Improved infrared-sensing running wheel systems with an effective exercise activity indicator.

This paper describes an infrared-sensing running wheel (ISRW) system for the quantitative measurement of effective exercise activity in rats. The ISRW system provides superior exercise training compared with commercially available traditional animal running platforms. Four infrared (IR) light-emitting diode/detector pairs embedded around the rim of the wheel detect the rat's real-time position; the acrylic wheel has a diameter of 55 cm and a thickness of 15 cm, that is, it is larger and thicker than traditional exercise wheels, and it is equipped with a rubber track.

Prevalence of hyperuricemia and its association with antihypertensive treatment in hypertensive patients in Taiwan.

Background: Hyperuricemia is thought to be associated with an increased risk of hypertension, impaired renal function and cardiovascular disease. Our aim is to study the prevalence of hyperuricemia and its association with antihypertensive treatment in Taiwanese hypertensive subjects.

Methods: We recruited 2145 hypertensive subjects from 19 hospitals in four areas of Taiwan.