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- Biosensor (25)
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Shakedown analysis of two dimensional structures by an edge-based smoothed finite element method
(2010)
A procedure for the evaluation of the failure probability of elastic-plastic thin shell structures is presented. The procedure involves a deterministic limit and shakedown analysis for each probabilistic iteration which is based on the kinematical approach and the use the exact Ilyushin yield surface. Based on a direct definition of the limit state function, the non-linear problems may be efficiently solved by using the First and Second Order Reliabiblity Methods (Form/SORM). This direct approach reduces considerably the necessary knowledge of uncertain technological input data, computing costs and the numerical error. In: Computational plasticity / ed. by Eugenio Onate. Dordrecht: Springer 2007. VII, 265 S. (Computational Methods in Applied Sciences ; 7) (COMPLAS IX. Part 1 . International Center for Numerical Methods in Engineering (CIMNE)). ISBN 978-1-402-06576-7 S. 186-189
Proceedings of the International Conference on Material Theory and Nonlinear Dynamics. MatDyn. Hanoi, Vietnam, Sept. 24-26, 2007, 8 p. In this paper, a method is introduced to determine the limit load of general shells using the finite element method. The method is based on an upper bound limit and shakedown analysis with elastic-perfectly plastic material model. A non-linear constrained optimisation problem is solved by using Newton’s method in conjunction with a penalty method and the Lagrangean dual method. Numerical investigation of a pipe bend subjected to bending moments proves the effectiveness of the algorithm.
Molecular-genetic identification of emerged novel invasive pathogens of Asiatic Elm Ulmus pumila L
(2014)
The dwarf elm Ulmus pumila L. (Ulmaceae) is one of indigenous species of flora in Kazakhstan and forms a basis of dendroflora in virtually all settlements of the region. In the past decade, multiple outbreaks of previously unknown diseases of the small-leaved elm have been registered. In our study, by the molecular-genetic analysis it was found that the pathogens responsible for the outbreaks are microfungi belonging to the genus Fusarium – F. solani and F. oxysporum. The nucleotide sequences (ITS regions) isolated from the diseased trees showed very high similarity with the GenBank control numbers EU625403.1 and FJ478128.1 (100.0 and 99.0 % respectively). Oncoming research will focus on the search of natural microbial antagonists of the discovered phytopathogens.
At the present time, one of the most serious environmental problems of Central Asia and South Kazakhstan is the ongoing large-scale deterioration of principal urban tree populations. Several major centers of massive spread of invasive plant pests have been found in urban dendroflora of this region. The degree of damage of seven most wide-spread aboriginal tree species was found to range from 21.4±1.1 to 85.4±1.8%. In particular, the integrity of the native communities of sycamore (Platanus spp.), willow (Salix spp.), poplar (Populus spp.) and elm (Ulmus spp.) is highly endangered. Our taxonomic analysis of the most dangerous tree pests of the region has revealed them as neobiontic xylophilous insects such as Cossus cossus L. (Order: Lepidoptera L.) Monochamus urussovi Fisch., Monochamus sutor L., Acanthocinus aedelis L. and Ñetonia aureate L. (Order: Coleoptera L.). We relate the origin of this threatening trend with the import of industrial wood in the mid 90s of the last century that was associated with high degree of the constructional work in the region. Because of the absence of efficient natural predators of the pest species, the application of microbiological methods of the pest control and limitation is suggested.
Simultaneous detection of cyanide and heavy metals for environmental analysis by means of µISEs
(2010)
In environmental analysis, cyanide and heavy metals play an important role, because these substances are highly toxic for biological systems. They can lead to chronic and acute diseases. Due to the chemical properties of cyanide it is frequently used for industrial processes such as extraction of silver and gold. Heavy metals can be found as trace elements in nature and are often applied in industries e.g., galvanization processes. Up to now, cyanide and heavy metals can be detected by several sensors separately and their detection is often limited to laboratory investigations. In this publication, with regard to an in situ analysis, a new miniaturized silicon-based sensor system for the simultaneous detection of cyanide and heavy metals in aqueous solutions is presented that is based on chalcogenide glass-based micro ion-selective electrodes (µISEs). The µISEs are incorporated into a specially designed measuring system for the simultaneous detection of heavy metals and cyanide in solutions and validated by simultaneous measurements of Cu2+- and CN−-ions, Cd2+- and CN−- ions and Pb2+- and CN−-ions. The particular sensor system has shown good sensor properties in the µ-molar ion-concentration range. For simultaneous measurements in complex heavy metal and cyanide solutions an intelligent software using fuzzy logic is discussed.
Various planar technologies are employed for developing solid-state sensors having low cost, small size and high reproducibility; thin- and thick-film technologies are most suitable for such productions. Screen-printing is especially suitable due to its simplicity, low-cost, high reproducibility and efficiency in large-scale production. This technology enables the deposition of a thick layer and allows precise pattern control. Moreover, this is a highly economic technology, saving large amounts of the used inks. In the course of repetitions of the film-deposition procedure there is no waste of material due to additivity of this thick-film technology. Finally, the thick films can be easily and quickly deposited on inexpensive substrates. In this contribution, thick-film ion-selective electrodes based on ionophores as well as crystalline ion-selective materials dedicated for potentiometric measurements are demonstrated. Analytical parameters of these sensors are comparable with those reported for conventional potentiometric electrodes. All mentioned thick-film strip electrodes have been totally fabricated in only one, fully automated thickfilm technology, without any additional manual, chemical or electrochemical steps. In all cases simple, inexpensive, commercially available materials, i.e. flexible, plastic substrates and easily cured polymer-based pastes were used.
Biocompatibility, flexibility and durability make polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) membranes top candidates in biomedical applications. CellDrum technology uses large area, <10 µm thin membranes as mechanical stress sensors of thin cell layers. For this to be successful, the properties (thickness, temperature, dust, wrinkles, etc.) must be precisely controlled. The following parameters of membrane fabrication by means of the Floating-on-Water (FoW) method were investigated: (1) PDMS volume, (2) ambient temperature, (3) membrane deflection and (4) membrane mechanical compliance. Significant differences were found between all PDMS volumes and thicknesses tested (p < 0.01). They also differed from the calculated values. At room temperatures between 22 and 26 °C, significant differences in average thickness values were found, as well as a continuous decrease in thicknesses within a 4 °C temperature elevation. No correlation was found between the membrane thickness groups (between 3–4 µm) in terms of deflection and compliance. We successfully present a fabrication method for thin bio-functionalized membranes in conjunction with a four-step quality management system. The results highlight the importance of tight regulation of production parameters through quality control. The use of membranes described here could also become the basis for material testing on thin, viscous layers such as polymers, dyes and adhesives, which goes far beyond biological applications.
Advances in polymer science have significantly increased polymer applications in life sciences. We report the use of free-standing, ultra-thin polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) membranes, called CellDrum, as cell culture substrates for an in vitro wound model. Dermal fibroblast monolayers from 28- and 88-year-old donors were cultured on CellDrums. By using stainless steel balls, circular cell-free areas were created in the cell layer (wounding). Sinusoidal strain of 1 Hz, 5% strain, was applied to membranes for 30 min in 4 sessions. The gap circumference and closure rate of un-stretched samples (controls) and stretched samples were monitored over 4 days to investigate the effects of donor age and mechanical strain on wound closure. A significant decrease in gap circumference and an increase in gap closure rate were observed in trained samples from younger donors and control samples from older donors. In contrast, a significant decrease in gap closure rate and an increase in wound circumference were observed in the trained samples from older donors. Through these results, we propose the model of a cell monolayer on stretchable CellDrums as a practical tool for wound healing research. The combination of biomechanical cell loading in conjunction with analyses such as gene/protein expression seems promising beyond the scope published here.
In this study, flexible calorimetric gas sensors are developed for specificdetection of gaseous hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) over a wide concentrationrange, which is used in sterilization processes for aseptic packaging industry.The flexibility of these sensors is an advantage for identifying the chemical components of the sterilant on the corners of the food boxes, so-called “coldspots”, as critical locations in aseptic packaging, which are of great importance. These sensors are fabricated on flexible polyimide films by means of thin-film technique. Thin layers of titanium and platinum have been deposited on polyimide to define the conductive structures of the sensors. To detect the high-temperature evaporated H₂O₂, a differential temperature set-up is proposed. The sensors are evaluated in a laboratory-scaled sterilizationsystem to simulate the sterilization process. The concentration range of the evaporated H₂O₂ from 0 to 7.7% v/v was defined and the sensors have successfully detected high as well as low H₂O₂ concentrations with a sensitivity of 5.04 °C/% v/v. The characterizations of the sensors confirm their precise fabrication, high sensitivity and the novelty of low H₂O₂ concentration detections for future inline monitoring of food-package sterilization.
This work is an attempt to answer the question: How to use convex programming in shakedown analysis of structures made of materials with temperature-dependent properties. Based on recently established shakedown theorems and formulations, a dual relationship between upper and lower bounds of the shakedown limit load is found, an algorithmfor shakedown analysis is proposed. While the original problem is neither convex nor concave, the algorithm presented here has the advantage of employing convex programming tools.
The steel industry in the European Union (EU), important for the economy as a whole, faces various challenges. These are inter alia volatile prices for relevant input factors, uncertainties concerning the regulation of CO₂-emissions and market shocks caused by the recently introduced additional import duties in the US, which is an important sales market. We examine primary and secondary effects of these challenges on the steel industry in the EU and their impacts on European and global level. Developing and using a suitable meta-model, we analyze the competitiveness of key steel producing countries with respect to floor prices depending on selected cost factors and draw conclusions on the impacts in the trade of steel on emissions, energy demand, on the involvement of developing countries in the value chain as well on the need for innovations to avoid relocations of production. Hence, our study contributes to the assessment of sustainable industrial development, which is aimed by the Sustainability Development Goal “Build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization and foster innovation countries”. By applying information on country-specific Human Development Indexes (reflecting aspects of life expectancy, education, and per capita income), we show that relocating energy-intensive industries from the EU may not only increase global energy demand and CO₂-emissions, but may also be to the disadvantage of developing countries.
Using scenarios is vital in identifying and specifying measures for successfully transforming the energy system. Such transformations can be particularly challenging and require the support of a broader set of stakeholders. Otherwise, there will be opposition in the form of reluctance to adopt the necessary technologies. Usually, processes for considering stakeholders' perspectives are very time-consuming and costly. In particular, there are uncertainties about how to deal with modifications in the scenarios. In principle, new consulting processes will be required. In our study, we show how multi-criteria decision analysis can be used to analyze stakeholders' attitudes toward transition paths. Since stakeholders differ regarding their preferences and time horizons, we employ a multi-criteria decision analysis approach to identify which stakeholders will support or oppose a transition path. We provide a flexible template for analyzing stakeholder preferences toward transition paths. This flexibility comes from the fact that our multi-criteria decision aid-based approach does not involve intensive empirical work with stakeholders. Instead, it involves subjecting assumptions to robustness analysis, which can help identify options to influence stakeholders' attitudes toward transitions.
Socio-technical scenarios for energy-intensive industries: the future of steel production in Germany
(2019)
Engineering of functional interfaces / Patrick Wagner ; Theodor Doll ; Michael J. Schöning (eds.)
(2014)
We report on the synthesis and CO gas-sensing properties of mesoporous tin(IV) oxides (SnO2). For the synthesis cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTABr) was used as a structure-directing agent; the resulting SnO2 powders were applied as films to commercially available sensor substrates by drop coating. Nitrogen physisorption shows specific surface areas up to 160 m2·g-1 and mean pore diameters of about 4 nm, as verified by TEM. The film conductance was measured in dependence on the CO concentration in humid synthetic air at a constant temperature of 300 °C. The sensors show a high sensitivity at low CO concentrations and turn out to be largely insensitive towards changes in the relative humidity. We compare the materials with commercially available SnO2-based sensors.
Online-Messsysteme für die automatisierte Charakterisierung von feldeffektbasierten Biosensoren
(2007)
Handheld measurement device for field-effect sensor structures: Practical evaluation and limitations
(2007)
Chemical imaging systems allow the visualisation of the distribution of chemical species on the sensor surface. This work represents a new flexible approach of read out in a light-addressable potentiometric sensor (LAPS) with the help of a digital light processing (DLP) set-up. The DLP, known well for video projectors, consists of a mirror-array MEMS device which allows fast and flexible generation of light patterns. With the help of these light patterns the sensor surface of the LAPS device can be read out sequentially in a raster like scheme (scanning LAPS). The DLP approach has several advantages compared to conventional scanning LAPS set-ups, e.g., the spot size, the shape and the intensity of the light pointer can be changed easily and no mechanical movement is necessary, which reduces the size of the set-up and increases the stability and speed of measurement.
This work describes the novel combination of the light-addressable electrode (LAE) and the light-addressable potentiometric sensor (LAPS) into a microsystem set-up. Both the LAE as well as the LAPS shares the principle of addressing the active spot by means of a light beam. This enables both systems to manipulate resp. to detect an analyte with a high spatial resolution. Hence, combining both principles into a single set-up enables the active stimulation e.g., by means of electrolysis and a simultaneous observation e.g., the response of an entrapped biological cell by detection of extracellular pH changes. The work will describe the principles of both technologies and the necessary steps to integrate them into a single set-up. Furthermore, examples of application and operation of such systems will be presented.
The light-addressable potentiometric sensor (LAPS) has the unique feature to address different regions of a sensor surface without the need of complex structures. Measurements at different locations on the sensor surface can be performed in a common analyte solution, which distinctly simplifies the fluidic set-up. However, the measurement in a single analyte chamber prevents the application of different drugs or different concentrations of a drug to each measurement spot at the same time as in the case of multi-reservoir-based set-ups. In this work, the authors designed a LAPS-based set-up for cell culture screening that utilises magnetic beads loaded with the endotoxin (lipopolysaccharides, LPS), to generate a spatially distributed gradient of analyte concentration. Different external magnetic fields can be adjusted to move the magnetic beads loaded with a specific drug within the measurement cell. By recording the metabolic activities of a cell layer cultured on top of the LAPS surface, this work shows the possibility to apply different concentrations of a sample along the LAPS measurement spots within a common analyte solution.
The development of new interfaces for (bio-)chemical sensors requires comprehensive analyses and testing. The light-addressable potentiometric sensor (LAPS) can be used as a platform to investigate the sensitivity of a newly developed interface towards (bio-)chemical agents. LAPS measurements are spatially resolved by utilisation of focused light beams to define individual measurement spots. In this work, a new digitally modulated LAPS set-up based on an FPGA design will be introduced to increase the number of measurement spots, to shorten the measurement time and to improve the measurement accuracy.
Chemical imaging systems allow the visualisation of the distribution of chemical species on the sensor surface. This work represents a new flexible approach to read out light-addressable potentiometric sensors (LAPS) with the help of a digital light processing (DLP) set-up. The DLP, known well for video projectors, consists of a mirror-array MEMS device, which allows fast and flexible generation of light patterns. With the help of these light patterns, the sensor surface of the LAPS device can be addressed. The DLP approach has several advantages compared to conventional LAPS set-ups, e.g., the spot size and the shape of the light pointer can be changed easily and no mechanical movement is necessary, which reduces the size of the set-up and increases the stability and speed of the measurement. In addition, the modulation frequency and intensity of the light beam are important parameters of the LAPS set-up. Within this work, the authors will discuss two different ways of light modulation by the DLP set-up, investigate the influence of different modulation frequencies and different light intensities as well as demonstrate the scanning capabilities of the new set-up by pH mapping on the sensor surface.
This study evaluates neuromechanical control and muscle-tendon interaction during energy storage and dissipation tasks in hypergravity. During parabolic flights, while 17 subjects performed drop jumps (DJs) and drop landings (DLs), electromyography (EMG) of the lower limb muscles was combined with in vivo fascicle dynamics of the gastrocnemius medialis, two-dimensional (2D) kinematics, and kinetics to measure and analyze changes in energy management. Comparisons were made between movement modalities executed in hypergravity (1.8 G) and gravity on ground (1 G). In 1.8 G, ankle dorsiflexion, knee joint flexion, and vertical center of mass (COM) displacement are lower in DJs than in DLs; within each movement modality, joint flexion amplitudes and COM displacement demonstrate higher values in 1.8 G than in 1 G. Concomitantly, negative peak ankle joint power, vertical ground reaction forces, and leg stiffness are similar between both movement modalities (1.8 G). In DJs, EMG activity in 1.8 G is lower during the COM deceleration phase than in 1 G, thus impairing quasi-isometric fascicle behavior. In DLs, EMG activity before and during the COM deceleration phase is higher, and fascicles are stretched less in 1.8 G than in 1 G. Compared with the situation in 1 G, highly task-specific neuromuscular activity is diminished in 1.8 G, resulting in fascicle lengthening in both movement modalities. Specifically, in DJs, a high magnitude of neuromuscular activity is impaired, resulting in altered energy storage. In contrast, in DLs, linear stiffening of the system due to higher neuromuscular activity combined with lower fascicle stretch enhances the buffering function of the tendon, and thus the capacity to safely dissipate energy.
Stretch-shortening type actions are characterized by lengthening of the pre-activated muscle-tendon unit (MTU) in the eccentric phase immediately followed by muscle shortening. Under 1 g, pre-activity before and muscle activity after ground contact, scale muscle stiffness, which is crucial for the recoil properties of the MTU in the subsequent push-off. This study aimed to examine the neuro-mechanical coupling of the stretch-shortening cycle in response to gravity levels ranging from 0.1 to 2 g. During parabolic flights, 17 subjects performed drop jumps while electromyography (EMG) of the lower limb muscles was combined with ultrasound images of the gastrocnemius medialis, 2D kinematics and kinetics to depict changes in energy management and performance. Neuro-mechanical coupling in 1 g was characterized by high magnitudes of pre-activity and eccentric muscle activity allowing an isometric muscle behavior during ground contact. EMG during pre-activity and the concentric phase systematically increased from 0.1 to 1 g. Below 1 g the EMG in the eccentric phase was diminished, leading to muscle lengthening and reduced MTU stretches. Kinetic energy at take-off and performance were decreased compared to 1 g. Above 1 g, reduced EMG in the eccentric phase was accompanied by large MTU and muscle stretch, increased joint flexion amplitudes, energy loss and reduced performance. The energy outcome function established by linear mixed model reveals that the central nervous system regulates the extensor muscles phase- and load-specifically. In conclusion, neuro-mechanical coupling appears to be optimized in 1 g. Below 1 g, the energy outcome is compromised by reduced muscle stiffness. Above 1 g, loading progressively induces muscle lengthening, thus facilitating energy dissipation.
Detection of triacetone triperoxide using temperature cycled metal-oxide semiconductor gas sensors
(2015)
Single-photon emission tomography (SPET) with the amino acid analogue l-3-[123I]iodo-α-methyl tyrosine (IMT) is helpful in the diagnosis and monitoring of cerebral gliomas. Radiolabelled amino acids seem to reflect tumour infiltration more specifically than conventional methods like magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography. Automatic tumour delineation based on maximal tumour uptake may cause an overestimation of mean tumour uptake and an underestimation of tumour extension in tumours with circumscribed peaks. The aim of this study was to develop a program for tumour delineation and calculation of mean tumour uptake which takes into account the mean background activity and is thus optimised to the problem of tumour definition in IMT SPET. Using the frequency distribution of pixel intensities of the tomograms a program was developed which automatically detects a reference brain region and draws an isocontour region around the tumour taking into account mean brain radioactivity. Tumour area and tumour/brain ratios were calculated. A three-compartment phantom was simulated to test the program. The program was applied to IMT SPET studies of 20 patients with cerebral gliomas and was compared to the results of manual analysis by three different investigators. Activity ratios and chamber extension of the phantom were correctly calculated by the automatic analysis. A method based on image maxima alone failed to determine chamber extension correctly. Manual region of interest analysis in patient studies resulted in a mean inter-observer standard deviation of 8.7%±6.1% (range 2.7%–25.0%). The mean value of the results of the manual analysis showed a significant correlation to the results of the automatic analysis (r = 0.91, P<0.0001 for the uptake ratio; r = 0.87, P<0.0001 for the tumour area). We conclude that the algorithm proposed simplifies the calculation of uptake ratios and may be used for observer-independent evaluation of IMT SPET studies. Three-dimensional tumour recognition and transfer to co-registered morphological images based on this program may be useful for the planning of surgical and radiation treatment.
Animal experiments and preliminary results in humans have indicated alterations of hippocampal muscarinic acetylcholine receptors (mAChR) in temporal lobe epilepsy. Patients with temporal lobe epilepsy often present with a reduction in hippocampal volume. The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of hippocampal atrophy on the quantification of mAChR with single photon emission tomography (SPET) in patients with temporal lobe epilepsy. Cerebral uptake of the muscarinic cholinergic antagonist [123I]4-iododexetimide (IDex) was investigated by SPET in patients suffering from temporal lobe epilepsy of unilateral (n=6) or predominantly unilateral (n=1) onset. Regions of interest were drawn on co-registered magnetic resonance images. Hippocampal volume was determined in these regions and was used to correct the SPET results for partial volume effects. A ratio of hippocampal IDex binding on the affected side to that on the unaffected side was used to detect changes in muscarinic cholinergic receptor density. Before partial volume correction a decrease in hippocampal IDex binding on the focus side was found in each patient. After partial volume no convincing differences remained. Our results indicate that the reduction in hippocampal IDex binding in patients with epilepsy is due to a decrease in hippocampal volume rather than to a decrease in receptor concentration.
The monolithic scintillator block approach for gamma detection in the Positron Emission Tomography (PET) avoids estimating Depth of Interaction (DOI), reduces dead zones in detector and diminishes costs of detector production. Neural Networks (NN) are very efficient to determine the entrance point of a gamma incident on a scintillator block. This paper presents results on the robustness of the spatial resolution as a function of the random fraction in the data, temperature and HV fluctuations. This is important when implementing the method in a real scanner. Measurements were done with two Hamamatsu S8550 APD arrays, glued on a 20 Ã 20 Ã 10 mm3 monolithic LSO crystal block.
While plate fixation of proximal ulna fractures might lead to superior clinical results compared to tension band wiring, regular plates represent an established risk factor for wound complications. The olecranon double plates (Medartis, Basel, CH) might decrease complications related to the osteosynthesis because of their low profile and better anatomical fit. This study aimed to evaluate the biomechanical performance and clinical results of the olecranon double plates.
A capacitive electrolyte-insulator-semiconductor (EISCAP) biosensor modified with Tobacco mosaic virus (TMV) particles for the detection of acetoin is presented. The enzyme acetoin reductase (AR) was immobilized on the surface of the EISCAP using TMV particles as nanoscaffolds. The study focused on the optimization of the TMV-assisted AR immobilization on the Ta 2 O 5 -gate EISCAP surface. The TMV-assisted acetoin EISCAPs were electrochemically characterized by means of leakage-current, capacitance-voltage, and constant-capacitance measurements. The TMV-modified transducer surface was studied via scanning electron microscopy.
Photoelectrochemical (PEC) biosensors are a rather novel type of biosensors thatutilizelighttoprovideinformationaboutthecompositionofananalyte,enablinglight-controlled multi-analyte measurements. For enzymatic PEC biosensors,amperometric detection principles are already known in the literature. In con-trast, there is only a little information on H+-ion sensitive PEC biosensors. Inthis work, we demonstrate the detection of H+ions emerged by H+-generatingenzymes, exemplarily demonstrated with penicillinase as a model enzyme on atitanium dioxide photoanode. First, we describe the pH sensitivity of the sensorand study possible photoelectrocatalytic reactions with penicillin. Second, weshow the enzymatic PEC detection of penicillin.
In lab-on-chip systems, electrodes are important for the manipulation (e.g., cell stimulation, electrolysis) within such systems. An alternative to commonly used electrode structures can be a light-addressable electrode. Here, due to the photoelectric effect, the conducting area can be adjusted by modification of the illumination area which enables a flexible control of the electrode. In this work, titanium dioxide based light-addressable electrodes are fabricated by a sol–gel technique and a spin-coating process, to deposit a thin film on a fluorine-doped tin oxide glass. To characterize the fabricated electrodes, the thickness, and morphological structure are measured by a profilometer and a scanning electron microscope. For the electrochemical behavior, the dark current and the photocurrent are determined for various film thicknesses. For the spatial resolution behavior, the dependency of the photocurrent while changing the area of the illuminated area is studied. Furthermore, the addressing of single fluid compartments in a three-chamber system, which is added to the electrode, is demonstrated.
In this review article, we are going to present an overview on possible applications of light-addressable electrodes (LAE) as actuator/manipulation devices besides classical electrode structures. For LAEs, the electrode material consists of a semiconductor. Illumination with a light source with the appropiate wavelength leads to the generation of electron-hole pairs which can be utilized for further photoelectrochemical reaction. Due to recent progress in light-projection technologies, highly dynamic and flexible illumination patterns can be generated, opening new possibilities for light-addressable electrodes. A short introduction on semiconductor–electrolyte interfaces with light stimulation is given together with electrode-design approaches. Towards applications, the stimulation of cells with different electrode materials and fabrication designs is explained, followed by analyte-manipulation strategies and spatially resolved photoelectrochemical deposition of different material types.
Immunosorbent turnip vein clearing virus (TVCV) particles displaying the IgG-binding domains D and E of Staphylococcus aureus protein A (PA) on every coat protein (CP) subunit (TVCVPA) were purified from plants via optimized and new protocols. The latter used polyethylene glycol (PEG) raw precipitates, from which virions were selectively re-solubilized in reverse PEG concentration gradients. This procedure improved the integrity of both TVCVPA and the wild-type subgroup 3 tobamovirus. TVCVPA could be loaded with more than 500 IgGs per virion, which mediated the immunocapture of fluorescent dyes, GFP, and active enzymes. Bi-enzyme ensembles of cooperating glucose oxidase and horseradish peroxidase were tethered together on the TVCVPA carriers via a single antibody type, with one enzyme conjugated chemically to its Fc region, and the other one bound as a target, yielding synthetic multi-enzyme complexes. In microtiter plates, the TVCVPA-displayed sugar-sensing system possessed a considerably increased reusability upon repeated testing, compared to the IgG-bound enzyme pair in the absence of the virus. A high coverage of the viral adapters was also achieved on Ta2O5 sensor chip surfaces coated with a polyelectrolyte interlayer, as a prerequisite for durable TVCVPA-assisted electrochemical biosensing via modularly IgG-assembled sensor enzymes.
Dynamic retinal vessel analysis (DVA) provides a non-invasive way to assess microvascular function in patients and potentially to improve predictions of individual cardiovascular (CV) risk. The aim of our study was to use untargeted machine learning on DVA in order to improve CV mortality prediction and identify corresponding response alterations.
During rapid deceleration of the body, tendons buffer part of the elongation of the muscle-tendon unit (MTU), enabling safe energy dissipation via eccentric muscle contraction. Yet, the influence of changes in tendon stiffness within the physiological range upon these lengthening contractions is unknown. This study aimed to examine the effect of training-induced stiffening of the Achilles tendon on triceps surae muscle-tendon behavior during a landing task. Twenty-one male subjects were assigned to either a 10-week resistance-training program consisting of single-leg isometric plantarflexion (n = 11) or to a non-training control group (n = 10). Before and after the training period, plantarflexion force, peak Achilles tendon strain and stiffness were measured during isometric contractions, using a combination of dynamometry, ultrasound and kinematics data. Additionally, testing included a step-landing task, during which joint mechanics and lengths of gastrocnemius and soleus fascicles, Achilles tendon, and MTU were determined using synchronized ultrasound, kinematics and kinetics data collection. After training, plantarflexion strength and Achilles tendon stiffness increased (15 and 18%, respectively), and tendon strain during landing remained similar. Likewise, lengthening and negative work produced by the gastrocnemius MTU did not change detectably. However, in the training group, gastrocnemius fascicle length was offset (8%) to a longer length at touch down and, surprisingly, fascicle lengthening and velocity were reduced by 27 and 21%, respectively. These changes were not observed for soleus fascicles when accounting for variation in task execution between tests. These results indicate that a training-induced increase in tendon stiffness does not noticeably affect the buffering action of the tendon when the MTU is rapidly stretched. Reductions in gastrocnemius fascicle lengthening and lengthening velocity during landing occurred independently from tendon strain. Future studies are required to provide insight into the mechanisms underpinning these observations and their influence on energy dissipation.
Training-induced increase in Achilles tendon stiffness affects tendon strain pattern during running
(2019)
Background
During the stance phase of running, the elasticity of the Achilles tendon enables the utilisation of elastic energy and allows beneficial contractile conditions for the triceps surae muscles. However, the effect of changes in tendon mechanical properties induced by chronic loading is still poorly understood. We tested the hypothesis that a training-induced increase in Achilles tendon stiffness would result in reduced tendon strain during the stance phase of running, which would reduce fascicle strains in the triceps surae muscles, particularly in the mono-articular soleus.
Methods
Eleven subjects were assigned to a training group performing isometric singleleg plantarflexion contractions three times per week for ten weeks, and another ten subjects formed a control group. Before and after the training period, Achilles tendon stiffness was estimated, and muscle-tendon mechanics were assessed during running at preferred speed using ultrasonography, kinematics and kinetics.
Results
Achilles tendon stiffness increased by 18% (P <0:01) in the training group, but the associated reduction in strain seen during isometric contractions was not statistically significant. Tendon elongation during the stance phase of running was similar after training, but tendon recoil was reduced by 30% (P <0:01), while estimated tendon force remained unchanged. Neither gastrocnemius medialis nor soleus fascicle shortening during stance was affected by training.
Discussion
These results show that a training-induced increase in Achilles tendon
stiffness altered tendon behaviour during running. Despite training-induced changes in tendon mechanical properties and recoil behaviour, the data suggest that fascicle shortening patterns were preserved for the running speed that we examined. The asymmetrical changes in tendon strain patterns supports the notion that simple inseries models do not fully explain the mechanical output of the muscle-tendon unit during a complex task like running.
The compliant nature of distal limb muscle-tendon units is traditionally considered suboptimal in explosive movements when positive joint work is required. However, during accelerative running, ankle joint net mechanical work is positive. Therefore, this study aims to investigate how plantar flexor muscle-tendon behavior is modulated during fast accelerations. Eleven female sprinters performed maximum sprint accelerations from starting blocks, while gastrocnemius muscle fascicle lengths were estimated using ultrasonography. We combined motion analysis and ground reaction force measurements to assess lower limb joint kinematics and kinetics, and to estimate gastrocnemius muscle-tendon unit length during the first two acceleration steps. Outcome variables were resampled to the stance phase and averaged across three to five trials. Relevant scalars were extracted and analyzed using one-sample and two-sample t-tests, and vector trajectories were compared using statistical parametric mapping. We found that an uncoupling of muscle fascicle behavior from muscle-tendon unit behavior is effectively used to produce net positive mechanical work at the joint during maximum sprint acceleration. Muscle fascicles shortened throughout the first and second steps, while shortening occurred earlier during the first step, where negative joint work was lower compared with the second step. Elastic strain energy may be stored during dorsiflexion after touchdown since fascicles did not lengthen at the same time to dissipate energy. Thus, net positive work generation is accommodated by the reuse of elastic strain energy along with positive gastrocnemius fascicle work. Our results show a mechanism of how muscles with high in-series compliance can contribute to net positive joint work.
Bestimmung der metabolischen Aktivität von Mikroorganismen während des Biogasbildungsprozesses
(2009)
To study chemical and biological processes, spatially resolved determination of the concentrations of one or more analyte species is of distinct interest. With a light-addressable potentiometric sensor (LAPS), chemical images can be created, which visualize the concentration distribution above the sensor plate. One important challenge is to achieve a good lateral resolution in order to detect events that take place in a small and limited region. LAPS utilizes a focused light spot to address the measurement region. By moving this light spot along the semiconductor sensor plate, the concentration distribution can be observed. In this study, we show that utilizing a pulse as light excitation instead of a traditionally used continuously modulated light excitation, the lateral resolution can be improved by a factor of 6 or more.
A light-addressable potentiometric sensor (LAPS) can measure the concentration of one or several analytes at the sensor surface simultaneously in a spatially resolved manner. A modulated light pointer stimulates the semiconductor structure at the area of interest and a responding photocurrent can be read out. By simultaneous stimulation of several areas with light pointers of different modulation frequencies, the read out can be performed at the same time. With the new proposed controller electronic based on a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), it is possible to control the modulation frequencies, phase shifts, and light brightness of multiple light pointers independently and simultaneously. Thus, it is possible to investigate the frequency response of the sensor, and to examine the analyte concentration by the determination of the surface potential with the help of current/voltage curves and phase/voltage curves. Additionally, the ability to individually change the light intensities of each light pointer is used to perform signal correction.
Ein lichtadressierbarer potentiometrischer Sensor (LAPS) kann die Konzentration eines oder mehrerer Analyten ortsaufgelöst auf der Sensoroberfläche nachweisen. Dazu wird mit einer modulierten Lichtquelle die Halbleiterstruktur des zu untersuchenden Bereiches angeregt und ein entsprechender Photostrom ausgelesen. Durch gleichzeitige Anregung mehrere Bereiche durch Lichtquellen mit unterschiedlichen Modulationsfrequenzen können diese auch zeitgleich ausgelesen werden. Mit der neuen, hier vorgestellten Ansteuerungselektronik integriert in einem "Field Programmable Gate Array" (FPGA) ist es möglich, mehrere Leuchtquellen gleichzeitig mit unterschiedlichen, während der Laufzeit festlegbaren Frequenzen, Phasen und Lichtintensitäten zu betreiben. Somit kann das Frequenzverhalten des Sensors untersucht und die Konzentration des Analyten über das Oberflächenpotential mit Hilfe von Strom/Spannungs-Kurven und Phase/Spannungs-Kurven bestimmt werden.
Semiconductor-based chemical imaging sensors, like the light-addressable potentiometric sensor (LAPS) or the pH-imaging sensor based on a charge-coupled device (CCD), are becoming a powerful tool for label-free imaging of biological phenomena. We have proposed a polyion-based enzymatic membrane to develop an acetylcholine (ACh) imaging sensor for neural cell-activity observations. In this study, a CCD-type ACh-imaging sensor and a LAPS-type ACh-imaging sensor were fabricated and the prospect of both sensors was clarified by making a comparison of their basic characteristics.
Light-addressable potentiometric sensors (LAPS) are field-effect-based sensors. A modulated light source is used to define the particular measurement spot to perform spatially resolved measurements of chemical species and to generate chemical images. In this work, an organic-LED (OLED) display has been chosen as a light source. This allows high measurement resolution and miniaturisation of the system. A new developed driving method for the OLED display optimised for LAPS-based measurements is demonstrated. The new method enables to define modulation frequencies between 1 kHz and 16 kHz and hence, reduces the measurement time of a chemical image by a factor of 40 compared to the traditional addressing of an OLED display.