JSC-CN-19187
Sales Agency:
Other Sources Copyright
Author(s):
Lange, Kevin E. (Jacobs Technologies Engineering Science Contract Group) Anderson, Molly S. (NASA Johnson Space Center)
Published:
20090101
Source:
NASA Johnson Space Center (Houston, TX, United States)
Pages:
1
Contract #:
None
Abstract:
As scenarios for lunar surface exploration and habitation continue to evolve within NASA s Constellation program, so must studies of optimal life support system architectures and technologies. This paper presents results of a life support architecture study based on a 2009 NASA scenario known as Scenario 12. Scenario 12 represents a consolidation of ideas from earlier NASA scenarios and includes an outpost near the Lunar South Pole comprised of three larger fixed surface elements and four attached pressurized rovers. The scenario places a high emphasis on surface mobility, with planning assuming that all four crewmembers spend roughly 50% of the time away from the outpost on 3-14 day excursions in two of the pressurized rovers. Some of the larger elements can also be mobilized for longer duration excursions. This emphasis on mobility poses a significant challenge for a regenerative life support system in terms of cost-effective waste collection and resource recovery across multiple elements, including rovers with very constrained infrastructure resources. The current study considers pressurized rovers as part of a distributed outpost life support architecture in both stand-alone and integrated configurations. A range of architectures are examined reflecting different levels of closure and distributed functionality. Different lander propellant scavenging options are also considered involving either initial conversion of residual oxygen and hydrogen propellants to water or initial direct oxygen scavenging. Monte Carlo simulations are used to assess the sensitivity of results to volatile high-impact mission variables, including the quantity of residual lander propellants available for scavenging, the fraction of crew time away from the outpost on excursions, total extravehicular activity hours, and habitat leakage. Architectures are evaluated by estimating surpluses or deficits of water and oxygen per 180-day mission and differences in fixed and 10-year-total equivalent system mass (ESM) relative to a reference case. Results are presented based on current assumptions for Scenario 12 and based on Monte Carlo simulations with assumed probability distributions for the high-impact mission variables. The calculated probability of no water or oxygen resupply from Monte Carlo simulations provides a quantitative measure of system robustness that can be used for cost/benefit analyses to identify leading architecture candidates. Areas of technology improvement that are likely to have a significant impact are also suggested.
Language:
English
Notes:
International Conference on Environmental Systems Barcelona 11-15 Jul. 2010

54-04 MAN-MACHINE SYSTEMS
Nov 22, 2009 -- Additions to the NASA scientific and technical information knowledge base

No records are available for this topic on this date.

54-05 BIOINSTRUMENTATION
Nov 22, 2009 -- Additions to the NASA scientific and technical information knowledge base

Title:
Mobile ID Device Best Practice Recommendation Version 1.0
Document ID:
20090038815
Report #:
PB2009-115015, NIST/SP-500-280
Sales Agency:
CASI Hardcopy A04 No Copyright
Author(s):
Orandi, S. McCabe, R. M.
Published:
20090801
Source:
National Inst. of Standards and Technology (Gaithersburg, MD, United States)
Pages:
55
Contract #:
None
Abstract:
The term mobile identification and Mobile ID devices can conjure up several different interpretations. In the strictest sense, it may consit of an un-tethered device used to capture one or more biometric samples from a subject. The Captured data sample(s) may then be compared to other samples contained in a database resident on that device. The data may also be transmitted to and compared to samples in a central repository or an onboard computer repository located in a nearby vehicle. Such vehicles may include jurisdictional police cars, border patrol vehicles, military combat vehicles such as Humvees, etc. This scenario allows for comparison to larger databases than otherwise available on a handheld device or in a nearby vehicle. additionally, a device physically attached to a computer located in a vehicle that acquires biometric samples may also be considered as a Mobile ID device.
Language:
English

54-06 ROBOTICS
Nov 22, 2009 -- Additions to the NASA scientific and technical information knowledge base

Title:
Advanced Avionics and Processor Systems for Space and Lunar Exploration
Document ID:
20090037678
Report #:
M09-0738, M09-0761
Available Online:
http://hdl.handle.net/2060/20090037678
Sales Agency:
CASI Hardcopy A03 Copyright
Author(s):
Keys, Andrew S. (NASA Marshall Space Flight Center) Adams, James H. (NASA Marshall Space Flight Center) Ray, Robert E. (Jacobs Engineering Group, Inc.) Johnson, Michael A. (NASA Goddard Space Flight Center) Cressler, John D. (Georgia Inst. of Tech.)
Published:
20090914
Source:
NASA Marshall Space Flight Center (Huntsville, AL, United States)
Pages:
40
Contract #:
None
Abstract:
NASA's newly named Advanced Avionics and Processor Systems (AAPS) project, formerly known as the Radiation Hardened Electronics for Space Environments (RHESE) project, endeavors to mature and develop the avionic and processor technologies required to fulfill NASA's goals for future space and lunar exploration. Over the past year, multiple advancements have been made within each of the individual AAPS technology development tasks that will facilitate the success of the Constellation program elements. This paper provides a brief review of the project's recent technology advancements, discusses their application to Constellation projects, and addresses the project's plans for the coming year.
Language:
English
Notes:
AIAA SPACE 2009 Conference and Exposition Pasadena, CA 14-17 Sep. 2009

55-01 EXTRATERRESTRIAL LIFE
Nov 22, 2009 -- Additions to the NASA scientific and technical information knowledge base

No records are available for this topic on this date.