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Purpose: To investigate the molecular pathways by which miR-1224-5p modulate RFX5/YAP1/HIF1a pathway, thereby promoting gefitinib tolerance within non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Methods: To screen differentially expressed miR-1224-5p in NSCLC samples and predict its downstream target gene - RFX5 - by bioinformatics analysis, 60 NSCLC tissues and their corresponding paraneoplastic tissues were collected. Dual-luciferase assays were performed to verify the targeting relationship between miR-1224-5p and RFX5. Four NSCLC cell lines (A549, H1299, H2170, and H1975) and BEAS-2B normal lung epithelial cell lines were used for in vitro experiments. Co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP) and Western blotting after cycloheximide (CHX) treatment were used to determine the regulatory interaction between YAP1 and HIF1a, with YAP1 modulating HIF1a protein stability. Results: In NSCLC, downregulation of miR-1224-5p was observed, which resulted in the decrease of RFX5 levels. This reduction in miR-1224-5p levels leads to a decrease in RFX5 levels. Furthermore, restoring miR-1224-5p expression in NSCLC cells made them more sensitive to gefitinib. In vitro, RFX5 elevates YAP1, which in turn boosts the stability of HIF1a. However, miR-1224-5p disrupts this mechanism by influencing the RFX5/YAP1/HIF1a pathway, thus mitigating resistance to gefitinib. Conclusion: The findings show that miR-1224-5p targets RFX5 to suppress YAP1 transcription, thereby diminishing HIF1a stability and overcoming gefitinib tolerance in NSCLC. These findings identify miR-1224-5p as a promising approach to address gefitinib tolerance in NSCLC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sarcopenia is an age-associated skeletal muscle disease characterized by the progressive loss of muscle mass and function. The objective of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to evaluate the associations between sarcopenia and cardio-cerebrovascular disease (CCVD). A comprehensive search of the PubMed/Medline, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, and Cochrane Library databases was conducted from their inception to April 1st, 2023. A total of eight cross-sectional studies involving 63,738,162 participants met the inclusion criteria. Pooled estimates of odds ratios (ORs) were calculated using random-effects models. The findings demonstrated a significant association between sarcopenia and an increased risk of CCVD (OR: 1.33, 95% CI: 1.18 - 1.50, I² = 1%; p < 0.001). Subgroup analyses indicated that sarcopenia was associated with a 1.67-fold increase in the risk of stroke and a 1.31-fold increase in the risk of CVD. Four studies included in this review examined the association between sarcopenic obesity and the risk of CCVD, and the results revealed that sarcopenic obesity was associated with a higher risk of CCVD (OR: 1.64, 95% CI: 1.08 - 2.49, I² = 69%; p < 0.001). Meta-regressions and sensitivity analyses consistently supported the robustness of the overall findings. In conclusion, sarcopenia and sarcopenic obesity are significantly associated with an elevated risk of developing CCVD. However, further prospective cohort studies are warranted to validate this relationship while controlling for confounding factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a new idea of wireless power transfer (WPT) and fault diagnosis (FD) of highvoltage power line via robotic bird. The key is to present the conceptual robotic bird with WPT coupling coil for detecting and capturing the energy from the high-voltage power line. If the power line works in normal condition, the robotic bird is able to stand on the power line and extract energy from it. If fault occurs on the power line, the corresponding magnetic field distribution will become different from that in the normal situation. By analyzing the magnetic field distribution of the power line, the WPT to the robotic bird and the FD by the robotic bird are performed and verified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposes a new idea for magnetic sensors charging on Mars, which aims to effectively transmit energy from Mars Rover to distributed magnetic sensors. The key is to utilize wireless power transfer (WPT) to enable multiple receptors extracting energy from the source via magnetic resonant coupling. Namely, the energy transmitter is located on the Mars Rover, whereas the energy receptor is installed in the magnetic sensor. In order to effectively transfer the power, a resonator is installed between the transmitter and the receptors. Based on the proposed idea, the system topology, operation principle, and simulation results are developed. By performing finite element magnetic field analysis, the output power and efficiency of the proposed WPT system are evaluated. It confirms that the Mars Rover carrying with the energy transmitter is capable of loitering around the resonator, while the magnetic sensors on the receptors can be simultaneously charged according to energy-on-demand. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposes the energy harvesting for magnetic sensor arrays on Mars, which can receive the power from Mars Rover by wireless power transmission (WPT). The schematic idea is presented with the energy receiver as the magnetic sensor and the energy transmitter as the transducer on Mars Rover. The key is to adopt the resonant inductive power transmission (IPT) topology between the magnetic sensor and Mars Rover. The basic topology and its operating principle are discussed. By using the magnetic frequency analysis with the finite element method, the output power and efficiency of the WPT system are calculated. The results show that Mars Rover could flexibly transmit its power to different types of small-size magnetic sensors based on their energy on demand using different resonant frequencies and distances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: In clinical perspectives, how to distinguish a small proportion of children at risk of developing neurological complications from a large number of children with mild symptoms still remains a challenge for primary care doctors. Methodology: From January 2012 to December 2015, 225 cases with severe hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) matched with 492 controls were enrolled in the age-matched, case-control study. Continuous variables were examined by univariate analysis using a chi-squared or Fisher's exact test, and categorical variables were reported by relative risks (odd's ratio). Multivariate logistic regression was used to analyze the independent risk factors for severe HFMD. Results: Peak body temperature over 37.5°C total duration of fever over 3 days, lethargy, enterovirus 71 (EV71) infection were independent risk factors for severe HFMD. Conclusions: Peak body temperature over 37.5°C total duration of fever over 3 days, lethargy, EV71 infection were independent risk factors for severe HFMD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study presents a finite-control-set model predictive current control (FCS-MPCC) with phase shift compensation for a cost-effective voltage source inverter. Firstly, the FCS-MPCC algorithm uses the discrete-time model of the inverter to predict the coming value of the load current. In addition, a cost function is defined to evaluate all possible voltage vectors from the inverter, where the cost function is selected. Moreover, a pulse computation module is developed to obtain the final switching signals for insulated-gate bipolar transistors. In addition, the problem of current distortion caused by phase shift is solved by employing a time interval compensation factor. Furthermore, a comparison between the hysteresis control, pulse-width modulation control, and proposed predictive control is presented in terms of the steady-state and dynamic performances. Both simulation and experiment are conducted, which confirm the validity of the proposed control scheme of FCS-MPCC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a new three-phase four-leg voltage source inverter (VSI), which achieves a high cost effectiveness for mega-watt level system applications. The proposed four-leg inverter adopts the integrated topology with thyristors and insulated-gate bipolar transistors (IGBTs), which aims to reduce the number of IGBTs. In order to handle the zero sequence current, a neutral leg via incorporating IGBTs is artfully integrated with the regular phase legs. Furthermore, the modelling principles are elaborated and analyzed, which emphasizes switching states and voltage vectors in six segments based on the states of thyristors. Finally, by using the carrier-based pulse width modulation (PWM) method, the closed-loop current control of the proposed inverter is verified by both simulation and experimentation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a cost-effectiveness comparison of coupler designs for wireless power transfer (WPT), meant for electric vehicle (EV) dynamic charging. The design comparison of three common types of couplers is first based on the raw material cost, output power, transfer efficiency, tolerance of horizontal offset, and flux density. Then, the optimal cost-effectiveness combination is selected for EV dynamic charging. The corresponding performances of the proposed charging system are compared and analyzed by both simulation and experimentation. The results verify the validity of the proposed dynamic charging system for EVs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

YiQiFuMai injection (YQFM) is a modern lyophilized powder preparation derived from the traditional Chinese medicine Sheng-mai san (SMS) used for treating cardiovascular diseases, such as chronic heart failure. However, its chemical composition has not been fully elucidated, particularly for the preparation derived from Ophiopogon japonicus. This study aimed to establish a systematic and reliable method to quickly and simultaneously analyze the chemical constituents in YQFM by ultra-fast liquid chromatography coupled with ion trap time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UFLC-IT-TOF/MS). Sixty-five compounds in YQFM were tentatively identified by comparison with reference substances or literature data. Furthermore, twenty-one compounds, including three ophiopogonins, fifteen ginsenosides and three lignans were quantified by UFLC-IT-TOF/MS. Notably, this is the first determination of steroidal saponins from O. japonicus in YQFM. The relative standard deviations (RSDs) of intra- and inter-day precision, reproducibility and stability were <4.9% and all analytes showed good linearity (R2 ≥ 0.9952) and acceptable recovery of 91.8%–104.2% (RSD ≤ 5.4%), indicating that the methods were reliable. These methods were successfully applied to quantitative analysis of ten batches of YQFM. The developed approach can provide useful and comprehensive information for quality control, further mechanistic studies in vivo and clinical application of YQFM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Study Question: Are maternal urinary phenol concentrations associated with cord steroid hormone levels and anogenital distance (AGD) in male newborns?Summary Answer: High maternal urinary Bisphenol A (BPA) levels are associated with decreases in cord testosterone levels and the ratio of testosterone to estradiol in male newborns, but there was no significant association with AGD.What Is Known Already: Early life exposure to phenolic endocrine disrupting compounds (EDCs) is known to disrupt hormonal activities and affect reproductive development in males. However, studies on the health effects of prenatal human exposure are scarce.Study Design, Size, Duration: This was a cross-sectional study to investigate the association between maternal phenolic exposure and cord sex steroid hormones and AGD in male newborns. We recruited 100 mother-infant pairs from each of two hospitals, one in a polluted town (Guiyu) and the other in a cleaner town (Haojiang), from September 2010 to September 2011.Participants/materials, Setting, Methods: One hundred and seventy eight maternal urine samples and 137 cord blood samples were available for quantification, thus 137 complete records entered into the final analysis. Of them, 77 pairs were from Guiyu, and 60 were from Haojiang. The chemical concentrations were determined by solid phase extraction and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (SPE-GC-MS), and cord sex hormones were detected by radioimmunoassay (RIA). Neonatal anthropometric parameters including AGD were measured.Main Results and the Role Of Chance: Log2-transformed maternal urinary BPA concentration was negatively correlated with testosterone level and the ratio of testosterone to estradiol (T/E2) in male fetal cord blood after adjustment for potential confounders in linear regression models (βadjusted = -31.09 (95% CI, -53.07 to -9.11) and βadjusted = -0.08 (95% CI, -0.13 to -0.01), respectively). Moreover, compared with the lowest quartile group of BPA level, the highest group showed a significant decrease in testosterone level and T/E2 (βadjusted = -179.84 (95% CI, -333.45 to -26.24) and βadjusted = -0.37 (95% CI, -0.81 to 0.07), respectively). No significant associations between AGD or anogenital index (AGI, [AGI = AGD/birthweight (mm/kg)]) and phenolic EDCs or cord hormone levels were found.Limitations, Reasons For Caution: Results in the present study should be interpreted with caution because of its cross-sectional nature, small sample size and sampling time.Wider Implications Of the Findings: Testosterone plays an important role in sex differentiation and normal development of the fetus and newborn, and the balance between testosterone and estradiol is thought an important mediator of prostate disease. Therefore, our findings may have important implications for human reproductive health.Study Funding/competing Interests: This work was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (21377077) and Guangdong University Project for International Cooperation and Innovation Platform (2013gjhz0007). The authors declare they have no actual or potential competing financial interests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the present study was to compare the oncological outcomes following lobectomy using either video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) or thoracotomy in clinical stage I non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients. Short- and long-term data from 212 consecutive patients who underwent lobectomy for clinical stage I NSCLC via VATS or thoracotomy between February 2003 and July 2013 were retrospectively reviewed. The primary endpoints were mediastinal lymph node staging, disease-free survival time and overall survival time. A total of 212 lobectomies for clinical stage I NSCLC were performed, 123 by VATS and 89 by thoracotomy. Patients' demographic data, pathological stage and residual tumor were similar in the two groups. Reduced blood loss, less post-operative analgesia required and earlier hospital discharge were recorded for the VATS group, as compared with the thoracotomy group. The overall morbidity was similar in the two groups. However, the rate of major complications was higher following thoracotomy than following VATS. No 30-day mortality occurred subsequent to either thoracotomy or VATS lobectomy. The overall survival and disease-free survival times were comparable between the two groups. In the univariate analysis, the treatment approach was not associated with the overall five-year survival or the disease-free survival times. Multivariate Cox regression analysis of survival times revealed that significant predictors of shorter survival times were advanced pathological T3 stage, pathological N1 or N2 disease and poor cancer differentiation. In conclusion, it is reasonable to conclude from the present study that VATS lobectomy performed by specialist thoracic surgeons is safe and may achieve similar long-term survival times to the open surgery approach. However, further prospective randomized multi-center trials are warranted prior to incorporating VATS into clinical routine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposes a new electrically controlled magnetic variable-speed gearing (EC-MVSG) machine, which is capable of providing controllable gear ratios for hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) applications. The key design feature involves the adoption of a magnetic gearing structure and acceptance of the memory machine flux-mnemonic concept. Hence, the proposed machine can not only offer a gear-shifting mechanism for torque and speed transmission, but also provide variable gear ratios for torque and speed variation. The electromagnetic design is studied and discussed. The finite-element method is developed with the hysteresis model to verify the validity of the machine design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new magnetless axial-flux doubly-salient DC-field (AF-DSDC) machine is proposed and implemented into the application of a range-extended electric vehicle (RE-EV). By employing the radial active part for the torque production, the proposed machine can produce satisfactory torque density to fulfill the requirements of the RE-EV system. With the support of the 3D finite element method (3D-FEM), the performances of the proposed machine are calculated and compared with the requirements of the typical passenger RE-EV applications. To offer a more comprehensive illustration, the common radial-flux (RF) machines are included for comparison. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Granular computing classification algorithms are proposed based on distance measures between two granules from the view of set. Firstly, granules are represented as the forms of hyperdiamond, hypersphere, hypercube, and hyperbox. Secondly, the distance measure between two granules is defined from the view of set, and the union operator between two granules is formed to obtain the granule set including the granules with different granularity. Thirdly the threshold of granularity determines the union between two granules and is used to form the granular computing classification algorithms based on distance measures (DGrC). The benchmark datasets in UCI Machine Learning Repository are used to verify the performance of DGrC, and experimental results show that DGrC improved the testing accuracies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The relationship between the intellectual elite and Buddhism has undergone a profound shift in response to tremendous changes in modern society. The intellectual elite created a connection between modern Buddhist studies and Western learning, transforming Buddhist studies to reflect the radical cultural and ideological changes to Chinese society and Buddhist philosophy. They "used their ideas to advance or suppress Buddhist theories," remolding Buddhism into a new modern religion characterized by engagement with the world to save humankind, with the purpose of rescuing the national destiny, enlightening the people, and delivering the nation from extinction. They mastered Confucianism and Buddhism using a discourse infused with the spirit of the era. They thus reformed feudal Buddhism and injected traditional Buddhist teachings with the spirit of bourgeois democracy and nationalist revolution, launching the modern Chinese Buddhist movement of revival and reform and causing Chinese Buddhism to shift from "crisis" to "opportunity" in a single bound, leaping across the threshold into modern society. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

DNA-based nanomechanical devices can be used to characterize the action of DNA-distorting proteins. Here, we have constructed a device wherein two DNA triple-crossover (TX) molecules are connected by a shaft, similar to a previous device that measured the binding free energy of integration host factor. In our case, the binding site on the shaft contains the sequence recognized by SoxR protein, the apo form of which is a transcriptional activator. Another active form is oxidized [2Fe-2S] SoxR formed during redox sensing, and previous data suggest that activated Fe-SoxR distorts its binding site by localized DNA untwisting by an amount that corresponds to 2 bp. A pair of dyes report the fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) signal between the two TX domains, reflecting changes in the shape of the device upon binding of the protein. The TX domains are used to amplify the signal expected from a relatively small distortion of the DNA binding site. From FRET analysis of apo-SoxR binding, the effect of apo-SoxR on the original TX device is similar to the effect of shortening the TX device by ~2 bp. We estimate that the binding free energy of apo-SoxR on the DNA target site is 3.2-6.1 kcal/mol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The permanent-magnet hybrid brushless (PMHB) motor adopts both DC field windings and PMs for excitation. It not only offers effective online flux control, but also flexible brushless DC (BLDC) or brushless AC (BLAC) operations. The key of this paper is to investigate two remedial strategies for fault-tolerant operations of the PMHB motor drive under open-circuit faults. First, by utilizing field excitation boosting, the reduced torque due to one phase loss can be remedied, the so-called remedial BLDC operation mode. Second, by reconstructing armature fields due to the healthy phase currents, the reduced torque can also be remedied, the so-called remedial BLAC operation mode. Finally, these two remedial operation modes are compared and verified by experimentation, hence confirming the validity of the proposed fault-tolerant PMHB motor drive. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents and implements the power loss analysis of a new kind of permanent magnet hybrid brushless (PMHB) machines with and without using high-temperature superconductor (HTS) field windings. The circuit-field-torque time-stepping finite element method together with experiential equations is developed to perform power loss analysis of the PMHB machine. Experimentation is carried out to verify the proposed loss analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Classroom experiments that purport to demonstrate the role of carbon dioxide's far-infrared absorption in global climate change are more subtle than is commonly appreciated. We show, using both experimental results and theoretical analysis, that one such experiment demonstrates an entirely different phenomenon: The greater density of carbon dioxide compared to air reduces heat transfer by suppressing convective mixing with the ambient air. Other related experiments are subject to similar concerns. Argon, which has a density close to that of carbon dioxide but no infrared absorption, provides a valuable experimental control for separating radiative from convective effects. A simple analytical model for estimating the magnitude of the radiative greenhouse effect is presented, and the effect is shown to be very small for most tabletop experiments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With ever-increasing concerns on energy issues, the development of renewable energy sources is becoming more and more attractive. This paper first reviews both the wind power and photovoltaic (PV) power generation techniques and their maximum-power-point tracking (MPPT) methods. Then, a new stand-alone wind-PV hybrid generation system is proposed for application to remote and isolated areas. For the wind power generation branch, a new doubly excited permanent-magnet brushless machine is used to capture the maximum wind power by using online flux control. For the PV power generation branch, a single-ended primary inductance converter is adopted to harness the maximum solar power by tuning the duty cycle. The experimental results confirm that the proposed hybrid generation system can provide high efficiency with the use of MPPT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposes a new efficiency optimization approach for a new kind of permanent-magnet hybrid brushless (PMHB) machine. The key is to propose the self-searching control (SSC) for the PMHB machine in such a .way that the input power at the given load and speed can be progressively minimized by tuning the dc field current. A loss analysis of the machine is given to justify the use of dc field current as the control parameter. Detailed experimental results confirm that the proposed approach can effectively accomplish the desired efficiency optimization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper quantitatively compares two emerging stator-permanent-magnet (PM) machines, namely, the doubly salient PM and the PM hybrid brushless types. Both of them are attractive for electric vehicles and wind power generation. For comparison, both machines adopt the outer-rotor 36/24-pole topology and are designed based on the same peripheral dimensions. By using the circuit-field-torque time-stepping finite element analysis (CFT-TS-FEM), both steady-state and transient performances of the two machines are critically compared. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposes and implements a new 36/24-pole outer-rotor permanent magnet (PM) hybrid machine for directly coupled wind power generation. The key is to design the machine with hybridization of two excitations (PMs and dc field windings) in the double-layer stator so that it can provide effective flux control, hence realizing constant voltage output over wide ranges of speeds and loads. The machine design is illustrated by finite-element analysis and then verified by experimentation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The two exotic species, Eichhornia crassipes (Mart.) Solms and Alternanthera philoxeroides (Mart.) Griseb., are floating aquatic plants that cause serious problems throughout the world. The community establishment of these two aquatic plants and seasonal variations in Lake Donghu were studied during 1996 and 1998. The peak plant height and the maximum biomass of E. crassipes occurred in October and November respectively, whereas these peaks occurred respectively in September and November for A. philoxeroides. The variation of mat thickness of A. philoxeroides was not as intense as plant height. The biomass allocation of these species was also evaluated in 1997. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Focuses on the increase of metal fluxes from capped contaminated sediments due to submarine ground water discharge. Effects of environmental factors on metal transport; Enhancement of water transport velocity; Interactions of environmental factors.

Investigates the efficiency of capping in metal-contaminated marine sediments subjected to submarine groundwater discharge (SGD). Simulation of metal transport through sediments; Influence of SGD in the capping efficiency; Detection of manganese at the capping surface.

Purpose Patients with advanced biliary tract cancer (BTC) have a poor survival. We aim to evaluate the efficacy and safety of nabpaclitaxel plus gemcitabine and cisplatin regimen in Chinese advanced BTC patients. Materials and Methods Eligible patients with locally advanced or metastatic BTC administrated intravenous 100 mg/m2 nab-paclitaxel, 800 mg/m2 gemcitabine, and 25 mg/m2 cisplatin every 3 weeks. The primary endpoint was progression-free survival (PFS). The secondary endpoints included overall survival (OS) and adverse events, while exploratory endpoint was the association of biomarkers with efficacy. Results After the median follow-up of 25.0 months, the median PFS and OS of 34 enrolled patients were 7.1 months (95% confidence interval [CI], 5.4 to 13.7) and 16.4 months (95% CI, 10.9 to 23.6), respectively. The most common treatment-related adverse events at = 3 grade were neutropenia (26.5%) and leukopenia (26.5%). Survival analyses demonstrated that carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) levels could monitor patients' survival outcomes. A significant increase in the number of infiltrating CD4+ cells (p=0.008) and a decrease in programmed death-1-positive (PD-1+) cells (p=0.032) were observed in the response patients. Conclusion In advanced BTC patients, nab-paclitaxel plus gemcitabine and cisplatin regimen showed therapeutic potential. Potential prognostic factors of CEA levels, number of CD4+ cells and PD-1+ cells may help us maximize the efficacy benefit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper gives a design method of power transmitter for electric vehicle wireless charging applications. Uniform magnetic field is targeted for better modular application and misalignment adaption. Rectangular coil and spiral windings are specially selected for evaluation. The compound winding is chosen for optimization. The magnetic flux density is studied by calculating the mutual inductance per area. By optimally choosing the turns and pitch distances of the spiral winding, a uniform magnetic field is achieved. Using finite element analysis, the performances of the transmitter are evaluated, including its tolerance to misalignment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposes a positioning-tolerant wireless power transfer technique to compensate the impact of misalignment on the power transmission performance, which is used to implement the wireless charging functionality in a free-positioning manner, thus significantly improving the practicality for roadway-powered electric vehicles (EVs). The key of the proposed wireless power transfer technique is to adopt the gapless alternate-winding topology for the power supply unit to produce an evenly distributed electromagnetic field and the vertical-and-horizontal coil design for the pickup unit to enhance the capability of acquiring energy. Hence, the power transmission can be effectively improved in spite of an offset between the centers of the primary and secondary coils. In this paper, both the computational simulation and experimentation are carried out to verify the feasibility of the proposed positioning-tolerant wireless charging system for roadway-powered EVs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Commonly encountered nontraumatic, moderate noise is increasingly implicated in anxiety; however, the neural substrates underlying this process remain unclear. OBJECTIVES: We investigated the neural circuit mechanism through which chronic exposure to moderate-level noise causes anxiety-like behaviors. METHODS: Mice were exposed to chronic, moderate white noise [85 decibel (dB) sound pressure level (SPL)], 4 h/d for 4 wk to induce anxiety-like behaviors, which were assessed by open field, elevated plus maze, light-dark box, and social interaction tests. Viral tracing, immunofluorescence confocal imaging, and brain slice patch-clamp recordings were used to characterize projections from auditory brain regions to the lateral amygdala. Neuronal activities were characterized by in vivo multielectrode and fiber photometry recordings in awake mice. Optogenetics and chemogenetics were used to manipulate specific neural circuitry. RESULTS: Mice chronically (4 wk) exposed to moderate noise (85 dB SPL, 4 h/d) demonstrated greater neuronal activity in the lateral amygdala (LA), and the LA played a critical role in noise-induced anxiety-like behavior in these model mice. Viral tracing showed that the LA received monosynaptic projections from the medial geniculate body (MG) and auditory cortex (ACx). Optogenetic excitation of the MG → LA or ACx → LA circuits acutely evoked anxiety-like behaviors, whereas their chemogenetic inactivation abolished noise-induced anxiety-like behavior. Moreover, mice chronically exposed to moderate noise were more susceptible to acute stress, with more neuronal firing in the LA, even after noise withdrawal. DISCUSSION: Mice exposed to 4 wk of moderate noise (85 dB SPL, 4 h/d) demonstrated behavioral and physiological differences compared to controls. The neural circuit mechanisms involved greater excitation from glutamatergic neurons of the MG and ACx to LA neurons under chronic, moderate noise exposure, which ultimately promoted anxiety-like behaviors. Our findings support the hypothesis that nontraumatic noise pollution is a potentially serious but unrecognized public health concern. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Owing to the definite merits of high-efficiency and high-power density, the permanent-magnet (PM) brushless machines have been dominating the high-performance industrial applications. However, the problems of high PM material cost, fluctuating supply of rare-Earth materials and ineffective PM flux control have hindered the widespread applications of the PM brushless machines. In recent years, many attentions have been shifted to the magnetless candidates, while the focuses are mainly placed on the classical candidates. In this study, an overview of magnetless brushless machines including both the classical and advanced types is presented, with emphasis on their machine topologies, features and performances. In addition, the upcoming trend of these machines is reviewed and discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper gives a quantitative comparison of magnetic couplers for electric vehicle (EV) wireless charging applications. Circular pad with ferrite spokes and coreless rectangular coils are specially selected for analysis. The dynamic flux density between couplers under high misalignment is studied by calculating the uncompensated power of the pick-up coupler. By using finite element analysis, the performance of each type of coupler is evaluated, and its adaptation to on-road EV charging are compared according to the flux distribution and effective charging area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a secure inductive wireless power transfer (WPT) system for electric vehicle (EV) applications, such as charging the electric devices inside EVs and performing energy exchange between EVs. The key is to employ chaos theory to encrypt the wirelessly transferred energy which can then be decrypted by specific receptors in the multi-objective system. In this paper, the principle of encrypted WPT is first revealed. Then, computer simulation is conducted to validate the feasibility of the proposed system. Moreover, by comparing the WPT systems with and without encryption, the proposed energy encryption scheme does not involve noticeable power consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During the summer of 2002, we documented the occurrence of 13 native aquatic plant species in the Changgang Canal living in association with a large floating mat of Alternanthera philoxeroides, a non-native nuisance plant in China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sensory cortical areas are robustly modulated by higher-order cortices. Our previous study shows that the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) can immediately and transiently enhance responses in the mouse auditory cortex (ACx). Here, we further examined whether strong activation of ACC neurons can induce long-term effects in mice of both sexes. To our surprise, only stimulation of cell bodies in the ACC, but not ACC-to-ACx terminal activation, induced long-term enhancement of auditory responses in the ACx. Anatomical examination showed that the ACC indirectly projects to the ACx via the rhinal cortex (RCx). High-frequency stimulation of ACC-projecting terminals to the RCx or RCx-projecting terminals to the ACx induced a similar effect as the cell body activation of ACC neurons, whereas silencing the RCx blocked this long-term enhancement. High-frequency stimulation of ACC projections to the RCx also induced long-term augmentation of sound-evoked flight behavior in male mice. These results show that the ACC promotes the longterm enhancement of auditory responses in the ACx through an indirect pathway via the RCx. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cholecystokinin (CCK) enables excitatory circuit long-term potentiation (LTP). Here, we investigated its involvement in the enhancement of inhibitory synapses. Activation of GABA neurons suppressed neuronal responses in the neocortex to a forthcoming auditory stimulus in mice of both sexes. High-frequency laser stimulation (HFLS) of GABAergic neurons potentiated this suppression. HFLS of CCK interneurons could induce the LTP of their inhibition toward pyramidal neurons. This potentiation was abolished in CCK knock-out mice but intact in mice with both CCK1R and 2R knockout of both sexes. Next, we combined bioinformatics analysis, multiple unbiased cell-based assays, and histology examinations to identify a novel CCK receptor, GPR173. We propose GPR173 as CCK3R, which mediates the relationship between cortical CCK interneuron signaling and inhibitory LTP in the mice of either sex. Thus, GPR173 might represent a promising therapeutic target for brain disorders related to excitation and inhibition imbalance in the cortex. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With ever-increasing concerns for the safety and convenience of the power supply, there is a fast growing interest in wireless power transfer (WPT) for industrial devices, consumer electronics, and electric vehicles (EVs). As the resonant circuit is one of the cores of both the near-field and far-field WPT systems, it is a pressing need for researchers to develop a high-efficiency high-frequency resonant circuit, especially for the mid-range near-field WPT system. In this paper, an overview of resonant circuits for the near-field WPT system is presented, with emphasis on the non-resonant converters with a resonant tank and resonant inverters with a resonant tank as well as compensation networks and selective resonant circuits. Moreover, some key issues including the zero-voltage switching, zero-voltage derivative switching and total harmonic distortion are addressed. With the increasing usage of wireless charging for EVs, bidirectional resonant inverters forWPT based vehicle-to-grid systems are elaborated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposes and implements the concept of wireless DC motor drives, which can achieve the abilities of selective driving and controllable speed. Due to different resonant frequencies of the multiple energy receivers of the associated DC motor drives, the transmitter can be purposely tuned to the specified resonant frequency which matches with the specified receiver, hence driving the specified motor selectively. In the meantime, the burst fire control is used to regulate the operating speed of the motor working at the resonant frequency, hence retaining the maximum power transmission efficiency. Both finite element analysis and experimentation are given to verify the validity of the proposed wireless DC motor drive system. For exemplification, three different resonant frequencies, namely 60 kHz, 100 kHz and 140 kHz, are selected to energize three DC motors. Under the burst fire control method, the speed of each motor can be regulated separately and the wireless power transfer (WPT) system can achieve the measured power transmission efficiency of about 60%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Over the past two decades, a striking increase in the number of people with metabolic syndrome (MS) has taken place worldwide. With the elevated risk of not only diabetes but also cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, there is urgent need for strategies to prevent this emerging global epidemic. The present study was undertaken to investigate the effects of dietary eicosapentaenoic acid-enriched phospholipid (EPA-PL) on metabolic disorders. Methods: Male C57BL/6J mice (n = 7) were fed one of the following 4 diets for a period of 4 weeks: 1) a modified AIN- 96G diet with 5% corn oil (control diet); 2) a high fat (20%, wt/wt) and high fructose (20%, wt/wt) diet (HF diet); 3) the HF diet containing 1% SOY-PL (SOY-PL diet); 4) the HF diet containing 1% EPA-PL (EPA-PL diet). The oral glucose tolerance test was performed. Plasma TG, TC, glucose, NEFA, insulin, leptin, adiponectin, TNF-α and IL-6 levels were assessed. In addition, hepatic lipid levels, lipogenic, and lipidolytic enzyme activities and gene expressions were evaluated. Results: Both EPA-PL and SOY-PL significantly inhibited body weight gain and white adipose tissue accumulation, alleviated glucose intolerance, and lowered both serum fasting glucose and NEFA levels substantially. Only EPA-PL significantly reduced serum TNF-α and IL-6 levels, and increased serum adiponectin level. EPA-PL was more effective in reducing hepatic and serum TG and TC levels than SOY-PL. Both EPA-PL and SOY-PL reduced the activities of hepatic lipogenic enzymes, such as FAS and G6PDH, but only EPA-PL significantly increased CPT, peroxisomal β-oxidation enzymes activities and CPT-1a mRNA level. Alterations of hepatic lipogenic gene expressions, such as FAS, G6PDH, ACC, SCD-1 and SREBP-1c were consistent with changes in related enzyme activities. Conclusions: According to our study, EPA-PL supplementation was efficacious in suppressing body fat accumulation, and alleviating insulin resistance and hepatic steatosis by modulating the secretion of adipocytokines and inflammatory cytokines, suppression of SREBP-1c mediated lipogenesis and enhancement of fatty acid β-oxidation. These results demonstrate that EPA-PL is a novel beneficial food component for the prevention and improvement of metabolic disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With ever-increasing concerns on our enviromnent, there is a fast growing interest in electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid EVs (REVs) from automakers, governments, and customers. As electric drives are the core of both EVs and HEVs, it is a pressing need for researchers to develop advanced electric-drive systems. In this paper, an overview of permanent-magnet (PM) brushless (BL) drives for EVs and HEVs is presented, with emphasis on machine topologies, drive operations, and control strategies. Then, three major research directions of the PM BL drive systems are elaborated, namely, the magnetic-geared outer-rotor PM BL drive system, the PM BL integrated starter-generator system, and the PM BL electric variable-transmission system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article cites a case report of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) sepsis and pneumonia in a postpartum patient. Computed tomography of the chest revealed multiple widely distributed nodules and bilateral infiltrates with central cavitations. Sputum, blood, urine and episiotomy site cultures grew MRSA. It was concluded that community-acquired MRSA was an emerging problem, which may be presented as skin and soft tissue infections.

In this paper, a new chaotic pulse width modulation (PWM) scheme is proposed and implemented to reduce the conducted electromagnetic interference (EMI) in motor drives. The key is the use of logistic mapping to chaoize a frequency-modulated signal which then modulates the carrier frequency. Compared with the sinusoidal PWM and random PWM, the proposed scheme not only suppresses the peaky EMI, but also avoids the occurrence of low-order noises and mechanical resonance. Both simulation and experimental results are given to support the validity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Shenxiong glucose injection (SGI), a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) preparation, has been widely used for the treatment of various cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases for many years. We assessed the potential influences of SGI on the activities of six CYP enzymes (CYP1A2, CYP2C11, CYP2C19, CYP2D4, CYP2E1, and CYP3A2) and on the pharmacokinetics of warfarin in rats. We compared plasma pharmacokinetics of six probe drugs (caffeine/CYP1A2, tolbutamide/CYP2C11, omeprazole/CYP2C19, metoprolol/CYP2D4, chlorzoxazone/CYP2E1, and midazolam/CYP3A2) and of warfarin between control and SGI-pretreated groups, to estimate the effect on the relative activities of the six isozymes and warfarin metabolism. There were no significant differences in the pharmacokinetic parameters of caffeine, omeprazole, metoprolol, chlorzoxazone, and midazolam between the SGI-pretreated and control groups. However, many pharmacokinetic parameters of tolbutamide in SGI-pretreated rats were affected significantly (p < 0.05), and indicated tolbutamide metabolism in the former group was markedly slower. Moreover, SGI reduced the clearance of warfarin. These results suggested SGI showed no effects on the enzyme activities of rat CYP1A2, CYP2C19, CYP2D4, CYP2E1, and CYP3A2, but inhibited the enzyme activity of CYP2C11, and improved the blood concentration of warfarin. This suggests that the dose of warfarin may need be adjusted when co-administrated with SGI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Observational studies have suggested an association between human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and the risk of prostate cancer (PCa). However, the association between HPV infection and the risk of PCa remains unclear. The aim of the present meta-analysis study was to investigate whether HPV serves a role in increasing the risk of PCa. Relevant previous studies up to May 2015 were searched in PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane library, Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure, China Wan Fang database and China Biomedical Literature Database. A random-effects model or fixed-effects model was employed to determine odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs), when appropriate. Heterogeneity was evaluated using Q and I² statistical analysis. A total of 24 case-control studies involving 971 patients and 1,085 controls were investigated to estimate the association between HPV infection and PCa risk. The pooled estimate for OR was 2.27 (95% CI, 1.40-3.69). Stratified pooled analyses were subsequently performed according to the HPV detection methods, geographical regions, publication years and types of tissue. Sensitivity analysis based on various exclusion criteria maintained the significance with respect to PCa individually. Little evidence of publication bias was observed. The meta-analysis suggested that HPV infection is associated with increasing risk of PCa, which indicated a potential pathogenetic link between HPV and PCa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The primary cause of tumor-associated mortality in prostate cancer (PCa) remains distant metastasis. The dissemination of tumor cells from the primary tumor to distant sites through the bloodstream cannot be detected early by standard imaging methods. Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) represent an effective prognostic and predictive biomarker, which are able to monitor efficacy of adjuvant therapies, detect early development of metastases, and finally, assess therapeutic responses of advanced disease earlier than traditional diagnostic methods. In addition, since repeated tissue biopsies are invasive, costly and not always feasible, the assessment of tumor characteristics on CTCs, by a peripheral blood sample as a liquid biopsy, represents an attractive opportunity. The implementation of molecular and genomic characterization of CTCs may contribute to improve the treatment selection and thus, to move toward more precise diagnosis and therapy in PCa. The present study summarizes the current advances in CTC enrichment and detection strategies and reviews how CTCs may contribute to significant insights in the metastatic process, as well as how they may be utilized in clinical application in PCa. Although it is proposed that CTCs may offer insights into the prognosis and management of PCa, there are a number of challenges in the study of circulating tumor cells, and their clinical utility remains under investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The automotive exhaust-based thermoelectric generator integrated with a three-way catalytic converter (TWC) can convert the thermal energy of exhaust gas into an electric energy, and solve the compatibility issues with an exhaust system. More power can be generated when the temperature of heat exchanger is higher. However, the performances of TWC are also affected by the temperature of the heat exchanger. To get more power generation and reduce the impact on the TWC, three heat exchangers with different section shapes were simulated and corresponding surface temperature and back-pressure were compared. Then three kinds of fins were employed in heat exchangers to figure out the effects. Finally, the results showed that the section shape had no obvious effect on the distribution of temperature and pressure in heat exchangers, but the arrangement of the fins inside the heat exchanger had a heavy impact on the performance of the heat exchanger. According to the simulation results, the heat exchanger in which the direction of fins was skewed to the streamwise could get higher temperature and output power at 192.96 W. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The transformation of prostate cancer from an androgen-dependent state to an androgen-independent state is a lethal progression. Alterations in transcriptional programs are the basis of prostate cancer deterioration. The androgen receptor (AR), a member of the nuclear hormone receptor superfamily, mediates prostate cancer progression by functioning primarily through the ligand-activated transcription of target genes. Therefore, a detailed map of AR-regulated genes and AR genomic binding sites is required for hormone-naive and castration-resistant prostate cancer. Through the use of chromatin immunoprecipitation in combination with direct sequencing, 4,143 AR binding sites were defined in the LNCaP androgen-sensitive prostate cancer cell line. Using the same method, 2,380 AR binding regions were identified in the LNCaP-AI long-term androgen-deprived cell line. Approximately 8.5% (354/4,143) of the binding regions were mapped to within 2 kb of the transcription start site (TSS) in the LNCaP cells, while ~12.6% (299/2,380) were mapped to within 2 kb of the TSS in the LNCaP-AI cells. In total, the study mapped 2,796 genes in LNCaP cells and 1,854 genes in LNCaP-AI cells. The cell lines shared 789 mutual genes. In addition, gene ontology (GO) analysis of the genes revealed that there was a notable overlap between the GO terms in the LNCaP cells and LNCaP-AI cells. However, GO terms within the biological process domain that were only observed in the LNCaP-AI cells included the reproduction process, death, immune system process, multi-organism process, pigmentation and viral reproduction. The major genes in the different GO terms were TNFAIP8, RTN4, APP and SYNE1. Through analyzing the AR binding sites in the two cell types, the present study aimed to map potential AR-regulated genes, identify their associated transcription factors and provide a new perspective on the biological processes in the development of prostate cancer. The results provided a valuable data set that furthered the understanding of the genome-wide analysis of AR binding sites in prostate cancer cells, which may be exploited for the development of novel prostate cancer therapeutic strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In Henan, China, first-line antiretroviral treatment (ART) was implemented early in a large number of treatment-experienced patients who were more likely to have a drug resistance. Therefore, we investigated the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-I drug resistance profiles among patients in Henan who experienced virological failure to ART. Method: A cross-sectional survey was administered in 10 major epidemic cities from May 2010 to October 2011. Adult patients who experienced virological failure (virus load ≥1,000copies/mL) with >1 year of first-line antiretroviral treatment consented to provide blood for genotype resistance testing. The clinical and demographic data were obtained from the patients' medical records. Logistic regression analysis was performed to determine the factors associated with ≥1 significant drug resistance mutation. Results: We included 3,235 patients with integral information and valid genotypic resistance data. The city, age, CD4 counts, virus load, treatment duration, and World Health Organization stage were associated with drug resistance, and 64.76% of patients acquired drug resistance. The nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI), non-(N)NRTI, and protease inhibitor resistance mutations were found in 50.26, 63.12, and 1.30% of subjects, respectively. Thymidine analogue mutations, NNRTI and even multidrug resistance complex were quite common in this patient cohort. Conclusion: Multiple and complex patterns of HIV-1 drug resistance mutations were identified among individuals who experienced virological failure to first-line ART in Henan, China during 2010-2011. Therefore, timely virological monitoring, therapy adjustments, and more varieties of drugs and individualized treatment should be immediately considered in this patient population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]