| 1. |
- Akiyama, Kazunori, et al.
(författare)
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The persistent shadow of the supermassive black hole of M 87: I. Observations, calibration, imaging, and analysis*
- 2024
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Ingår i: Astronomy and Astrophysics. - 0004-6361 .- 1432-0746. ; 681
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- In April 2019, the Event Horizon Telescope (EHT) Collaboration reported the first-ever event-horizon-scale images of a black hole, resolving the central compact radio source in the giant elliptical galaxy M 87. These images reveal a ring with a southerly brightness distribution and a diameter of ∼42 μas, consistent with the predicted size and shape of a shadow produced by the gravitationally lensed emission around a supermassive black hole. These results were obtained as part of the April 2017 EHT observation campaign, using a global very long baseline interferometric radio array operating at a wavelength of 1.3 mm. Here, we present results based on the second EHT observing campaign, taking place in April 2018 with an improved array, wider frequency coverage, and increased bandwidth. In particular, the additional baselines provided by the Greenland telescope improved the coverage of the array. Multiyear EHT observations provide independent snapshots of the horizon-scale emission, allowing us to confirm the persistence, size, and shape of the black hole shadow, and constrain the intrinsic structural variability of the accretion flow. We have confirmed the presence of an asymmetric ring structure, brighter in the southwest, with a median diameter of 43.3-3.1+1.5 μas. The diameter of the 2018 ring is remarkably consistent with the diameter obtained from the previous 2017 observations. On the other hand, the position angle of the brightness asymmetry in 2018 is shifted by about 30 relative to 2017. The perennial persistence of the ring and its diameter robustly support the interpretation that the ring is formed by lensed emission surrounding a Kerr black hole with a mass ∼6.5× 109M. The significant change in the ring brightness asymmetry implies a spin axis that is more consistent with the position angle of the large-scale jet.
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| 2. |
- Li, Gang, 1991, et al.
(författare)
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Bayesian genome scale modelling identifies thermal determinants of yeast metabolism
- 2021
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Ingår i: Nature Communications. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 2041-1723 .- 2041-1723. ; 12:1
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- The molecular basis of how temperature affects cell metabolism has been a long-standing question in biology, where the main obstacles are the lack of high-quality data and methods to associate temperature effects on the function of individual proteins as well as to combine them at a systems level. Here we develop and apply a Bayesian modeling approach to resolve the temperature effects in genome scale metabolic models (GEM). The approach minimizes uncertainties in enzymatic thermal parameters and greatly improves the predictive strength of the GEMs. The resulting temperature constrained yeast GEM uncovers enzymes that limit growth at superoptimal temperatures, and squalene epoxidase (ERG1) is predicted to be the most rate limiting. By replacing this single key enzyme with an ortholog from a thermotolerant yeast strain, we obtain a thermotolerant strain that outgrows the wild type, demonstrating the critical role of sterol metabolism in yeast thermosensitivity. Therefore, apart from identifying thermal determinants of cell metabolism and enabling the design of thermotolerant strains, our Bayesian GEM approach facilitates modelling of complex biological systems in the absence of high-quality data and therefore shows promise for becoming a standard tool for genome scale modeling.
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| 3. |
- Qin, Ning, 1990, et al.
(författare)
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Flux regulation through glycolysis and respiration is balanced by inositol pyrophosphates in yeast
- 2023
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Ingår i: Cell. - : Elsevier BV. - 0092-8674 .- 1097-4172. ; 186:4, s. 748-763.e15
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Although many prokaryotes have glycolysis alternatives, it's considered as the only energy-generating glucose catabolic pathway in eukaryotes. Here, we managed to create a hybrid-glycolysis yeast. Subsequently, we identified an inositol pyrophosphatase encoded by OCA5 that could regulate glycolysis and respiration by adjusting 5-diphosphoinositol 1,2,3,4,6-pentakisphosphate (5-InsP7) levels. 5-InsP7 levels could regulate the expression of genes involved in glycolysis and respiration, representing a global mechanism that could sense ATP levels and regulate central carbon metabolism. The hybrid-glycolysis yeast did not produce ethanol during growth under excess glucose and could produce 2.68 g/L free fatty acids, which is the highest reported production in shake flask of Saccharomyces cerevisiae. This study demonstrated the significance of hybrid-glycolysis yeast and determined Oca5 as an inositol pyrophosphatase controlling the balance between glycolysis and respiration, which may shed light on the role of inositol pyrophosphates in regulating eukaryotic metabolism.
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| 4. |
- Yang, Wenlong, et al.
(författare)
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Performance improvement and thermomechanical analysis of a novel asymmetrical annular thermoelectric generator
- 2024
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Ingår i: Applied Thermal Engineering. - 1359-4311. ; 237
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Enhancing thermoelectric performance hinges on optimizing the geometry of thermoelectric legs. In this study, we present a novel asymmetrical annular thermoelectric generator (ATEG) in which the proportions of P-type and N-type legs are meticulously balanced. We construct a one-dimensional analytical model tailored to this ATEG. Utilizing this model, we derive the relationship governing thermal-electrical impedance matching in an asymmetrical ATEG and formulate a general expression for optimizing the asymmetry coefficient. We explore the influence of various thermal boundary conditions on optimal impedance matching, ideal annular leg parameters, and the optimal asymmetry coefficient. Our findings reveal that thermal boundary conditions significantly affect the optimal load ratio. Furthermore, in comparison to traditional ATEGs, our proposed asymmetrical ATEG with the optimized structure exhibits a remarkable 16.2 % increase in output power while maintaining the same material volume. Additionally, we perform a three-dimensional numerical analysis of the asymmetrical ATEG using Comsol. Our research findings indicate that introducing the asymmetric structure leads to higher maximum thermal stress on the legs. Interestingly, the study of asymmetric thermal boundary conditions highlights that improving heat transfer between the ATEG and the cooler yields higher mechanical reliability compared to enhancing heat transfer between the ATEG and the heat source.
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| 5. |
- Cao, Zhejian, 1991, et al.
(författare)
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Synthesis of Metal-Organic Frameworks through Enzymatically Recycled Polyethylene Terephthalate
- 2023
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Ingår i: ACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering. - 2168-0485. ; 11:43, s. 15506-15512
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) as one of the most produced plastics contributes to global waste pollution. Upcycling PET into value-added products therefore is of environmental and economic interest. Terephthalic acid (TPA), the monomer of PET, is a common linker for metal-organic framework (MOF) synthesis; thus, PET-to-MOF upcycling raises much research attention. However, conventional PET-to-MOF upcycling often requires PET depolymerization with strong acids or bases and high temperatures, which can lead to environmental and energy penalties. As an alternative, PETase offers a sustainable approach to depolymerizing PET under mesophilic and mild pH conditions. Here we report UiO-66, MOF-5, and MIL-101 syntheses using enzymatically recycled TPA as linkers. The enzymatically recycled TPA demonstrated low impurity, and the obtained MOFs possessed comparable crystallinity, thermal stability, and surface area. These results reveal the feasibility of MOF synthesis by using enzymatically recycled PET.
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| 6. |
- Helpard, Luke, et al.
(författare)
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An Approach for Individualized Cochlear Frequency Mapping Determined From 3D Synchrotron Radiation Phase-Contrast Imaging
- 2021
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Ingår i: IEEE Transactions on Biomedical Engineering. - : Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE). - 0018-9294 .- 1558-2531. ; 68:12, s. 3602-3611
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Objective: Cochlear implants are traditionally programmed to stimulate according to a generalized frequency map, where individual anatomic variability is not considered when selecting the centre frequency of stimulation of each implant electrode. However, high variability in cochlear size and spatial frequency distributions exist among individuals. Generalized cochlear implant frequency maps can result in large pitch perception errors and reduced hearing outcomes for cochlear implant recipients. The objective of this work was to develop an individualized frequency mapping technique for the human cochlea to allow for patient-specific cochlear implant stimulation.Methods: Ten cadaveric human cochleae were scanned using synchrotron radiation phase-contrast imaging (SR-PCI) combined with computed tomography (CT). For each cochlea, ground truth angle-frequency measurements were obtained in three-dimensions using the SR-PCI CT data. Using an approach designed to minimize perceptual error in frequency estimation, an individualized frequency function was determined to relate angular depth to frequency within the cochlea.Results: The individualized frequency mapping function significantly reduced pitch errors in comparison to the current gold standard generalized approach.Conclusion and Significance: This paper presents for the first time a cochlear frequency map which can be individualized using only the angular length of cochleae. This approach can be applied in the clinical setting and has the potential to revolutionize cochlear implant programming for patients worldwide.
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| 7. |
- Helpard, Luke, et al.
(författare)
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Characterization of the human helicotrema : implications for cochlear duct length and frequency mapping
- 2020
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Ingår i: Journal of Otolaryngology - Head & Neck Surgery. - : BMC. - 1916-0216. ; 49
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Background: Despite significant anatomical variation amongst patients, cochlear implant frequency-mapping has traditionally followed a patient-independent approach. Basilar membrane (BM) length is required for patient-specific frequency-mapping, however cochlear duct length (CDL) measurements generally extend to the apical tip of the entire cochlea or have no clearly defined end-point. By characterizing the length between the end of the BM and the apical tip of the entire cochlea (helicotrema length), current CDL models can be corrected to obtain the appropriate BM length. Synchrotron radiation phase-contrast imaging has made this analysis possible due to the soft-tissue contrast through the entire cochlear apex.Methods: Helicotrema linear length and helicotrema angular length measurements were performed on synchrotron radiation phase-contrast imaging data of 14 cadaveric human cochleae. On a sub-set of six samples, the CDL to the apical tip of the entire cochlea (CDLTIP) and the BM length (CDLBM) were determined. Regression analysis was performed to assess the relationship between CDLTIP and CDLBM.Results: The mean helicotrema linear length and helicotrema angular length values were 1.6 +/- 0.9 mm and 67.8 +/- 37.9 degrees, respectively. Regression analysis revealed the following relationship between CDLTIP and CDLBM: CDLBM = 0.88(CDLTIP) + 3.71 (R-2 = 0.995).Conclusion: This is the first known study to characterize the length of the helicotrema in the context of CDL measurements. It was determined that the distance between the end of the BM and the tip of the entire cochlea is clinically consequential. A relationship was determined that can predict the BM length of an individual patient based on their respective CDL measured to the apical tip of the cochlea.
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| 8. |
- Helpard, Luke, et al.
(författare)
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Three-Dimensional Modeling and Measurement of the Human Cochlear Hook Region : Considerations for Tonotopic Mapping
- 2021
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Ingår i: Otology and Neurotology. - : Lippincott Williams & Wilkins. - 1531-7129 .- 1537-4505. ; 42:6, s. E658-E665
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Hypothesis: Measuring the length of the basilar membrane (BM) in the cochlear hook region will result in improved accuracy of cochlear duct length (CDL) measurements.Background: Cochlear implant pitch mapping is generally performed in a patient independent approach, which has been shown to result in place-pitch mismatches. In order to customize cochlear implant pitch maps, accurate CDL measurements must be obtained. CDL measurements generally begin at the center of the round window (RW) and ignore the basal-most portion of the BM in the hook region. Measuring the size and morphology of the BM in the hook region can improve CDL measurements and our understanding of cochlear tonotopy.Methods: Ten cadaveric human cochleae underwent synchrotron radiation phase-contrast imaging. The length of the BM through the hook region and CDL were measured. Two different CDL measurements were obtained for each sample, with starting points at the center of the RW (CDLRW) and the basal-most tip of the BM (CDLHR). Regression analysis was performed to relate CDLRW to CDLHR. A three-dimensional polynomial model was determined to describe the average BM hook region morphology.Results: The mean CDLRW value was 33.03 ± 1.62 mm, and the mean CDLHR value was 34.68 ± 1.72 mm. The following relationship was determined between CDLRW and CDLHR: CDLHR = 1.06(CDLRW)-0.26 (R2 = 0.99).Conclusion: The length and morphology of the hook region was determined. Current measurements underestimate CDL in the hook region and can be corrected using the results herein.
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| 9. |
- Kämpfe Nordström, Charlotta, et al.
(författare)
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A Micro-CT and Synchrotron Imaging Study of the Human Endolymphatic Duct with Special Reference to Endolymph Outflow and Meniere's Disease
- 2020
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Ingår i: Scientific Reports. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 2045-2322. ; 10:1
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Meniere’s disease remains enigmatic, and has no treatment with sufficient evidence. The characteristic histopathological finding is endolymphatic hydrops, suggesting either an overproduction or decreased reabsorption of endolymph in the human inner ear. This study presents the first analysis of the vascular plexus around the human endolymphatic duct using micro computed tomography and coherent synchrotron radiation with phase contrast imaging. Using a software program, data were processed by volume-rendering with scalar opacity mapping to create transparent three-dimensional reconstructions. A rich vascular plexus was discovered around the endolymphatic duct that drained into collecting channels, linked to the vestibular venous outflow system. This network is believed to make up the principal route for endolymph outflow, and its associated malfunction may result in endolymphatic hydrops and Meniere’s disease.
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| 10. |
- Li, Hao, 1984-, et al.
(författare)
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A Synchrotron and Micro-CT Study of the Human Endolymphatic Duct System : Is Meniere's Disease Caused by an Acute Endolymph Backflow?
- 2021
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Ingår i: Frontiers in Surgery. - : Frontiers Media S.A.. - 2296-875X. ; 8
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Background: The etiology of Meniere's disease (MD) and endolymphatic hydrops believed to underlie its symptoms remain unknown. One reason may be the exceptional complexity of the human inner ear, its vulnerability, and surrounding hard bone. The vestibular organ contains an endolymphatic duct system (EDS) bridging the different fluid reservoirs. It may be essential for monitoring hydraulic equilibrium, and a dysregulation may result in distension of the fluid spaces or endolymphatic hydrops. Material and Methods: We studied the EDS using high-resolution synchrotron phase contrast non-invasive imaging (SR-PCI), and micro-computed tomography (micro-CT). Ten fresh human temporal bones underwent SR-PCI. One bone underwent micro-CT after fixation and staining with Lugol's iodine solution (I2KI) to increase tissue resolution. Data were processed using volume-rendering software to create 3D reconstructions allowing orthogonal sectioning, cropping, and tissue segmentation. Results: Combined imaging techniques with segmentation and tissue modeling demonstrated the 3D anatomy of the human saccule, utricle, endolymphatic duct, and sac together with connecting pathways. The utricular duct (UD) and utriculo-endolymphatic valve (UEV or Bast's valve) were demonstrated three-dimensionally for the first time. The reunion duct was displayed with micro-CT. It may serve as a safety valve to maintain cochlear endolymph homeostasis under certain conditions. Discussion: The thin reunion duct seems to play a minor role in the exchange of endolymph between the cochlea and vestibule under normal conditions. The saccule wall appears highly flexible, which may explain occult hydrops occasionally preceding symptoms in MD on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The design of the UEV and connecting ducts suggests that there is a reciprocal exchange of fluid among the utricle, semicircular canals, and the EDS. Based on the anatomic framework and previous experimental data, we speculate that precipitous vestibular symptoms in MD arise from a sudden increase in endolymph pressure caused by an uncontrolled endolymphatic sac secretion. A rapid rise in UD pressure, mediated along the fairly wide UEV, may underlie the acute vertigo attack, refuting the rupture/K+-intoxication theory.
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| 11. |
- Li, Hao, 1984-, et al.
(författare)
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Aeration of the Human Prussak's Space : A 3D Synchrotron Imaging Study
- 2021
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Ingår i: Otology and Neurotology. - : Lippincott Williams & Wilkins. - 1531-7129 .- 1537-4505. ; 42:7, s. E894-E904
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Objectives: Prussak's space (PS) is an intricate middle ear region which may play an essential role in the development of middle ear disease. The three-dimensional (3D) anatomy of the human PS and its drainage routes remain relatively unknown. Earlier studies have histologically analyzed PS, by micro-dissection and endoscopy. Here, we used synchrotron-radiation phase-contrast imaging (SR-PCI), 3D reconstructions, and modeling to study the framework of the human PS, including aeration pathways. It may lead to increased understanding of development of middle ear pathology.Design: Nine human temporal bone specimens underwent in-line SR-PCI at the Canadian Light Source in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada. Data were processed with volume-rendering software to create 3D reconstructions using scalar opacity mapping and segmentations to visualize its walls in fixed, undecalcified human temporal bones.Results: The PS was found to be an irregular, variably shaped chamber with different aeration systems. Three different drainage pathways were found: 1) via the posterior malleolar pouch of von Troltsch in seven of nine ears; 2) directly posterior-inferior into the mesotympanum medial to the posterior malleolar pouch in one ear; and 3) anteriorly in another. The posterior-inferior communications depended on the anatomy of the posterior malleolar fold. In one bilateral case, the aeration differed between the ears. Earlier descriptions of upper ventilation routes between the PS and the epitympanic spaces could not be substantiated.Conclusions: The 3D anatomy of the membrane folds organizing the PS in humans was demonstrated for the first time using in-line SR-PCI. The PS was always aerated into the mesotympanum, suggesting its relative independence of attic ventilation. The impact of its various drainage routes on middle ear ventilation and disease were discussed.
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| 12. |
- Li, Hao, 1984-, et al.
(författare)
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Synchrotron Radiation-Based Reconstruction of the Human Spiral Ganglion : Implications for Cochlear Implantation
- 2020
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Ingår i: Ear and Hearing. - : LIPPINCOTT WILLIAMS & WILKINS. - 0196-0202 .- 1538-4667. ; 41:1, s. 173-181
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Objective: To three-dimensionally reconstruct Rosenthal's canal (RC) housing the human spiral ganglion (SG) using synchrotron radiation phase-contrast imaging (SR-PCI). Straight cochlear implant electrode arrays were inserted to better comprehend the electro-cochlear interface in cochlear implantation (CI).Design: SR-PCI was used to reconstruct the human cochlea with and without cadaveric CI. Twenty-eight cochleae were volume rendered, of which 12 underwent cadaveric CI with a straight electrode via the round window (RW). Data were input into the 3D Slicer software program and anatomical structures were modeled using a threshold paint tool.Results: The human RC and SG were reproduced three-dimensionally with artefact-free imaging of electrode arrays. The anatomy of the SG and its relationship to the sensory organ (Corti) and soft and bony structures were assessed.Conclusions: SR-PCI and computer-based three-dimensional reconstructions demonstrated the relationships among implanted electrodes, angular insertion depths, and the SG for the first time in intact, unstained, and nondecalcified specimens. This information can be used to assess stimulation strategies and future electrode designs, as well as create place-frequency maps of the SG for optimal stimulation strategies of the human auditory nerve in CI.
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| 13. |
- Li, Hao, 1984-, et al.
(författare)
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The ultrastructure of a stria vascularis in the auditory organ of the cuban crocodile (Crocodylus rhombifer)
- 2023
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Ingår i: Frontiers in Cell and Developmental Biology. - : Frontiers Media S.A.. - 2296-634X. ; 11
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Background: An endocochlear potential (EP) exists in the mammalian cochlea generated by the stria vascularis and an associated fibrocyte network. It plays an essential role for sensory cell function and hearing sensitivity. In non-mammalian ectothermic animals the endocochlear potential is low and its origin somewhat unclear. In this study, we explored the crocodilian auditory organ and describe the fine structure of a stria vascularis epithelium that has not been verified in birds.Material and Methods: Three Cuban crocodiles (Crocodylus rhombifer) were analyzed with light and transmission electron microscopy. The ears were fixed in glutaraldehyde The temporal bones were drilled out and decalcified. The ears were dehydrated, and embedded and was followed by semi-thin and thin sectioning.Results: The fine structure of the crocodile auditory organ including the papilla basilaris and endolymph system was outlined. The upper roof of the endolymph compartment was specialized into a Reissner membrane and tegmentum vasculosum. At the lateral limbus an organized, multilayered, vascularized epithelium or stria vascularis was identified.Discussion: Electron microscopy demonstrates that the auditory organ in Crocodylus rhombifer, unlike in birds, contains a stria vascularis epithelium separate from the tegmentum vasculosum. It is believed to secrete endolymph and to generate a low grade endocochlear potential. It may regulate endolymph composition and optimize hearing sensitivity alongside the tegmentum vasculosum. It could represent a parallel evolution essential for the adaptation of crocodiles to their diverse habitats.
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| 14. |
- Li, Hao, 1984-, et al.
(författare)
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Three-dimensional tonotopic mapping of the human cochlea based on synchrotron radiation phase-contrast imaging
- 2021
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Ingår i: Scientific Reports. - : Springer Nature. - 2045-2322. ; 11:1
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- The human cochlea transforms sound waves into electrical signals in the acoustic nerve fibers with high acuity. This transformation occurs via vibrating anisotropic membranes (basilar and tectorial membranes) and frequency-specific hair cell receptors. Frequency-positions can be mapped within the cochlea to create a tonotopic chart which fits an almost-exponential function with lowest frequencies positioned apically and highest frequencies positioned at the cochlear base (Bekesy 1960, Greenwood 1961). To date, models of frequency positions have been based on a two-dimensional analysis with inaccurate representations of the cochlear hook region. In the present study, the first three-dimensional frequency analysis of the cochlea using dendritic mapping to obtain accurate tonotopic maps of the human basilar membrane/organ of Corti and the spiral ganglion was performed. A novel imaging technique, synchrotron radiation phase-contrast imaging, was used and a spiral ganglion frequency function was estimated by nonlinear least squares fitting a Greenwood-like function (F=A (10(ax) - K)) to the data. The three-dimensional tonotopic data presented herein has large implications for validating electrode position and creating customized frequency maps for cochlear implant recipients.
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| 15. |
- Li, Hao, 1984-, et al.
(författare)
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Unlocking the human inner ear for therapeutic intervention
- 2022
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Ingår i: Scientific Reports. - : Springer Nature. - 2045-2322. ; 12:1
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- The human inner ear contains minute three-dimensional neurosensory structures that are deeply embedded within the skull base, rendering them relatively inaccessible to regenerative therapies for hearing loss. Here we provide a detailed characterisation of the functional architecture of the space that hosts the cell bodies of the auditory nerve to make them safely accessible for the first time for therapeutic intervention. We used synchrotron phase-contrast imaging which offers the required microscopic soft-tissue contrast definition while simultaneously displaying precise bony anatomic detail. Using volume-rendering software we constructed highly accurate 3-dimensional representations of the inner ear. The cell bodies are arranged in a bony helical canal that spirals from the base of the cochlea to its apex; the canal volume is 1.6 mu L but with a diffusion potential of 15 mu L. Modelling data from 10 temporal bones enabled definition of a safe trajectory for therapeutic access while preserving the cochlea's internal architecture. We validated the approach through surgical simulation, anatomical dissection and micro-radiographic analysis. These findings will facilitate future clinical trials of novel therapeutic interventions to restore hearing.
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| 16. |
- Li, Hao, 1984-, et al.
(författare)
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Vestibular Organ and Cochlear Implantation-A Synchrotron and Micro-CT Study
- 2021
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Ingår i: Frontiers in Neurology. - : Frontiers Media S.A.. - 1664-2295. ; 12
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Background: Reports vary on the incidence of vestibular dysfunction and dizziness in patients following cochlear implantation (CI). Disequilibrium may be caused by surgery at the cochlear base, leading to functional disturbances of the vestibular receptors and endolymphatic duct system (EDS) which are located nearby. Here, we analyzed the three-dimensional (3D) anatomy of this region, aiming to optimize surgical approaches to limit damage to the vestibular organ.Material and Methods: A total of 22 fresh-frozen human temporal bones underwent synchrotron radiation phase-contrast imaging (SR-PCI). One temporal bone underwent micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) after fixation and staining with Lugol's iodine solution (I2KI) to increase tissue contrast. We used volume-rendering software to create 3D reconstructions and tissue segmentation that allowed precise assessment of anatomical relationships and topography. Macerated human ears belonging to the Uppsala collection were also used. Drilling and insertion of CI electrodes was performed with metric analyses of different trajectories.Results and Conclusions: SR-PCI and micro-CT imaging demonstrated the complex 3D anatomy of the basal region of the human cochlea, vestibular apparatus, and EDS. Drilling of a cochleostomy may disturb vestibular organ function by injuring the endolymphatic space and disrupting fluid barriers. The saccule is at particular risk due to its proximity to the surgical area and may explain immediate and long-term post-operative vertigo. Round window insertion may be less traumatic to the inner ear, however it may affect the vestibular receptors.
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| 17. |
- Li, Xiaoming, et al.
(författare)
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Big data analysis of the Internet of Things in the digital twins of smart city based on deep learning
- 2022
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Ingår i: Future generations computer systems. - : Elsevier. - 0167-739X .- 1872-7115. ; 128, s. 167-177
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- The study aims to conduct big data analysis (BDA) on the massive data generated in the smart city Internet of things (IoT), make the smart city change to the direction of fine governance and efficient and safe data processing. Aiming at the multi-source data collected in the smart city, the study introduces the deep learning (DL) algorithm while using BDA, and puts forward the distributed parallelism strategy of convolutional neural network (CNN). Meantime, the digital twins (DTs) and multi-hop transmission technology are introduced to construct the smart city DTs multi-hop transmission IoT-BDA system based on DL, and further simulate and analyze the performance of the system. The results reveal that in the energy efficiency analysis of model data transmission, the energy efficiency first increases and then decrease as the minimum energy collected α0 increases. But a more suitable power diversion factor ρ is crucial to the signal transmission energy efficiency of the IoT-BDA system. The prediction accuracy of the model is analyzed and it suggests that the accuracy of the constructed system reaches 97.80%, which is at least 2.24% higher than the DL algorithm adopted by other scholars. Regarding the data transmission performance of the constructed system, it is found that when the successful transmission probability is 100% and the exponential distribution parameters λ is valued 0.01∼0.05, it is the closest to the actual result, and the data delay is the smallest, which is maintained at the ms level. To sum up, improving the smart city’s IoT-BDA system using the DL approach can reduce data transmission delay, improve data forecasting accuracy, and offer actual efficacy, providing experimental references for the digital development of smart cities in the future.
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| 18. |
- Liu, Wei, et al.
(författare)
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Immuno-surveillance and protection of the human cochlea
- 2024
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Ingår i: Frontiers in Neurology. - : Frontiers Media S.A.. - 1664-2295. ; 15
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Background: Despite its location near infection-prone areas, the human inner ear demonstrates remarkable resilience. This suggests that there are inherent instruments deterring the invasion and spread of pathogens into the inner ear. Here, we combined high-resolution light microscopy, super-resolution immunohistochemistry (SR-SIM) and synchrotron phase contrast imaging (SR-PCI) to identify the protection and barrier systems in the various parts of the human inner ear, focusing on the lateral wall, spiral ganglion, and endolymphatic sac.Materials and methods: Light microscopy was conducted on mid-modiolar, semi-thin sections, after direct glutaraldehyde/osmium tetroxide fixation. The tonotopic locations were estimated using SR-PCI and 3D reconstruction in cadaveric specimens. The sections were analyzed for leucocyte and macrophage activity, and the results were correlated with immunohistochemistry using confocal microscopy and SR-SIM.Results: Light microscopy revealed unprecedented preservation of cell anatomy and several macrophage-like cells that were localized in the cochlea. Immunohistochemistry demonstrated IBA1 cells frequently co-expressing MHC II in the spiral ganglion, nerve fibers, lateral wall, spiral limbus, and tympanic covering layer at all cochlear turns as well as in the endolymphatic sac. RNAscope assays revealed extensive expression of fractalkine gene transcripts in type I spiral ganglion cells. CD4 and CD8 cells occasionally surrounded blood vessels in the modiolus and lateral wall. TMEM119 and P2Y12 were not expressed, indicating that the cells labeled with IBA1 were not microglia. The round window niche, compact basilar membrane, and secondary spiral lamina may form protective shields in the cochlear base.Discussion: The results suggest that the human cochlea is surveilled by dwelling and circulating immune cells. Resident and blood-borne macrophages may initiate protective immune responses via chemokine signaling in the lateral wall, spiral lamina, and spiral ganglion at different frequency locations. Synchrotron imaging revealed intriguing protective barriers in the base of the cochlea. The role of the endolymphatic sac in human inner ear innate and adaptive immunity is discussed.
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| 19. |
- Liu, Wei, et al.
(författare)
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Spike Generators and Cell Signaling in the Human Auditory Nerve : An Ultrastructural, Super-Resolution, and Gene Hybridization Study
- 2021
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Ingår i: Frontiers in Cellular Neuroscience. - : Frontiers Media S.A.. - 1662-5102. ; 15
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Background: The human auditory nerve contains 30,000 nerve fibers (NFs) that relay complex speech information to the brain with spectacular acuity. How speech is coded and influenced by various conditions is not known. It is also uncertain whether human nerve signaling involves exclusive proteins and gene manifestations compared with that of other species. Such information is difficult to determine due to the vulnerable, "esoteric," and encapsulated human ear surrounded by the hardest bone in the body. We collected human inner ear material for nanoscale visualization combining transmission electron microscopy (TEM), super-resolution structured illumination microscopy (SR-SIM), and RNA-scope analysis for the first time. Our aim was to gain information about the molecular instruments in human auditory nerve processing and deviations, and ways to perform electric modeling of prosthetic devices.Material and Methods: Human tissue was collected during trans-cochlear procedures to remove petro-clival meningioma after ethical permission. Cochlear neurons were processed for electron microscopy, confocal microscopy (CM), SR-SIM, and high-sensitive in situ hybridization for labeling single mRNA transcripts to detect ion channel and transporter proteins associated with nerve signal initiation and conductance.Results: Transport proteins and RNA transcripts were localized at the subcellular level. Hemi-nodal proteins were identified beneath the inner hair cells (IHCs). Voltage-gated ion channels (VGICs) were expressed in the spiral ganglion (SG) and axonal initial segments (AISs). Nodes of Ranvier (NR) expressed Nav1.6 proteins, and encoding genes critical for inter-cellular coupling were disclosed.Discussion: Our results suggest that initial spike generators are located beneath the IHCs in humans. The first NRs appear at different places. Additional spike generators and transcellular communication may boost, sharpen, and synchronize afferent signals by cell clusters at different frequency bands. These instruments may be essential for the filtering of complex sounds and may be challenged by various pathological conditions.
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| 20. |
- Mei, Xueshuang, et al.
(författare)
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Vascular Supply of the Human Spiral Ganglion : Novel Three-Dimensional Analysis Using Synchrotron Phase-Contrast Imaging and Histology
- 2020
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Ingår i: Scientific Reports. - : Springer Nature. - 2045-2322. ; 10:1
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Human spiral ganglion (HSG) cell bodies located in the bony cochlea depend on a rich vascular supply to maintain excitability. These neurons are targeted by cochlear implantation (CI) to treat deafness, and their viability is critical to ensure successful clinical outcomes. The blood supply of the HSG is difficult to study due to its helical structure and encasement in hard bone. The objective of this study was to present the first three-dimensional (3D) reconstruction and analysis of the HSG blood supply using synchrotron radiation phase-contrast imaging (SR-PCI) in combination with histological analyses of archival human cochlear sections. Twenty-six human temporal bones underwent SR-PCI. Data were processed using volume-rendering software, and a representative three-dimensional (3D) model was created to allow visualization of the vascular anatomy. Histologic analysis was used to verify the segmentations. Results revealed that the HSG is supplied by radial vascular twigs which are separate from the rest of the inner ear and encased in bone. Unlike with most organs, the arteries and veins in the human cochlea do not follow the same conduits. There is a dual venous outflow and a modiolar arterial supply. This organization may explain why the HSG may endure even in cases of advanced cochlear pathology.
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| 21. |
- Schart-Moren, Nadine, et al.
(författare)
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Cochlear implantation and residual hearing preservation long-term follow-up of the first consecutively operated patients using the round window approach in Uppsala, Sweden
- 2020
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Ingår i: Cochlear Implants International. - : Taylor & Francis Group. - 1467-0100 .- 1754-7628. ; 21:5, s. 246-259
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Objective: We conducted a long-term follow-up study to investigate the time course of residual hearing in our first 21 consecutively operated cochlear implant (CI) patients using the round window (RW) approach . The study may provide additional information about the influence of a flexible lateral wall electrode array on cochlear function.Methods: Data were available for long-term follow-up (>5 years) in 15 patients. Pure tone audiometry (PTA) was assessed at 0.125–8 kHz preoperatively, and at one, three and >5 years postoperatively. Insertion angle, number of electrodes inside the cochlea, user-time of the processor and stimulation strategy were documented.Results: Twelve out of 15 patients had residual hearing after a follow-up period of five years (mean 86 months, range: 61–103 months). Four out of 15 patients had >75% complete hearing preservation (HP), 8 out of 15 had 25–75% partial HP and 3 out of 15 patients had complete loss of hearing. There was a high correlation between insertion angle and HP.Conclusion: Long-term HP was possible in 12 out of 15 cases. Even patients with complete hearing loss at long-term follow-up showed high performance in speech understanding and were full-time users.
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| 22. |
- Shao, Xue-Feng, et al.
(författare)
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Hydroxyl group functionalized graphene oxide nanosheets as additive for improved erythritol latent heat storage performance : A comprehensive evaluation on the benefits and challenges
- 2020
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Ingår i: Solar Energy Materials and Solar Cells. - : Elsevier BV. - 0927-0248 .- 1879-3398. ; 215
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Graphene oxide (GO) nanosheets were employed as the additive to make composites of erythritol, a promising medium-temperature PCM candidate. GO nanosheets modified with hydroxyl groups were applied to improve the dispersion stability of the composites. A systematic characterization on the latent heat storage performance was performed for both pure and composite erythritol, in order to identify the benefits and challenges of the composites. It was found that the thermal conductivity is increased by nearly twice and the degree of supercooling was lowered from ~64 °C to ~48 °C at the loading of 1.0 wt% GO nanosheets (the maximum loading tested). The addition of GO nanosheets also leads to an increase of the retrievable latent heat during crystallization, from ~187 kJ/kg to ~225 kJ/kg at the same loading, by increasing the crystallinity. However, the introduction of GO nanosheets can also lead to a rise in the dynamic viscosity of erythritol. As a result, the crystallization rate is slowed down and accordingly, the duration of crystallization becomes 62% longer when the loading reaches 1.0 wt%. In addition, favorable dispersion stability of the erythritol composites is observed, and their melting point (~117 °C) remains almost unchanged during 50 melting-crystallization cycles. Functionalized GO nanosheets have been shown to be an efficient additive for improving the performance of erythritol, but a trade-off analysis on the loading would be required to achieve the best overall performance.
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| 23. |
- Wang, Bei, et al.
(författare)
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Softer, thinner and more complaint cochlear implants with liquid metal
- 2022
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Konferensbidrag (refereegranskat)abstract
- A cochlear implant (CI) can restore sound perception for people with congenital or sensorineural hearing loss. Liquid metal (LM) based CI is more soft and complaint, enhancing its compliance and reducing intra-cochlear trauma, but the LM pattern demands high resolution. This work introduces a PCB manufacturing technique for high-resolution LM-based cochlear implant fabrication. It consists of laser cutting and ablation, masked LM microscale spray deposition, lift-off, and encapsulation. The microscale deposition is capable of patterning uniform LM at high resolution by fine spraying a sonication-produced LM particle based ink. A novel feature is that the laser-processable substrate is engraved when cutting the protective lift-off mask, avoiding mask transfer by lamination and allowing for alignment, vias, and higher aspect ratio structures, at high resolution. This feature simplifies the whole process and improves the precision and yield, allowing for more complex circuits. The fabricated CI shows good performance both in the inserting process and electrical signal.
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| 24. |
- Wei, Zhongbao, et al.
(författare)
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Deep Deterministic Policy Gradient-DRL Enabled Multiphysics-Constrained Fast Charging of Lithium-Ion Battery
- 2022
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Ingår i: IEEE Transactions on Industrial Electronics. - 0278-0046 .- 1557-9948. ; 69:3, s. 2588 -2598
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Fast charging is an enabling technique for the large-scale penetration of electric vehicles. This paper proposes a knowledge-based, multi-physics-constrained fast charging strategy for lithium-ion battery (LIB), with a consciousness of the thermal safety and degradation. A universal algorithmic framework combining model-based state observer and a deep reinforcement learning (DRL)-based optimizer is proposed, for the first time, to provide a LIB fast charging solution. Within the DRL framework, a multi-objective optimization problem is formulated by penalizing the over-temperature and degradation. An improved environmental perceptive deep deterministic policy gradient (DDPG) algorithm with priority experience replay is exploited to trade-off smartly the charging rapidity and the compliance of physical constraints. The proposed DDPG-DRL strategy is compared experimentally with the rule-based strategies and the state-of-the-art model predictive controller to validate its superiority in terms of charging rapidity, enforcement of LIB thermal safety and life extension, as well as the computational tractability.
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