Hybrid M-FSK/DQPSK Modulations for CubeSat Picosatellites

Conventional CubeSat radio systems typically use one of several basic modulations, such as AFSK, GMSK, BPSK, QPSK and OOK or switch between them on demand if possible. These modulations represent a bal¬anced trade-off between good energy efficiency of high order M-FSK modulation and good spectral efficiency of high order M-QAM modulation. Utilization of modulations with the best energy efficiency is not possible due to strict limits on occupied frequency bandwidth. In this paper the proposed group of hybrid modulations and proposed hybrid modulator and demodulator are presented. Novel solution offer interesting possibilities of increasing spectral efficiency as well as energy efficiency of basic M-FSK modulation by embedding DQPSK symbols between two M-FSK symbols. Such group of hybrid modulations offers suitable properties for picosatellite, e.g. simple realization onboard the picosatellite, better energy and spectral efficiency, low PAPR, wide range of adaptation by changing the order of M-FSK, suitable for easy non-coherent demodulation, good immunity to Doppler effect with DM-FSK coding

Shape optimization of tibial prosthesis components

NASA technology and optimal design methodologies originally developed for the optimization of composite structures (engine blades) are adapted and applied to the optimization of orthopaedic knee implants. A method is developed enabling the shape tailoring of the tibial components of a total knee replacement implant for optimal interaction within the environment of the tibia. The shape of the implant components are optimized such that the stresses in the bone are favorably controlled to minimize bone degradation, to improve the mechanical integrity of the implant/interface/bone system, and to prevent failures of the implant components. A pilot tailoring system is developed and the feasibility of the concept is demonstrated and evaluated. The methodology and evolution of the existing aerospace technology from which this pilot optimization code was developed is also presented and discussed. Both symmetric and unsymmetric in-plane loading conditions are investigated. The results of the optimization process indicate a trend toward wider and tapered posts as well as thicker backing trays. Unique component geometries were obtained for the different load cases

Adaptation of NASA technology for the optimization of orthopedic knee implants

The NASA technology originally developed for the optimization of composite structures (engine blades) is adapted and applied to the optimization of orthopedic knee implants. A method is developed enabling the tailoring of the implant for optimal interaction with the environment of the tibia. The shape of the implant components are optimized, such that the stresses in the bone are favorably controlled to minimize bone degradation and prevent failures. A pilot tailoring system is developed and the feasibility of the concept is elevated. The optimization system is expected to provide the means for improving knee prosthesis and individual implant tailoring for each patient

Essential fatty acids composition and oxidative stability of frozen minced carp meat

This study aimed to introduce minced common carp (Cyprinus caprio L.) meat as a nutritional valuable by-product from carp filleting. This research was focused on fatty acid composition and considered its sensitivity to oxidation during frozen storage (-20 degrees C). Additionally, copper chloride was used to magnify possible oxidation reactions. A better understanding of minced carp meat quality and deterioration during frozen storage could help to promote the usage of this underestimated by-product. The utilization of this by-product for human consumption could be a useful way to increase the carp aquaculture economy and sustainability. The fatty acid profile showed a favorable content of essential fatty acids, as well as a beneficial ratio of omega-3/omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids. Furthermore, during 4 months of frozen storage (-20 degrees C), no significant changes were detected in fatty acid composition. Negligible changes were observed in the oxidation of lipids and proteins. The nutritional value and storage stability of minced carp meat was shown

Novel insights into the cardio-protective effects of FGF21 in lean and obese rat hearts

Aims: Fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) is a hepatic metabolic regulator with pleotropic actions. Its plasma concentrations are increased in obesity and diabetes; states associated with an increased incidence of cardiovascular disease. We therefore investigated the direct effect of FGF21 on cardio-protection in obese and lean hearts in response to ischemia. Methods and Results: FGF21, FGF21-receptor 1 (FGFR1) and beta-Klotho (βKlotho) were expressed in rodent, human hearts and primary rat cardiomyocytes. Cardiac FGF21 was expressed and secreted (real time RT-PCR/western blot and ELISA) in an autocrine-paracrine manner, in response to obesity and hypoxia, involving FGFR1-βKlotho components. Cardiac-FGF21 expression and secretion were increased in response to global ischemia. In contrast βKlotho was reduced in obese hearts. In isolated adult rat cardiomyocytes, FGF21 activated PI3K/Akt (phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/Akt), ERK1/2(extracellular signal-regulated kinase) and AMPK (AMP-activated protein kinase) pathways. In Langendorff perfused rat [adult male wild-type wistar] hearts, FGF21 administration induced significant cardio-protection and restoration of function following global ischemia. Inhibition of PI3K/Akt, AMPK, ERK1/2 and ROR-α (retinoic-acid receptor alpha) pathway led to significant decrease of FGF21 induced cardio-protection and restoration of cardiac function in response to global ischemia. More importantly, this cardio-protective response induced by FGF21 was reduced in obesity, although the cardiac expression profiles and circulating FGF21 levels were increased. Conclusion: In an ex vivo Langendorff system, we show that FGF21 induced cardiac protection and restoration of cardiac function involving autocrine-paracrine pathways, with reduced effect in obesity. Collectively, our findings provide novel insights into FGF21-induced cardiac effects in obesity and ischemia