bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Increased susceptibility of spontaneously hypertensive rats to ventricular tachyarrhythmias in early hypertension
Authors: Nguyen Thao P. , Sovari Ali A. , Pezhouman Arash , Iyer Shankar , Cao Hong , Ko Christopher Y. , Bapat Aneesh , Vahdani Nooshin , Ghanim Mostafa , Fishbein Michael C. , Karagueuzian Hrayr S.
Published: January 2016

Key points

Hypertension is a risk factor for sudden cardiac death caused by ventricular tachycardia and fibrillation.

Whether hypertension in its early stage is associated with an increased risk of ventricular tachyarrhythmias is not known.

Based on experiments performed at the cellular and whole heart levels, we show that, even early in chronic hypertension, the hypertrophied and fibrotic ventricles of spontaneously hypertensive rats aged 5 to 6 months have already developed increased stress‐induced arrhythmogenicity, and this increased susceptibility to ventricular arrhythmias is primarily a result of tissue remodelling rather than cellular electrophysiological changes.

Our findings highlight the need for early hypertension treatment to minimize myocardial fibrosis, ventricular hypertrophy, and arrhythmias.

Hypertension is a risk factor for sudden cardiac death caused by ventricular tachycardia and fibrillation (VT/VF). We hypothesized that, in early hypertension, the susceptibility to stress‐induced VT/VF increases. We compared the susceptibility of 5‐ to 6‐month‐old male spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) and age/sex‐matched normotensive rats (NR) to VT/VF during challenge with oxidative stress (H2O2; 0.15 mmol l−1). We found that only SHR hearts exhibited left ventricular fibrosis and hypertrophy. H2O2 promoted VT in all 30 SHR but none of the NR hearts. In 33% of SHR cases, focal VT degenerated to VF within 3 s. Simultaneous voltage‐calcium optical mapping of Langendorff‐perfused SHR hearts revealed that H2O2‐induced VT/VF arose spontaneously from focal activations at the base and mid left ventricular epicardium. Microelectrode recording of SHR hearts showed that VT was initiated by early afterdepolarization (EAD)‐mediated triggered activity. However, despite the increased susceptibility of SHR hearts to VT/VF, patch clamped isolated SHR ventricular myocytes developed EADs and triggered activity to the same extent as NR ventricular myocytes, except with larger EAD amplitude. During the early stages of hypertension, when challenged with oxidative stress, SHR hearts showed an increased ventricular arrhythmogenicity that stems primarily from tissue remodelling (hypertrophy, fibrosis) rather than cellular electrophysiological changes. Our findings highlight the need for early hypertension treatment to minimize myocardial fibrosis, ventricular hypertrophy, and arrhythmias.
A quantitative description of tubular system Ca2+ handling in fast‐ and slow‐twitch muscle fibres
Authors: Cully Tanya R. , Edwards Joshua N. , Murphy Robyn M. , Launikonis Bradley S.
Published: January 2016

Key points

Current methods do not allow a quantitative description of Ca2+ movements across the tubular (t‐) system membrane without isolating the membranes from their native skeletal muscle fibre.

Here we present a fluorescence‐based method that allows determination of the t‐system [Ca2+] transients and derivation of t‐system Ca2+ fluxes in mechanically skinned skeletal muscle fibres. Differences in t‐system Ca2+‐handling properties between fast‐ and slow‐twitch fibres from rat muscle are resolved for the first time using this new technique.

The method can be used to study Ca2+ handling of the t‐system and allows direct comparisons of t‐system Ca2+ transients and Ca2+ fluxes between groups of fibres and fibres from different strains of animals.

The tubular (t‐) system of skeletal muscle is an internalization of the plasma membrane that maintains a large Ca2+ gradient and exchanges Ca2+ between the extracellular and intracellular environments. Little is known of the Ca2+‐handling properties of the t‐system as the small Ca2+ fluxes conducted are difficult to resolve with conventional methods. To advance knowledge in this area we calibrated t‐system‐trapped rhod‐5N inside skinned fibres from rat and [Ca2+]t‐sys, allowing confocal measurements of Ca2+‐dependent changes in rhod‐5N fluorescence during rapid changes in the intracellular ionic environment to be converted to [Ca2+] transients in the t‐system ([Ca2+]t‐sys (t)). Furthermore, t‐system Ca2+‐buffering power was determined so that t‐system Ca2+ fluxes could be derived from [Ca2+]t‐sys (t). With this new approach, we show that rapid depletion of sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) Ca2+ induced a robust store‐operated Ca2+ entry (SOCE) in fast‐ and slow‐twitch fibres, reducing [Ca2+]t‐sys to < 0.1 mm. The rapid activation of SOCE upon Ca2+ release was consistent with the presence of STIM1L in both fibre types. Abruptly introducing internal solutions with 1 mm Mg2+ and [Ca2+]cyto (28 nm–1.3 μm) to Ca2+‐depleted fibres generated t‐system Ca2+ uptake rates dependent on [Ca2+]cyto with [Ca2+]t‐sys reaching final plateaus in the millimolar range. For the same [Ca2+]cyto, t‐system Ca2+ fluxes of fast‐twitch fibres were greater than that in slow‐twitch fibres. In addition, simultaneous imaging of t‐system and SR Ca2+ signals indicated that both membrane compartments accumulated Ca2+ at similar rates and that SOCE was activated early during SR Ca2+ depletion.
Enhanced Electromechanical Brake-by-Wire System Using Sliding Mode Controller
Authors: Atia Mostafa R. A. , Haggag Salem A. , Kamal Ahmed M. M.
Published: January 2016

The importance of the brake-by-wire (BBW) system emerged from the fact that it replaces all the conventional hydraulic braking system components with electronic signals between sensors, control modules, and electrically driven braking actuators. This conversion has enormously contributed to the braking system performance in terms of responsiveness, integration with other vehicle subsystems, and an adaptive behavior in different driving circumstances. The aim of this research is investigating the sliding mode control (SMC) strategy to a proposed BBW system. To achieve this aim, BBW system is modeled and validated experimentally. The SMC strategy is applied to the model and validated experimentally. Moreover, this research focuses on compensating for the effect of worn pads on braking performance. The experimental work shows that the developed system model gives matched results with the experimental work. Applying SMC to the model shows a good performance in breaking operation with acceptable error. Applying of the SMC to the test rig shows a good performance with acceptable deviations. In addition, the experiments show that the control strategy is able to compensate the wear in braking pads and keep tracking the braking command.
Vertical-Up Gas Tungsten Arc Welding of Ti6Al4V Alloy and Characterization
Authors: Gupta R. K. , Panicker Paul G. , Paul Vinu , Radhakrishnan G. , Rajesh L. , Rajesh V. , Ramkumar P. , Gopinath Shibu
Published: January 2016

Gas tungsten arc (GTA) welding of Ti alloy Ti6Al4V is carried out in vertical-up direction. Weld parameters for the Ti6Al4V alloy were developed using Ti6Al4V (ELI) alloy filler wire and following two pass welding process. X-ray radiography was carried out to ensure the soundness of the weld. Tensile strength of the weldment was evaluated and microstructure characterization was carried out. It is observed that specimens mostly failed in heat affected zone (HAZ) area toward parent material with occasional failure at the weld. Microhardness mapping and microstructural analysis revealed HAZ as the weaker zone, where dissolution of α and formation of β have initiated. Due to moderate cooling rate at this zone, microstructure remained α–β, whereas weld microstructure is found to have martensitic α′ resulting in an increase in the microhardness. Yield strength (YS) of weldment is found to be more than 90% of parent metal (PM) and also reduction in elongation is noted. Fractography observations of failed specimen away from the weld show mainly ductile failure. Weldment failure fractography shows the presence of dendrite indicating failure near the fusion line.
Probabilistic Performance Assessment of Fiber Optic Leak Detection Systems
Authors: Aljaroudi Alireda , Khan Faisal , Akinturk Ayhan , Haddara Mahmoud
Published: January 2016

Leak detection systems (LDSs) play a major role in enhancing reliability and operability of oil and gas pipelines. They have the functional capabilities to detect, locate, and quantify leaks before they can cause devastating effects to the environment and operation. The performance of LDSs is typically influenced by three different types of failures that may have severe consequences: delayed detection, missed detection, and false detection of a leak. The consequences of these failures lead to extensive financial losses. For example, missed detection leads to oil spills and exposes operating companies to financial risk and destroyed image while false detection results in unnecessary deployment of personnel and equipment. To maintain safety of personnel and the environment and ensure operation continuity, LDSs should be assessed regularly. To fulfill this need, a probabilistic performance assessment scheme based on limit state approach for fiber optic LDS has been developed. The inherent uncertainties associated with leak detection and reporting capabilities are modeled to determine the LDS detection failure probability that combines two failure events: missed detection and delayed detection. Moreover, the probability of false detection is derived in terms of the lowest detectable change, the threshold. These three parameters establish the basis for an overall assessment scheme that can be used to predict the performance of the LDS. The proposed assessment scheme has been applied to a case study to demonstrate its usefulness and feasibility.
Dynamic Numerical Microchannel Evaporator Model to Investigate Parallel Channel Instabilities
Authors: Saenen Tom , Thome John R.
Published: January 2016

A fully dynamic model of a microchannel evaporator is presented. The aim of the model is to study the highly dynamic parallel channel instabilities that occur in these evaporators in more detail. The numerical solver for the model is custom-built and the majority of the paper is focused on detailing the various aspects of this solver. The one-dimensional homogeneous two-phase flow conservation equations are solved to simulate the flow. The full three-dimensional (3D) conduction domain of the evaporator is also dynamically resolved. This allows for the correct simulation of the complex hydraulic and thermal interactions between the microchannels that give rise to the parallel channel instabilities. The model uses state-of-the-art correlations to calculate the frictional pressure losses and heat transfer in the microchannels. In addition, a model for inlet restrictions is also included to simulate the stabilizing effect of these components. In the final part of the paper, validation results of the model are presented, in which the stability results of the model are compared with the existing experimental data from the literature. Next, a parametric study is performed focusing on the stabilizing effects of the solid substrate properties. It is found that increasing the thermal conductivity and thickness of the solid substrate has a strong stabilizing effect, while increasing the number of microchannels has a small destabilizing effect. Finally, representative dynamic results are also given to demonstrate some of the unique capabilities of the model.
Benchmarking Study on the Thermal Management Landscape for Three-Dimensional Integrated Circuits: From Back-Side to Volumetric Heat Removal
Authors: Brunschwiler Thomas , Sridhar Arvind , Lee Ong Chin , Schlottig Gerd
Published: January 2016

An overview of the thermal management landscape with focus on heat dissipation from three-dimensional (3D) chip stacks is provided in this study. Evolutionary and revolutionary topologies, such as single-side, dual-side, and finally, volumetric heat removal, are benchmarked with respect to a high-performance three-tier chip stack with an aggregate power dissipation of 672 W. The thermal budget of 50 K can be maintained by three topologies, namely: (1) dual-side cooling, implemented by a thermally active interposer, (2) interlayer cooling with four-port fluid delivery and drainage at 100 kPa pressure drop, and (3) a hybrid approach combining interlayer with embedded back-side cooling. Of all the heat-removal concepts, interlayer cooling is the only approach that scales with the number of dies in the chip stack and hence enables extreme 3D integration. However, the required size of the microchannels competes with the requirement of low through-silicon-via (TSV) heights and pitches. A scaling study was performed to derive the TSV pitch that is compatible with cooling channels to dissipate 150 W/cm2 per tier. An active integrated circuit (IC) area of 4 cm2 was considered, which had to be implemented on the varying tier count in the stack. A cuboid form factor of 2 mm × 4 mm × 2.55 mm results from a die count of 50. The resulting microchannels of 2 mm length allow small hydraulic diameters and thus a very high TSV density of 1837 1/mm2. The accumulated heat flux and the volumetric power dissipation are as high as 7.5 kW/cm2 and 29 kW/cm3, respectively.
Lid-Integral Cold-Plate Topology: Integration, Performance, and Reliability
Authors: Schlottig Gerd , de Fazio Marco , Escher Werner , Granatieri Paola , Khanna Vijayeshwar D. , Brunschwiler Thomas
Published: January 2016

We demonstrate the lid-integral silicon cold-plate topology as a way to bring liquid cooling closer to the heat source integrated circuit (IC). It allows us to eliminate one thermal interface material (TIM2), to establish and improve TIM1 during packaging, to use wafer-level processes, and to ease integration in first-level packaging. We describe the integration and analyze the reliability aspects of this package using modeling and test vehicles. To compare the impact of geometry, materials, and mechanical coupling on warpage, strains, and stresses, we simulate finite element models of five different topologies on an organic land-grid array (LGA) carrier. We measure the thermal performance in terms of thermal resistance from cold-plate base to inlet liquid and obtain 15 mm2 K/W at 30 kPa pressure drop across the package. We build two different topologies using silicon cold-plates and injection-molded lids. Gasket-attached cold-plates pass an 800 kPa pressure test, and direct-attached cold-plates fracture in the cold-plate. The results advise to use a compliant layer between cold-plate and manifold lid and promise a uniformly thick TIM1 layer in the Si–Si matched topology. The work shows the feasibility of composite lids with integrated silicon cold-plates in high heat flux applications.
Experimental Validation Benchmark Data for Computational Fluid Dynamics of Mixed Convection on a Vertical Flat Plate
Authors: Lance Blake W. , Harris Jeff R. , Smith Barton L.
Published: January 2016

Model validation for computational fluid dynamics (CFD), where experimental data and model outputs are compared, is a key tool for assessing model uncertainty. In this work, mixed convection was studied experimentally for the purpose of providing validation data for CFD models with a high level of completeness. Experiments were performed in a facility built specifically for validation with a vertical, flat, heated wall. Data were acquired for both buoyancy-aided and buoyancy-opposed turbulent flows. Measured boundary conditions (BCs) include as-built geometry, inflow mean and fluctuating velocity profiles, and inflow and wall temperatures. Additionally, room air temperature, pressure, and relative humidity were measured to provide fluid properties. Measured system responses inside the flow domain include mean and fluctuating velocity profiles, temperature profiles, wall heat flux, and wall shear stress. All of these data are described in detail and provided in tabulated format.
Maintenance of Velocity and Power With Cluster Sets During High-Volume Back Squats
Authors: Tufano James J. , Conlon Jenny A. , Nimphius Sophia , Brown Lee E. , Seitz Laurent B. , Williamson Bryce D. , Haff G. Gregory
Published: January 2016

Purpose:

To compare the effects of a traditional set structure and 2 cluster set structures on force, velocity, and power during back squats in strength-trained men.

Methods:

Twelve men (25.8 ± 5.1 y, 1.74 ± 0.07 m, 79.3 ± 8.2 kg) performed 3 sets of 12 repetitions at 60% of 1-repetition maximum using 3 different set structures: traditional sets (TS), cluster sets of 4 (CS4), and cluster sets of 2 (CS2).

Results:

When averaged across all repetitions, peak velocity (PV), mean velocity (MV), peak power (PP), and mean power (MP) were greater in CS2 and CS4 than in TS (P < .01), with CS2 also resulting in greater values than CS4 (P < .02). When examining individual sets within each set structure, PV, MV, PP, and MP decreased during the course of TS (effect sizes 0.28–0.99), whereas no decreases were noted during CS2 (effect sizes 0.00–0.13) or CS4 (effect sizes 0.00–0.29).

Conclusions:

These results demonstrate that CS structures maintain velocity and power, whereas TS structures do not. Furthermore, increasing the frequency of intraset rest intervals in CS structures maximizes this effect and should be used if maximal velocity is to be maintained during training.
Figure-8 Strap Application: Immediate Alteration of Pectoralis Minor Length and Scapular Alignment During Arm-Lifting Exercise in Participants With Forward Shoulder Posture
Authors: Ko Chang-Hee , Cynn Heon-Seock , Lee Ji-Hyun , Yoon Tae-Lim , Choi Sil-Ah
Published: January 2016

Context:

Scapular bracing can correct scapular kinematics and restore normal scapular-muscle activity. However, there is little evidence to support the beneficial effects of a figure-8 strap, a type of scapular bracing, on muscle length, scapular alignment, and muscle activity during arm-lifting exercise.

Objective:

To investigate the immediate effect of a figure-8 strap on pectoralis minor length, scapular alignment, and scapular upward-rotator-muscle activity.

Design:

Cross-sectional study.

Setting:

Research laboratory.

Participants:

Fifteen male participants (age 22.1 ± 1.9 y, weight 68.2 ± 5.7 kg, height 176.2 ± 3.3 cm) with forward shoulder posture (FSP) were examined for pectoralis minor length and scapular alignment with and without the application of a figure-8 strap.

Main Outcome Measures:

Pectoralis minor length was measured using the Pectoralis Minor Index (PMI), scapular alignment was measured with FSP, and upper trapezius, lower trapezius, and serratus anterior muscle activity were measured using surface electromyography while participants performed an arm-lifting exercise. Data collected with and without applying a figure-8 strap were compared using a paired t-test.

Results:

Applying a figure-8 strap significantly decreased the PMI (P = .005) and scapular anterior tilting (P = .000). There were no differences in the muscle activity of the upper trapezius (P = .784), lower trapezius (P = .241), and serratus anterior muscles (P = .639).

Conclusions:

A figure-8 strap resulted in positive changes in pectoralis minor length and scapular alignment. The results support its use as a treatment aid in managing pectoralis minor length and scapular alignment during arm-lifting exercises.
Optimal Joint Positions for Manual Isometric Muscle Testing
Authors: Garcia Stefan C. , Dueweke Jeffrey J. , Mendias Christopher L.
Published: January 2016

Context: Manual isometric muscle testing is a common clinical technique used to assess muscle strength. To provide the most accurate data for the test, the muscle being assessed should be at a length in which it produces maximum force. However, there is tremendous variability in the recommended positions and joint angles used to conduct these tests, with few apparent objective data used to position the joint such that muscle-force production is greatest. Objective: To use validated anatomically and biomechanically based musculoskeletal models to identify the optimal joint positions in which to perform manual isometric testing. Design: In silico analysis. Main outcome measure: The joint position which produces maximum muscle force for 49 major limb and trunk muscles. Results: The optimal joint position for performing a manual isometric test was determined. Conclusion: Using objective anatomical models that take into account the force-length properties of muscles, the authors identified joint positions in which net muscle-force production was predicted to be maximal. This data can help health care providers to better assess muscle function when manual isometric strength tests are performed.
Mortality rates at 10 years after metal-on-metal hip resurfacing compared with total hip replacement in England
Authors: Kendal Adrian R , Prieto-Alhambra Daniel , Arden Nigel K , Carr Andrew , Judge Andrew
Published: January 2016

STUDY QUESTION

How do 10 year mortality rates compare between patients undergoing metal-on-metal (MoM) hip resurfacing and those undergoing total hip replacement in England?

SUMMARY ANSWER

Patients in England with hip osteoarthritis who underwent MoM hip resurfacing between 1999 and 2012 have reduced long term mortality compared with those who underwent cemented and uncemented THR.
2016 update on eating disorders in athletes: A comprehensive narrative review with a focus on clinical assessment and management
Authors: Joy Elizabeth , Kussman Andrea , Nattiv Aurelia
Published: January 2016

Eating disorders, such as anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa, can have devastating effects on both the health and performance of athletes. Compared to non-athletes, both female and male athletes are at higher risk of developing an eating disorder. This is especially true for athletes participating in sports where low body weight or leanness confers a competitive advantage. Screening for disordered eating behaviours, eating disorders and for related health consequences should be a standard component of preparticipation examinations, and team physicians should be knowledgeable of the updated diagnostic criteria for eating disorders in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual-V. Athletes with eating disorders should undergo thorough evaluation and treatment by an experienced multidisciplinary team. Team physicians play a critical role in decision-making on clearance for participation and return to play. Using evidence-based guidelines for clearance and return to play encourages transparency and accountability between the sports medicine care team and the athlete. Efforts to prevent eating disorders should be aimed at athletes, coaches, parents and athletic administrators, and focused on expanding knowledge of healthy nutrition in support of sport performance and health.
Peer victimisation during adolescence and its impact on depression in early adulthood: prospective cohort study in the United Kingdom
Authors: Bowes Lucy , Joinson Carol , Wolke Dieter , Lewis Glyn
Published: January 2016

Objective

To investigate the strength of the association between victimisation by peers at age 13 years and depression at 18 years.

Design

Longitudinal observational study.

Setting

Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children, a UK community based birth cohort.

Participants

6719 participants who reported on peer victimisation at age 13 years.

Main Outcome Measures

Depression defined according to international classification of diseases, 10th revision (ICD-10) criteria, assessed using the clinical interview schedule-revised during clinic assessments with participants when they were aged 18 years. 3898 participants had data on both victimisation by peers at age 13 years and depression at age 18 years.

Results

Of the 683 participants who reported frequent victimisation at age 13 years, 101 (14.8%) were depressed according to ICD-10 criteria at 18 years; of the 1446 participants reporting some victimisation at age 13 years, 103 (7.1%) were depressed at age 18 years; and of the 1769 participants reporting no victimisation at age 13 years, 98 (5.5%) were depressed at age 18 years. Compared with children who were not victimised those who were frequently victimised by peers had over a twofold increase in odds of depression (odds ratio 2.96, 95% confidence interval 2.21 to 3.97, P<0.001). This association was slightly reduced when adjusting for confounders (2.32, 1.49 to 3.63, P<0.001). The population attributable fraction suggested that 29.2% (95% confidence interval 10.9% to 43.7%) of depression at age 18 years could be explained by peer victimisation if this were a causal relation.

Conclusion

When using observational data it is impossible to be certain that associations are causal. However, our results are consistent with the hypothesis that victimisation by peers in adolescence is associated with an increase in the risk of developing depression as an adult.
Characterization of 2,3,6,7,10,11-hexahydroxytriphenylene and its effects on cell viability in human cancer cell lines
Authors: Naidek Karine P. , Zuconelli Cristiane R. , Cruz Otavio M. , Ribeiro Ronny , Winnischofer Sheila M.B. , Winnischofer Herbert
Published: January 2016

We synthesized 2,3,6,7,10,11-hexahydroxytriphenylene (HHTP), characterized it by electrochemistry, spectroelectrochemistry, and electron paramagnetic resonance techniques, and evaluated its cytotoxicity to human cancer cell lines. The results revealed that HHTP has accessible higher-oxidation states, especially the tris-semiquinone monoradical. This species is stable and is formed after being stored for months. HHTP exhibited cytotoxic effects on 5 human cancer cell lines, including glioma and lung cancer cells. The cytotoxic effect was evaluated based on the decrease in cell viability, increases in the percentage of cells with fragmented DNA, and elevated numbers of annexin V–PI-positive cells after HHTP treatment.
Inhibition of mTOR enhances radiosensitivity of lung cancer cells and protects normal lung cells against radiation
Authors: Zheng Hang , Wang Miao , Wu Jing , Wang Zhi-Ming , Nan Hai-Jun , Sun He
Published: January 2016

Radiotherapy has been used for a long time as a standard therapy for cancer; however, there have been no recent research breakthroughs. Radioresistance and various side-effects lead to the unexpected outcomes of radiation therapy. Specific and accurate targeting as well as reduction of radioresistance have been major challenges for irradiation therapy. Recent studies have shown that rapamycin shows promise for inhibiting tumorigenesis by suppressing mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR). We found that the combination of rapamycin with irradiation significantly diminished cell viability and colony formation, and increased cell apoptosis, as compared with irradiation alone in lung cancer cell line A549, suggesting that rapamycin can enhance the effectiveness of radiation therapy by sensitizing cancer cells to irradiation. Importantly, we observed that the adverse effects of irradiation on a healthy lung cell line (WI-38) were also offset. No enhanced protein expression of mTOR signaling was observed in WI-38 cells, which is normally elevated in lung cancer cells. Moreover, DNA damage was significantly less with the combination therapy than with irradiation therapy alone. Our data suggest that the incorporation of rapamycin during radiation therapy could be a potent way to improve the sensitivity and effectiveness of radiation therapy as well as to protect normal cells from being damaged by irradiation.
Pyrosequencing analysis of bacterial communities in Lake Bosten, a large brackish inland lake in the arid northwest of China
Authors: Zhang Lei , Gao Guang , Tang Xiangming , Shao Keqiang , Gong Yi
Published: January 2016

The bacteria inhabiting brackish lake environments are poorly known, and there are few studies on the microbial diversity of these environments. Lake Bosten, a large brackish inland lake, is the largest lake in Xinjiang Province in northwestern China. Because sediments record past limnic changes, the analysis of sedimentary bacteria in Lake Bosten may help elucidate bacterial responses to environmental change. We employed 454 pyrosequencing to investigate the diversity and bacterial community composition in Lake Bosten. A total of 48 230 high-quality sequence reads with 16 314 operational taxonomic units were successfully obtained from the 4 selected samples, and they were numerically dominated by members of the Deltaproteobacteria (17.1%), Chloroflexi (16.1%), Betaproteobacteria (12.6%), Bacteroidetes (6.6%), and Firmicutes (5.7%) groups, accounting for more than 58.1% of the bacterial sequences. The sediment bacterial communities and diversity were consistently different along the 2 geographic environmental gradients: (i) freshwater–brackish water gradient and (ii) oligotrophic–mesotrophic habitat gradient. Deltaproteobacteria, Chloroflexi, and Betaproteobacteria were amplified throughout all of the sampling sites. More Bacteroidetes and Firmicutes were found near the Kaidu River estuary (site 14). Our investigation showed that Proteobacteria did not display any systematic change along the salinity gradient, and numerous 16S rRNA sequences could not be identified at the genus level. Our data will provide a better understanding of the diversity and distribution of bacteria in arid region brackish lakes.
SOGI Algorithm-Based Shunt Active Power Filter for Grid Integration of Photovoltaic Systems
Authors: Manimekalai P. , Harikumar R. , Raghavan S.
Published: January 2016

In this paper, photovoltaic (PV) system interfaced single-phase shunt active power filter (SAPF) is proposed to supply uninterrupted and clean power to small-scale industries and domestic customers. The second-order generalized integrator (SOGI) is employed to extract the reference current of PV-SAPF. The proposed topology does not need voltage measurement and sensors on both the AC and DC side, just two current sensors are accustomed to measure converter and load currents. To be able to acquire an accurate reference source current, the distorted load is only processed through the SOGI control algorithm which does not need voltage-related information. The PV interfaced SAPF mainly is used for sustainable compensation of current disturbances and voltage interruption of the single-phase distribution system. The proposed topology utilizes the PV energy with an energy storage unit to meet the active power requirement of the utility grid. Besides, it exports the power generated in the PV system to the load during unavailability of grid supply. The PV-SAPF system subject to different types of loads can assess the performance of the system under steady-state and dynamic conditions. To validate the effectiveness of the proposed controller for PV interfaced SAPF, the simulation and experimental results are presented.
Experimental Study on Brush-Painted Passive RFID-Based Humidity Sensors Embedded into Plywood Structures
Authors: Sipilä Erja , Virkki Johanna , Sydänheimo Lauri , Ukkonen Leena
Published: January 2016

The integration of electronics and wood is an interesting research area due to the increasing interest to add functionality into various wooden products. The passive RFID-based humidity sensor tag prototype, presented in this paper, is fabricated directly on plywood substrate to be embedded into wooden structures, by using brush-painting and photonic sintering of cost-effective silver ink. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first demonstration of brush-painted antennas as sensor elements. The developed sensor tag is fully passive and small in size, meaning it can be permanently enclosed into wooden structures. In addition, the sensor tag has all the functionalities of an ordinary passive UHF RFID tag, and a peak read range of about 10 meters. The sensor performance was evaluated in normal room conditions, after two 100% relative humidity tests, and after drying in normal room conditions for 9 days. According to the results, the fabricated UHF RFID-based humidity sensor tags have a great potential to be utilized in humidity sensing applications, and also in normal automatic identification and supply chain control of various wooden products. In addition, the first results of more cost-effective brush-painted copper UHF RFID tags on plywood substrate are presented.
An Unprecedented Straightforward Synthesis of Chiral Pyrrolo[3,4-b]quinolone and Pyrrolo[3,2-b]quinolone Backbones Starting fromtrans-4-Hydroxy-L-proline
Authors: Comesse Sébastien , Daïch Adam
Published: January 2016

The straightforward synthesis of pyrrolo[3,4-b]quinolone and pyrrolo[3,2-b]quinolone backbones, which can be found in molecules exhibiting anticancer activities, is presented. The key step of the process is an efficient and unprecedented Friedländer condensation between an oxoproline carbamate, obtained in 3 steps and good yield starting from commercially available and relatively cheaptrans-4-hydroxy-L-proline, and various 2-amino-substituted carbonyl derivatives. It was demonstrated that the formation of the two possible regioisomers was fully triggered by both the R substituent onto the 2-amino-substituted carbonyl compounds and the ester function onto the oxoproline carbamate. Thus, in some cases, a complete regiocontrol for the Friedländer reaction could be attained.
A Simple and Facile Glucose Biosensor Based on Prussian Blue Modified Graphite String
Authors: Lee Seung Ho , Chung Joo-Ho , Park Hun-Kuk , Lee Gi-Ja
Published: January 2016

This work describes the string sensor for the simple and sensitive detection of glucose which is based on Prussian blue (PB) modified graphite utilizing dipping. First, PB modified graphite (PB-G) strings are characterized by physical and electrochemical techniques to optimize the PB-G layer thickness. Then, glucose oxidase (GOx) is immobilized on PB-G string electrode with biocompatible chitosan overlayer (Chi/GOx/PB-G). The Chi/GOx/PB-G string electrode exhibits a sensitivity of 641.3 μA·mM−1·cm−2to glucose with a linear range of 0.03 to 1.0 mM (R2=0.9957) and a rapid response time (<3 s). Moreover, the Chi/GOx/PB-G string electrodes are less sensitive to common interference materials such as ascorbic acid, uric acid, galactose, and acetaminophen than to glucose. The Chi/GOx/PB-G string electrodes also show excellent reproducibility (<5% RSD). Therefore, our Chi/GOx/PB-G string electrodes can be simple, robust, and reliable tools for glucose sensing which can avoid complicated and difficult multistep fabrication processes. In addition, we expect that they have many potential applications in fields ranging from health care to food analysis, in particular where single use is favorable.
Iatrogenic Spinal Cord Injury during Removal of the Inferior Articular Process in the Presence of Ossification of the Ligamentum Flavum
Authors: Burke Shane M. , Hwang Steven W. , Safain Mina G. , Riesenburger Ron I.
Published: January 2016

Ossified ligamentum flavum (OLF) is a condition of heterotopic lamellar bone formation within the yellow ligament. Some patients with OLF can be asymptomatic. However, asymptomatic OLF may not be obvious on preoperative MRI and could increase the risk of iatrogenic injury during treatments for unrelated spinal conditions. This report describes a case of spinal cord injury caused by the indirect transmission of force from an osteotome to an asymptomatic OLF during the resection of a thoracic inferior articular process (IAP). To prevent this outcome, we urge careful review of CT imaging in the preoperative setting and advocate the use of a high-speed drill instead of an osteotome during bone removal in the setting of an adjacent area of OLF.
Effects of Interface Damage Resulting from the Separation of Layered Strata on Bolt Anchoring Systems
Authors: Feng Xiaowei , Zhang Nong , Lv Chuangxin
Published: January 2016

Layered strata occurrence is frequently seen in underground constructions, the man-made excavation is thus easy to cause separation between neighboring strata. The sudden and unexpected occurrence of separation will induce significant shock wave and vibration to relative bolting system that initially holds the normal working space for underground production. The bolting system is extremely sensitive to this shock and is easily weakened or damaged. By examining the locations of strata separation and the extent of damage along an anchoring interface, this paper investigates the factors that influence the support strength of anchoring system. The results show that the support strength of a bolt is independent of the separation location if the resin-rock interface is intact. The opposite is the case if the separation width between the neighboring strata exceeds the ultimate critical value, which induces damage along the interface. In this case, the support strength increases exponentially as the separation increases. Separation at the free loading end dramatically decreases the support strength. However, this decrease is mitigated if the separation is located in the middle of the anchoring body or at the loading end. These results are then calibrated and verified in a laboratory test.
Survey of Engineering Models for Systems Biology
Authors: Reeves Gregory T. , Hrischuk Curtis E.
Published: January 2016

In recent years, the field of systems biology has emerged from a confluence of an increase both in molecular biotechnology and in computing storage and power. As a discipline, systems biology shares many characteristics with engineering. However, before the benefits of engineering-based modeling formalisms and analysis tools can be applied to systems biology, the engineering discipline(s) most related to systems biology must be identified. In this paper, we identify the cell as an embedded computing system and, as such, demonstrate that systems biology shares many aspects in common with computer systems engineering, electrical engineering, and chemical engineering. This realization solidifies the grounds for using modeling formalisms from these engineering subdisciplines to be applied to biological systems. While we document several examples where this is already happening, our goal is that identifying the cell as an embedded computing system would motivate and facilitate further discovery through more widespread use of the modeling formalisms described here.
Characterizations of Regular Ordered Semirings by Ordered Quasi-Ideals
Authors: Palakawong na Ayutthaya Pakorn , Pibaljommee Bundit
Published: January 2016

We introduce the notion of an ordered quasi-ideal of an ordered semiring and show that ordered quasi-ideals and ordered bi-ideals coincide in regular ordered semirings. Then we give characterizations of regular ordered semirings, regular ordered duo-semirings, and left (right) regular ordered semirings by their ordered quasi-ideals.
Changes in Oxidative Stress and Antioxidant Enzyme Activities in Streptozotocin‐Induced Diabetes Mellitus in Rats: Role of Alhagi maurorum Extracts
Authors: Sheweita S. A. , Mashaly S. , Newairy A. A. , Abdou H. M. , Eweda S. M.
Published: January 2016

Alhagi maurorum (camel thorn plant) is a promising medicinal plant due to the presence of flavonoids and phenolic compounds as major contents of its constituents. No previous study has been conducted before on A. maurorum extracts as an antioxidative stress and/or antidiabetic herb in STZ‐induced DM in rats. Therefore, four groups of rats were allocated as control (C), STZ‐induced DM (D), and STZ‐induced DM supplemented with 300 mg/kg BW of either aqueous extract (WE) or ethanolic extract (EE) of A. maurorum. The plasma levels of glucose, TG, TC, LDL‐C and VLDL‐C, MDA, and bilirubin and the activities of transaminases and GR were significantly increased in the diabetic group. Also, diabetic rats showed severe glucose intolerance and histopathological changes in their livers. In addition, levels of insulin, total proteins, GSH, and HDL‐C and the activities of SOD, GPx, and GST were significantly decreased in the diabetic rats compared to those of the control group. The ingestion of A. maurorum extracts lowered the blood glucose levels during the OGTT compared to the diabetic rats and restored all tested parameters to their normal levels with the exception of insulin level that could not be restored. It is concluded that A. maurorum extracts decreased elevated blood glucose levels and hyperlipidemia and suppressed oxidative stress caused by diabetes mellitus in rats.
Association between Fellowship Training, Surgical Volume, and Laparoscopic Suturing Techniques among Members of the American Association of Gynecologic Laparoscopists
Authors: Mikhail Emad , Scott Lauren , Miladinovic Branko , Imudia Anthony N. , Hart Stuart
Published: January 2016

Study Objective. To compare surgical volume and techniques including laparoscopic suturing among members of the American Association of Gynecologic Laparoscopists (AAGL) according to fellowship training status.Design. A web-based survey was designed using Qualtrics and sent to AAGL members.Results. Minimally invasive gynecologic surgery (FMIGS) trained surgeons were more likely to perform more than 8 major conventional laparoscopic cases per month (63% versus 38%,P<0.001, OR [95% CI] = 2.78 [1.54–5.06]) and were more likely to perform laparoscopic suturing during these cases (32% versus 16%,P<0.004, OR [95% CI] = 2.44 [1.25–4.71]). The non-fellowship trained (NFT) surgeons in private practice were less likely to perform over 8 conventional laparoscopic cases (34% versus 51%,P=0.03, OR [95% CI] = 0.50 [0.25–0.99]) and laparoscopic suturing during these cases (13% versus 27%,P=0.01, OR [95% CI] = 0.39 [0.17–0.92]) compared to NFT surgeons in academic practice. Conclusion. The surgical volume and utilization of laparoscopic suturing of FMIGS trained surgeons are significantly increased compared to NFT surgeons. Academic practice setting had a positive impact on surgical volume of NFT surgeons but not on FMIGS trained surgeons.
Preparation of Three Types of Transformer Oil-Based Nanofluids and Comparative Study on the Effect of Nanoparticle Concentrations on Insulating Property of Transformer Oil
Authors: Wang Qi , Rafiq Muhammad , Lv Yuzhen , Li Chengrong , Yi Kai
Published: January 2016

Nanofluids have the potential to become the alternatives of conventional transformer oil for their exquisite electrical and thermal properties. Three kinds of nanoparticles with distinct conductivities, namely, nonconductive nanoparticle Al2O3, conductive nanoparticle Fe3O4, and semiconductive nanoparticle TiO2, with different concentrations from 5% to 40% w/v were selected and suspended into transformer oil to develop nanofluids. The lightening impulse breakdown strengths of the oil samples with and without nanoparticles were measured according to IEC standard methods. The positive impulse breakdown strength indicated that breakdown strength is first increased up to the maximum value at certain concentration and then starts decreasing. The results of negative impulse breakdown manifested that the breakdown voltages of nanofluids with different concentrations were less than the breakdown voltage of pure transformer oil. Different effect mechanisms of dielectric and conductive nanoparticles were also used to describe the difference among three prepared nanofluids.
1H NMR-Based Analysis of Serum Metabolites in Monocrotaline-Induced Pulmonary Arterial Hypertensive Rats
Authors: Lin Taijie , Gu Jinping , Huang Caihua , Zheng Suli , Lin Xu , Xie Liangdi , Lin Donghai
Published: January 2016

Aims. To study the changes of the metabolic profile during the pathogenesis in monocrotaline (MCT) induced pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH).Methods. Forty male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were randomly divided into 5 groups (n=8, each). PAH rats were induced by a single dose intraperitoneal injection of 60 mg/kg MCT, while 8 rats given intraperitoneal injection of 1 ml normal saline and scarified in the same day (W0) served as control. Mean pulmonary arterial pressure (mPAP) was measured through catherization. The degree of right ventricular hypertrophy and pulmonary hyperplasia were determined at the end of first to fourth weeks; nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectra of sera were then acquired for the analysis of metabolites. Principal component analysis (PCA) and orthogonal partial least-squares discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA) were used to discriminate different metabolic profiles.Results. The prominent changes of metabolic profiles were seen during these four weeks. Twenty specific metabolites were identified, which were mainly involved in lipid metabolism, glycolysis, energy metabolism, ketogenesis, and methionine metabolism. Profiles of correlation between these metabolites in each stage changed markedly, especially in the fourth week. Highly activated methionine and betaine metabolism pathways were selected by the pathway enrichment analysis.Conclusions. Metabolic dysfunction is involved in the development and progression of PAH.
Effectiveness of the Virtual Reality System Toyra on Upper Limb Function in People with Tetraplegia: A Pilot Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Dimbwadyo-Terrer I. , Gil-Agudo A. , Segura-Fragoso A. , de los Reyes-Guzmán A. , Trincado-Alonso F. , Piazza S. , Polonio-López B.
Published: January 2016

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of a virtual reality program combined with conventional therapy in upper limb function in people with tetraplegia and to provide data about patients’ satisfaction with the virtual reality system. Thirty-one people with subacute complete cervical tetraplegia participated in the study. Experimental group received 15 sessions with Toyra®virtual reality system for 5 weeks, 30 minutes/day, 3 days/week in addition to conventional therapy, while control group only received conventional therapy. All patients were assessed at baseline, after intervention, and at three-month follow-up with a battery of clinical, functional, and satisfaction scales. Control group showed significant improvements in the manual muscle test (p= 0,043, partialη2= 0,22) in the follow-up evaluation. Both groups demonstrated clinical, but nonsignificant, changes to their arm function in 4 of the 5 scales used. All patients showed a high level of satisfaction with the virtual reality system. This study showed that virtual reality added to conventional therapy produces similar results in upper limb function compared to only conventional therapy. Moreover, the gaming aspects incorporated in conventional rehabilitation appear to produce high motivation during execution of the assigned tasks. This trial is registered with EudraCT number2015-002157-35.
The Superficial Stromal Scar Formation Mechanism in Keratoconus: A Study Using Laser Scanning In Vivo Confocal Microscopy
Authors: Song Peng , Wang Shuting , Zhang Peicheng , Sui Wenjie , Zhang Yangyang , Liu Ting , Gao Hua
Published: January 2016

To investigate the mechanism of superficial stromal scarring in advanced keratoconus using confocal microscopy, the keratocyte density, distribution, micromorphology of corneal stroma, and SNP in three groups were observed. Eight corneal buttons of advanced keratoconus were examined by immunohistochemistry. The keratocyte densities in the sub-Bowman’s stroma, anterior stroma, and posterior stroma and the mean SNP density were significantly different among the three groups. In the mild-to-moderate keratoconus group, activated keratocyte nuclei and comparatively highly reflective ECM were seen in the sub-Bowman’s stroma, while fibrotic structures with comparatively high reflection were visible in the anterior stroma in advanced keratoconus. The alternating dark and light bands in the anterior stroma of the mild-to-moderate keratoconus group showed great variability in width and direction. The wide bands were localized mostly in the posterior stroma that corresponded to the Vogt striae in keratoconus and involved the anterior stroma only in advanced keratoconus. Histopathologically, high immunogenicity ofα-SMA, vimentin, and FAP was expressed in the region of superficial stromal scarring. In vivo confocal microscopy revealed microstructural changes in the keratoconic cone. The activation of superficial keratocytes and abnormal remodeling of ECM may both play a key role in the superficial stromal scar formation in advanced keratoconus.