scholarly journals Bioelectromagnetic Platform for Cell, Tissue, and In Vivo Stimulation

Biosensors ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 11 (8) ◽  
pp. 248
Author(s):  
Ryan C. Ashbaugh ◽  
Lalita Udpa ◽  
Ron R. Israeli ◽  
Assaf A. Gilad ◽  
Galit Pelled
Keyword(s):  
Electromagnetic Fields ◽  
Delivery System ◽  
Low Cost ◽  
Animal Experiments ◽  
Cellular Activity ◽  
Precise Control ◽  
Cell Tissue ◽  
Freely Behaving ◽  
Rapid Switching

Magnetogenetics is a new field that utilizes electromagnetic fields to remotely control cellular activity. In addition to the development of the biological genetic tools, this approach requires designing hardware with a specific set of demands for the electromagnets used to provide the desired stimulation for electrophysiology and imaging experiments. Here, we present a universal stimulus delivery system comprising four magnet designs compatible with electrophysiology, fluorescence and luminescence imaging, microscopy, and freely behaving animal experiments. The overall system includes a low-cost stimulation controller that enables rapid switching between active and sham stimulation trials as well as precise control of stimulation delivery thereby enabling repeatable and reproducible measurements.

scholarly journals Bioelectromagnetic platform for stimulation

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ryan C Ashbaugh ◽  
Lalita Udpa ◽  
Ron R Israeli ◽  
Assaf A Gilad ◽  
Galit Pelled
Keyword(s):  
Electromagnetic Fields ◽  
Delivery System ◽  
Low Cost ◽  
Animal Experiments ◽  
Cellular Activity ◽  
Genetic Tools ◽  
Precise Control ◽  
Sham Stimulation ◽  
Freely Behaving ◽  
Rapid Switching

Magnetogenetics is a new field that utilizes electromagnetic fields to remotely control cellular activity. In addition to the development of the biological genetic tools, this approach requires designing hardware with a specific set of demands for the electromagnets used to provide the desired stimulation for electrophysiology and imaging experiments. Here we present a universal stimulus delivery system comprised of four magnet designs compatible with electrophysiology, fluorescence and luminescence imaging, microscopy, and freely behaving animal experiments. The overall system includes a low-cost stimulation controller which enables rapid switching between active and sham stimulation trials as well as precise control of stimulation delivery.

scholarly journals GuPPy, a Python toolbox for the analysis of fiber photometry data

2021 ◽  
Vol 11 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Venus N. Sherathiya ◽  
Michael D. Schaid ◽  
Jillian L. Seiler ◽  
Gabriela C. Lopez ◽  
Talia N. Lerner
Keyword(s):  
Open Source ◽  
User Interfaces ◽  
Low Cost ◽  
Ease Of Use ◽  
Analysis Tool ◽  
Freely Behaving ◽  
Freely Moving ◽  
Computing Platforms ◽  
Graphic User Interfaces

AbstractFiber photometry (FP) is an adaptable method for recording in vivo neural activity in freely behaving animals. It has become a popular tool in neuroscience due to its ease of use, low cost, the ability to combine FP with freely moving behavior, among other advantages. However, analysis of FP data can be challenging for new users, especially those with a limited programming background. Here, we present Guided Photometry Analysis in Python (GuPPy), a free and open-source FP analysis tool. GuPPy is designed to operate across computing platforms and can accept data from a variety of FP data acquisition systems. The program presents users with a set of graphic user interfaces (GUIs) to load data and provide input parameters. Graphs are produced that can be easily exported for integration into scientific figures. As an open-source tool, GuPPy can be modified by users with knowledge of Python to fit their specific needs.

scholarly journals Concept for the controlled plane wave exposure for animal experiments using a parabolic reflector

2005 ◽  
Vol 3 ◽  
pp. 233-238
Author(s):  
S. Tejero ◽  
S. Schelkshorn ◽  
J. Detlefsen
Keyword(s):  
Plane Wave ◽  
Low Cost ◽  
Animal Experiments ◽  
Primary Source ◽  
Cost Effective ◽  
Exposure Dose ◽  
Wave Exposure ◽  
Power Efficient ◽  
Parabolic Reflector

Abstract. In this paper a low-cost concept for the controlled RF plane wave exposure for in vivo experiments is presented. The exposure setup is based on the use of a parabolic reflector to convert the incident spherical wavefront emanating from the primary source into a plane wave. The employed paraboloid is a common prime focus paraboloid used in satellite-TV links. The main problems of the focussed approach are identified and a solution based on a defocussed system is introduced. It results in a compact, cost-effective and still power-efficient setup for the RF exposure at microwave frequencies. Simulation results show a very good performance of the concept achieving a quasi-plane wave incident on the animals with minimum variations of the exposure dose.

scholarly journals Colocalized, Bidirectional Optogenetic Modulations in Freely Behaving Animals with a Wireless Dual-Color Optoelectronic Probe

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Xing Sheng
Keyword(s):  
Brain Research ◽  
Preference Test ◽  
Neural Activation ◽  
Light Emitting ◽  
Precise Control ◽  
Neural Activities ◽  
Dual Color ◽  
Freely Behaving ◽  
Freely Moving

The precise control of neural activities at both cellular and circuit levels reveals significant impacts on the fundamental neuroscience explorations and medical applications. Optogenetic methods provide efficient cell-specific modulations, but state-of-the-art technologies lack the ability of simultaneous neural activation and inhibition in a same brain region of freely moving animals. Here we report bidirectional neuronal activity manipulation accomplished by a wireless, dual-color optogenetic probe in synergy with the co-expression of two spectrally distinct opsins (ChrimsonR and stGtACR2) in a rodent model. Based on vertically assembled, thin-film microscale light-emitting diodes (micro-LEDs) on flexible substrates, the dual-color probe shows colocalized red and blue emissions and allows chronic in vivo operations with desirable biocompatibilities. In addition, we discover that neurons co-expressing the two opsins can be deterministically evoked or silenced under red or blue irradiations. Implanted in behaving mice, the wirelessly controlled dual-color probe interferes with dopaminergic neurons in the ventral tegmental area (VTA), increasing or decreasing dopamine levels with colocalized red and blue stimulations. Such bidirectional regulations further generate rewarding and aversive behaviors of freely moving animals in a place preference test. The technologies established here will create numerous opportunities and profound implications for the brain research.

scholarly journals Embryonated Eggs as an Alternative Infection Model To Investigate Aspergillus fumigatus Virulence

2010 ◽  
Vol 78 (7) ◽  
pp. 2995-3006 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ilse D. Jacobsen ◽  
Katharina Große ◽  
Silvia Slesiona ◽  
Bernhard Hube ◽  
Angela Berndt ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Low Cost ◽  
Animal Experiments ◽  
Infection Model ◽  
Egg Survival ◽  
Chemokine Production ◽  
Rapid Construction ◽  
Infection Models ◽  
Invertebrate Models

ABSTRACT Infection models are essential tools for studying microbial pathogenesis. Murine models are considered the “gold standard” for studying in vivo infections caused by Aspergillus species, such as A. fumigatus. Recently developed molecular protocols allow rapid construction of high numbers of fungal deletion mutants, and alternative infection models based on cell culture or invertebrates are widely used for screening such mutants to reduce the number of rodents in animal experiments. To bridge the gap between invertebrate models and mice, we have developed an alternative, low-cost, and easy-to-use infection model for Aspergillus species based on embryonated eggs. The outcome of infections in the egg model is dose and age dependent and highly reproducible. We show that the age of the embryos affects the susceptibility to A. fumigatus and that increased resistance coincides with altered chemokine production after infection. The progress of disease in the model can be monitored by using egg survival and histology. Based on pathological analyses, we hypothesize that invasion of embryonic membranes and blood vessels leads to embryonic death. Defined deletion mutant strains previously shown to be fully virulent or partially or strongly attenuated in a mouse model of bronchopulmonary aspergillosis showed comparable degrees of attenuation in the egg model. Addition of nutrients restored the reduced virulence of a mutant lacking a biosynthetic gene, and variations of the infectious route can be used to further analyze the role of distinct genes in our model. Our results suggest that embryonated eggs can be a very useful alternative infection model to study A. fumigatus virulence and pathogenicity.

scholarly journals A compact head-mounted endoscope for in vivo calcium imaging in freely-behaving mice

2018 ◽  
Author(s):  
Alexander D. Jacob ◽  
Adam I. Ramsaran ◽  
Andrew J. Mocle ◽  
Lina M. Tran ◽  
Chen Yan ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Open Source ◽  
Calcium Imaging ◽  
Low Cost ◽  
Population Level ◽  
Calcium Transients ◽  
Promising Tool ◽  
Calcium Indicator ◽  
Neuroscience Research ◽  
Freely Behaving

AbstractMiniaturized fluorescence microscopes for imaging calcium transients are a promising tool for investigating the relationship between behaviour and population-level neuronal activity in rodents. However, commercially available miniature microscopes may be costly, and, because they are closed-source, may not be easily modified based on particular experimental requirements. Here, we describe how to build and use a low-cost compact head-mounted endoscope (CHEndoscope) system for in vivo calcium imaging. The CHEndoscope uses an implanted gradient index (GRIN) lens along with the genetically encoded calcium indicator GCaMP6 to image calcium transients from hundreds of neurons simultaneously in awake behaving mice. This system is affordable, open-source, and flexible, permitting modification depending on the particular experiment. This Unit describes in detail the assembly, surgical implantation, data collection, and processing of calcium signals using the CHEndoscope system. The aim of this open framework model is to provide an accessible set of miniaturized calcium imaging tools for the neuroscience research community.Significance StatementThe ability to image calcium transients in awake, behaving rodents using miniature microscopes opens exciting and novel avenues for gaining insights into how information is encoded in neural circuits. The development of this tool has already had a significant impact on neuroscience research. The cost of commercial systems, however, may be prohibitive for many laboratories. Here, we describe an affordable, open-source compact head-mounted endoscope (CHEndoscope) system for performing in vivo calcium imaging in freely-behaving mice. CHEndoscopes may be manufactured by individual laboratories at relatively minor cost. Our hope is that greater availability of affordable, open-source tools (such as the one presented here) will accelerate the pace of discoveries in systems neuroscience.

scholarly journals Enhancement of Antimicrobial and Antiproliferative Activities of Standardized Frankincense Extract Using Optimized Self-Nanoemulsifying Delivery System

2021 ◽  
Vol 89 (3) ◽  
pp. 36
Author(s):  
Shereen S. El-Mancy ◽  
Alaadin E. El-Haddad ◽  
Walaa A. Alshareef ◽  
Amr M. Saadeldeen ◽  
Soad Z. El-Emam ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Lung Cancer ◽  
Delivery System ◽  
Low Cost ◽  
In Vivo Studies ◽  
Major Constituent ◽  
Lattice Design ◽  
Natural Resin ◽  
Antiproliferative Activities

Boswellic acids (BAs) are the main bioactive compounds of frankincense, a natural resin obtained from the genus Boswellia. This study aimed to develop a self-nanoemulsifying delivery system (SNEDS) to improve the antimicrobial and antiproliferative activities of standardized frankincense extract (Fr-extract). Fr-extract was standardized, and BA content was quantified using the developed HPLC-UV method. Screening studies of excipients followed by formula optimization using a mixture simplex lattice design was employed. The optimized Fr-SENDS formulation was characterized. Furthermore, microbiological and antiproliferative assessments of the standardized Fr-extract and Fr-SNEDS were evaluated. Quantification demonstrated that the major constituent is 11-keto-boswellic acid (KBA) (16.25%) among BA content (44.96%). The optimized Fr-SENDS (composed of 5% CapryolTM 90, 48.7% Gelucire® 44/14 and 46.3% ethanol) showed spherical nanosized dispersions with DS, PDI, and zeta potential of 17.9 nm, 0.2, and −14.5 mV, respectively. Fr-SNEDS exhibited lower MIC and MBC values compared with Fr-extract against pathogens conjugated with lung cancer and was comparable to reference antimicrobials. Fr-SNEDS showed superior antiproliferative activity over Fr-extract, with IC50 values of 20.49 and 109.5 μg mL−1, respectively. In conclusion, the optimized Fr-SNEDS could be easily developed and manufactured at a low cost and the in vitro results support its use as a potential adjuvant oral therapy for lung cancer. Further in vivo studies could be continued to assess the therapeutic efficiency of the prepared system.

scholarly journals Open-Source Thermometer, Temperature Controller, and Light Meter for Use in Animal Facilities and During Experiments

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Andrey Andreev ◽  
Pavee Vasnarungruengkul ◽  
Daniel A Wagenaar ◽  
David A Prober
Keyword(s):  
Open Source ◽  
Animal Experiments ◽  
Heating System ◽  
Light Sheet ◽  
Raspberry Pi ◽  
Behavioral Experiments ◽  
Experimental Conditions ◽  
Precise Control ◽  
Software Skills

Experiments with biological samples require precise control of environmental conditions. In our work we use zebrafish (Danio rerio) to understand the neurobiology of sleep, which requires precise control of temperature and lighting. Like many labs, lighting and temperature in the animal facility are centrally controlled in the building. During behavioral experiments and microscopy sessions, we use custom-built heating systems and perform occasional manual checks of conditions. However, without a system to precisely record conditions, gradual changes in temperature can go unnoticed for a long time, and temporary failures may be missed entirely. Here we present the design and characterization of affordable open-source tools to record temperature and light conditions during animal experiments using an Arduino microcontroller or a Raspberry Pi compact computer. The waterproof temperature sensor has high stability over 50 days of recording and is precise to 0.1°C. The Arduino device can be used through a common serial port interface for which we present code in Python and MATLAB. The Raspberry Pi version can be accessed through a web interface, for which we provide an installation guide. We use the device to record and review temperature and lighting conditions in two zebrafish animal facilities. We use our platform to add a water heating system to maintain temperature at 28°C during in vivo light-sheet imaging of larval zebrafish. We show that a change in temperature from 28°C to 32°C affects resting heart rate of the animal, highlighting the importance of maintaining and recording conditions. The protocols presented here do not require advanced engineering, fabrication, or software skills, and provide an approach to accurately record and report experimental conditions.

scholarly journals GuPPy, a Python toolbox for the analysis of fiber photometry data

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Venus N Sherathiya ◽  
Michael D Schaid ◽  
Jillian L Seiler ◽  
Gabriela C Lopez ◽  
Talia Lerner
Keyword(s):  
Open Source ◽  
User Interfaces ◽  
Low Cost ◽  
Ease Of Use ◽  
Analysis Tool ◽  
Development Environment ◽  
Freely Behaving ◽  
Freely Moving ◽  
Graphic User Interfaces

Fiber photometry (FP) is an adaptable method for recording in vivo neural activity in freely behaving animals. It has become a popular tool in neuroscience due to its ease of use, low cost, the ability to combine FP with freely moving behavior, among other advantages. However, analysis of FP data can be a challenge for new users, especially those with a limited programming background. Here, we present Guided Photometry Analysis in Python (GuPPy), a free and open-source FP analysis tool. GuPPy is provided as a Jupyter notebook, a well-commented interactive development environment (IDE) designed to operate across platforms. GuPPy presents the user with a set of graphic user interfaces (GUIs) to load data and provide input parameters. Graphs produced by GuPPy can be exported into various image formats for integration into scientific figures. As an open-source tool, GuPPy can be modified by users with knowledge of Python to fit their specific needs.

A technique for protecting delicate specimens during processing

1989 ◽  
Vol 47 ◽  
pp. 982-983
Author(s):  
R.J. Mount ◽  
R.V. Harrison
Keyword(s):  
Basilar Membrane ◽  
Low Cost ◽  
Organ Of Corti ◽  
Region Of Interest ◽  
Sensory Epithelium ◽  
Physical Damage ◽  
Air Drying ◽  
Specimen Handling ◽  
Two Component

The sensory end organ of the ear, the organ of Corti, rests on a thin basilar membrane which lies between the bone of the central modiolus and the bony wall of the cochlea. In vivo, the organ of Corti is protected by the bony wall which totally surrounds it. In order to examine the sensory epithelium by scanning electron microscopy it is necessary to dissect away the protective bone and expose the region of interest (Fig. 1). This leaves the fragile organ of Corti susceptible to physical damage during subsequent handling. In our laboratory cochlear specimens, after dissection, are routinely prepared by the O-T- O-T-O technique, critical point dried and then lightly sputter coated with gold. This processing involves considerable specimen handling including several hours on a rotator during which the organ of Corti is at risk of being physically damaged. The following procedure uses low cost, readily available materials to hold the specimen during processing ,preventing physical damage while allowing an unhindered exchange of fluids.Following fixation, the cochlea is dehydrated to 70% ethanol then dissected under ethanol to prevent air drying. The holder is prepared by punching a hole in the flexible snap cap of a Wheaton vial with a paper hole punch. A small amount of two component epoxy putty is well mixed then pushed through the hole in the cap. The putty on the inner cap is formed into a “cup” to hold the specimen (Fig. 2), the putty on the outside is smoothed into a “button” to give good attachment even when the cap is flexed during handling (Fig. 3). The cap is submerged in the 70% ethanol, the bone at the base of the cochlea is seated into the cup and the sides of the cup squeezed with forceps to grip it (Fig.4). Several types of epoxy putty have been tried, most are either soluble in ethanol to some degree or do not set in ethanol. The only putty we find successful is “DUROtm MASTERMENDtm Epoxy Extra Strength Ribbon” (Loctite Corp., Cleveland, Ohio), this is a blue and yellow ribbon which is kneaded to form a green putty, it is available at many hardware stores.

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