Week 8

Between weeks 7 and 8, the MATLAB code was edited in order to identify contrast agents with the measurements 2.1-2.6 microns and 3.X-3.X. During the week 8 lab, the images obtained from the micorscope were ran through this program.  The results of this were interesting.  Although the zeta-sizer identified that the average size was 7 microns, the microscope images show that the a majority of the contrast agent falls in the 2.1-2.6 micron range.  Because of this, the group decided that repeating the experiment will help get more accurate results.

Week 7

Results

The group returned to the lab this week to analyze the contrast agents produced during last week's lab work.  Upon observation, we found that the contrast agents were, on average, 7 microns in diameter, significantly larger than the 1.8 micron average diameter found in the contrast agents produced with 3 washes.  We also found that the new, larger contrast agents displayed a greater amount of echogenicity as compared to the 1.8 micron contrast agents.  Sadly, we also found that the larger contrast agents have a shorter half-life when compared to the smaller agents, indicating that they may be less stable.  

Week 6

This week, the group created the contrast agents in the lab.  This process was completed in a two day span.  The first day was scheduled for the production and autoclaving of the SE61.  During the second day, the group sonicated and washed the solution four (4) times in order to obtain contrast agents of the proper size.  The contrast agents were then analyzed under a microscope and freeze-dried.

Week 5

This week, the group created the lab time sheet.  This sheet outlined the hours and tasks we were going to complete.  The lab takes place over the course of two days, Wednesday May 7th and Thursday May 8th.  The first day involves the prep stages and the second day involves the actual creation of the contrast agents.
 The Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) was also finalized and approved.



Lab Schedule

Week 4

                             Procedure

This week's lab follows the finalization of our standard operating procedure in the Diametric Expansion Ultra-Sound Contrast Agents for the Delivery of Oxygen to Hypoxic Environments. The procedure is as follows in the links below:

Appendix A

Appendix D

                 Lab Procedure Walkthrough

The group attended a procedure walkthrough at Dr. Wheatley's lab for a walkthrough of lab procedure with Lorenzo Albala.  The production of SE61, sonication, wash cycles, and separation of contrast agent was demonstrated.  The instructor clarified lab safety methods to the group,  in particular the use of headphones during sonication.  Finally, the group learned how to operate machinery essential to the project, such as a CL4 sonicator, separation funnel, and autoclave.  This experience led to modification of the procedure for the purposes of the project.

David Brown removing SE61 samples from a liquid nitrogen bath.

Week 3

                  Assignment and Organization

The main focus for this weeks lab session was setting task assignments.  Once these projects were delegated, each member knew what section(s) they were accountable for.  However, this does not prohibit asking for assistance from other group members; this behavior is encouraged.


Along with the task assignments, two important elements were added to the blog: the Biography and Project Timeline.  These pieces were created prior to this week, but they have been recently implemented into the blog.  The goal of the Biography is to help inform anyone reading the blog about the group members ranging from levels of education to personal interests and hobbies.  The Project Timeline will help guide the readers to where the project is heading and when each task will be completed.  It also sets a time goal for the group.

Week 3 Project Data

Project Timeline

Week 2

                                  Proposal

The main focus of this week was project planning.  The group began to work on the project proposal during lab.  The work continued during a group meeting.  The project project proposal progressed to the rough draft version.  The group plans to publish a final draft of the proposal by 4/16/14.  One important part of the proposal was the timeline for the project's conclusion.  The timeline's purpose is to create a schedule so as to keep track of the project's progress.  Each major component of the project has been allocated weeks to complete, with some overlap between components.  The main part of the proposal still in progress is the budget.  While the group is aware of the general expenses, it is currently investigating specific costs that the project will entail.  Also notable is the completion of the group members' biographies.

Week 2 Project Data

Biographies

Project Proposal

Project Timeline