Wild-type MIC distributions of four fluoroquinolones active against Mycobacterium tuberculosis in relation to current critical concentrations and available pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic data.

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Angeby, K A; Jureen, P; Giske, C G; Chryssanthou, E; Sturegård, E; Nordvall, M; Johansson, A G; Werngren, J; Kahlmeter, G; Hoffner, S E; Schön, T

2010-05-01

To describe wild-type distributions of the MIC of fluoroquinolones for Mycobacterium tuberculosis in relation to current critical concentrations used for drug susceptibility testing and pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) data. A 96-stick replicator on Middlebrook 7H10 medium was used to define the MICs of ciprofloxacin, ofloxacin, moxifloxacin and levofloxacin for 90 consecutive clinical strains and 24 drug-resistant strains. The MICs were compared with routine BACTEC 460 susceptibility results and with MIC determinations in the BACTEC MGIT 960 system in a subset of strains using ofloxacin as a class representative. PK/PD data for each drug were reviewed in relation to the wild-type MIC distribution. The wild-type MICs of ciprofloxacin, ofloxacin, moxifloxacin and levofloxacin were distributed from 0.125 to 1, 0.25 to 1, 0.032 to 0.5 and 0.125 to 0.5 mg/L, respectively. The MIC data correlated well with the BACTEC 960 MGIT and BACTEC 460 results. PD indices were the most favourable for levofloxacin, followed by moxifloxacin, ofloxacin and ciprofloxacin. We propose S (susceptible)

Comparison of the conventional diagnostic modalities, bactec culture and polymerase chain reaction test for diagnosis of tuberculosis

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Negi S

2005-01-01

Full Text Available PURPOSE: To evaluate the performance of 65 kDa antigen based PCR assay in clinical samples obtained from pulmonary and extrapulmonary cases of tuberculosis. METHODS: One hundred and fifty six samples were processed for detection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis by ZN smear examination, LJ medium culture, BACTEC radiometric culture and PCR tests. RESULTS: A significant difference was seen in the sensitivities of different tests, the figures being 74.4% for PCR test, 33.79% for ZN smear examination, 48.9% for LJ culture and 55.8% for BACTEC culture (P0.05 as far as specificity of different tests was concerned. PCR test sensitivity in pulmonary and extrapulmonary clinical samples were 72.7% and 75.9% respectively and found to be significantly higher (PM.tuberculosis was 24.03 days by LJ medium culture, 12.89 days by BACTEC culture and less than one day by PCR test. CONCLUSIONS: PCR is a rapid and sensitive method for the early diagnosis of pulmonary and extrapulmonary tuberculosis.

The value of microscopic-observation drug susceptibility assay in the diagnosis of tuberculosis and detection of multidrug resistance.

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Sertel Şelale, Denİz; Uzun, Meltem

2018-01-01

Inexpensive, rapid, and reliable tests for detecting the presence and drug susceptibility of Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC) are urgently needed to control the transmission of tuberculosis. In this study, we aimed to assess the accuracy and speed of the microscopic-observation drug susceptibility (MODS) assay in the identification of MTBC and detection of multidrug resistance. Sputum samples from patients suspected to have tuberculosis were simultaneously tested with MODS and conventional culture [Löwenstein-Jensen (LJ) culture, BACTEC MGIT™ 960 (MGIT) system], and drug susceptibility testing (MGIT system) methods. A total of 331 sputum samples were analyzed. Sensitivity and specificity of MODS assay for detection of MTBC strains were 96% and 98.8%, respectively. MODS assay detected multidrug resistant MTBC isolates with 92.3% sensitivity and 96.6% specificity. Median time to culture positivity was similar for MGIT (8 days) and MODS culture (8 days), but was significantly longer with LJ culture (20 days) (p tuberculosis and detection of multidrug resistance. © 2017 APMIS. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Mechanisms of antibiotic resistance in Mycobacterium tuberculosis, validation of methods BACTECTM MGIT 960 and AnyplexM TII MTB / MDR / XDR Detection for detection of antibiotic resistance to first and second line in Mycobacterium tuberculosis strains

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Centeno Urena, Yadel

2014-01-01

A literature review is developed of drug-resistant TB in the world and in Costa Rica. The mechanisms of resistance to antibiotics are studied of the bacterium that causes tuberculosis; drug resistance to first-line and second-line, treatment regimen according to the World Health Organization and edge detection methods available in the market. The agreement between the results is studied by the phenotypic detection system of resistance of M. tuberculosis BACTEC MGIT960 and PCR, in real-time of commercial kit Anyplex II MTB/MDR/XDR, for genotypic identification of M. tuberculosis and related mutations to resistance with the referring results to thirty strains provided by the Pan American Health Organization, allowing a significant shortening in the time of obtaining reliable results. The results obtained have allowed to suggest a possible implementation at the Centro Nacional de Referencia en Micobacteriologia (CNRM), to perform antibiotic susceptibility testing and genotypic testing of multidrug cases respectively. The study results have allowed the implementation of the technology of genotypic detection of M. tuberculosis in the CNRM, obtaining for the first time in Costa Rica, information about genes of M. tuberculosis related to the generation of resistance to the major drugs of Primary treatment scheme as well as testing of resistance to second-line drug for resistant strains referred to the Centro Nacional de Referencia en Micobacteriologia in 2013. (author) [es

Molecular detection of multi drug resistant tuberculosis (mdr-tb) in mdr-tb patients' attendant in north western pakistan

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Shah, T.; Hayat, A.; Shah, Z.; Hayat, A.; Khan, S.B.

2017-01-01

Objective: To determine the drugs susceptibility pattern of mycobacterium tuberculosis (M.TB) in multi-drug resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) patients' attendants in North Western, Pakistan. Study Design: Cross sectional study. Place and Duration of Study: This study was conducted at Peshawar Tuberculosis Research Laboratory (PTRL), Provincial TB Control Program Hayatabad Medical Complex Peshawar, (KP) from August 2013 to March 2014. Material and Methods: A cross sectional study in which four hundred and eighty sputum samples from MDR-TB patients' attendants were processed for the detection of M.TB through Ziehl-Neelsen staining, Lowenstein-Jensen, BACTEC MGIT-960 culture and line probe assay. Results: Out of 480 samples, 06 (2.1%) were found positive for M.TB through Ziehl-Neelsen staining while 10 (2.8%) were positive through LJ and BACTEC MGIT-960 culture. The 10 positive samples were further subjected to drugs susceptibility testing and line probes assay test to find out rifampicin, isoniazid, streptomycin and ethambutol resistant and it was found that 6 M.TB isolates were resistant while 4 were sensitive to rifampicin and isoniazid. Among the 6 resistant M.TB strains, 4 showed mutation in rpoB gene at 531, 516 and 526 codons. Conclusion: Majority of MDR-TB patients' attendants had drug-resistant tuberculosis and the rate of drug susceptible TB was low. (author)

Production of 14C-labeled gas in BACTEC Neisseria Differentiation kits by Neisseria cinerea

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Boyce, J.M.; Mitchell, E.B. Jr.; Knapp, J.S.; Buttke, T.M.

1985-01-01

Six strains of Neisseria cinerea were tested in BACTEC Neisseria Differentiation kits (Johnston Laboratories, Inc., Towson, Md.), and all yielded positive glucose growth indices and negative maltose and fructose growth indices. These results were similar to those achieved with Neisseria gonorrhoeae. However, most of the N. cinerea isolates tested yielded 3-h glucose growth indices that were lower than those obtained with gonococci. 14 C-labeled gas was produced significantly faster by N. gonorrhoeae than by N. cinerea. Additional studies suggested that the 14 C-labeled gas produced by N. cinerea was carbon dioxide. N. cinerea strains were similar to Branhamella catarrhalis strains because both species failed to produce detectable acid from glucose, maltose, sucrose, fructose, and lactose in cysteine-tryptic agar media. However, in contrast to N. cinerea strains, B. catarrhalis strains did not metabolize glucose in BACTEC Neisseria Differentiation kits

Syndrome Evaluation System (SES) versus Blood Culture (BACTEC) in the Diagnosis and Management of Neonatal Sepsis--A Randomized Controlled Trial.

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Bhat, B Vishnu; Prasad, P; Ravi Kumar, Venkata Banda; Harish, B N; Krishnakumari, K; Rekha, Anand; Manjunath, G; Adhisivam, B; Shruthi, B

2016-05-01

To compare the clinical outcome of a multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) based molecular diagnostic method -- Syndrome Evaluation System (SES) directed treatment strategy vs. standard of care (blood culture) directed treatment strategy for neonatal sepsis. This randomized controlled trial (RCT) included 385 neonates with sepsis who were randomized into two groups -- SES and control (BACTEC). Both tests were performed for all the neonates. However, in the SES group, the results of SES test were revealed to the treating clinicians, while in the control group, SES results were withheld. Two ml of blood was drawn from each baby. One aliquot was sent for blood culture, whereas the remaining aliquot was sent for SES. Babies were then administered empirical IV antibiotics and given supportive care. Further antibiotic changes, if required were done in SES and control groups based on their respective reports. The microbiological profile, immediate outcome, duration of hospital stay, number of antibiotics used and readmission within a month in both groups were compared. SES was better than BACTEC in identifying the causative organism in both the groups (68 % vs. 18 % in SES group and 72 % vs. 18 % in control group). SES had 100 % concordance with blood culture by BACTEC. Detection of bacteria and fungi were four and ten-fold higher respectively with SES when compared to BACTEC culture. Microbiological diagnosis was rapid with SES compared to BACTEC (7 h vs. 72 h). Treatment based on SES resulted in significantly less mortality (3 % vs. 18 %). Readmission rate, duration of hospital stay and change in antibiotics were also significantly less in SES group. This new molecular based diagnostic system (SES) helps in rapid and accurate diagnosis of neonatal sepsis and reduces mortality and morbidity in affected neonates.

Time-to-detection of bacteria and yeast with the BACTEC FX versus BacT/Alert Virtuo blood culture systems.

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Somily, Ali Mohammed; Habib, Hanan Ahmed; Torchyan, Armen Albert; Sayyed, Samina B; Absar, Muhammed; Al-Aqeel, Rima; Binkhamis, A Khalifa

2018-01-01

Bloodstream infections are associated with high rates of morbidity and mortality. Rapid detection of bloodstream infections is important in achieving better patient outcomes. Compare the time-to-detection (TTD) of the new BacT/Alert Virtuo and the BACTEC FX automated blood culture systems. Prospective simulated comparison of two instruments using seeded samples. Medical microbiology laboratory. Blood culture bottles were seeded in triplicate with each of the standard ATCC strains of aerobes, anaerobes and yeast. TTD was calculated as the length of time from the beginning of culture incubation to the detection of bacterial growth. TTD for the various tested organisms on the two microbial detection systems. The 99 bottles of seeded blood cultures incubated in each of the blood culture systems included 21 anaerobic, 39 aerobic and 39 pediatric bottles. The BacT/Alert Virtuo system exhibited significantly shorter TTD for 72.7 % of the tested organisms compared to BACTEC FX system with a median difference in mean TTD of 2.1 hours (interquartile range: 1.5-3.5 hours). The BACTEC FX system was faster in 15.2% (5/33) of microorganisms, with a median difference in mean TTD of 25.9 hours (IQR: 9.1-29.2 hours). TTD was significantly shorter for most of the microorganisms tested on the new BacT/Alert Virtuo system compared to the BACTEC FX system. Use of simulated cultures to assess TTD may not precisely represent clinical blood cultures. None.

Comparison of the cystine-tryptic digest agar-carbohydrate co-agglutination and BACTEC Neisseria differentiation methods for identification of Neisseria gonorrhoeae in the clinical laboratory

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Morello, J.A.; Beheshti, S.; Bohnhoff, M.

1980-01-01

The author evaluated CTA-carbohydrate, BACTEC and co-agglutination systems to determine their accuracy for identifying N. gonorrhoeae strains and for distinguishing them from other Neisseria species. BACTEC is a radiometric assay based on the measurement of liberated radiolabelled CO 2 from metabolised carbohydrates which have been tagged with 14 C. (Auth.)

Effect of agitation and terminal subcultures on yield and speed of detection of the Oxoid Signal blood culture system versus the BACTEC radiometric system

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Weinstein, M.P.; Mirrett, S.; Reimer, L.G.; Reller, L.B.

1989-01-01

In an initial evaluation, we found the Oxoid Signal blood culture system inferior to the BACTEC radiometric system for detection of some microorganisms causing septicemia. To determine whether modified processing of the Oxoid Signal blood culture system could improve its yield and speed of detecting positive cultures relative to the BACTEC radiometric system, we agitated all Oxoid bottles during the first 24 to 48 h of incubation and performed aerobic and anaerobic subcultures of all Oxoid bottles negative after 7 days of incubation. These modifications improved the overall performance of the Oxoid system, particularly with regard to the yield of streptococci, members of the family Enterobacteriaceae, and Haemophilus, Neisseria, and Acinetobacter spp. The speed of detecting positive cultures also was improved, especially within the first 24 h of incubation. However, the BACTEC system still detected more positive cultures (P less than 0.005), especially of obligate aerobes such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P less than 0.05) and yeasts (P less than 0.005). The BACTEC system also detected positive cultures earlier than the Oxoid system (e.g., at 24 h of incubation, 70.5% of BACTEC positive cultures detected versus 62.1% of Oxoid positive cultures detected). Further modifications of the Oxoid system which might include a revised medium, additional processing modifications, altered headspace atmosphere, or a complementary second broth medium should be considered, since the system is attractive in concept and is easy to use in the clinical laboratory

The Performance of the Four Anaerobic Blood Culture Bottles BacT/ALERT-FN, -FN Plus, BACTEC-Plus and -Lytic in Detection of Anaerobic Bacteria and Identification by Direct MALDI-TOF MS.

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Mohammed Almuhayawi

Full Text Available Detection and identification of anaerobic bacteria in blood cultures (BC is a well-recognized challenge in clinical microbiology. We studied 100 clinical anaerobic BC isolates to evaluate the performance of BacT/ALERT-FN, -FN Plus (BioMérieux, BACTEC-Plus and -Lytic (Becton Dickinson BioSciences BC bottles in detection and time to detection (TTD of anaerobic bacteria. BACTEC Lytic had higher detection rate (94/100, 94% than BacT/ALERT FN Plus (80/100, 80% (p<0.01 in the studied material. There was no significant difference in detection of anaerobic bacteria among the remaining bottle types. The 67 anaerobic bacteria that signalled positive in all four bottle types were analyzed to compare the time to detection (TTD and isolates were directly identified by MALDI-TOF MS. There was a significant difference in TTD among the four bottle types (p<0.0001. The shortest median TTD was 18 h in BACTEC Lytic followed by BacT/ALERT FN (23.5 h, BACTEC Plus (27 h and finally BacT/ALERT FN Plus (38 h bottles. In contrast, MALDI-TOF MS performed similarly in all bottle types with accurate identification in 51/67 (76% BacT/ALERT FN, 51/67 (76% BacT/ALERT FN Plus, 53/67 (79% BACTEC Plus and 50/67 (75% BACTEC Lytic bottles. In conclusion, BACTEC Lytic bottles have significantly better detection rates and shorter TTD compared to the three other bottle types. The anaerobic BC bottles are equally suitable for direct MALDI-TOF MS for rapid and reliable identification of common anaerobic bacteria. Further clinical studies are warranted to investigate the performance of anaerobic BC bottles in detection of anaerobic bacteria and identification by direct MALDI-TOF MS.

Lack of requirement for blind subcultures of BACTEC blood culture media

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

McLaughlin, J.C.; Evers, J.L.; Officer, J.L.

1981-01-01

To determine the need for blind subculturing of BACTEC (Johnston Laboratories, Cockeysville, Md.) blood culture media, we compared results of radiometric readings, visual inspection, and blind subculturing for nearly 7,500 blood specimens. Visual inspection and radiometric testing were performed on day 1 through 7, and blind subcultures were made on day 3. In the first phase of the study, 402 of 3,896 aerobic bottles were positive by radiometric testing (growth index, greater than 25), visual inspection, or subculturing. Only six bottles were radiometrically negative but subculture positive on day 3. The second phase of the study was designed to determine if aerobic bottles eventually became radiometrically positive in those cases in which they were radiometrically negative but subculture positive on day 3. Two bottles were subculture positive but never gave a growth index of greater than or equal to 25 by day 7. One yielded Staphylococcus epidermidis, and one yielded viridans, Streptococcus sp. A total of 35 anaerobic organisms were isolated from 3,896 blood specimens. All of these anaerobes were detected by both radiometric testing and subculturing. We examined a total of 14,972 blood culture bottles. Twenty-nine bottles considered negative by visual inspection or radiometric readings were found to be positive by subculturing. Fifteen of these were shown, by chart review, to contain contaminants. Organisms in the other negative bottles would not have gone undetected because companion bottles from the same patients were radiometrically or visually positive. We concluded that it is necessary to perform blind subcultures of BACTEC 7B and 8B blood culture bottles

SISTEMA DE MONITORAMENTO AUTOMATIZADO

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Raiane viana Souza

2016-11-01

Full Text Available Atualmente existe uma grande necessidade de ter sistemas que auxiliem no monitoramento de ambientes, por exemplo: uma residência; permitindo assim que o usuário possa controlar e ter acesso a tudo que acontece quando o mesmo estiver ausente. Este projeto propõe realizar o desenvolvimento de um sistema de monitoramento automatizado, cujo objetivo é identificar a presença de pessoas e capturar temperaturas de um ambiente. O sistema é composto por um microcontrolador Arduíno, no qual estará acoplado: uma Webcam, sensores de presença e temperatura e um módulo wifi, que possibilitará o envio dos dados capturados ao servidor web. No protótipo desenvolvido foram implantados todos os recursos definidos com base nos requisitos do usuário, dentre os quais podem-se destacar: permitir detectar a presença de pessoas em ambiente, capturar imagens, capturar temperatura em um intervalo de tempo específico e enviar todos os dados para o servidor; permitir que o usuário visualize as informações capturadas através de um site; gerar relatórios e gráficos com as informações capturadas e permitir que o usuário exporte as informações em formato de arquivo.

Comparison of four methods for rapid identification of Staphylococcus aureus directly from BACTEC 9240 blood culture system.

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Ozen, N S; Ogunc, D; Mutlu, D; Ongut, G; Baysan, B O; Gunseren, F

2011-01-01

Differentiation of Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) from coagulase-negative staphylococci is very important in blood stream infections. Identification of S. aureus and coagulase-negative staphylococci (CoNS) from blood cultures takes generally 18-24 h after positive signaling on continuously monitored automated blood culture system. In this study, we evaluated the performance of tube coagulase test (TCT), slide agglutination test (Dry Spot Staphytect Plus), conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and LightCycler Staphylococcus MGrade kit directly from blood culture bottles to achieve rapid identification of S. aureus by using the BACTEC 9240 blood culture system. A total of 129 BACTEC 9240 bottles growing gram-positive cocci suggesting Staphylococci were tested directly from blood culture broths (BCBs) with TCT, Dry Spot Staphytect Plus, conventional PCR and LightCycler Staphylococcus MGrade kit for rapid identification of S. aureus. The sensitivities of the tests were 99, 68, 99 and 100%, respectively. Our results suggested that 2 h TCT was found to be simple and inexpensive method for the rapid identification of S. aureus directly from positive blood cultures.

Evaluation of PMS-PCR technology for detection of Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis directly from bovine fecal specimens.

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Salgado, M; Steuer, P; Troncoso, E; Collins, M T

2013-12-27

Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis (MAP) causes paratuberculosis, or Johne's disease, in animals. Diagnosis of MAP infection is challenging because of the pathogen's fastidious in vitro growth requirements and low-level intermittent shedding in feces during the preclinical phase of the infection. Detection of these "low-shedders" is important for effective control of paratuberculosis as these animals serve as sources of infection for susceptible calves. Magnetic separation technology, used in combination with culture or molecular methods for the isolation and detection of pathogenic bacteria, enhances the analytical sensitivity and specificity of detection methods. The aim of the present study was to evaluate peptide-mediated magnetic separation (PMS) capture technology coupled with IS900 PCR using the Roche real-time PCR system (PMS-PCR), in comparison with fecal culture using BACTEC-MGIT 960 system, for detection of MAP in bovine fecal samples. Among the 351 fecal samples 74.9% (263/351) were PMS-PCR positive while only 12.3% (43/351) were MGIT culture-positive (p=0.0001). All 43 MGIT culture-positive samples were also positive by PMS-PCR. Mean PMS-PCR crossing-point (Cp) values for the 13 fecal samples with the highest number of MAP, based on time to detection, (26.3) were significantly lower than for the 17 fecal samples with technology provided results in a shorter time and yielded a higher number of positive results than MGIT culture. Earlier and faster detection of animals shedding MAP by PMS-PCR should significantly strengthen control efforts for MAP-infected cattle herds by helping to limit infection transmission at earlier stages of the infection. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

The relationship between Mycobacterium tuberculosis MGIT time to positivity and cfu in sputum samples demonstrates changing bacterial phenotypes potentially reflecting the impact of chemotherapy on critical sub-populations

NARCIS (Netherlands)

Bowness, R.; Boeree, M.J.; Aarnoutse, R.; Dawson, R.; Diacon, A.; Mangu, C.; Heinrich, N.; Ntinginya, N.E.; Kohlenberg, A.; Mtafya, B.; Phillips, P.P.; Rachow, A.; Plemper van Balen, G.; Gillespie, S.H.

2015-01-01

OBJECTIVES: The relationship between cfu and Mycobacterial Growth Indicator Tube (MGIT) time to positivity (TTP) is uncertain. We attempted to understand this relationship and create a mathematical model to relate these two methods of determining mycobacterial load. METHODS: Sequential

Comparison of four methods for rapid identification of Staphylococcus aureus directly from BACTEC 9240 blood culture system

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N S Ozen

2011-01-01

Full Text Available Purpose: Differentiation of Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus from coagulase-negative staphylococci is very important in blood stream infections. Identification of S. aureus and coagulase-negative staphylococci (CoNS from blood cultures takes generally 18-24 h after positive signaling on continuously monitored automated blood culture system. In this study, we evaluated the performance of tube coagulase test (TCT, slide agglutination test (Dry Spot Staphytect Plus, conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR and LightCycler Staphylococcus MGrade kit directly from blood culture bottles to achieve rapid identification of S. aureus by using the BACTEC 9240 blood culture system. Materials and Methods: A total of 129 BACTEC 9240 bottles growing gram-positive cocci suggesting Staphylococci were tested directly from blood culture broths (BCBs with TCT, Dry Spot Staphytect Plus, conventional PCR and LightCycler Staphylococcus MGrade kit for rapid identification of S. aureus. Results: The sensitivities of the tests were 99, 68, 99 and 100%, respectively. Conclusion: Our results suggested that 2 h TCT was found to be simple and inexpensive method for the rapid identification of S. aureus directly from positive blood cultures.

Development and Validation of a Liquid Medium (M7H9C) for Routine Culture of Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis To Replace Modified Bactec 12B Medium

Science.gov (United States)

Whittington, Ann-Michele; Waldron, Anna; Begg, Douglas J.; de Silva, Kumi; Purdie, Auriol C.; Plain, Karren M.

2013-01-01

Liquid culture of Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis from clinical samples, such as feces, is the most sensitive antemortem test for the diagnosis of Johne's disease in ruminants. In Australia, New Zealand, the United States, and some other countries, the Bactec 460 system with modified Bactec 12B medium (Becton, Dickinson) has been the most commonly used liquid culture system, but it was discontinued in 2012. In this study, a new liquid culture medium, M7H9C, was developed. It consists of a Middlebrook 7H9 medium base with added Casitone, albumin, dextrose, catalase, egg yolk, mycobactin J, and a cocktail of antibiotics. We found that polyoxyethylene stearate (POES) was not essential for the cultivation of M. avium subsp. paratuberculosis in either the Bactec 12B or the M7H9C medium. The limit of detection determined using pure cultures of the C and S strains of M. avium subsp. paratuberculosis was 7 bacilli per 50 μl inoculum in the two media. The new medium was validated using 784 fecal and tissue samples from sheep and cattle, >25% of which contained viable M. avium subsp. paratuberculosis. Discrepant results for the clinical samples between the two media were mostly associated with samples that contained <10 viable bacilli per gram, but these results were relatively uncommon, and the performances of the two media were not significantly different. M7H9C medium was less than half the cost of the Bactec 12B medium and did not require regular examination during incubation, but a confirmatory IS900 PCR test had to be performed on every culture after the predetermined incubation period. PMID:24048541

SIA - Sistema de Inventário Automatizado para as bibliotecas do SIBi/USP

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Rosa Maria Fischi Zani

Full Text Available Descreve a criação e implantação do Sistema de Inventário Automatizado - SAI - para o Sistema Integrado de Bibliotecas da Universidade de São Paulo - SIBi/USP -, ressaltando as vantagens do emprego da tecnologia para tornar mais ágil, eficaz e confiável o processo. O modelo mostrou-se flexível às particularidades dos acervos e das bibliotecas. Enumera os principais requisitos para automação do procedimento, bem como as tecnologias envolvidas e disponíveis no mercado. Após aplicação de teste piloto, o modelo foi aprovado pelas bibliotecas da USP.

Using Reduced Inoculum Densities of Mycobacterium tuberculosis in MGIT Pyrazinamide Susceptibility Testing to Prevent False-Resistant Results and Improve Accuracy: A Multicenter Evaluation

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Glenn P. Morlock

2017-01-01

Full Text Available The primary platform used for pyrazinamide (PZA susceptibility testing of Mycobacterium tuberculosis is the MGIT culture system (Becton Dickinson. Since false-resistant results have been associated with the use of this system, we conducted a multicenter evaluation to determine the effect of using a reduced cell density inoculum on the rate of false resistance. Two reduced inoculum densities were compared with that prescribed by the manufacturer (designated as “BD” method. The reduced inoculum methods (designated as “A” and “C” were identical to the manufacturer’s protocol in all aspects with the exception of the cell density of the inoculum. Twenty genetically and phenotypically characterized M. tuberculosis isolates were tested in duplicate by ten independent laboratories using the three inoculum methods. False-resistant results declined from 21.1% using the standard “BD” method to 5.7% using the intermediate (“A” inoculum and further declined to 2.8% using the most dilute (“C” inoculum method. The percentages of the resistant results that were false-resistant declined from 55.2% for the “BD” test to 28.8% and 16.0% for the “A” and “C” tests, respectively. These results represent compelling evidence that the occurrence of false-resistant MGIT PZA susceptibility test results can be mitigated through the use of reduced inoculum densities.

Performance of two resin-containing blood culture media in detection of bloodstream infections and in direct matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) broth assays for isolate identification: clinical comparison of the BacT/Alert Plus and Bactec Plus systems.

Science.gov (United States)

Fiori, Barbara; D'Inzeo, Tiziana; Di Florio, Viviana; De Maio, Flavio; De Angelis, Giulia; Giaquinto, Alessia; Campana, Lara; Tanzarella, Eloisa; Tumbarello, Mario; Antonelli, Massimo; Sanguinetti, Maurizio; Spanu, Teresa

2014-10-01

We compared the clinical performances of the BacT/Alert Plus (bioMérieux) and Bactec Plus (Becton Dickinson) aerobic and anaerobic blood culture (BC) media with adsorbent polymeric beads. Patients ≥ 16 years old with suspected bloodstream infections (BSIs) were enrolled in intensive care units and infectious disease wards. A single 40-ml blood sample was collected from each and used to inoculate (10 ml/bottle) one set of BacT/Alert Plus cultures and one set of Bactec Plus cultures, each set consisting of one aerobic and one anaerobic bottle. Cultures were incubated ≤ 5 days in the BacT/Alert 3D and Bactec FX instruments, respectively. A total of 128 unique BSI episodes were identified based on the recovery of clinically significant growth in 212 aerobic cultures (106 BacT/Alert and 106 Bactec) and 151 anaerobic cultures (82 BacT/Alert and 69 Bactec). The BacT/Alert aerobic medium had higher recovery rates for Gram-positive cocci (P = 0.024), whereas the Bactec aerobic medium was superior for recovery of Gram-negative bacilli (P = 0.006). BacT/Alert anaerobic medium recovery rates exceeded those of the Bactec anaerobic medium for total organisms (P = 0.003), Gram-positive cocci (P = 0.013), and Escherichia coli (P = 0.030). In terms of capacity for diagnosing the 128 septic episodes, the BacT/Alert and Bactec sets were comparable, although the former sets diagnosed more BSIs caused by Gram-positive cocci (P = 0.008). They also allowed earlier identification of coagulase-negative staphylococcal growth (mean, 2.8 h; P = 0.003) and growth in samples from patients not on antimicrobial therapy that yielded positive results (mean, 1.3 h; P direct matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry assay of BC broths. The BacT/Alert Plus media line appears to be a reliable, timesaving tool for routine detection of BSIs in the population we studied, although further studies are needed to evaluate their performance in other settings. Copyright �

Sistema Automatizado GRiesgo v.1 para la Gestión de Riesgo por impacto de rayos en estructuras y servicios

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Olga Susana Suárez

2011-10-01

Full Text Available La descarga eléctrica atmosférica es uno de los fenómenos naturales que causa más daños en la Isla de Cuba ya sea en los sistemas eléctricos y de comunicaciones así como en las instalaciones industriales. En el trabajo sereporta un sistema automatizado para la gestión de riesgos por rayos en estructuras y/o servicios denominado GRiesgo v.1. El Sistema Automatizado GRiesgo v.1, diseñado y programado para plataforma de 32 bits en lenguaje Visual Basic sobre un libro Microsoft Excel 2003, se basa en la parte 2 de la norma internacional IEC 62305, Gestiónde Riesgo, propuesta para su adopción junto a las partes 1, 3 y 4, como norma cubana. Teniendo en cuenta aspectos técnicos y económicos, el GRiesgo v.1 permite la correcta selección de las medidas de protecciónnecesarias para minimizar los riesgos a valores inferiores a los tolerables. Se presentan resultados prácticos de la aplicación del Sistema Automatizado GRiesgo v.1. The atmospheric electric discharge is the natural events that more damage causes in the island cuban either in those in the electrics and communications systems like industrial facilities. In this work, an Automated System, called GRiesgo v.1, to assess the risks of lightning for structures and/or services, is presented. The automatedsystem GRiesgo v.1, designed and programmed in Visual Basic upon Microsoft Excel 2003 for a 32 bits platform, is based on the IEC 62305 International Standard part 2, Risk Management, which is proposed to be adopted along with part 1, 3 and 4 as the Cuban Standard. Keeping in mind technical and economic aspects, GRiesgo v.1 allowsdetermining the necessary measures to be taken to minimize risks below what is today considered acceptable values. Results of the implementation of Automated System GRiesgo v.1 are also presented.

La medida de la eficiencia económica de las inversiones en sistemas automatizados de gestión productiva, SAGP

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Bernardo Parra Restrepo

1997-06-01

Full Text Available Este artículo presenta una idea general de los sistemas automatizados de gestión productiva cuya aplicación industrial ha sido una tendencia irreversible en los últimos años. También propone una metodología para la medición de la eficiencia económica aplicable a las inversiones hechas en automatización y sistematización de procesos industriales y administrativos. De manera simple se entiende por eficiencia económica el cálculo de la relación existente entre los costos de producción de cada unidad producida y los beneficios económicos obtenidos. Los sistemas automatizados de gestión productiva SAGP, son estructuras mixtas complejas integradas por el hombre y dispositivos técnicos compuestos por máquinas calculadoras de alta velocidad, conexos con dispositivos de dirección de medios electrónicos y mecánicos adaptados a la planificación, ejecución, medición y control de procesos de producción que se localizan generalmente en las fases de generación de energía, transmisión, manufactura y ensamble de productos.

Un prototipo de software para un examen objetivo automatizado de alternativas múltiples con niveles de ayuda

OpenAIRE

Zuloaga Rotta, Luis Alberto; Zuloaga Rotta, Luis Alberto; Zuloaga Rotta, Luis Alberto

2013-01-01

En el presente documento se expone la propuesta de mejora en la evaluación de los alumnos a través de la construcción de un prototipo de software que facilite la aplicación de exámenes objetivos automatizados de alternativas múltiples y que incorporan, para algunas preguntas, el uso de ayudas, todo ello con la finalidad de mejorar el proceso de evaluación y hacer más eficiente el proceso de calificación de las preguntas. La investigación a realizar para nuestro caso será exploratoria, causal,...

Complicações iniciais do uso de dois microceratótomos automatizados Initial complications of two automated microkeratomes

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Monica do Carmo Passos

2001-06-01

Full Text Available Objetivo: Descrever as complicações per e pós-operatórias ocorridas durante o uso inicial de dois microceratótomos automatizados na realização de LASIK. Métodos: Estudo retrospectivo das primeiras cirurgias realizadas com dois microceratótomos automatizados, sendo 70 olhos de 54 pacientes utilizando o microceratótomo da Chiron® modelo Automated Corneal Shaper (ACS, no período de abril de 1997 a abril de 1998 e 100 olhos de 82 pacientes com o microceratótomo automatizado Moria® Carriazo-Barraquer (CB, durante o período de fevereiro de 1999 a junho de 1999. A fotoablação foi realizada com excimer laser de fluoreto de argônio de 193 nm da Summit modelo Apex Plus®. Foram avaliadas as complicações per e pós-operatórias até um mês de seguimento. Resultados: A fotoablação não foi realizada em 3 casos (4,3% usando-se o microceratótomo ACS e em 1 caso (1% usando o microceratótomo CB. As complicações mais freqüentemente encontradas com o ACS foram: falha no retorno automatizado do microceratótomo (7,1%, ceratectomia parcial ("flap" incompleto: 4,3%, presença de dobras estromais (14,3%, desepitelização central (4,3% e crescimento epitelial na interface (4,3%. Já com o CB, foram encontrados: "flap" descentralizado (3%, desepitelização central (5%, dobras estromais (28% e síndrome das Areias de Sahara (6%. Conclusões: O uso inicial de ambos microceratótomos foi relacionado a considerável índice de complicações per e pós-operatórias, não levando necessariamente à perda de visão. Maior conhecimento clínico das alterações ocorridas com o uso destes instrumentos, bem como maior experiência na sua utilização podem diminuir a ocorrência de complicações.Purpose: To describe per- and postoperative complications which occurred with the first use of two automated microkeratomes for the performance of LASIK. Methods: Retrospective study of first surgeries performed with two automated microkeratomes. Seventy

In vitro antituberculous activity of thymoquinone, an active principle of nigella sativa

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Randhawa, M.A.

2011-01-01

Background: Nigella sativa seed has been used in folk medicine against many ailments including infections. The present study was aimed to investigate activity of thymoquinone, in vitro, against clinical isolates of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Methods: Mycobacteria obtained from patients of King Fahd Hospital of University, Alkhobar, Saudi Arabia were subcultured at 37 degree C in MGIT tubes containing Middle brook broth and OADC growth supplement and growth detected by BACTEC Micro MGIT fluoro meter on day 10. Mycobacteria were then inoculated in MGIT tubes containing thymoquinone 2.5, 5, 10, 20, 40, 80 micro g/ml, streptomycin 1.25 micro g/ml or controls in Middle brook broth plus supplement, incubated at 37 degree C for 14 days and read daily for fluorescence. In addition, isolates were inoculated in culture tubes containing Middle brook agar (plus supplement) in presence of thymoquinone 2.5, 5, 10, 20, 40, 80 micro g/ml, streptomycin 1.25 micro g/ml or controls, and incubated at 37 degree C for 4 weeks. Results: In Middle brook broth, fluorescence test for tuberculosis was negative with thymoquinone 20, 40 and 80 micro g/ml and streptomycin 1.25 micro g/ml up to day 14. With controls, thymoquinone 2.5, 5 and 10 micro g/ml fluorescence was detectable from day 10 to 14. In Middle brook agar, there was no visible growth of tubercle bacillus with thymoquinone 20, 40 and 80 micro g/ml and streptomycin 1.25 micro g/ml, however, with controls, thymoquinone 2.5 and 5 micro g/ml abundant and with 10 micro g/ml few colonies were observed. Conclusions: Thymoquinone possesses activity against M. tuberculosis with MIC of 20 micro g/ml and has potential for further investigation. Our study confirms the benefit of N. sativa in native medicine against chest infection. (author)

SAM - Sistema Automatizado del Método MECAP para Especificar Casos de Prueba

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Kenyer Domínguez

2010-12-01

Full Text Available Existen cuatro elementos que son relevantes al momento de definir las pruebas: Confiabilidad, Costo, Tiempo y Calidad. El tiempo de desarrollo y el costo del producto se incrementan cuando se desean pruebas confiables y un software de calidad. Pero ¿qué se puede hacer para que los involucrados comprendan que las pruebas deben ser vistas como una red de seguridad? Si la calidad no se contempla antes de comenzar las pruebas, entonces ella no estará cuando se éstas terminen. El objetivo de este artículo es presentar la herramienta, SAM – Sistema Automatizado del Método MECAP que permite especificar Casos de Prueba a partir de Casos de Uso incorporando elementos que promueven la verificación y validación de la trazabilidad entre la Gestión de Requerimientos, el Análisis y Diseño y las Pruebas. SAM soporta el proceso de pruebas de forma automatizada, mejorando la confiabilidad de las mismas

Early identification of microorganisms in blood culture prior to the detection of a positive signal in the BACTEC FX system using matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry.

Science.gov (United States)

Wang, Ming-Cheng; Lin, Wei-Hung; Yan, Jing-Jou; Fang, Hsin-Yi; Kuo, Te-Hui; Tseng, Chin-Chung; Wu, Jiunn-Jong

2015-08-01

Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) is a valuable method for rapid identification of blood stream infection (BSI) pathogens. Integration of MALDI-TOF MS and blood culture system can speed the identification of causative BSI microorganisms. We investigated the minimal microorganism concentrations of common BSI pathogens required for positive blood culture using BACTEC FX and for positive identification using MALDI-TOF MS. The time to detection with positive BACTEC FX and minimal incubation time with positive MALDI-TOF MS identification were determined for earlier identification of common BSI pathogens. The minimal microorganism concentrations required for positive blood culture using BACTEC FX were >10(7)-10(8) colony forming units/mL for most of the BSI pathogens. The minimal microorganism concentrations required for identification using MALDI-TOF MS were > 10(7) colony forming units/mL. Using simulated BSI models, one can obtain enough bacterial concentration from blood culture bottles for successful identification of five common Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria using MALDI-TOF MS 1.7-2.3 hours earlier than the usual time to detection in blood culture systems. This study provides an approach to earlier identification of BSI pathogens prior to the detection of a positive signal in the blood culture system using MALDI-TOF MS, compared to current methods. It can speed the time for identification of BSI pathogens and may have benefits of earlier therapy choice and on patient outcome. Copyright © 2013. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Comparación entre dos inmunoensayos automatizados por quimioluminiscencia para la cuantificación de 25(OH) vitamina D

OpenAIRE

Torrubia, B.; Alonso, I.; López-Ramiro, E.; Mahillo, I.; De la Piedra, C.

2016-01-01

Introducción: La cuantificación de 25(OH) vitamina D total en sangre es el marcador más preciso del estado de vitamina D en un individuo. La técnica patrón-oro para su medición es la cromatografía líquida/espectrometría de masas en tándem (LC-MS/MS), aunque actualmente los laboratorios clínicos utilizan de rutina técnicas de quimioluminiscencia. El objetivo del estudio fue comparar las concentraciones de 25(OH) vitamina D obtenidas mediante dos métodos automatizados comerciales y estudiar la ...

Lack of clinical relevance in routine final subcultures of radiometrically negative BACTEC blood culture vials

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Plorde, J.J.; Carlson, L.G.; Dau, M.E.

1982-01-01

During a 38-month period, 10,106 blood specimens were received in the laboratory for culture. These were inoculated into 26,424 vials and processed using the BACTEC radiometric detection system. Of these vials, 1,914 were eventually found to be microbiologically positive. Isolates from 836 vials were judged to be contaminants. In the remaining 1,078 vials, growth was first detected visually or radiometrically in 1,062 and by final subculture in 16. Growth from these sixteen bottles represented 12 clinically significant bacteremic episodes in as many patients. In nine of these episodes, other culture vials from the same patient were positive radiometrically. Therefore, 358 of 361 (99.2%) bacteremic episodes were detected without the benefit of routine final subcultures. The three patients whose bacteremia was missed were diagnosed clinically and placed on appropriate therapy prior to the detection of the bacteremias by final subculture

Prevalence of paratuberculosis in the dairy goat and dairy sheep industries in Ontario, Canada

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Bauman, Cathy A.; Jones-Bitton, Andria; Menzies, Paula

2016-01-01

). Using 3-test latent class Bayesian models, true farm-level prevalence was estimated to be 83.0% [95% probability interval (PI): 62.6% to 98.1%] for dairy goats and 66.8% (95% PI: 41.6% to 91.4%) for dairy sheep. The within-farm true prevalence for dairy goats was 35.2% (95% PI: 23.0% to 49......A cross-sectional study was undertaken (October 2010 to August 2011) to estimate the prevalence of paratuberculosis in the small ruminant dairy industries in Ontario, Canada. Blood and feces were sampled from 580 goats and 397 sheep (lactating and 2 y of age or older) that were randomly selected...... from 29 randomly selected dairy goat herds and 21 convenience -selected dairy sheep flocks. Fecal samples were analyzed using bacterial culture (BD BACTEC MGIT 960) and polymerase chain reaction (Tetracore); serum samples were tested with the Prionics Parachek enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA...

[Evaluation of mycobacterial microscopy and culture results of Sureyyapasa Chest Diseases and Chest Surgery Training and Research Hospital: A 3-year analysis].

Science.gov (United States)

Akduman Alaşehir, Elçin; Balıkçı, Ahmet; Partal, Mualla; Çatmabacak, Gülay; Yaman, Görkem

2016-09-01

Effective diagnosis of tuberculosis is of great importance for transmission control and treatment success. The purpose of this study is to evaluate microscopic examination results of Ehrlich-Ziehl Neelsen (EZN) and Auramine-Rhodamine staining methods and automated BACTEC MGIT 960™ system and Löwenstein-Jensen (L-J) culture results of various clinical samples in the light of recent data from the world and Turkey. Specimens that were sent from various clinics to Sureyyapasa Chest Diseases and Chest Surgery Training and Research Hospital Microbiology Laboratory from January 2012 to December 2015 were evaluated retrospectively. From a total of 62456 samples; 60923 (97.5%) were pulmonary and 1533 (2.5%) were non-pulmonary samples, especially pleura. 2853 (4.6%) Acid-resistant bacilli (ARB) positivity was detected and mycobacterial culture positivity was in total 12.2%. 7076 (93%) and 535 (7%) mycobacteria other than tuberculosis (MOTT) strains were isolated. In 356 specimens the cultures were negative in despite the positive ARB results. Considering mycobacterial culture as the gold standard; the sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values of ARB microscopy were 32.8%, 99.4%, 87.5% and 91.4%, respectively. The contamination rates in total were within acceptable limits being 2.7% for L-J and 3.8% for MGIT. Analysis of our data indicated that the sensitivity of microscopy is low and it should be evaluated together with the mycobacterial culture to rule out tuberculosis infection. With the use of fluorescent staining and also L-J and MGIT broth together for routine culture since 2013; ARB false negativity rate was observed to fall to 51.7% from 74.1% compared to the years. The follow-up of data such as the sensitivity of microscopy, culture positivity, false-positivity and false-negativity rates and contamination values is of great importance in terms of assessing compliance with laboratory quality standards and contributing to the surveillance

The Performance of the Four Anaerobic Blood Culture Bottles BacT/ALERT-FN, -FN Plus, BACTEC-Plus and -Lytic in Detection of Anaerobic Bacteria and Identification by Direct MALDI-TOF MS.

Science.gov (United States)

Almuhayawi, Mohammed; Altun, Osman; Abdulmajeed, Adam Dilshad; Ullberg, Måns; Özenci, Volkan

2015-01-01

Detection and identification of anaerobic bacteria in blood cultures (BC) is a well-recognized challenge in clinical microbiology. We studied 100 clinical anaerobic BC isolates to evaluate the performance of BacT/ALERT-FN, -FN Plus (BioMérieux), BACTEC-Plus and -Lytic (Becton Dickinson BioSciences) BC bottles in detection and time to detection (TTD) of anaerobic bacteria. BACTEC Lytic had higher detection rate (94/100, 94%) than BacT/ALERT FN Plus (80/100, 80%) (panaerobic bacteria among the remaining bottle types. The 67 anaerobic bacteria that signalled positive in all four bottle types were analyzed to compare the time to detection (TTD) and isolates were directly identified by MALDI-TOF MS. There was a significant difference in TTD among the four bottle types (panaerobic BC bottles are equally suitable for direct MALDI-TOF MS for rapid and reliable identification of common anaerobic bacteria. Further clinical studies are warranted to investigate the performance of anaerobic BC bottles in detection of anaerobic bacteria and identification by direct MALDI-TOF MS.

Uma abordagem metodológica para o desenvolvimento de sistemas automatizados e integrados de manufatura A methodological approach to automated and integrated manufacturing systems development

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Marco Antonio Busetti de Paula

2008-01-01

Full Text Available Este trabalho apresenta uma metodologia de projeto aplicada a sistemas automatizados e integrados de manufatura. A metodologia consiste em um desenvolvimento cíclico de três etapas - modelagem, síntese e implementação - até o atendimento da aplicação demandada para o sistema real, resultando no projeto do sistema automatizado integrado. Esta forma de desenvolvimento permite uma revisão contínua dos resultados obtidos em cada etapa. Para testar e validar a metodologia, é apresentado um exemplo de re-projeto de um protótipo de sistema de manufatura em função da necessidade de inserção de um novo produto.This paper presents a methodology of project applied to automated and integrated manufacturing systems. The methodology consists of a cyclic three stages development - modeling, synthesis and implementation - till the accomplishment of the application required by the real system, resulting in the project of the automated and integrated system. This kind of development allows a continuous revision of the results of each stage. To submit to a test and to validate the methodology, it is given an example of a re-project of a prototype of a manufacturing system at the time of the introduction of a new product on the market.

Simulación de un Sistema de Desodorización de Aceite Vegetal por Medio de un Control Industrial Automatizado

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Noel Jair Zambrano Sánchez

2014-03-01

Full Text Available En este artículo se presenta la simulación de un proceso industrial alimenticio automatizado. El tener automatizado un proceso lleva a la planta a mejorar sus estándares lo que genera que el producto y el usuario final sean los más beneficiados, garantizando la calidad y pureza necesarias, solicitadas actualmente en el exigente mercado nacional e internacional. Este proyecto es de carácter industrial con aplicación en el área de electrónica, automatización y control de procesos, y se podrá aplicar a la vida real brindándole un valor agregado al proceso mecánico que ya existe. Se aplicarán conocimientos teórico-prácticos viables y sostenibles. El paso de migrar señales análogas o digitales de diferentes sensores y enviados mediante un controlador lógico programable e interactuando con una interface gráfica HMI (interface hombre máquina, logrará que un proceso de características manuales se pueda automatizar controlando sus entradas y salidas de manera cíclica y efectiva, enviando reportes en tiempo real del consumo de servicios o generando alarmas que prevengan problemas en la planta, garantizando así un control total del proceso. El manejo industrial de aceites y grasas es muy amplio y conocido. El área de la automatización provee un medio de control para la estandarización del proceso y la certificación, ofreciendo una alta calidad al producto final. El proceso, objeto de este trabajo, es el de desodorización del aceite vegetal el cual se explicará a lo largo del presente documento.

APLICACIÓN DE UN SISTEMA AUTOMATIZADO PARA LANZADORES DE PENALTY EN FÚTBOL

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M.A. Martínez

2010-09-01

Full Text Available

RESUMEN

A pesar de reconocerse como la base del rendimiento de la mayoría de habilidades deportivas, pocos entrenadores reconocen que el funcionamiento de la visión es una habilidad aprendida susceptible de mejora. El objetivo principal de este estudio pretende medir la eficacia en goles y táctica individual de lanzadores expertos de penalty en fútbol utilizando un novedoso sistema automatizado de emisión de estímulos visuales aplicado en la situación habitual de campo. Lanzadores de penalty (n = 9 realizaron una prueba pre-tratamiento de 24 intentos en situación real frente a porteros (n = 3. Posteriormente, completaron un entrenamiento de 10 sesiones utilizando el sistema automatizado sin porteros y, finalmente, repitieron de nuevo la misma prueba inicial consiguiendo entonces significativamente más goles en la medida post-tratamiento. Además, se encontraron diferencias tácticas en base a la dirección de los lanzamientos respecto a la actuación del portero. Los resultados sugieren que el lanzamiento de penalty en fútbol puede plantearse como una habilidad motriz abierta, en función de la actuación del portero, reduciendo el tiempo de procesamiento de la información y de la toma de decisiones.
PALABRAS CLAVE: Entrenamiento visual, lanzador, penalty, fútbol, expertos, toma de decisiones, control motor.

ABSTRACT

Despite recognising like the performance’s base of the majority of sports abilities, few trainers recognise that visual function is a learned ability that can be improved. The main aim of this study tries to measure efficacy in goals and individual tactic of high-skill penalty-kickers in soccer using a new automatic system of emission visual stimulus applied in the

Estudo do comportamento do aço API 5L X80 quando submetido à soldagem por processo automatizado Study on the behavior of API 5L X80 steel when subjected to automated welding process

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Siderley Fernandes Albuquerque

2012-06-01

Full Text Available No Brasil, a soldagem de tubulações tem sido praticamente de forma manual, entretanto, a utilização de processos de soldagem automatizados têm crescido muito nos últimos anos, contribuindo para o maior controle dos parâmetros de soldagem, e conseqüentemente, a possibilidade de obtenção de juntas soldadas com melhores propriedades mecânicas. A soldagem de tubulações com aço API 5L X80 ainda vem sendo avaliada no Brasil no que diz respeito aos melhores procedimentos, parâmetros e processos de soldagem; a aplicação de processos automatizados nas condições específicas de campo constitui em uma opção ainda incipiente no país por se discutir ainda a relação custo/benefício com a sua implantação. Logo, o objetivo deste trabalho é avaliar o comportamento na ZTA de juntas soldadas do aço API 5L X80 utilizados para transporte de petróleo e gás quando submetidos à soldagem com diferentes parâmetros, procedimentos e processos de soldagem, incluindo o processo automatizado; os resultados indicam além da redução da extensão e do tamanho de grão da ZTA a preservação da estrutura bainítica do metal de base nesta região nas soldagem executadas com processos automatizados.The welding of pipes has been largely manual in Brazil, however, the use of automated welding processes have greatly increased in recent years, contributing to greater control of welding parameters, and consequently, the possibility of obtaining welded joints with better mechanical properties. The welding of pipes of API 5L X80 steel has been evaluated in Brazil considering to best practices, parameters and welding processes; the implementation of automated processes in the specific field conditions is relevant project and innovative design in this area. Therefore, the objective is to evaluate the behavior in the HAZ of the API 5L X80 steel used for transporting oil and gas when subjected to automated welding processes; the results indicated besides the

Automated Recognition of Bioacoustic Signals: a Review of Methods and Applications Reconocimiento automatizado de señales bioacústicas: Una revisión de métodos y aplicaciones

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Paula Catalina Caycedo-Rosales

2013-11-01

Full Text Available During the past decade, numerous research studies and applications on automated bioacoustic monitoring have been published; however, such studies are scattered in the literature of engineering and life sciences. This paper presents a review on fundamental concepts of automated acoustic monitoring. Our aim is to compare and categorize —in a taxonomy of techniques DSP/PR— the contributions of published research studies and applications; in order to suggest some directions for future research and highlight challenges and opportunities related to the deployment of this technology in Colombia.Durante la última década se ha publicado una gran cantidad de estudios de investigación y aplicaciones sobre monitoreo bioacústico automatizado. No obstante, tales estudios están dispersos en la literatura de ingeniería y ciencias biológicas. En este artículo se presentan conceptos fundamentales sobre monitoreo bioacústico automatizado; se revisan, comparan y categorizan —en una taxonomía de técnicas de DSP/PR— las contribuciones de las investigaciones y las aplicaciones publicadas; se sugieren algunas direcciones para investigaciones futuras y se resaltan los retos y las oportunidades relacionados con la instalación de esta tecnología en Colombia.

Comparison of Overnight Pooled and Standard Sputum Collection Method for Patients with Suspected Pulmonary Tuberculosis in Northern Tanzania

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Stellah G. Mpagama

2012-01-01

Full Text Available In Tanzania sputum culture for tuberculosis (TB is resource intensive and available only at zonal facilities. In this study overnight pooled sputum collection technique was compared with standard spot morning collection among pulmonary TB suspects at Kibong’oto National TB Hospital in Tanzania. A spot sputum specimen performed at enrollment, an overnight pooled sputum, and single morning specimen were collected from 50 subjects and analyzed for quality, quantity, and time to detection in Bactec MGIT system. Forty-six (92% subjects’ overnight pooled specimens had a volume ≥5 mls compared to 37 (37% for the combination of spot and single morning specimens (P<0.001. Median time to detection was 96 hours (IQR 87–131 for the overnight pooled specimens compared to 110.5 hours (IQR is 137 right 137–180 for the combination of both spot and single morning specimens (P=0.001. In our setting of limited TB culture capacity, we recommend a single pooled sputum to maximize yield and speed time to diagnosis.

Antibacterial Activity of Medicinal Aqueous Plant Extracts against Mycobacterium tuberculosis

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Muna Mohammed Buzayan

2012-09-01

Full Text Available Tuberculosis (TB remains a serious health problem in many regions of the world, and the development of resistance to antibiotics by this microbe created the need for new drugs to replace those which have lost effectiveness. This study assesses the medicinal anti-Mycobacterium tuberculosis properties of natural products obtained from plants collected from Eastern Libya. In this study aqueous extracts of nine different plants were assayed for their Mycobacterium tuberculosis inhibitory activity using the BACTEC MGIT960 susceptibility test method. The aqueous extracts of Ceratonia siliqua L, Helichrysum stoechas (L. Moench and Thymus algeriensis did not show any activity against M. tuberculosis in different concentrations. The aqueous extract of Marrubium vulgare L. from Syria showed high activity against M. tuberculosis. Marrubium alysson L., Marrubium vulgare L., Pistacia lentiscus L, Quercus coccifera L, Thymus capitatus (L. Hoffm. & Link, showed varying degrees of activity against M. tuberculosis. The results of this study show that aqueous extracts from six different medicinal plants have different effects against M. tuberculosis in vitro.

Desenvolvimento de sistema automatizado de baixo custo para coleta e armazenamento de dados de variáveis climáticas: aplicações no ambiente agrícola

OpenAIRE

Anderson Marcelli Palmieri

2009-01-01

As variáveis climáticas como temperatura do ar, umidade relativa do ar e radiação solar exercem grande influência sobre a produção agrícola, sendo capazes de ocasionar perdas durante o processo produtivo, acarretando em um aumento considerável no preço do produto final. Desse modo, a presente pesquisa teve por objetivo, desenvolver um sistema automatizado de baixo custo, tendo como base o microcontrolador Basic Step 1, o qual gerenciou um circuito eletrônico capaz de coletar e armazenar dados...

Superior sensitivity and decreased time to detection with the Bactec Peds Plus/F system compared to the BacT/Alert Pediatric FAN blood culture system.

Science.gov (United States)

Sullivan, K V; Turner, N N; Lancaster, D P; Shah, A R; Chandler, L J; Friedman, D F; Blecker-Shelly, D L

2013-12-01

Here, we compare the sensitivities and times to detection (TTD) of BacT/Alert Pediatric FAN (PF) and Bactec Peds Plus blood culture bottles. Test bottles were inoculated with 2 ml of banked whole blood, 1-ml aliquots of antibiotic suspension, and organisms diluted to simulate a bacteremia level of 10 to 100 CFU/ml. The control bottles were inoculated with 3 ml of banked blood and organism suspensions only. The organism-drug combinations were Staphylococcus epidermidis and vancomycin, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and vancomycin, Streptococcus pneumoniae, vancomycin, and ceftriaxone, Streptococcus agalactiae, ampicillin, and cefotaxime, Escherichia coli, cefotaxime, and cefepime, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, piperacillin-tazobactam, cefepime, and gentamicin, Neisseria meningitidis and ceftriaxone, and Haemophilus influenzae and ceftriaxone. The control and test bottle combinations were tested in duplicate. The bottles were incubated for 5 days; 32 control and 104 test bottles were incubated. Overall, the bacterial recovery rates for the PF and Peds Plus bottles were 37% and 62%, 94% and 100% in the controls, 19% and 50% in the test bottles, and 33% and 92% in the bottles with vancomycin, respectively. No bacteria were recovered from the bottles with S. pneumoniae, S. agalactiae, E. coli, N. meningitidis, or H. influenzae in combination with cefotaxime or ceftriaxone. The Peds Plus system detected P. aeruginosa in bottles with cefepime and piperacillin-tazobactam, but the PF system recovered bacteria only in bottles with trough levels of piperacillin-tazobactam. The mean TTD were shorter in the Peds Plus system controls (14.2 versus 18.0 h; P = 0.001) and the test bottles (14.3 versus 17.8 h; P = 0.008) than in the PF bottles. Overall, we demonstrated superior sensitivity, TTD, and antibiotic neutralization in the Bactec Peds Plus system compared to those in the Pediatric FAN system.

El Portafolio Digital como estrategia didáctica: la experiencia del curso Servicios de Información Automatizados

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Ginnette Calvo Guillén

2014-01-01

Full Text Available En esta investigación se presenta una experiencia de implementación del Portafolio Digital como estrategia didáctica en dos grupos del curso Servicios de Información Automatizados, pertenecientes al segundo año del tronco común de las carreras de Bachillerato de la Escuela de Bibliotecología y Ciencias de la Información de la Universidad de Costa Rica. La estrategia fue desarrollada individualmente y tuvo como objetivos construir un sitio web como espacio de reflexión acerca de los aprendizajes alcanzados durante el curso, así como crear un servicio de información para desarrollar destrezas evaluando y seleccionando fuentes de información confiables en línea. Con la estrategia se logró que el estudiantado concientizara sobre su responsabilidad en el proceso de construcción del conocimiento y permitió la realimentación recíproca, así como la identificación de fuentes de información confiables en línea.

Cálculo automatizado de la planimetría en la elaboración de programas de manejo forestal

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C. A. Aguirre-Salado

2005-01-01

Full Text Available Se generó una propuesta metodológica para el cálculo automatizado de la planimetría en los programas de manejo forestal, tomando como estudio de caso el programa del predio forestal Santa María Candelaria, Yautepec, Oaxaca. La metodología se basa en la utilización del software AutoCAD Map 2000, ortofotografías digitales, datos vectoriales de curvas de nivel y escurrimientos hidrológicos superficiales. La topología de polígono se creó a partir de las capas que contienen los LÍMITES del predio, RODALES y SUBRODALES. Asimismo, se crearon las topologías de red a partir de la capa de escurrimientos y caminos, respectivamente. Después, las capas se intersectaron con las capas de subrodales. Por último, se comparó la eficiencia en cuanto a precisión, tiempo y costo del método propuesto contra el método tradicional, y resultó más eficiente, el primero.

Impacto da automação no diagnóstico de infecções por micobactérias Impact of automation in the diagnosis of mycobacterial infection

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Carmen Paz Oplustil

2002-07-01

Full Text Available A tuberculose é uma doença de importância mundial e há alguns anos, em muitos países, foi quase erradicada, mas, com o advento da Aids, novos casos da doença começaram a ocorrer, com o agravante do surgimento de cepas resistentes a diversos antimicrobianos. Concomitantemente a este aumento na incidência de tuberculose, as metodologias diagnósticas apresentaram avanços consideráveis, e atualmente existem diversas metodologias manuais ou automatizadas para um diagnóstico mais rápido das infecções por micobactérias. Um dos sistemas semi-automatizados, o Bactec 460 (Becton Dickinson Diagnostic Systems, Sparks, MD, é utilizado para detectar a presença de micobactérias em espécimes clínicos, realizar testes de sensibilidade aos antimicrobianos e fazer a diferenciação entre micobactérias do complexo tuberculosis e as não-pertencentes a este complexo, diminuindo o tempo do processo em vários dias. O intuito deste trabalho foi verificar o impacto ocasionado com a introdução de um sistema semi-automatizado na rotina do laboratório. No período de janeiro a junho de 1995, foram processadas, pelo método tradicional de cultura em meio de Lowenstein-Jensen (LJ, 326 amostras, das quais 39 (12% foram positivas, sendo 77% destas identificadas como Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Do total de amostras positivas para M. tuberculosis, 29 (74,3% apresentaram um prazo de detecção superior a 30 dias. No mesmo período, no ano de 1997, com a introdução do sistema semi-automatizado, foram processadas 340 amostras, das quais 50 (14,7% foram positivas, sendo 46% destas identificadas como Mycobacterium tuberculosis. O tempo médio para detecção do crescimento das amostras positivas para M. tuberculosis foi de 12 dias. A implantação do sistema automatizado para culturas de micobactérias proporcionou um aumento no número de isolamento de diferentes espécies, em diversos materiais clínicos, com diminuição no tempo de detecção, além de

Aplicación de un sistema automatizado para el aprendizaje y el entrenamiento del tenis en condiciones de interferencia contextual

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Ruperto Menayo Antúnez

2009-06-01

Full Text Available En este trabajo se presentan los efectos de la aplicación de un sistema automatizado para el aprendizaje del tenis en condiciones de interferencia contextual. Dicho sistema permite el registro de la precisión alcanzada en los golpeos mediante un protocolo de filmación audiovisual. Una vez filmadas las imágenes se aplica un proceso de digitalización para analizar el error variable de los envíos, determinando así la consistencia de los golpeos. Se analizaron los resultados obtenidos por 8 tenistas, tras un periodo de aprendizaje de 3 semanas, valorando el mantenimiento del rendimiento mediante 4 tests de retención, realizados posteriormente a la fase de aprendizaje inicial. Los resultados muestran mejoras en los cuatro golpes practicados tras el periodo de aprendizaje, así como una tendencia poco acusada de pérdida del rendimiento tras los periodos sin práctica.

Evaluation of rapid immuno chromatographic assay kit using monoclonal mpt64 antibodies for identification of mycobacterium tuberculosis complex

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Satti, L.; Ikram, A.; Malik, N.

2010-01-01

To evaluate the performance of rapid immuno chromatographic kit MPT64 Ag for the identification of Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex from various Mycobacterium tuberculosis culture positive specimens. Department of Microbiology, Armed Forces Institute of Pathology Rawalpindi, from August 2008 through March 2009. Eighty four Mycobacterium tuberculosis positive cultures on I BACTEC 460 and MGIT 960, one ATCC 25177 MTB strain, three institutional control MTB strains, two institutional control MOTT strains and 20 different bacterial isolates were tested. Tests were performed according to the instructional manual. Out of total 84 tested samples, MPT64 showed positive result in 80 cultures. Only four positive cultures did not display any band on MPT64 kit. These four strains were reconfirmed as Mycobacterium tuberculosis by PCR method. MOTT control strains and all the 20 bacterial isolates were negative for band. The sensitivity and specificity of ICT assay in our study was 95.2% and 100% respectively. Rapid MPT64 Kit is a good diagnostic tool to differentiate between Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex and MOTT with 100% specificity. The technique is simple and can provide prompt information to the clinicians to initiate early and appropriate antituberculosis therapy. (author)

Unanticipated Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex culture inhibition by immune modulators, immune suppressants, a growth enhancer, and vitamins A and D: clinical implications.

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Greenstein, Robert J; Su, Liya; Shahidi, Azra; Brown, William D; Clifford, Anya; Brown, Sheldon T

2014-09-01

The development of novel antibiotics to treat multidrug-resistant (MDR) tuberculosis is time-consuming and expensive. Multiple immune modulators, immune suppressants, anti-inflammatories, and growth enhancers, and vitamins A and D, inhibit Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis (MAP) in culture. We studied the culture inhibition of Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex by these agents. Biosafety level two M. tuberculosis complex (ATCC 19015 and ATCC 25177) was studied in radiometric Bactec or MGIT culture. Agents evaluated included clofazimine, methotrexate, 6-mercaptopurine, cyclosporine A, rapamycin, tacrolimus, monensin, and vitamins A and D. All the agents mentioned above caused dose-dependent inhibition of the M. tuberculosis complex. There was no inhibition by the anti-inflammatory 5-aminosalicylic acid, which causes bacteriostatic inhibition of MAP. We conclude that, at a minimum, studies with virulent M. tuberculosis are indicated with the agents mentioned above, as well as with the thioamide 5-propothiouricil, which has previously been shown to inhibit the M. tuberculosis complex in culture. Our data additionally emphasize the importance of vitamins A and D in treating mycobacterial diseases. Copyright © 2014 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.

Evaluation of the BD BACTEC FX blood volume monitoring system as a continuous quality improvement measure.

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Coorevits, L; Van den Abeele, A-M

2015-07-01

The yield of blood cultures is proportional to the volume of blood cultured. We evaluated an automatic blood volume monitoring system, recently developed by Becton Dickinson within its BACTEC EpiCenter module, that calculates mean volumes of negative aerobic bottles and generates boxplots and histograms. First, we evaluated the filling degree of 339 aerobic glass blood cultures by calculating the weight-based volume for each bottle. A substantial amount of the bottles (48.3%) were inadequately filled. Evaluation of the accuracy of the monitoring system showed a mean bias of -1.4 mL (-15.4%). Additional evaluation, using the amended software on 287 aerobic blood culture bottles, resulted in an acceptable mean deviation of -0.3 mL (-3.3%). The new software version was also tested on 200 of the recently introduced plastic bottles, which will replace the glass bottles in the near future, showing a mean deviation of +2.8 mL (+26.7%). In conclusion, the mean calculated volumes can be used for the training of a single phlebotomist. However, filling problems appear to be masked when using them for phlebotomist groups or on wards. Here, visual interpretation of boxplots and histograms can serve as a useful tool to observe the spread of the filling degrees and to develop a continuous improvement program. Re-adjustment of the software has proven to be necessary for use with plastic bottles. Due to our findings, BD has developed further adjustments to the software for validated use with plastic bottles, which will be released soon.

Sistema automatizado de tratamiento de datos hidroquímicos para el chequeo de la calidad de las aguas

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Reguera, E.

1990-12-01

Full Text Available The objective of this work is to ilustrate the use of the SAMA automatic system (Water Monitoring Automatic System to aid the water chemical composition control. This system is based in the determination of mathematical relationships between ionic concentration and electric conductivity. The system was developped in Turbo Pascal for IBM compatible microcomputer. The example of application that is presented in this paper correspond with waters from coastal karstic aquifer affected by marine intrusion. This waters are used for citric irrigation.El objetivo de este trabajo es ilustrar el uso del sistema de programas «SAMA» (Sistema Automatizado para el Monitoreo de las Aguas para la ayuda en el control de la composición química de la aguas. El mismo se basa en la determinación de ecuaciones de dependencia matemática entre la concentración iónica y la conductividad eléctrica. Ha sido implementado en lenguaje Turbo Pascal para microcomputadoras IBM compatibles. El ejemplo de aplicación que se presenta corresponde a aguas de un acuífera kárstico litoral afectado por la intrusión marina las cuales se usan en el regadío de cítricos.

Sistema automatizado para la realización de pruebas funcionales a las protecciones electrónicas CELCOR

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Rodolfo García Bermúdez

2006-01-01

Full Text Available Se realiza el diseño e implementación de un sistema automatizado que permite hacer las pruebas funcionales a las protecciones electrónicas por sobrecorriente para equipos de refrigeración producidas en el Laboratorio Científico Productivo perteneciente a la Universidad de Holguín "Oscar Lucero Moya". Para ello se realizó un estudio de las especificaciones funcionales que reclama el fabricante de las protecciones, que hizo posible definir un grupo de pruebas que verifican dichas especificaciones, se emplean módulos de adquisición de datos conectados por medio de una interfaz RS485 a la computadora y se hizo el diseño de la electrónica necesaria para la adaptación de las señales a estos módulos. El sistema informático permite realizar las pruebas a seis protecciones al mismo tiempo, cuyos resultados son almacenados en una base de datos. Adicionalmente puede realizarse la caracterización de los transformadores de corriente utilizados como sensores en las protecciones. El sistema realiza un grupo de pruebas que son imposibles de forma manual, eleva la productividad de los técnicos, disminuye los costos asociados al consumo de electricidad y permite que al 100% de las protecciones que salen al mercado se le verifiquen todas sus especificaciones funcionales.

Eficácia do sistema de contenção (automatizado e mecânico no atordoamento de bovinos Effectiveness of the restraining system (automated and mechanical in the cattle stunning

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William Bertoloni

2010-08-01

Full Text Available Um total de 800 bovinos machos (nelore/anelorados, com idade entre 28 e 36 meses, foi atordoado com pistola pneumática, com pressão de operação de 11 a 12bar e haste de penetração de 15.9mm de diâmetro, em sistemas de contenção diferentes (mecânico e atomatizado. O box de contenção mecânico tradicional (2,53x0,88x2,20m não permitiu a contenção da cabeça do animal; no segundo tratamento utilizou-se box de contenção automatizado (2,60x0,85x2,30m, com parede lateral e piso móveis, guilhotina e elevador de cabeça. O box automatizado proporcionou menor número de disparos necessários para o atordoamento (1,0625±0,013 em comparação ao mecânico(1,2025±0,026, (P≤0,0001, reduziu a distância em relação ao ponto ideal no primeiro disparo (1,246±0,918 e 2,357±1,246 e no segundo (3,042±0,141 e 4,016±0,101, (P 0,0001, assim como proporcionou ausência de reflexo respiratório comparativamente ao sistema mecânico (0,0275±0,008, (P≤0,001. O box automatizado apresentou maior bem-estar e maior eficácia na contenção e insensibilização dos bovinosA total of 800 male cattle (Nelore, aged 28-36 months, stunned by pneumatic captive bolt pistol (operating pressure 160-175psi 11-12bar , air consumption (per cycle 1.45ft³ 41L , penetrating shaft diameter 0.625 in 15.9mm in different restrainer systems (mechanical and automated. The traditional mechanical restraint (2.53x0.88x2.20m did not allow the containment of the animal's head, the automated restrainer (2.60x0.85x2.30m allowed adjustable sidewall and restraint and elevating the head. The automatic restrainer provided smaller number of shots required for stunning (1.0625±0.013 compared to mechanical (1.2025±0.026 (P≤0.0001, reduced the distance from the ideal point in the first shot (1.246±0.918 and (2.357±1.246 and second (3.042±0.141 and (4.016±0.101 (P 0.0001, and provided no respiratory reflex compared to the mechanical system (0.0275±0.008, (P≤0.001. The

Diseno e Implementación de un Sistema Automatizado para Control Remoto de Iluminación en Conformidad de la Tecnología INSTEON y Optimización del Sistema de Seguridad CCTV en el Edificio GIMPROMED

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Ronald Moreno

2012-11-01

Full Text Available El presente documento describe la implementación de un sistema automatizado y la optimización del sistema de seguridad CCTV (circuito cerrado de televisión para el edificio GIMPROMED. El sistema estará basado en la tecnología INSTEON y se orientara principalmente al control remoto de iluminación, y del equipo de climatización (aire acondicionado. La monitorización, supervisión y control del sistema se realizará a través de un software propietario desarrollado en lenguaje de programación de alto nivel JAVA, con un diseño personalizado y en base a los requerimientos del usuario. Los dispositivos del sistema automatizado serán seleccionados tomando en cuenta los tipos de cargas a controlar, el espacio físico disponible y la distribución de circuitos eléctricos. La optimización del circuito cerrado de televisión traerá consigo la implementación de un sistema flexible que permite integrar los dispositivos analógicos con las nuevas tecnologías existentes a fin de ofrecer una solución eficiente, robusta y flexible. En suma, este sistema, coadyuvará al desarrollo integral de la empresa, y proporcionara un ambiente productivo y eficiente a través de la automatización con el fin de brindar seguridad y respaldo a las personas que trabajan en ella.

The diagnostic performance of a single GeneXpert MTB/RIF assay in an intensified tuberculosis case finding survey among HIV-infected prisoners in Malaysia.

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Haider Abdulrazzaq Abed Al-Darraji

Full Text Available Delays in tuberculosis (TB diagnosis, particularly in prisons, is associated with detrimental outcomes. The new GeneXpert MTB/RIF assay (Xpert offers accurate and rapid diagnosis of active TB, but its performance in improving case detection in high-transmission congregate settings has yet to be evaluated. We assessed the diagnostic accuracy of a single Xpert assay in an intensified case finding survey among HIV-infected prisoners in Malaysia.HIV-infected prisoners at a single site provided two early-morning sputum specimens to be examined using fluorescence smear microscopy, BACTEC MGIT 960 liquid culture and a single Xpert. The sensitivity, specificity, negative and positive predictive values of Xpert were calculated relative to gold-standard results using MGIT 960 liquid culture. Relevant clinical and demographic data were used to examine correlates of active TB disease.The majority of enrolled subjects with complete data (N=125 were men (90.4%, age <40 years (61.6% and had injected drugs (75.2%. Median CD4 lymphocyte count was 337 cells/µL (IQR 149-492; only 19 (15.2% were receiving antiretroviral therapy. Of 15 culture-positive TB cases, single Xpert assay accurately detected only eight previously undiagnosed TB cases, resulting in a sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value of 53.3% (95% CI 30.12-75.2%, 100% (95% CI 96.6-100%, 100% (95% CI 67.56-100% and 94.0% (95% CI 88.2-97.1%, respectively. Only 1 of 15 (6.7% active TB cases was smear-positive. The prevalence (12% of undiagnosed active pulmonary TB (15 of 125 prisoners was high and associated with longer duration of drug use (AOR 1.14, 95% CI 1.03-1.26, for each year of drug use.Single Xpert assay improved TB case detection and outperformed AFB smear microscopy, but yielded low screening sensitivity. Further examination of the impact of HIV infection on the diagnostic performance of the new assay alongside other screening methods in correctional

Prevalence and molecular characterization of pyrazinamide resistance among multidrug-resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis isolates from Southern China.

Science.gov (United States)

Pang, Yu; Zhu, Damian; Zheng, Huiwen; Shen, Jing; Hu, Yan; Liu, Jie; Zhao, Yanlin

2017-11-06

Pyrazinamide (PZA) plays a unique role in the treatment for multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) in both first- and second-line regimens. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence and molecular characterization of PZA resistance among MDR-TB isolates collected in Chongqing municipality. A total of 133 MDR-TB isolates were collected from the smear-positive tuberculosis patients who were registered at local TB dispensaries of Chongqing. PZA susceptibility testing was determined with a Bactec MGIT 960 system. In addition, the genes conferring for PZA resistance were screened by DNA sequencing. Of these 133 MDR-TB isolates, 83 (62.4%) were determined as PZA-resistant by MGIT 960. In addition, streptomycin- (83.1% vs. 56.0%, P < 0.01), ofloxacin- (51.8% vs. 18.0%, P < 0.01), kanamycin- (22.9% vs. 2.0%, P < 0.01), amikacin- (18.1% vs. 2.0%, P = 0.01), capromycin-resistance (12.0% vs. 2.0%, P = 0.05), were more frequently observed among PZA-resistant isolates compared with PZA-susceptible isolates. Sequence analysis revealed that 73 out of 83 (88.0%) MDR strains harbored a mutation located in the pncA gene, including 55 (75.3%, 55/73) of single nucleotide substitutions and 18 (24.7%, 18/73) of frameshift mutation, while no genetic mutation associated with PZA resistance was found in the rpsA gene. The pncA expression of strains harboring substitution from A to G at position -11 in the promoter region of pncA was significantly lower than that of H37Rv (P < 0.01). In conclusion, our data have demonstrated that the analysis of the pncA gene rather than rpsA gene provides rapid and accurate information regarding PZA susceptibility for MDR-TB isolates in Chongqing. In addition, loss of pncA expression caused by promoter mutation confers PZA resistance in MDR-TB isolates.

Acridine orange staining and radiometric detection of microorganisms in blood cultures

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Burdash, N.M.; Manos, J.P.; Bannister, E.R.; Welborn, A.L.

1983-01-01

To determine whether acridine orange (AO) staining of blood cultures could be used as a substitute for blind subculture when used in conjunction with the BACTEC system (Johnston Laboratories, Inc., Towson, Md.), the two methods were compared on all BACTEC-negative specimens. Since blind subcultures were routinely performed in our laboratory on days 2 and 6 of incubation, AO staining was also performed on these days. Cultures which were BACTEC positive on day 1 of incubation were not included in the study. Of the 2,395 bottles tested after 2 days of incubation, 106 were subculture positive. Of these, 96 (90.6%) were also AO positive and BACTEC positive, 3 (2.8%) were AO positive and BACTEC negative, and 7 (6.6%) were AO negative and BACTEC positive. Of the 3,487 bottles tested on day 6 of incubation, 14 were subculture positive; 7 (50%) of these were AO positive and BACTEC positive, and seven were AO positive and BACTEC negative. Of the total of 10 culture-positive bottles missed by BACTEC, all were positive, and all 10 companion aerobic bottles were BACTEC positive. In both phases of the experiment, there was a total of only four false-positive AO stains. As a result of this investigation, we have substituted AO staining for blind subculturing of BACTEC-negative bottles

Evaluation of whole blood IFNgamma test using PPD and recombinant antigen challenge for diagnosis of pulmonary and extra-pulmonary tuberculosis.

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Kalantri, Yatiraj; Hemvani, Nanda; Chitnis, D S

2009-06-01

Quantiferon TB gold (QFT-G) with recombinant antigen cocktail is well evaluated for diagnosis of pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB). However, diagnosis of extra-pulmonary tuberculosis (EPTB) is more difficult due to limitations of conventional techniques. This study compares recombinant antigens based QFT-G and low cost PPD based interferon test for the diagnosis of PTB and EPTB. IFNgamma release, with recombinant antigens and PPD, was assayed by ELISA from 140 cases of EPTB, 100 cases of PTB along with acid fast bacillus (AFB) detection, AFB culture on LJ and MGIT BACTEC. Sensitivity and specificity for QFT-G recombinant antigens was 84.29% and 96%, while for PPD based interferon was 70% and 84% for EPTB group. The sensitivity was far superior to AFB smear and culture for both the antigens. Nine samples were identified as non-tubercular mycobacteria (NTM) in the EPTB group and all were negative for QFT-G, but six of them were positive for PPD based test. Results of the study show that QFT-G using recombinant antigen is sensitive and specific for both PTB and EPTB diagnosis. The PPD based test is economic and offers comparable performance for PTB and EPTB diagnosis and also useful for diagnosis of NTM.

A novel automatic molecular test for detection of multidrug resistance tuberculosis in sputum specimen: A case control study.

Science.gov (United States)

Li, Qiang; Ou, Xi C; Pang, Yu; Xia, Hui; Huang, Hai R; Zhao, Bing; Wang, Sheng F; Zhao, Yan L

2017-07-01

MiniLab tuberculosis (ML TB) assay is a new automatic diagnostic tool for diagnosis of multidrug resistance tuberculosis (MDR-TB). This study was conducted with aims to know the performance of this assay. Sputum sample from 224 TB suspects was collected from tuberculosis suspects seeking medical care at Beijing Chest hospital. The sputum samples were directly used for smear and ML TB test. The left sputum sample was used to conduct Xpert MTB/RIF, Bactec MGIT culture and drug susceptibility test (DST). All discrepancies between the results from DST, molecular and phenotypic methods were confirmed by DNA Sequencing. The sensitivity and specificity of ML TB test for detecting MTBC from TB suspects were 95.1% and 88.9%, respectively. The sensitivity for smear negative TB suspects was 64.3%. For detection of RIF resistance, the sensitivity and specificity of ML TB test were 89.2% and 95.7%, respectively. For detection of INH resistance, the sensitivity and specificity of ML TB test were 78.3% and 98.1%, respectively. ML TB test showed similar performance to Xpert MTB/RIF for detection of MTBC and RIF resistance. In addition, ML TB also had good performance for INH resistance detection. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

JORNALISMO AUTOMATIZADO, GERAÇÃO DE LINGUAGEM NATURAL E A LÓGICA DO BOM SUFICIENTE

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Krishma Carreira

2017-05-01

Full Text Available A explosão de dados digitais e o avanço do campo da Inteligência Artificial permitiram o surgimento de algoritmos capazes de redigir e distribuir automaticamente notícias jornalísticas com rapidez e de forma customizada. A automatizacão da produção de narrativas entrega textos básicos, objetivos e sem sofisticação, formatando a função de jornalistas e contribui para a ampliação da chamada "bolha de filtros" definida por Eli Pariser.  Neste texto, procuramos demonstrar que ao adotar a automação, redações nos Estados Unidos, Europa e China passaram a usar a lógica do bom suficiente, demonstrada por Robert Capps. Ou seja, a automatização da elaboração de notícias pode estar sendo adotada unicamente por seu caráter "industrial" e pelo custo radicalmente reduzido, não priorizando a diversificação, a cultura e a qualidade humana dos relatos. As reflexões centram-se em pesquisa bibliográfica de caráter exploratório e interdisciplinar, a partir da abordagem da Teoria Ator-Rede.   PALAVRAS-CHAVE: Jornalismo automatizado; robôs e jornalismo; algoritmo jornalista; futuro do jornalismo.     ABSTRACT The explosion of digital data and the advance of the field of Artificial Intelligence allowed the emergence of algorithms capable of automatically writing and distributing news stories quickly and in a customized way. The automation of narrative production delivers basic, objective and unsophisticated texts, shaping the role of journalists and contributes to the expansion of the so-called "filter bubble" defined by Eli Pariser. In this text, we try to demonstrate that in adopting automation, essays in the United States, Europe and China have come to use the logic of good enough, demonstrated by Robert Capps. That is to say, the automation of the elaboration of news can be adopted solely by its "industrial" character and by the radically reduced cost, not prioritizing the diversification, the culture and the human quality of

STUDI PEMETAAN AWAL DNA Mycobacterium tuberculosis COMPLEX SECARA Spoligotyping PADA HASIL ISOLASI DAHAK PASIEN TUBERKULOSIS PARU DARI 10 IBU KOTA PROPINSI (BAGIAN I

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Vivi Lisdawati

2012-08-01

Full Text Available Abstract. Mapping TB genotype of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb is an important study to identify their distribution or characteristic and also may lead to improve control of the disease. This study conducted a preliminary mapping of the tubercle bacilli which had been circulating in Indonesia. Cultures of DNA isolated from TB patients at urban areas in 16 provinces in Indonesia, are chosen based on TB Case Detection Rate (CDR 2006 from Indonesia Directorate General of Communicable Disease Control and Environment Health (Ministry of Health, were analyzed by spoligotyping for strain differentiation. In this first part, the analyzed result only came from urban areas in 10 provinces, i.e. Palembang, Bandar Lampung, Serang, Jakarta, Bandung, Surabaya, Banjarmasin, Makassar, Pontianak and Ambon. Sample were 269 DNA from 294 isolates collected from sputum of suspect TB patients with sputum-smear positive (SS+ and age above 15 years old. All samples were obtained from peripheral health laboratory in each province. The procedure collection is accordance to Indonesia DOTs guidelines (AFB smears and samples were transported from those 10 areas to Bacteriology Laboratory at CBPRD. Sputum was taken for culture in liquid media MGIT Bactec 960 and solid media Lowenstein Jensen. The DNAs from positive liquid media MGIT Bactec 960 were isolated and analyzed by spoligotyping to identify the spoligo pattern. The spoligotyping results converted into octal format within Words & Excel spreadsheets and compared to International Spoligotype-database (SpolDB4. The previous study (Parwati et.al. found some differences geographical distribution between Beijing genotype strain of tubercle bacilli in West Indonesia compare to East Indonesia, and the same pattern was also found in this study. Furthermore, the results in this study showed the differences in spoligo pattern of Mtb complex at 10 urban areas in West, Middle and East Indonesia. The percentage of Beijing strain

In Vitro Evaluation of Linezolid and Meropenem Against Clinical Isolates of Multi Drug Resistant Tuberculosis By Mycobacterial Growth Indicator Tube (MGIT) 960

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Mirza, I. A.; Satti, L.; Khan, F. A.; Khan, K. A.

2015-01-01

Objective: To evaluate the in vitro effectiveness of multiple breakpoint concentrations of newer antituberculosis agents (Linezolid and Meropenem) against Multi Drug-Resistant Tuberculosis (MDR-TB) isolates. Study Design: Adescriptive cross-sectional study. Place and Duration of Study: Microbiology Department, Armed Forces Institute of Pathology (AFIP), Rawalpindi, from September 2011 to August 2013. Methodology: Atotal of 100 MDR-TB isolates recovered during the study period were subjected to susceptibility testing against multiple breakpoint concentrations of Linezolid (LZD) and Meropenem (MER). The breakpoint concentration used for LZD were 0.5, 1.0 and 2.0 micro g/ml, while for MER were 4.0, 8.0 and 16 micro g/ml. Mycobacterial Growth Indicator Tube (MGIT) 960 system was used to carry out drug susceptibility testing as per recommended protocol. Results: At break point concentration of 0.5 micro g/ml, 80 out of 100 (80%) MDR-TB isolates were susceptible to LZD while at breakpoint concentration of 1.0 micro g/ml and 2.0 micro g/ml, 96/100, (96%) of MDR-TB isolates were susceptible. For MER, at breakpoint concentrations of 4.0 micro g/ml no MDR-TB isolate was susceptible, while at 8.0 micro g/ml 3/100, (3%) and at 16.0 micro g/ml 11/100, (11%) of MDR-TB isolates were susceptible. Conclusion: LZD was found to have excellent in vitroefficacy as 96% of MDR-TB isolates were susceptible at breakpoint concentration of 1.0 micro g/ml or more. In case of MER it was found that in vitrosusceptibility improved as the break point concentrations were increased. (author)

Comparison of manual mycobacteria growth indicator tube and epsilometer test with agar proportion method for susceptibility testing of Mycobacterium tuberculosis

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N Karabulut

2014-01-01

Full Text Available Background and Objectives: Antimycobacterial susceptibility tests take weeks, and delayed therapy can lead to spread of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Therefore, rapid, accurate and cost-effective methods are required for proper therapy selection. In this study, the Mycobacteria growth indicator tube (MGIT and epsilometer test (Etest methods were compared to the agar proportion method for susceptibility testing of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Materials and Methods: The susceptibility tests against isoniazid (INH, rifampin (RIF, streptomycin (STM and ethambutol (ETM of 51 M. tuberculosis complex isolates were analyzed by the MGIT, Etest and agar proportion methods. Results: The concordance between MGIT/Etest and agar proportion methods was 98% for INH and 100% for RIF, STM, ETM. There were not statistically significant differences in results of the susceptibility tests between MGIT/Etest and the reference agar proportion method. Conclusion: The results have shown that MGIT and Etest methods can be used instead of the agar proportion method, because these two methods are more rapid and easier than the agar proportion method.

Avaliação de um sistema automatizado na identificação de espécies de Enterococcus Evaluation of an automated system for the identification of Enterococci

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Pedro Alves d'Azevedo

2004-08-01

Full Text Available O uso de métodos automatizados tem freqüentemente levado a falhas na identificação do gênero Enterococcus em laboratórios de microbiologia clínica. Neste estudo foi avaliada a utilização de um sistema automatizado Vitek (bioMérieux em dois laboratórios de microbiologia clínica para identificação de diferentes espécies de enterococos. Os resultados foram comparados com os testes fisiológicos convencionais. As amostras (80 foram inoculadas em testes bioquímicos convencionais e no cartão Vitek GPI. No geral, a concordância entre os dois métodos foi de 83,7% (67/80. Entre as amostras de E. faecalis, o sistema Vitek identificou corretamente 35/40 (87,5% e entre os E. faecium, a concordância foi 12/14 (85,7%. Em 20/26 amostras (76,9% pertencentes a espécies não-E. faecalis e não-E. faecium, o sistema chegou à identificação correta. Os resultados do presente estudo mostram que o sistema Vitek necessita de melhorias para a identificação de enterococos, especialmente diante de espécies menos freqüentes.Automated systems may present problems in the identification of members of the genus Enterococcus in clinical laboratories. Having conventional physiological tests as the reference method, we evaluated the use of an automated system (VITEK - bioMérieux in the identification of 80 isolates belonging to different species of Enterococcus. The general agreement between results obtained by the conventional method and by the Vitek GPI card was 83.7% (67/80. Among isolates of E. faecalis and E faecium we observed that the automated system correctly identified 35/40 (87.5% and 12/14 (85.7% of the strains, respectively. Among isolates belonging to species which are neither E. faecalis, nor E. faecium, it was observed an agreement of 20/26 (76.9%. Results point to the need of improvement in the automated systems to identify enterococci. Special consideration must be taken regarding less frequently isolated species.

Anti-mycobacterium tuberculosis activity of polyherbal medicines used for the treatment of tuberculosis in Eastern Cape, South Africa.

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Famewo, Elizabeth B; Clarke, Anna M; Wiid, Ian; Ngwane, Andile; van Helden, Paul; Afolayan, Anthony J

2017-09-01

The emergence of drug-resistant strains of Mycobacterium tuberculosis has become a global public health problem. Polyherbal medicines offer great hope for developing alternative drugs for the treatment of tuberculosis. To evaluate the anti-tubercular activity of polyherbal medicines used for the treatment of tuberculosis. The remedies were screened against Mycobacterium tuberculosis H37Rv using Middlebrook 7H9 media and MGIT BACTEC 960 system. They were liquid preparations from King Williams Town site A (KWTa), King Williams Town site B (KWTb), King Williams Town site C (KWTc), Hogsback first site (HBfs), Hogsback second site (HBss), Hogsback third site (HBts), East London (EL), Alice (AL) and Fort Beaufort (FB). The susceptibility testing revealed that all the remedies contain anti-tubercular activity with KWTa, KWTb, KWTc, HBfs, HBts, AL and FB exhibiting more activity at a concentration below 25 µl/ml. Furthermore, MIC values exhibited inhibitory activity with the most active remedies from KWTa, HBfs and HBts at 1.562 µg/ml. However, isoniazid showed more inhibitory activity against M. tuberculosis at 0.05 µg/ml when compare to the polyherbal remedies. This study has indicated that these remedies could be potential sources of new anti-mycobacterial agents against M. tuberculosis . However, the activity of these preparations and their active principles still require in vivo study in order to assess their future as new anti-tuberculosis agents.

A simple automated procedure for thiol measurement in human serum samples Procedimento automatizado simples para determinação de tióis em amostras de soro humano

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Carolina M. da Costa

2006-10-01

Full Text Available Thiol groups have been described as the main responsible for antioxidative effects of plasmatic proteins. Also, thiol serum levels have shown a positive correlation with total antioxidant capacity (TAC in many studies. Measurement of TAC by substract oxidation-based methods have been widely used as a reference to measure antioxidant status; however, in many cases these methods are inexact or imprecise, usually when performed by manual procedures. In this paper we describe a simple automated procedure for the determination of total thiols in serum, which was based on Ellman’s method. It was correlated with several markers of oxidative/antioxidative status, such as TAC and thiobarbituric acid reactive substance test (TBARs. Serum thiol levels were correlated positively with TAC (r = 0.298, p Os tióis são descritos como os principais responsáveis pelos efeitos antioxidantes das proteínas plasmáticas. Além disso, diversos estudos mostram uma correlação positiva entre os níveis séricos de tióis e a capacidade antioxidante total (CAT. A medida da CAT por métodos baseados na oxidação de substratos tem sido amplamente usada como referência na estimativa da capacidade antioxidante em amostras biológicas; porém, em muitos casos esses métodos são inexatos e imprecisos, principalmente quando realizados por procedimentos não-automatizados. Neste artigo descrevemos um procedimento automatizado simples para a determinação de tióis totais no soro, com base no conhecido método de Ellman. A dosagem dos tióis foi correlacionada com diversos marcadores da capacidade oxidante/antioxidante, como a CAT, o teste das substâncias reativas ao ácido tiobarbitúrico (TBARs e os níveis de peróxidos totais. Os tióis correlacionaram-se positivamente com a CAT (r = 0,298; p < 0,001 e negativamente com os níveis de TBARs (r = - 0,330; p < 0,001. O procedimento aqui descrito para a dosagem de tióis pode ser uma ferramenta importante na medida da

Comparison of the clinical and microbiological characteristics of Campylobacter and Helicobacter bacteremia: the importance of time to blood culture positivity using the BACTEC blood culture systems.

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Yamamoto, Kei; Hayakawa, Kayoko; Nagashima, Maki; Shimada, Kayo; Kutsuna, Satoshi; Takeshita, Nozomi; Kato, Yasuyuki; Kanagawa, Shuzo; Yamada, Koji; Mezaki, Kazuhisa; Kirikae, Teruo; Ohmagari, Norio

2017-11-28

Campylobacter spp. and Helicobacter spp. are rare but important causes of bacteremia in humans. Distinguishing these bacteria is complicated because of their similar phenotypic profiles. We conducted clinical and microbiological investigations of Campylobacter spp. or Helicobacter spp. bacteremia. Patients diagnosed with bacteremia from 2008 to 2014 were included. The clinical and microbiological characteristics of Campylobacter spp. and Helicobacter spp. bacteremia were compared. The BACTEC system was used in blood cultures. A receiver operating characteristic curve was plotted based on the time to blood culture positivity. Sixteen cases of Helicobacter spp. bacteremia (patient age: 61 ± 18 years) and 14 cases of Campylobacter spp. bacteremia (patient age: 49 ± 21 years) were identified. Median time to blood culture positivity was longer for the Helicobacter spp. cases than the Campylobacter spp. cases (91.4 h vs 55.3 h, p culture positivity > 75 h predicted Helicobacter spp. bacteremia with a sensitivity of 0.88 and a specificity of 0.93 (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.90). In conclusion, a time to blood culture positivity was useful in distinguishing Helicobacter spp. bacteremia from Campylobacter spp. bacteremia.

Evaluation of the HB&L System for the Microbiological Screening of Storage Medium for Organ-Cultured Corneas.

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Camposampiero, D; Grandesso, S; Zanetti, E; Mazzucato, S; Solinas, M; Parekh, M; Frigo, A C; Gion, M; Ponzin, D

2013-01-01

Aims. To compare HB&L and BACTEC systems for detecting the microorganisms contaminating the corneal storage liquid preserved at 31°C. Methods. Human donor corneas were stored at 4°C followed by preservation at 31°C. Samples of the storage medium were inoculated in BACTEC Peds Plus/F (aerobic microorganisms), BACTEC Plus Anaerobic/F (anaerobic microorganisms), and HB&L bottles. The tests were performed (a) after six days of storage, (b) end of storage, and (c) after 24 hours of preservation in deturgescent liquid sequentially. 10,655 storage and deturgescent media samples were subjected to microbiological control using BACTEC (6-day incubation) and HB&L (24-hour incubation) systems simultaneously. BACTEC positive/negative refers to both/either aerobic and anaerobic positives/negatives, whereas HB&L can only detect the aerobic microbes, and therefore the positives/negatives depend on the presence/absence of aerobic microorganisms. Results. 147 (1.38%) samples were identified positive with at least one of the two methods. 127 samples (134 identified microorganisms) were positive with both HB&L and BACTEC. 14 HB&L+/BACTEC- and 6 BACTEC+/HB&L- were identified. Sensitivity (95.5%), specificity (99.8%), and positive (90.1%) and negative predictive values (99.9%) were high with HB&L considering a 3.5% annual contamination rate. Conclusion. HB&L is a rapid system for detecting microorganisms in corneal storage medium in addition to the existing methods.

Liquid vs Solid Culture Medium to Evaluate Proportion and Time to Change in Management of Suspects of Tuberculosis-A Pragmatic Randomized Trial in Secondary and Tertiary Health Care Units in Brazil.

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Adriana da Silva Rezende Moreira

Full Text Available The use of liquid medium (MGIT960 for tuberculosis (TB diagnosis was recommended by WHO in 2007. However, there has been no evaluation of its effectiveness on clinically important outcomes.A pragmatic trial was carried out in a tertiary hospital and a secondary health care unit in Rio de Janeiro City, Brazil. Participants were 16 years or older, suspected of having TB. They were excluded if only cerebral spinal fluid or blood specimens were available for analysis. MGIT960 technique was compared with the Lowenstein-Jensen (LJ method for laboratory diagnosis of active TB. Primary outcome was the proportion of patients who had their initial medical management changed within 2 months after randomisation. Secondary outcomes were: mean time for changing the procedure, patient satisfaction with the overall treatment and adverse events. Data were analysed by intention-to-treat. Between April 2008 and September 2011, 693 patients were enrolled (348 to MGIT, 345 to LJ. Smear and culture results were positive for 10% and 15.7% of participants, respectively. Patients in the MGIT arm had their initial medical management changed more frequently than those in the LJ group (10.1% MGIT vs 3.8% LJ, RR 2.67 95% CI 1.44-.96, p = 0.002, NNT 16, 95% CI 10-39. Mean time for changing the initial procedure was greater in LJ group at both sites: 20.0 and 29.6 days in MGIT group and 52.2 and 64.3 in LJ group (MD 33.5, 95% CI 30.6-36.4, p = 0.0001. No other important differences were observed.This study suggests that opting for the MGIT960 system for TB diagnosis provides a promising case management model for improving the quality of care and control of TB.Controlled-Trials.com ISRCTN79888843.

Microscopic observation drug susceptibility assay (MODS for early diagnosis of tuberculosis in children.

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Dang Thi Minh Ha

2009-12-01

Full Text Available MODS is a novel liquid culture based technique that has been shown to be effective and rapid for early diagnosis of tuberculosis (TB. We evaluated the MODS assay for diagnosis of TB in children in Viet Nam. 217 consecutive samples including sputum (n = 132, gastric fluid (n = 50, CSF (n = 32 and pleural fluid (n = 3 collected from 96 children with suspected TB, were tested by smear, MODS and MGIT. When test results were aggregated by patient, the sensitivity and specificity of smear, MGIT and MODS against "clinical diagnosis" (confirmed and probable groups as the gold standard were 28.2% and 100%, 42.3% and 100%, 39.7% and 94.4%, respectively. The sensitivity of MGIT and MODS was not significantly different in this analysis (P = 0.5, but MGIT was more sensitive than MODS when analysed on the sample level using a marginal model (P = 0.03. The median time to detection of MODS and MGIT were 8 days and 13 days, respectively, and the time to detection was significantly shorter for MODS in samples where both tests were positive (P<0.001. An analysis of time-dependent sensitivity showed that the detection rates were significantly higher for MODS than for MGIT by day 7 or day 14 (P<0.001 and P = 0.04, respectively. MODS is a rapid and sensitive alternative method for the isolation of M.tuberculosis from children.

Investigation of OMNIgene·SPUTUM performance in delayed tuberculosis testing by smear, culture, and Xpert MTB/RIF assays in Uganda

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C.D. Kelly-Cirino

2017-06-01

Full Text Available OMNIgene·SPUTUM (OM-S is a sample transport reagent designed to work with all tuberculosis diagnostics while eliminating the need for cold chain. OM-S-treated sputum samples were assayed in several tests after multiday holds. Raw sputa from 100 patients underwent direct smear microscopy, were manually split and assigned to the OM-S group [OM-S added at collection (no other processing required and tested after 0- to 5-day holds at room temperature] or standard-of-care (SOC group (NaOH/N-acetyl l-cysteine decontamination, all tested on day of collection. Concentrated smear microscopy, Lowenstein Jensen (LJ culture, and mycobacteria growth indicator tube (MGIT culture were performed. For patients with negative direct smear, a second sample was split, with SOC (raw sputum and OM-S portions (sediment tested in the Xpert MTB/RIF (Xpert assay. OM-S group and SOC group results were strongly concordant on all four tests [range, 89% (MGIT–97% (Xpert]. OM-S MGIT, LJ, and Xpert tests were in statistical agreement with SOC MGIT as reference. OM-S specimens had lower culture contamination rates (3% vs. 10% LJ; 2% vs. 5% MGIT but required, on average, 5.6 additional days to become MGIT-positive. The findings suggest that samples held/transported in OM-S are compatible with smear microscopy, LJ or MGIT culture, and Xpert, and perform comparably to fresh sputum samples. Larger feasibility studies are warranted.

Sistema automatizado para el análisis de la situación de salud Automated system for analysis of health situation

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Agustín Paramio Rodríguez

2011-09-01

Full Text Available INTRODUCCIÓN: El análisis de la situación de salud es una práctica necesaria en la atención primaria de salud. Entre las principales dificultades para realizarlo se destaca la falta de habilidades por parte de los miembros del equipo básico de salud para el procesamiento de la información y por ende para la construcción de los indicadores necesarios, lo que resta calidad a los informes. OBJETIVOS: Proponer un sistema automatizado para la consolidación de la información estadística relacionada con el estado de salud de la población necesaria para la realización del análisis de la situación de salud. MÉTODOS: Se realizó una investigación de innovación tecnológica, que consistió en el diseño de un sistema automatizado para el procesamiento de la información estadística. Para esto se realizó una revisión de las guías existentes además de consultas a expertos. Se utilizaron las herramientas para tabulación de información y fórmulas que ofrece el programa Excel del paquete Microsoft Office 2007. RESULTADOS: Se propone el presente sistema cuya característica principal es la simplicidad de su uso. Este contribuye a organizar y facilitar el procesamiento de la información estadística tanto a nivel individual en el consultorio como a nivel del área de salud; permite ahorrar tiempo y recursos. CONCLUSIONES: Contribuye de manera efectiva a facilitar la tarea de nuestros profesionales en la tabulación y cálculo de los indicadores necesarios para la realización del análisis de la situación de salud del consultorio y del policlínico.INTRODUCTION: The analysis of health situation is a practice fundamental in the primary health care. Among the main difficulties to perform the analysis of health situation is the lack of abilities by health basic staff members for the information processing and therefore for the creation of necessary indicators playing down the quality of reports. OBJECTIVES: To propose an automated system

A comparison of liquid and solid culture for determining relapse and durable cure in phase III TB trials for new regimens.

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Phillips, Patrick P J; Mendel, Carl M; Nunn, Andrew J; McHugh, Timothy D; Crook, Angela M; Hunt, Robert; Bateson, Anna; Gillespie, Stephen H

2017-11-24

Tuberculosis kills more people than any other infectious disease, and new regimens are essential. The primary endpoint for confirmatory phase III trials for new regimens is a composite outcome that includes bacteriological treatment failure and relapse. Culture methodology is critical to the primary trial outcome. Patients in clinical trials can have positive cultures after treatment ends that may not necessarily indicate relapse, which was ascribed previously to laboratory cross-contamination or breakdown of old lesions. Löwenstein-Jensen (LJ) medium was the previous standard in clinical trials, but almost all current and future trials will use the Mycobacteria Growth Indicator Tube (MGIT) system due to its simplicity and consistency of use, which will affect phase III trial results. LJ was used for the definition of the primary endpoint in the REMoxTB trial, but every culture was also inoculated in parallel into the MGIT system. The data from this trial, therefore, provide a unique opportunity to investigate and compare the incidence of false 'isolated positives' in liquid and solid media and their potential impact on the primary efficacy results. All post-treatment positive cultures were reviewed in the REMoxTB clinical trial. Logistic regression models were used to model the incidence of isolated positive cultures on MGIT and LJ. A total of 12,209 sputum samples were available from 1652 patients; cultures were more often positive on MGIT than LJ. In 1322 patients with a favourable trial outcome, 126 (9.5%) had cultures that were positive in MGIT compared to 34 (2.6%) patients with positive cultures on LJ. Among patients with a favourable outcome, the incidence of isolated positives on MGIT differed by study laboratory (p cultures in some patients even after adjusting for laboratory, p cultures, positive MGIT cultures were more likely to be associated with higher grade TB symptoms reported within 7 days either side of sputum collection in patients with an

Evaluation of substrates for radiometric detection of bacteria in blood cultures

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Bopp, H.; Ellner, P.D.

1988-01-01

Various 14 C-labeled substrates were evaluated for their potential use in blood culture media. These uniformly labeled compounds were added to hypertonic and anaerobic formulations of modified Columbia broth and compared with analogous BACTEC media with the BACTEC 460. Different bacterial species gave significant growth indices when 2.0 microCi of labeled glucose, glutamic acid, aspartic acid, arginine, or formate was used alone or in combinations in the experimental media. The combination of glucose, glutamic acid, and sodium formate was selected, and simulated blood cultures with representative aerobic, facultative, and anaerobic bacteria and a yeast were compared with BACTEC vials. Under these conditions, the experimental media often became positive several hours earlier than the BACTEC vials and usually produced higher growth indices

Evaluation of a radiometric method for pyrazinamide susceptibility testing of Mycobacterium tuberculosis

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Tarrand, J.J.; Spicer, A.D.; Groeschel, D.H.

1986-01-01

Pyrazinamide susceptibility testing of Mycobacterium tuberculosis requires an acid environment. By controlling the method of acidification and the quality and quantity of the inoculum, the test can be performed with the BACTEC radiometric system (Johnston Laboratories, Towson, Md.). We acidified BACTEC 7H12 medium with buffered phosphoric acid and adjusted the test inoculum to 1/10 of that usually employed in BACTEC protocols; after 5 days of growth we correctly identified 36 of 36 strains susceptible to 50 micrograms of pyrazinamide per ml. All 18 resistant strains were classified as pyrazinamide resistant. (Susceptibility or resistance had been determined by standard plate assays.) The test was able to detect small resistant populations in artificial mixtures of 1 or 2% resistant bacteria with a susceptible strain (10 mixtures each). We tested 70 M. tuberculosis strains in acidified BACTEC 7H12 medium and by the plate dilution test at pH 5.5. All strains grew in the BACTEC medium, but three strains failed to grow on plates and were not tested further; the results of both methods agreed for the remaining strains

Evaluation of three gentamicin serum assay techniques

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Matzke, G.R.; Gwizdala, C.; Wery, J.; Ferry, D.; Starnes, R.

1982-01-01

This investigation was designed to compare the enzyme-modified immunoassay (Syva--EMIT) with a radioimmunoassay (New England Nuclear--RIA) and the radiometric assay (Johnston--BACTEC) to determine the optimal assay for use in our aminoglycoside dosing service. The serum concentration determinations obtained via the three assay methods were analyzed by linear regression analysis. Significant positive correlations were noted between the three assay techniques (p less than 0.005) during both sample collection phases. The coefficients of determination for EMIT vs BACTEC and RIA vs BACTEC were 0.73 and 0.83 during phase 1, respectively, and 0.65 and 0.68 during phase 2, respectively. The slope of the regression lines also varied markedly during the two phases; 0.49 and 0.42 for EMIT and for RIA vs BACTEC, respectively, during phase 1 compound with 1.12 and 0.77, respectively, during phase 2. The differences noted in these relationships during phase 1 and 2 may be related to the alteration of the pH of the control sera utilized in the BACTEC assay. In contrast, RIA vs EMIT regression analysis indicated that existence of a highly significant relationship (p less than 0.0005 and r2 . 0.90). The EMIT technique was the easiest and most accurate for determination of serum gentamicin concentrations, whereas the BACTEC method was judged unacceptable for clinical use

Wild-type MIC distributions for aminoglycoside and cyclic polypeptide antibiotics used for treatment of Mycobacterium tuberculosis infections.

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Juréen, P; Angeby, K; Sturegård, E; Chryssanthou, E; Giske, C G; Werngren, J; Nordvall, M; Johansson, A; Kahlmeter, G; Hoffner, S; Schön, T

2010-05-01

The aminoglycosides and cyclic polypeptides are essential drugs in the treatment of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis, underscoring the need for accurate and reproducible drug susceptibility testing (DST). The epidemiological cutoff value (ECOFF) separating wild-type susceptible strains from non-wild-type strains is an important but rarely used tool for indicating susceptibility breakpoints against Mycobacterium tuberculosis. In this study, we established wild-type MIC distributions on Middlebrook 7H10 medium for amikacin, kanamycin, streptomycin, capreomycin, and viomycin using 90 consecutive clinical isolates and 21 resistant strains. Overall, the MIC variation between and within runs did not exceed +/-1 MIC dilution step, and validation of MIC values in Bactec 960 MGIT demonstrated good agreement. Tentative ECOFFs defining the wild type were established for all investigated drugs, including amikacin and viomycin, which currently lack susceptibility breakpoints for 7H10. Five out of seven amikacin- and kanamycin-resistant isolates were classified as susceptible to capreomycin according to the current critical concentration (10 mg/liter) but were non-wild type according to the ECOFF (4 mg/liter), suggesting that the critical concentration may be too high. All amikacin- and kanamycin-resistant isolates were clearly below the ECOFF for viomycin, and two of them were below the ECOFF for streptomycin, indicating that these two drugs may be considered for treatment of amikacin-resistant strains. Pharmacodynamic indices (peak serum concentration [Cmax]/MIC) were more favorable for amikacin and viomycin compared to kanamycin and capreomycin. In conclusion, our data emphasize the importance of establishing wild-type MIC distributions for improving the quality of drug susceptibility testing against Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

Performance comparison between the mycobacteria growth indicator tube system and Löwenstein-Jensen medium in the routine detection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis at public health care facilities in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: preliminary results of a pragmatic clinical trial.

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Moreira, Adriana da Silva Rezende; Huf, Gisele; Vieira, Maria Armanda; Fonseca, Leila; Ricks, Monica; Kritski, Afrânio Lineu

2013-01-01

In view of the fact that the World Health Organization has recommended the use of the mycobacteria growth indicator tube (MGIT) 960 system for the diagnosis of tuberculosis and that there is as yet no evidence regarding the clinical impact of its use in health care systems, we conducted a pragmatic clinical trial to evaluate the clinical performance and cost-effectiveness of the use of MGIT 960 at two health care facilities in the city of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, where the incidence of tuberculosis is high. Here, we summarize the methodology and preliminary results of the trial. (ISRCTN.org Identifier: ISRCTN79888843 [http://isrctn.org/]) In view of the fact that the World Health Organization has recommended the use of the mycobacteria growth indicator tube (MGIT) 960 system for the diagnosis of tuberculosis and that there is as yet no evidence regarding the clinical impact of its use in health care systems, we conducted a pragmatic clinical trial to evaluate the clinical performance and cost-effectiveness of the use of MGIT 960 at two health care facilities in the city of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, where the incidence of tuberculosis is high. Here, we summarize the methodology and preliminary results of the trial. (ISRCTN.org Identifier: ISRCTN79888843 [http://isrctn.org/]).

Efecto de la aplicación de un sistema automatizado de proyección de preíndices para la mejora de la capacidad de anticipación en jugadoras de voleibol

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Elena Hern\\u00E1ndez

2011-01-01

Full Text Available El propósito del estudio fue conocer la efectividad del sistema presentado, y comprobar si el entrenamiento aplicado contribuye a la mejora de la capacidad de anticipación en ocho jugadoras de voleibol. Se llevó a cabo un diseño cuasi-experimental intragrupo con un pre-test, dos semanas de tratamiento, un post-test y un re-test. La variable independiente consistió en la aplicación de un entrenamiento basado en el aporte de información inicial en forma de preíndices de la colocadora oponente. La variable dependiente consistió en el registro del tiempo de respuesta de las participantes en una situación de elección en bloqueo. Los resultados muestran que bajo las condiciones experimentales utilizadas, todas las jugadoras participantes mejoraron los tiempos de respuesta a partir del inicio del tratamiento, con un alto porcentaje de efectividad de la tasa total de aciertos. Las jugadoras anticiparon mejor los tiempos de ataque colocados por detrás de la colocadora. Los resultados mostrados permiten considerar el sistema automatizado descrito como una herramienta útil en la investigación de situaciones deportivas.

The development of gender identity in the autistic child.

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Abelson, A G

1981-01-01

The Michigan Gender Identity Test (MGIT) was administered to 30 autistic children to determine whether autistic children could demonstrate a sense of gender identity. The results of the MGIT were correlated with other developmental indices obtained from the Alpern-Boll Developmental Profile. From this sample of autistics, a significant relationship was found between gender identity and mental age, chronological age, communication skills, physical skills, social skills, self-help skills and academic (cognitive skills.

Migración de sistemas automatizados: política y gestión del cambio en bibliotecas

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Ballester, Josefina

1995-09-01

Full Text Available In order to survive, libraries must be able to adapt -flexibly, efficiently and responsively- to user needs. New technological developments serve to help libraries adjust to their new challenges and this is one of the reasons that leads them to migrate from one automated system to another. Implementing a new system is a complex process, owing to the new features being introduced and to the need to migrate data from the first system. This article analyzes why, how and when systems are changed, and includes guidelines for managing the transition: objectives, needs analyses, elaboration of technical specifications, and evaluation. Once the new system is chosen, the management of change begins and involves both the library management and library staff. Finally, the importance of staff participation in the entire process is discussed, including training and channels of communication.

Las bibliotecas, para poder sobrevivir, han de adaptarse a las demandas de los usuarios, de una manera más flexible, sensible y eficaz. Los nuevos desarrollos tecnológicos ayudan a la biblioteca a adecuarse a sus nuevas necesidades, y es por ello por lo que más frecuentemente se produce el cambio de un sistema automatizado a otro. La implementación de un segundo sistema es un proceso más complejo, debido a las nuevas prestaciones que se incorporan y al tener que migrar los datos ya existentes en el primer sistema. En este artículo se analiza el por qué, el cómo y el cuándo del cambio de sistema, así como las líneas de actuación previas que se han de seguir antes de iniciar el cambio: objetivos, análisis de necesidades, definición de especificaciones técnicas y evaluación. Una vez elegido el producto, se inicia la gestión del cambio que involucra tanto a la dirección para que lo controle, como al personal que actúa como agente del cambio. Por último, se analiza el papel tan importante que juega, en el éxito del nuevo sistema, la participaci

Nontuberculous mycobacterial species and Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex coinfection in patients with pulmonary tuberculosis in Dr. Soetomo Hospital, Surabaya, Indonesia

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Ni Made Mertaniasih

2017-01-01

Full Text Available Objective/Background: The aim of this study was to analyze the detection of nontuberculous mycobacterial (NTM species derived from sputum specimens of pulmonary tuberculosis (TB suspects. Increasing prevalence and incidence of pulmonary infection by NTM species have widely been reported in several countries with geographical variation. Materials and Methods: Between January 2014 and September 2015, sputum specimens from chronic pulmonary TB suspect patients were analyzed. Laboratory examination of mycobacteria was conducted in the TB laboratory, Department of Clinical Microbiology, Dr. Soetomo Hospital, Surabaya. Detection and identification of mycobacteria were performed by the standard culture method using the BACTEC MGIT 960 system (BD and Lowenstein–Jensen medium. Identification of positive Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC was based on positive acid-fast bacilli microscopic smear, positive niacin accumulation, and positive TB Ag MPT 64 test results (SD Bioline. If the growth of positive cultures and acid-fast bacilli microscopic smear was positive, but niacin accumulation and TB Ag MPT 64 (SD Bioline results were negative, then the isolates were categorized as NTM species. MTBC isolates were also tested for their sensitivity toward first-line anti-TB drugs, using isoniazid, rifampin, ethambutol, and streptomycin. Results: From 2440 sputum specimens of pulmonary TB suspect patients, 459 isolates (18.81% were detected as MTBC and 141 (5.78% as NTM species. Conclusion: From the analyzed sputum specimens, 18.81% were detected as MTBC and 5.78% as NTM species. Each pulmonary TB suspect patient needed clinical settings to suspect causative agents of MTBC and/or NTM species; clinicians have to understand the local epidemiological data for the evaluation of causes of lung infection to determine appropriate therapy.

Wild-Type MIC Distributions for Aminoglycoside and Cyclic Polypeptide Antibiotics Used for Treatment of Mycobacterium tuberculosis Infections▿

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Juréen, P.; Ängeby, K.; Sturegård, E.; Chryssanthou, E.; Giske, C. G.; Werngren, J.; Nordvall, M.; Johansson, A.; Kahlmeter, G.; Hoffner, S.; Schön, T.

2010-01-01

The aminoglycosides and cyclic polypeptides are essential drugs in the treatment of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis, underscoring the need for accurate and reproducible drug susceptibility testing (DST). The epidemiological cutoff value (ECOFF) separating wild-type susceptible strains from non-wild-type strains is an important but rarely used tool for indicating susceptibility breakpoints against Mycobacterium tuberculosis. In this study, we established wild-type MIC distributions on Middlebrook 7H10 medium for amikacin, kanamycin, streptomycin, capreomycin, and viomycin using 90 consecutive clinical isolates and 21 resistant strains. Overall, the MIC variation between and within runs did not exceed ±1 MIC dilution step, and validation of MIC values in Bactec 960 MGIT demonstrated good agreement. Tentative ECOFFs defining the wild type were established for all investigated drugs, including amikacin and viomycin, which currently lack susceptibility breakpoints for 7H10. Five out of seven amikacin- and kanamycin-resistant isolates were classified as susceptible to capreomycin according to the current critical concentration (10 mg/liter) but were non-wild type according to the ECOFF (4 mg/liter), suggesting that the critical concentration may be too high. All amikacin- and kanamycin-resistant isolates were clearly below the ECOFF for viomycin, and two of them were below the ECOFF for streptomycin, indicating that these two drugs may be considered for treatment of amikacin-resistant strains. Pharmacodynamic indices (peak serum concentration [Cmax]/MIC) were more favorable for amikacin and viomycin compared to kanamycin and capreomycin. In conclusion, our data emphasize the importance of establishing wild-type MIC distributions for improving the quality of drug susceptibility testing against Mycobacterium tuberculosis. PMID:20237102

Impact of fgd1 and ddn Diversity in Mycobacterium tuberculosis Complex on In Vitro Susceptibility to PA-824

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Feuerriegel, S.

2011-09-19

PA-824 is a promising drug candidate for the treatment of tuberculosis (TB). It is in phase II clinical trials as part of the first newly designed regimen containing multiple novel antituberculosis drugs (PA-824 in combination with moxifloxacin and pyrazinamide). However, given that the genes involved in resistance against PA-824 are not fully conserved in the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC), this regimen might not be equally effective against different MTBC genotypes. To investigate this question, we sequenced two PA-824 resistance genes (fgd1 [Rv0407] and ddn [Rv3547]) in 65 MTBC strains representing major phylogenetic lineages. The MICs of representative strains were determined using the modified proportion method in the Bactec MGIT 960 system. Our analysis revealed single-nucleotide polymorphisms in both genes that were specific either for several genotypes or for individual strains, yet none of these mutations significantly affected the PA-824 MICs (≤0.25 μg/ml). These results were supported by in silico modeling of the mutations identified in Fgd1. In contrast, “Mycobacterium canettii” strains displayed a higher MIC of 8 μg/ml. In conclusion, we found a large genetic diversity in PA-824 resistance genes that did not lead to elevated PA-824 MICs. In contrast, M. canettii strains had MICs that were above the plasma concentrations of PA-824 documented so far in clinical trials. As M. canettii is also intrinsically resistant against pyrazinamide, new regimens containing PA-824 and pyrazinamide might not be effective in treating M. canettii infections. This finding has implications for the design of multiple ongoing clinical trials.

Large-scale clinical comparison of the lysis-centrifugation and radiometric systems for blood culture

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Brannon, P.; Kiehn, T.E.

1985-01-01

The Isolator 10 lysis-centrifugation blood culture system (E. I. du Pont de Nemours and Co., Inc., Wilmington, Del.) was compared with the BACTEC radiometric method (Johnston Laboratories, Inc., Towson, Md.) with 6B and 7D broth media for the recovery of bacteria and yeasts. From 11,000 blood cultures, 1,174 clinically significant organisms were isolated. The Isolator system recovered significantly more total organisms, members of the family Enterobacteriaceae, Staphylococcus spp., and yeasts. The BACTEC system recovered significantly more Pseudomonas spp., Streptococcus spp., and anaerobes. Of the Isolator colony counts, 87% measured less than 11 CFU/ml of blood. Organisms, on an average, were detected the same day from each of the two culture systems. Only 13 of the 975 BACTEC isolates (0.01%) were recovered by subculture of growth-index-negative bottles, and 12 of the 13 were detected in another broth blood culture taken within 24 h. Contaminants were recovered from 4.8% of the Isolator 10 and 2.3% of the BACTEC cultures

A cross-sectional study of tuberculosis drug resistance among previously treated patients in a tertiary hospital in Accra, Ghana: public health implications of standardized regimens.

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Forson, Audrey; Kwara, Awewura; Kudzawu, Samuel; Omari, Michael; Otu, Jacob; Gehre, Florian; de Jong, Bouke; Antonio, Martin

2018-04-02

Mycobacterium tuberculosis drug resistance is a major challenge to the use of standardized regimens for tuberculosis (TB) therapy, especially among previously treated patients. We aimed to investigate the frequency and pattern of drug resistance among previously treated patients with smear-positive pulmonary tuberculosis at the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital Chest Clinic, Accra. This was a cross-sectional survey of mycobacterial isolates from previously treated patients referred to the Chest Clinic Laboratory between October 2010 and October 2013. The Bactec MGIT 960 system for mycobactrerial culture and drug sensitivity testing (DST) was used for sputum culture of AFB smear-positive patients with relapse, treatment failure, failure of smear conversion, or default. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize patient characteristics, and frequency and patterns of drug resistance. A total of 112 isolates were studied out of 155 from previously treated patients. Twenty contaminated (12.9%) and 23 non-viable isolates (14.8%) were excluded. Of the 112 studied isolates, 53 (47.3%) were pan-sensitive to all first-line drugs tested Any resistance (mono and poly resistance) to isoniazid was found in 44 isolates (39.3%) and any resistance to streptomycin in 43 (38.4%). Thirty-one (27.7%) were MDR-TB. Eleven (35.5%) out of 31 MDR-TB isolates were pre-XDR. MDR-TB isolates were more likely than non-MDR isolates to have streptomycin and ethambutol resistance. The main findings of this study were the high prevalence of MDR-TB and streptomycin resistance among previously treated TB patients, as well as a high prevalence of pre-XDR-TB among the MDR-TB patients, which suggest that first-line and second-line DST is essential to aid the design of effective regimens for these groups of patients in Ghana.

Sensitivity of PCR IS6110 in relation to culture and staining in Pott′s disease

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Manoj Kumar

2013-01-01

Full Text Available Background: Rapid diagnosis is essential to decrease the morbidity and mortality of Pott′s disease. The bacteriological methods are time-consuming or insensitive. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR provides a rapid diagnostic tool and hope for early diagnosis of this disease. The aim of this study was to compare and assess of a rapid and effective method among diagnostic battery (Ziehl-Neelsen (ZN microscopy, BACTEC culture and PCR of Pott′s disease. Materials and Methods: Sixty-five specimens from clinico-radiological suspected cases of Pott′s disease were included in this study. They were processed for ZN microscopy, BACTEC culture, and PCR IS6110. The tests tool′s efficiency, positive agreement Kc (Kappa coefficient, and significance level (P value were calculated for correlation between PCR and performed tests. Results: The PCR sensitivity reached to 96% and 46.3% among positive and negative specimens on ZN microscopy. Further, 94% and 36.4% sensitivity were found among positive and negative specimens by BACTEC culture. The total 38 (58.5% specimens were detected either ZN microscopy or by BACTEC culture. Thus, the overall sensitivity and specificity of PCR were 95% and 74.1%. The kappa coefficient and P value, calculated for PCR against BACTEC culture and combined results of performed bacteriological tests were (Kc=0.60, (P<0.001 and (Kc=0.70, (P<0.001, respectively. Above statistical relations showed a fair agreement with significant differences. Conclusion: The PCR IS6110 may be useful in rapid detection of clinico-radiological suspected cases of Pott′s disease and those that are negative with bacteriological methods.

Role of newer methods of diagnosing genital tuberculosis in infertile women

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Geetika Goel

2013-01-01

Full Text Available Genital tuberculosis is an important under-diagnosed factor of infertility. A vast majority of cases are asymptomatic and diagnosing them will help in treating such patients. We conducted a retrospective study in a tertiary care hospital of Delhi with an aim to compare different methods i.e., histopathological examination (HPE, acid-fast bacilli (AFB smears, Lowenstein-Jensen (LJ culture, BACTEC culture and polymerase chain reaction deoxyribonucleic acid (PCR-DNA for diagnosing endometrial tuberculosis in infertile women. The data from 546 samples of endometrial biopsy histopathology, AFB smears and LJ culture was collected and then analyzed. Of these, HPE for tuberculosis was positive in 13, LJ culture in 10, AFB smear was positive in one case. BACTEC and PCR-DNA were feasible for 90 patients and PCR-DNA was positive in 20 and BACTEC in eight patients. Out of 20 patients with PCR positive results, 15 were only PCR positive and were subjected to hyster-laparoscopy and five had evidence of tuberculosis. Thus, none of the available tests can pick up all cases of genital tuberculosis, but conventional methods i.e., histopathology and LJ culture still has an important role in the diagnosis of endometrial tuberculosis in government setups where BACTEC and PCR are not performed routinely due to lack of resources.

Comparative performance of PCR-based assay versus microscopy and culture for the direct detection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis in clinical respiratory specimens in Lebanon.

Science.gov (United States)

Araj, G F; Talhouk, R S; Itani, L Y; Jaber, W; Jamaleddine, G W

2000-09-01

American University of Beirut Medical Center, Lebanon. To assess the performance of a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) using primers that flank 542 bp within IS6110 in Mycobacterium tuberculosis (TB) vs. microscopy and BACTEC culture, in the diagnosis of tuberculosis. A total of 82 clinical respiratory pulmonary specimens and 73 samples from BACTEC vials were tested by the three methods. Of 24 smear-positive culture-positive (SP-CP) and 11 smear-negative culture-positive (SN-CP) TB specimens, PCR detected 83% and 64%, respectively. Among 17 specimens yielding mycobacteria other than tuberculosis (MOTT), the PCR was positive in 33% SP-CP and 14% SN-CP specimens. Among the 73 BACTEC vials, PCR was positive in 36 of 38 (95%) yielding culture-positive TB, and in one of 20 (5%) yielding culture positive MOTT. None of the 30 smear-negative culture-negative (SN-CN) clinical specimens and 15 of the CN vials were positive by PCR. The overall sensitivity of PCR was 77% and 95% for TB detection in respiratory specimens and BACTEC vials, respectively, and the specificity was 94% in both. Because a substantial number of TB cases are missed, especially in SN-CP specimens, a PCR-based assay utilizing these primers cannot be used reliably, alone, in clinical laboratory diagnosis of mycobacterial respiratory infections.

Laboratory experience with radiometric detection of bacteremia with three culture media

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Wicher, K.; Koscinski, D.

1984-01-01

In two long-term studies, the BACTEC radiometric system for detection of bacteremia was evaluated with three culture media each: (i) BACTEC media 6A (for aerobes) and 7B (for anaerobes) plus a thioglycolate medium and (ii) BACTEC media 6A, 7B, and 8A (hypertonic). In study 1, clinically significant isolates were identified in 1,873 (13.9%) of 13,432 blood cultures with all three media. The thioglycolate medium revealed 143 (1.1%) organisms not recovered from the 6A and 7B media. In study 2, isolates were identified in 1,135 (12.9%) of 8,759 cultures with all three media; 104 (1.2%) organisms were isolated only from the hypertonic medium. The increased yield of positive cultures in the three-medium system is likely due to the larger volume of blood cultured

Avaliação da sensibilidade dolorosa e fatores envolvidos na qualidade da amostra citológica do fluxo papilar: resultados preliminares da utilização de sistema automatizado de coleta Assessment of pain sensitivity and factors involved in the quality of the sample fluid cytologic papillary: preliminary results from the use of automated collection

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José Roberto Filassi

2010-10-01

Full Text Available OBJETIVO: avaliar a sensibilidade dolorosa e os fatores envolvidos na produção de fluido papilar adequado para análise de citologia oncótica, por meio de sistema automatizado de coleta. MÉTODOS: foram selecionadas 50 mulheres assintomáticas, sem antecedente pessoal ou familiar de câncer de mama, fora do ciclo gravídico-puerperal para coleta de fluido papilar por meio de sistema automatizado. Foram registradas e relacionadas com a produção de fluido papilar a idade da paciente, tabagismo, antecedente de cirurgia mamária, paridade, amamentação, estado menopausal e idade da menarca. Todo o material coletado foi fixado em meio apropriado, e encaminhado separadamente para análise de citologia oncótica. A sensibilidade dolorosa do procedimento de coleta foi avaliada por meio da Escala Category-Ratio Scale (CR10 de Borg. RESULTADOS: a idade variou de 22 a 59 anos, média de 41,6±8,6 anos. Das 50 pacientes, 20 (40% não apresentaram fluido papilar adequado para análise em nenhuma das mamas. Naquelas pacientes que se obteve fluido papilar adequado para análise de citologia oncótica, a paridade esteve inversamente relacionada com a capacidade de obter amostra celular adequada, nível de significância estatística (p=0,035, OR=0,0032 (IC 95%=0,0001-0,1388. Em relação à sensibilidade dolorosa, o exame foi bem tolerado. CONCLUSÕES: o método automatizado de coleta de fluido papilar para análise de citologia oncótica foi bem tolerado pelas mulheres tendo produzido material analisável em 60% dos casos, esteve inversamente relacionado com a paridade.PURPOSE: to evaluate painful sensitivity and factors involved in producing papillary fluid suitable for cytological analysis by means of automated collection. METHODS: we selected 50 asymptomatic women without a personal or family history of breast cancer, outside the pregnancy and childbirth cycle in order to collect papillary fluid by the automated system. We recorded and related to the

Avaliação da exeqüibilidade, eficácia e segurança do transplante lamelar semi-automatizado de córnea Evaluation of performance, efficacy and safety of semi-automated lamellar keratoplasty

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Núbia Cristina de Freitas Maia

2006-12-01

Full Text Available OBJETIVO: Avaliar a exeqüibilidade, eficácia e segurança do uso de microcerátomo e câmara anterior artificial para o transplante lamelar (sistema ALTK®. MÉTODOS: 21 olhos com opacidades corneanas superficiais foram submetidos ao transplante lamelar semi-automatizado de córnea. Nos olhos receptores a ceratectomia foi realizada de modo semelhante a uma cirurgia refrativa. As lamelas doadoras foram obtidas a partir de botões esclero-corneanos utilizando o mesmo microcerátomo e uma câmara anterior artificial. As medidas das espessuras corneanas foram feitas através da biomicroscopia ultra-sônica. RESULTADOS: As cirurgias obtiveram êxito em 19 olhos. Em 80% das lamelas obtidas em córneas doadoras e em 84,2% das lamelas em olhos receptores houve uma variação de até 0,5 mm do diâmetro desejado. Verificou-se alta semelhança entre as espessuras das lamelas obtidas nos olhos receptores e lamelas doadoras. Obteve-se acuidade visual corrigida pós-operatória igual ou superior a 20/40 em 52,6% dos olhos. Foram observadas complicações como diâmetro inadequado da lamela, perfuração intra-operatória no olho receptor e ectasia corneana pós-operatória (um caso. CONCLUSÕES: O transplante lamelar semi-automatizado de córnea mostrou-se exequível pela reprodutibilidade das espessuras e diâmetros das lamelas; eficaz pela melhora da acuidade visual pós-operatória e seguro, devido ao baixo índice de complicações cirúrgicas.PURPOSE: To evaluate the feasibility, efficacy and safety of a manual microkeratome and an artificial anterior chamber for lamellar keratoplasty (ALTK® system. METHODS: Twenty-one eyes with superficial corneal opacities were submitted to semi-automated lamellar keratectomy. In recipient eyes keratectomy was performed as in refractive surgery. The donor flap was removed from the preserved corneal shell using the same microkeratome and an artificial anterior chamber. Lamella thickness was measured through

Ascitic Fluid Culture In Cirrhotic Patients With Spontaneous Bacterial Peritonitis

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Sajjad, M.; Khan, Z.A.; Khan, M.S.

2016-01-01

Objective: To determine the frequency and compare the culture yield of bacterial isolation by conventional and blood culture BACTEC bottle techniques in cirrhotic patients with spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP). Study Design: Cross-sectional comparative study. Place and Duration of Study: Pathology Department, Bannu Medical College, Bannu, KPK, from January 2012 to December 2013. Methodology: Paracentesis of 20 ml of ascitic fluid tapped from cirrhotic patients with SBP was carried out by a single technologist. The analysis included differential leukocyte count (DLC), while 5 ml each of the fluid was inoculated into conventional culture media and BACTEC blood culture bottle. All the data were analysed on (SPSS) version 16 to determine frequencies with percentages and mean values with standard deviation. Chi-square test was used for comparing the yield of conventional and blood culture bottle methods. P-value was considered significant if < 0.05. Results: In 105 cases of ascitic fluid analyses, 27 (25.72 percent) had positive ascitic fluid culture whereas 78 (74.28 percent) had negative ascitic fluid culture. Ascitic fluid culture was positive in 6 cases by conventional culture media and in 27 cases by BACTEC culture bottle media (p < 0.001). Bacterial isolation was obtained by both culture methods in 6 cases (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Direct bedside inoculation of ascitic fluid by BACTEC culture bottle method has better yield as compared to conventional culture method. (author)

Influencia de las mezclas de gases Ar-He y Ar-He-O2 en la soldabilidad de la aleación de aluminio AA5083-O usando Proceso GMAW-P automatizado

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Enrique Esteban Niebles Nuñez

2014-09-01

Full Text Available La problemática en las empresas fabricantes de estructuras y construcciones soldadas en aluminio se centra en la disminución de las propiedades mecánicas de las uniones soldadas influenciada por el aporte térmico en las regiones de soldadura; así como, en los efectos de las discontinuidades y defectos, los altos costos de reparación de soldaduras y la baja productividad. El objetivo de este trabajo es evaluar la influencia de las mezclas de gases 80Ar20He (MG1, 60Ar40He (MG2, 80Ar19He1O2 (MG3, 60Ar39He1O2 (MG4, sobre la soldabilidad de la aleación de aluminio AA5083-O utilizando un material de aporte ER5183 y el proceso GMAW-P automatizado. La metodología incluyó una fase de parametrización de soldaduras, la caracterización del metal base y las regiones de soldadura. El análisis de resultados se llevó a cabo en términos de la evolución microestructural en las regiones de soldadura y evaluación de las propiedades como dureza, resistencia y elongación, así como la evaluación de discontinuidades y defectos de la unión, costos y velocidad de soldadura. Los resultados muestran que las mezclas de gas que contienen O2 favorecen significativamente la soldabilidad de la aleación en estudio.

Autopsias pediátricas realizadas en el Hospital «Juan Manuel Márquez» (1990-2002: Utilización del Sistema Automatizado de Registro y Control de Anatomía Patológica Pediatric autopsies performed at “Juan Manuel Márquez” Hospital (1990-2002: Use of the Automated System of Register and Control of Pathological Anatomy

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Mercedes Cárdenas Bruno

2005-12-01

Full Text Available Es propósito de este trabajo demostrar la utilidad de la autopsia para el conocimiento de las enfermedades y la evaluación de la calidad del trabajo médico, así como dar a conocer el apoyo que nos brinda el Sistema Automatizado de Registro y Control de Anatomía Patológica (SARCAP para la creación de bases de datos de autopsias destinadas a la recopilación de los datos de los modelos de autopsia. Se estudiaron 552 autopsias pediátricas de 796 fallecidos entre 1990 y 2002 en el Hospital Pediátrico «Juan Manuel Márquez». No se incluyeron los fallecidos menores de 29 días de nacidos. El estudio se realizó con la información de la base de datos creada por el SARCAP. El índice de autopsias fue de 69,3 %. El sexo masculino predominó y el rango de edad varió entre 1 y 18 años. Predominó el grupo de 29 días-11 meses. Las principales causas básicas de muerte fueron los tumores malignos de encéfalo y las anomalías congénitas del sistema nervioso central, y sus complicaciones fueron las principales causas directas e intermedias de muerte. La discrepancia diagnóstica pre y post mórtem en las causas básicas de muerte fue de 18,2 % y de 30,1 % en las causas directas de muerte. La infección, el cáncer y el daño multiorgánico constituyeron los trastornos que con mayor trascendencia influyeron en las causas básicas y directas de muerte. La autopsia es de gran utilidad para confirmar el diagnóstico, evaluar la calidad del trabajo médico y entender mejor las causas de muerte de los niños. El uso del Sistema Automatizado de Registro y Control de Anatomía Patológica nos permitió una mayor y rápida información en la clasificación de las causas de muerte.

Application of an automated protocol for the analysis of the temporal parameters of the response of reaction tennis players during the execution of split-step and volley Aplicación de un protocolo automatizado para el análisis de los parámetros temporales de la respuesta de reacción en jugadores de tenis durante la ejecución de split-step y volea

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V. Luis

2010-09-01

Full Text Available

This study is aimed to show the design and application process of an automated system to recording in real time the temporary parameters of tennis players reaction response during the execution of the technical-tactical movement called “split-step and second volley”. The knowledge about temporary characteristics of the action will be make used of identify the variables to cause in that and also to design an investigation to permit an improvement of the tennis players efficiency in this sequence of the play. In this way, the use of the technological system will allow a precise analysis of player’s motor response and the eminent information about the defined action
KEY WORDS: Tennis, split-step and volley, automated system of measure, reaction response

El propósito de este trabajo consiste en mostrar el proceso de diseño y la aplicación de un sistema automatizado de medida para el registro en tiempo real de los parámetros temporales de la respuesta de reacción en jugadores de tenis durante la ejecución de una acción técnico-táctica denominada “split-step y segunda volea”. El conocimiento generado en cuanto a las características temporales de la acción se empleará para identificar las variables que determinan la eficacia en la misma y diseñar una investigación que permita optimizar el rendimiento de los tenistas en esta secuencia del juego. Así, el empleo de este sistema tecnológico permitirá un análisis preciso de la respuesta motriz de los jugadores y la extracción de información relevante acerca de la acción definida.
PALABRAS CLAVE: Tenis, split-step y volea, sistema automatizado de medida, respuesta de reacción.

Rapid Detection and Identification of Candidemia by Direct Blood Culturing on Solid Medium by Use of Lysis-Centrifugation Method Combined with Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization–Time of Flight Mass Spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS)

Science.gov (United States)

Idelevich, Evgeny A.; Grünastel, Barbara

2016-01-01

ABSTRACT Candida sepsis is a life-threatening condition with increasing prevalence. In this study, direct blood culturing on solid medium using a lysis-centrifugation procedure enabled successful Candida species identification by matrix-assisted laser desorption–ionization time of flight mass spectrometry on average 3.8 h (Sabouraud agar) or 7.4 h (chocolate agar) before the positivity signal for control samples in Bactec mycosis-IC/F or Bactec Plus aerobic/F bottles, respectively. Direct culturing on solid medium accelerated candidemia diagnostics compared to that with automated broth-based systems. PMID:27795344

Rapid Detection and Identification of Candidemia by Direct Blood Culturing on Solid Medium by Use of Lysis-Centrifugation Method Combined with Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization-Time of Flight Mass Spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS).

Science.gov (United States)

Idelevich, Evgeny A; Grünastel, Barbara; Becker, Karsten

2017-01-01

Candida sepsis is a life-threatening condition with increasing prevalence. In this study, direct blood culturing on solid medium using a lysis-centrifugation procedure enabled successful Candida species identification by matrix-assisted laser desorption-ionization time of flight mass spectrometry on average 3.8 h (Sabouraud agar) or 7.4 h (chocolate agar) before the positivity signal for control samples in Bactec mycosis-IC/F or Bactec Plus aerobic/F bottles, respectively. Direct culturing on solid medium accelerated candidemia diagnostics compared to that with automated broth-based systems. Copyright © 2016 American Society for Microbiology.

Evaluation of a radiometric method for studying bacterial activity in the presence of antimicrobial agents

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Cutler, R.R.; Wilson, P.; Clarke, F.V. (Newham District Microbiology Labs., St. Andrews Hospital, London (UK))

1989-06-01

In a study involving 2760 tests, the BACTEC semi-automatic radiometric method which measures bacterial metabolic activity and produces a BACTEC growth index, was compared with two conventional methods commonly used for determining growth, absorbance and viable counts. In 92% of radiometry tests the suppression of growth was inversely related to the antibiotic concentration. This compared with 83% for absorbance and 63% for viable counts. The radiometric method was found to be more rapid, easier to use and more reproducible in determining the effect of antibiotics on the activity of bacteria than viable counting or absorbance methods. (author).

Evaluation of a radiometric method for studying bacterial activity in the presence of antimicrobial agents

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Cutler, R.R.; Wilson, P.; Clarke, F.V.

1989-01-01

In a study involving 2760 tests, the BACTEC semi-automatic radiometric method which measures bacterial metabolic activity and produces a BACTEC growth index, was compared with two conventional methods commonly used for determining growth, absorbance and viable counts. In 92% of radiometry tests the suppression of growth was inversely related to the antibiotic concentration. This compared with 83% for absorbance and 63% for viable counts. The radiometric method was found to be more rapid, easier to use and more reproducible in determining the effect of antibiotics on the activity of bacteria than viable counting or absorbance methods. (author)

Diagnóstico de virus respiratorios utilizando un sistema automatizado de PCR múltiples (FilmArray y su comparación con métodos convencionales

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Débora N Marcone

2015-03-01

Full Text Available Las infecciones respiratorias agudas producen una importante morbimortalidad y comúnmente son causadas por virus. En Argentina, los programas de vigilancia epidemiológica se basan en la detección de antígenos virales por inmunofluorescencia (IF, aunque es bien conocido que los métodos moleculares son más sensibles. El panel respiratorio (PR FilmArray (PR-FilmArray es un equipo comercial automatizado de PCR múltiples que detecta 17 virus respiratorios y 3 bacterias, en un sistema cerrado que requiere 5 min de procesamiento y una 1 h de instrumentación. Se evaluó un total de 315 muestras respiratorias de niños menores de 6 años con infecciones respiratorias agudas por IF para 8 virus respiratorios y por RT-PCR para rinovirus. Posteriormente, estas muestras se estudiaron con el PR-FilmArray. La frecuencia de positividad al considerar los 9 virus estudiados por IF y RT-PCR fue del 75 %; por PR-FilmArray fue del 92 %. El porcentaje de acuerdo positivo entre ambas metodologías fue del 70,5 % y el de acuerdo negativo fue del 99,6 % (intervalo de confianza 95 %: 65,5-75,1 y 99,2-99,8, respectivamente. El PR-FilmArray permitió obtener un mayor diagnóstico positivo (97 % y detectó otros virus, como los coronavirus NL63, 229E, OC43 y HKU1 (10 % y los bocavirus (18 %. Además, permitió identificar coinfecciones múltiples (39 % con 2, 3, 4 y hasta 5 virus. Actualmente, la IF continúa siendo el método más utilizado en los países latinoamericanos para el diagnóstico de virus respiratorios por su bajo costo, por su capacidad para procesar un alto número de muestras simultáneamente y porque los resultados de los virus más frecuentes están disponibles en 5 h. Sin embargo, la futura incorporación de métodos moleculares aumentaría notablemente la capacidad diagnóstica.

Baseline predictors of sputum culture conversion in pulmonary tuberculosis: importance of cavities, smoking, time to detection and W-Beijing genotype.

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Marianne E Visser

Full Text Available Time to detection (TTD on automated liquid mycobacterial cultures is an emerging biomarker of tuberculosis outcomes. The M. tuberculosis W-Beijing genotype is spreading globally, indicating a selective advantage. There is a paucity of data on the association between baseline TTD and W-Beijing genotype and tuberculosis outcomes.To assess baseline predictors of failure of sputum culture conversion, within the first 2 months of antitubercular therapy, in participants with pulmonary tuberculosis.Between May 2005 and August 2008 we conducted a prospective cohort study of time to sputum culture conversion in ambulatory participants with first episodes of smear and culture positive pulmonary tuberculosis attending two primary care clinics in Cape Town, South Africa. Rifampicin resistance (diagnosed on phenotypic susceptibility testing was an exclusion criterion. Sputum was collected weekly for 8 weeks for mycobacterial culture on liquid media (BACTEC MGIT 960. Due to missing data, multiple imputation was performed. Time to sputum culture conversion was analysed using a Cox-proportional hazards model. Bayesian model averaging determined the posterior effect probability for each variable.113 participants were enrolled (30.1% female, 10.5% HIV-infected, 44.2% W-Beijing genotype, and 89% cavities. On Kaplan Meier analysis 50.4% of participants underwent sputum culture conversion by 8 weeks. The following baseline factors were associated with slower sputum culture conversion: TTD (adjusted hazard ratio (aHR = 1.11, 95% CI 1.02; 1.2, lung cavities (aHR = 0.13, 95% CI 0.02; 0.95, ever smoking (aHR = 0.32, 95% CI 0.1; 1.02 and the W-Beijing genotype (aHR = 0.51, 95% CI 0.25; 1.07. On Bayesian model averaging, posterior probability effects were strong for TTD, lung cavitation and smoking and moderate for W-Beijing genotype.We found that baseline TTD, smoking, cavities and W-Beijing genotype were associated with delayed 2 month sputum culture

Baseline predictors of sputum culture conversion in pulmonary tuberculosis: importance of cavities, smoking, time to detection and W-Beijing genotype.

Science.gov (United States)

Visser, Marianne E; Stead, Michael C; Walzl, Gerhard; Warren, Rob; Schomaker, Michael; Grewal, Harleen M S; Swart, Elizabeth C; Maartens, Gary

2012-01-01

Time to detection (TTD) on automated liquid mycobacterial cultures is an emerging biomarker of tuberculosis outcomes. The M. tuberculosis W-Beijing genotype is spreading globally, indicating a selective advantage. There is a paucity of data on the association between baseline TTD and W-Beijing genotype and tuberculosis outcomes. To assess baseline predictors of failure of sputum culture conversion, within the first 2 months of antitubercular therapy, in participants with pulmonary tuberculosis. Between May 2005 and August 2008 we conducted a prospective cohort study of time to sputum culture conversion in ambulatory participants with first episodes of smear and culture positive pulmonary tuberculosis attending two primary care clinics in Cape Town, South Africa. Rifampicin resistance (diagnosed on phenotypic susceptibility testing) was an exclusion criterion. Sputum was collected weekly for 8 weeks for mycobacterial culture on liquid media (BACTEC MGIT 960). Due to missing data, multiple imputation was performed. Time to sputum culture conversion was analysed using a Cox-proportional hazards model. Bayesian model averaging determined the posterior effect probability for each variable. 113 participants were enrolled (30.1% female, 10.5% HIV-infected, 44.2% W-Beijing genotype, and 89% cavities). On Kaplan Meier analysis 50.4% of participants underwent sputum culture conversion by 8 weeks. The following baseline factors were associated with slower sputum culture conversion: TTD (adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) = 1.11, 95% CI 1.02; 1.2), lung cavities (aHR = 0.13, 95% CI 0.02; 0.95), ever smoking (aHR = 0.32, 95% CI 0.1; 1.02) and the W-Beijing genotype (aHR = 0.51, 95% CI 0.25; 1.07). On Bayesian model averaging, posterior probability effects were strong for TTD, lung cavitation and smoking and moderate for W-Beijing genotype. We found that baseline TTD, smoking, cavities and W-Beijing genotype were associated with delayed 2 month sputum culture. Larger

Rapid presumptive identification of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis-bovis complex by radiometric determination of heat stable urease

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Gandy, J.H.; Pruden, E.L.; Cox, F.R.

1983-01-01

Simple and rapid Bactec methodologies for the determination of neat (unaltered) and heat stable urease activity of mycobacteria are presented. Clinical isolates (63) and stock cultures (32)--consisting of: M. tuberculosis (19), M. bovis (5), M. kansasii (15), M. marinum (4), M. simiae (3), M. scrofulaceum (16), M. gordonae (6), M. szulgai (6), M. flavescens (1), M. gastri (1), M. intracellulare (6), M. fortuitum-chelonei complex (12), and M. smegmatis (1)--were tested for neat urease activity by Bactec radiometry. Mycobacterial isolates (50-100 mg wet weight) were incubated at 35 degrees C for 30 minutes with microCi14C-urea. Urease-positive mycobacteria gave Bactec growth index (GI) values greater than 100 units, whereas urease-negative species gave values less than 10 GI units. Eighty-three isolates possessing neat urease activity were heated at 80 degrees C for 30 minutes followed by incubation at 35 degrees C for 30 minutes with 1 microCi14C-urea. Mycobacterium tuberculosis-bovis complex demonstrated heat-stable urease activity (GI more than 130 units) and could be distinguished from mycobacteria other than tuberculosis (MOTT), which gave GI values equal to or less than 40 units

Sistema automatizado de aquecimento solar para controle de fitopatógenos da água de irrigação Automatic solar heating system for control of pathogens in irrigation water

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Carlos A. da S. Braga

2001-05-01

Full Text Available O sistema automatizado de aquecimento solar, baseou-se em um processo misto de aquecimento da água em circuito fechado, através de coletores planos e dois princípios integrados de transmissão de calor, um por convecção natural e o outro por convecção forçada. A automatização foi realizada por monitores termostáticos diferenciais. Os testes normativos abrangeram as temperaturas programadas de 50, 55 e 60 ºC, que contemplam a faixa de temperatura letal para a maioria dos fitopatógenos. Os resultados indicaram rendimentos térmicos da ordem de 63, 55 e 52%, superiores, quando comparados aos rendimentos médios de 50, 47 e 45% dos sistemas convencionais. Os resultados experimentais mostraram que o sistema é eficiente para a eliminação de patógenos da água de irrigação, sendo promissor como uma opção de baixo custo para ser usado em viveiros, casas-de-vegetação e pequenas ou médias propriedades agrícolas.In the system proposed, which uses flat collectors, both natural and forced convection are responsible for the transfer of heat to the circulating water. The automation of the system is performed by thermostats, placed in different places, electrically connected to other components like valves and a water pump. Under identical test conditions and in the range of temperatures considered (50, 55 and 60 ºC, which includes the reference lethal temperature range for pathogens, the thermal efficiencies attained were 63, 55 and 52%, which compare favorably with those obtained in conventional systems, these being 50, 47 and 42% respectively, as reported. The results of the experimental trials show that the system described is a viable option to eliminate pathogens present in irrigation water, while its low cost makes it attractive for use in nurseries, greenhouses and on small farms.

Implementación del Control en Planta de un Centro de Distribución Automatizado mediante Agentes Físicos y RFID

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Javier de las Morenas

2015-01-01

Full Text Available Resumen: En la última década, la aplicación de la tecnología de sistemas multiagente para el control en planta ha generado gran expectación por parte de profesionales e investigadores. El uso de esta tecnología, por la propia definición de los agentes como: sistemas reactivos (capaces de responder ante cambios en el entorno, proactivos (generando iniciativas dirigidas a alcanzar sus objetivos, autónomos y con capacidades sociales (la toma de decisiones está consensuada, ha propiciado la aparición de gran cantidad de iniciativas. Lamentablemente, la mayoría de estas iniciativas se reducen únicamente a definiciones de agentes, declaración de intenciones o simulaciones, o bien constituyen propuestas demasiado ambiciosas, lo que ha impedido que la industria adopte este tipo de soluciones. Este artículo presenta una aproximación para la implementación de los agentes encargados del control en planta, conocidos como agentes físicos u holones, sobre una plataforma experimental que representa las instalaciones de un centro de distribución automatizado. Se ha tomado como punto de partida el concepto de holón, pero se ha adaptado de manera que la toma de decisiones tenga lugar en el controlador industrial. El trabajo se ha centrado en alcanzar una toma de decisiones en planta inteligente. Se definen dos tipos de agentes y se ha modelado, mediante redes de Petri, la forma en la que interaccionan estos agentes en la toma de decisiones que surgen en el funcionamiento de una planta inteligente. Finalmente los modelos se han implementado sobre autómatas programables. Abstract: The application of the multi-agent systems technology for shop-floor control has generated great expectations among professionals and researchers in the last decade. The use of this technology conveys, by the definition of the agents, reactive systems (able to respond to changes, proactive systems (their behavior is oriented towards the achievement of predefined

Modelo para la gestión de la innovación tecnológica en el sector inmobiliario Management model for technological innovation in real estate

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Daniel Barrio

2011-12-01

Full Text Available En la actualidad, en México no se ha implementado algún modelo para la gestión de la innovación tecnológica, la cual se refiere a la creación o modificación de un producto o proceso de manera práctica que sea útil para obtener beneficios económicos al introducirla al mercado, en el sector inmobiliario. Esto ha ocasionado que los esfuerzos en dicha área sean individuales y poco repetibles, sin embargo, se ha reconocido en dicho sector la necesidad de implementar procesos para el desarrollo de innovación tecnológica con el fin de lograr una diferenciación ante la creciente competencia. Debemos entender la gestión de la innovación tecnológica como el proceso orientado a organizar los recursos con la finalidad de crear conocimiento, procesos y productos. En el presente artículo se pretende atacar esta necesidad implementando un Modelo para la Gestión de la Innovación Tecnológica (MGIT aplicado al sector inmobiliario, tomando en cuenta las tendencias de evolución en las tecnologías de la construcción y las características distintivas de este sector productivo, con la finalidad de facilitar los lineamientos a seguir para lograr un proceso de innovación tecnológica que disminuya tiempo y costo. El MGIT se valida con un caso de aplicación para la creación de un sistema nuevo de fachadas para edificios de vivienda residencial.There has not been implemented, in Mexico, a model for the management of technological innovation, which refers to the creation or modification of a product or process in a practical way that is useful to generate economic benefits by introducing the innovation to the market. This has led to isolated and irregular efforts in this area; however, the real state sector has recognized the need to implement such management of technological innovation in order to achieve differentiation. Management of technological innovation must be understood as the process to organize resources in order to create knowledge

Role of blood culture systems in the evaluation of epidemiological features of coagulase-negative staphylococcal bloodstream infection in critically ill patients.

Science.gov (United States)

Oud, L; Krimerman, S; Salam, N; Srugo, I

1999-12-01

The impact of blood culture systems on the detection of coagulase-negative staphylococcal bloodstream infections in critically ill patients prior to and following the introduction of the Bactec 9240 blood culture system (Becton Dickinson Diagnostic Instrument Systems, USA), which replaced the Bactec NR 730 (Becton Dickinson Diagnostic Instrument Systems), was investigated over a 3-year period. Following the introduction of the new culture system, the incidence of bloodstream infections doubled (P<0.001). Patient demographics, severity of illness, and mortality remained unchanged, while the annual standardized mortality ratio decreased significantly. These data suggest that blood culture systems may have a major impact on the perceived incidence of coagulase-negative staphylococcal bloodstream infections in this population.

Serological testing versus other strategies for diagnosis of active tuberculosis in India: a cost-effectiveness analysis.

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David W Dowdy

2011-08-01

Full Text Available Undiagnosed and misdiagnosed tuberculosis (TB drives the epidemic in India. Serological (antibody detection TB tests are not recommended by any agency, but widely used in many countries, including the Indian private sector. The cost and impact of using serology compared with other diagnostic techniques is unknown.Taking a patient cohort conservatively equal to the annual number of serological tests done in India (1.5 million adults suspected of having active TB, we used decision analysis to estimate costs and effectiveness of sputum smear microscopy (US$3.62 for two smears, microscopy plus automated liquid culture (mycobacterium growth indicator tube [MGIT], US$20/test, and serological testing (anda-tb ELISA, US$20/test. Data on test accuracy and costs were obtained from published literature. We adopted the perspective of the Indian TB control sector and an analysis frame of 1 year. Our primary outcome was the incremental cost per disability-adjusted life year (DALY averted. We performed one-way sensitivity analysis on all model parameters, with multiway sensitivity analysis on variables to which the model was most sensitive. If used instead of sputum microscopy, serology generated an estimated 14,000 more TB diagnoses, but also 121,000 more false-positive diagnoses, 102,000 fewer DALYs averted, and 32,000 more secondary TB cases than microscopy, at approximately four times the incremental cost (US$47.5 million versus US$11.9 million. When added to high-quality sputum smears, MGIT culture was estimated to avert 130,000 incremental DALYs at an incremental cost of US$213 per DALY averted. Serology was dominated by (i.e., more costly and less effective than MGIT culture and remained less economically favorable than sputum smear or TB culture in one-way and multiway sensitivity analyses.In India, sputum smear microscopy remains the most cost-effective diagnostic test available for active TB; efforts to increase access to quality-assured microscopy

Sistema Automatizado de Emailing Marketing

OpenAIRE

Martínez López, Javier

2010-01-01

Projecte final de carrera realitzat en col.laboració amb E-xpertel S.A El presente proyecto describe el diseño e implementación de un sistema de automatización de campañas de marketing a través de email hacia clientes y/o clientes potenciales. Este sistema tiene como objetivos principales adquirir nuevos clientes y conseguir la delización de los mismos. El sistema se complementa con una plataforma CRM (Customer Relationship Management) para el mantenimiento de datos de empresa...

Comparative growth of trichoderma strains in different nutritional sources, using bioscreen c automated system Crescimento de linhagens de Trichoderma em diferentes fontes nutricionais, empregando o sistema automatizado Bioscreen C.

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Bianca Caroline Rossi-Rodrigues

2009-06-01

Full Text Available Trichoderma is one of the fungi genera that produce important metabolites for industry. The growth of these organisms is a consequence of the nutritional sources used as also of the physical conditions employed to cultivate them. In this work, the automated Bioscreen C system was used to evaluate the influence of different nutritional sources on the growth of Trichoderma strains (T. hamatum, T. harzianum, T. viride, and T. longibrachiatum isolated from the soil in the Juréia-Itatins Ecological Station (JIES, São Paulo State - Brazil.The cultures were grown in liquid culture media containing different carbon- (2%; w/v and nitrogen (1%; w/v sources at 28ºC, pH 6.5, and agitated at 150 rpm for 72 h. The results showed, as expected, that glucose is superior to sucrose as a growth-stimulating carbon source in the Trichoderma strains studied, while yeast extract and tryptone were good growth-stimulating nitrogen sources in the cultivation of T. hamatum and T. harzianum.Trichoderma é um dos gêneros de fungos produtores de metabólitos de interesse industrial. O crescimento destes organismos é conseqüência das fontes nutricionais utilizadas, juntamente com as condições físicas de cultivo. Neste trabalho, o sistema automatizado Bioscreen C foi utilizado para avaliar a influência de diferentes fontes nutricionais sobre o crescimento de linhagens de Trichoderma (T. hamatum, T. harzianum, T. viride e T. longibrachiatum isoladas do solo da Estação Ecológica da Juréia-Itatins (JIES, São Paulo - Brasil. Os cultivos foram feitos em meios líquidos de cultura contendo diferentes fontes de carbono (2%; w / v e nitrogênio (1%; w / v a 28ºC, pH 6,5 e agitados a 150 rpm durante 72 h. Os resultados mostraram, conforme esperado, que a glicose é melhor do que a sacarose como fonte de carbono indutora de crescimento das linhagens de Trichoderma testadas, enquanto que, o extrato de leveduras e a triptona foram boas fontes de nitrogênio indutoras de

Modelo geoespacial automatizado para la regionalización operativa en planeación de redes de servicios de salud Automated geospatial model for health services strategic planning

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Juan Eugenio Hernández-Ávila

2010-10-01

Full Text Available Objetivo. Desarrollar un modelo automatizado de regionalización operativa para la planeación de las redes de servicios de salud propuestas en el Modelo Integrador de Atención a la Salud (MIDAS. Material y métodos. Con información disponible para México en 2005 y 2007 se realizó un modelo geoespacial para estimar el área potencial de influencia alrededor de cada unidad de atención médica, con base en el menor tiempo de viaje. Los resultados se compararon con un Estudio de Regionalización Operativa (ERO para Oaxaca llevado a cabo en 2005. Resultados. Comparado con el modelo geoespacial, el ERO asignó 48% de las localidades a centros de salud más lejanos y 23% de los centros de salud a hospitales más lejanos. Conclusiones. El modelo calculado en este estudio generó una regionalización más eficiente que el ERO de Oaxaca, minimizando el tiempo de viaje para el acceso a los servicios de salud. Este modelo ha sido adoptado por la Dirección General de Planeación y Desarrollo en Salud para la instrumentación del Plan Maestro Sectorial de Recursos para la Atención de la Salud.Objective. To develop an automated model for the operational regionalization needed in the planning of the health service networks proposed by the new Mexican health care model (Modelo Integrador de Servicios de Salud MIDAS. Material and Methods. Using available data for México during 2005 and 2007, a geospatial model was developed to estimate potential catchment areas around health facilities based on access travel time. The results were compared with an operational regionalization (ERO study manually carried out in Oaxaca with 2005 data. Results. The ERO assigned 48% of villages to health care centers further away than those assigned by the geospatial model, and 23% of these health centers referred patients to more distant hospitals. Conclusions. The model calculated by this study generated a more efficient regionalization than the ERO model, minimizing travel

Growth characteristics of liquid cultures increase the reliability of presumptive identification of Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex.

Science.gov (United States)

Pinhata, Juliana Maira Watanabe; Felippe, Isis Moreira; Gallo, Juliana Failde; Chimara, Erica; Ferrazoli, Lucilaine; de Oliveira, Rosangela Siqueira

2018-04-23

We evaluated the microscopic and macroscopic characteristics of mycobacteria growth indicator tube (MGIT) cultures for the presumptive identification of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC) and assessed the reliability of this strategy for correctly directing isolates to drug susceptibility testing (DST) or species identification. A total of 1526 isolates of mycobacteria received at the Instituto Adolfo Lutz were prospectively subjected to presumptive identification by the observation of growth characteristics along with cord formation detection via microscopy. The presumptive identification showed a sensitivity, specificity and accuracy of 98.8, 92.5 and 97.9 %, respectively. Macroscopic analysis of MTBC isolates that would have been erroneously classified as non-tuberculous mycobacteria based solely on microscopic morphology enabled us to direct them rapidly to DST, representing a substantial gain to patients. In conclusion, the growth characteristics of mycobacteria in MGIT, when considered along with cord formation, increased the reliability of the presumptive identification, which has a great impact on the laboratory budget and turnaround times.

Avaliação da microestrutura e propriedades mecânicas de metais de solda obtidos por processos de soldagem manual e automatizado utilizado na soldagem de aço API 5L X80 Evaluation of microstructure and mechanical properties of weld metals obtained by manual and automated welding process used in the welding of API 5L X80 steel

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Siderley Fernandes Albuquerque

2011-12-01

Full Text Available O objetivo do trabalho foi avaliar as características da zona termicamente afetada (ZTA e a microestrutura e propriedades mecânicas de metais de solda de juntas soldadas do aço API 5L X80, obtidos para quatro diferentes procedimentos de soldagem utilizando processos manuais e automatizados. Para isto, chapas do referido aço foram soldadas por processo manual ao Arco Elétrico com Eletrodo Revestido (SMAW, utilizando 473 e 673 K como temperaturas de interpasses e o eletrodo celulósico AWS E8010-G como consumível; por processo ao Arco Elétrico com Arame Tubular (FCAW robotizado, utilizando o arame AWS E71T- 1C como metal de adição e argônio com 25%CO2 como gás de proteção; por processo a Arco Elétrico com Eletrodo de Tungstênio (GTAW mecanizado na raiz da solda, usando o arame ER70S-3 e argônio como gás de proteção. As análises microestruturais foram relacionadas com os resultados de ensaios de impacto Charpy nos metais de solda e com os perfis de microdureza Vickers ao longo da junta soldada. Os resultados indicaram maiores percentuais de Ferrita Acicular e maiores valores de resistência ao impacto nos metais de solda e uma menor extensão e granulometria da ZTA, associado ao procedimento de soldagem utilizando processo automatizado com maior velocidade de soldagem.The objective of this work was to evaluate the heat affected zone characteristics and weld metals microstructure and mechanical properties of API 5L X80 steel welded joints, obtained for four different welding procedures using manual and automated processes. For this, plates of this steel were welded by manual Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW process with interpasses temperatures of 473 e 673 K, and using AWS E8010-G electrode as filler metals; robotized Flux Cored Arc Welding (FCAW process, using AWS E71T-1C wire and Ar25%CO2 as consumable and mechanized Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW process, for the root pass using AWS ER70S-3 and Ar as consumable .The

Spot sputum samples are at least as good as early morning samples for identifying Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

Science.gov (United States)

Murphy, Michael E; Phillips, Patrick P J; Mendel, Carl M; Bongard, Emily; Bateson, Anna L C; Hunt, Robert; Murthy, Saraswathi; Singh, Kasha P; Brown, Michael; Crook, Angela M; Nunn, Andrew J; Meredith, Sarah K; Lipman, Marc; McHugh, Timothy D; Gillespie, Stephen H

2017-10-27

The use of early morning sputum samples (EMS) to diagnose tuberculosis (TB) can result in treatment delay given the need for the patient to return to the clinic with the EMS, increasing the chance of patients being lost during their diagnostic workup. However, there is little evidence to support the superiority of EMS over spot sputum samples. In this new analysis of the REMoxTB study, we compare the diagnostic accuracy of EMS with spot samples for identifying Mycobacterium tuberculosis pre- and post-treatment. Patients who were smear positive at screening were enrolled into the study. Paired sputum samples (one EMS and one spot) were collected at each trial visit pre- and post-treatment. Microscopy and culture on solid LJ and liquid MGIT media were performed on all samples; those missing corresponding paired results were excluded from the analyses. Data from 1115 pre- and 2995 post-treatment paired samples from 1931 patients enrolled in the REMoxTB study were analysed. Patients were recruited from South Africa (47%), East Africa (21%), India (20%), Asia (11%), and North America (1%); 70% were male, median age 31 years (IQR 24-41), 139 (7%) co-infected with HIV with a median CD4 cell count of 399 cells/μL (IQR 318-535). Pre-treatment spot samples had a higher yield of positive Ziehl-Neelsen smears (98% vs. 97%, P = 0.02) and LJ cultures (87% vs. 82%, P = 0.006) than EMS, but there was no difference for positivity by MGIT (93% vs. 95%, P = 0.18). Contaminated and false-positive MGIT were found more often with EMS rather than spot samples. Surprisingly, pre-treatment EMS had a higher smear grading and shorter time-to-positivity, by 1 day, than spot samples in MGIT culture (4.5 vs. 5.5 days, P spot samples in those with unfavourable outcomes, there were no differences in smear or culture results, and positive results were not detected earlier in Kaplan-Meier analyses in either EMS or spot samples. Our data do not support the hypothesis that EMS

Comparación de los métodos de inmunoensayo enzimático automatizado (VIDAS y PCR para la detección de Salmonella spp. en expendios de la ciudad de Santa Marta (Colombia

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Libardo Acosta

2013-01-01

Full Text Available Objetivo: comparar los métodos de inmunoensayo enzimático automatizado VIDAS, (Vi- tek Immunodiagnostic Assay System, y el análisis molecular por Reacción en Cadena de la Polimerasa (PCR para detectar Salmonella spp en expendios de la ciudad de Santa Marta (Colombia. Materiales y métodos: Previamente se reportó la estandarización de la técnica de PCR para la detección de Salmonella spp. en un lapso de 12 horas. En colaboración con el Labo- ratorio de Salud Pública del departamento del Magdalena se procedió a tomar un total de 65 muestras de alimentos para análisis de vigilancia rutinaria, discriminados así: carne de res: 14 (21.5 %, embutidos: 18 (27.7 %, pollo: 7(10.8 %, pescado: 3(4.6 %, harinas: 13 (20 %, lácteos: 5 (7.7 % salsas: 4(6.2 % y ensalada: 1(1.5 %, en la ciudad de Santa Marta entre septiembre y noviembre de 2010. Las 65 muestras fueron sometidas a análisis microbiológico para la determinación de Salmonella spp. en el Laboratorio de Salud Pú- blica del departamento del Magdalena siguiendo el protocolo del VIDAS. Una alícuota de 1 mL del preenriquecimiento no selectivo fue enviada refrigerada al laboratorio de biología molecular de la Universidad Cooperativa de Colombia para ser analizada por PCR. Resultados: Los resultados muestran que los alimentos analizados en el Laboratorio de Salud Pública del departamento del Magdalena con VIDAS presentaron Salmonella spp. únicamente en cárnicos: 5/65 (7.7 %, mientras que esas mismas muestras analizadas por PCR mostraban la presencia de Salmonella spp. en 36/65 (55.4 %. Conclusiones: Los resultados indican que la PCR puede ser aplicada para realizar vigilan- cia epidemiológica y obtener resultados cualitativos confiables en menor tiempo.

Diagnostic potential of IS6110, 38kDa, 65kDa and 85B sequence-based polymerase chain reaction in the diagnosis of Mycobacterium tuberculosis in clinical samples

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Negi S

2007-01-01

Full Text Available Purpose: The correlation between the presence of specific gene sequence of M. tuberculosis and specific diagnosis of clinical tuberculosis is not known. This study compared the results of polymerase chain reaction (PCR amplification of M . tuberculosis specific DNA sequences (IS6110, 65kDa, 38kDa and mRNA coding for 85 B protein from different clinical samples of pulmonary and extrapulmonary tuberculosis. Methods: One hundred and seventy-two clinical samples from suspected tuberculosis patients were tested for smear examination, culture (LJ and rapid BACTEC 460 TB system and PCR. PCR was performed with specific primers for the targets: IS6110, 65kDa, 38kDa and 85B. Results: Each PCR test was found to have a much higher positivity than conventional test and BACTEC culture ( P < 0.05. Smear positive samples (56 and the samples (36 showing positive results by conventional methods (smear and LJ medium culture and BACTEC were found to be positive by all PCR protocols. No significant difference was found between the four PCR protocols ( P >0.05. The primer specific for amplifying the 123bp IS6110 fragment gave the highest positivity (83%, followed by 65kDa, 38kDa and 85B RT-PCR in descending order. Conclusions: These data suggest that the presence of IS6110 correlates more closely with the diagnosis of clinical tuberculosis than that of 65kDa, 38kDa and 85B proteins.

A dedicated fungal culture medium is useful in the diagnosis of fungemia: a retrospective cross-sectional study.

Science.gov (United States)

Zheng, Shuwei; Ng, Tong Yong; Li, Huihua; Tan, Ai Ling; Tan, Thuan Tong; Tan, Ban Hock

2016-01-01

Mortality for candidemia ranges from 15% to 35%. Current guidelines recommend inoculating blood into three aerobic and three anaerobic blood culture bottles when candidemia is suspected, without mention of a fungal blood culture bottle. To determine the value of the BACTEC Myco/F Lytic blood culture media in the diagnosis of fungemia. A two-year retrospective cross-sectional study was performed for patients who had fungemia with submitted BACTEC Plus Aerobic/F (Aer), BACTEC Plus Anaerobic/F (Anaer) or Myco/F Lytic (Myco) blood culture bottles. The detection rate of fungemia was 77.4% in 93 patients with contemporaneously submitted blood culture bottles when limited to only Aer/Anaer culture results. The detection rate improved significantly with the addition of the Myco culture bottle results (pculture bottle submissions were less useful for patients with appropriate anti-fungal therapy administered within 48 hours [OR = 0.18, 95% CI = (0.06, 0.49), p = 0.001] and those with fungal growth detected within 48 hours [OR = 0.33, 95% CI = (0.12, 0.89), p = 0.001]. Among a subset of patients with concordant blood culture results, those with Myco culture bottles submission allowed earlier fungal detection and speciation by at least one day in 27.5% and 25.0% of the cases respectively. Our study highlights the importance of a dedicated fungal blood culture when fungemia is clinically suspected. Nearly a quarter of fungemias may be missed if a fungal blood culture is not performed.

Improved detection of Mycobacterium bovis infection in bovine lymph node tissue using immunomagnetic separation (IMS-based methods.

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Linda D Stewart

Full Text Available Immunomagnetic separation (IMS can selectively isolate and concentrate Mycobacterium bovis cells from lymph node tissue to facilitate subsequent detection by PCR (IMS-PCR or culture (IMS-MGIT. This study describes application of these novel IMS-based methods to test for M. bovis in a survey of 280 bovine lymph nodes (206 visibly lesioned (VL, 74 non-visibly lesioned (NVL collected at slaughter as part of the Northern Ireland bovine TB eradication programme. Their performance was evaluated relative to culture. Overall, 174 (62.1% lymph node samples tested positive by culture, 162 (57.8% by IMS-PCR (targeting IS6110, and 191 (68.2% by IMS-MGIT culture. Twelve (6.9% of the 174 culture positive lymph node samples were not detected by either of the IMS-based methods. However, an additional 79 M. bovis positive lymph node samples (27 (13.1% VL and 52 (70.3% NVL were detected by the IMS-based methods and not by culture. When low numbers of viable M. bovis are present in lymph nodes (e.g. in NVLs of skin test reactor cattle decontamination prior to culture may adversely affect viability, leading to false negative culture results. In contrast, IMS specifically captures whole M. bovis cells (live, dead or potentially dormant which are not subject to any deleterious treatment before detection by PCR or MGIT culture. During this study only 2.7% of NVL lymph nodes tested culture positive, whereas 70.3% of the same samples tested M. bovis positive by the IMS-based tests. Results clearly demonstrate that not only are the IMS-based methods more rapid but they have greater detection sensitivity than the culture approach currently used for the detection of M. bovis infection in cattle. Adoption of the IMS-based methods for lymph node testing would have the potential to improve M. bovis detection in clinical samples.

El Sistema de información en la propiedad horizontal y su relación con los procesos contables

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Omar Javier Solano Rodríguez

2008-01-01

Full Text Available Los ambientes computacionales con los últimos desarrollos tecnológicos permitirán cambios fundamentales en las estructuras contables y operativas de los edificios y conjuntos residenciales sometidos al régimen de propiedad horizontal y de las organizaciones en general. En el campo de los sistemas de información los cambios serán trascendentales. El presente artículo ilustra un panorama general del sistema de información y su interrelación con los procesos contables; se identifica la estructura básica del procesamiento electrónico de datos (PED, e incluye sus características; proporcionando al lector la relación entre los procesos contables automatizados con los controles a aplicar. Para concluir presentando un enfoque genérico sobre el apoyo que puede y debe brindar el control interno informático, en la cual sus procesos contables se encuentran automatizados.

Acceleration of direct identification of S.aureus versus Coagulase Negative Staphylococci from blood culture material: a comparison of six bacterial DNA extraction methods

NARCIS (Netherlands)

Prof. Dr. C.A. Bruggeman; Drs H. Kreeftenberg; Dr. Ir. P.F.G. Wolffs; Drs A.J.M. Loonen; Dr. A.J.C. van den Brule, van den; Drs A.R. Jansz

2010-01-01

To accelerate differentiation between Staphylococcus aureus and Coagulase Negative Staphylococci (CNS), this study aimed to compare six different DNA extraction methods from 2 commonly used blood culture materials, i.e. BACTEC and Bact/ALERT. Furthermore, we analyzed the effect of reduced blood

Efeitos quantitativos da estocagem de sangue periférico nas determinações do hemograma automatizado Storage effects on peripheral blood samples as identified from automated hemograms

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Michele Dalanhol

2010-02-01

Full Text Available O presente trabalho avaliou as possíveis alterações em vários parâmetros do hemograma (contagem de eritrócitos totais, hematócrito, concentração de hemoglobina, volume corpuscular médio (VCM, hemoglobina corpuscular média (HCM, concentração da hemoglobina corpuscular média (CHCM, contagem total de leucócitos e contagem de plaquetas, frente a diferentes tempos de armazenamento da amostra em ambiente refrigerado a 4ºC e temperatura ambiente. As determinações foram realizadas através do contador automatizado Sysmex® XT2000i. As amostras sanguíneas foram obtidas de indivíduos sem alterações hematológicas diagnosticadas, sem clínica de doença, sendo considerados indivíduos com valores de referências hematológicos normais. Os resultados foram avaliados através de análise estatística descritiva e comparação de médias através da análise de variância (ANOVA. Os resultados dos parâmetros CHCM e contagem de plaquetas mostraram diferenças estatisticamente significativas para ambas as temperaturas de estocagem. Na temperatura ambiente, os parâmetros que também apresentaram diferença estatística significante foram para o hematócrito, VCM e índice de variação do tamanho dos eritrócitos ( RDW. Conclui-se, portanto, que os resultados dos hemogramas liberados pelo aparelho analisado podem ser satisfatórios quando realizados entre 12 a 24 horas após a coleta da amostra para a maioria dos parâmetros avaliados.This study evaluated possible alterations in different hematologic parameters [total erythrocyte count, hematocrit, hemoglobin concentration, mean corpuscular volume (MCV, mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH, mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MHCM, total leukocyte count and platelet count], of blood samples submitted to varied storage times at both 4ºC and at room temperature. The analyses were performed using a Sysmex XT2000i automated hematology analyzer. Written consent was obtained from donors

Inoculation of peritoneal dialysate fluid into blood culture bottles ...

African Journals Online (AJOL)

The aim of the study was to determine if direct inoculation of peritoneal fluid into Bactec blood culture bottles would improve the positive bacteriological yield compared with conventional techniques in continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) patients with peritonitis. All patients presenting with suspected peritonitis ...

Pretreatment of clinical specimens with sodium dodecyl (lauryl) sulfate is not suitable for the mycobacteria growth indicator tube cultivation method.

OpenAIRE

Pfyffer, G E; Welscher, H M; Kissling, P

1997-01-01

When using the Mycobacteria Growth Indicator Tube (MGIT), pretreatment of clinical specimens with N-acetyl-L-cysteine-NaOH is recommended by the manufacturer. Processing of clinical specimens (n = 1,000) with sodium dodecyl (lauryl) sulfate-NaOH resulted in both poor recovery and delayed mean time to detection of acid-fast bacilli. Values were comparable to those obtained on solid media.

Apparent culture-negative prosthetic valve endocarditis caused by Peptostreptococcus magnus

NARCIS (Netherlands)

van der Vorm, E. R.; Dondorp, A. M.; van Ketel, R. J.; Dankert, J.

2000-01-01

In two patients with prosthetic valve endocarditis due to Peptostreptococcus magnus, blood cultures in the BacT/Alert and BACTEC 9240 systems were signal negative. The capability of the BacT/Alert system to detect various Peptostreptococcus species was assessed. P. magnus and P. anaerobius could not

Direct identification by matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) from positive blood culture bottles: An opportunity to customize growth conditions for fastidious organisms causing bloodstream infections.

Science.gov (United States)

Sharma, Megha; Gautam, Vikas; Mahajan, Monika; Rana, Sudesh; Majumdar, Manasi; Ray, Pallab

2017-10-01

Culture-negative bacteraemia has been an enigmatic entity with respect to its aetiological agents. In an attempt to actively identify those positive blood cultures that escape isolation and detection on routine workflow, an additional step of MALDI-TOF MS (matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry) based detection was carried out directly from the flagged blood culture bottles. Blood samples from 200 blood culture bottles that beeped positive with automated (BACTEC) system and showed no growth of organism on routine culture media, were subjected to analysis by MALDI-TOF MS. Forty seven of the 200 (23.5%) bacterial aetiology could be established by bottle-based method. Based on these results, growth on culture medium could be achieved for the isolates by providing special growth conditions to the fastidious organisms. Direct identification by MALDI-TOF MS from BACTEC-positive bottles provided an opportunity to isolate those fastidious organisms that failed to grow on routine culture medium by providing them with necessary alterations in growth environment.

Rapid radiometric methods to detect and differentiate Mycobacterium tuberculosis/M. bovis from other mycobacterial species

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Siddiqi, S.H.; Hwangbo, C.C.; Silcox, V.; Good, R.C.; Snider, D.E. Jr.; Middlebrook, G.

1984-01-01

Rapid methods for the differentiation of Mycobacterium tuberculosis/M. bovis (TB complex) from other mycobacteria (MOTT bacilli) were developed and evaluated in a three-phase study. In the first phase, techniques for identification of Mycobacterium species were developed by using radiometric technology and BACTEC Middlebrook 7H12 liquid medium. Based on 14 CO 2 evolution, characteristic growth patterns were established for 13 commonly encountered mycobacterial species. Mycobacteria belonging to the TB complex were differentiated from other mycobacteria by cellular morphology and rate of 14 CO 2 evolution. For further differentiation, radiometric tests for niacin production and inhibition by Q-nitro-alpha-acetyl amino-beta-hydroxy-propiophenone (NAP) were developed. In the second phase, 100 coded specimens on Lowenstein-Jensen medium were identified as members of the TB complex, MOTT bacilli, bacteria other than mycobacteria, or ''no viable organisms'' within 3 to 12 (average 6.4) days of receipt from the Centers for Disease Control. Isolation and identification of mycobacteria from 20 simulated sputum specimens were carried out in phase III. Out of 20 sputum specimens, 16 contained culturable mycobacteria, and all of the positives were detected by the BACTEC method in an average of 7.3 days. The positive mycobacterial cultures were isolated and identified as TB complex or MOTT bacilli in an average of 12.8 days. The radiometric NAP test was found to be highly sensitive and specific for a rapid identification of TB complex, whereas the radiometric niacin test was found to have some inherent problems. Radiometric BACTEC and conventional methodologies were in complete agreement in Phase II as well as in Phase III

Detection and quantification of Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, Porphyromonas gingivalis and Streptococcus oralis in blood samples with different microbiological identification methods: An in vitro study.

Science.gov (United States)

Marin, María José; Ambrosio, Nagore; Virto, Leire; Diz, Pedro; Álvarez, Maximiliano; Herrera, David; Sanz, Mariano; Figuero, Elena

2017-02-01

Culture-based methods (culture broth bottles or lysis methods) have been the standard for detecting bacteremia. More recently, quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) was proposed as a more sensitive and specific test although none of them has been validated for the identification of periodontal pathogens (fastidious growing bacteria) in blood samples. To compare the ability to detect and quantify Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, Porphyromonas gingivalis and Streptococcus oralis (alone or in combination) in blood samples with three culture techniques [direct anaerobic culturing (DAC), haemo-culture (BACTEC), and lysis-centrifugation (LC)] and a non-culture dependent approach (qPCR) in an in vitro study. Blood samples from 12 periodontally healthy volunteers were contaminated with three concentrations [10 4 ,10 2 and 10 1 colony forming units (CFU)/mL] of A. actinomycetemcomitans, P. gingivalis and S. oralis, alone or in combination. Samples were analysed by DAC, BACTEC, LC and qPCR. Sensitivity, specificity, predictive values, kappa index and Lińs correlation coefficients were calculated. DAC, LC and qPCR were able to detect the three target species at all concentrations. An excellent concordance (correlation coefficient r: 0.92-1) was observed between DAC and the reference standard (sensitivity raging 93.33-100% and specificity 88.89-100%) values. BACTEC was not able to identify P. gingivalis in any of the performed experiments. qPCR provided false negative results for S.oralis. DAC showed the best results for the proper identification and quantification of A. actinomycetemcomitans, P. gingivalis and S. oralis, alone or in combination, in blood samples. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Characterization of multi-drug resistant ESBL producing nonfermenter bacteria isolated from patients blood samples using phenotypic methods in Shiraz (Iran

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Maneli Amin Shahidi

2015-10-01

Full Text Available Background and Aim: The emergence of  nonfermenter bacteria that are resistant to multidrug resistant ESBL  are  nowadays a principal problem  for hospitalized patients. The present study aimed at surveying the emergence of nonfermenter bacteria resistant to multi-drug ESBL producing isolated from patients blood samples using BACTEC 9240 automatic system in Shiraz. Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 4825 blood specimens were collected from hospitalized patients in Shiraz (Iran, and positive samples were detected by means of  BACTEC 9240 automatic system. The isolates  containing nonfermenter bacteria were identified based on biochemical tests embedded in the API-20E system. Antibiotic sensitivity  test was performed  and identification of  ESBL producing strains were done  using phenotypic detection of extended spectrum beta-lactamase producing isolates(DDST according to CLSI(2013 guidelines.   Results: Out of 4825 blood samples, 1145 (24% specimen were gram-positive using BACTEC system. Among all isolated microorganisms, 206 isolates were non-fermenting gram- negative bacteria. The most common non-fermenter isolates were Pseudomonas spp. (48%, Acinetobacter spp. (41.7% ,and Stenotrophomonas spp. (8.2%. Seventy of them (81.4% were  Acinetobacter spp. which were ESBL positive. Among &beta-lactam antibiotics, Pseudomonas spp. showed  the best sensitivity to piperacillin-tazobactam (46.5%.  Conclusion: It was found that  &beta-lactam antibiotics are not effective against more than 40% of Pseudomonas spp. infections and 78% Acinetobacter infections. Emergence of multi-drug resistant strains that are resistant to most antibiotic classes is a major public health problem in Iran. To resolve this problem using of practical guidelines is critical.

Evaluation of the MODS culture technique for the diagnosis of tuberculous meningitis.

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Maxine Caws

2007-11-01

Full Text Available Tuberculous meningitis (TBM is a devastating condition. The rapid instigation of appropraite chemotherapy is vital to reduce morbidity and mortality. However rapid diagnosis remains elusive; smear microscopy has extremely low sensitivity on cerebrospinal fluid (CSF in most laboratories and PCR requires expertise with advanced infrastructure and has sensitivity of only around 60% under optimal conditions. Neither technique allows for the microbiological isolation of M. tuberculosis and subsequent drug susceptibility testing. We evaluated the recently developed microscopic observation drug susceptibility (MODS assay format for speed and accuracy in diagnosing TBM.Two hundred and thirty consecutive CSF samples collected from 156 patients clinically suspected of TBM on presentation at a tertiary referal hospital in Vietnam were enrolled into the study over a five month period and tested by Ziehl-Neelsen (ZN smear, MODS, Mycobacterial growth Indicator tube (MGIT and Lowenstein-Jensen (LJ culture. Sixty-one samples were from patients already on TB therapy for >1day and 19 samples were excluded due to untraceable patient records. One hundred and fifty samples from 137 newly presenting patients remained. Forty-two percent (n = 57/137 of patients were deemed to have TBM by clinical diagnostic and microbiological criteria (excluding MODS. Sensitivity by patient against clinical gold standard for ZN smear, MODS MGIT and LJ were 52.6%, 64.9%, 70.2% and 70.2%, respectively. Specificity of all microbiological techniques was 100%. Positive and negative predictive values for MODS were 100% and 78.7%, respectively for HIV infected patients and 100% and 82.1% for HIV negative patients. The median time to positive was 6 days (interquartile range 5-7, significantly faster than MGIT at 15.5 days (interquartile range 12-24, and LJ at 24 days (interquartile range 18-35 days (P<0.01.We have shown MODS to be a sensitive, rapid technique for the diagnosis of TBM with

The efficacy of diagnostic battery in Pott′s disease: A prospective study

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Manoj Kumar

2014-01-01

Full Text Available Background: The diagnosis of Pott′s disease is mostly based on clinicoradiological observations substantiated by the bacterial culture, staining and histopathology. Since, no single technique is enough to conclude Pott′s disease in diagnosis, the present study was undertaken to correlate the clinicoradiological, microbiological, histopathological and molecular method to evaluate the effectiveness in diagnosis of Pott′s disease. Materials and Methods: 62 clinicoradiologically suspected cases of Pott′s disease were included in this study. The specimens for diagnostic work up were collected either during surgery or by computed tomography guided fine needle aspiration. All these specimens were tested for tuberculosis (TB through Ziehl-Neelsen (ZN microscopy, BACTEC culture, histopathology and polymerase chain reaction (PCR. The final diagnosis was established by the results of performed tests and clinicoradiological improvement of cases at the end of 6 months on anti tubercular treatment. Results: Out of 62 cases, 7 were excluded from this study as these were turned out to be neoplastic lesions on histopathology. Amongst remaining 55 cases, the TB was diagnosed in 39 (71% on histopathology, 37 (67.5% on PCR, 27 (49% on BACTEC culture and 20 (36.3% on ZN microscopy. Ultimately 45 cases were tested as positive and 10 were detected as negative for TB in combination of ZN microscopy, BACTEC culture and histopathology. PCR was positive in 37 of 45 cases and 10/55 cases remained negative. On clinical analysis of these 10 cases, it was noted that these were cases of relapse/poor compliance. The combination of PCR and histopathology was also shown positive for TB in 45 cases. Hence, the PCR showed a fair positive agreement (Κc = 0.63 against the combined results of all performed traditional methods. Conclusions: The combination of PCR and histopathology is a rapid and efficient tool for diagnosis of Pott′s disease.

Direct blood culturing on solid medium outperforms an automated continuously monitored broth-based blood culture system in terms of time to identification and susceptibility testing

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E.A. Idelevich

2016-03-01

Full Text Available Pathogen identification and antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST should be available as soon as possible for patients with bloodstream infections. We investigated whether a lysis-centrifugation (LC blood culture (BC method, combined with matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS identification and Vitek 2 AST, provides a time advantage in comparison with the currently used automated broth-based BC system. Seven bacterial reference strains were added each to 10 mL human blood in final concentrations of 100, 10 and 1 CFU/mL. Inoculated blood was added to the Isolator 10 tube and centrifuged at 3000 g for 30 min, then 1.5 mL sediment was distributed onto five 150-mm agar plates. Growth was observed hourly and microcolonies were subjected to MALDI-TOF MS and Vitek 2 as soon as possible. For comparison, seeded blood was introduced into an aerobic BC bottle and incubated in the BACTEC 9240 automated BC system. For all species/concentration combinations except one, successful identification and Vitek 2 inoculation were achieved even before growth detection by BACTEC. The fastest identification and inoculation for AST were achieved with Escherichia coli in concentrations of 100 CFU/mL and 10 CFU/mL (after 7 h each, while BACTEC flagged respective samples positive after 9.5 h and 10 h. Use of the LC-BC method allows skipping of incubation in automated BC systems and, used in combination with rapid diagnostics from microcolonies, provides a considerable advantage in time to result. This suggests that the usefulness of direct BC on solid medium should be re-evaluated in the era of rapid microbiology.

Direct detection of methicillin resistance in Staphylococcus aureus in blood culture broth by use of a penicillin binding protein 2a latex agglutination test.

Science.gov (United States)

Qian, Qinfang; Venkataraman, Lata; Kirby, James E; Gold, Howard S; Yamazumi, Toshiaki

2010-04-01

We studied the utility of performing a penicillin binding protein 2a latex agglutination (PBP-LA) assay directly on Bactec blood culture broth samples containing Staphylococcus aureus to rapidly detect methicillin resistance. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of this method were 94.1%, 97.5%, 98%, and 92.9%, respectively.

Direct Detection of Methicillin Resistance in Staphylococcus aureus in Blood Culture Broth by Use of a Penicillin Binding Protein 2a Latex Agglutination Test▿

OpenAIRE

Qian, Qinfang; Venkataraman, Lata; Kirby, James E.; Gold, Howard S.; Yamazumi, Toshiaki

2010-01-01

We studied the utility of performing a penicillin binding protein 2a latex agglutination (PBP-LA) assay directly on Bactec blood culture broth samples containing Staphylococcus aureus to rapidly detect methicillin resistance. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of this method were 94.1%, 97.5%, 98%, and 92.9%, respectively.

Direct identification by matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS from positive blood culture bottles: An opportunity to customize growth conditions for fastidious organisms causing bloodstream infections

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Megha Sharma

2017-01-01

Full Text Available Culture-negative bacteraemia has been an enigmatic entity with respect to its aetiological agents. In an attempt to actively identify those positive blood cultures that escape isolation and detection on routine workflow, an additional step of MALDI-TOF MS (matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry based detection was carried out directly from the flagged blood culture bottles. Blood samples from 200 blood culture bottles that beeped positive with automated (BACTEC system and showed no growth of organism on routine culture media, were subjected to analysis by MALDI-TOF MS. Forty seven of the 200 (23.5% bacterial aetiology could be established by bottle-based method. Based on these results, growth on culture medium could be achieved for the isolates by providing special growth conditions to the fastidious organisms. Direct identification by MALDI-TOF MS from BACTEC-positive bottles provided an opportunity to isolate those fastidious organisms that failed to grow on routine culture medium by providing them with necessary alterations in growth environment.

Limited role of culture conversion for decision-making in individual patient care and for advancing novel regimens to confirmatory clinical trials.

Science.gov (United States)

Phillips, Patrick P J; Mendel, Carl M; Burger, Divan A; Crook, Angela M; Crook, Angela; Nunn, Andrew J; Dawson, Rodney; Diacon, Andreas H; Gillespie, Stephen H

2016-02-04

Despite recent increased clinical trials activity, no regimen has proved able to replace the standard 6-month regimen for drug-sensitive tuberculosis. Understanding the relationship between microbiological markers measured during treatment and long-term clinical outcomes is critical to evaluate their usefulness for decision-making for both individual patient care and for advancing novel regimens into time-consuming and expensive pivotal phase III trials. Using data from the randomized controlled phase III trial REMoxTB, we evaluated sputum-based markers of speed of clearance of bacilli: time to smear negative status; time to culture negative status on LJ or in MGIT; daily rate of change of log10(TTP) to day 56; and smear or culture results at weeks 6, 8 or 12; as individual- and trial-level surrogate endpoints for long-term clinical outcome. Time to culture negative status on LJ or in MGIT, time to smear negative status and daily rate of change in log10(TTP) were each independent predictors of clinical outcome, adjusted for treatment (p limited role in decision-making for advancing regimens into phase III trials or in predicting the outcome of treatment for individual patients. REMoxTB ClinicalTrials.gov number: NCT00864383.

El Museo Imperial de Guerra en Londres

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Graciela Dacosta

2013-11-01

Full Text Available Generalidades sobre algunos tipos de materiales especiales existen en el “Imperial War Museum” de Gran Bretaña. Se observa: a una superposición de métodos manuales y automatizados para el procesamiento técnico de las colecciones no tradicionales; b diferentes grabados de desarrollo en la implementación de sistemas computarizados.

Una metodología para desarrollar aplicaciones usando programación por restricciones

OpenAIRE

Díaz Araya, Daniel; Ibáñez, Francisco S.; Forradellas, Raymundo Quilez

1999-01-01

En los últimos años la programación por restricciones ha automatizado la solución de problemas combinatorios complejos en muchos dominios tan diversos como planificación, asignación de recursos, optimización, etc. En este trabajo describiremos una metodología general que permite desarrollar programas utilizando la tecnología de restricciones.

Serum beta2-microglobulin values among healthy Brazilians using a DPC IMMULITE® assay Valores de beta2-microglobulina em brasileiros saudáveis usando o sistema automatizado DPC IMMULITE®

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Fabíola Branco Filippin

2005-02-01

éias. MÉTODOS: Noventa e seis doadores de sangue saudáveis foram avaliados e os valores de Sb2M foram medidos por método enzima imunoensaio quimiluminescente usando analisador automatizado IMMULITE®. RESULTADOS: Os valores de Sb2M, estabelecidos por método estatístico não paramétrico, apresentaram-se entre 1.05 e 3.9 mg/ml, sendo que o limite superior obtido foi maior que o relatado em outros trabalhos. CONCLUSÃO: Este estudo apresentou novos valores, indicando que existe uma diferença significante entre os limites de referência de Sb2M disponibilizados para o IMMULITE® e os encontrados no presente trabalho, evidenciando a ocorrência de variações importantes entre diferentes populações e que novos valores devem ser considerados para brasileiros.

Discrepancy between growth of Coccidioides immitis in bacterial blood culture media and a radiometric growth index

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ampel, N.M.; Wieden, M.A.

1988-01-01

Spherules of Coccidioides immitis grew readily after inoculation in vented trypticase soy broth, biphasic brain heart infusion media, and aerobic tryptic soy broth bottles used in a radiometric system (BACTEC). However, visible growth was not accompanied by a significant radiometric growth index. Growth of C. immitis can be visually detected in routine bacterial blood culture media while the radiometric growth index remains negative

Time to positivity and detection of growth in anaerobic blood culture vials predict the presence of Candida glabrata in candidemia: a two-center European cohort study.

Science.gov (United States)

Cobos-Trigueros, Nazaret; Kaasch, Achim J; Soriano, Alex; Torres, Jorge-Luis; Vergara, Andrea; Morata, Laura; Zboromyrska, Yuliya; De La Calle, Cristina; Alejo, Izaskun; Hernández, Cristina; Cardozo, Celia; Marco, Franscesc; Del Río, Ana; Almela, Manel; Mensa, Josep; Martínez, José Antonio

2014-08-01

This study shows the accuracy of exclusive or earlier growth in anaerobic vials to predict Candida glabrata in a large series of candidemic patients from two European hospitals using the Bactec 9240 system. Alternatively, C. glabrata can be predicted by a time to positivity cutoff value, which should be determined for each setting. Copyright © 2014, American Society for Microbiology. All Rights Reserved.

Innovacion en maquinas plantadoras y trasplantadoras

OpenAIRE

Garrido Izard, Miguel; Valero Ubierna, Constantino

2012-01-01

En los últimos tiempos, las técnicas empleadas en la maquinaria de siembra y trasplante han evolucionado principalmente por las vías de la racionalización y la automatización, lo cual se evidencia en los modelos que los diversos fabricantes han presentado en las últimas ferias. Las innovaciones se aprecian en varios elementos de las máquinas, desde el dosificador automatizado hasta el abresurco

Determinación de la susceptibilidad a drogas de primera línea en aislamientos de mycobacterium tuberculosis por la técnica del tubo indicador de crecimiento micobacteriano

OpenAIRE

Sierra Parada, Claudia Rocío; Sánchez Morales, Édgar Alberto; Henao Riveros, Sandra Consuelo; Saavedra Rodríguez, Alfredo

2010-01-01

Antecedentes. La aparición de aislamientos de Mycobacterium tuberculosis resistentes a los medicamentos ha hecho que se busquen métodos más rápidos y confiables para la determinación de la susceptibilidad a las drogas antituberculosas. Objetivo. Determinación de la susceptibilidad a drogas antituberculosas de primera línea en aislamientos de M. tuberculosis utilizando el método del tubo indicador de crecimiento micobacteriano (MGIT). Material y métodos. Se estudiaron 49 aislamientos...

Determining the susceptibility to first-line drugs in M. tuberculosis isolates using the mycobacteria growth indicator tube method

OpenAIRE

Sierra Parada, Claudia Rocío; Sánchez Morales, Edgar Alberto; Henao Riveros, Sandra Consuelo; Saavedra Rodríguez, Alfredo

2008-01-01

Antecedentes. La aparición de aislamientos de Mycobacterium tuberculosis resistentes a los medicamentos ha hecho que se busquen métodos más rápidos y confiables para la determinación de la susceptibilidad a las drogas antituberculosas. Objetivo. Determinación de la susceptibilidad a drogas antituberculosas de primera línea en aislamientos de M. tuberculosis utilizando el método del tubo indicador de crecimiento micobacteriano (MGIT). Material y métodos. Se estudiaron 49 aislamientos de M. tub...

DETERMINACIÓN DE LA SUSCEPTIBILIDAD A DROGAS DE PRIMERA LÍNEA EN AISLAMIENTOS DE MYCOBACTERIUM TUBERCULOSIS POR LA TÉCNICA DEL TUBO INDICADOR DE CRECIMIENTO MICOBACTERIANO

OpenAIRE

Claudia Rocío Sierra Parada; Édgar Alberto Sánchez Morales; Sandra Consuelo Henao Riveros; Alfredo Saavedra Rodríguez

2008-01-01

Antecedentes. La aparición de aislamientos de Mycobacterium tuberculosis resistentes a los medicamentos ha hecho que se busquen métodos más rápidos y confiables para la determinación de la susceptibilidad a las drogas antituberculosas. Objetivo. Determinación de la susceptibilidad a drogas antituberculosas de primera línea en aislamientos de M. tuberculosis utilizando el método del tubo indicador de crecimiento micobacteriano (MGIT). Material y métodos. Se estudiaron 49 aislamientos de...

Clinical and Diagnostic Aspects of Brucellosis and Antimicrobial Susceptibility of Brucella Isolates in Hamedan, Iran.

Science.gov (United States)

Torkaman Asadi, Fatemeh; Hashemi, Seyyed Hamid; Alikhani, Mohammad Yousef; Moghimbeigi, Abbas; Naseri, Zahra

2017-05-24

Current drug regimens for brucellosis are associated with relatively high rates of therapeutic failure or relapse. Reduced antimicrobial susceptibility of Brucella spp. has been proposed recently as a potential cause of therapeutic failure. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antibiotic resistance pattern of Brucella melitensis clinical isolates by E-test method in Hamadan, west of Iran. In a 15-month period, all patients with suspected brucellosis were enrolled. Blood specimens were collected for diagnosis of brucellosis by BACTEC system and serological tests. Antimicrobial susceptibility of clinical isolates to 7 antibiotics was assessed by the E-test method. One hundred forty-nine patients with brucellosis were evaluated. 38.3% of cultures of clinical samples were positive for BACTEC system, of which 91.2% were associated with a positive serological test result. No significant associations were found between serology and the culture method. All Brucella isolates were susceptible to doxycycline, streptomycin, gentamicin, ciprofloxacin, and moxifloxacin. However, decreased sensitivity to rifampin and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole was found in 35.1% and 3.5% of isolates, respectively. Because of the high rates of intermediate sensitivity to rifampin among Brucella isolates, this drug should be prescribed with caution. We recommend restricting the use of rifampin for treatment of brucellosis except as an alternative drug for special situations.

Diseño de un prototipo de una máquina AFP o Automated Fiber Placement

OpenAIRE

Conde Martínez, Darío Xavier

2017-01-01

Los materiales compuestos de fibra de carbono en matriz polimérica, tienen actualmente un amplio campo de aplicaciones, sobre todo en la industria aeronáutica, pero cada vez más en la aeroespacial, del transporte y militar. Los procesos de fabricación automatizados de materiales compuestos se han abierto camino en estos sectores gracias a su elevada productividad y eficacia. Estos consisten principalmente en encintar de manera automática, sobre un molde, tiras o bandas de fi...

Streptobacillus moniliformis endocarditis: Case report and review of literature

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

M. Madhubashini

2013-07-01

Full Text Available Rat bite fever is a rare infection and sometimes results in complications. This case report describes native mitral valve endocarditis in a 44-year-old male patient caused by Streptobacillus moniliformis. The diagnosis was confirmed by transesophageal echocardiography and blood cultures (BACTEC. The patient was treated with IV crystalline penicillin (6 weeks and gentamicin (2 weeks. The fundamental importance of a high index of suspicion, interpreting investigations and appropriateness of therapy are highlighted.

Performance of Gram staining on blood cultures flagged negative by an automated blood culture system.

Science.gov (United States)

Peretz, A; Isakovich, N; Pastukh, N; Koifman, A; Glyatman, T; Brodsky, D

2015-08-01

Blood is one of the most important specimens sent to a microbiology laboratory for culture. Most blood cultures are incubated for 5-7 days, except in cases where there is a suspicion of infection caused by microorganisms that proliferate slowly, or infections expressed by a small number of bacteria in the bloodstream. Therefore, at the end of incubation, misidentification of positive cultures and false-negative results are a real possibility. The aim of this work was to perform a confirmation by Gram staining of the lack of any microorganisms in blood cultures that were identified as negative by the BACTEC™ FX system at the end of incubation. All bottles defined as negative by the BACTEC FX system were Gram-stained using an automatic device and inoculated on solid growth media. In our work, 15 cultures that were defined as negative by the BACTEC FX system at the end of the incubation were found to contain microorganisms when Gram-stained. The main characteristic of most bacteria and fungi growing in the culture bottles that were defined as negative was slow growth. This finding raises a problematic issue concerning the need to perform Gram staining of all blood cultures, which could overload the routine laboratory work, especially laboratories serving large medical centers and receiving a large number of blood cultures.

Characterization of Mycobacterium paratuberculosis by gas-liquid and thin-layer chromatography and rapid demonstration of mycobactin dependence using radiometric methods

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Damato, J.J.; Knisley, C.; Collins, M.T.

1987-01-01

Thirty-six Mycobacterium paratuberculosis isolates of bovine, caprine, and ovine origins were evaluated by using gas-liquid chromatography (GLC), thin-layer chromatography (TLC), and BACTEC 7H12 Middlebrook TB medium in an effort to more rapidly differentiate this group of organisms from other mycobacteria. Bacterial suspensions (0.1 ml) were inoculated by syringe into 7H12 broth containing 2 micrograms of mycobactin P per ml and control broth without mycobactin P. Cultures were incubated at 37 0 C and read daily with a BACTEC Model 301. After 8 days of incubation, the growth index readings for the test broths containing mycobactin P were twice those of the control broths without mycobactin P. Sixty-five isolates of mycobacteria other than M. paratuberculosis were also examined. No difference was noted between the growth index readings of control and mycobactin-containing broths. Except for Mycobacterium avium-Mycobacterium intracellulare, TLC studies differentiated M. paratuberculosis from the other mycobacterial species tested. The GLC data reveal that all M. paratuberculosis isolates had a distinctive peak (14A) which was not found among M. avium-M. intracellulare complex organisms. These data indicate that 7H12 radiometric broth was able to rapidly demonstrate the mycobactin dependence of M. paratuberculosis and GLC and TLC procedures were capable of rapidly differentiating this organism from the other mycobacteria studied

Higiene urbana: enfermedades y accidentes laborales en el puesto de recolector de basura

OpenAIRE

Bayón, Jairo

2013-01-01

los trabajadores encargados de la recolección de basura tienen el fin de mantener los espacios públicos: veredas, calles y callejones libres de los de los desechos generados de manera cotidiana. Recolectan la basura para su desecho, desperdicios verdes para convertirlos en abono, y otros desperdicios para su reciclaje y nuevos usos. Aunque hoy en día la tecnología ofrece un pantallazo bastante diferente al los años anteriores debido a que cuenta con más equipo automatizado,...

Implementación del servicio de datos GPS de la Escuela de Topografía, Catastro y Geodesia

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Jorge Moya Zamora

2016-03-01

navegación y meteorología con el algoritmo de Hatanaka. Los dos procesos están totalmente automatizados y se ejecutan de forma diaria por medio de batch files. Con base en la puesta en operación del SDG, los archivos son procesados diariamente por uno de los centros de análisis de datos de SIRGAS y desde la semana 1501 GPS, los archivos de soluciones semanales generados por el DGFI de Alemania incorporan oficialmente los datos de la ETCG.

Diseño e implementación de maletas didácticas para el control de motores utilizando variadores de velocidad para el control de llenado.

OpenAIRE

Cevallos Tixi, Miguel Angel; Huiracocha Salavarría, Carlos Andrés

2015-01-01

En la actualidad en el sector industrial ecuatoriano se pueden encontrar diversos sistemas de control y mando, así como también diferentes fabricantes de equipos utilizados para los procesos automatizados y con ello aumentar la productividad y realizar la reducción de los costos y mejoras de tiempos de producción. La UNIVERSIDAD POLITÉCNICA SALESIANA está determinada a ofrecer a sus estudiantes una excelente educación, además de impartir el conocimiento de los sistemas modernos y actualiza...

Definición de una metodología para la construcción de Sistemas de Organización del Conocimiento a partir de un corpus documental en Lenguaje Natural

OpenAIRE

Sánchez Cuadrado, Sonia; Morato Lara, Jorge; Moreiro González, José Antonio; Marrero Llinares, Mónica

2007-01-01

Se propone una metodología para la construcción automatizada de KOS adaptable a diferentes entornos a partir de un corpus documental y unas aplicaciones de tratamiento textual que soporten todo el proceso de construcción y mantenimiento automatizado del KOS. Esta metodología se ha aplicado a diferentes entornos reales, comprobando que se trata de una metodología adaptable y obteniendo una reducción significativa de la intervención de expertos del dominio. A methodology to au...

Radiometric method for the rapid detection of Leptospira organisms

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Manca, N.; Verardi, R.; Colombrita, D.; Ravizzola, G.; Savoldi, E.; Turano, A.

1986-01-01

A rapid and sensitive radiometric method for detection of Leptospira interrogans serovar pomona and Leptospira interrogans serovar copenhageni is described. Stuart's medium and Middlebrook TB (12A) medium supplemented with bovine serum albumin, catalase, and casein hydrolysate and labeled with 14 C-fatty acids were used. The radioactivity was measured in a BACTEC 460. With this system, Leptospira organisms were detected in human blood in 2 to 5 days, a notably shorter time period than that required for the majority of detection techniques

UN SISTEMA DE SIMULACIÓN COMO ALTERNATIVA EN EL ENTRENAMIENTO DE HABILIDADES DEPORTIVAS ABIERTAS

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

F. García

2010-09-01

Full Text Available

RESUMEN

Este artículo describe un sistema de simulación computarizada como ampliación a anteriores trabajos en sistemas automatizados de control de la información. Se describen las características de este sistema que le permiten su aplicación al entrenamiento deportivos de hablidades motoras abiertas. Estas habilidades se desarrollan en un entorno variable que puede ser reproducido por una computadora a partir de imágeners digitalizadas. Los resultados de este sistema permiten considerarlo como un medio efectivo de entrenamiento.
PALABRAS CLAVE: Simulación computarizada, sistema automatizado, habilidades motoras abiertas.

ABSTRACT

This paper describes a computer-simulation system applied to sport sciences. This system is outcome of previous works in automatic systems of control of information. The features of this system and its applicability to learning of open motor skills are described. Open skills take place in an unpreditable environment and a computer is capable of recur it with digitalized images showed around the subjet in a laboratory. The results suggest that computer-simulation can be an effective way to train this motor skills.
KEY WORDS: Computer simulation, automatic system, open motor skill.

PLATAFORMA DE COMUNICAÇÃO SEM FIO APLICADA A SISTEMAS DE IRRIGAÇÃO

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Felipe Barbalho Rocha

2014-10-01

Full Text Available A utilização de novas tecnologias para projetos de automação é hoje uma tendência nos grandes centros urbanos. Porém, no campo, a agricultura carece do uso dessas tecnologias, inclusive, em sistemas e métodos de irrigação e de monitoramento de lavouras, dos quais são em sua grande maioria ultrapassados e inadequados. Consequentemente, isso afeta diretamente todo o setor econômico de uma sociedade. Com isso, faz-se necessário o desenvolvimento de um mecanismo automatizado de controle de irrigação, possibilitando uma maior eficiência e eficácia no processo de irrigação. Para tanto, o objetivo deste trabalho foi o desenvolvimento de um sistema de hardware e software capaz de tornar o processo de irrigação mais simples para o agricultor. Esse sistema consiste no controle e monitoramento da irrigação por meio de uma aplicação desenvolvida para computadores pessoais e através da internet, tendo em vista a mobilidade proporcionada para acesso do sistema em qualquer lugar do mundo. Além das vantagens práticas e econômicas, o sistema automatizado de irrigação possui um simples desenvolvimento, e utiliza materiais de baixo custo, o que torna viável sua implantação em grandes, médias e, inclusive, em pequenas lavouras.

Hybrid CNN+LSTM for face recognition in videos

OpenAIRE

Bellantonio, Marco

2016-01-01

El reconocimiento de caras, junto con la identificación de las acciones y gestos humanos, es en la actualidad una de las aplicaciones informáticas, más exitosas de análisis automatizado del comportamiento humano. Durante los últimos diez años aproximadamente, se ha convertido en un área muy popular de la investigación en computer vision y ha recibido mucha atención por parte de las organizaciones internacionales (Thumos, ChaLearn, etc). [1] El sistema de reconocimiento facial es una aplicació...

Análise comparativa da refração automática objetiva e refração clínica

OpenAIRE

Uras,Ricardo; Belfort Jr,Rubens; Hofling-Lima,Ana Luisa; Martins,Elisabeth Nogueira

2001-01-01

Objetivo: Este estudo buscou verificar se a prescrição adequada de lentes corretoras pode ser realizada exclusivamente com os dados fornecidos pela refração automática objetiva. Métodos: Todos os pacientes foram submetidos a anamnese, exame oftalmológico. A refração clínica, por meio de recursos propedêuticos clássicos não - automatizados objetivos e subjetivos para prescrição de lentes corretoras ("gold standard"), seguido por exame no refrator automático TOPCON KR 3000. Resultados: Foram es...

Automatic objective refraction and clinical refraction - a comparative analysis

OpenAIRE

Uras, Ricardo; Belfort Jr, Rubens; Hofling-Lima, Ana Luisa; Martins, Elisabeth Nogueira

2001-01-01

Objetivo: Este estudo buscou verificar se a prescrição adequada de lentes corretoras pode ser realizada exclusivamente com os dados fornecidos pela refração automática objetiva. Métodos: Todos os pacientes foram submetidos a anamnese, exame oftalmológico. A refração clínica, por meio de recursos propedêuticos clássicos não - automatizados objetivos e subjetivos para prescrição de lentes corretoras ("gold standard"), seguido por exame no refrator automático TOPCON KR 3000. Resultados: Foram es...

Planificación y diseño del centro comercial inteligente Monay Shopping

OpenAIRE

Buele Villa, Luis Enrique

2009-01-01

El proyecto descrito a continuación trata del diseño integro automatizado, de las instalaciones tanto eléctricas, de telecomunicaciones y circuito cerrado de televisión, del centro comercial MONAY SHOPPING, para ello se desarrollaran tres redes independientes que son: Red de energía eléctrica. Red de voz y datos mediante su cableado estructurado. Red de circuito cerrado de televisión para seguridad. La automatización consiste básicamente en totalizar unidades de control y regulación independi...

Sistemas de gestión de seguridad y salud en el trabajo en la comunidad andina : auditorías de verificación

OpenAIRE

Vásquez Zamora, Luis

2016-01-01

Objetivos: análisis comparativo de los principales sistemas de gestión de seguridad y salud tomando como referente el Sistema de la Comunidad Andina. Elaborar un sistema de auto auditorías automatizado y comparar sus resultados con auditorías externas realizadas por expertos del Instituto Ecuatoriano de la Seguridad Social (IESS) y conocer el grado de aceptación de empresarios y trabajadores de! sistema de auditorías. Metodología: Se comparó el sistema Andino, vigente en los países de Colo...

Caracterización y cuantificación autmatizadas de menas metálicas mediante visión artificial : proyecto cameva

OpenAIRE

Castroviejo, Ricardo; Catalina, Juan-Carlos; Bernhardt, Heinz-Juergen; Espí, Jose Antonio; Pirard, Eric; Samper, Josefina; Brea, Carolina; Segundo, Fernando; Locutura, Juan; Perez-Barnuevo, Laura; Sanchez, Lazaro; Fidalgo, Angel

2008-01-01

El proyecto CAMEVA (Caracterización Automatizada de Menas metálicas mediante Visión Artificial) pretende desarrollar un sistema automatizado capaz de llevar a cabo la identificación y cuantificación de los minerales presentes en muestras de menas metálicas para facilitar su posible aprovechamiento industrial. El sistema integra un microscopio óptico de reflexión motorizado, una rueda de filtros monocromadores situada ante la fuente luminosa, una cámara B/N de investigación y un ordenador, en ...

Aplicaciones, servicios y procesos distribuidos : Una visión para la construcción de software

OpenAIRE

Bazán, Patricia

2017-01-01

En los orígenes de la ciencia de la computación todo el énfasis estuvo puesto en desarrollar sistemas que automatizaran tareas que se hacían manualmente. Este era suficiente desafío. En la actualidad, se han automatizado muchas tareas y el gran desafío es cómo mejorar la capacidad de los sistemas para alcanzar nuevos requerimientos: agregar nuevas interfaces, combinar múltiples fuentes de datos en una sola, interactuar con dispositivos móviles y reemplazar viejas aplicaciones con nuevas. ...

Comparación del contaje plaquetario empleando diferentes metodologías, en pacientes con púrpura trombocitopénica y síndromes mielodisplásicos

OpenAIRE

Zabala, Norielis; Hann aoui, Erika

2013-01-01

Se valoró el contaje plaquetario de tres grupos de pacientes, de acuerdo al método manual de Brecher y Cronkite y al método automatizado, usando analizadores hematológicos con diferentes principios: Swelab ALFA (impedancia), Cell-dyn 3200 (citometría de flujo) y Beckman Coulter LH 500 (impedancia volumétrica, radiofrecuencia y dispersión de la luz láser). Los pacientes con púrpura trombocitopénica (PT) y síndromes mielodisplásicos (SMD), provionieron de la consulta de hematología del Hospital...

Localización, localización y localización: el manejo del espacio en la competencia entre centros comerciales

OpenAIRE

Carlos Garrocho

2005-01-01

En este texto de geografía comercial se presenta el diseño y la aplicación de un sistema fácil de usar e interactivo que apoya la toma de decisiones locacionales de las unidades comerciales que desean establecerse en grandes zonas urbanas. El sistema, llamado Sadelcom (Sistema Automatizado para Apoyar el Diseño de Estrategias Locacionales de Unidades Comerciales), se basa en un modelo de interacción espacial que permite generar diversos escenarios de planeación comercial. Acepta como insumos ...

Diseño y elaboración de un prototipo de monitor de signos vitales aplicando métodos no invasivos con comunicación de datos a dispositivos móviles

OpenAIRE

Tintín Durán, Edisson Ismael

2015-01-01

El documento consiste en el diseño y desarrollo de un prototipo de monitor de signos vitales que se comunique con dispositivos móviles Android, con el fin de proponer un método automatizado de la adquisición de datos sin la necesidad de la presencia de un personal de salud. The document consists of the design and development of a prototype Vital Signs Monitor to communicate with Android mobile devices, in order to propose an automated method of data acquisition without requiring the presen...

Artículo Científico - Diseño y construcción de un módulo didáctico de un sistema de automatización de llenado y envasado de sólidos, utilizando sensores fotoeléctricos, ultrasónicos, capacitivos, encoders, galgas extensiométricas y brazos robóticos, para el laboratorio de redes industriales y control de procesos de la Universidad de las Fuerzas Armadas ESPE Extensión Latacunga

OpenAIRE

Panchi Olivo, Sebastián Francisco; Herrera Sinchiguano, Washington Paúl

2015-01-01

En el presente trabajo se muestra la implementación de un módulo didáctico de llenado y envasado de sólidos, automatizado bajo una plataforma de software libre, que permite visualizar un proceso completo de producción similar a procesos de la industria alimenticia, facilitando al usuario el conocimiento y la práctica acerca de este tipo de procesos, con la ventaja e innovación de su desarrollo bajo una plataforma de software libre, la misma que conlleva reducción de costos en su implementació...

Radiometric method for the rapid detection of Leptospira organisms

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Manca, N.; Verardi, R.; Colombrita, D.; Ravizzola, G.; Savoldi, E.; Turano, A.

1986-02-01

A rapid and sensitive radiometric method for detection of Leptospira interrogans serovar pomona and Leptospira interrogans serovar copenhageni is described. Stuart's medium and Middlebrook TB (12A) medium supplemented with bovine serum albumin, catalase, and casein hydrolysate and labeled with /sup 14/C-fatty acids were used. The radioactivity was measured in a BACTEC 460. With this system, Leptospira organisms were detected in human blood in 2 to 5 days, a notably shorter time period than that required for the majority of detection techniques.

Frequency of endometrial tuberculosis in female infertility

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Yousaf, A.; Zaman, G.; Sultana, N.

2002-01-01

Objective: To determine the frequency of endometrial tuberculosis in infertility patients. Design: an observational analytical study. Place and Duration of Study: Military Hospital Rawalpindi and Armed Forces Institute of Pathology, Rawalpindi from August 1998 to April 1999. Subjects and Methods: Endometrial biopsies were taken from 50 cases of infertility and subjected to culture on BACTEC 460 TB instrument. Results: Tuberculous endometritis was found in 10 % (n=5) of cases. Conclusion: It was concluded that endometrial tuberculosis is not an infrequent cause of infertility in our setup. (author)

Evaluation of molecular detection of extrapulmonary tuberculosis and resistance to rifampicin with GeneXpert® MTB/RIF.

Science.gov (United States)

Marouane, C; Smaoui, S; Kammoun, S; Slim, L; Messadi-Akrout, F

2016-02-01

We aimed to evaluate the GeneXpert® MTB/RIF test for the diagnosis of extrapulmonary tuberculosis. The test simultaneously detects Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex and resistance to rifampicin. We analyzed 153 clinical samples collected in a tertiary hospital in Sfax, Tunisia, between 2013 and 2014. We performed the GeneXpert® test, a Ziehl-Neelsen and auramine-rhodamine staining, conventional culture on MGIT 960 and LJ media, and we tested the resistance to anti-tuberculosis drugs on MGIT 960 and LJ media for each sample. Diagnosis was based on clinical, radiological, microbiological, pathological, and therapeutic data. We considered that 59 patients out of 153 presented with tuberculosis. PCR was positive in 50 samples and all of these samples were susceptible to rifampicin. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of the GeneXpert® test were 84.7%, 96.8%, 94.3%, and 91%, respectively, compared with diagnosis. We observed a statistically significant difference between the direct test and the GeneXpert® test, and between culture and the GeneXpert® test. No statistically significant difference was observed between pathological results and the GeneXpert® test. Sensitivity of the GeneXpert® test was 87.5% in biopsies, 80% in pus and abscesses, and 66.7% in biological fluids. All strains were susceptible to rifampicin with culture and GeneXpert® test. The GeneXpert® test helped detect a higher proportion of M. tuberculosis complex. It does not replace conventional diagnostic methods but it is a useful addition to achieve better sensitivity and obtain rapid results. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

Acceleration of the direct identification of Staphylococcus aureus versus coagulase-negative staphylococci from blood culture material: a comparison of six bacterial DNA extraction methods.

Science.gov (United States)

Loonen, A J M; Jansz, A R; Kreeftenberg, H; Bruggeman, C A; Wolffs, P F G; van den Brule, A J C

2011-03-01

To accelerate differentiation between Staphylococcus aureus and coagulase-negative staphylococci (CNS), this study aimed to compare six different DNA extraction methods from two commonly used blood culture materials, i.e. BACTEC and BacT/ALERT. Furthermore, we analysed the effect of reduced blood culture incubation for the detection of staphylococci directly from blood culture material. A real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) duplex assay was used to compare the six different DNA isolation protocols on two different blood culture systems. Negative blood culture material was spiked with methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA). Bacterial DNA was isolated with automated extractor easyMAG (three protocols), automated extractor MagNA Pure LC (LC Microbiology Kit M(Grade)), a manual kit MolYsis Plus and a combination of MolYsis Plus and the easyMAG. The most optimal isolation method was used to evaluate reduced bacterial incubation times. Bacterial DNA isolation with the MolYsis Plus kit in combination with the specific B protocol on the easyMAG resulted in the most sensitive detection of S. aureus, with a detection limit of 10 CFU/ml, in BacT/ALERT material, whereas using BACTEC resulted in a detection limit of 100 CFU/ml. An initial S. aureus or CNS load of 1 CFU/ml blood can be detected after 5 h of incubation in BacT/ALERT 3D by combining the sensitive isolation method and the tuf LightCycler assay.

Comparative efficacies of amoxicillin, clindamycin, and moxifloxacin in prevention of bacteremia following dental extractions.

Science.gov (United States)

Diz Dios, P; Tomás Carmona, I; Limeres Posse, J; Medina Henríquez, J; Fernández Feijoo, J; Alvarez Fernández, M

2006-09-01

We evaluated the efficacies of oral prophylactic treatment with amoxicillin (AMX), clindamycin (CLI), and moxifloxacin (MXF) in the prevention of bacteremia following dental extractions (BDE). Two hundred twenty-one adults who required dental extractions under general anesthesia were randomly assigned to a control group, an AMX group, a CLI group, and an MXF group (the individuals in the drug treatment groups received 2 g, 600 mg, and 400 mg, respectively, 1 to 2 h before anesthesia induction). Venous blood samples were collected from each patient at the baseline and 30 s, 15 min, and 1 h after the dental extractions. The samples were inoculated into BACTEC Plus aerobic and anaerobic blood culture bottles and were processed in a BACTEC 9240 instrument. Subculture and the further identification of the isolated bacteria were performed by conventional microbiological techniques. The prevalences of BDE in the control group, AMX group, CLI group, and MXF group were 96, 46, 85, and 57%, respectively, at 30 s; 64, 11, 70, and 24%, respectively, at 15 min; and 20, 4, 22, and 7%, respectively, at 1 h. Streptococcus spp. were the most frequently identified bacteria in all groups (44 to 68%), with the lowest percentage being detected in the AMX group (44%). AMX and MXF prophylaxis showed high efficacies in reducing the prevalence and duration of BDE, but CLI prophylaxis was noneffective. As a consequence, MXF prophylaxis is a promising antibiotic alternative for the prevention of BDE when beta-lactams are not indicated.

Auditing smear microscopy results according to time to detection using the BACTEC™ MGIT™ TB system.

Science.gov (United States)

Elsaghier, A A F

2015-09-01

Smear microscopy is a rapid method for the identification of the most infectious patients with mycobacterial infection. Suboptimal smear microscopy may significantly compromise or delay patient isolation and contact tracing. A stringent method for auditing mycobacterial smear results is thus needed. This article proposes an auditing tool based on time to detection (TTD) of culture-positive samples using the automated BACTEC™ MGIT™ 960 TB system. In our study, sputum samples subjected to liquefaction and concentration before staining with a TTD of ≤ 13 days using the BACTEC system should be positive on smear microscopy.

Protótipo de um sistema de aquecimento de água para população de baixa renda usando energia solar e elétrica, com reaproveitamento de calor

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Marco Antônio Silva Pereira

2016-01-01

Full Text Available Este artigo consiste em uma pesquisa sobre os vários meios de aquecimento de água para o banho, buscando o uso de alternativas para viabilizar o acesso da população de baixa renda a esses benefícios. A ideia principal é fazer uma combinação dos vários sistemas existentes a fim de produzir um protótipo eficiente e de baixo custo. O protótipo constitui-se de um sistema de aquecimento solar, recuperador de calor e de um misturador de água automatizado. A representação do sistema foi obtida por meio de uma maquete do protótipo ecológico de chuveiro, englobando as diversas tecnologias estudadas.Palavras-chave: Aquecedor solar. Recuperador de calor. Misturador automatizado. Microcontrolador.Prototype of a water heating system for low-income population using solar energy and power, with reuse of heatAbstractThis paper consists of a survey on the various means of heating water for the bath, trying to use of alternatives to allow access of the low-income population. The main idea is to make a blend of various existing systems in order to produce an efficient and cost effective prototype. The prototype consists of a system of solar heating, heat recovery and an automated water mixer. The representation of the system was obtained through a model of the ecological prototype shower encompassing the several studied technologies.Keywords: Solar heating. Heat recovery. Automated mixer. Microcontroller.

Automatización de puestos de trabajo de accionamientos eléctricos

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Milagros Diez Rodríguez

2011-05-01

Full Text Available En el presente trabajo se muestra como fueron automatizados dos sistemas productivos existentes en el laboratorio de accionamiento eléctrico de la universidad de Camagüey para que se convirtieran en puestos de laboratorios acordes a las necesidades de la industria moderna. Los sistemas productivos fueron acoplados eléctricamente a un PLC, con esto, se les puede regular la velocidad y el régimen de trabajo con ayuda de convertidores de frecuencia. Por último el trabajo presenta la posibilidad de interactuar con un SCADA que supervisa en tiempo real con ayuda de una computadora personal diferentes tareas de automatización que se corresponden con simulaciones de problemas técnicos reales. Además se desarrolló un manual que permite la utilización del sistema de laboratorio automatizado de manera semipresencial lo que garantiza la docencia presente y futura.  This work shows two automated production systems in the electric drives laboratory at the university of Camagüey, to become laboratories sets, geared to the needs of modern industry. Production systems were electrically coupled to a PLC, so you can regulate speed and working regime using frequency converters. Finally the paper presents the possibility to interact with a SCADA which monitors the system in real time using a personal computer automation of different tasks that correspond to simulations of real technical problems. In addition, we developed a manual that allows the use of automated laboratory system in a manner which ensures blended teaching present and future.

Desarrollo de una metodología de evaluación de usabilidad de interfaces humano-máquina (IHM) para la mejora del Proceso de toma de decisiones en tareas de supervisión industrial

OpenAIRE

Hurtado Cortés, Luini Leonardo

2013-01-01

Ésta tesis propone, a partir de los métodos y herramientas para la monitorización y supervisión de procesos industriales automatizados, los fundamentos de la ergonomía cognitiva (Cañas y Waern, 2001) y los conceptos de usabilidad de sistemas interactivos (Benyon, 2013), el desarrollo, aplicación y validación de una metodología para la evaluación de la usabilidad de interfaces de sistemas de supervisión industrial. Inicialmente, se ha planteado una revisión de conceptos sobre cómo se conci...

Desarrollo de una célula robotizada de paletizado

OpenAIRE

Rodríguez Rodríguez, Iván

2017-01-01

No cabe duda de que, a lo largo de los años, la automatización ha ido cobrando cada vez más importancia en los procesos industriales hasta convertirse en una parte fundamental de los mismos. El afán por mejorar los tiempos de producción, reducir los costes y obtener mejores productos ha provocado que hoy en día, prácticamente cualquier proceso industrial que pueda estar sujeto a ser automatizado, lo sea. Con esta idea en mente, el campo de la automatización de procesos de cara a la formac...

Uso de água residuária de origem doméstica no cultivo da pimenta malagueta na Chapada do Apodi-RN

OpenAIRE

Dutra, Ian Crisóstomo Bezerra

2013-01-01

O aproveitamento agrícola das águas residuárias domésticas tratadas é uma alternativa diante da escassez hídrica no semiárido. A pesquisa objetivou analisar os efeitos da aplicação de água residuária de origem doméstica no sistema produtivo da pimenta malagueta. Para isso, uma área experimental de 744 m2 foi montada no assentamento Milagres em Apodi-RN, constituída por um decanto-digestor e um sistema de irrigação por gotejamento automatizado. A pimenta malagueta foi plantada em Cambissolo no...

Diseño de un sistema de control de procesos en una empresa textil

OpenAIRE

Pita Chávarri, Luis Alberto; Pita Chávarri, Luis Alberto

2005-01-01

El presente informe está basado en la experiencia desarrollada a través de los 23 años en que vengo laborando en una importante Empresa Textil, de los cuales los últimos 18 años me he desempeñado como Jefe del Departamento de Sistemas, y desde su creación he tenido la responsabilidad de organizado y proponer los proyectos de sistemas necesarios para efectuar una transición de procedimientos de trabajo manuales, hacia un manejo automatizado de la información en todas las áreas de la empresa, p...

Implementação em hardware de um sistema inteligente para detecção de plantas daninhas em plantações de soja utilizando máquinas de vetores de suporte e redes neurais artificiais

OpenAIRE

Caldas Júnior, Carlos Roberto Dutra [UNESP

2012-01-01

A presença de sistemas automatizados é cada vez mais comum para as pessoas. Seus exemplos vão desde máquinas de lavar, que executam praticamente todo o processo de lavagem e secagem de roupas, até linhas de produção em fábricas dos mais diversos produtos. Esses são exemplos de aplicações que exigem pouca interferência humana no processo, já que as etapas realizadas pelos sistemas são bem definidas e iterativas. Porém, outros tipos de processos podem exigir capacidade de discernimento daquele ...

Un bazar de Imágenes: Software libre/abierto, producción visual y creación colaborativa

OpenAIRE

Medina Cardona, Luis Fernando

2011-01-01

Las nuevas tecnologías y la producción visual están cada vez más cerca. El código de computador, el software y lo mediático convergen en plataformas donde la creación, producción y distribución conforman el mismo lenguaje digital, de manera opuesta a los soportes tradicionales. Por este motivo, el software es un componente fundamental que sirve como herramienta pero también como interfaz de conexión donde los contenidos son manejados como módulos en un flujo de producción automatizado. Est...

Automatización del control del cálculo de extracciones en la mina de la empresa niquelera Ernesto Che Guevara

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Arístides A. Legrá-Lobaina

2010-03-01

Full Text Available En el artículo se muestran los elementos fundamentales de un algoritmo cuyo objetivo es establecer el contenido y el orden de los procedimientos necesarios para realizar el control del cálculo de extracciones en la mina de la empresa Ernesto Che Guevara que explota, a cielo abierto, yacimientos lateríticos ferroniquelíferos en la región de Moa, Cuba. Asimismo se presenta el diseño de los diálogos informáticos que han automatizado el algoritmo en la aplicación informática Tierra.

Sistema de tanatología forense para la división médico legal III de Arequipa

OpenAIRE

Ochoa Maldonado, Gino

2010-01-01

El trabajo de investigación titulado "Sistema de Tanatología Forense para la División Médico Legal III de Arequipa". Se ha realizado en la ciudad de Arequipa con la finalidad de implementar un Sistema Automatizado, que facilite el trabajo diario que realiza la División Médico Legal III de Arequipa solucionando problemas referentes al manejo de información del área forense. Se ha considerado como población a los trabajadores de la División Médico Legal 111 de Arequipa, se utilizó como instrume...

Las listas de discusión electrónicas en bibliotecología y ciencias de la información

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Rodríguez Camiño, Reinaldo

1999-01-01

Se revisaron distintos servidores de información con el objetivo de conocer las listas de discusión electrónicas especializadas en bibliotecología y ciencias de la información. Se realizaron búsquedas en los servidores del Centro Nacional para el Intercambio Automatizado de Información (CENIAI), la Red Electrónica de Información para la Salud (INFOMED), la Red Universitaria del Ministerio de Educación Superior (REDUNIV) y la red de los Jóvenes Club de Computación (TINORED). A través de INTERN...

Evaluating the Auto-MODS Assay, a Novel Tool for Tuberculosis Diagnosis for Use in Resource-Limited Settings

Science.gov (United States)

Wang, Linwei; Mohammad, Sohaib H.; Li, Qiaozhi; Rienthong, Somsak; Rienthong, Dhanida; Nedsuwan, Supalert; Mahasirimongkol, Surakameth; Yasui, Yutaka

2014-01-01

There is an urgent need for simple, rapid, and affordable diagnostic tests for tuberculosis (TB) to combat the great burden of the disease in developing countries. The microscopic observation drug susceptibility assay (MODS) is a promising tool to fill this need, but it is not widely used due to concerns regarding its biosafety and efficiency. This study evaluated the automated MODS (Auto-MODS), which operates on principles similar to those of MODS but with several key modifications, making it an appealing alternative to MODS in resource-limited settings. In the operational setting of Chiang Rai, Thailand, we compared the performance of Auto-MODS with the gold standard liquid culture method in Thailand, mycobacterial growth indicator tube (MGIT) 960 plus the SD Bioline TB Ag MPT64 test, in terms of accuracy and efficiency in differentiating TB and non-TB samples as well as distinguishing TB and multidrug-resistant (MDR) TB samples. Sputum samples from clinically diagnosed TB and non-TB subjects across 17 hospitals in Chiang Rai were consecutively collected from May 2011 to September 2012. A total of 360 samples were available for evaluation, of which 221 (61.4%) were positive and 139 (38.6%) were negative for mycobacterial cultures according to MGIT 960. Of the 221 true-positive samples, Auto-MODS identified 212 as positive and 9 as negative (sensitivity, 95.9%; 95% confidence interval [CI], 92.4% to 98.1%). Of the 139 true-negative samples, Auto-MODS identified 135 as negative and 4 as positive (specificity, 97.1%; 95% CI, 92.8% to 99.2%). The median time to culture positivity was 10 days, with an interquartile range of 8 to 13 days for Auto-MODS. Auto-MODS is an effective and cost-sensitive alternative diagnostic tool for TB diagnosis in resource-limited settings. PMID:25378569

Optimising Mycobacterium tuberculosis detection in resource limited settings.

Science.gov (United States)

Alfred, Nwofor; Lovette, Lawson; Aliyu, Gambo; Olusegun, Obasanya; Meshak, Panwal; Jilang, Tunkat; Iwakun, Mosunmola; Nnamdi, Emenyonu; Olubunmi, Onuoha; Dakum, Patrick; Abimiku, Alash'le

2014-03-03

The light-emitting diode (LED) fluorescence microscopy has made acid-fast bacilli (AFB) detection faster and efficient although its optimal performance in resource-limited settings is still being studied. We assessed the optimal performances of light and fluorescence microscopy in routine conditions of a resource-limited setting and evaluated the digestion time for sputum samples for maximum yield of positive cultures. Cross-sectional study. Facility-based involving samples of routine patients receiving tuberculosis treatment and care from the main tuberculosis case referral centre in northern Nigeria. The study included 450 sputum samples from 150 new patients with clinical diagnosis of pulmonary tuberculosis. The 450 samples were pooled into 150 specimens, examined independently with mercury vapour lamp (FM), LED CysCope (CY) and Primo Star iLED (PiLED) fluorescence microscopies, and with the Ziehl-Neelsen (ZN) microscopy to assess the performance of each technique compared with liquid culture. The cultured specimens were decontaminated with BD Mycoprep (4% NaOH-1% NLAC and 2.9% sodium citrate) for 10, 15 and 20 min before incubation in Mycobacterium growth incubator tube (MGIT) system and growth examined for acid-fast bacilli (AFB). Of the 150 specimens examined by direct microscopy: 44 (29%), 60 (40%), 49 (33%) and 64 (43%) were AFB positive by ZN, FM, CY and iLED microscopy, respectively. Digestion of sputum samples for 10, 15 and 20 min yielded mycobacterial growth in 72 (48%), 81 (54%) and 68 (45%) of the digested samples, respectively, after incubation in the MGIT system. In routine laboratory conditions of a resource-limited setting, our study has demonstrated the superiority of fluorescence microscopy over the conventional ZN technique. Digestion of sputum samples for 15 min yielded more positive cultures.

Projecte bàsic d'una nau d'emmagatzematge intel·ligent al ZAL Prat de Llobregat

OpenAIRE

Moli Barrufet, Gemma; Genius Jimenez, Xavier

2009-01-01

El objetivo del presente proyecto es el análisis y estudio de la viabilidad de construcción de un almacén logístico nodal para la distribución de artículos deportivos y de ocio de una empresa de ventas en grandes superficies. Para el desarrollo de la justificación se han elegido dos alternativas de entre todas las posibles: Un almacén convencional de tres cuerpos para mercancías paletizadas en estanterías y un almacén automatizado con dos cuerpos de recepción y expedición más u...

“Prototipo de control de riego tecnificado aplicando la tecnología del arduino”

OpenAIRE

CAYO CABRERA, GUIDO HUMBERTO; UNIVERSIDAD NACIONAL DEL ALTIPLANO

2015-01-01

El riego por aspersión se aplica el agua en suelo asperjado, o fraccionando el caudal en gotas las mismas que humedecen el terreno al tiempo que alcanzan la superficie del mismo. Se trata de un método de riego mecanizado, que asegura un preciso control de la lámina de agua aplicada en función de las condiciones edafo-climáticas y de cultivo y además permite una adecuada tecnificación de la práctica del riego. La metodología propuesta es mediante el riego automatizado y controlado vía web, que...

Saúde mental e automação: a propósito de um estudo de caso no setor ferroviário

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Edith Seligmann-Silva

Full Text Available O propósito deste trabalho é enfocar algumas inter-relações entre Saúde Mental e as transformações contemporâneas do trabalho pelas mudanças técnicas, organizacionais e contextuais. Apresenta algumas características em um estudo de caso. O artigo examina os impactos da situação de trabalho em uma empresa ferroviária sobre controladores e maquinistas de um sistema computadorizado e automatizado. As implicações para a segurança de todo o sistema, inclusive para os passageiros, são também apontadas e discutidas.

Redução de carga orgânica recalcitrante de efluente de indústria gráfica por reação de fenton

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Frederico José de Vaz e Paiva

2009-01-01

A Casa da Moeda do Brasil (CMB) é uma empresa nacional, com mais de 300 anos de experiência na produção de valores e impressos de segurança. A produção de cédulas, realizada pelo Departamento de Cédulas (DECED), consiste de três etapas de impressão, off-set, calografia e tipografia, seguida de acabamento e embalagem semi-automatizado. A impressão calcográfica consome solução de limpeza, composta de soda cáustica e óleo sulfonado, para limpeza do cilindro de impressão, gerando um efluente líqu...

Changing patterns and trends of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis at referral centre in Northern India: A 4-year experience

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A K Maurya

2013-01-01

Full Text Available Purpose: India has a high burden of drug-resistant tuberculosis (TB, although there is little data on multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB. Although MDR-TB has existed for long time in India, very few diagnostic laboratories are well-equipped to test drug sensitivity. The objectives of this study were to determine the prevalence of MDR-TB, first-line drug resistance patterns and its changing trends in northern India in the 4 years. Materials and Methods: This was a prospective study from July 2007 to December 2010. Microscopy, culture by Bactec460 and p-nitro-α-acetylamino-β-hydroxypropiophenone (NAP test was performed to isolate and identify Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M. tb complex (MTBC. Drug sensitivity testing (DST was performed by 1% proportional method (Bactec460 for four drugs: Rifampicin, isoniazid, ethambutol and streptomycin. Various clinical and demographical profiles were evaluated to analyse risk factors for development of drug resistance. Results: We found the overall prevalence rate of MDR-TB to be 38.8%, increasing from 36.4% in 2007 to 40.8% in 2010. we found that the prevalence of MDR-TB in new and previously treated cases was 29.1% and 43.3% ( P < 0.05; CI 95%. The increasing trend of MDR-TB was more likely in pulmonary TB when compared with extra-pulmonary TB ( P < 0.05; CI 95%. Conclusions: we found a high prevalence (38.8% of MDR-TB both in new cases (29.1% and previously treated cases (43.3%.This study strongly highlights the need to make strategies for testing, surveillance, monitoring and management of such drug-resistant cases.

Trends of anti-tuberculosis drug resistance pattern in new cases and previously treated cases of extrapulmonary tuberculosis cases in referral hospitals in northern India

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A K Maurya

2012-01-01

Full Text Available Background: Drug-resistant tuberculosis is one of major current challenges to global public health. The transmission of resistant strains is increasing as a burden of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB patients in extra pulmonary tuberculosis (EPTB cases in India. Aim and Objectives: The aim was to study trends of anti-tuberculosis drug resistance pattern in new cases and previously treated cases of EPTB in referral hospitals in northern India. Study Design and Setting: A prospectively observational study and referral medical institutions in northern India. Materials and Methods: All EPTB specimens were processed for Ziehl Neelsen staining, BACTEC culture and BACTEC NAP test for Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex. All M. tuberculosis complex isolates were performed for radiometric-based drug susceptibility pattern against streptomycin, isoniazid, rifampicin and ethambutol using the 1% proportion method. Results: We found that 165/756 (20.5% isolates were identified as M. tuberculosis complex by the NAP test. We observed that 39.9% were resistant to first-line antitubercular drugs. The resistance rate was higher in previously treated patients: H (30.3%, R (16.3%, E (15.7% and S (16.3%. MDR-TB was observed in 13.4%, but, in new cases, this was 11.4% and 19.1% of the previously treated patients (P<0.05. Conclusion: MDR-TB is gradually increased in EPTB cases and predominant resistance to previous treated cases of EPTB. The molecular drug sensitivity test (DST method can be an early decision for chemotherapy in MDR-TB patients. The International Standards of TB Care need to be used by the RNTCP and professional medical associations as a tool to improve TB care in the country.

Detection of 123 bp fragment of insertion element IS6110 Mycobacterium tuberculosis for diagnosis of extrapulmonary tuberculosis

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A K Maurya

2012-01-01

Full Text Available Purpose: Extrapulmonary tuberculosis (EPTB is emerging problem in developing and developed countries. The diagnosis of EPTB in its different clinical presentations remains a true challenge. IS6110-based polymerase chain reaction (PCR is used for rapid identification and positivity rate of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex in clinical isolates of different sites of EPTB. The present study was carried out to study the prevalence of M. tuberculosis complex in clinical isolates of EPTB at tertiary care centres in Lucknow. Materials and Methods: Seven hundred fifty-six specimens were collected from the suspected cases of EPTB which were processed for Mycobacteria by Ziehl Neelson (ZN staining and BACTEC culture. All the specimens were also processed for IS6110-based PCR amplification with primers targeting 123 bp fragment of insertion element IS6110 of the M. tuberculosis complex. Results: Of these 756 specimens, 71(9.3% were positive for acid fast bacilli (AFB by ZN staining, 227(30.1% were positive for mycobacteria by BACTEC culture and IS6110 PCR were positive for M. tuberculosis complex in 165 (20.7% isolates. We found a significant difference in sensitivities of different tests (P<0.05. Conclusions: This study reveals the positivity of M. tuberculosis complex in clinical isolates of EPTB case in tertiary care hospitals in Northern India. 72.7% of M. tuberculosis complex was confirmed by IS6110-PCR in culture isolates from different sites of EPTB. The high prevalence of the M. tuberculosis complex was seen in lymph node aspirate and synovial fluid. However, utility of PCR may play a potentially significant role in strengthening the diagnosis of EPTB especially targeting IS6110.

Propuesta para la optimización de asientos catalográficos en catálogos en línea de primera generación

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Jiménez Pelayo, Jesús J.

1997-03-01

Full Text Available Development and consolidation of automated environment in libraries affect specially the capacity of the present cataloguing standards: they are in question both technologically and economically. Some agencies and professionals claim for an urgent reevaluation and/or modification of those standards in order to suit them in a synchronized way to the new environment and its needs. The following proposal for the optimization of first generation online catalogues tries to unify the different institutional projects for establishment of simplified ISBD standards and MARC formats, as well as the results of occasional studies and researches on cataloguing codification. A feasible solution of immediate application for definitive transition from card catalogue lo automated catalogue is offered.

El desarrollo y consolidación de los entornos automatizados en el ámbito de las bibliotecas afecta de manera decisiva a la funcionalidad de los estándares catalográficos vigentes y los cuestiona tanto tecnológica como económicamente. Algunas agencias y profesionales reclaman una urgente reevaluación y/o modificación de dichos estándares con objeto de adaptarlos, de forma sincronizada, al nuevo marco y sus necesidades. La siguiente propuesta para la optimización de catálogos en línea de primera generación surge de un intento de aunar los distintos proyectos institucionales en curso para el establecimiento de normas ISBD y formatos MARC simplificados, así como los resultados de estudios e investigaciones puntuales en el campo de la codificación catalográfica. Se pretende con ello ofrecer una solución viable y de aplicación inmediata a la transición definitiva catálogo manual-catálogo automatizado.

Actividades prácticas del grupo GEIO automatizadas en la Celda Manufactura Flexible

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Carlos Mauricio Zuluaga-Ramírez

2014-01-01

Full Text Available El artículo expone los resultados de un proyecto que buscó la articulación de las investigaciones realizadas por el Laboratorio de Manufactura Flexible y el Grupo en la Enseñanza de la Investigación de Operaciones GEIO, pertenecientes a la Facultad de Ingeniería Industria de la Universidad Tecnológica de Pereira. Su objetivo principal consistió en permitir a los estudiantes la utilización de espacios de investigación en donde se pudieran generar trabajos para facilitar la interrelación y aplicación de conceptos vistos en diversas materias. Para alcanzar el objetivo, se hizo una adaptación de las lúdicas generadas desde el grupo GEIO, a través de la utilización de los centros automatizados y el software especializado del laboratorio de manufactura flexible, creando así prácticas en donde se unieron de forma sistémica los beneficios brindados desde la lúdica, como son aplicación, contextualización, vivencia de conceptos y los ofrecidos por la celda de manufactura flexible como la automatización de procesos, manejo del lenguaje de programación y uso de tecnologías para mejorar los sistemas productivos. La integración de estos espacios generadores de conocimiento aportó a la formación de competencias técnicas en los estudiantes de Ingeniería Industrial, ya que pudieron tomar un proceso productivo básico poco automatizado, proveniente de un micromundo generado a través de la lúdica y llevarlo a un plano profesional y tecnológico, mecanizándolo con el uso de maquinaria y herramienta especializada empleada en las industrias reales.

LÓGICA DEL NEGOCIO DE LA EMPRESA EN UNA CAPA INTERMEDIA

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Daymel Marrero Viñas

2002-05-01

Full Text Available

El trabajo que se presenta sugiere dos maneras de afrontar el desarrollo de un sistema informativo para la empresa en un ambiente colaborativo. Teniendo en cuenta la dinámica actual y las necesidades de mantenimiento inmediato a los sistemas automatizados. Se comparan los modelos de dos y trescapas para la arquitectura cliente-servidor haciendo especial énfasis en las ventajas del modelo de tres capas por su facilidad de extensión a diferentes entornos de desarrollo de la aplicación cliente sin necesidad de grandes variaciones en los procesos de manipulación de los datos.

Diseño e Implementación de Sistemas de Control de Nivel para Cinco Tanques de Bombeo de Hidrocarburos con Sensoramiento tipo Radar en la Estación Shushufindi - EP PETROECUADOR

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Hernán Montenegro

2012-11-01

Full Text Available El presente artículo fue desarrollado para su implementación en fases según el Ciclo de Deming, desarrollando un sistema de control de nivel on-off con histéresis en los tanques de almacenamiento de hidrocarburos en la Estación Cabecera Shushufindi del Poliducto Shushufindi-Quito de EP Petroecuador, teniendo como base de pruebas la Estación Osayacu del mismo poliducto. Ademas se diseño un sistema totalmente automatizado mediante un control PID como una posible solución al proceso paulatino de modernización de la planta, junto con una propuesta de interfaz humano-maquina (HMI siguiendo normas ergonómicas de diseño internacional.

Quantitative analysis of Terminal Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism (T-RFLP microbial community profiles: peak height data showed to be more reproducible than peak area Análise quantitativa de perfis de T-RFLP de comunidades microbianas: dados de altura de picos mostraram-se mais reprodutíveis do que os de área

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Roberto A. Caffaro-Filho

2007-12-01

Full Text Available Terminal Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism (T-RFLP is a culture-independent fingerprinting method for microbial community analysis. Profiles generated by an automated electrophoresis system can be analysed quantitatively using either peak height or peak area data. Statistical testing demontrated that peak height data showed to be more reproducible than peak area data.Terminal Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism (T-RFLP é um método molecular, independente de cultivo, para análise de comunidades microbianas. Perfis gerados por um sistema automatizado de eletroforese podem ser analisados quantitativamente usando dados de altura ou área dos picos. Os dados de altura mostraram-se mais reprodutíveis do que os de área.

Intravenous amoxicillin/clavulanate for the prevention of bacteraemia following dental procedures: a randomized clinical trial.

Science.gov (United States)

Limeres Posse, J; Álvarez Fernández, M; Fernández Feijoo, J; Medina Henríquez, J; Lockhart, P B; Chu, V H; Diz Dios, P

2016-07-01

Although controversy exists regarding the efficacy of antibiotic prophylaxis for patients at risk of infective endocarditis, expert committees continue to publish recommendations for antibiotic prophylaxis regimens. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of four antimicrobial regimens for the prevention of bacteraemia following dental extractions. The study population included 266 adults requiring dental extractions who were randomly assigned to the following five groups: control (no prophylaxis); 1000/200 mg of amoxicillin/clavulanate intravenously; 2 g of amoxicillin by mouth; 600 mg of clindamycin by mouth; and 600 mg of azithromycin by mouth. Venous blood samples were collected from each patient at baseline and at 30 s, 15 min and 1 h after dental extractions. Samples were inoculated into BACTEC Plus culture bottles and processed in the BACTEC 9240. Conventional microbiological techniques were used for subcultures and further identification of the isolated bacteria. The trial was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov with ID number NCT02115776. The incidence of bacteraemia in the control, amoxicillin/clavulanate, amoxicillin, clindamycin and azithromycin groups was: 96%, 0%, 50%, 87% and 81%, respectively, at 30 s; 65%, 0%, 10%, 65% and 49% at 15 min; and 18%, 0%, 4%, 19% and 18% at 1 h. Streptococci were the most frequently identified bacteria. The percentage of positive blood cultures at 30 s post-extraction was lower in the amoxicillin/clavulanate group than in the amoxicillin group (P dental extractions was undetectable with amoxicillin/clavulanate prophylaxis. Alternative antimicrobial regimens should be sought for patients allergic to the β-lactams. © The Author 2016. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the British Society for Antimicrobial Chemotherapy. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH ODONTOGENIC BACTERAEMIA IN ORTHODONTIC PATIENTS.

Science.gov (United States)

Umeh, O D; Sanu, O O; Utomi, I L; Nwaokorie, F O

2016-01-01

Various researches have investigated factors associated with the prevalence and intensity of bacteraemia following oral procedures including orthodontic procedures. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of age, gender, plaque and gingival indices on the occurrence of odontogenic bacteraemia following orthodontic treatment procedures. Orthodontic Clinic, Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), Lagos , Nigeria. Using the consecutive, convenience sampling method, a total of 100 subjects who met the inclusion criteria were recruited for the study and peripheral blood was collected before and again within 2 minutes of completion of orthodontic procedures for microbiologic analysis using the BACTEC automated blood culture system and the lysis filtration methods of blood culturing. The subjects were randomly placed in one of four orthodontic procedures investigated: alginate impression making (Group I), separator placement (Group II), band cementation (Group III) and arch wire change (Group IV). Plaque and gingival indices were assessed using the plaque component of the Simplified Oral Hygiene Index (OHI-S) (Greene & Vermillion) and Modified gingival index (Lobene) respectively before blood collection. Spearman Point bi-serial correlations and logistic regression statistics were used for statistical evaluations at p orthodontic treatment procedures of 16% and 28% were observed respectively using the BACTEC and lysis filtration methods. A statistically significant increase in the prevalence of bateraemia was observed following separator placement (p=0.016). An increase in age, plaque index scores and modified gingival index scores of the subjects were found to be associated with an increase in the prevalence of bacteraemia following orthodontic treatment procedures, with plaque index score showing the strongest correlation. Separator placement was found to induce significantly highest level of bacteraemia. Meticulous oral hygiene practice and the use of 0

Radiometric studies on the oxidation of (I-14C) fatty acids by drug-susceptible and drug-resistant mycobacteria

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Camargo, E.E.; Kopajtic, T.M.; Hopkins, G.K.; Cannon, N.P.; Wagner Junior, H.N.

1987-01-01

A radiometric assay system has been used to study oxidation patterns of (l - 14 C) fatty acids by drug-susceptible and drug-resistant organisms of the genus Mycobacterium (M. tuberculosis - H 37 Rv and Erdman, M. bovis, M. avium, M. intracellulare, M.Kansasii and M. chelonei). The organisms were inoculated in sterile reaction vials containing liquid 7H9 medium, 10% ADC enrichment and 1.0 uli of one of the (l- 14 C) fatty acids (butyric, hexanoic, octanoic, decanoic, lauric, myristic, palmitic, stearic, oleic, linoleic, linolenic). Vials were incubated at 37 0 C and the 14 CO 2 envolved was measured daily for 3 days with a Bactec R-301 instrument. (M.A.C.) [pt

Determinação espectrofotométrica de selênio em rações para animais empregando análise por injeção em fluxo

OpenAIRE

Rejane Mara Frizzarin

2008-01-01

Na presente dissertação foi desenvolvido um procedimento automático para a determinação de selênio em rações para animais doméstico digeridas em meio ácido. O método automatizado foi baseado no efeito catalítico do selênio(IV) na reação de sulfato de ferro amoniacal com EDTA em meio contendo NaNO3. O módulo de análise foi baseado no processo de multicomutação em fluxo. Tendo em vista que reação tem cinética lenta, o módulo de análise foi projetado com seis bobinas de reação acopladas em paral...

Comparing in vitro activity of tigecycline by using the disk diffusion test, the manual microdilution method, and the VITEK 2 automated system Comparación de la actividad in vitro de la tigeciclina mediante la prueba de difusión con disco, el método de microdilución manual y el sistema automatizado Vitek 2

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A. L. Leal Castro

2010-09-01

Full Text Available Tigecycline is a broad spectrum antibiotic having activity against multiresistant isolates. In vitro susceptibility testing is difficult to perform with the use of traditional microbiological techniques. The aim of this study was to evaluate the disk diffusion test with three different Mueller-Hinton agar brands, and the Vitek 2 automated system in comparison with the standard broth microdilution method against 200 gram-negative isolates (Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Enterobacter cloacae, Serratia marcescens and Acinetobacter baumannii. Among Enterobacteriaceae, the Becton Dickinson agar had the lowest rate of minor (32.5% and major errors (3.8%. No very major errors were found. For A. baumanni, the rate of minor and major errors was lower. A high rate of agreement (94% was found between the broth microdilution method and the Vitek 2 system. Our results show that there are important differences between agars used for the disk diffusion test, and that Vitek 2 is a valid tool for susceptibility testing in clinical laboratories.La tigeciclina es un antibiótico de amplio espectro con actividad frente a bacterias multirresistentes. Existen dificultades en la determinación de la actividad in vitro a través de las técnicas microbiológicas convencionales. El objetivo del estudio fue evaluar tres marcas diferentes de medio agar Mueller-Hinton para utilizar en el método de difusión con disco y el método automatizado Vitek 2, y compararlos con la prueba tradicional de microdilución manual (Paneles Trek frente a 200 aislamientos de microorganismos gram negativos (Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Enterobacter cloacae, Serratia marcescens y Acinetobacter baumannii. Para el grupo de las enterobacterias, el medio con mejor desempeño fue el producido por Becton Dickinson, que tuvo 32,5% de errores menores y 3,8% de errores mayores. No se presentaron errores mayores con ningún medio. Se encontró una alta concordancia (94% entre el

Aplicación de inteligencia artificial en sistemas automatizados de producción

OpenAIRE

Llata García, José Ramón; González Sarabia, Esther; Fernández Pérez, Dámaso; Arce Hernando, Jesús Antonio; Pérez Oria, Juan María

2000-01-01

“Soy un gigante tan gigante que puedo grabar una rosa en la uña de un niño recién nacido”. Para solucionar el problema el personaje de García Lorca puede emplear diferentes métodos o múltiples paradigmas, como haría un sistema de inteligencia artificial. La inteligencia artificial es “simplemente” la transferencia de la inteligencia a las máquinas, es decir que el computador haga cosas inteligentes. Sin embargo la inteligencia humana es una función tan compleja que los científicos están solo ...

Desarrollo de un sistema automatizado para mediciones de espectroscopía óptica

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Esperanza Purón Sopeña

2011-03-01

Full Text Available Normal 0 21 false false false MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 El presen   Normal 0 21 false false false MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 st1:*{behavior:url(#ieooui } /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Tabla normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0cm; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ansi-language:#0400; mso-fareast-language:#0400; mso-bidi-language:#0400;} El presente artículo resume la labor investigativa que permitió la automatización de un sistema de medición de espectroscopía óptica. El trabajo se desarrolló en el Instituto de Ciencia y Tecnología de los Materiales, IMRE, de la Universidad de La Habana. Se describe la adaptación efectuada al monocromador LOMO MDR-4 que permitió recuperar la capacidad de trabajo automático de su sistema de posicionamiento. Se aborda el desarrollo del circuito de alimentación que hizo posible el control de dicho monocromador mediante una PC a través de la tarjeta de adquisición de datos NI-USB6008. Aparece reflejada la implementación del instrumento virtual, desarrollado en Labview 7.1, que garantiza el sincronismo de todos los componentes del sistema de medición y la interacción del usuario con dicho sistema desde la PC. Normal 0 21 false false false MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 El presen  

The sensitivity of direct identification from positive BacT/ALERT™ (bioMérieux) blood culture bottles by matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry is low.

Science.gov (United States)

Szabados, F; Michels, M; Kaase, M; Gatermann, S

2011-02-01

Recently, matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) has been presented as a novel method for the direct identification of bacteria from positive blood culture bottles. The rate of the MALDI TOF MS-based identification in the present study from positive BacT/ALERT (bioMérieux, Marcy l'Etoile, France) blood culture bottles was 30%, which is far below the previously reported sensitivities using the BACTEC (Becton Dickinson, Franklin Lakes, NJ, USA) system. We also found evidence that the Biotyper algorithm did not identify a second pathogen in cases of positive BacT/ALERT blood culture bottles containing two different species. © 2010 The Authors. Journal Compilation © 2010 European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases.

Detection of group D and viridans streptococci in blood by radiometric methods

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Beckwith, D.G.

1979-01-01

A prospective study was conducted to evaluate the radiometric detection of group D and viridans streptococci in blood, using three media preparations, Bactec 6A and 6B isotonic media and 8B hypertonic medium. All enterococci tested were detected by the 6A and 6B media. However, the 6A medium failed to detect 76% of the Streptococcus bovis isolates and 57% of the viridans streptococci, whereas all S. bovis isolates and 95% of the viridans streptococci were detected with the 6B formulation. No improvement in detection was noted in comparing the 6B and the 8B hypertonic media. The importance of adequate detection of this group of organisms, especially in patients with endocarditis, is discussed

BiomaSoft: sistema informático para el monitoreo y evaluación de la producción de alimentos y energía. Parte I

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J. R Quevedo

Full Text Available La producción integrada de alimentos y energía en Cuba exige procesar una diversa y voluminosa información para tomar decisiones locales, sectoriales y nacionales, con el propósito de incidir en políticas públicas, por lo que es necesario el apoyo de sistemas automatizados que faciliten el monitoreo y evaluación (ME de la producción integrada de alimentos y energía en municipios cubanos. El objetivo de esta investigación fue identificar las herramientas de diseño del sistema informático BiomaSoft y contextualizar su entorno de aplicación. La metodología de desarrollo de software fue RUP (Proceso Racional Unificado, del inglés Rational Unified Process, con UML (Lenguaje Unificado de Modelado, del inglés Unified Modeling Language como lenguaje de modelado y PHP (Pre-Procesador de Hipertexto, del inglés Hypertext Pre-Processor como lenguaje de programación. El entorno se conceptualizó mediante un modelo de dominio y se especificaron los requisitos funcionales y no funcionales que se debían cumplir, así como el Diagrama de Casos de Uso del sistema, con la descripción de actores. Para el despliegue de BiomaSoft se concibió una configuración basada en dos tipos de nodos físicos (un servidor web y ordenadores clientes, en los municipios que participan en el proyecto «La biomasa como fuente renovable de energía para el medio rural cubano» (BIOMAS-CUBA. Se concluye que el monitoreo y evaluación de la producción integrada de alimentos y energía en las condiciones cubanas puede ser realizado mediante el sistema automatizado BiomaSoft, y a este propósito contribuye la identificación de las herramientas para su diseño y la contextualización de su entorno de aplicación.

Potenciais aplicações da Inteligência Artificial na Ciência da Informação Las posibles aplicaciones de la Inteligencia Artificial en Ciencias de la Información

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Agnaldo Lopes Martins

2010-09-01

Full Text Available Pretende contribuir com as pesquisas em Ciência da Informação (CI, mais especificamente com aqueles profissionais e pesquisadores envolvidos em atividades que circundam o campo do tratamento digital da informação. Desmistifica, tipifica e exemplifica o uso da Inteligência Artificial em apoio ou substituição ao processamento, baseado na programação algorítmica convencional. Discute as principais técnicas de Inteligência Artificial (IA utilizadas atualmente, por meio de embasamento conceitual e tecnológico. Em seguida apresenta vários possíveis usos da Inteligência Artificial pela Ciência da Informação na resolução de problemas atualmente difíceis de serem tratados tanto pelo processamento manual quanto automatizado.

LA LIBERTAD, EL SUEÑO PERENNE

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Jesús Antonio Díaz Labarca

2006-07-01

Full Text Available En este ensayo, se pretende hacer una interpretación del concepto de libertad, según los principios de Herbert Marcuse. La teoría marcusiana no concibe la posibilidad de la existencia de la libertad en el sistema capitalista. Es necesario transformar la sociedad para que sea pacificada, y su proceso productivo sea automatizado de tal manera que se libere la fuerza física del hombre del trabajo alienado. El tiempo libre es la conclusión necesaria de la libertad. La “androgenización” de la actividad humana determinará la condición de la relación entre el hombre y la mujer. La mujer deberá aportar su bondad, solidaridad, ternura, etc. Para que se produzca la “feminización” de la sociedad humana.

Anti-tuberculosis lupane-type isoprenoids from Syzygium guineense Wild DC. (Myrtaceae stem bark

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I.A. Oladosu

2017-12-01

Full Text Available Plant derived isoprenoids commonly called terpenoids, are not only useful as chemosytemic markers but are increasingly attracting attention in the development of newer drugs for the treatment of multi-drug resistant tuberculosis. Anti-tuberculosis activity guided solvent fractionation and chromatographic separation of the chloroform extract of S. guineense stem bark resulted in the isolation of two bioactive 3-β-hydroxylupane-type isoprenoids: betulinic acid methylenediol ester (1 (MIC; 0.15 mg/mL and betulinic acid (2 (MIC; 0.60 mg/mL. The structures of the isolated compounds were elucidated using spectroscopic techniques. The antituberculosis assay was done using the Mycobacterium Growth Indicator Tube (MGIT method. This is the first report of the isolation of the anti-tuberculosis constituents of S. guineense and its potentials for the development of drug leads for the treatment of tuberculosis thus validating its ethno-medicinal uses.

First cultivation and characterization of Mycobacterium ulcerans from the environment.

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Françoise Portaels

Full Text Available BACKGROUND: Mycobacterium ulcerans disease, or Buruli ulcer (BU, is an indolent, necrotizing infection of skin, subcutaneous tissue and, occasionally, bones. It is the third most common human mycobacteriosis worldwide, after tuberculosis and leprosy. There is evidence that M. ulcerans is an environmental pathogen transmitted to humans from aquatic niches; however, well-characterized pure cultures of M. ulcerans from the environment have never been reported. Here we present details of the isolation and characterization of an M. ulcerans strain (00-1441 obtained from an aquatic Hemiptera (common name Water Strider, Gerris sp. from Benin. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS: One culture from a homogenate of a Gerris sp. in BACTEC became positive for IS2404, an insertion sequence with more than 200 copies in M. ulcerans. A pure culture of M. ulcerans 00-1441 was obtained on Löwenstein-Jensen medium after inoculation of BACTEC culture in mouse footpads followed by two other mouse footpad passages. The phenotypic characteristics of 00-1441 were identical to those of African M. ulcerans, including production of mycolactone A/B. The nucleotide sequence of the 5' end of 16S rRNA gene of 00-1441 was 100% identical to M. ulcerans and M. marinum, and the sequence of the 3' end was identical to that of the African type except for a single nucleotide substitution at position 1317. This mutation in M. ulcerans was recently discovered in BU patients living in the same geographic area. Various genotyping methods confirmed that strain 00-1441 has a profile identical to that of the predominant African type. Strain 00-1441 produced severe progressive infection and disease in mouse footpads with involvement of bone. CONCLUSION: Strain 00-1441 represents the first genetically and phenotypically identified strain of M. ulcerans isolated in pure culture from the environment. This isolation supports the concept that the agent of BU is a human pathogen with an environmental

The Optimization of Molecular Detection of Clinical Isolates of Brucella in Blood Cultures by eryD Transcriptase Gene for Confirmation of Culture-Negative Samples.

Science.gov (United States)

Tabibnejad, Mahsa; Alikhani, Mohammad Yousef; Arjomandzadegan, Mohammad; Hashemi, Seyed Hamid; Naseri, Zahra

2016-04-01

Brucellosis is a zoonosis disease which is widespread across the world. The aim of the present study is the evaluation of culture-negative blood samples. A total of 100 patients with suspected brucellosis were included in this experimental study and given positive serological tests. Diagnosis was performed on patients with clinical symptoms of the disease, followed by the detection of a titer that was equal to or more than 1:160 (in endemic areas) by the standard tube agglutination method. Blood samples were cultured by a BACTEC 9050 system, and subsequently by Brucella agar. At the same time, DNA from all blood samples was extracted by Qiagen Kit Company (Qia Amp Mini Kit). A molecular assay of blood samples was carried out by detection of eryD transcriptase and bcsp 31 genes in specific double PCR reactions. The specificity of the primers was evaluated by DNA from pure and approved Brucella colonies found in the blood samples, by DNA from other bacteria, and by ordinary PCR. DNA extraction from the pure colonies was carried out by both Qiagen Kit and Chelex 100 methods; the two were compared. 39 cases (39%) had positive results when tested by the BACTEC system, and 61 cases (61%) became negative. 23 culture-positive blood samples were randomly selected for PCR reactions; all showed 491 bp for the eryD gene and 223 bp for the bcsp 31 gene. Interestingly, out of 14 culture-negative blood samples, 13 cases showed positive bonds in PCR. The specificity of the PCR method was equal to 100%. DNA extraction from pure cultures was done by both Chelex 100 and Qiagen Kit; these showed the same results for all samples. The results prove that the presented double PCR method could be used to detect positive cases from culture-negative blood samples. The Chelex 100 method is simpler and safer than the use of Qiagen Kit for DNA extraction.

Optimisation of decontamination method and influence of culture media on the recovery of Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis from spiked water sediments.

Science.gov (United States)

Aboagye, G; Rowe, M T

2018-07-01

The recovery of Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis (Map) from the environment can be a laborious process - owing to Map being fastidious, its low number, and also high numbers of other microbial populations in such settings. Protocols i.e. filtration, decontamination and modified elution were devised to recover Map from spiked water sediments. Three culture media: Herrold's Egg Yolk Media (HEYM), Middlebrook 7H10 (M-7H10) and Bactec 12B were then employed to grow the organism following its elution. In the sterile sediment samples the recovery of Map was significant between the time of exposure for each of HEYM and M-7H10, and insignificant between both media (P < 0.05). However, in the non-sterile sediment samples, the HEYM grew other background microflora including moulds at all the times of exposure whilst 4 h followed by M-7H10 culture yielded Map colonies without any background microflora. Using sterile samples only for the Bactec 12B, the recovery of Map decreased as time of exposure increased. Based on these findings, M-7H10 should be considered for the recovery of Map from the natural environment including water sediments where the recovery of diverse microbial species remains a challenge. Map is a robust pathogen that abides in the environment. In water treatment operations, Map associates with floccules and other particulate matter including sediments. It is also a fastidious organism, and its detection and recovery from the water environment is a laborious process and can be misleading within the abundance of other mycobacterial species owing to their close resemblance in phylogenetic traits. In the absence of a reliable recovery method, Map continues to pose public health risks through biofilm in household water tanks, hence the need for the development of a reliable recovery protocol to monitor the presence of Map in water systems in order to curtail its public health risks. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Validation of shortened 2-day sterility testing of mesenchymal stem cell-based therapeutic preparation on an automated culture system.

Science.gov (United States)

Lysák, Daniel; Holubová, Monika; Bergerová, Tamara; Vávrová, Monika; Cangemi, Giuseppina Cristina; Ciccocioppo, Rachele; Kruzliak, Peter; Jindra, Pavel

2016-03-01

Cell therapy products represent a new trend of treatment in the field of immunotherapy and regenerative medicine. Their biological nature and multistep preparation procedure require the application of complex release criteria and quality control. Microbial contamination of cell therapy products is a potential source of morbidity in recipients. The automated blood culture systems are widely used for the detection of microorganisms in cell therapy products. However the standard 2-week cultivation period is too long for some cell-based treatments and alternative methods have to be devised. We tried to verify whether a shortened cultivation of the supernatant from the mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) culture obtained 2 days before the cell harvest could sufficiently detect microbial growth and allow the release of MSC for clinical application. We compared the standard Ph. Eur. cultivation method and the automated blood culture system BACTEC (Becton Dickinson). The time to detection (TTD) and the detection limit were analyzed for three bacterial and two fungal strains. The Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa were recognized within 24 h with both methods (detection limit ~10 CFU). The time required for the detection of Bacillus subtilis was shorter with the automated method (TTD 10.3 vs. 60 h for 10-100 CFU). The BACTEC system reached significantly shorter times to the detection of Candida albicans and Aspergillus brasiliensis growth compared to the classical method (15.5 vs. 48 and 31.5 vs. 48 h, respectively; 10-100 CFU). The positivity was demonstrated within 48 h in all bottles, regardless of the size of the inoculum. This study validated the automated cultivation system as a method able to detect all tested microorganisms within a 48-h period with a detection limit of ~10 CFU. Only in case of B. subtilis, the lowest inoculum (~10 CFU) was not recognized. The 2-day cultivation technique is then capable of confirming the microbiological safety of MSC and

A new in vitro screening system for anticancer drugs for the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Hanauske, U.; Hanauske, A.R.; Clark, G.M.; Tsen, D.; Buchok, J.; Hoff, D.D. von

1989-01-01

We have evaluated a semiautomated radiometric assay (BACTEC 460 system) for screening of activity of anticancer drugs against human non-small cell lung cancer cell lines. Cells from seven cell lines were exposed to standard antineoplastic agents at four different concentrations using a 1-h incubation. Alpha 2-interferon was tested using a continuous incubation. In vitro drug activity was analyzed as a function of the clinically achievable serum concentration. Our results indicate that two cell lines (CALU-3, SK-MES-1) exhibit in vitro drug sensitivity patterns closest to those observed in clinical studies. These two cell lines might therefore be most useful for screening new anticancer compounds for activity against non-small cell lung cancer. The radiometric assay is a semiautomated system which has advantages over other, more time-consuming screening systems

Effect of high-temperature, short-time (HTST) pasteurization on milk containing low numbers of Mycobacterium paratuberculosis.

Science.gov (United States)

Grant, I R; Ball, H J; Rowe, M T

1998-02-01

The efficacy of high-temperature, short-time (HTST) pasteurization (72 degrees C/15 s) when low numbers (HTST pasteurization using laboratory pasteurizing units. Ten bovine strains of Myco. paratuberculosis were tested in triplicate. Culture in BACTEC Middlebrook 12B radiometric medium detected acid-fast survivors in 14.8% and 10% of HTST-pasteurized milk samples at the 10(3) and 10(2) cfu ml-1 inoculum levels, respectively, whereas conventional culture on Herrold's egg yolk medium containing mycobactin J detected acid-fast survivors in only 3.7% and 6.7% of the same milk samples. IS900-based PCR confirmed that these acid-fast survivors were Myco. paratuberculosis. No viable Myco. paratuberculosis were isolated from HTST-pasteurized milk initially containing either 10 cfu ml-1 or 10 cfu 50 ml-1.

Diseño de un entorno multimedia y telemático aplicado a la Contabilidad de Costes. Disseny d'un entorn multimèdia i telemàtic aplicat a la Comptabilitat de Costos Design of a multimedia and e-learning environment aplied to Cost Accounting

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Juan Luis Gandía Cabedo

2008-12-01

Full Text Available El objetivo de este trabajo es desarrollar un modelo virtual-presencial que favorezca un aprendizaje controlado y dirigido por el profesor y donde el estudiante sea el protagonista de su proceso formativo. Las características del entorno multimedia y telemático propuesto se desarrolla sobre la plataforma de e-learning Moodle, si bien los recursos ofrecidos por la misma han sido ampliados con tres innovaciones relevantes: i el gestor de contenidos, que permite integrar audio, video, documentos, imágenes y cuestionarios; ii Un generador automatizado de ejercicios autoevaluables, que permite la elaboración de enunciados individualizados para cada estudiante y su solución; iii Una ficha de estudiante que permite integrar los resultados obtenidos de las diferentes actividades evaluables: cuestionarios, consultas, talleres, foros, casos prácticos o simulaciones.

Sistema automatizado para el control de las inversiones en las redes eléctricas.

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Maylín Díaz Pardillo

2015-03-01

Full Text Available El presente trabajo investigativo abarca las etapas de la automatización del proceso de control en la ejecución de las inversiones que se realizan en las redes del Sistema Electroenergético Nacional, integrado al Sistema Integral de Gestión de Redes de la Unión Eléctrica. Para el desarrollo de la aplicación se llevaron a cabo las etapas del proceso de desarrollo de software, según lo especifica el Proceso Unificado de Desarrollo (RUP, utilizándose como herramienta de modelado para el análisis y diseño: el Enterprise Architect. El software se implementó en Embarcadero RAD Studio 2010 el cual incluye facilidades de desarrollo para aplicaciones Desktop con un diseño de interfaz adecuado a los requerimientos del cliente, se utilizó Object Pascal como lenguaje de programación lo que permitió un código eficiente y para la persistencia de la información se utilizó como Sistema Gestor de Base de Datos: Microsoft SQL Server 2008 R2.

Desenvolvimento e implementação automatizados de recomendações clínicas

OpenAIRE

Vilas Boas, Tiago Campelo

2013-01-01

Dissertação de mestrado em Engenharia Informática Currently the health sector where the growing needs to standardize medical practices and promote the improvement of clinical practice to reduce costs becomes increasingly important to find a solution that will allow these goals to be more easily achieved. For this the solution that best catches the interest currently is the use of Clinical Recommendations. Clinics offer recommendations in the form of long documents advice of good medica...

Sistema automatizado para el control de las inversiones en las redes eléctricas.

OpenAIRE

Maylín Díaz Pardillo; María Ela Díaz Gómez; Orlando Brunet Arias

2015-01-01

El presente trabajo investigativo abarca las etapas de la automatización del proceso de control en la ejecución de las inversiones que se realizan en las redes del Sistema Electroenergético Nacional, integrado al Sistema Integral de Gestión de Redes de la Unión Eléctrica. Para el desarrollo de la aplicación se llevaron a cabo las etapas del proceso de desarrollo de software, según lo especifica el Proceso Unificado de Desarrollo (RUP), utilizándose como herramienta de modelado para el análisi...

Desenvolvimento de um sistema automatizado para a fabricação de filmes automontados

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Trivinho-Strixino Francisco

2004-01-01

Full Text Available In this technical note, we describe the construction of a low-cost computer controlled device for layer-by-layer film fabrication. The software allows to control multiple material deposition, washing and drying steps and the time for each operation. To test the device, we produced and characterized self-assembled films of conductive polymers by alternating poly(o-methoxyaniline (POMA and poly(3-thiophene acetic acid (PTAA via the layer-by-layer technique.

Extra pulmonary tuberculosis: Rapid identification of Mycobacterium tuberculosis grown in Mycobacterium growth indicator tube 960 and Lowenstein-Jensen media, employing Standard diagnostics Bioline Mycobacterium tuberculosis protein 64 antigen detection kit

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G Kandhakumari

2015-01-01

Full Text Available Background: Investigation of extra pulmonary tuberculosis (EPTB in and around Pondicherry is being carried out since August 2011 in our tertiary care super specialty hospital. Objectives: To compare the rapid Kit SD Bio-Line MPT 64 Ag with conventional and time consuming biochemical tests. Confirmation of Mycobacterium tuberculosis at a reasonable time frame is the main thrust. Materials and Methods: Thirty three Mycobacterium tuberculosis and four Non-Tuberculous Mycobacteria (NTM grown in MGIT960 system/Lowenstein-Jensen media (LJ were examined by the rapid MPT 64 antigen detection as well as a battery of conventional tests like niacin, nitrate reduction, paraminobenzoic acid susceptibility and cord formation. Results and Conclusion: . Both the rapid kit and conventional tests correctly identified 33 M.tuberculosis isolates. Keeping conventional identification as reference, sensitivity and specificity for rapid kit was 100%. Rapid kit which takes only 15 minutes is accurate, cost effective, and facilitates early treatment for these EPTB patients, whose clinical specimens are paucibacillary.

Caracterização das epidemias de malária nos municípios da Amazônia Brasileira em 2010 Caracterización de las epidemias de malaria en los municipios de la Amazonia brasileña en 2010 Characteristics of malaria epidemics in the municipalities of the Brazilian Amazon, 2010

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Pedro Luiz Tauil

2013-05-01

Full Text Available Epidemias de malária ocorrem anualmente nos municípios da Região Amazônica, Brasil, no entanto os serviços de saúde não adotam, de maneira sistemática, instrumentos para detecção e contenção oportunas desses eventos. O objetivo foi caracterizar as epidemias de malária na região segundo duração, espécie de Plasmodium e vulnerabilidade das populações. Foi avaliado um sistema de monitoramento automatizado da incidência da malária, com base no diagrama de controle segundo quartis, para identificar as epidemias da doença. Em 2010, ocorreram epidemias em 338 (41,9% municípios da região. Houve epidemias por P. falciparum e por P. vivax, separadamente, e também por ambas as espécies. Epidemias com duração de um a quatro meses ocorreram em 58,3% dos municípios epidêmicos; de cinco a oito meses, em 24,3%; e de nove a 12 meses, em 17,4%. O monitoramento automatizado da variação da incidência da malária poderá contribuir para detecção precoce das epidemias e melhorar o seu controle oportuno.Las epidemias de malaria ocurren anualmente en los municipios de la Región Amazónica, Brasil, no obstante, los servicios de salud no adoptan de manera sistemática instrumentos para la detección y contención oportuna de este tipo de eventos. El objetivo fue caracterizar las epidemias de malaria en la región según su duración, especie de Plasmodium y vulnerabilidad de las poblaciones. Se evalúo un sistema de supervisión automatizado de la incidencia de la malaria, en base al diagrama de control según cuartiles, con el fin de identificar las epidemias de la enfermedad. En 2010, se produjeron epidemias en 338 (41,9% municipios de la región. Hubo epidemias por P. falciparum y por P. vivax, separadamente, y también por ambas especies. Hubo epidemias con una duración de uno a cuatro meses que se produjeron en un 58,3% de los municipios epidémicos; de cinco a ocho meses, en un 24,3%; y de nueve a 12 meses, en un 17,4%. La

Diagnosis of endometrial tuberculosis: culture versus histopathological examination

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Zaman, G.; Karamat, K.A.; Hafeez-ud-Din; Yousaf, A.; Abbasi, S.A.; Rafi, S.

2002-01-01

Objective: To compare the relative efficacy of histopathological examination and culture method in the diagnosis of endometrial tuberculosis. Design: It was a prospective, comparative in-vitro study. Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted at the Armed Forces Institute of Pathology, Rawalpindi and Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Military Hospital, Rawalpindi from August 1998 to April 1999. Materiel and Methods: A total number of 50 cases of primary and secondary infertility were selected. Endometrial biopsies of all patients were subjected to histopathological as well as culture examination on BACTEC. Results: Culture method yielded 10% (n=5) positive results compared with 6% (n=3) positive results obtained by histopathological examination. P value was 0.096 by chi-square test. Conclusion: Culture is a more effective method compared with histopathological examination in the diagnosis of endometrial tuberculosis. (author)

Rapid detection and identification of pathogenic mycobacteria by combining radiometric and nucleic acid probe methods

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ellner, P.D.; Kiehn, T.E.; Cammarata, R.; Hosmer, M.

1988-01-01

The combination of radiometric methodology (BACTEC 12B) and probe technology for recovery and identification of mycobacteria was studied in two large hospital laboratories. The sediment from vials with positive growth indices was tested with DNA probes specific for Mycobacterium tuberculosis, Mycobacterium avium, and Mycobacterium intracellulare. The sensitivity of the radiometric method and the specificity of the probes resulted in a marked reduction in the time to the final report. Biochemical testing could be eliminated on isolates giving a positive reaction with one of the probes. Some 176 isolates of M. tuberculosis, 110 of M. avium, and 5 of M. intracellulare were recovered. Two-thirds of these isolates were detected and identified within 2 weeks of inoculation and the remainder was detected by 4 weeks, a reduction of 5 to 7 weeks to the final report

Comparison of three methods for identification of pathogenic Neisseria species

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Appelbaum, P.C.; Lawrence, R.B.

1979-05-01

A radiometric procedure was compared with the Minitek and Cystine Trypticase Agar sugar degradation methods for identification of 113 Neisseria species (58 Neisseria meningitidis, 51 Neisseria gonorrhoeae, 2 Neisseria lactamica, 2 Neisseria sicca). Identification of meningococci and gonoccoi was confirmed by agglutination and fluorescent antibody techniques, respectively. The Minitek method identified 97% of meningococci, 92% of gonococci, and 100% of other Neisseria after 4 h of incubation. The radiometric (Bactec) procedure identified 100% of gonococci and 100% of miscellaneous Neisseria after 3 h, but problems were encountered with meningococci: 45% of the later strains yielded index values for fructose between 20 and 28 (recommended negative cut-off point, less than 20), with strongly positive (greater than 100) glucose and maltose and negative o-nitrophenyl-beta-0-galactopyranoside reactions in all 58 strains. The Cystine Trypticase Agar method identified 91% of meningococci, ases.

Rendimiento de la prueba Xpert MTB/RIF en muestras respiratorias en el escenario real de trabajo en un país en desarrollo

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Santiago Atehortúa

2015-03-01

Full Text Available Introducción. La prueba Xpert MTB/RIF detecta el ADN del complejo Mycobacterium tuberculosis y la sensibilidad a rifampicina. La prueba ha sido evaluada en condiciones “ideales” que incluyen la centrifugación de esputo y el lavado broncoalveolar, la tinción de Ziehl Neelsen (ZN y de auramina-rodamina y los métodos de cultivo sólido y de cultivo líquido automatizado. Los resultados de tales evaluaciones no pueden extrapolarse a países de bajos ingresos que no utilizan habitualmente todos estos procesos. Objetivo. Evaluar el rendimiento de la prueba Xpert MTB/RIF en muestras respiratorias bajo condiciones “reales” de trabajo y su correlación con las pruebas fenotípicas de sensibilidad. Materiales y métodos. Se llevó a cabo un estudio transversal para evaluar el rendimiento de la prueba Xpert MTB/RIF en pacientes ≥12 años con sospecha de tuberculosis pulmonar. En el procesamiento rutinario de muestras en el Hospital del estudio no se usa la centrifugación del esputo, la tinción con auramina-rodamina ni el cultivo líquido automatizado. Resultados.Se incluyeron 152 pacientes, de los cuales 108 eran elegibles y 103 se incluyeron en el análisis. El 34 % de las muestras fueron positivas; la sensibilidad de la prueba fue de 91 %, la especificidad de 92 %, el valor diagnóstico positivo de 83 % y el valor diagnóstico negativo global de 96 %. En las muestras negativas con Ziehl Neelsen, la sensibilidad fue de 87 %, la especificidad de 91 % y los valores diagnósticos positivo y negativo alcanzaron 68 y 97 %, respectivamente. Los resultados de sensibilidad o resistencia a la rifampicina concordaron con los de la prueba fenotípica de sensibilidad (valor de kappa=1, p<0,0001. Conclusiones. El rendimiento global de la prueba fue similar al obtenido bajo condiciones “ideales”. En las muestras negativas con Ziehl Neelsen se obtuvo un mejor rendimiento en las condiciones “reales” de trabajo de un país de bajos ingresos

Controle automático do fluxo de água na etapa de limpeza em unidades de beneficiamento de tomate de mesa Automatic control of water sistems in the cleaning step in fresh market tomato packing units

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Marcos D. Ferreira

2011-10-01

Full Text Available A água é um recurso cada vez mais escasso e também de alto custo em várias regiões. O beneficiamento de frutas e hortaliças, em geral, apresenta elevado consumo de água durante o processo de limpeza. A linha de beneficiamento e de classificação do tomate de mesa é constituída de: recebimento, limpeza, seleção, classificação e embalagem. Normalmente, o recebimento dos tomates em uma linha de beneficiamento ocorre com taxa de alimentação constante, porém com interrupções frequentes dos operadores, ocasionando desperdício de energia e água, e a eficiência de limpeza dos frutos. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar um sistema de limpeza dos frutos, equipado com um controle automático de fluxo de água, visando ao uso racional de água. Para a avaliação da eficiência do processo de limpeza, aplicou-se uma metodologia que utiliza o turbidímetro. Observou-se que o índice de limpeza foi, segundo critérios estatísticos, semelhante nos sistemas automatizado e tradicional, todavia o consumo de água no sistema automatizado foi quatro vezes inferior quando comparado ao sistema tradicional, indicando o potencial de aplicação comercial deste sistema.Water is a natural resource becoming scarce in many regions. Cleaning fruits and vegetables, generally demands high water consumption. A fresh market tomato packing-line is composed of: receiving, cleaning, sorting, classifying and packing. Normally, the receiving process for tomatoes in a packing line happens in a constant flow, however often interruptions of operators cause loss of water, energy and also fruits cleaning efficiency. The main goal of this study was to develop an automation system for cleaning fruits, with a rational water use. For evaluating cleaning efficiency it was developed a methodology using a turbidimiter. The results showed that the cleaning efficiency index was statistically similar between the two systems; however, water consumption for the automated

Micropropagação de Zantedeschia spp.: otimização do processo produtivo

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LÍVIA MENDES CASTRO

2008-07-01

Full Text Available A produção de flores constitui-se em enorme potencial ao Agribusiness brasileiro. No entanto, para se ter acesso ao competitivo mercado de flores, é necessário vencer algumas barreiras. Uma das encontradas para a expansão de algumas espécies ornamentais, a exemplo de Zantedeschia spp., é a inexistência de protocolos eficientes de micropropagação visando à produção de mudas sadias em escala comercial e a um preço competitivo. O objetivo deste trabalho foi desenvolver protocolo específico para micropropagação da cultivar Neroli tendo em vista a otimização do processo produtivo para ganho de escala e qualidade fitossanitária das mudas obtidas. Para tanto, utilizaram-se os seguintes sistemas de esterilização de meios de cultura: a sistema tradicional com o uso de autoclave e frascos de vidro como recipientes e b sistema semi-automatizado no qual o meio de cultura é esterilizado em máquina especial (esterilizador de meio de cultura e distribuído em dois diferentes potes de plástico esterilizados por plasma: 1 com filtro inserido na tampa e 2 sem filtro inserido na tampa. Compararam-se protocolos de esterilização dos explantes, método de isolamento dos explantes meristemáticos, composição nutricional e composição de fitorreguladores dos meios de cultura. O desenvolvimento do sistema semi- automatizado proposto combinado com 4,44 µM de benzilaminopurina (BAP e uso de potes plásticos com filtro inserido nas tampas aumentaram a eficiência da micropropagação mensurada pelo comprimento médio das plântulas (5,75 ± 0,22, pelo número médio de brotos obtidos por explantes (2,56 ± 0,25 e pelo número médio de raízes (7,22 ± 0,31. O protocolo obtido pode auxiliar na redução dos custos desta ornamental, viabilizando-a comercialmente.

EMPREGO DE TÉCNICAS DE INFERÊNCIA ESPACIAL PARA IDENTIFICAÇÃO DE UNIDADES DE RELEVO APOIADO EM ATRIBUTOS TOPOGRÁFICOS E ÁRVORE DE DECISÃO

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Ricardo Michael Pinheiro Silveira

2014-04-01

Full Text Available A identificação e representação das formas do relevo é de grande importância para alicerçar ações de planejamento e gestão ambiental e territorial, sendo o mapeamento geomorfológico um importante instrumento de apoio. A demanda por cartografia geomorfológica é crescente, no entanto métodos convencionais são onerosos, de elevado custo pois envolvem extensos trabalhos de campo e complexa subjetividade na determinação das feições do relevo. Devido ao avanço das geotecnologias e informática aplicadas no campo da geomorfologia, é crescente o uso de técnicas de inferência espacial para identificação de distintas unidades do relevo, apoiada na análise digital do relevo. Nesse sentido, visando contribuir com o avanço de método e técnicas de mapeamento digital do relevo, o presente trabalho apresenta o experimento que identificou unidades morfológicas apoiando-se em atributos topográficos derivados do MDE SRTM90 no Estado do Paraná. As variáveis empregadas foram: declividade, plano de curvatura e acumulação do fluxo. Baseia-se na proposta de mapeamento automatizado de Iwahashi e Pike (2007, que consiste na classificação não-supervisionada das formas do terreno utilizando uma árvore de decisões com base nos valores médios, que resultou em 18 classes. A validação da proposta de mapeamento automatizado se consolidou em duas etapas principais: verificação em campo com 36 pontos de controle e comparação com o Mapeamento Geomorfológico do Estado do Paraná pautada na quantificação dos resultados obtidos, que evidenciaram a possibilidade de avançar na questão de taxonomia do relevo utilizando o modelo como referência. A proposta se mostrou eficaz, exequível e com grande aplicabilidade, constatando o potencial de uso dos dados SRTM90 e seus subprodutos, aliado às técnicas de SIG e geoprocessamento, na identificação de formas do relevo.

Instrumentação para espectroscopia de ressonância de ultrassom

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R. F. de L. Lorenzi

2014-09-01

Full Text Available A técnica de espectroscopia de ressonância de ultrassom possibilita a determinação simultânea de todos os componentes do tensor de elasticidade do material que constitui a amostra. Neste trabalho é descrita a montagem de um dispositivo de espectroscopia de ressonância de ultrassom automatizado, que possibilita a análise de pequenas amostras na forma de paralelepípedos, cilindros ou esferas. A aplicação deste dispositivo é exemplificada com a determinação das constantes elásticas de amostras policristalinas de alumina e níquel. Os resultados obtidos diferem dos valores esperados em, no máximo, 2,6% e 0,91% para a alumina e níquel, respectivamente, e ilustram a aplicação deste dispositivo na determinação das constantes elásticas de pequenas amostras.

Do digital para o impresso: automação e gatekeeper no contrafluxo da tecnologia

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Alexsandro Teixeira Ribeiro

2016-12-01

Full Text Available O artigo busca realizar uma análise, sob a teoria do gatekeeper, das rotinas jornalísticas envolvidas na produção do jornal The Long Good Read, projeto idealizado pelo jornal britânico The Guardian e circulado na área específica da cafeteria do jornal. Busca-se também analisar a atuação dos leitores nas escolhas dos temas e textos a serem veiculados nas edições do periódico. Quase inteiramente automatizado, ou seja, editado e diagramado em quase sua totalidade por algoritmos, a proposta do jornal era de veicular reportagens publicadas no The Guardian, escolhidas pelos leitores por meio de algoritmos que identificavam os textos mais lidos e compartilhados nas redes sociais.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.21882/ruc.v4i7.649 Recebido: 18/08/2016 Publicado: 07/12/2016

Análisis del lenguaje controlado en tres bases de datos internacionales = A controlled language analysis in three international databases

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Purificación Moscoso

2000-06-01

Full Text Available Se analiza el lenguaje controlado utilizado para la indización de tres bases de datos internacionales de Ciencias Sociales, utilizando los parámetros fundamentales que deben regir todo proceso de indización: la relevancia, la consistencia y la exhaustividad. Asimismo, se comparan los resultados obtenidos en el análisis de los lenguajes controlados post-coordinados y pre-coordinados de cara a la recuperación de información por materias. Estos resultados constatan la mayor idoneidad del uso de descriptores frente a encabezamientos de materia en los entornos automatizados = This paper analyses the indexing of three Social Sciencies International databases taken into consideration relevance, consistency and exhaustivity of the vocabulary used in the controlled languajes. Post-coordinated languaje and pre-coordinated languaje are compared, and results identify the coherence of the use of descriptors versus subject headings.

PERIODISMO AUTOMATIZADO, GENERACIÓN DE LENGUAJE NATURAL Y LA LÓGICA DE LO SUFICIENTEMENTE BUENO

OpenAIRE

Carreira, Krishma; Squirra, Sebastião

2017-01-01

A explosão de dados digitais e o avanço do campo da Inteligência Artificial permitiram o surgimento de algoritmos capazes de redigir e distribuir automaticamente notícias jornalísticas com rapidez e de forma customizada. A automatizacão da produção de narrativas entrega textos básicos, objetivos e sem sofisticação, formatando a função de jornalistas e contribui para a ampliação da chamada "bolha de filtros" definida por Eli Pariser.  Neste texto, procuramos demonstrar que ao adotar a aut...

Determination of methodology of automatic history matching; Determinacao de metodologia de ajuste automatizado de historico

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Santos, Jose Pedro Moura dos

2000-01-01

In management of hydrocarbon reservoirs the numeric simulation is a fundamental tool. The validation of a field model with production report is made through history matching which, many times, is done by trial and errors procedures consuming excessive computational time and human efforts. The objective of this work is to present a methodology for automation of the history matching using the program UNIPAR with the modules of parallel computing, sensibility analysis and optimization. Based on an example of an offshore field, analyses of the objective function (water production, oil production and average pressure of the reservoir) behavior were accomplished as function of the variations of reservoir parameters. It was verified that this behavior is very regular. After that, several adjustment situations were tested to define a procedure to be used for a history matching. (author) Ate aqui estao scanned.

Direct identification from Bact/Alert™ blood culture bottles by MALDI-TOF

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Vesselina Kroumova

2011-12-01

Full Text Available Bacterial identification from blood culture using traditional methods needs about 48 hours, since positivization, to be performed. Rapid bacterial identification can result in clinical and economic benefits. To provide rapid pathogen identification for targeted antibiotic treatment, in this study we tested an our previously described homemade method for bacterial identification using MALDI-TOF directly from positive BACTEC blood culture, on positive BacT/ALERT blood culture. A total of 108 bacteria were identified by MALDI-TOF with a positive identification obtained for 98% of Gram negative and 84,3% of Gram positive bacteria.The average of identification score obtained using the protocol described in this study was 2,047 for Gram positive and 2,204 for Gram negative microorganisms. Data here described show that this method is also useful when BacT/ALERT bottles are used and even if these bottles have activated charcoal as inhibitor of antibiotics.

SISTEMA DE MODELAGEM DE FIGURAS TRIDIMENSIONAIS USANDO RECONHECIMENTO DE VOZ

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Kauan Cristiano De Souza

2017-01-01

Full Text Available Atualmente o mercado de Sistemas de Desenho auxiliado por Computador (CAD, sofre extrema carência de processos automatizados de reconhecimento de fala. O surgimento de tecnologias de automação facilita no desenvolvimento de aplicações capazes de auxiliar nestes processos. Baseando-se nestas afirmações construiu-se um modelo utilizando tecnologias capazes de transformar fala em sinais digitais, sendo possível a interpretação por sofisticados computadores. Observando ausência de tais ferramentas, o presente trabalho busca uma proposta capaz de acrescentar mecanismos os quais possibilitem a criação de modelos tridimensionais usando tecnologias como servidores HTTP, dispositivos moveis, linguagens de programação Java e PHP, Computação Gráfica e linguagem de interpretação por blocos. Os resultados obtidos na confecção do presente trabalho corroboram com as necessidades atuais representadas na sociedade propondo sustentabilidade, acessibilidade, portabilidade e facilidade de comunicação.

Gestión automatizada e integrada de controles de seguridad informática

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Raydel Montesino Perurena

2013-04-01

Full Text Available En el presente trabajo se propone un modelo para la gestión automatizada e integrada de controles de seguridad informática, basado en sistemas de gestión de información y eventos de seguridad (SIEM, que posibilita aumentar la efectividad de los controles implementados y disminuir la complejidad de la gestión de la seguridad de la información. Se define el concepto de automatización en el contexto de la seguridad informática y se determinan los controles que pueden ser automatizados. Como parte de la investigación se seleccionan un grupo de indicadores que permiten medir de forma automatizada la efectividad de los controles, se propone además una guía para la aplicación del modelo propuesto y se describe una posible implementación del mismo utilizando el sistema SIEM de software libre OSSIM.

Fundamentos em processamento de linguagem natural: uma proposta para extração de bigramas

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Edson Marchetti da Silva

2014-08-01

Ë senso comum que o texto escrito é uma importante forma de registrar as informações e que atualmente grande parte desse conteúdo informacional está disponível em meio digital. Entretanto, de maneira geral, os computadores lidam com o texto como sendo uma cadeia de caracteres que não têm nenhum significado. A área de Processamento de Linguagem Natural (PLN vem se empenhando em extrair significados do texto. Nesse sentido este trabalho apresenta uma revisão desse tema e propõe um método automatizado que utiliza uma heurística determinística denominada Heudet que visa extrair bigramas do texto. A meta é extrair o significado do texto através de um conjunto de expressões multipalavras identificadas. Os resultados obtidos foram melhores se  comparados com aqueles que utilizam-se das técnicas de medidas de associação estatística obtidas pelo software Ngram Statistics Package (NSP.

DIREPI: Sistema para el cálculo a resistencia de recipientes sometidos a presión interna // DIREPI: System for the resistance calculation of recipients with internal pressure

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L. S. Flores Bernal

1999-07-01

Full Text Available El trabajo muestra la confección de un software para el cálculo a resistencia de recipientes sometidos a presión interna y construidosde acero, aborda también las ventajas que reporta el tener automatizado la metodología de trabajo por la calidad de los resultadosfinales que se obtienen y la fiabilidad de los mismos, el sistema posee una salida gráfica por AutoCAD que permite obtener losplanos de taller de los componentes de los recipientes diseñados.Palabras claves: CADD, CAD, diseño, cálculo de recipientes._________________________________________________________________________________AbstractThe work shows the making of a software for the calculation to resistance of steel recipients with internal pressure, it also approachesthe advantages that reports having automated the work methodology, the system has a graphic result for AutoCAD that allows toobtain the blueprinters of the components of the designed recipients.Key words: CADD, AutoCAD, design, calculation of recipients.

Analysis of variability in kinematic parameters during the execution of a succession of pirouettes in dance through an experimental protocol Análisis de la variabilidad de parámetros cinemáticos durante la ejecución de una sucesión de piruetas en danza a través de un protocolo automatizado

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F. J. Moreno

2010-09-01

bailarina. Se filmó la separación de los pies antes de iniciar cada pirueta cuyo ritmo de ejecución era marcado por un metrónomo electrónico. Los datos provenientes de los distintos aparatos de medida  nos aportaron información acerca de la mayor o menor precisión temporal de los sujetos y de la consistencia en la ejecución del movimiento de los mismos a diferentes ritmos de ejecución. Los resultados mostraron una mayor precisión temporal conforme el ritmo de ejecución aumentaba, así como una mayor precisión temporal del grupo de bailarinas con mayor experiencia. En conclusión, el protocolo automatizado aplicado es útil para analizar la variabilidad de parámetros cinemáticos durante la ejecución de una sucesión de piruetas en danza.
Palabras Clave: Protocolo experimental, variabilidad, piruetas en danza, precisión temporal, nivel de experiencia.

Determination of in vitro susceptibility of Mycobacterium tuberculosis to cephalosporins by radiometric and conventional methods

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Heifets, L.B.; Iseman, M.D.; Cook, J.L.; Lindholm-Levy, P.J.; Drupa, I.

1985-01-01

Among eight cephalosporins and cephamycins tested in preliminary in vitro screening against Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the most promising for further study was found to be ceforanide, followed by ceftizoxime, cephapirin, and cefotaxime. Moxalactam, cefoxitin, cefamandole, and cephalothin were found to be not active enough against M. tuberculosis to be considered for further in vitro studies. The antibacterial activity of various ceforanide concentrations was investigated by three methods: (i) the dynamics of radiometric readings (growth index) in 7H12 broth; (ii) the number of CFU in the same medium; and (iii) the proportion method on 7H11 agar plates. There was a good correlation among the results obtained with these methods. The MIC for most strains ranged from 6.0 to 25.0 micrograms/ml. The BACTEC radiometric method is a reliable, rapid, and convenient method for preliminary screening and determination of the level of antibacterial activity of drugs not commonly used against M. tuberculosis

Radiometric assessment of the sensitivity to antituberculotics of Mycobacterium avium-intracellulare and Mycobacterium xenopi

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Kubin, M.; Lindholm-Levy, P.; Heifets, L. B.

1994-01-01

The macrodilution radiometric method using Middlebrook's 7H12 liquid medium enriched with 14 C-palmitic acid, where the growth activity is monitored by measuring liberated 14 CO 2 , was applied to 25 strains of the Mycobacterium avium complex and to 20 strains of Mycobacterium xenopi to determine the minimal inhibitory concentrations of the following chemotherapeutical agents: ciprofloxacine, clofazimine, rifampin, cycloserine, kanamycin, etionamide, ethambutol, and amikacin. In the case of the M. avium complex, slightly or completely resistant strains were found for the majority of drugs. The sensitive strain proportion was highest with clofazimine and amikacin. The M. xenopis strains exhibited generally lower minimal inhibitory concentrations than the avian mycobacteria for all drugs except for cycloserine and ethambutol. The radiometric method using the BACTEC system was found suitable for the determination of the sensitivity of mycobacteria to chemotherapeutic agents: the results are obtained rapidly, within 8 days following inoculation, and the minimal inhibitory concentrations can be evaluated quantitatively. 1 tab., 8 refs

Automated control of electronic equipment in intelligent buildings; Control automatizado de equipo electrico en edificios inteligentes

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Gutierrez Vera, Jorge [Electrica Integral, S. A. de C. V., Mexico, D. F. (Mexico)

1994-12-31

This paper pretends to call the attention of the audience and of the readers of it on the great importance that on a national level the programs on primary energy as well as on secondary energy saving and conservation have. Even more if we take into account that in our country by constitutional decree, the public service of electric power is reserved to the nation through the Comision Federal de Electricidad (CFE) which is a decentralized organization of the federal Mexican government, therefore subjected to, among many others, the Budgeting Law, Accountancy Law and Public Expenditure Law. We who know CFE, know the great difficulty, always raising, of getting resources for infrastructure works, among which we can cite: power plants, substations, transmission lines and distribution lines. Because of this, the energy saving and conservation programs represent for the electric sector the possibility or deferring the required investments to guarantee the energy offer. On the other hand, the users of the electric public service the implementation into its operational policies energy saving and conservation programs, undoubtedly will result into economical benefits and will improve the ratio kWh/Unit of the terminated product. Finally, in a country like ours, where 66% of generated electric power by the national electric sector comes from fossil fuel power plants, the generalized implementation of saving programs will diminish the need of generating kWh, and consequently, the emission of harmful pollutants to the environment such as nitrogen and sulfur oxides, carbon dioxide and suspended particles. [Espanol] En este trabajo se pretende llamar la atencion de la audiencia y de los lectores del mismo, de la gran importancia que a nivel nacional tienen los programas de ahorro y conservacion de energeticos, tanto primarios como secundarios. Maxime si tomamos en cuenta que en nuestro pais, por disposicion constitucional, la prestacion del servicio publico de energia electrica esta reservada a la nacion a traves de Comision Federal de Electricidad (CFE). La cual es un organismo descentralizado del Gobierno Federal y por ende, sujeta entre muchas otras a la Ley de Presupuesto, Contabilidad y Gasto Publico. Quienes conocemos CFE sabemos de la gran dificultad, siempre creciente, de allegarse recursos para financiar sus obras de infraestructura, entre las que podemos citar: centrales electricas, subestaciones, lineas de transmision y redes de distribucion. Por lo anterior, los programas de ahorro y conservacion de la energia representan para el sector electrico nacional la posibilidad de diferir las inversiones requeridas para garantizar la oferta de energia. Por otra parte, a los usuarios del servicio publico de energia, el instituir dentro de sus politicas operativas programas de ahorro y conservacion de la energia, indudablemente les redundara en beneficios economicos y se mejorara el indice de kWh/Unidad de producto terminado. Finalmente, en un pais como el nuestro en donde el 66% de la energia generada por el sector electrico nacional proviene de centrales termoelectricas que usan para su operacion combustibles fosiles, la implementacion generalizada de programas de ahorro de energia disminuira la necesidad de generar kWh, y en consecuencia, la emision de contaminantes agresivos al medio ambiente tales como oxidos de nitrogeno y de azufre, bioxido de carbono y particulas suspendidas.

Automated System of Area Radiation Measurement (ASARM); Sistema Automatizado de Medicion de Radiacion de Area (SAMRA)

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Hernandez G, J., E-mail: jaime.hernandez@inin.gob.mx [ININ, Carretera Mexico-Toluca s/n, 52750 Ocoyoacac, Estado de Mexico (Mexico)

2013-10-15

The realized activities in nuclear facilities involve the determination of the presence of ionizing radiation fields in the workspaces. The instruments designed to detect and to measure these radiation fields provide useful information (specific type of radiation, intensity, etc.) to take the appropriate radiological protection measures, with the purpose of reducing to the minimum the workers exposition and the people in general. The radiological protection program of Reactor TRIGA Mark III contains the instructions and procedures to implement a periodic radiological monitoring, surveillance, rising of contamination levels, type and number of the instruments required for the radiological monitoring of areas and personal. The ana logical monitoring system model Rms II used to detect and measuring exposition speed and neutron radiation fields in several areas of the installation, provides the information in a logarithmic scale measurer of 4 or 5 decades located in a shelf where the previously mentioned measurement channels are centralized. Also inside the reactor monitoring system are two monitors of radioactive material concentration in the air: The particles continuous monitor and the gaseous effluents monitor which present the referred information of the diverse detectors through ana logical readers. These monitors when operating with an ana logical indication does not present the possibility to generate historical files electronically of each monitor previously mentioned neither to generate visual and audible indications of the alarms. This work presents the Automated System of Area Radiation Measurement which potentiated the functionality of the area monitors for gamma and neutron radiation, as well as of the particles continuous monitor and the gaseous effluents of reactor TRIGA Mark III, when being developed a computer system that captures in real time the information of all the monitors, generating this way an electronic binnacle, a visual and audible alarm in the moment in that the predetermined shot values are reached. These alarms are located in the control room. (author)

Automated control of electronic equipment in intelligent buildings; Control automatizado de equipo electrico en edificios inteligentes

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Gutierrez Vera, Jorge [Electrica Integral, S. A. de C. V., Mexico, D. F. (Mexico)

1993-12-31

This paper pretends to call the attention of the audience and of the readers of it on the great importance that on a national level the programs on primary energy as well as on secondary energy saving and conservation have. Even more if we take into account that in our country by constitutional decree, the public service of electric power is reserved to the nation through the Comision Federal de Electricidad (CFE) which is a decentralized organization of the federal Mexican government, therefore subjected to, among many others, the Budgeting Law, Accountancy Law and Public Expenditure Law. We who know CFE, know the great difficulty, always raising, of getting resources for infrastructure works, among which we can cite: power plants, substations, transmission lines and distribution lines. Because of this, the energy saving and conservation programs represent for the electric sector the possibility or deferring the required investments to guarantee the energy offer. On the other hand, the users of the electric public service the implementation into its operational policies energy saving and conservation programs, undoubtedly will result into economical benefits and will improve the ratio kWh/Unit of the terminated product. Finally, in a country like ours, where 66% of generated electric power by the national electric sector comes from fossil fuel power plants, the generalized implementation of saving programs will diminish the need of generating kWh, and consequently, the emission of harmful pollutants to the environment such as nitrogen and sulfur oxides, carbon dioxide and suspended particles. [Espanol] En este trabajo se pretende llamar la atencion de la audiencia y de los lectores del mismo, de la gran importancia que a nivel nacional tienen los programas de ahorro y conservacion de energeticos, tanto primarios como secundarios. Maxime si tomamos en cuenta que en nuestro pais, por disposicion constitucional, la prestacion del servicio publico de energia electrica esta reservada a la nacion a traves de Comision Federal de Electricidad (CFE). La cual es un organismo descentralizado del Gobierno Federal y por ende, sujeta entre muchas otras a la Ley de Presupuesto, Contabilidad y Gasto Publico. Quienes conocemos CFE sabemos de la gran dificultad, siempre creciente, de allegarse recursos para financiar sus obras de infraestructura, entre las que podemos citar: centrales electricas, subestaciones, lineas de transmision y redes de distribucion. Por lo anterior, los programas de ahorro y conservacion de la energia representan para el sector electrico nacional la posibilidad de diferir las inversiones requeridas para garantizar la oferta de energia. Por otra parte, a los usuarios del servicio publico de energia, el instituir dentro de sus politicas operativas programas de ahorro y conservacion de la energia, indudablemente les redundara en beneficios economicos y se mejorara el indice de kWh/Unidad de producto terminado. Finalmente, en un pais como el nuestro en donde el 66% de la energia generada por el sector electrico nacional proviene de centrales termoelectricas que usan para su operacion combustibles fosiles, la implementacion generalizada de programas de ahorro de energia disminuira la necesidad de generar kWh, y en consecuencia, la emision de contaminantes agresivos al medio ambiente tales como oxidos de nitrogeno y de azufre, bioxido de carbono y particulas suspendidas.

Effect of pasteurization on survival of Mycobacterium paratuberculosis in milk.

Science.gov (United States)

Gao, A; Mutharia, L; Chen, S; Rahn, K; Odumeru, J

2002-12-01

Mycobacterium paratuberculosis (Mptb) is the causative agent of Johne's disease of ruminant animals including cattle, goats, and sheep. It has been suggested that this organism is associated with Crohn's disease in humans, and milk is a potential source of human exposure to this organism. A total of 18, including 7 regular batch and 11 high temperature short time (HTST) pasteurization experiments, were conducted in this study. Raw milk or ultra-high temperature pasteurized milk samples were spiked at levels of 10(3), 10(5), and 10(7) cfu of Mptb/ml. Escherichia coli and Mycobacterium bovis BCG strains at 10(7) cfu/ml were used as controls. Pasteurization experiments were conducted using time and temperature standards specified in the Canadian National Dairy Code: regular batch pasteurization method: 63 degrees C for 30 min, and HTST method: 72 degrees C for 15 s. The death curve of this organism was assessed at 63 degrees C. No survivors were detected after 15 min. Each spiked sample was cultured in Middlebrook 7H9 culture broth and Middlebrook 7H11 agar slants. Samples selected from 15 experiments were also subjected to BACTEC culture procedure. Survival of Mptb was confirmed by IS900-based PCR of colonies recovered on slants. No survivors were detected from any of the slants or broths corresponding to the seven regular batch pasteurization trials. Mptb survivors were detected in two of the 11 HTST experiments. One was by both slant and broth culture for the sample spiked to 10(7) cfu/ml of Mptb, while the other was detected by BACTEC for the sample spiked to 10(5) cfu/ml. These results indicate that Mptb may survive HTST pasteurization when present at > or = 10(5) cfu/ml in milk. A total of 710 retail milk samples collected from retail store and dairy plants in southwest Ontario were tested by nested IS900 PCR for the presence of Mptb. Fifteen percent of these samples (n = 110) were positive. However, no survivors were isolated from the broth and agar cultures of

Complete nucleotide sequence of CTX-M-15-plasmids from clinical Escherichia coli isolates: insertional events of transposons and insertion sequences.

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Annemieke Smet

Full Text Available BACKGROUND: CTX-M-producing Escherichia coli strains are regarded as major global pathogens. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS: The nucleotide sequence of three plasmids (pEC_B24: 73801-bp; pEC_L8: 118525-bp and pEC_L46: 144871-bp from Escherichia coli isolates obtained from patients with urinary tract infections and one plasmid (pEC_Bactec: 92970-bp from an Escherichia coli strain isolated from the joint of a horse with arthritis were determined. Plasmid pEC_Bactec belongs to the IncI1 group and carries two resistance genes: bla(TEM-1 and bla(CTX-M-15. It shares more than 90% homology with a previously published bla(CTX-M-plasmid from E. coli of human origin. Plasmid pEC_B24 belongs to the IncFII group whereas plasmids pEC_L8 and pEC_L46 represent a fusion of two replicons of type FII and FIA. On the pEC_B24 backbone, two resistance genes, bla(TEM-1 and bla(CTX-M-15, were found. Six resistance genes, bla(TEM-1, bla(CTX-M-15, bla(OXA-1, aac6'-lb-cr, tetA and catB4, were detected on the pEC_L8 backbone. The same antimicrobial drug resistance genes, with the exception of tetA, were also identified on the pEC_L46 backbone. Genome analysis of all 4 plasmids studied provides evidence of a seemingly frequent transposition event of the bla(CTX-M-15-ISEcp1 element. This element seems to have a preferred insertion site at the tnpA gene of a bla(TEM-carrying Tn3-like transposon, the latter itself being inserted by a transposition event. The IS26-composite transposon, which contains the bla(OXA-1, aac6'-lb-cr and catB4 genes, was inserted into plasmids pEC_L8 and pEC_L46 by homologous recombination rather than a transposition event. Results obtained for pEC_L46 indicated that IS26 also plays an important role in structural rearrangements of the plasmid backbone and seems to facilitate the mobilisation of fragments from other plasmids. CONCLUSIONS: Collectively, these data suggests that IS26 together with ISEcp1 could play a critical role in the evolution of

Trazabilidad y validación de requerimientos funcionales de sistemas informáticos mediante la transformación de modelos conceptuales

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Oscar Carlos Medina

2016-04-01

Full Text Available El objetivo de este trabajo es caracterizar un método que permita la trazabilidad y validación de requerimientos funcionales de un sistema de información mediante la transformación de modelos conceptuales. Para lo cual se construyó un software denominado SIAR (Sistema Integral de Administración de Requerimientos que administra los requerimientos funcionales y utiliza UML (Lenguaje Unificado de Modelado para su representación como Casos de Uso. La finalidad principal de esta aplicación web es la gestión de Casos de Uso con una herramienta que agilice su registro, normalice su contenido y posibilite la trazabilidad de los cambios e implemente validaciones funcionales. Por ejemplo, un procedimiento automatizado de análisis de consistencia de Casos de Uso, para lo cual el sistema genera un grafo con la transición de estados de cada Caso de Uso que es analizado en un simulador de autómata finito determinista para verificar la cohesión de los escenarios en él definidos.

Características de los usuarios del Centro de Recursos para el Aprendizaje y la Investigación de la Universidad de Cienfuegos

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Aylén Pérez Borges

2015-02-01

Full Text Available Objetivo: Caracterizar a los usuarios del Centro de Recursos para el Aprendizaje y la Investigación (CRAI de la Universidad de Cienfuegos “Carlos Rafael Rodríguez”. Método: Se realizó un análisis bibliográfico de los términos relacionados con el estudio, un análisis de la metodología AMIGA, así como de las estadísticas que brinda el sistema automatizado de préstamos de esta biblioteca universitaria sobre los usuarios que más visitan el centro. Resultados: Se identificaron diversos grupos de usuarios a nivel de estudiantes, profesores, facultades, centros universitarios municipales, y centros de estudios; a la vez que dos grupos centrales: usuarios reales y potenciales. Conclusiones: Se conocieron algunas de las características de los usuarios del CRAI, partiendo de los grupos identificados por el centro, teniendo en cuenta aspectos como sus niveles educacionales e intereses. Se considera que un estudio más detallado puede quedar abierto para cumplimentar este objetivo a un nivel mayormente exhaustivo.

Detecção de corte seletivo de madeira por técnica de rotação radiométrica na floresta amazônica / Detecting selective logging using radiometric rotation techniques in the amazon forest

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Paulo Maurício Lima de Alencastro Graça

2008-09-01

Full Text Available Este estudo teve por objetivo desenvolver uma metodologia para detectara exploração seletiva de madeira na Amazônia. Para alcançar este objetivoutilizou-se a técnica de detecção de mudanças baseada na rotaçãoradiométrica controlada por eixo de não mudança (RCEN acoplada a umclassifi cador temático probabilístico. Esta técnica tem como vantagem dispensar a necessidade de correções radiométricas prévias para asimagens analisadas. Os resultados encontrados revelam que as áreas de florestas afetadas pela extração madeireira ultrapassaram a extensão das áreas de fl orestas convertidas para fi ns agrícolas na região de Cláudia, Mato Grosso. O desempenho do mapeamento da atividade madeireira foi satisfatório, apresentando um Kappa condicional de 0,72. Esforços futuros para o aprimoramento de um sistema operacional automatizado utilizando esta técnica serão envidados

Cableado y puesta en marcha de puesto de laboratorio de automatización : mecanizado de taladro automatizado

OpenAIRE

Tena Fernández, Juan Diego

2011-01-01

El Proyecto Fin de Carrera titulado: “Cableado y puesta en marcha de puesto de laboratorio de automatización. Mecanizado de taladro automatizado”, trata sobre la construcción de un nuevo puesto de laboratorio para las practicas del área de automatización industrial de la Universidad Carlos III. El puesto de laboratorio consiste en una maquina-herramienta que realiza taladros de forma automática. El puesto está formado por una armario eléctrico y una maqueta. En el armario eléctrico se encuent...

COMPARAÇÃO ENTRE OS SISTEMAS AUTOMATIZADO E CONVENCIONAL DE CRIOPRESERVAÇÃO DE SÊMEN BOVINO

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Cátia Oliveira Guimarães Abud

2014-03-01

Full Text Available The objective of this study was to compare the efficiency of bovine semen cryopreservation using the controlled-rate freezing machine versus the conventional method (uncontrolled curve by the parameters of sperm quality and viability in post-thaw period. Semen from four adult crossbreed bulls was cryopreserved in Tris-yolk-glycerol medium. The computer assisted analysis of thawed semen detected the following results: PM 56.50±22.25%; VAP 34.77±4.25μm/s; VSL 28.17±4.25μm/s; VCL 58.45±6.85μm/s; STR 82.00±2.31%; LIN 49.50±3.32%, to automated system and PM 57.00±13.11%; VAP 25.75±1.66μm/s; VSL 23.32±1.99μm/s; VCL 63.32±1.79μm/s; STR 82.25±3.59μm/s; LIN 50.00±4.97μm/s to conventional cryopreservation system. The results of plasma membrane and acrosome integrity evaluation were 54.7±12.55% and 36.13±22.20% for the automated system and 53.22±13.22% and 47.26±5.74% for the conventional system, respectively. The parameters evaluated demonstrated that there was no statistical difference between the cryopreservation systems. Thus, the choice of the bovine semen cryopreservation method to be used on a farm is a responsibility of the technician, and should be based on the reality of each farm. Therefore, it is always necessary to consider that the conventional system of bovine semen cryopreservation can vary more than the automated system, which, despite the cost of the equipment, can ensure repeatability of the results and consequent quality of cryopreserved bovine semen.

Study radiolabeling of urea-based PSMA inhibitor with 68-Galliu: Comparative evaluation of automated and not automated methods; Estudo de radiomarcacao com Galio-68 do inibidor de PSMA baseado em ureia: avaliacao comparativa de metodo automatizado e nao automatizado

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Alcarde, Lais Fernanda

2016-07-01

The methods for clinical diagnosis of prostate cancer include rectal examination and the dosage of the prostatic specific antigen (PSA). However, the PSA level is elevated in about 20 to 30% of cases related to benign pathologies, resulting in false positives and leading patients to unnecessary biopsies. The prostate specific membrane antigen (PSMA), in contrast, is over expressed in prostate cancer and founded at low levels in healthy organs. As a result, it stimulated the development of small molecule inhibitors of PSMA, which carry imaging agents to the tumor and are not affected by their microvasculature. Recent studies suggest that the HBED-CC chelator intrinsically contributes to the binding of the PSMA inhibitor peptide based on urea (Glu-urea-Lys) to the pharmacophore group. This work describes the optimization of radiolabeling conditions of PSMA-HBED-CC with {sup 68}Ga, using automated system (synthesis module) and no automated method, seeking to establish an appropriate condition to prepare this new radiopharmaceutical, with emphasis on the labeling yield and radiochemical purity of the product. It also aimed to evaluate the stability of the radiolabeled peptide in transport conditions and study the biological distribution of the radiopharmaceutical in healthy mice. The study of radiolabeling parameters enabled to define a non-automated method which resulted in high radiochemical purity (> 95 %) without the need for purification of the labeled peptide. The automated method has been adapted, using a module of synthesis and software already available at IPEN, and also resulted in high synthetic yield (≥ 90%) specially when compared with those described in the literature, with the associated benefit of greater control of the production process in compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices. The study of radiolabeling parameters afforded the PSMA-HBED-CC-{sup 68}Ga with higher specific activity than observed in published clinical studies (≥ 140,0 GBq/μmol), with a sufficiently long stability, which will enable transport to clinics for use in diagnostic imaging. Biodistribution and pharmacokinetic profiles of the radiolabeled peptide were consistent with those founded in the literature. We concluded that PSMA-HBED-CC-{sup 68}Ga, important diagnostic tool for prostate cancer imaging with PET, can be produced by either automated or not automated method with high radiochemical purity, high synthetic yield and stability of the radiopharmaceutical. (author)

In vitro efficacy of ethionamide and clarithromycin in mycobacterium tuberculosis isolates

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Satti, M.S.; Abbasi, S.; Rafi, S.; Butt, T.; Karamat, K.A.

2010-01-01

To determine the sensitivity of clinical isolates of Mycobacterium tuberculosis isolates against ethionamide, and clarithromycin. Department of Microbiology, Armed Forces institute of Pathology (AFIP) Rawalpindi from June 2003 to June 2004. Materials and Methods: All routine clinical samples received for acid fast bacilli (AFB) culture and yielding positive growth on Lowenstien Jensen medium and Bactec 460 were include in the study. The isolates were from sputum (n=70), bronchioalveolar lavage (n=10), fine needle aspiration (n=6), lymph nodes (n=7), pleural fluid (n=4), endometrium (n=3). After the identification of M. tuberculosis (MTB) sensitivity was performed against first-line antituberculosis drugs. Then susceptibility of M. tuberculosis isolates against ethionamide and clarithromycih was performed on LJ medium. Mycobacterium H37Rv was used as control strain. Results were interpreted using resistance ratio method. Out of 100 M. tuberculosis isolates, sensitivity to ethionamide was 93% and 9% to clarithromycih. Clarithromycin when used alone is ineffective as antituberculosis drug but its efficacy in combination needs to be tested. However ethionamide may be used as an alternative antituberculosis drug. (author)

Corynebacterium pilbarense sp. nov., a non-lipophilic corynebacterium isolated from a human ankle aspirate.

Science.gov (United States)

Aravena-Roman, M; Spröer, C; Sträubler, B; Inglis, T; Yassin, A F

2010-07-01

A non-lipophilic coryneform bacterium isolated from an anaerobic Bactec bottle inoculated with an ankle aspirate from a male patient was characterized by phenotypic and molecular taxonomic methods. Chemotaxonomic investigations revealed the presence of short-chain mycolic acids in the cell wall of the bacterium, a feature consistent with members of the genus Corynebacterium. Comparative 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis demonstrated that the isolate displayed 92.0-99.0 % gene sequence similarity with members of the genus Corynebacterium, with Corynebacterium ureicelerivorans as the most closely related phylogenetic species (99.0 % gene sequence similarity). However, the isolate could be genomically separated from C. ureicelerivorans on the basis of DNA-DNA hybridization studies (39.5 % relatedness). Furthermore, the isolate could also be differentiated from C. ureicelerivorans and other species of the genus Corynebacterium on the basis of biochemical properties. Based on both phenotypic and phylogenetic evidence, it is proposed that this isolate be classified as representing a novel species, Corynebacterium pilbarense sp. nov. (type strain IMMIB WACC 658(T)=DSM 45350(T)=CCUG 57942(T)).

Automated radiometric detection of bacteria

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Waters, J.R.

1974-01-01

A new radiometric method called BACTEC, used for the detection of bacteria in cultures or in supposedly sterile samples, was discussed from the standpoint of methodology, both automated and semi-automated. Some of the results obtained so far were reported and some future applications and development possibilities were described. In this new method, the test sample is incubated in a sealed vial with a liquid culture medium containing a 14 C-labeled substrate. If bacteria are present, they break down the substrate, producing 14 CO 2 which is periodically extracted from the vial as a gas and is tested for radioactivity. If this gaseous radioactivity exceeds a threshold level, it is evidence of bacterial presence and growth in the test vial. The first application was for the detection of bacteria in the blood cultures of hospital patients. Data were presented showing typical results. Also discussed were future applications, such as rapid screening for bacteria in urine industrial sterility testing and the disposal of used 14 C substrates. (Mukohata, S.)

Rapid susceptibility testing of Mycobacterium tuberculosis by bioluminescence assay of mycobacterial ATP

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Nilsson, L.E.; Hoffner, S.E.; Ansehn, S.

1988-01-01

Mycobacterial growth was monitored by bioluminescence assay of mycobacterial ATP. Cultures of Mycobacterium tuberculosis H37Rv and of 25 clinical isolates of the same species were exposed to serial dilutions of ethambutol, isoniazid, rifampin, and streptomycin. A suppression of ATP, indicating growth inhibition, occurred for susceptible but not resistant strains within 5 to 7 days of incubation. Breakpoint concentrations between susceptibility and resistance were determined by comparing these results with those obtained by reference techniques. Full agreement was found in 99% of the assays with the resistance ratio method on Lowenstein-Jensen medium, and 98% of the assays were in full agreement with the radiometric system (BACTEC). A main advantage of the bioluminescence method is its rapidity, with results available as fast as with the radiometric system but at a lower cost and without the need for radioactive culture medium. The method provides kinetic data concerning drug effects within available in vivo drug concentrations and has great potential for both rapid routine susceptibility testing and research applications in studies of drug effects on mycobacteria

Automated analysis of damages for radiation in plastics surfaces; Analisis automatizado de danos por radiacion en superficies plasticas

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Andrade, C; Camacho M, E; Tavera, L; Balcazar, M [ININ, 52045 Ocoyoacac, Estado de Mexico (Mexico)

1990-02-15

Analysis of damages done by the radiation in a polymer characterized by optic properties of polished surfaces, of uniformity and chemical resistance that the acrylic; resistant until the 150 centigrade grades of temperature, and with an approximate weight of half of the glass. An objective of this work is the development of a method that analyze in automated form the superficial damages induced by radiation in plastic materials means an images analyst. (Author)

Foco Nasmyth para el telescopio 2,15mts. de CASLEO

Science.gov (United States)

Casagrande, A. R.

En principio, este proyecto intenta lograr el mayor aprovechamiento posible del instrumental que se dispone, buscando la manera de optimizar y hacer más eficiente el servicio que brinda el CASLEO a la comunidad astronómica. El mismo consiste en utilizar dispositivos ya existentes en el telescopio, y darle una utilidad. Tal es el caso del camino óptico destinado al foco Coude. Si tenemos en cuenta que disponemos de un tercer espejo Coude, con todos sus mecanismos automatizados, (actualmente sin uso), una distancia apropiada del plano focal, el espacio y el lugar físico necesario para instalar un periférico, es posible la habilitación de un foco Nasmyth en el telescopio 2,15mts. El hecho de contar con este nuevo foco, redundará en importantes beneficios. En primer lugar, posibilitará la observación, casi simultánea, con dos instrumentos. Otro aspecto a tener en cuenta, es que disminuirá el frecuente cambio del instrumental periférico, motivo este que degrada su ideal puesta a punto. Por último, también de interés, es de destacar su escaso costo de ejecución.

Condiciones objetivas y subjetivas de trabajo y trastornos psicofísicos

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Pulido-Navarro Margarita

2003-01-01

Full Text Available Se analiza la relación entre las condiciones laborales, los trastornos psicofísicos y la valoración sobre el contenido del trabajo en una industria químico farmacéutica en México. Se llevó a cabo un estudio transversal a través de la aplicación de tres instrumentos: una guía de observación del proceso de trabajo, una guía para valorar las condiciones de seguridad e higiene en la empresa y una encuesta epidemiológica (N = 377. Los resultados muestran un proceso laboral muy automatizado, pero con una organización del trabajo principalmente fordista. Se encontraron fuertes asociaciones entre conjuntos de exigencias y conjuntos patológicos. La percepción que la población en estudio tiene de su trabajo (valoración, satisfacción, contenido, apoyo social muestra relación con algunos daños a la salud. Se pudo concluir que tanto las condiciones objetivas de trabajo como las subjetivas juegan un papel importante en la generación de enfermedades en los trabajadores.

AUTOMATIZACIÓN EN NIVEL DE CONTROL DE PLANTA MEDIANTE EL USO DE HERRAMIENTAS LIBRES Y COMPUTACIÓN EN LA NUBE

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Leonardo Emiro Contreras Bravo

2015-09-01

Full Text Available El control del proceso de fabricación ofrece muchas herramientas para la optimización productiva de una empresa. Existen aplicaciones especializadas para integrar la información a nivel de planta con el de control de empresa, estos software están basados generalmente en sistemas altamente automatizados en los niveles de campo. La industria de muebles para oficina en Colombia está conformada por pequeñas y medianas empresas, con máquinas con un alto contenido de operación humana y baja automatización. El control de producción mediante informes en papel impide que se pueda tener una fotografía en tiempo real del proceso y la gestión puede ser lenta frente a las necesidades de la empresa. En este documento se presenta una alternativa de diseño de un sistema MES basado en herramientas libres y de computación en la nube, además se hace el planteamiento de implementación para la industria de muebles para oficina al ser integrada integrándola con un sistema CAD especializado llamado OffiCAD.

Condiciones objetivas y subjetivas de trabajo y trastornos psicofísicos

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Margarita Pulido-Navarro

Full Text Available Se analiza la relación entre las condiciones laborales, los trastornos psicofísicos y la valoración sobre el contenido del trabajo en una industria químico farmacéutica en México. Se llevó a cabo un estudio transversal a través de la aplicación de tres instrumentos: una guía de observación del proceso de trabajo, una guía para valorar las condiciones de seguridad e higiene en la empresa y una encuesta epidemiológica (N = 377. Los resultados muestran un proceso laboral muy automatizado, pero con una organización del trabajo principalmente fordista. Se encontraron fuertes asociaciones entre conjuntos de exigencias y conjuntos patológicos. La percepción que la población en estudio tiene de su trabajo (valoración, satisfacción, contenido, apoyo social muestra relación con algunos daños a la salud. Se pudo concluir que tanto las condiciones objetivas de trabajo como las subjetivas juegan un papel importante en la generación de enfermedades en los trabajadores.

Formação de classes funcionais de estímulos musicais

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Alex Roberto Machado

2009-04-01

Full Text Available O objetivo deste experimento foi verificar o efeito do treino discriminativo sobre a formação de classes funcionais de melodias em andamentos e modos diferentes. Nove estudantes universitários do 2° período da graduação em Psicologia foram divididos em três grupos: Modo, Andamento ou Misto. O software SomPsi, produzido especialmente para este estudo, treinou os participantes e gerou relatórios com informações sobre os desempenhos, nas quatro fases do procedimento. O treino proposto mostrou-se eficiente para a formação das classes funcionais de estímulos sonoros musicais. Observou-se que agrupamentos de estímulos pela propriedade andamento foram mais facilmente discriminados que os agrupados pela melodia. A manipulação combinada das duas propriedades, em condição convergente, permitiu desempenho superior dos participantes. A rápida formação de classes funcionais e equivalentes de estímulos musicais, a partir de procedimentos de ensino automatizado de relações condicionais entre estímulos musicais, indica a possibilidade de uso desse procedimento na iniciação à música.

Determinación del tamaño racional del bloque para la estimación de los recursos minerales en el yacimiento “Mariel”

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Orestes Gómez-González

2011-12-01

Full Text Available La calidad de la estimación de recursos minerales es uno de los temas más importantes en la industria geológica-minera actual. El desarrollo de los sistemas automatizados en este campo ha permitido un incremento en la calidad de las estimaciones en diferentes tipos de yacimientos, pero aún existen elementos de carácter subjetivo que influyen directamente en la precisión y exactitud de los cálculos, uno de ellos es el tamaño del bloque de estimación. Para la selección de éste se han utilizado fundamentalmente criterios de carácter económico y minero. En este trabajo se demuestra la influencia del tamaño del bloque de estimación en la precisión y exactitud de los recursos estimados, utilizando procedimientos conjuntos de estimación y simulación geoestadística. El procedimiento se aplica en el yacimiento Mariel de materia prima para cemento y la metodología propuesta puede ser aplicable a otros casos de estudio.

Ar-rahnu as a Source of Financial Sustainability for Women Micro-Entrepreneurs in Malaysia

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Nik Hadiyan Nik Azman

2017-02-01

Full Text Available Muslims in Malaysia had practiced ar-rahnu for fulfilling their financial need, especially for emergency purposes since early 1990s. The pioneer of ar-rahnu in Malaysia is Muassasah Gadaian Islam Terengganu (MGIT in January 1992, followed by the Kelantan Capitalization Berhad (PKB in March 1992. Both of these Islamic pawn centres are among the earliest exponents to the Islamic pawn scheme in Malaysia. Ar-rahnu is an increasingly popular financing option among micro-entrepreneurs in Malaysia, particularly women micro-entrepreneurs. Women micro-entrepreneurs play a vital role in the Malaysian economy and could be considered as the backbone of the industrial development in Malaysia. This study examines the role of ar-rahnu as a source of financial stability for women micro-entrepreneurs. 600 questionnaires were distributed at three states in Malaysia which are Kelantan, Terengganu and Kedah. Then, this study used SPSS and SEM Amos to analyses the data for 600 respondents (women micro-entrepreneurs in Malaysia. In essence, this study finds that shariah compliancy, locality, service charges, collateral and customer satisfaction has positive and significant impact towards the use of ar-rahnu. The study also found use of ar-rahnu has significant impact towards financial self-sufficiency for women micro-entrepreneurs.

Flexor Tenosynovitis Due to Tuberculosis in Hand and Wrist: Is Tenosynovectomy Imperative?

Science.gov (United States)

Kabakaş, Fatih; Uğurlar, Meriç; Turan, Derya Bayirli; Yeşiloğlu, Nebil; Mersa, Berkan; Özçelik, İsmail Bülent

2016-08-01

The treatment of flexor tenosynovitis in the hand and wrist due to tuberculosis is controversial. Although some authors recommend the antituberculous chemotherapy, the others recommend the surgical treatment. In this article, 12 patients with synovial tuberculosis of the flexor aspect of the hand and the wrist were evaluated with respect to diagnosis and treatment modalities. None of the patients had a history of tuberculosis, concomitant disease, immunosuppressive drug use, drug abuse, and human immunodefficiency virus positivity. A chest x-ray and family screening were performed in all of the cases, none had evidence of tuberculosis in the lung. The biopsy, histopathological examination, acid-fast bacillus staining, and BACTEC tuberculosis culture were performed. Antituberculous chemotherapy was initiated in patients diagnosed with tuberculosis by either histological or microbiological examinations. The patients did not undergo any further surgery after biopsy procedures. The lesions regressed totally in all patients after 3 months of treatment. Carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms and signs recruited at five months of treatment. In patients with flexor tuberculosis tenosynovitis, it is possible to achieve good results by applying only medical therapy after a biopsy, and without the need for further surgery.

DETECTION OF MYCOBACTERIUM TUBERCULOSIS IN BLOOD FOR DIAGNOSIS OF GENERALISED TUBERCULOSIS IN HIV-POSITIVE PATIENTS

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V. N. Zimina

2017-01-01

Full Text Available Objective: To study the informative value of the detection of mycobacteria in blood with the cultural method in patients with suspected tuberculous sepsis and to determine the most significant clinical and laboratory criteria for testing. Materials and methods: The investigation to detect M.tuberculosis was fulfilled in 159 HIV-positive patients with suspected tuberculosis sepsis. Blood culture was completed with culture medium Myco/F Lytic Culture Vials and analyzer BACTEC 9050. Results: Mycobacteria were detected in blood of 19 patients (11,9% of all patients: in 18 patients the growth of М. tuberculosis complex was detected (25,3% of all patients with diagnosed tuberculosis and in 1 patient it was Mycobacterium avium complex (0,6% of all patients. It was shown, that the probability of M.tuberculosis detection was especially associated with the severity of the disease, immunosupression (less than 100 cells/mkl, hemoglobin quantity less than 90 g/l (levels were determined through the seeking for the most significant cutoffs. It was not proofed, that meningoencephalitis develops more often in patients with proven bacteremia. There were no evident differences in detection frequency of mycobacteria in sputum between patients with tuberculous sepsis and without it.

Detection of mutation in isoniazid-resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis isolates from tuberculosis patients in Belarus

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Bostanabad S

2008-01-01

Full Text Available The aim of this study was to investigate the frequency, location and type of katG mutations in Mycobacterium tuberculosis strains isolated from patients in Belarus. Forty two isoniazid-resistant isolates were identified from sputum of 163 patients with active pulmonary tuberculosis. Drug susceptibility testing was determined by using CDC standard conventional proportional method and BACTEC system. Standard PCR method for detection of isoniazid resistance associated mutations was performed by katG gene amplification and DNA sequencing. Most mutations were found in katG gene codons 315, 316 and 309. Four types of mutations were identified in codon 315: AGC→ACC ( n = 36 85%, AGC→AGG ( n = 1 2.3%, AGC→AAC ( n = 2 4.7%, AGC→GGC ( n = 1 2.3%. One type of mutation was found in codon 316: GGC→AGC ( n = 1841.4%, four types of mutations were detected in codon 309: GGT→GGT ( n = 716.1%, GGT→GCT ( n = 49.2%, GGT→GTC ( n = 36.9%, GGT→GGG ( n = 12.7%. The highest frequency of mutations sharing between primary and secondary infections was found in codon 315.

Sistema de información automatizado de recursos humanos para una institución de educación superior

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Milagros Gómez de Gómez

2004-01-01

Full Text Available La presente propuesta es el diseño de un sistema de informacion para la direccion de recursos humanos de la Universidad Dr. Rafael Belloso Chacin, basado en los modelos teoricos planteados por sen, chiavenato, montilva, kendall y kendall. se contruyo sobre un diagnostico previo de la institucion en el cual participaron dos grupos: el primero construido por el personal directivo y el segundo por el personal administrativo.

Sistema automatizado para la vigilancia epidemiológica de la tuberculosis en la atención primaria en Cuba

OpenAIRE

Machín Gelabert, Anabel; González Ochoa, Edilberto; Armas Pérez, Luisa

1995-01-01

Se describe un paquete de programas para microcomputadoras con el objetivo de automatizar el Sistema de Vigilancia Epidemiológica de la Tuberculosis el cual permite almacenar, validar y procesar información para llevar un control más exacto de la Notificación y el Registro de Casos, así como del Control de Focos. Brinda facilidades para la actualización y búsqueda de la información y permite la edición de un conjunto de salidas para su posterior análisis y toma de decisiones.

Propuesta metodológica para construir sistemas automatizados de inspección visual industriales, con base en productos comerciales

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Luis Diego Murillo

2006-05-01

Full Text Available Las compañías industriales que desean automatizar sus procesos de control de calidad, no deben arriesgar sus recursos en investigación y desarrollo para sus propios sistemas de visión industrial, debido a que esto implica invertir gran cantidad de tiempo y dinero para obtener los resultados deseados. En los últimos años, han surgido sistemas comerciales de inspección visual, los cuales se han convertido en una verdadera opción para quienes desean solucionar sus problemasconcernientes al aseguramiento de atributos de los productos. El presente artículo propone unametodología de 12 pasos, para construir un sistema de inspección visual automatizada (avi a partir de la selección e integración de distintos componentes comerciales.

Titulador potenciométrico automatizado baseado em sistema de fluxo monossegmentado Automated potentiometric titrator based in monosegmented flow system

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Edgard Moreira Ganzarolli

1999-02-01

Full Text Available A new automated system for acid-base flow titrations is proposed. In the operation mode, several sample to titrant volumetric ratios are injected in an air segmented plug. Five three way solenoid valves and three acrilic junctions, assembled in a hidrodynamic injection system, were accountable for the monosegmented reagents plug formation. A turbulent flow reactor was used for a perfect mix of reagents in the plug. The detector system employed a glass combined electrode fitted in an acrilic holder. Titrations of hydrochloric, nitric and acetic acids, in several concentrations, were performed with standard sodium hidroxide, for evaluation of the efficiency of the system. The relative standard deviation of the determinations was about ±0,5% and each titration was carried out in 3-4 minutes. A Quick BASIC 4.5® program was developed for the titrator control.

Automated system for review of radiotherapy treatment sheets; Sistema automatizado pra la revision de hojas de tratamiento en radioterapia

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Collado Chamorro, P.; Sanz Freire, C. J.; Vazquez Galinanes, A.; Diaz Pascual, V.; Gomez amez, J.; Martinez Sanchez, S.; Ossola Lentati, G. A.

2011-07-01

In many modern radiotherapy services begins to leaf treatment implemented in electronic form. In our department has developed an automated reporting system, that check the following parameters: treatment completed correctly, number of sessions and cumulative dose administered. Likewise treatments are verified in the allocated separate unit, and over-writing table parameters.

Presencia en la Literatura Universal de charlatanes, sacamuelas y barberos

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Bernardo Manuel Núñez Pérez

2012-09-01

Full Text Available La Literatura Universal, fuente de información y conocimiento, medio para enriquecer el acervo cognoscitivo y cultural de los profesionales de la estomatología; recoge en sus páginas las raíces de esta profesión, manifestada en la labor que realizaron los charlatanes, sacamuelas y barberos, así como el papel que jugaron en su construcción y desarrollo. El objetivo de este trabajo es identificar la presencia, en estas creaciones, de la actividad desarrollada por ellos. Se realizó la búsqueda bibliográfica en libros impresos y automatizados en Internet, Google Académico, para lo cual se usaron los descriptores charlatanes, sacamuelas, barberos, dientes, boca. Se consultaron quince obras y seleccionaron ocho en cuyas páginas se recogen referencias al tema que nos ocupó. La información se organizó sobre la base del orden cronológico de los autores. El estudio de las obras de la Literatura Universal consultadas nos permitió reconocer excelentes descripciones de la actividad de los charlatanes, sacamuelas y barberos, los cuales constituyen raíces históricas de la labor de los profesionales de la estomatología.

Manejo automático de malla sombra y del riego en un invernadero con tomates

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Federico Hahn

2011-01-01

Full Text Available Los invernaderos son utilizados para muchas aplicaciones, no solo cultivos. Invernaderos automatizados requieren de un controlador que abra y cierre mallas reduciendo la radiación incidente evitando una evapotranspiración excesiva del cultivo. Este trabajo contempla el desarrollo de un controlador de mallas y de irrigación aplicada en función a la radiación incidente ahorrando 35% de agua en tiempo de lluvias; con nubes o con la radiación lunar nocturna no se enciende la bomba. Las mallas permanecían cerradas durante la noche abriéndose al amanecer cuando la radiación era baja. En el experimento realizado con tomates dentro de un invernadero se utilizaron meses intercalados para analizar la operación manual de mallas y la operación automática de las mismas. La radiación incidente en las plantas fue máxima en Mayo y Agosto meses en que no se usaron mallas de sombreo. En Agosto la temperatura del aire aumentó arriba de 28°C reduciendo en un 50% el tamaño de las frutas. La temperatura de los frutos disminuyó 2.5°C con el uso de mallas reduciendo el agrietamiento en el tomate.

El mercado de trabajo de los documentalistas en España: análisis de una muestras de ofertas de empleo, 1984-1994

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Montes López, Evelio

1995-06-01

Full Text Available A sample of 98 job advertisements for library and information work personnel published in two Spanish national newspapers between 1984 and 1994 is analysed. The results show that documentalist is the position more frequently offered by private companies. University degree qualifications and library science or information work training are generally required. More specific requirements include broad experience in library and information centres automation.

Se analiza una muestra de 98 ofertas de trabajo para documentalistas, bibliotecarios, archiveros y gestores de información, publicadas en dos diarios españoles de ámbito nacional entre 1984 y 1994. Más de la mitad de los puestos se dirigen a documentalistas, y corresponden a entidades del sector privado. En la mayoría de los casos se exige titulación académica de grado superior, así como algún tipo de formación complementaria en documentación, biblioteconomía o archivística. Entre los requisitos más específicos se valora, sobre todo, la experiencia en procesos y sistemas automatizados. Las funciones asignadas a la mayoría de los puestos son de carácter técnico.

Vigilancia del riesgo de ocurrencia de incendios forestales mediante estaciones meteorológicas de superficie

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I. M. Domínguez-Hurtado

2008-01-01

Full Text Available Para la estimación del riesgo de ocurrencia de incendios forestales se emplean diferentes variantes a nivel mundial, en este trabajo se propone un sistema de vigilancia para la detección del riesgo de ocurrencia de incendios forestales a partir de la información procedente de estaciones meteorológicas de superficie, debido básicamente a la carencia de salidas operativas diarias que evaluarán las condiciones de riesgo de fuegos a nivel nacional. Se emplearon los índices de Nesterov modificado y Monte Alegre, los cuales se estimaron a partir de los datos procedentes de las 68 estaciones meteorológicas de Cuba. A partir de dicha información se obtiene la salida mapificada diaria de cada uno de ellos, mediante la utilización de la técnica de interpolación bicubic spline. Se obtuvo un sistema operativo totalmente automatizado para la evaluación de las condiciones de riesgo de ocurrencia de incendios para Cuba, el cual brinda la posibilidad de completar y perfeccionar el sistema de vigilancia de fuegos, basado en la reducción de la escala temporal y el tratamiento de la información.

Interfacial Transformation of an Amorphous Carbon Nanofilm upon Fe@Ag@Si Nanoparticle Landing and its Colloidal Nanoscrolls: Enhanced Nanocompositing-Based Performance for Bioapplications.

Science.gov (United States)

Kim, Jeong-Hwan; Benelmekki, Maria

2016-12-07

We report a novel method for generating magneto-plasmonic carbon nanofilms and nanoscrolls using a combination of two gas-phase synthetic techniques. Ternary Fe@Ag@Si "onion-like" nanoparticles (NPs) are produced by a magnetron sputtering inert gas condensation source and are in situ landed onto the surface of carbon nanofilms, which were previously deposited by a DC arc discharge technique. Subsequently, a polyethylenimine-mediated chemical exfoliation process is performed to obtain carbon nanoscrolls (CNS) with embedded NPs (CNS-NPs). Of note, the carbon nanofilms undergo an interfacial transition upon addition of NPs and become rich in the sp 2 phase. This transformation endows and enhances multiple functions, such as thermal conductivity and the plasmonic properties of the nanocomposites. The obtained two-dimentional (2D) nanocomposites not only exhibit a highly efficient surface-enhanced Raman scattering property, allowing sensitive detection of malachite green isothiocyanate (MGIT) and adenosine-triphosphate (ATP) molecules at concentrations as low as 1 × 10 -10 M, but also show enhanced near-infrared-responsive photothermal activity when forming stable colloidal 1D CNS-NPs. In addition, the CNS-NPs present an enhanced single- and two-photon fluorescence in comparison with pristine CNS and NPs. These results make them suitable for the rational fabrication of "all-in-one" multifunctional nanocomposites with tubular structures toward a wide range of biomedical solutions.

Ampliación de ITSAT para la gestión de sistemas Windows y control de versiones en sistemas automatizados

OpenAIRE

Hernández Bertran, Marcel

2015-01-01

ITSAT és una aplicació web per a gestió i administració centralitzada d'equips d'àrea local. L'objectiu d'aquest projecte és dotar-lo de capacitat per gestionar màquines basades en sistemes operatius de la família Microsoft Windows.

Diagnóstico molecular de tuberculosis extrapulmonar y sensibilidad a rifampicina con un método automatizado en tiempo real

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Adrián Peñata

2016-04-01

Conclusión. La prueba Xpert® MTB/RIF tuvo un buen desempeño en muestras de diferentes tejidos y líquidos, y constituye un avance significativo como apoyo para el diagnóstico de la tuberculosis extrapulmonar en términos de tiempo y porcentaje de positividad.

El Computador, la Cibernética y la Teoría de la Información: De la Biomedicina a la Infomedicina

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José Felix Patiño Restrepo

1996-12-01

Full Text Available

El enorme acumulo de información y el arrollador avance de las comunicaciones, dos fenómenos característicos del siglo XX, han hecho que nuestra época sea llamada la era de la informática.

Se denomina informática a la técnica -algunos consideran que ya es una ciencia- que trata de la información, y más específicamente de la sistematización (médicos automatizados de la información. Y de los medios automatizados el computador es el paradigma.

El computador se ha convertido en un componente esencial del diario devenir: afecta todas las actividades de la vida moderna, incluyendo la ciencia, el trabajo, la salud, la educación, las finanzas, el transporte, el entretenimiento.

En cuanto a la aceptación universal del computador, se ha comparado la situación a la de la humanidad de hace casi 100 años, cuando apareció el automóvil. En un principio se lo consideró como una máquina exótica, compleja y lenta, tal vez con un potencial para el futuro. Hoy la humanidad acepta el computador y lo incorpora a su vida en forma tan universal como lo hace con el automóvil. Es un ente ubicuo en la sociedad actual.

Así como el automóvil es un amplificador de la capacidad de locomoción del hombre, el computador es un poderoso amplificador de su capacidad intelectual, pero también de su cultura y humanismo, por cuanto posee un potencial casi ilimitado para almacenar información, en multimedia (texto, sonido, animación, video, que la hace fácilmente asequible en tiempo real y sin límites de espacio ni distancia.

Tal como el ciudadano del siglo XVlII, el de la era de la razón, tendría gran dificultad en prever el cambio del mundo inducido por la electricidad, las telecomunicaciones, el transporte en jet y la biotecnología, los que vivimos a finales del siglo XX también encontramos difícil asimilar el impactode la grdTIfuerza evolucionaríaque está remodelando nuestro mundo: la fusión del computador con

De la extracción al modelado del conocimiento en un Sistema Basado en el Conocimiento. Un enfoque desde el agrupamiento conceptual lógico combinatorio (From the extraction to knowledge modeling in a Knowledge Based System. A logical combinatorial conceptual grouping approach

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Yunia Reyes González

2017-10-01

Full Text Available Resumen Elucidar y reproducir conocimiento es la tarea central en la construcción de los sistemas basados en el conocimiento; el sujeto de esta acción es el ingeniero de conocimiento. La adquisición del conocimiento a partir de expertos humanos, si bien necesaria e insustituible, en unas aplicaciones más en otras menos, ha presentado diversas dificultades que van desde la representación del sentido común hasta las excesivas demoras en la implementación y el mantenimiento de los sistemas. El proceso de adquisición del conocimiento requerido en un sistema basado en el conocimiento puede ser automatizado o parcialmente automatizado. La idea radica en lograr disminuir el tiempo de trabajo entre el ingeniero del conocimiento y el experto del área del saber en el sistema informático inteligente que se desea construir. En este artículo se presentan las potenciales que ofrece el agrupamiento conceptual lógico combinatorio tanto para la extracción como para la modelación del conocimiento en la construcción de este tipo de sistemas informáticos. Se presentan tres casos específicos de SBC en los cuales se emplean los conceptos en sus procesos esenciales: forma de representar el conocimiento y método de solución del problema. Este enfoque permite, entre otras ventajas, la automatización del proceso de extracción del conocimiento lo que posibilita independizarlo de los expertos humanos y acercar la teoría de los SBC a paradigmas más actuales donde se emplean técnicas como Big Data. English abstract Elucidating and replicating knowledge is the central task in building knowledge-based systems; the subject of this action is the knowledge engineer. The knowledge acquisition from human experts, although necessary and irreplaceable, in some applications in others less, has presented various difficulties ranging from the representation of common sense to excessive delays in the implementation and maintenance of systems. The knowledge

Dry matter digestibility of roughages and concentrates determined “in vitro” procedures Digestibilidade da matéria seca de alimentos volumosos e concentrados determinada por procedimentos "in vitro"

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Rui da Silva Verneque

2011-09-01

Full Text Available The aim of this work was to compare the values of in vitro dry matter digestibility of six classes of concentrates and roughages feeds, determined by the two-stage technique carried in individual digestion tubes or using an automatized equipment of fermentation (filter bag technique, FBT. In the second digestion stage of the technique it was also evaluated the effect of pepsin acid solution and the reflux with neutral detergent solution on the in vitro dry matter digestibility. For both studies the experimental design was completely randomized with a 2 x 6 factorial arrangement (in vitro procedures x food classes. The IVDMD values determined in tubes were close to those found by others authors and lower than those obtained by the filter bag technique. Standard deviation of in vitro dry matter digestibility means were, in general, lower when the individual tubes method were used. The procedure using reflux with neutral detergent was less expensive and time-consuming, and yield similar results when compared to those using the acidified pepsin digestion methodology. The apparent overestimated values of in vitro dry matter digestibility observed in the filter bag technique suggests that the recommendation of the automatized equipment will be dependent of new studies, with emphasis to the material used to make the incubation bags.Objetivou-se neste trabalho comparar valores de digestibilidade in vitro da matéria seca de seis classes de alimentos concentrados e volumosos, determinados pelo método de dois estágios, realizado em tubos individuais ou em equipamento automatizado de fermentação (incubadora in vitro. No segundo estágio da análise foi adicionalmente avaliado o efeito sobre a digestibilidade in vitro da matéria seca da utilização de solução ácida de pepsina ou do refluxo em solução de detergente neutro. Para ambos os estudos utilizou-se delineamento inteiramente casualizado, em esquema fatorial 2 x 6 (procedimentos in vitro x

Aplicabilidad del monitoreo de emisiones del arco eléctrico para el control de calidad en el proceso MAG-S Applicability of monitoring of electric arc emissions for quality control in MAG-S process

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Eber Huanca Cayo

2011-12-01

Full Text Available Garantizar la calidad en soldadura no es una tarea trivial. Para ello diversas inspecciones de control de calidad son realizadas, en detrimento, los costos y tiempos de producción se elevan. Existen diversos sistemas automatizados de soldadura, éstos son auxiliados por sistemas de control basados en el monitoreo de parámetros de soldadura. Sin embargo son reducidos los sistemas automatizados de monitoreo de calidad que en su mayoría son diseñados para el proceso TIG. Durante la soldadura, el arco eléctrico produce emisiones acústicas y electromagnéticas que se manifiestan como sonido y luminosidad. El objetivo del presente trabajo es mostrar que estas emisiones del arco pueden ser utilizados para el monitoreo de la calidad de la soldadura para el proceso MAG-S. Se realizaron múltiples experimentos de soldadura en posición plana donde se indujeron perturbaciones consistentes presencia de grasa y ausencia de gas de protección. En cada experimento se adquirió simultáneamente señales de tensión y corriente así como señales de emisiones del arco eléctrico. A partir de las emisiones acústicas y electromagnéticas en la banda de ultravioleta, se midió la frecuencia de cortocircuitos. A partir de la emisión electromagnética en la banda infrarroja se midió la estabilidad del proceso de soldadura. Los resultados muestran que las emisiones del arco pueden ser utilizadas para el monitoreo y detección de perturbaciones en soldadura y con el entendimiento de las variaciones de cada emisión podría identificarse determinados tipos de perturbaciones.Ensuring quality in welding is not a trivial task. For this purpose several quality control checks are performed, at the expense, costs and production times are increased. There are several automated welding systems and they are assisted by control systems based on monitoring of welding parameters. However, automated quality monitoring systems are limited and they are mostly designed for the

Evaluation of a rapid radiometric differentiation test for the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex by selective inhibition with p-nitro-alpha-acetylamino-beta-hydroxypropiophenone

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Laszlo, A.; Siddiqi, S.H.

1984-01-01

This study is an evaluation of a rapid technique for the differentiation of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex from other mycobacteria, using p-nitro-alpha-acetylamino-beta- hydroxypropiophenone (NAP) as a selective inhibitory agent. A total of 416 coded cultures, 234 cultures belonging to the M. tuberculosis complex and 182 cultures belonging to 35 other mycobacterial species, were tested in two laboratories for p-nitro-alpha-acetylamino-beta- hydroxypropiophenone inhibition to concentrations of 5 and 10 micrograms of NAP per ml in Middlebrook 7H12 liquid medium. Two testing modes were compared: the indirect, in which a large bacterial inoculum was used from an isolated culture on a solid medium, and the direct, which used a small inoculum from 7H12 medium. A decrease or no increase in daily 14 CO 2 output as measured by a BACTEC system was considered evidence of inhibition. The data presented show that a concentration of 5 micrograms of NAP per ml can effectively separate the M. tuberculosis complex from other mycobacterial species in 4 to 6 days. The direct test data show that, unlike other conventional biochemical tests, it does not require a heavy inoculum of mycobacteria and can therefore be performed soon after growth is detected by the radiometric method

Multicenter evaluation of the Sepsityper™ extraction kit and MALDI-TOF MS for direct identification of positive blood culture isolates using the BD BACTEC™ FX and VersaTREK(®) diagnostic blood culture systems.

Science.gov (United States)

Schieffer, K M; Tan, K E; Stamper, P D; Somogyi, A; Andrea, S B; Wakefield, T; Romagnoli, M; Chapin, K C; Wolk, D M; Carroll, K C

2014-04-01

(i) Evaluation of delayed time to blood culture extraction by the Sepsityper kit and impact of shipping pellets off-site for MALDI-TOF MS analysis. (ii) Comparison of Sepsityper and laboratory-developed extraction methods from a literature review. Using two blood culture systems (BD BACTEC and VersaTREK), we extracted 411 positive blood cultures using the Sepsityper kit to mimic a potential protocol for institutions without a MALDI-TOF MS. Extracted pellets were shipped and analysed on the Bruker UltraflexIII. Successful extraction of 358 (87·1%) samples was determined by the presence of detectable proteins. MALDI-TOF MS correctly identified 332 (80·8%) samples. Delayed time to extraction did not affect Sepsityper extraction or MALDI-TOF MS accuracy. The extracted pellets remain stable and provide accurate results by MALDI-TOF MS when shipped at room temperature to off-site reference laboratories. This is the first study to show that institutions without a MALDI-TOF MS can take advantage of this innovative technology by shipping a volume of blood to an off-site laboratory for extraction and MALDI-TOF MS analysis. We also performed a literature review to compare various extraction methods. © 2014 The Society for Applied Microbiology.

Differential inhibition of adenylylated and deadenylylated forms of M. tuberculosis glutamine synthetase as a drug discovery platform.

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A Theron

Full Text Available Glutamine synthetase is a ubiquitous central enzyme in nitrogen metabolism that is controlled by up to four regulatory mechanisms, including adenylylation of some or all of the twelve subunits by adenylyl transferase. It is considered a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of tuberculosis, being essential for the growth of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, and is found extracellularly only in the pathogenic Mycobacterium strains. Human glutamine synthetase is not regulated by the adenylylation mechanism, so the adenylylated form of bacterial glutamine synthetase is of particular interest. Previously published reports show that, when M. tuberculosis glutamine synthetase is expressed in Escherichia coli, the E. coli adenylyl transferase does not optimally adenylylate the M. tuberculosis glutamine synthetase. Here, we demonstrate the production of soluble adenylylated M. tuberulosis glutamine synthetase in E. coli by the co-expression of M. tuberculosis glutamine synthetase and M. tuberculosis adenylyl transferase. The differential inhibition of adenylylated M. tuberulosis glutamine synthetase and deadenylylated M. tuberulosis glutamine synthetase by ATP based scaffold inhibitors are reported. Compounds selected on the basis of their enzyme inhibition were also shown to inhibit M. tuberculosis in the BACTEC 460TB™ assay as well as the intracellular inhibition of M. tuberculosis in a mouse bone-marrow derived macrophage assay.

Differential inhibition of adenylylated and deadenylylated forms of M. tuberculosis glutamine synthetase as a drug discovery platform.

Science.gov (United States)

Theron, A; Roth, R L; Hoppe, H; Parkinson, C; van der Westhuyzen, C W; Stoychev, S; Wiid, I; Pietersen, R D; Baker, B; Kenyon, C P

2017-01-01

Glutamine synthetase is a ubiquitous central enzyme in nitrogen metabolism that is controlled by up to four regulatory mechanisms, including adenylylation of some or all of the twelve subunits by adenylyl transferase. It is considered a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of tuberculosis, being essential for the growth of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, and is found extracellularly only in the pathogenic Mycobacterium strains. Human glutamine synthetase is not regulated by the adenylylation mechanism, so the adenylylated form of bacterial glutamine synthetase is of particular interest. Previously published reports show that, when M. tuberculosis glutamine synthetase is expressed in Escherichia coli, the E. coli adenylyl transferase does not optimally adenylylate the M. tuberculosis glutamine synthetase. Here, we demonstrate the production of soluble adenylylated M. tuberulosis glutamine synthetase in E. coli by the co-expression of M. tuberculosis glutamine synthetase and M. tuberculosis adenylyl transferase. The differential inhibition of adenylylated M. tuberulosis glutamine synthetase and deadenylylated M. tuberulosis glutamine synthetase by ATP based scaffold inhibitors are reported. Compounds selected on the basis of their enzyme inhibition were also shown to inhibit M. tuberculosis in the BACTEC 460TB™ assay as well as the intracellular inhibition of M. tuberculosis in a mouse bone-marrow derived macrophage assay.

Leuconostoc Spp. Bacteremia in a Patient with Sigmoid Colon Cancer

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Havva Avcikucuk

2013-10-01

Full Text Available Leuconostoc species are opportunistic pathogens that rarely encountered as an infection agent. It has been reported that, this pathogen could cause infections especially in immunsupressive patients, after invasive procedures and antibiotic treatment. In this report, we aim to present a case with intrinsically vancomycin resistant Leuconostoc spp. that was isolated in blood culture. Fifty six years old male patient with type II diabetes mellitus and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease had been operated for sigmoid colon cancer one a half years ago. He was taken radiotherapy and chemotherapy right after the operation. The patient was admitted to our hospital with a complaint of stenosis in colostomy opening. Empiricial treatment was started for high fever. Gram positive coccus was reported in the blood culture(Bactec 9050, Becton-Dickinson, USA. The isolate was identified as Leuconostoc spp. with API 20 Strep (BioMerieux, French kit. Antibiotic susceptibility test was performed by the disk diffusion method according to CLSI (Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute recommendations. The isolate was found susceptible to linezolid and quinupristin-dalfopristine, while it was resistant to penicilin, ampicillin, erythromycin, tetracycline, vancomycin and teicoplanin by the disk diffusion method. Vancomycin resistance was confirmed by E-test (AB Biodisk, Solna, Sweden.

Bacteremia following dental implant surgery: preliminary results.

Science.gov (United States)

Bölükbaşı, Nilüfer; Özdemir, Tayfun; Öksüz, Lütfiye; Gürler, Nezahat

2012-01-01

The aims of this study were to investigate the incidence of bacteremia, bacteriology and antibiotic susceptibility against to causative bacteria associated with dental implant installation. 30 generally healthy patients were enrolled in this study. Blood samples were collected at baseline and at 30 minutes after dental implant installation and 24 hours after dental implant surgery. Blood samples were cultured in a BACTEC system. The isolated bacteria were identified using conventional methods. Antimicrobial sensitivity tests were performed by disc diffusion. No bacteria were isolated at the baseline and 24 hours after surgery, whereas the prevalence of bacteremia at 30 minutes after dental implant installation was 23%. The isolated bacteria species were Staphylococcus epidermidis, Eubacterium spp., Corynebacterium spp. and Streptococcus viridans. The Staphylococcus epidermidis, which was isolated in three patients, was found to be resistant to penicillin which is first choice of many clinicians. Our findings suggest that installation of dental implants can produce bacteremia. Within the limitations of this study, it can be speculated that the resistance of antibiotics may compromise the routine prophylaxis against infective endocarditis. Therefore use of blood cultures and antibiograms may be suggested in risky patients. The outcome of the present study should be verified using a larger patient group with varying conditions.

SOL: INNOVACIÓN ON-LINE

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Rubén Faúndez

2007-11-01

Full Text Available Las aplicaciones de simulación tienden a ser cada vez más cercanas a usuarios e industrias. Sin embargo, muchas de ellas no poseen ni la capacidad ni el conocimiento como para desarrollar internamente sus modelos de simulación. Por este motivo, y como una forma de apoyar la toma de decisiones basándose en modelos de simulación, se presenta la plataforma SOL (Simulación On Line. La metodología completa de trabajo, así como la interacción entre SOL, Empresa y Asesor, son presentadas. Su base de datos, los niveles de usuarios, sus funcionalidades, y la creación automatizada de información grafica y visual, también son explicadas. En el caso de aplicación, el uso de SOL para apoyar la toma de decisiones en una operación de movimiento de material, permite a los tomadores de decisión acceder a análisis robustos basados en información extraída de los modelos de simulación. SOL, al almacenar información, funcionar vía web, generar análisis automatizados y crear visualizaciones, permite cumplir con las expectativas de los usuarios respecto a una solución integral en simulación.

A função arquivística de avaliação documental no software livre de gestão documental Nuxeo

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Sérgio Renato Lampert

2017-04-01

Full Text Available Apresenta o estudo do Software Livre de Gestão Documental Nuxeo frente à implementação da função arquivística de avaliação documental. A análise da ferramenta possibilitou verificar o procedimento de instalação, apontando dificuldades e barreiras para os profissionais da informação que desejam instalar a solução. Considerando os pressupostos teóricos acerca da avaliação documental, buscou-se analisar a empregabilidade desta, na ferramenta, a fim de validar a aplicação da teoria das três idades. O exame das funcionalidades do Nuxeo permitiu identificar que o software não aplica de modo automatizado a função de avaliação documental. Apesar de não ser uma solução arquivística, conclui-se que o Nuxeo pode ser utilizado para a gestão de documentos digitais, uma vez que apresenta em sua estrutura metadados para avaliação documental. A análise de softwares de gestão documental, sob o viés arquivístico, possibilita aproximar o arquivista das Tecnologias da Informação e garantir o acesso futuro às informações em meio digital.

Avances en la regulación y control del estado térmico del horno alto

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Babich, A.

1997-04-01

Full Text Available An automated system of direction (SAD for the control of the thermal state of the hearth of the blast furnace is used, taking into account the interrelation existing between the pig iron temperature and its silicon content. By the magnitude of the thermal exergy of the process, which determines the heat work capacity the variations in the heating of the hearth can be valued and carried out the necessary control and regulation actions, such as the variations in the pulverized coal injection and in the sinter/coke relation in the melting bed of the blast furnace.

Se utiliza un sistema automatizado de dirección (SAD para el control del estado térmico del crisol del horno alto, teniendo en cuenta la relación que existe entre la temperatura del arrabio y su contenido de silicio. Por la magnitud de la exergía térmica del proceso, que determina la capacidad de trabajo del calor, se pueden valorar las variaciones de calentamiento del crisol y realizar las acciones necesarias de control y regulación, como son las variaciones en la inyección de carbón pulverizado y en la relación sinterizado/coque en el lecho de fusión del horno alto.

Análisis de la programación de la producción en el sector cerámico español

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Vallada, E.

2005-02-01

Full Text Available The Spanish tile industry is the European leader in terms of production quota and employs high production automated systems. However, this industry has not yet included necessary production scheduling flexible systems, taking into account demand evolution and competitors countries. In this work we analyze the results of a survey applied to industries in this field allowing us to characterize their operating systems and production scheduling problems. This is a basic analysis and prior to the development of suitable optimization methods that will permit higher competitiveness in the international sector.

El sector azulejero español ocupa el primer lugar en Europa por cuota de producción y utiliza unos procesos productivos altamente automatizados. Sin embargo, no ha incorporado todavía en su estrategia sistemas flexibles de programación de la producción, que tan necesarios son teniendo en cuenta la evolución de la demanda y los países competidores. En este trabajo analizamos los resultados de una encuesta a empresas del sector que nos permite caracterizar su sistema de operaciones y los problemas de programación de la producción. Este análisis es básico y previo a desarrollar métodos de optimización adecuados que permitan incrementar la competitividad del sector a nivel internacional.

The computer and the cement plant

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Peirce, S. W.

1966-06-01

Full Text Available Not available¿Cuál es la razón para que la dirección de la fábrica de cemento ponga sus miras en el computador digital? No cabe la menor duda que esta razón radica en la eficacia y en la obtención de un producto de calidad. En los últimos años el interés se está centrando en la producción de cemento de mejor calidad, haciéndolo tan eficiente y económicamente como ello sea posible. La competencia así lo ha determinado. Cada proceso de la fabricación fue consecuentemente examinado, aplicándose mejoras técnicas en una rápida sucesión. Uno de los principales resultados fue la tendencia hacia fábricas de mayor envergadura, con hornos más grandes y con procesos de funcionamiento que son cada vez más automatizados. El gabinete de control centralizado constituye hoy día una instalación, en lugar de una curiosidad. En compañía de él viene un nuevo paso de instrumentación digital y analógica y, más recientemente, el sistema de computador digital totalmente normalizado para mejorar la eficacia operacional.

Anomalies detection in asphalt pavements: a morphological image processing approach

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Diego Buchinger

2014-04-01

Full Text Available O sistema terrestre de transporte possui grande influência na vida moderna, mas a manutenção de cada quilômetro da rede rodoviária é uma tarefa difícil, dada a sua extensão. A avaliação das condições de estradas pode ser um trabalho cansativo se realizado sem auxílio computacional automatizado; por isso, sistemas semiautomatizados de análise de estradas foram criados. Neste artigo, um novo algoritmo baseado em visão para detecção de anomalias, tais como buracos e rachaduras, é proposto, usando processamento morfológico de imagens, baseado no conceito estatístico de intervalos de confiança. O algoritmo foi testado com 186 fotos, que foram pré-processadas por um algoritmo de segmentação de estradas, utilizando intervalos de confiança entre 0,1% e 10,0%. O melhor valor encontrado para o intervalo de confiança foi de 4% para cenários controlados – onde não há automóveis andando pela rua e não há sombreamento significativo – resultando numa acurácia de 84,00%, precisão de 75,68% e exatidão de 90,32%.

Nueva carrera Ingeniería Mecatrónica: trabajo integrado Ingeniería y Ciencias

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Ernesto Córdoba Nieto

2001-01-01

Full Text Available Las Facultades de Ciencias e Ingeniería y el Departamento de Diseño Industrial de la Facultad de Artes, de la Universidad Nacional de Colombia sede de Bogotá, ofrecen el programa de formación profesional de Ingeniería Mecatrónica con el propósito de fundamentar la innovación y el desarrollo de productos y procesos inteligentes en Colombia. La naturaleza de la mecatrónica es en esencia conocimiento y tecnología de carácter transdisciplinario que cubre los límites de la frontera común entre la mecánica, la microelectrónica, la computación (informática y el control automatizado. Así, la mecatrónica agrupa un conjunto de diversas áreas de la tecnología relacionadas con los sensores y los sistemas de medición, los sistemas de impulsión (o transmisión y operación, el análisis del comportamiento de sistemas mecánicos, los sistemas de control y los sistemas de microprocesadores y el correspondiente soporte de software. La creación de la carrera y la apertura del programa fueron autorizadas por el Consejo Académico de la Universidad Nacional de Colombia mediante los Acuerdos N° 014 y 015, respectivamente, del 22 de agosto de 2001.

Análisis de costes de producción con implementación de equipos automatizado tomando como ejemplo Mina Magdalena

OpenAIRE

Hernández Fuentealba, Carlos Andrés

2018-01-01

Se va a recopilar la información disponible relacionada a la primera mina de España con implementación de sistemas de automatización, Mina Magdalena. Es propiedad de MATSA y se encuentra ubicada en la localidad de Almonaster la Real, provincia de Huelva, España. Se va a realizar el estudio de la automatización alcanzada en Mina Magdalena, con la finalidad de estimar unos costos de producción, variando los costes de la operación de perforación y carga. Para el cálculo de estos costes se sup...

Sistema automatizado para aquisição de dados de umidade relativa do ar Automated system for relative humidity data acquisition

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Késia O. da Silva

2007-12-01

Full Text Available Devido à importância do ambiente na produção animal e vegetal e, portanto, controle ambiental adequado, o trabalho propõe como objetivo a construção de um sistema de aquisição automatizada de dados de umidade relativa do ar, utilizando-se de microcontrolador de dimensões reduzidas e de baixo custo. A calibração do sensor de umidade relativa foi realizada em três etapas de simulação desenvolvidas em laboratório: caixas perfuradas, dessecador sem tampa contendo sílica-gel em seu fundo e psicrometria. As etapas de calibração, utilizando situações naturais e artificiais, bem como as metodologias desenvolvidas, apresentaram resultados que permitem concluir que o sistema pode ser utilizado com segurança no monitoramento dessa variável.Due the importance of the environment in animal and crop production and therefore an appropriate environmental control, the main objective of this work is the construction of an automated system for relative humidity data acquisition, using a controller with reduced dimensions and low cost. Calibration was performed under natural and artificial conditions. The methodology showed results that the system can be used for monitoring this environmental factor.

Geoprocessing semiautomated applied to licensing of nuclear facilities; Geoprocessamento semi automatizado aplicado ao licenciamento de instalações do setor nuclear

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Oliveira, Aline Fabiane Gonçalves de

2017-07-01

In recent decades, Brazilian environmental legislation has undergone considerable evolution. This fact occurs concurrently with changes related to environmental studies, which aim increasingly to guarantee sustainability and environmental balance. Thus, it is important to use technological resources to optimize the environmental studies involved in the licensing processes. The present work sought to analyze and direct the application of geotechnologies (Geoprocessing) in environmental studies of the Local Report (RL) of the Center for the Development of Nuclear Technology (CDTN). The proposal to apply the Geoprocessing tools and the possibilities inherent to the Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technology, as a tool to subsidize the environmental studies in accordance with the requirements of the RL was aimed at contributing to the modernization of the stages involved in the process of Nuclear licensing, such as in the structuring and execution of environmental studies, as well as in the activities of environmental monitoring, always considering the precepts in force in the laws and resolutions and standards in force of the National Nuclear Energy Commission (CNEN) for nuclear licensing. In order to achieve the objective, the ArcGis application was adopted and one of its analytical tools Model Builder. This allowed the macro (schematization) of the methodology from the GIS tools applied, presenting as an advantage the efficiency and optimization of the execution time of the procedures in situations where it is necessary to apply the same routine of tasks, besides being editable, Which provides possibilities for adaptations and improvements. In order to achieve this objective, the applicability of the methodology was highly feasible, the model developed by Model Builder / ArcMap, provided a semi-automated process, and provided a flowchart that depicts the procedure to be performed in order to reach the Final process to make inferences and analyzes with greater agility. The importance for the CDTN in particular and the opportunity of this research are evidenced by the need to improve the instruments and procedures in the process of implementing and updating its own Local Report. (author)

Cromodat: sistema automatizado de gestión de datos sobre pacientes de diagnóstico pre y posnatal citogenético

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Jorge Ignacio Nazábal Cowan

1997-08-01

Full Text Available En el Departamento de Citogenética del Centro Nacional de Genética Médica, donde se realiza diagnóstico prenatal citogenético (DPC y estudio cromosómico a parejas con sospecha de cromosomopatías, se ha creado un programa nombrado Cromodat, implementado en Foxpro, que recoge en una base de datos de 4 tablas diferentes (ficheros con estensión DBF, según el tipo de muestra que posibilita la obtención del cariotipo, los datos clínicos de interés, nombre y dirección de cada paciente con el resultado de su examen, y que permite de forma sencilla y rápida, realizar operaciones como: añadir nuevos pacientes a la base de datos, localizar los ya incorporados por varias vías de acceso, completar la información sobre cada uno, listarlos de acuerdo con diferentes condiciones de búsqueda, e imprimir en una planilla los resultados de su estudio. Es posible también confeccionar e imprimir informes generales que correspondan a un intervalo de tiempo preseleccionado.A program called Cromodat has been created at the Cytogenetics Department of the National Center of Medical Genetics, where the cytogenetic prenatal diagnosis (CPD is made and the chromosomatic study of couples suspected of chromosomopathies is conducted. This program is implemented in Foxpro, and includes in a database of 4 different tables (files with DBF extension, according to the type of sample that allows the obtention of the karyotype, the clinical results of interest, and the name and address of each patient with the result of the examination. It also makes possible in an easy and fast way to perform operations such as: to add new patients to the database, to localize those already incorporated by several ways of access, to complete the information on each one, to list them according to different search conditions, and to print in a form the results of the study. It is possible to make and print general reports corresponding to a preselected time interval, too.

EVALUACIÓN DEL BIENESTAR EN VACAS EN UN SISTEMA DE ORDEÑE AUTOMATIZADO DURANTE LA ÉPOCA ESTIVAL. ESTUDIO DE CASO

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P. E. LEVA

2017-08-01

media fue de 70 ±12 rpm. La producción de leche fue de 28 ± 1,6 L v-1 d-1. El cortisol presento valores entre 10 y 48 ng ml-1. Los animales destinaron 25,1 % y 26,1 % a las conductas de comer y rumiar respectivamente y sólo 0,7% a beber. Los resultados preliminares indicarían la factibilidad de introducir sistemas robotizados combinados con métodos de mitigación del estrés.

Efficacy of amikacin and ciprofloxacin against clinical isolates of mycobacterium tuberculosis

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Satti, M.; Faqir, F.; Sattar, A.; Abbasi, S.; Butt, T.; Karamat, K.A.; Abidi, M.

2010-01-01

Background: Tuberculosis was a leading cause of death at the turn of the 20 century and continues to be one of the medical scourges of mankind. Before the availability of antimicrobial drugs the cornerstone of treatment was rest in the open air in sanatoria. The major breakthrough in treatment of tuberculosis came with the discovery of Streptomycin. Later, INH, Ethambutol, Pyrazinamide, Rifampicin were added to the arsenal. Objective of this study was to determine the sensitivity of clinical isolates of Mycobacterium tuberculosis against two second-line anti-tuberculosis drugs, Amikacin and Ciprofloxacin. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at Department of Microbiology, Armed Forces Institute of Pathology (AFIP) Rawalpindi. All routine clinical samples received for acid fast bacilli (AFB) in the Department of Microbiology, AFIP, Rawalpindi were processed by modified Petroff's technique and inoculated on Lowenstein Jensen (LJ) medium and Bactec 460 Mycobacterium tuberculosis culture system. After identification of M. tuberculosis sensitivity was performed against first-line anti-tuberculosis drugs. Then susceptibility of M. tuberculosis isolates against Amikacin and Ciprofloxacin was performed on LJ medium. H37Rv was used as control strain. Results: Results were interpreted using resistance ratio method. Out of 100 M. tuberculosis isolates, 98% were sensitive to Amikacin and 97% to Ciprofloxacin. Conclusion: Amikacin and Ciprofloxacin are very effective second line anti-tuberculosis drugs against tuberculosis isolates in our set-up. (author)

Molecular Genetic Analysis of Multi-drug Resistance in Indian Isolates of Mycobacterium tuberculosis

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Noman Siddiqi

1998-09-01

Full Text Available A total of 116 isolates from patients attending the out-patient department at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi and the New Delhi Tuberculosis Centre, New Delhi, India were collected. They were analyzed for resistance to drugs prescribed in the treatment for tuberculosis. The drug resistance was initially determined by microbiological techniques. The Bactec 460TB system was employed to determine the type and level of resistance in each isolate. The isolates were further characterized at molecular level. The multi-drug loci corresponding to rpo b, gyr A, kat G were studied for mutation(s by the polymerase chain reaction-single strand conformational polymorphism (PCR-SSCP technique. The SSCP positive samples were sequenced to characterize the mutations in rpo b, and gyr A loci. While previously reported mutations in the gyr A and rpo b loci were found to be present, several novel mutations were also scored in the rpo b locus. Interestingly, analysis of the gyr A locus showed the presence of point mutation(s that could not be detected by PCR-SSCP. Furthermore, rifampicin resistance was found to be an important marker for checking multi-drug resistance (MDR in clinical isolates of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. This is the first report on molecular genetic analysis of MDR tuberculosis one from India, highlights the increasing incidence of MDR in the Indian isolates of M. tuberculosis.

Salmonella Bacteremia Among Children in Central and Northwest Nigeria, 2008–2015

Science.gov (United States)

Obaro, Stephen K.; Hassan-Hanga, Fatimah; Olateju, Eyinade K.; Umoru, Dominic; Lawson, Lovett; Olanipekun, Grace; Ibrahim, Sadeeq; Munir, Huda; Ihesiolor, Gabriel; Maduekwe, Augustine; Ohiaeri, Chinatu; Adetola, Anthony; Shetima, Denis; Jibir, Binta W.; Nakaura, Hafsat; Kocmich, Nicholas; Ajose, Therasa; Idiong, David; Masokano, Kabir; Ifabiyi, Adeyemi; Ihebuzor, Nnenna; Chen, Baojiang; Meza, Jane; Akindele, Adebayo; Rezac-Elgohary, Amy; Olaosebikan, Rasaq; Suwaid, Salman; Gambo, Mahmoud; Alter, Roxanne; Davies, Herbert D.; Fey, Paul D.

2015-01-01

Background. Etiologic agents of childhood bacteremia remain poorly defined in Nigeria. The absence of such data promotes indiscriminate use of antibiotics and delays implementation of appropriate preventive strategies. Methods. We established diagnostic laboratories for bacteremia surveillance at regional sites in central and northwest Nigeria. Acutely ill children aged <5 years with clinically suspected bacteremia were evaluated at rural and urban clinical facilities in the Federal Capital Territory, central region and in Kano, northwest Nigeria. Blood was cultured using the automated Bactec incubator system. Results. Between September 2008 and April 2015, we screened 10 133 children. Clinically significant bacteremia was detected in 609 of 4051 (15%) in the northwest and 457 of 6082 (7.5%) in the central region. Across both regions, Salmonella species account for 24%–59.8% of bacteremias and are the commonest cause of childhood bacteremia, with a predominance of Salmonella enterica serovar Typhi. The prevalence of resistance to ampicillin, chloramphenicol, and cotrimoxazole was 38.11%, with regional differences in susceptibility to different antibiotics but high prevalence of resistance to readily available oral antibiotics. Conclusions. Salmonella Typhi is the leading cause of childhood bacteremia in central Nigeria. Expanded surveillance is planned to define the dynamics of transmission. The high prevalence of multidrug-resistant strains calls for improvement in environmental sanitation in the long term and vaccination in the short term. PMID:26449948

Novel, improved sample preparation for rapid, direct identification from positive blood cultures using matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight (MALDI-TOF) mass spectrometry.

Science.gov (United States)

Schubert, Sören; Weinert, Kirsten; Wagner, Chris; Gunzl, Beatrix; Wieser, Andreas; Maier, Thomas; Kostrzewa, Markus

2011-11-01

Matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) is widely used for rapid and reliable identification of bacteria and yeast grown on agar plates. Moreover, MALDI-TOF MS also holds promise for bacterial identification from blood culture (BC) broths in hospital laboratories. The most important technical step for the identification of bacteria from positive BCs by MALDI-TOF MS is sample preparation to remove blood cells and host proteins. We present a method for novel, rapid sample preparation using differential lysis of blood cells. We demonstrate the efficacy and ease of use of this sample preparation and subsequent MALDI-TOF MS identification, applying it to a total of 500 aerobic and anaerobic BCs reported to be positive by a Bactec 9240 system. In 86.5% of all BCs, the microorganism species were correctly identified. Moreover, in 18/27 mixed cultures at least one isolate was correctly identified. A novel method that adjusts the score value for MALDI-TOF MS results is proposed, further improving the proportion of correctly identified samples. The results of the present study show that the MALDI-TOF MS-based method allows rapid (directly from positive BCs and with high accuracy. Copyright © 2011 American Society for Investigative Pathology and the Association for Molecular Pathology. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Rapid identification of bacteria from positive blood culture bottles by use of matrix-assisted laser desorption-ionization time of flight mass spectrometry fingerprinting.

Science.gov (United States)

Christner, Martin; Rohde, Holger; Wolters, Manuel; Sobottka, Ingo; Wegscheider, Karl; Aepfelbacher, Martin

2010-05-01

Early and adequate antimicrobial therapy has been shown to improve the clinical outcome in bloodstream infections (BSI). To provide rapid pathogen identification for targeted treatment, we applied matrix-assisted laser desorption-ionization time of flight (MALDI-TOF) mass spectrometry fingerprinting to bacteria directly recovered from blood culture bottles. A total of 304 aerobic and anaerobic blood cultures, reported positive by a Bactec 9240 system, were subjected in parallel to differential centrifugation with subsequent mass spectrometry fingerprinting and reference identification using established microbiological methods. A representative spectrum of bloodstream pathogens was recovered from 277 samples that grew a single bacterial isolate. Species identification by direct mass spectrometry fingerprinting matched reference identification in 95% of these samples and worked equally well for aerobic and anaerobic culture bottles. Application of commonly used score cutoffs to classify the fingerprinting results led to an identification rate of 87%. Mismatching mostly resulted from insufficient bacterial numbers and preferentially occurred with Gram-positive samples. The respective spectra showed low concordance to database references and were effectively rejected by score thresholds. Spiking experiments and examination of the respective study samples even suggested applicability of the method to mixed cultures. With turnaround times around 100 min, the approach allowed for reliable pathogen identification at the day of blood culture positivity, providing treatment-relevant information within the critical phase of septic illness.

Antimicrobial susceptibility determined by the E test, Löwenstein-Jensen proportion, and DNA sequencing methods among Mycobacterium tuberculosis isolates discrepancies, preliminary results

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Maria Inês Moura Freixo

2004-02-01

Full Text Available Mycobacterium tuberculosis strains resistant to streptomycin (SM, isoniazid (INH, and/or rifampin (RIF as determined by the conventional Löwenstein-Jensen proportion method (LJPM were compared with the E test, a minimum inhibitory concentration susceptibility method. Discrepant isolates were further evaluated by BACTEC and by DNA sequence analyses for mutations in genes most often associated with resistance to these drugs (rpsL, katG, inhA, and rpoB. Preliminary discordant E test results were seen in 75% of isolates resistant to SM and in 11% to INH. Discordance improved for these two drugs (63% for SM and none for INH when isolates were re-tested but worsened for RIF (30%. Despite good agreement between phenotypic results and sequencing analyses, wild type profiles were detected on resistant strains mainly for SM and INH. It should be aware that susceptible isolates according to molecular methods might contain other mechanisms of resistance. Although reproducibility of the LJPM susceptibility method has been established, variable E test results for some M. tuberculosis isolates poses questions regarding its reproducibility particularly the impact of E test performance which may vary among laboratories despite adherence to recommended protocols. Further studies must be done to enlarge the evaluated samples and looked possible mutations outside of the hot spot sequenced gene among discrepant strains.

Sistema automatizado para la evaluación de la calidad en los laboratorios de diagnóstico con tecnología SUMA

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Alfredo Rego

2012-04-01

Full Text Available El Centro de Inmunoensayo (CIE es una institución dedicada a investigación-producción orientada al desarrollo y producción de reactivos e instrumentos para el diagnóstico médico, basados en técnicas inmunoenzimáticas que aprovechan la gran especificidad de la interacción antígeno-anticuerpo y las ventajas de las reacciones catalizadas por enzimas. Su línea principal es el Sistema Ultra Micro Analítico (SUMA, que consiste en una tecnología integrada por equipos y reactivos para la realización de los análisis inmunoenzimáticos a un bajo costo de ejecución, lo cual lo hace particularmente adecuado para los programas de prevención de la salud, en los que se requiere el procesamiento de un gran número de muestras. Con el objetivo de lograr la garantía de la calidad se han desarrollado durante más de una década diferentes sistemas de software que se han utilizado en el proceso de evaluación de la calidad en el trabajo de los laboratorios. Con el nombre de SAC 2.0, el CIE desarrolló un sistema para el control de la calidad que puede realizar el proceso evaluativo de forma totalmente automatizada, que ofrece prestaciones similares a los sistemas más avanzados que existen actualmente. En este trabajo se describen elementos considerados en su concepción, así como las ventajas obtenidas con la automatización, las cuales demuestran cómo la herramienta desarrollada constituye un componente de vital importancia para el adecuado funcionamiento de los laboratorios de la tecnología SUMA, ubicados en Cuba y en el exterior.

Systems automated reporting of patient dose in digital radiology; Sistema automatizado para generacion de informes de dosis a paciente en radiologia digital

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Collado Chamorro, P.; Sanz Freire, C. J.; Martinez Mirallas, O.; Tejada San Juan, S.; Lopez de Gammarra, M. S.

2013-07-01

It has developed a procedure automated reporting of doses to patients in Radiology. This procedure allows to save the time required of the data used to calculate the dose to patients by yields. Also saves the time spent in the transcription of these data for the realization of the necessary calculations. This system has been developed using open source software. The characteristics of the systems of digital radiography for the automation of procedures, in particular the registration of dose should benefit from patient. This procedure is validated and currently in use at our institution. (Author)

Concentração de anticoagulante, tempo e temperatura de armazenagem sobre os parâmetros hematológicos no hemograma automatizado

OpenAIRE

Oliveira,Aécio Carlos de; Ribeiro Filho,José Dantas; Guimarães,José Domingos; Silva,André Ricardo e; Dantas,Waleska de Melo Ferreira; Bonfá,Laila de Paula; Farias,Sheila Kreutzfeld de

2010-01-01

O estudo teve como objetivo identificar os efeitos do tempo de estocagem, da temperatura de armazenamento e da quantidade de anticoagulante sobre parâmetros hematológicos de cães. Foram utilizadas amostras do sangue de dez cães de raças variadas, clinicamente hígidos. As alíquotas foram colhidas com 1,8mg; 3,6mg; 7,2mg e 14,4mg de ácido etilenodiaminotetracético (EDTA) por mL de sangue, distribuídas em dois grupos: de 2°C a 8°C e temperatura ambiente. Após a coleta, foram avaliadas em...

THE ANTI-TB DRUG SENSITIVITY OF MYCOBACTERIUM TUBERCULOSIS FROM CEREBROSPINAL FLUID AND BONE TISSUE BIOPSY SPECIMENS OF PATIENTS SUSPECTED TUBERCULOUS MENINGITIS AND SPINAL TB IN DR SOETOMO HOSPITAL INDONESIA

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Ni Made Mertaniasih

2014-09-01

Full Text Available Tuberculous meningitis (TBM is an infection of meningens which potentially life threatening with significant morbidity and mortality. Spinal TB has the same problem with TBM, infection in bone and joint, the delayed diagnosis worsens the prognosis. The rapid and accurate diagnosis plus promt adequate treatment is essential for the good outcome. The aim of this research is to study the first line drug sensitivity of Mycobacterium tuberculosis isolated from specimens of cerebrospinal fluid from suspected tuberculous meningitis patients and bone tissue biopsy from suspected spinal TB patients. The method of this research is TB Laboratory examination in Department of Clinical Microbiology – Dr. Soetomo General Hospital, Indonesia, using the gold standard liquid culture method MGIT 960 System (Becton Dickinson and solid culture method with Lowenstein-Jensen medium. The specimens CSF from 50 TBM patients at January 2013 until May 2014. Positive isolate detection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex were 11 isolates (22%, which sensitivity 100% (11/11 isolates to Rifampin (R, Pyrazinamide (Z, Ethambutol (E, and Streptomycin (S; one isolate resistant to Isoniazid, sensitivity to Isoniazid 90,90% (10/11; and received 21 specimens of bone tissue biopsy which positive 5 isolates (23%, all isolates sensitive 100% (5/5 isolates to Rifampin and Pyrazinamide, and 1 isolates resistant to Isoniazid, Ethambutol, and Streptomycin, in which sensitivity 80% (4/5 isolates to Isoniazid, Ethambutol, and Streptomycin. The conclusion of this research is positivity detection 22% of CSF specimens, and 23% of bone tissue biopsy were low. All isolates sensitive 100% to Rifampin and Pyrazinamide, and 80-90% sensitive to Isoniazid.

La ordenación de los asientos bibliográficos en los catálogos. Hacia una normativa internacional

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Frías, José Antonio

1995-09-01

Full Text Available This paper deals with the issue of bibliographic entry filing related to the retrieval of the information contained in catalogues. The main problems created by the filing of automated catalogues are discussed and the codes drawn up by the Library of Congress, the British Library and the Library Association are analysed. The attempts made by two international organizations, IFLA and ISO, in order to achieve a higher degree of uniformity in the rules for catalogue and bibliography filing, also taking into consideration the use of computers in the treatment of bibliographic data and their international exchange, are described.

Se hace un planteamiento general de la problemática de la ordenación de los asientos bibliográficos en relación con la recuperación de la información contenida en los catálogos. Se exponen los principales problemas que presenta la ordenación de las entradas en los catálogos automatizados y se analizan los nuevos códigos elaborados por la Library of Congress, la British Library y la Library Association. Finalmente, se describen los intentos llevados a cabo por dos organismos internacionales, IFLA e ISO, para lograr un mayor grado de uniformidad en las reglas de ordenación de catálogos y bibliografías teniendo en cuenta la utilización de ordenadores en el tratamiento de los datos bibliográficos y el intercambio internacional de los mismos.

del espacio en la competencia entre centros comerciales

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Carlos Garrocho

2005-01-01

Full Text Available En este texto de geografía comercial se presenta el diseño y la aplicación de un sistema fácil de usar e interactivo que apoya la toma de decisiones locacionales de las unidades comerciales que desean establecerse en grandes zonas urbanas. El sistema, llamado Sadelcom (Sistema Automatizado para Apoyar el Diseño de Estrategias Locacionales de Unidades Comerciales, se basa en un modelo de interacción espacial que permite generar diversos escenarios de planeación comercial. Acepta como insumos archivos electrónicos de diversos tipos, incluidos los que produce el inegi; está integrado de manera transparente a un sistema de información geográfica, lo que facilita el cálculo de diversos insumos y la multiplicidad de sus salidas tabulares, gráficas y cartográficas; y es extremadamente rápido en su operación y en la generación de resultados. Sadelcom se puso a prueba en el contexto de la Zona Metropolitana de Toluca, y para ilustrar su potencial se generaron tres escenarios de planeación altamente complejos. Los resultados de las pruebas han sido muy alentadores, como se demuestra en el cuerpo del artículo, pero además generaron innumerables preguntas y complejas tareas de investigación, lo cual se advierte en la agenda incluida al final del trabajo.

Caracterización de la comunidad bacteriana aerobia en sanguijuelas (Hirudinea, Haementeria sp. (Glossiphoniidae y Oxytychus ornatus (Macrobdellidae de El Bagre, Antioquia = Characterization of the aerobic bacterial community in leeches Haementeria sp (Hirudinea: Glossiphoniidae y Oxytychus ornatus (Hirudinea: Macrobdellidae de El Bagre, Antioquia

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López Isaza, Laura Patricia

2012-01-01

Full Text Available Se ha incrementado el uso terapéutico de las sanguijuelas y se ha demostrado que ellas pueden inocular bacterias causantes de infecciones en el 20% de los pacientes. El hallazgo en Antioquia de dos especies de sanguijuelas promisorias para hirudoterapia motivó este estudio para identificar las bacterias en la superficie, la probóscide y el intestino de estos anélidos y evaluar su sensibilidad a antibióticos. Las sanguijuelas estudiadas se identificaron como Haementeria sp., y Oxytychus ornatus. Muestras de la superficie, boca e intestino de ambos anélidos se inocularon en agar sangre, agar sangre con ampicilina y agar eosina azul de metileno. La identificación de las bacterias y su sensibilidad a antibióticos se evaluaron por el método automatizado Vitek (Biomerieux®. Se hicieron en total 26 aislamientos pertenecientes a 12 especies de nueve géneros. Enterobacter cloacae fue la especie más frecuente en ambos anélidos. Las bacterias fueron sensibles a los antibióticos comúnmente empleados en las infecciones causadas por este tipo de microorganismos. Se sugiere hacer profilaxis con antibióticos en los pacientes que reciban terapia con los anélidos investigados e implementar los protocolos estandarizados para el lavado de los animales antes de su uso y para el aseo de los acuarios en donde se los mantenga.

Estado actual de la informatización de los procesos de evaluación de medios de diagnóstico y análisis de decisión clínica Current state of the informatization of the evaluation processes of diagnostic means and analysis of clinical decision

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Nelsa María Sagaró del Campo

2009-02-01

Full Text Available La creación de un programa informático para la evaluación de medios de diagnóstico y el análisis de decisión clínica demandó indagar detenidamente acerca de la situación actual con respecto a la automatización de ambos procesos, todo lo cual se expone sintetizadamente en este artículo, donde se plantea que el tratamiento computacional de estos métodos y procedimientos puede calificarse hoy como disperso e incompleto. Por la importancia y necesidad de disponer de un sistema automatizado y dadas las condiciones objetivas que propicia el actual desarrollo cientificotécnico, se aspira a lograr que el sistema desarrollado sea una herramienta novedosa, específica y potente.The creation of a computer program for the evaluation of diagnostic means and the analysis of clinical decision demanded to investigate cautiously on the current situation in regard to the automation of both processes, all of which is briefly exposed in this article, where it is stated that the computer treatment of these methods and procedures can be qualified today as disperse and incomplete. Due to the importance and necessity of having an automated system and given the objective conditions that propitiates the current scientific and technical development, it is hoped that the developed system is a novel, specific and potent tool.

Practicality of cardiovascular risk functions

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Jaume Marrugat

2016-12-01

Full Text Available Resumen Las estrategias de prevención de las enfermedades cardiovasculares necesitan refinamiento porque su incidencia se reduce muy lentamente. Las funciones de riesgo incorporaron los factores de riesgo clásicos (edad, sexo, consumo de tabaco, diabetes, presión arterial, y perfil lipídico básico en cohortes seguidas generalmente más de 10 años. Son razonablemente precisas para el cribado poblacional del riesgo de enfermedad coronaria exigido en las guías de práctica clínica. Clasifican a los pacientes en niveles de riesgo para concentrar un mayor esfuerzo terapéutico y preventivo en los de mayor riesgo, y en los que el número necesario a tratar y el coste-efectividad son óptimos. Proporcionar el riesgo relativo y de la edad vascular al paciente, le motiva a cumplir seguir tratamientos y estilos de vida. Alrededor del 20% de la población de 35 a 74 años tiene riesgo intermedio y requiere reclasificación a alto o bajo riesgo porque concentra 35% de eventos poblacionales de enfermedad coronaria. Se ensayan nuevos biomarcadores (bioquímicos, genéticos o de imagen para mejorar la precisión de las predicciones. Si los equipos informáticos de los sistemas de salud incorporaran el cálculo automatizado del riesgo se facilitaría la tarea preventiva del personal asistencial.

Sensibilidad antimicrobiana y caracterización de cepas de Streptococcus pyogenes aisladas de un brote de escarlatina

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Pedraza-Avilés Alberto González

2002-01-01

Full Text Available Objetivo. Evaluar la actividad in vitro de 13 antibióticos contra 47 Streptococcus pyogenes grupo A (SGA. Determinar la presencia de genes que codifican para exotoxina pirogénica estreptocóccica A (SpeA y serotipos con base en proteína M. Material y métodos. Estudio transversal hecho en el Centro de Salud Dr. José Castro Villagrana sobre un brote de escarlatina en el Colegio Espíritu de América, entre diciembre de 1999 y enero de 2000. El número de niños estudiados fue 137. Se extrajeron porcentajes de sensibilidad. La concentración inhibitoria mínima (CIM se obtuvo por microdilución semiautomatizada. Se utilizó un secuenciador automatizado de DNA para el análisis de variación de secuencias en los genes que codifican para proteína M y SpeA. Resultados. Todas las cepas fueron sensibles a beta-lactámicos y clindamicina; 12.7% fueron resistentes a eritromicina. El serotipo M2 fue el más frecuente, 27 del total. Prácticamente todas las bacterias (96% con el gen SpeA tienen el gen que codifica para el serotipo M2. Conclusiones. Debido a la reciente reaparición de infecciones por SGA se sugiere realizar estudios tanto de sensibilidad a macrólidos y beta-lactámicos, como de epidemiología molecular.

Asociación de los factores de riesgo con glaucoma primario de ángulo abierto en mayores de 40 años.

Science.gov (United States)

Gálvez-Rosas, Arturo; Serrano-Miranda, Aurelio Tirzo; Ridaura-Valencia, Carlos; Mundo-Fernández, Eva Elizabeth; Barojas-Weber, Everardo

2018-01-01

Determinar la asociación de las enfermedades sistémicas, así como la ingesta de alcohol y tabaquismo, con - glaucoma primario de ángulo abierto (GPAA) en adultos mayores de 40 años. Se revisaron los expedientes de pacientes mayores de 40 años de primera vez con diagnóstico de glaucoma que asistieron al servicio de oftalmología del Instituto Nacional de Rehabilitación. La información se consiguió mediante el sistema automatizado de información hospitalaria, que incluyó variables sociodemográficas y clínicas. Se creó una base de datos y se realizó el análisis con el programa SPSS V 20 . 1,020 sujetos, 548 (53.7%) con diagnóstico de GPAA, edad promedio 73.2 ± 11.16 años, y de ellos 193 (35.2%) varones y 355 (64.8%) mujeres. Se pudo establecer asociaciones significativas entre GPAA y edad (p = 0.000), diabetes mellitus (p = 0.056) e hipertensión arterial (p = 0.098), pero no se encontró asociación entre GPAA y cáncer, tabaquismo ni ingesta de alcohol. Es necesario realizar estudios de tipo causal más específicos para establecer de mejor forma las posibles asociaciones, y de esta manera llevar a cabo programas de prevención para su diagnóstico a edad temprana. Copyright: © 2018 SecretarÍa de Salud

PESQUISA DE CAMPYLOBACTER SPP. EM CARNES DE FRANGO COMERCIALIZADAS NA CIDADE DE CAMPO MOURÃO-PR

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Karina de Oliveira GONÇALVES

2012-04-01

Full Text Available A campilobacteriose causa um grande impacto na saúde pública em todo o mundo, sendo em muitos pa- íses a causa mais frequente de gastroenterite em humanos causada por alimentos. A principal fonte de Campylobacter são as aves, dessa forma, pode haver infecção pelo consumo de carne crua, mal cozida, contaminação cruzada no preparo dos alimentos ou por outros alimentos, como água e leite. O despreparo de muitos manipuladores de alimentos em relação a cuidados higiênicos é um dos fatores que favorece a contaminação dos alimentos, afetando principalmente ambientes como restaurantes, hospitais e indústrias de alimentos. Como o congelamento e a refrigeração têm o papel de conservar a carne em bom estado para o consumo, à detecção de bactérias viáveis nesta etapa é muito importante. Diante do exposto acima, o presente estudo teve como objetivo avaliar a ocorrência de Campylobacter spp. em frangos refrigerados comercializados na cidade de Campo Mourão-PR por meio do teste imunoenzimático pelo método ELFA (Enzime Linked Fluorescent Assay com o sistema automatizado VIDAS® campy. Dessa maneira, foi possível detectar uma contaminação de 79,16% em 24 frangos, confirmando a grande incidência de Campylobacter em carnes de aves destinadas ao consumo humano.

Estado actual de la informatización de los procesos de evaluación de medios de diagnóstico y análisis de decisión clínica Current state of the informatization of the evaluation processes of diagnostic means and analysis of clinical decision

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Nelsa María Sagaró del Campo

2009-08-01

Full Text Available La creación de un programa informático para la evaluación de medios de diagnóstico y el análisis de decisión clínica demandó indagar detenidamente acerca de la situación actual con respecto a la automatización de ambos procesos, todo lo cual se expone sintetizadamente en este artículo, donde se plantea que el tratamiento computacional de estos métodos y procedimientos puede calificarse hoy como disperso e incompleto. Por la importancia y necesidad de disponer de un sistema automatizado y dadas las condiciones objetivas que propicia el actual desarrollo cientificotécnico, se aspira a lograr que el sistema desarrollado sea una herramienta novedosa, específica y potente.The creation of a computer program for the evaluation of diagnostic means and the analysis of clinical decision demanded to investigate cautiously on the current situation in regard to the automation of both processes, all of which is briefly exposed in this article, where it is stated that the computer treatment of these methods and procedures can be qualified today as disperse and incomplete. Due to the importance and necessity of having an automated system and given the objective conditions that propitiates the current scientific and technical development, it is hoped that the developed system is a novel, specific and potent tool.

partir de contenidos preexistentes

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Leonel Iriarte Navarro

2005-01-01

Full Text Available La interoperabilidad se considera fundamental en los sistemas e-learning. Han surgido estándares basados en XML que facilitan métodos comunes de descripción, identificación y búsqueda de LO desarrollados bajo diversos formatos y plataformas, que garantizan su reusabilidad. En este ámbito se está imponiendo el Estándar SCORM desarrollado por Advanced Distributed Learning (ADL basado en propuestas de organizaciones como IEEE Learning Technology Standards Committee (LTSC, Learning Object Metadata Working Group y IMS Global Learning Consortium. Las plataformas e-learning más modernas utilizan los estándares antes mencionados para lograr la interoperabilidad entre los distintos sistemas, sin embargo existe mucho contenido útil, disponible bajo diversos entornos, que no está estructurado según los estándares, lo cual provoca serias dificultades para que puedan ser reutilizados. Por tal motivo se hace imprescindible la búsqueda de alternativas que permitan emp aquetar dichos contenidos de modo que puedan ser importados y utilizados en las diversas plataformas existentes. Se propone un procedimiento automatizado que permite construir Bibliotecas Digitales compuestas por Objetos de aprendizaje a partir de estructuras de contenidos desarrolladas previamente. Se han desarrollado herramientas que facilitan este proceso. Se ha aplicado a contenidos desarrollados sobre una plataforma para la enseñanza del español, obteniéndose como resultado una Biblioteca Digital Multimedia de LO.

IMPLEMENTACIÓN DEL LABORATORIO CLÍNICO MODERNO

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CECILIA Tapia P., DRA.

2015-11-01

Full Text Available La implementación de un laboratorio clínico moderno es una necesidad actual debido a una creciente solicitud de exámenes, la necesidad de nuevas prestaciones, mayores exigencias en términos de la calidad y un mayor cuidado del medioambiente. Para lograr esta implementación es necesaria la planificación del espacio físico y de la infraestructura, que incluye revisión de la normativa actual y de guías nacionales e internacionales para garantizar un uso adecuado del espacio acorde con el equipamiento. Además, requiere la incorporación de sistemas preanalíticos y equipo automatizado e integrado con el sistema informático que permita el procesamiento de un número importante de muestras, y su trazabilidad. Una vez montados los equipos es necesario asegurar un correcto flujo de trabajo y de muestras que optimice el tiempo de procesamiento y la fluidez del sistema. En relación al cuidado medio ambiental, debe haber un adecuado manejo de los deshechos y un uso racional del papel. Todos estos elementos deben enmarcarse en un Sistema de Gestión de la Calidad para asegurar una mejor calidad de atención, resultados confiables y oportunos, facilidad de acceso a la información, estandarización de los procesos, sistemas de alerta y trabajo en un ambiente bioseguro.

Adaptação hematológica de bezerras Holandesas durante o período neonatal

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Sylvia Marquart Fontes Novo

2015-09-01

Full Text Available Foi avaliado o perfil hematológico de bezerros da raça Holandesa durante o primeiro mês de vida. Foram colhidas 208 amostras de sangue total de 26 bezerras(os do nascimento aos trinta dias de vida. Os valores hematológicos foram determinados por sistema automatizado associado à contagem diferencial dos leucócitos por metodologia manual. Foram detectadas variações nos componentes do hemograma do nascimento aos 30 dias de vida, exceto para os teores de hemoglobina (Hb e concentração hemoglobínica corpuscular média (CHCM. Os maiores valores do hematócrito, volume corpuscular médio (VCM e hemoglobina corpuscular média (HCM foram observados ao nascimento, com decréscimo nos momentos subsequentes. Nos primeiros dias de vida foi observada leucocitose por neutrofilia e eosinopenia e com o avançar da idade houve aumento gradativo dos linfócitos. Com base nos resultados obtidos pode-se concluir que a adaptação dos bezerros no período pós-neonatal foi caracterizada por variações nos componentes do hemograma, observando-se hemoconcentração e padrão leucocitário compatível com resposta aos glicocorticoides até o 4º dia de vida, responsável pela relação neutrófilo-linfócito > 1,0 ao nascimento.

Análisis sistémico de la tarea de dosificación de hornadas en HAE en condiciones de utilización de mineral de manganeso. // Systemic analysis of the task of dosage of batches in HAE under use of manganese mineral conditions.

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E. E. Navas Medina

2008-01-01

Full Text Available En el presente trabajo se exponen los resultados obtenidos hasta el momento en el proceso de Análisis y Síntesis de unsistema automatizado para la dosificación de hornadas de acero al carbono en hornos de arco eléctrico. El proceso deAnálisis Interno realizado incluye la experimentación en condiciones fabriles y la elaboración del modelo matemático de lacinética del proceso de asimilación del manganeso por el metal. Aunque hasta el momento el sistema desarrollado noincluye la optimización del proceso, del análisis realizado no resulta difícil elaborar el procedimiento de optimizaciónrequerido.Palabras claves: Acero al carbono, hornos de arco eléctricos, mineral de manganeso, sistemas de ingeniería,operación de procesos.______________________________________________________________________________Abstract:In this work the results obtained until the moment in the process of the Analysis and Synthesis of an automated system forthe dosage of carbon steel heats in electric arc furnaces exposed. The Internal Analysis process carried out includes theexperimentation in industrial conditions and the elaboration of the mathematical model of the kinetics of manganeseassimilation by the metal. Although until the moment the developed system doesn't include the optimization algorithm,from the analysis carried out it is not difficult to elaborate the required procedure.Key words: Carbon steel production, electric arc furnaces, manganese mineral, engineering systems,processes operation.

Establecimiento in vitro y cultivo de células de la uña de gato (Uncaria tomentosa (Willd. D.C.

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Silvana Alvarenga Venutolo

2010-12-01

Full Text Available La Uncaria tomentosa (Willd. D.C., (uñade gato es una liana del bosque tropical,que se distribuye en forma natural en lazona Atlántica de Costa Rica, a alturasmenores de 600 msnm. La infusión dela corteza de la raíz forma parte delacervo de la medicina tradicional deCosta Rica para aliviar diversas dolencias,como son: la gastritis, la artritis; además,funciona como fortificante del sistemainmunológico y, recientemente, para tratarel cáncer y el VIH.El cultivo in vitro sedesarrolló como una herramienta para lamicropropagación de plantas en la zonade Guápiles (Pococí, como estrategiade conservación para la explotacióncomercial sostenible de la especie. En esteartículo se describen los protocolos para elestablecimiento y la micropropagación apartir de microestacas, en un medio M & S(1962 con 2 mg/L de BA, 3% de sacarosay 7 g/L de agar; así como la germinaciónin vitro en el mismo medio M & S (1962semi sólido (1,8 g/L de Phyta-Gel.Se probó el cultivo en medio líquido, en jarrasfermentadoras y en sistemas de inmersióntemporal automatizado (RITA®, y fueefectivo el método de inmersión cada treshoras, durante tres minutos. Se describe elproceso de aclimatación, el crecimiento ydesarrollo de las vitroplantas.

Parâmetros de produtividade de um centro de material e esterilização Los parametros de productividad del centro de material y esterilización Productivity indicators in a sterilization central supply

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Tânia Regina Sancinetti

2007-06-01

Full Text Available O estudo identifica parâmetros de produtividade no Centro de Material e Esterilização, com base em documentos, observação e cronometragem do processamento de duas amostras: caixa de herniorrafia e pacote de curativo. A produção média mensal foi de 30.466,42 artigos, a capacidade de produção, por hora, foi de 10,3 artigos por funcionário. O tempo de processamento do curativo do expurgo ao armazenamento foi, em média, de 295 minutos; o processo manual utilizou 46 minutos e o automatizado, 88 minutos. O tempo da caixa de herniorrafia foi de 329 minutos; o processo manual utilizou 60 minutos e o automatizado, 98 minutos. O processamento manual do curativo utilizou 59,23% horas produtivas no expurgo; 26,31% guarda e distribuição; 10,94% esterilização e 3,28% preparo. Quanto à caixa de herniorrafia: no preparo 16,20%; no expurgo 11,84%; na guarda e distribuição 7,47% e na esterilização 1,89%. Este estudo possibilitou aferir resultados e analisar o processo de trabalho no CME.El estudio identifica parámetros de productividad del Centro de Material y Esterilización, basados en documentos, observación y cronometraje procesadas en dos muestras: caja de herniorafia y fardo de curativo. El promedio de producción mensual fue de 30.466,42 artículos y el promedio de la capacidad de producción por hora fue 10,3 artículos por empleado. El tiempo de procesamiento del curativo del expurgo al almacenamiento fue en un promedio de 295 minutos; su proceso manual utilizó 46 minutos y lo automatizó en 88 minutos. El tiempo de la caja de herniorafia fue 329 minutos; su proceso manual utilizó 60 minutos y lo automatizó en 98 minutos. El procesamiento manual del curativo fue: 59,23% horas productivas encima del expurgo; 26,31% guarda y distribución; 10,94% esterilización y 3,28% preparo. Cuanto a la caja de herniorafia: en su preparo 16,20%; en el expurgo 11,84%; en la custodia y asignación 7,47% y en la esterilización 1,89%. El estudio

Resíduos químicos produzidos em equipamentos de análises hematológicas: conhecimento e práticas nos laboratórios Chemical waste produced by hematological analysis equipment: awareness and practices in laboratories

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Eliana Mara Fortunato de Lucena Reynaldo

2012-02-01

Full Text Available INTRODUÇÃO: O aumento de tecnologia e equipamentos automatizados em laboratórios de análises clínicas permitiu ampliar significativamente a capacidade de análises e processamento de informações. Entretanto, aumentou também na mesma proporção a utilização de reagentes químicos nas análises, gerando resíduos que, se descartados de forma incorreta, causam sérios danos ao meio ambiente. OBJETIVO: avaliar a informação e a conscientização dos profissionais de laboratórios de análises clínicas em relação a possíveis danos ambientais causados pelos resíduos químicos produzidos, forma de descarte adotada e interesse em receber informações relacionadas. MATERIAL E MÉTODOS: Foram realizadas entrevistas, estruturadas em questionário, para obter a quantidade de análises hematológicas realizadas na cidade de Curitiba/PR, o modo de descarte dos resíduos gerados pelos equipamentos automatizados e, também, para inferir sobre o conhecimento dos profissionais quanto à formulação das soluções, à forma recomendada de descarte e ao potencial para causar danos ao meio ambiente. RESULTADOS E CONCLUSÃO: A maioria (80% dos profissionais de laboratórios de análises clínicas acredita ser responsável pelo resíduo produzido, no entanto não possui conhecimento sobre a questão. Esse desconhecimento propicia práticas inadequadas em 47% dos laboratórios pesquisados, que descartam o resíduo diretamente na rede coletora de esgotos. Para evitar a contaminação biológica, 20% dos laboratórios tratam os resíduos com hipoclorito antes de descartá-los na rede coletora de esgoto, e apenas 12% deles possuem tratamento para efluentes, porém esse tipo de procedimento realizado é desconhecido.INTRODUCTION: The widespread use of technology and automated equipment in clinical laboratories has allowed to expand analysis capacity and information processing significantly. However, it has also augmented the use of chemical reagents in

Evaluación externa de la calidad analítica en hematología: una necesidad en América Latina

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Fink Nilda E.

1997-01-01

ón (CV de hematocrito (4,5%, recuento de glóbulos rojos (11,0% y recuento de glóbulos blancos (22,2% más altos que los coeficientes obtenidos en los Estados Unidos de América y Europa. En función del procedimiento analítico, los métodos manuales arrojaron CV mayores que los métodos automatizados. Los datos discriminados por país y por procedimiento analítico, sometidos a un análisis de la varianza (ANOVA, mostraron significación estadística solo para el recuento leucocitario (P < 0,02. Se concluye que el adiestramiento en la preparación de materiales de control de calidad y su utilización posterior en encuestas piloto puede constituir la base inicial para establecer sistemas permanentes de evaluación interna y externa de la calidad en hematología que, junto con la educación continua del personal y la disponibilidad de instrumental automatizado, permitan alcanzar el objetivo de calidad óptima en el laboratorio.

Balanço hídrico em Neossolo regolítico cultivado com braquiária (Brachiaria Decumbens Stapf

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Renan Almeida Brito da Silva

2014-02-01

Full Text Available Um dos principais fatores de produção para as culturas é a disponibilidade de água no solo, de forma que a quantificação das entradas e saídas dessa água, por meio do método do balanço hídrico, pode ser um instrumento valioso para melhorar o manejo dado a ela. Desse modo, este trabalho teve como objetivo analisar os componentes do balanço hídrico (variação do armazenamento de água no solo, drenagem, ascensão capilar e evapotranspiração e o perfil do sistema radicular em Brachiaria decumbens, em nove meses do ano de 2011 (março a novembro. Também foi avaliada a razão entre evapotranspiração (ET e evapotranspiração de referência (ETo. Esta pesquisa foi realizada na fazenda Riacho do Papagaio, em São João, na mesorregião do Agreste do Estado de Pernambuco, onde foram instalados sensores automatizados para medição da umidade volumétrica do solo nas profundidades de 0,10; 0,20; 0,30; e 0,40 m. A precipitação pluvial foi monitorada por meio de um pluviógrafo automatizado instalado numa torre no centro da área. Para a determinação da drenagem e da ascensão capilar, foram realizados ensaios de infiltração para obtenção da condutividade hidráulica do solo, além da determinação da curva de retenção, em laboratório. A ET foi obtida como termo residual da equação do balanço hídrico e a ETo, pelo método de Penman-Monteith. O volume de controle utilizado para o balanço hídrico teve como limite superior a superfície do solo e como limite inferior a profundidade de 0,30 m. Também foi analisado o perfil do sistema radicular da braquiária, mensalmente. Observou-se que os períodos com elevadas pluviosidades resultaram num maior armazenamento de água no solo, em maiores valores de drenagem e de evapotranspiração. O fluxo de água no limite inferior (z = 0,30 m do solo ocorreu somente no sentido descendente, sendo perdidos 103,14 mm de água por drenagem, o que representa 24,12 % de toda a �

Avaliação da análise microscópica tradicional e do analisador automatizado IQ200R no exame de urina

OpenAIRE

Henneberg, José Ricardo

2014-01-01

Orientador : Prof. Dr. Aguinaldo José do Nascimento Co-orientadora : Profª. Drª. Aline Borsato Hauser Dissertação (mestrado) - Universidade Federal do Paraná, Setor de Ciências da Saúde, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Farmacêuticas. Defesa: Curitiba, 05/09/2014 Inclui referências Área de concentração: Análises clínicas Resumo: A análise de urina é um dos exames mais solicitados na rotina laboratorial, por ser um procedimento não invasivo, com facilidade na obtenção da am...

Diseño, construcción e implementación de modelos matemáticos para el control automatizado de inventaríos

OpenAIRE

Flores Sanchez, Miguel Alfonso; Sandoya Sanchez, Fernando

2009-01-01

En el presente artículo se presenta una síntesis del diseño e implementación de una sistema informático para el análisis, control y planificación de inventarios, basado en las técnicas de optimización. Se implementaron cuatro modelos matemáticos para determinar la cantidad óptima de pedido y el nivel de reordenamiento, desarrollado bajo el lenguaje de programación Visual Basic 6.0 incluidas las herramientas que este presenta para la creación de componentes de código Active X, además se utiliz...

Implantação de sistemas automatizados em unidades de informação: a operacionalização da gestão

OpenAIRE

Morato-do-Amaral, Roniberto; Zafalon, Zaira-Regina

2009-01-01

They get up some issues about the deployment of automated processes in information units. They present critical points to consider in managing this process. Are considered basic needs before the removal of the system, deployment planning, organization of work, implementation plan and monitoring and evaluation of results. Discusses technology options and costs to operationalize the process of implantation and the upgrade of automated systems.

Efficacy of various pasteurization time-temperature conditions in combination with homogenization on inactivation of Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis in milk.

Science.gov (United States)

Grant, Irene R; Williams, Alan G; Rowe, Michael T; Muir, D Donald

2005-06-01

The effect of various pasteurization time-temperature conditions with and without homogenization on the viability of Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis was investigated using a pilot-scale commercial high-temperature, short-time (HTST) pasteurizer and raw milk spiked with 10(1) to 10(5) M. avium subsp. paratuberculosis cells/ml. Viable M. avium subsp. paratuberculosis was cultured from 27 (3.3%) of 816 pasteurized milk samples overall, 5 on Herrold's egg yolk medium and 22 by BACTEC culture. Therefore, in 96.7% of samples, M. avium subsp. paratuberculosis had been completely inactivated by HTST pasteurization, alone or in combination with homogenization. Heat treatments incorporating homogenization at 2,500 lb/in2, applied upstream (as a separate process) or in hold (at the start of a holding section), resulted in significantly fewer culture-positive samples than pasteurization treatments without homogenization (P HTST pasteurization with or without homogenization was estimated to be 4.0 to 5.2 log10. The impact of homogenization on clump size distribution in M. avium subsp. paratuberculosis broth suspensions was subsequently assessed using a Mastersizer X spectrometer. These experiments demonstrated that large clumps of M. avium subsp. paratuberculosis cells were reduced to single-cell or "miniclump" status by homogenization at 2,500 lb/in2. Consequently, when HTST pasteurization was being applied to homogenized milk, the M. avium subsp. paratuberculosis cells would have been present as predominantly declumped cells, which may possibly explain the greater inactivation achieved by the combination of pasteurization and homogenization.

Efficacy of Various Pasteurization Time-Temperature Conditions in Combination with Homogenization on Inactivation of Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis in Milk

Science.gov (United States)

Grant, Irene R.; Williams, Alan G.; Rowe, Michael T.; Muir, D. Donald

2005-01-01

The effect of various pasteurization time-temperature conditions with and without homogenization on the viability of Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis was investigated using a pilot-scale commercial high-temperature, short-time (HTST) pasteurizer and raw milk spiked with 101 to 105 M. avium subsp. paratuberculosis cells/ml. Viable M. avium subsp. paratuberculosis was cultured from 27 (3.3%) of 816 pasteurized milk samples overall, 5 on Herrold's egg yolk medium and 22 by BACTEC culture. Therefore, in 96.7% of samples, M. avium subsp. paratuberculosis had been completely inactivated by HTST pasteurization, alone or in combination with homogenization. Heat treatments incorporating homogenization at 2,500 lb/in2, applied upstream (as a separate process) or in hold (at the start of a holding section), resulted in significantly fewer culture-positive samples than pasteurization treatments without homogenization (P pasteurization with or without homogenization was estimated to be 4.0 to 5.2 log10. The impact of homogenization on clump size distribution in M. avium subsp. paratuberculosis broth suspensions was subsequently assessed using a Mastersizer X spectrometer. These experiments demonstrated that large clumps of M. avium subsp. paratuberculosis cells were reduced to single-cell or “miniclump” status by homogenization at 2,500 lb/in2. Consequently, when HTST pasteurization was being applied to homogenized milk, the M. avium subsp. paratuberculosis cells would have been present as predominantly declumped cells, which may possibly explain the greater inactivation achieved by the combination of pasteurization and homogenization. PMID:15932977

A pilot study of short-duration sputum pretreatment procedures for optimizing smear microscopy for tuberculosis.

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Peter Daley

2009-05-01

Full Text Available Direct sputum smear microscopy for tuberculosis (TB lacks sensitivity for the detection of acid fast bacilli. Sputum pretreatment procedures may enhance sensitivity. We did a pilot study to compare the diagnostic accuracy and incremental yield of two short-duration (<1 hour sputum pretreatment procedures to optimize direct smears among patients with suspected TB at a referral hospital in India.Blinded laboratory comparison of bleach and universal sediment processing (USP pretreated centrifuged auramine smears to direct Ziehl-Neelsen (ZN and direct auramine smears and to solid (Loweinstein-Jensen (LJ and liquid (BACTEC 460 culture. 178 pulmonary and extrapulmonary TB suspects were prospectively recruited during a one year period. Thirty six (20.2% were positive by either solid or liquid culture. Direct ZN smear detected 22 of 36 cases and direct auramine smears detected 26 of 36 cases. Bleach and USP centrifugation detected 24 cases each, providing no incremental yield beyond direct smears. When compared to combined culture, pretreated smears were not more sensitive than direct smears (66.6% vs 61.1 (ZN or 72.2 (auramine, and were not more specific (92.3% vs 93.0 (ZN or 97.2 (auramine.Short duration sputum pretreatment with bleach and USP centrifugation did not increase yield as compared to direct sputum smears. Further work is needed to confirm this in a larger study and also determine if longer duration pre-treatment might be effective in optimizing smear microscopy for TB.

Laboratory detection methods for methicillin resistance in coagulase negative Staphylococcus isolated from ophthalmic infections Métodos laboratoriais para a detecção da resistência à meticilina nos Staphylococcus coagulase negativos de infecções oculares

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Adália Dias Dourado Oliveira

2007-08-01

moxifloxacin (P= 0.002; P= 0.008; P= 0.002 and P= 0.003, respectively. There was a statistically significant higher proportion of resistance of the coagulase negative Staphylococcus mecA-positives for: penicillin G, amoxicillin-ampicillin, cefazolin, ampicillin-sulbactam, erythromycin, clindamycin, gentamicin and tetracycline (POBJETIVOS: Avaliar os diferentes métodos de suscetibilidade à oxacillina, em isolados oculares, considerando a reação em cadeia da polimerase (PCR como "padrão-ouro" e comparar a suscetibilidade in vitro para outros antimicrobianos de uso oftalmológico. MÉTODOS: O sistema automatizado Vitek foi utilizado para identificar as diferentes espécies de Staphylococcus coagulase negativo (SCoN. A presença do gene mecA foi determinado pela reação em cadeia da polimerase com a combinação de 2 "primer" sets (mecA e 16S rRNA em uma única região. Estes resultados foram analisados e comparados com outros métodos de suscetibilidade à oxacilina: detecção da proteína PBP2a pelo teste de aglutinação em látex (SLA; E-test oxacilina; o sistema automatizado Vitek (GPS-105; o teste de triagem em ágar (OSAS com oxacilina nas concentrações de 6,0, 1,0 e 0,75 µg oxacilina por ml e o teste de disco difusão com cefoxitina (CDD. A suscetibilidade automatizada foi obtida para os seguintes agentes antimicrobianos: fluorquinolonas, penicilina G, amoxicilina-ampicilina, cefazolina, ampicilina-sulbactam, eritromicina, clindamicina, gentamicina, tetraciclina, sulfametoxazol-trimetoprima, vancomicina e rifampicina. RESULTADOS: Dos 69 Staphylococcus coagulase negativo testados, 71% foram mecA-positivos e 29%, mecA-negativos. Todos os métodos testados apresentaram concordância estatisticamente significante com a reação em cadeia da polimerase. Houve tendência à predominância da positividade da reação em cadeia da polimerase entre os S. epidermidis comparado aos não-epidermidis, embora sem significância estatistica (78,3% vs. 56,5%; chi2= 2,54; p=0

Tendencia del perfil de sensibilidad antimicrobiana de los aislamientos de sangre en un hospital oncológico (1998-2003 Trend of antimicrobial drug-susceptibility of blood isolates at an oncological center (1998-2003

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Patricia Cornejo-Juárez

2005-07-01

Full Text Available OBJETIVO: Describir la frecuencia de la resistencia en microrganismos aislados en cultivos de sangre en pacientes de un hospital oncológico de tercer nivel. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: De enero de 1998 a diciembre de 2003, en el Instituto Nacional de Cancerología se desarrolló un estudio retrospectivo en el cual se obtuvieron cepas de cultivos de sangre que fueron incluidas y procesadas por sistema Bactec y Microscan, para determinar identificación y sensibilidad antimicrobiana. Se determinó la tendencia anual de la resistencia de cada organismo especificado a los diferentes antibióticos. Se obtuvo la diferencia porcentual (incremento o decremento comparando la frecuencia de resistencia al inicio y al final del estudio. RESULTADOS: Se detectaron 2 071 cultivos positivos. Se recuperaron Gram negativos en 59.7% de las muestras, Gram positivos en 35.7% y levaduras en 4.6%. Escherichia coli fue el principal germen identificado (18.6%, seguido de S. epidermidis (12.7% y Klebsiella spp (9%. Durante el periodo de estudio la sensibilidad se mantuvo estable y por arriba de 88% (excepto para Pseudomonas aeruginosa. La sensibilidad de ciprofloxacina para E. coli se encontró alrededor de 50%. Amikacina presentó mayor sensibilidad que gentamicina. Staphylococcus aureus presentó una sensibilidad a oxacilina de 96% y a vancomicina de 100%. S.epidermidis de 14% a oxacilina y de 98.6% a vancomicina. No se encontraron cepas de enterococo resistente a vancomicina. Todas las cepas de S. pneumoniae fueron sensibles a penicilina. CONCLUSIONES: Se considera que los patrones de resistencia encontrados en este hospital son el resultado del control en el uso de antimicrobianos, del programa de vigilancia de infecciones nosocomiales y de la utilización de terapia combinada en todos los pacientes con bacteremia.OBJECTIVE: To describe the patterns of antimicrobial resistance organisms isolated in blood cultures from patients detected in a tertiary level of care, teaching

Extensively and Pre-Extensively Drug Resistant Tuberculosis in Clinical Isolates of Multi-Drug Resistant Tuberculosis Using Classical Second Line Drugs (Levofloxacin and Amikacin)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Mirza, I. A.; Khan, F. A.; Khan, K. A.; Satti, L.; Ghafoor, T.; Fayyaz, M.

2015-01-01

Objective:To find out the frequency of Extensively Drug Resistant (XDR) and pre-XDR tuberculosis in clinical isolates of Multi-Drug Resistant (MDR) Tuberculosis (TB) by determining the susceptibilities against Levofloxacin and Amikacin (classical second line antituberculosis drugs). Study Design: A descriptive cross-sectional study. Place and Duration of Study: Microbiology Department, Armed Forces Institute of Pathology (AFIP), Rawalpindi, from September 2011 to August 2013. Methodology: Amikacin (AK) and Levofloxacin (LEVO) were obtained in chemically pure form from Sigma (Taufkirchen, Germany). The breakpoint concentration used for AK was 1.0 micro g/ml and for LEVO 2.0 micro g/ml. Mycobacterial Growth Indicator Tube (MGIT) 960 system was used to carry out drug susceptibility testing as per recommended protocol. Results: A total of 3 MDR-TB isolates (3 percentage) turned out to be XDR-TB based upon simultaneous resistance to injectable second line antituberculosis drug AK and one of the fluoro-quinolones (LEVO). A total of 24 MDR-TB isolates (24 percentage) were found to be pre-XDR based upon resistance to LEVO alone. Treatment status record of patients with XDR and pre-XDRTB isolates revealed that majority of patients had received fluoroquinolones (FQs) during the course of treatment. Conclusion: XDR-TB has started to emerge in MDR-TB isolates in our set up. The worrying sign is the high frequency of pre-XDR tuberculosis. Urgent steps need to be taken to stem the tide of pre-XDR-TB in our population. It is thus recommended to develop facilities to carry out drug susceptibility testing to monitor the status of pre-XDR and XDR-TB in our population. (author)

EDITORIAL

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Leonardo Romero

2013-06-01

Full Text Available La globalización para la ciencia implica entre otras cosas la modernización de los medios y la concentración de la información científica en pocos archivos que sean de fácil acceso. Sin embargo, esto que aparentemente al final terminara con una «forma evolucionada de manera natural» es un proceso social complejo. Un proceso en el cual las sociedades más numerosas y con un mayor desarrollo económico están modelando la cultura de acuerdo a sus necesidades. De hecho los momentos actuales son de economías y de mercados. La expansión y popularización de la INTERNET sumado a las nuevas tecnologías están permitiendo un escenario propicio para el desarrollo de nuevos conceptos de medio de difusión de la información científica. Uno de los primeros ejemplos de esto fue Los Alamos National Laboratory e-print archive1 establecido en 1991, que permitió el acceso automatizado a trabajos científicos en un primer momento de física, astronomía y matemáticas y en la actualidad incluye también biología cuantitativa. Estos trabajos quedan a disposición de la comunidad científica, algunos han sido publicados en revistas convencionales y otros no, pero en general el arXiv.org, como se denomina en la actualidad, cumple el papel que podrían realizar revistas científicas.

Diseño óptimo de un sistema de distribución de agua (SDA aplicando el algoritmo Simulated Annealing (SA

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Maikel Méndez-Morales

2014-09-01

Full Text Available En este artículo se presenta la aplicación del algoritmo Simulated Annealing (SA en el diseño óptimo de un sistema de distribución de agua (SDA. El SA es un algoritmo metaheurístico de búsqueda, basado en una analogía entre el proceso de recocido en metales (proceso controlado de enfriamiento de un cuerpo y la solución de problemas de optimización combinatorios. El algoritmo SA, junto con diversos modelos matemáticos, ha sido utilizado exitosamente en el óptimo diseño de SDA. Como caso de estudio se utilizó el SDA a escala real de la comunidad de Marsella, en San Carlos, Costa Rica. El algoritmo SA fue implementado mediante el conocido modelo EPANET, a través de la extensión WaterNetGen. Se compararon tres diferentes variaciones automatizadas del algoritmo SA con el diseño manual del SDA Marsella llevado a cabo a prueba y error, utilizando únicamente costos unitarios de tuberías. Los resultados muestran que los tres esquemas automatizados del SA arrojaron costos unitarios por debajo del 0.49 como fracción, respecto al costo original del esquema de diseño ejecutado a prueba y error. Esto demuestra que el algoritmo SA es capaz de optimizar problemas combinatorios ligados al diseño de mínimo costo de los sistemas de distribución de agua a escala real.

Detección automática de NEOs en imágenes CCD utilizando la transformada de Hough

Science.gov (United States)

Ruétalo, M.; Tancredi, G.

El interés y la dedicación por los objetos que se acercan a la órbita de la Tierra (NEOs) ha aumentado considerablemente en los últimos años, tanto que se han iniciado varias campañas de búsqueda sistemática para aumentar la población identificada de éstos. El uso de placas fotográficas e identificación visual está siendo sustituído, progresivamente, por el uso de cámaras CCD y paquetes de detección automática de los objetos en las imágenes digitales. Una parte muy importante para la implementación exitosa de un programa automatizado de detección de este tipo es el desarrollo de algoritmos capaces de identificar objetos de baja relación señal-ruido y con requerimientos computacionales no elevados. En el presente trabajo proponemos la utilización de la transformada de Hough (utilizada en algunas áreas de visión artificial) para detectar automáticamente trazas, aproximadamente rectilíneas y de baja relación señal-ruido, en imágenes CCD. Desarrollamos una primera implementación de un algoritmo basado en ésta y lo probamos con una serie de imágenes reales conteniendo trazas con picos de señales de entre ~1 σ y ~3 σ por encima del nivel del ruido de fondo. El algoritmo detecta, sin inconvenientes, la mayoría de los casos y en tiempos razonablemente adecuados.

Un enfoque gerencial de factores críticos para el éxito de los sistemas de información en la Pyme metalmecánica venezolana

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José Luis Calderón Amaya

2012-01-01

Full Text Available Informes oficiales de países en desarrollo señalan, en general, significativas deficiencias en el tratamiento de la información en las pequeñas y medianas empresas (Pyme. Contar con sistemas de información automatizados (SI es ineludible, pero es más importante que sean exitosos, para lo cual la satisfacción del usuario final es el factor clave que llevará a obtener los beneficios esperados. Los niveles gerenciales y los profesionales de informática deben estar familiarizados con los principales factores relacionados para asegurar su adecuado tratamiento. Este estudio evaluó la satisfacción del usuario final y varios factores críticos de éxito relacionados en una muestra de empresas industriales medianas (Pymi. Para ello, se utilizó uno de los modelos de éxito más reconocidos por la comunidad investigadora del área. Realizados los análisis cuantitativo/cualitativo y comparados los resultados se concluye que el principal factor relacionado con la satisfacción del usuario final es la calidad de la información, lo cual puede ser suficiente para considerar como exitoso un SI; con esto los demás factores quedan en segundo lugar. El beneficio práctico de esta investigación es reflexionar sobre estos factores, contribuir a reforzar la efectividad y calidad de los procesos de desarrollo o adquisición de un SI y reducir su índice de fracasos.

Mapeamento do ambiente térmico de aviários de postura abertos em sistema vertical de criação

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Diogo J. de R. Coelho

2015-10-01

Full Text Available RESUMOObjetivou-se, com este trabalho monitorar, em tempo real, o ambiente térmico de um aviário de postura e realizar o mapeamento completo da distribuição das variáveis temperatura do ar, umidade relativa do ar e índice de temperatura e umidade no alojamento. O trabalho foi conduzido no mês de janeiro de 2013 em uma granja comercial de aves de postura, sistemas verticais, com seis andares de gaiolas. O aviário é totalmente automatizado possuindo 100.000 aves alojadas na densidade de 300 cm2 ave-1. A partir dos dados coletados foram determinadas as médias de temperatura e umidade relativa do ar para período diurno e noturno de diferentes posições na instalação. Os mapas térmicos resultantes demostram que ocorreu uma variabilidade térmica em diferentes posições espaciais no interior do aviário, com a região central apresentando temperaturas superiores às das extremidades porém dentro da faixa de conforto térmico das aves considerando a situação de temperaturas médias, durante calor extremo a temperatura interna na instalação alcançou 33 oC. A umidade relativa do ar apresentou pequenas variações durante o dia e maiores no período da noite. Em relação ao índice de temperatura e umidade a maior parte da instalação permaneceu dentro da faixa de conforto.

Prevalência e perfil de sensibilidade de amostras de Staphylococcus aureus isoladas de casos clínicos de infecções hospitalares

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Maria Inez Almeida

2007-08-01

Full Text Available Este estudo investigou a prevalência e o perfil de sensibilidade de amostras de Staphylococcus aureus isoladas de casos clínicos de infecções hospitalares, em um hospital de ensino, Londrina – Paraná, no período de 2004. Foi também comparado os resultados dos testes de susceptibilidade a oxacilina e vancomicina de 74 cepas, obtidos pelo sistema automatizado MicroScan® (Dade Bering, Sacramento, Califórnia, USA, utilizando Painéis MicroScan® PC 12 (Gram Positivo, com os resultados da técnica de diluição em ágar com diferentes concentrações destes antimicrobianos. As informações foram procedentes do banco de dados das infecções hospitalares da Comissão de Controle de Infecção Hospitalar (CCIH. As amostras de S. aureus apresentaram amplo espectro de resistência frente as drogas testadas. A taxa média de prevalência de infecções hospitalares por S. aureus foi de 16,3% e a taxa média de prevalência de amostras oxacilina resistentes foi de 70,75%. Não se detectou amostras resistentes a vancomicina pelos 2 métodos. O método de diluição em ágar confirmou a resistência a oxacilina em 65 das 74 (83,75% e as amostras avaliadas pelo sistema MicroScan® não apresentaram diferenças estatisticamente significantes. Para o antimicrobiano vancomicina, houve concordância em 100% entre os dois métodos.

Sistema de Posicionamiento para Vehículos Autónomos

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V. Milanés

2008-10-01

Full Text Available Resumen: Uno de los objetivos más importantes de los Sistemas Inteligentes de Transporte (ITS es evitar la pérdida de precisión en el posicionamiento y guiado del vehículo, debido a la disminución en la calidad de la señal del Sistema de Posicionamiento Global (GPS. En este artículo, se presenta un sistema de posicionamiento formado por la combinación de un GPS con una unidad de medida inercial ayudada por los sensores embarcados en el coche para realizar el guiado. En función de la precisión proporcionada por el GPS, el sistema discrimina entre tres posibles comportamientos: 1 Si la precisión es centimétrica, el GPS se encarga en solitario del guiado. 2 Si no se recibe la señal GPS, el control lo toma la unidad inercial. 3 Si la precisión de la señal del GPS no es centimétrica, la posición del vehículo se calcula mediante una combinación de ambas medidas. El sistema se ha instalado en un Citroën C3 Pluriel. Los resultados muestran un correcto comportamiento del vehículo en diferentes situaciones y prueban la necesidad de integrar la información sensorial para realizar un control de navegación óptimo. Palabras Clave: guiado automatizado de vehículos, sistemas de posicionamiento global, unidad de medida inercial

Aditivos para concretos de projeção

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Pileggi R. G.

2002-01-01

Full Text Available A crescente utilização de procedimentos automatizados para a instalação de concretos refratários, como bombeamento e projeção, deve-se ao entendimento simultâneo das solicitações de cada técnica de instalação e dos fatores que determinam a natureza reológica destes materiais. No caso dos concretos de projeção, importante ainda é avaliar a ação dos aditivos (floculantes, aceleradores de pega, etc. normalmente utilizados para auxiliar a consolidação e adesão do material na superfície aplicada, reduzindo o desperdício (rebote durante a aplicação. Contudo, os procedimentos convencionais de análise, baseados em ensaios de consistência ou em análises pós-cura, não permitem simular a influência dos aditivos na projeção do material. Neste trabalho, foi desenvolvida uma nova técnica experimental baseada na reometria de concretos, a qual foi utilizada na análise de aditivos comerciais, além de outros que teoricamente possuem potencial para auxiliar a consolidação da aplicação de concretos por projeção. Os resultados comprovaram a eficácia da técnica de ensaio desenvolvida e possibilitaram a identificação de novos aditivos que elevam a eficiência da projeção.

DINÂMICA DA COBERTURA DA TERRA DO DISTRITO FEDERAL DENTRO DE SUAS UNIDADES GEOMORFOLÓGICAS

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Glauber Neves

2018-04-01

Full Text Available O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a dinâmica da cobertura da terra do território do Distrito Federal dentro do domínio de suas unidades de relevo. O trabalho foi dividido em três etapas: i mapeamento multitemporal da cobertura da terra, foi utilizado um método de classificação semi-automatizado com dados dos sensores TM e OLI a bordo dos satélites Landsat 5 e 8, respectivamente, entre os anos de 1985 e 2015; ii mapeamento das unidades de relevo, foi utilizado um método de classificação por digitalização em tela a partir de um MDE da SRTM; iii relação relevo-cobertura, quantificação dos dados de cobertura em função das unidades de relevo a fim de identificar seus padrões de distribuição. Identificou-se a presença de dois grandes ambientes com padrões de distribuição da cobertura distintos. O primeiro, composto por Chapadas e Rampas de Colúvio, apresentou padrões de cobertura vinculadas a múltiplos usos, principalmente pelo desenvolvimento urbano e agropecuário. O segundo, composto por Ambiente Colinoso e Vale, apresentou maior preservação da cobertura vegetal natural. A identificação desses ambientes é importante para a definição de limites ambientais que auxiliem na gestão dos recursos naturais e no ordenamento territorial.

Alocação dinâmica de recursos computacionais para experimentos científicos com replanejamento automatizado a bordo de satélites

OpenAIRE

Fabrício de Novaes Kucinskis

2007-01-01

Os experimentos a bordo dos satélites científicos do INPE são atualmente pensados para executar suas tarefas de forma repetitiva, coletando, armazenando e enviando dados em um ciclo que não sofre grandes alterações. Esta forma de lidar com a operação de experimentos é perfeitamente adequada para a observação científica de longo prazo. Existem, entretanto, fenômenos científicos de curta duração cuja ocorrência, embora previsível, é aleatória. Para analisar melhor estes fenômenos, pode ser impo...

The Prevalence of Brucella Biotypes Isolated From Sterile Body Fluids of Patients With Brucellosis in Kashan, Iran in 2013

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Erami

2016-07-01

Full Text Available Background Brucella species are classified based on their pathogenic and genetic properties and hosts. Considering the significance of identifying different biotypes of Brucella from the epidemiological point of view and lack of such information in the city of Kashan, Iran. Objectives This study was designed to determine the biotypes and strains of Brucella isolated from patients with brucellosis. Methods This was a descriptive study of 206 samples obtained from patients with suspected brucellosis in 2013 in Kashan. BACTEC 9050 culture media was employed to test the samples. Suspected colonies of Brucella were identified through morphology, staining, and biochemical tests. The biotypes were identified by the Razi Research Institute. Lysis tests with the Tbilisi (Tb phage were performed, the need for CO2, SH2 production, sensitivity to basic fuchsin and thionin stains, and the reaction of all the samples to specific antiserum A and M (monospecific were tested. Results Fifty (24.3% of the 206 samples were culture positive. SH3 production was not detected in any of the isolates, and none of the isolated strains required CO2. The results of the sensitivity test to basic fuchsin and thionin staining and specific agglutination and phage lysis (phage typing tests indicated that all the isolated strains were biotype 1 B. melitansis. Conclusions The cause of human brucellosis in Kashan and its suburbs was biotype 1 B. melitensis. The identification of various biotypes of Brucella is important. Similar studies should be performed to detect the presence of new biotypes originating from neighboring countries.

Effect of milk fermentation by kefir grains and selected single strains of lactic acid bacteria on the survival of Mycobacterium bovis BCG.

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Macuamule, C L S; Wiid, I J; van Helden, P D; Tanner, M; Witthuhn, R C

2016-01-18

Mycobacterium bovis that causes Bovine tuberculosis (BTB) can be transmitted to humans thought consumption of raw and raw fermented milk products from diseased animals. Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) used in popular traditional milk products in Africa produce anti-microbial compounds that inhibit some pathogenic and spoilage bacteria. M. bovis BCG is an attenuated non-pathogenic vaccine strain of M. bovis and the aim of the study was to determine the effect of the fermentation process on the survival of M. bovis BCG in milk. M. bovis BCG at concentrations of 6 log CFU/ml was added to products of kefir fermentation. The survival of M. bovis BCG was monitored at 12-h intervals for 72 h by enumerating viable cells on Middlebrook 7H10 agar plates enriched with 2% BD BACTEC PANTA™. M. bovis BCG was increasingly reduced in sterile kefir that was fermented for a period of 24h and longer. In the milk fermented with kefir grains, Lactobacillus paracasei subsp. paracasei or Lactobacillus casei, the viability of M. bovis BCG was reduced by 0.4 logs after 24h and by 2 logs after 48 h of fermentation. No viable M. bovis BCG was detected after 60 h of fermentation. Results from this study show that long term fermentation under certain conditions may have the potential to inactivate M. bovis BCG present in the milk. However, to ensure safety of fermented milk in Africa, fermentation should be combined with other hurdle technologies such as boiling and milk pasteurisation. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Enhanced radiometric detection of Mycobacterium paratuberculosis by using filter-concentrated bovine fecal specimens

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Collins, M.T.; Kenefick, K.B.; Sockett, D.C.; Lambrecht, R.S.; McDonald, J.; Jorgensen, J.B.

1990-01-01

A commercial radiometric medium, BACTEC 12B, was modified by addition of mycobactin, egg yolk suspension, and antibiotics (vancomycin, amphotericin B, and nalidixic acid). Decontaminated bovine fecal specimens were filter concentrated by using 3-microns-pore-size, 13-mm-diameter polycarbonate filters, and the entire filter was placed into the radiometric broth. Comparison of the radiometric technique with conventional methods on 603 cattle from 9 Mycobacterium paratuberculosis-infected herds found that of 75 positive specimens, the radiometric technique detected 92% while conventional methods detected 60% (P less than 0.0005). Only 3.9% of radiometric cultures were contaminated. To measure the effect of filter concentration of specimens on the detection rate, 5 cattle with minimal and 5 with moderate ileum histopathology were sampled weekly for 3 weeks. M. paratuberculosis was detected in 33.3% of nonfiltered specimens and 76.7% of filtered specimens (P less than 0.005). Detection rates were directly correlated with the severity of disease, and the advantage of specimen concentration was greatest on fecal specimens from cattle with low-grade infections. Detection times were also correlated with infection severity: 13.4 +/- 5.9 days with smear-positive specimens, 27.9 +/- 8.7 days with feces from cows with typical subclinical infections, and 38.7 +/- 3.8 days with fecal specimens from cows with low-grade infections. Use of a cocktail of vancomycin, amphotericin B, and nalidixic acid for selective suppression of nonmycobacterial contaminants was better than the commercial product PANTA (Becton Dickinson Microbiologic Systems, Towson, Md.) only when specimens contained very low numbers of M. paratuberculosis

Comparison of radiometric and conventional culture systems in detecting Haemophilus influenzae type b bacteremia in rats

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Mitchell, M.J.; Zwahlen, A.; Elliott, H.L.; Ford, N.K.; Charache, F.P.; Moxon, E.R.

1985-01-01

To compare the efficiency of detecting Haemophilus influenzae type b bacteremia by the BACTEC radiometric system and a conventional Trypticase soy broth blood culture system, the authors developed an in vivo model of bacteremia in rats. After intravenous injection of 50 to 200 CFU into adult rats, there was a linear logarithmic increase in CFU per milliliter of rat blood during the first 10 h (r = 0.98), allowing accurate prediction of the level of bacteremia with time. Culture bottles were inoculated with 0.5 ml of blood obtained by cardiac puncture and processed as clinical samples in the microbiology laboratory with RS and conventional protocols. They found the following. (i) The first detection of bacteremia by RS was similar to that by TSB if a Gram stain of the TSB was done on day 1 and was superior if that smear was omitted (P less than 0.01). (ii) The detection times in both systems were comparable at different magnitudes of bacteremia (10(1) to 10(4) CFU/ml). (iii) Supplementation of inoculated bottles with 2 ml of sterile rat blood interfered with Gram stain detection in TSB but resulted in increased 14 CO 2 production in RS. (iv) No difference in detection time was found between RS and TSB for four different clinical isolates. These studies show that, in a biologically relevant model, the detection of positive blood cultures for H. influenzae type b by RS was comparable to or better than detection by TSB when blood was processed analogously to clinical specimens

Bacterial rapid identification with matrix assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry: development of an 'in-house method' and comparison with Bruker Sepsityper(®) kit.

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Frédéric Ric, S; Antoine, M; Bodson, A; Lissoir, B

2015-10-01

The objective of this study was to compare an in-house matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization with time of flight (MALDI-TOF) method and a commercial MALDI-TOF kit (Sepsityper(®) kit) for direct bacterial identification in positive blood cultures. We also evaluated the time saved and the cost associated with the rapid identification techniques. We used the BACTEC(®) automated system for detecting positive blood cultures. Direct identification using Sepsityper kit and the in-house method were compared with conventional identification by MALDI-TOF using pure bacterial culture on the solid phase. We also evaluated different cut-off scores for rapid bacterial identification. In total, 127 positive blood vials were selected. The rate of rapid identification with the MALDI Sepsityper kit was 25.2% with the standard cut-off and 33.9% with the enlarged cut-off, while the results for the in-house method were 44.1 and 61.4%, respectively. Error rates with the enlarged cut-off were 6.98 (n = 3) and 2.56% (n = 2) for Sepsityper and the in-house method, respectively. Identification rates were higher for gram-negative bacteria. Direct bacterial identification succeeded in supplying rapid identification of the causative organism in cases of sepsis. The time taken to obtain a result was nearly 24  hours shorter for the direct bacterial identification methods than for conventional MALDI-TOF on solid phase culture. Compared with the Sepsityper kit, the in-house method offered better results and fewer errors, was more cost-effective and easier to use.

Reconocimiento automatizado de menas metálicas mediante análisis digital de imagen: un apoyo al proceso mineralúrgico. I: ensayo metodológico

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Berrezueta, E.

2007-08-01

Full Text Available Ore microscopy has traditionally been an important support to control ore processing, but the volume of present day processes is beyond the reach of human operators. Automation is therefore compulsory, but its development through digital image analysis, DIA, is limited by various problems, such as the similarity in reflectance values of some important ores, their anisotropism, and the performance of instruments and methods. The results presented show that automated identification and quantification by DIA are possible through multiband (RGB determinations with a research 3CCD video camera on a reflected light microscope. These results were obtained by systematic measurement of selected ores accounting for most of the industrial applications. Polarized light is avoided, so the effects of anisotropism can be neglected. Quality control at various stages and statistical analysis are important, as is the application of complementary criteria (e.g., metallogenetic. The sequential methodology is described and shown through practical examples.

La investigación microscópica de menas metálicas ha sido, desde sus inicios, una importante herramienta para el control del proceso mineralúrgico. El volumen de las operaciones actuales es tal que este control es imposible por los métodos clásicos, pero la automatización del proceso por análisis digital de imagen, ADI, se ha visto retrasada, entre otras cosas, por la similar reflectancia, R, de menas importantes, por limitaciones instrumentales y metodológicas y por las dificultades que implica el anisotropismo, las cuales desaparecen evitando la polarización. Los resultados obtenidos muestran la viabilidad de la identificación y cuantificación automatizadas mediante ADI, a partir de medidas R con cámara vídeo 3CCD sobre microscopio de reflexión. Así lo corrobora el ensayo sistemático sobre las principales menas. Se describe la metodología secuenciada. Implica una puesta a punto rigurosa del equipo para controlar problemas instrumentales, derivas, ruido…, el análisis estadístico y la aplicación de criterios complementarios, metalogenéticos y fìsicos.

Los servicios de las bibliotecas de acceso público argentinas en entorno automatizado: aspectos teórico-metodológicos del Proyecto UBACYT F40

OpenAIRE

Barber, Elsa; Tripaldi, Nicolás M.; Pisano, Silvia; Werner, Valeria; D'Alessandro, Sofía; Romagnoli, Sandra; Parsiale, Verónica; De Pedro, Gabriela L.; Gregui, Carolina

2002-01-01

UBACYT F040 project is being presented in its theoretical and methodological aspects. It is aimed to exalt the incidence of library automation in the provision of services oriented to the use of information technology in public libraries of Argentina. The methodology is based on the application (restricted in a first stage to the Capital Federal and Gran Buenos Aires area) of a questionnaire designed according to selected variables depending on the nature of the studied libraries. From the s...

Examination of bedaquiline- and linezolid-resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis isolates from the Moscow region.

Science.gov (United States)

Zimenkov, Danila V; Nosova, Elena Yu; Kulagina, Elena V; Antonova, Olga V; Arslanbaeva, Liaisan R; Isakova, Alexandra I; Krylova, Ludmila Yu; Peretokina, Irina V; Makarova, Marina V; Safonova, Svetlana G; Borisov, Sergey E; Gryadunov, Dmitry A

2017-07-01

To study the isolates with acquired resistance to bedaquiline and linezolid that were obtained from patients enrolled in a clinical study of a novel therapy regimen for drug-resistant TB in Moscow, Russia. Linezolid resistance was detected using MGIT 960 with a critical concentration of 1 mg/L. The MIC of bedaquiline was determined using the proportion method. To identify genetic determinants of resistance, sequencing of the mmpR ( Rv0678 ), atpE , atpC , pepQ , Rv1979c , rrl , rplC and rplD loci was performed. A total of 85 isolates from 27 patients with acquired resistance to linezolid and reduced susceptibility to bedaquiline (MIC ≥0.06 mg/L) were tested. Most mutations associated with a high MIC of bedaquiline were found in the mmpR gene. We identified for the first time two patients whose clinical isolates had substitutions D28N and A63V in AtpE, which had previously been found only in in vitro -selected strains. Several patients had isolates with elevated MICs of bedaquiline prior to treatment; four of them also bore mutations in mmpR , indicating the presence of some hidden factors in bedaquiline resistance acquisition. The C154R substitution in ribosomal protein L3 was the most frequent in the linezolid-resistant strains. Mutations in the 23S rRNA gene (g2294a and g2814t) associated with linezolid resistance were also found in two isolates. Heteroresistance was identified in ∼40% of samples, which reflects the complex nature of resistance acquisition. The introduction of novel drugs into treatment must be accompanied by continuous phenotypic susceptibility testing and the analysis of genetic determinants of resistance. © The Author 2017. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the British Society for Antimicrobial Chemotherapy. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Role of PCR method using IS6110 primer in detecting Mycobacterium tuberculosis among the clinically diagnosed childhood tuberculosis patients at an urban hospital in Dhaka, Bangladesh

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Senjuti Kabir

2018-03-01

Full Text Available Objective: Better methods are needed for the accurate detection of child tuberculosis (TB. This study compared different laboratory tests and evaluated IS6110 PCR for the detection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB among clinically diagnosed child TB patients. Methods: A total of 102 paediatric patients (<15 years old with clinically diagnosed TB were enrolled in this study. The patients were admitted to the icddr,b hospital in Dhaka between 2003 and 2005. Sputum/gastric lavage samples were collected for smear microscopy, culture (solid/Lowenstein–Jensen medium and liquid/MGIT, and IS6110 PCR testing. The sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values (PPV, NPV of smear microscopy and PCR were compared to the two culture methods. Results: Three patients were positive on smear microscopy (2.9%. MTB was detected by conventional culture in 15.7% (16/102, liquid culture in 14% (14/100, and IS6110 PCR in 61.8% (63/102. PCR detected an additional 45 patients who were undetected with the three other tests. Compared to conventional and liquid culture, respectively, smear microscopy showed sensitivity of 18.8% and 21.4%, specificity of 100% individually, PPV of 100% individually, and NPV of 86.9% and 88.7%, whereas PCR had sensitivity of 87.5% and 92.9%, specificity of 43% individually, PPV of 22.2% and 21%, and NPV of 94.9% and 97.4%. Conclusions: PCR can be useful compared to smear microscopy and culture methods and is applicable as a rapid screening test for child TB. A larger scale study is required to determine its diagnostic efficacy in improving the detection of child TB in the presence and absence of severe malnutrition. Keywords: Child tuberculosis, Mycobacterium tuberculosis, IS6110 PCR

Pyrosequencing as a tool for the identification of common isolates of Mycobacterium sp.

Science.gov (United States)

Tuohy, Marion J; Hall, Gerri S; Sholtis, Mary; Procop, Gary W

2005-04-01

Pyrosequencing technology, sequencing by addition, was evaluated for categorization of mycobacterial isolates. One hundred and eighty-nine isolates, including 18 ATCC and Trudeau Mycobacterial Culture Collection (TMC) strains, were studied. There were 38 Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex, 27 M. kansasii, 27 MAI complex, 21 M. marinum, 14 M. gordonae, 20 M. chelonae-abscessus group, 10 M. fortuitum, 5 M. xenopi, 3 M. celatum, 2 M. terrae complex, 20 M. mucogenicum, and 2 M. scrofulaceum. Nucleic acid extracts were prepared from solid media or MGIT broth. Traditional PCR was performed with one of the primers biotinylated; the assay targeted a portion of the 16S rRNA gene that contains a hypervariable region, which has been previously shown to be useful for the identification of mycobacteria. The PSQ Sample Preparation Kit was used, and the biotinylated PCR product was processed to a single-stranded DNA template. The sequencing primer was hybridized to the DNA template in a PSQ96 plate. Incorporation of the complementary nucleotides resulted in light generation peaks, forming a pyrogram, which was evaluated by the instrument software. Thirty basepairs were used for isolate categorization. Manual interpretation of the sequences was performed if the quality of the 30-bp sequence was in doubt or if more than 4 bp homopolymers were recognized. Sequences with more than 5 bp of bad quality were deemed unacceptable. When blasted against GenBank, 179 of 189 sequences (94.7%) assigned isolates to the correct molecular genus or group. Ten M. gordonae isolates had more than 5 bp of bad quality sequence and were not accepted. Pyrosequencing of this hypervariable region afforded rapid and acceptable characterization of common, routinely isolated clinical Mycobacterium sp. Algorithms are recommended for further differentiation with an additional sequencing primer or additional biochemicals.

Drug-resistant tuberculosis among HIV-infected patients starting antiretroviral therapy in Durban, South Africa.

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Jeffrey K Hom

Full Text Available To estimate the prevalence of drug-resistant tuberculosis (TB and describe the resistance patterns in patients commencing antiretroviral therapy (ART in an HIV clinic in Durban, South Africa.Cross-sectional cohort study.Consecutive HIV-infected adults (≥ 18y/o initiating HIV care were enrolled from May 2007-May 2008, regardless of signs or symptoms of active TB. Prior TB history and current TB treatment status were self-reported. Subjects expectorated sputum for culture (MGIT liquid and 7H11 solid medium. Positive cultures were tested for susceptibility to first- and second-line anti-tuberculous drugs. The prevalence of drug-resistant TB, stratified by prior TB history and current TB treatment status, was assessed.1,035 subjects had complete culture results. Median CD4 count was 92/µl (IQR 42-150/µl. 267 subjects (26% reported a prior history of TB and 210 (20% were receiving TB treatment at enrollment; 191 (18% subjects had positive sputum cultures, among whom the estimated prevalence of resistance to any antituberculous drug was 7.4% (95% CI 4.0-12.4. Among those with prior TB, the prevalence of resistance was 15.4% (95% CI 5.9-30.5 compared to 5.2% (95% CI 2.1-8.9 among those with no prior TB. 5.1% (95% CI 2.4-9.5 had rifampin or rifampin plus INH resistance.The prevalence of TB resistance to at least one drug was 7.4% among adults with positive TB cultures initiating ART in Durban, South Africa, with 5.1% having rifampin or rifampin plus INH resistance. Improved tools for diagnosing TB and drug resistance are urgently needed in areas of high HIV/TB prevalence.

Aproximación experimental al uso de métricas objetivas para la estimación de calidad cromática en la digitalización de patrimonio documental gráfico

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Robledano-Arillo, Jesús

2016-06-01

Full Text Available This work aims to provide a critical examination of different approaches to creating models of automated quality control systems for digital images in digitization projects for photographic heritage collections. After conducting a psychometric experiment with four human experts, we demonstrate that it is not possible to talk about commonly used, simplistic models based on continuous acceptance ranges for colour metrics on an isolated basis. This study demonstrates that a model based on a rule-based, machine-learning system employing metrics (CIE 1976 or CIEDE 2000 along with the colour perceptual attributes of hue, saturation and lightness, emulates the image quality experts with a high degree of efficacy, above 85%.Se abordan de una forma crítica diferentes aproximaciones aplicables para la realización de modelos de sistemas de control de calidad automatizado de imágenes digitales en proyectos de digitalización de fondos fotográficos con valor histórico-cultural. Tras la realización de un experimento psicométrico con cuatro expertos humanos se concluye que no es posible utilizar con un buen rendimiento los modelos simplistas de uso común basados en rangos de aceptación continuos sobre mediciones de color tomadas de forma aislada. Nuestra investigación demuestra que un modelo basado en un sistema de reglas obtenidas por aprendizaje automático que emplee las métricas CIE 1976 o CIEDE 2000, junto con los atributos perceptuales de color matiz, saturación y luminosidad, emula a los expertos humanos en calidad de imagen con un alto grado de eficacia, por encima del 85%.

SISTEMA DE AQUISIÇÃO DE DADOS PARA A MÁQUINA DE IMPACTO CHARPY

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Jermana Lopes Moraes

2014-08-01

Full Text Available Este trabalho tem o objetivo de implementar e desenvolver um sistema de aquisição de dados para a máquina de impacto Charpy. Assim, é realizado um estudo da máquina de impacto Charpy, do ensaio de impacto e das ferramentas necessárias para desenvolvimento do projeto. Utiliza-se um acelerômetro para determinar a aceleração nos eixos x e y do pêndulo Charpy durante a realização do ensaio. Para leitura e interpretação dos dados enviados pelo acelerômetro utiliza-se a plataforma de hardware Arduino UNO com software específico. Os dados enviados ao Arduino são apresentados em uma interface gráfica desenvolvida no Matlab. Nesta interface é possível inserir os dados iniciais de ensaio Charpy e apresentar ao usuário final os resultados finais de ensaio, como a energia de impacto, a resistência de impacto e a força necessária para romper o corpo de prova. Além disso, é apresentado ao usuário um gráfico da aceleração ao longo da realização do ensaio e o gráfico de força ao longo do tempo. Desta forma, registram-se os dados em um arquivo específico para análise e estudo posterior. A porcentagem de erro entre o valor medidor no mostrador da máquina e o resultado automatizado não ultrapassa o limite de 8 %.

Diseño de reportes técnicos para perfeccionar el Sistema de Vigilancia en Salud nicaragüense Technical report designing to improve the Nicaraguan Health Surveillance System

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Osmany Ricardo Puig

2011-04-01

Full Text Available Se realizó un estudio observacional descriptivo de las insuficiencias del Ministerio de Salud Pública nicaragüense en la notificación y el reporte de eventos adversos a la salud. Entre los factores identificados estaban la falta de personal calificado para asumir tareas a nivel de puestos y centros de salud, la carencia de medios de comunicación para transmitir la información recolectada en comunidades y unidades de salud, y la falta de disciplina informativa, de retroalimentación y uniformidad de los formatos para la recolección del dato primario, lo que dificultaba el procesamiento automatizado de la información y la calidad de los partes diarios y semanales. Se diseñaron e implementaron nuevos formatos que fueron validados y que mejoraron la calidad del sistema de vigilancia y la detección oportuna de los problemas que afectaban la salud de la población.An observational descriptive study was carried out to detect insufficiencies of the Nicaraguan Ministry of Health in notifying and reporting health-endangering events. Among the identified factors, there were lack of qualified personnel to assume responsibilities, lack of communication systems to transmit the information collected in communities and health units, and the inadequate informative discipline, feedback, and format inconsistency to collect of primary data, which attempted the information automatic processing, as well as the quality of daily and weekly reports. New formats were designed and implemented, which were later assessed as they improved the quality of the system of surveillance and detection of health-endangering problems.

Doença de Alzheimer e espectroscopia por ressonância magnética do hipocampo

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Engelhardt Eliasz

2001-01-01

Full Text Available OBJETIVOS: Obtenção de dados do espectro de metabolitos por ressonância magnética da formação hipocampal no idoso normal e com doença de Alzheimer (DA. MÉTODO: Os indivíduos foram pareados por idade, sendo 20 na amostra normal, CDR=0 e 40 com DA 3 CDR=1 e 2. Utilizou-se aparelho Signa Horizon LX-GE, 1.5T, ¹H-ERM com aplicativo automatizado PROBE/SV, VOI: hc (direito e esquerdo; voxel único (2x2x2cm; TR 1500ms/TE 50ms; PRESS; metabolitos: N-acetilaspartato (Naa, colina (Cho, creatina (Cr, mio-inositol (mI. RESULTADOS: Os presentes dados se referem aos quocientes de Naa, Cho e mI, com Cr tomada como referência e relação mI/Naa. O estudo mostrou o Naa reduzido, o mI e a relação mI/Naa aumentados e os resultados em relação à Cho foram variados. Os resultados da amostra global dos pacientes com DA em comparação à média ± dp da amostra normal foram significativos para Naa, mI e mI/Naa (p<0,01. A precisão, tomando os valores de modo individual das duas amostras, mostrou sensibilidade, especificidade e valor preditivo positivo satisfatórios. CONCLUSÃO: Os presentes resultados podem ser usados como ferramenta útil para detectar alterações patológicas no hipocampo de pacientes com DA, permitindo diagnóstico de maior precisão e mais precoce da doença.

Medidas automatizadas de psicrômetro de termopar aspirado versus não aspirado

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Antonio Ribeiro da Cunha

2014-06-01

Full Text Available O termopar ou par termoelétrico é utilizado na obtenção da temperatura do ar com ótima precisão, sensibilidade e com grande vantagem sobre o termômetro de mercúrio ou álcool, pois geram sinais elétricos que podem ser armazenados em sistemas automatizados. No entanto, quando se trata da obtenção da umidade relativa a partir de termopar, o processo se torna mais cauteloso devido a outros fatores envolvidos. Neste estudo, avaliaram-se dois conjuntos psicrômetros de termopar, aspirado e não aspirado, em relação a um conjunto Vaisala, no período de 17 a 31/01/2008 (15 dias. A partir de medidas de temperaturas de bulbos seco e úmido foram obtidas medidas da umidade relativa, e com isso, foi possível compará-las com as medidas obtidas pelo conjunto Vaisala. Os dois tipos de psicrômetros apresentaram precisão e exatidão nas medidas de temperatura do ar, e apenas precisão nas medidas de umidade relativa do ar, sendo que o psicrômetro aspirado foi o mais preciso. Apesar do psicrômetro não aspirado ter apresentado menor precisão nas medidas, ele é mais robusto porque independe do micro-ventilador de 12 VDC, o que faz dele um sensor com menos riscos de medidas inadequadas. Ambos os psicrômetros, aspirado e não aspirado, não medem com exatidão a umidade relativa do ar no período noturno.

SISTEMA ACADÉMICO-FINANCIERO DE LA UNIVERSIDAD POPULAR DE NICARAGUA

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Luis Alberto Andión Rodríguez

2002-05-01

Full Text Available

Se expone un sistema automatizado que controla la gestión académico-financiera en la Universidad Popular de Nicaragua (UPONIC. Dicho sistema permite agilizar los procesos de mayor importancia y prioridad que giran en torno a los estudiantes, así como emitir los informes necesarios para la toma de decisiones que se lleva a cabo en dicha universidad. La UPONIC es una institución de educación superior con régimen y administración privados y con misión, visión y valores de función social. Se rige por un modelo educacional diferente al de las universidades cubanas y dentro de sus procesos más importantes se encuentran la matrícula, el pago de deudas pendientes, el pago de servicios académicos, la devolución de préstamos y la asignación de becas.

Abstract

The present work exposes an automated system that controls the Academic and Financial Activities in the Popular University of Nicaragua (UPONIC. This system allows to speed up the most important processes involving the students, as well as to emit the necessary reports for making decisions by the administrative personnel. UPONIC is an institution of superior education with private regime and private administration and with mission, vision and values of social function. It is governed by an educational model different to the Cuban universities, and the most important processes carried out in this are the registration, the payment of pending debts, the payment of academic services, the refund of loans and the assignment of scholarships.

Staphylococcus warneri meningitis in a patient with Strongyloides stercoralis hyperinfection and lymphoma: first report of a case Staphylococcus warneri meningite em paciente com hiperinfecção com Strongyloides stercoralis e linfoma: primeiro relato de caso

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Renzo Nino Incani

2010-06-01

Full Text Available A case of meningitis due to Staphylococcus warneri in a patient with a hyperinfection with Strongyloides stercoralis possibly associated with rituximab treatment for mantel cell lymphoma is reported for the first time in the literature. The patient was a 59-year-old woman, with a 3-year history of an apparently well controlled lymphoma after treatment with chemotherapy-immunotherapy and then immunotherapy alone, and diagnosis of strongyloidiasis. Meningitis was diagnosed by cerebrospinal fluid culture and tested with an automated plate system. The patient was successfully treated with vancomycin; although fever and productive cough persisted. Severe gastrointestinal symptoms and pneumonia developed three weeks later. Hyperinfection syndrome by S. stercoralis was diagnosed, with abundant larvae in feces and expectoration.Caso de meningite por Staphylococcus warneri em paciente com hiperinfecção com Strongyloides stercoralis, possivelmente associada com tratamento de rituximab para linfoma de células do manto é relatada pela primeira vez na literatura. A paciente, mulher de 59 anos com história de três anos de linfoma aparentemente bem controlado com tratamento com quimioterapia-imunoterapia e, em seguida, somente imunoterapia e diagnóstico de estrongiloidíase. Meningite foi diagnosticada por cultura do líquido cefalorraquidiano e testada com sistema automatizado de placa. A paciente foi tratada com sucesso com vancomicina, embora a febre e a tosse produtiva não tenham desaparecido. Após graves sintomas gastrointestinais a paciente desenvolveu pneumonia três semanas mais tarde. Síndrome de hiperinfecção por S. stercoralis foi diagnosticada, com larvas abundantes nas fezes e expectoração.

Autotransfusão intra-operatória em cirurgia cardíaca: estudo comparativo de 140 casos Intraoperative autotransfusion in heart surgery: comparative study of 140 cases

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Sérgio Domingos Vieira

1992-12-01

Full Text Available Utilizando-se programa dirigido para diminuição ou eliminação do uso de sangue homólogo, em pacientes cirúrgicos graves, foi realizado um estudo comparativo entre 14 0 casos. Os pacientes foram divididos em 2 grupos de 70 casos cada, onde o Grupo A representava aqueles submetidos a cirurgia cardíaca com o uso de recuperadores celulares automatizados de sangue cell-saver, no Grupo B, os pacientes que não utilizaram cell-saver durante o ato cirúrgico (Grupo controle. A maioria era de reoperações: 71,1 % no Grupo A e 74,2 % no Grupo B, observando-se, ainda, semelhança entre os respectivos grupos em relação a: idade, distribuição por sexo, tipo de operação, condições clínicas e aspectos laboratoriais pré-operatórios (coagulograma; eritrograma; série bioquímica. No Grupo A a utilização média de sangue homólogo, durante o ato cirúrgico, foi de 628 ml, e 479 ml no pós-operatório imediato. Já no Grupo B o uso de sangue homólogo foi de 1.271 ml e 1.095 ml, respectivamente. A perda sangüínea média na sala cirúrgica do Grupo A foi de 380 ml, enquanto que a do Grupo B foi de 89 9 ml. O número de pacientes do Grupo A que não necessitou de sangue homólogo durante o período de internação foi o dobro (5,7% em relação ao Grupo B (2,8%. A maioria dos pacientes do Grupo A (51,4% utilizou no máximo 2 unidades de sangue homólogo, enquanto que a maioria dos paciientes do Grupo B (78,6% utilizou entre 3 ou mais de 5 unidades de sangue homólogo. O estudo mostra, portanto, que a utilização da autotransfusão intra-operatória (ATI através de processadores celulares automatizados (cell-saver em cirurgia cardíaca é um procedimento seguro e eficaz, reduzindo em aproximadamente 50 % a utilização de sangue homólogo, com as possíveis reações transfusionais e, principalmente, o risco da transmissão de doenças infecto-contagiosas.An intraoperative autotransfusion was planned in order to decrease or to avoid

Pathogens causing blood stream infections and their drug susceptibility profile in immunocompromised patients.

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Fayyaz, Muhammad; Mirza, Irfan Ali; Ikram, Aamer; Hussain, Aamir; Ghafoor, Tahir; Shujat, Umer

2013-12-01

To determine the types of pathogens causing blood stream infections and their drug susceptibility profile in immunocompromised patients. Cross-sectional, observational study. Department of Microbiology, Armed Forces Institute of Pathology, Rawalpindi, from January to September 2012. Blood culture bottles received from immunocompromised patients were dealt by two methods, brain heart infusion (BHI) broth based manual method and automated BACTEC system. The samples yielding positive growth from either of two methods were further analyzed. The identification of isolates was done with the help of biochemical reactions and rapid tests. Antimicrobial susceptibility of the isolates was carried out as per recommendations of Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI). Out of the 938 blood culture specimens received from immunocompromised patients, 188 (20%) yielded positive growth. Out of these, 89 (47.3%) isolates were Gram positive and Gram negative each, while 10 (5.3%) isolates were fungi (Candida spp.). In case of Gram positive isolates, 75 (84.3%) were Staphylococcus spp. and 51 (67%) were Methicillin resistant. Amongst Gram negative group 49 (55.1%) isolates were of enterobacteriaceae family, while 40 (44.9%) were non-lactose fermenters (NLF). In vitro antimicrobial susceptibility of Staphylococci revealed 100% susceptibility to vancomycin and linezolid. The enterobacteriaceae isolates had better susceptibility against amikacin 85.7% compared to tigecycline 61.2% and imipenem 59.2%. For NLF, the in vitro efficacy of aminoglycosides was 72.5%. The frequency of Gram positive and Gram negative organisms causing blood stream infections in immunocompromised patients was equal. Vancomycin in case of Gram positive and amikacin for Gram negative organisms revealed better in vitro efficacy as compared to other antibiotics.

Effect of an alkaloidal fraction of Tabernaemontana elegans (Stapf.) on selected micro-organisms.

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Pallant, C A; Cromarty, A D; Steenkamp, V

2012-03-27

Bacterial infections remain a significant threat to human health. Due to the emergence of widespread antibiotic resistance, development of novel antibiotics is required in order to ensure that effective treatment remains available. There are several reports on the ethnomedical use of Tabernaemontana elegans pertaining to antibacterial activity. The aim of this study was to isolate and identify the fraction responsible for the antimicrobial activity in Tabernaemontana elegans (Stapf.) root extracts. The active fraction was characterized by thin layer chromatography (TLC) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Antibacterial activity was determined using the broth micro-dilution assay and antimycobacterial activity using the BACTEC radiometric assay. Cytotoxicity of the crude extract and fractions was assessed against primary cell cultures; lymphocytes and fibroblasts; as well as a hepatocarcinoma (HepG2) and macrophage (THP-1) cell line using the Neutral Red uptake and MTT assays. The crude root extracts were found to contain a high concentration of alkaloids (1.2%, w/w). GC-MS analysis identified the indole alkaloids, voacangine and dregamine, as major components. Antibacterial activity was limited to the Gram-positive bacteria and Mycobacterium species, with MIC values in the range of 64-256μg/ml. When combined with antibiotics, additive antibacterial effects were observed. Marked cytotoxicity to all cell lines tested was evident in the MTT and Neutral Red uptake assays, with IC(50) values <9.81μg/ml. This study confirms the antibacterial activity of Tabernaemontana elegans and supports its potential for being investigated further for the development of a novel antibacterial compound. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Pathogens Causing Blood Stream Infections and their Drug Susceptibility Profile in Immunocompromised Patients

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Fayyaz, M.; Mirza, I.A.; Ikram, A.; Hussain, A.; Ghafoor, T.; Shujat, U.

2013-01-01

Objective: To determine the types of pathogens causing blood stream infections and their drug susceptibility profile in immunocompromised patients. Study Design: Cross-sectional, observational study. Place and Duration of Study: Department of Microbiology, Armed Forces Institute of Pathology, Rawalpindi, from January to September 2012. Methodology: Blood culture bottles received from immunocompromised patients were dealt by two methods, brain heart infusion (BHI) broth based manual method and automated BACTEC system. The samples yielding positive growth from either of two methods were further analyzed. The identification of isolates was done with the help of biochemical reactions and rapid tests. Antimicrobial susceptibility of the isolates was carried out as per recommendations of Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI). Results: Out of the 938 blood culture specimens received from immunocompromised patients, 188 (20%) yielded positive growth. Out of these, 89 (47.3%) isolates were Gram positive and Gram negative each, while 10 (5.3%) isolates were fungi (Candida spp.). In case of Gram positive isolates, 75 (84.3%) were Staphylococcus spp. and 51 (67%) were Methicillin resistant. Amongst Gram negative group 49 (55.1%) isolates were of enterobacteriaceae family, while 40 (44.9%) were non-lactose fermenters (NLF). In vitro antimicrobial susceptibility of Staphylococci revealed 100% susceptibility to vancomycin and linezolid. The enterobacteriaceae isolates had better susceptibility against amikacin 85.7% compared to tigecycline 61.2% and imipenem 59.2%. For NLF, the in vitro efficacy of aminoglycosides was 72.5%. Conclusion: The frequency of Gram positive and Gram negative organisms causing blood stream infections in immunocompromised patients was equal. Vancomycin in case of Gram positive and amikacin for Gram negative organisms revealed better in vitro efficacy as compared to other antibiotics. (author)

Prevalence of bloodstream pathogens is higher in neonatal encephalopathy cases vs. controls using a novel panel of real-time PCR assays.

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Tann, Cally J; Nkurunziza, Peter; Nakakeeto, Margaret; Oweka, James; Kurinczuk, Jennifer J; Were, Jackson; Nyombi, Natasha; Hughes, Peter; Willey, Barbara A; Elliott, Alison M; Robertson, Nicola J; Klein, Nigel; Harris, Kathryn A

2014-01-01

In neonatal encephalopathy (NE), infectious co-morbidity is difficult to diagnose accurately, but may increase the vulnerability of the developing brain to hypoxia-ischemia. We developed a novel panel of species-specific real-time PCR assays to identify bloodstream pathogens amongst newborns with and without NE in Uganda. Multiplex real-time PCR assays for important neonatal bloodstream pathogens (gram positive and gram negative bacteria, cytomegalovirus (CMV), herpes simplex virus(HSV) and P. falciparum) were performed on whole blood taken from 202 encephalopathic and 101 control infants. Automated blood culture (BACTEC) was performed for all cases and unwell controls. Prevalence of pathogenic bacterial species amongst infants with NE was 3.6%, 6.9% and 8.9%, with culture, PCR and both tests in combination, respectively. More encephalopathic infants than controls had pathogenic bacterial species detected (8.9%vs2.0%, p = 0.028) using culture and PCR in combination. PCR detected bacteremia in 11 culture negative encephalopathic infants (3 Group B Streptococcus, 1 Group A Streptococcus, 1 Staphylococcus aureus and 6 Enterobacteriacae). Coagulase negative staphylococcus, frequently detected by PCR amongst case and control infants, was considered a contaminant. Prevalence of CMV, HSV and malaria amongst cases was low (1.5%, 0.5% and 0.5%, respectively). This real-time PCR panel detected more bacteremia than culture alone and provides a novel tool for detection of neonatal bloodstream pathogens that may be applied across a range of clinical situations and settings. Significantly more encephalopathic infants than controls had pathogenic bacterial species detected suggesting that infection may be an important risk factor for NE in this setting.

Prevalence of bloodstream pathogens is higher in neonatal encephalopathy cases vs. controls using a novel panel of real-time PCR assays.

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Cally J Tann

Full Text Available In neonatal encephalopathy (NE, infectious co-morbidity is difficult to diagnose accurately, but may increase the vulnerability of the developing brain to hypoxia-ischemia. We developed a novel panel of species-specific real-time PCR assays to identify bloodstream pathogens amongst newborns with and without NE in Uganda.Multiplex real-time PCR assays for important neonatal bloodstream pathogens (gram positive and gram negative bacteria, cytomegalovirus (CMV, herpes simplex virus(HSV and P. falciparum were performed on whole blood taken from 202 encephalopathic and 101 control infants. Automated blood culture (BACTEC was performed for all cases and unwell controls.Prevalence of pathogenic bacterial species amongst infants with NE was 3.6%, 6.9% and 8.9%, with culture, PCR and both tests in combination, respectively. More encephalopathic infants than controls had pathogenic bacterial species detected (8.9%vs2.0%, p = 0.028 using culture and PCR in combination. PCR detected bacteremia in 11 culture negative encephalopathic infants (3 Group B Streptococcus, 1 Group A Streptococcus, 1 Staphylococcus aureus and 6 Enterobacteriacae. Coagulase negative staphylococcus, frequently detected by PCR amongst case and control infants, was considered a contaminant. Prevalence of CMV, HSV and malaria amongst cases was low (1.5%, 0.5% and 0.5%, respectively.This real-time PCR panel detected more bacteremia than culture alone and provides a novel tool for detection of neonatal bloodstream pathogens that may be applied across a range of clinical situations and settings. Significantly more encephalopathic infants than controls had pathogenic bacterial species detected suggesting that infection may be an important risk factor for NE in this setting.

[THE RESULTS OF IMPLEMENTATION OF THE INTERNATIONAL BANK FOR RECONSTRUCTION AND DEVELOPMENT LOAN PROJECT "PREVENTION, DIAGNOSIS, AND TREATMENT OF TUBERCULOSIS AND AIDS", A "TUBERCULOSIS" COMPONENT].

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2010-01-01

Due to the implementation of the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) loan project "Prevention, diagnosis, treatment of tuberculosis and AIDS", a "Tuberculosis" component that is an addition to the national tuberculosis control program in 15 subjects of the Russian Federation, followed up by the Central Research Institute of Tuberculosis, Russian Academy of Medical Sciences, the 2005-2008 measures stipulated by the Project have caused substantial changes in the organization of tuberculosis control: implementation of Orders Nos. 109, 50, and 690 and supervision of their implementation; modernization of the laboratories of the general medical network and antituberbulosis service (404 kits have been delivered for clinical diagnostic laboratories and 12 for bacteriological laboratories, including BACTEC 960 that has been provided in 6 areas); 91 training seminars have been held at the federal and regional levels; 1492 medical workers have been trained in the detection, diagnosis, and treatment of patients with tuberculosis; 8 manuals and guidelines have been prepared and sent to all areas. In the period 2005-2008, the tuberculosis morbidity and mortality rates in the followed-up areas reduced by 1.2 and 18.6%, respectively. The analysis of patient cohorts in 2007 and 2005 revealed that the therapeutic efficiency evaluated from sputum smear microscopy increased by 16.3%; there were reductions in the proportion of patients having ineffective chemotherapy (from 16.1 to 11.1%), patients who died from tuberculosis (from 11.6 to 9.9%), and those who interrupted therapy ahead of time (from 11.8 to 7.8%). Implementation of the IBR project has contributed to the improvement of the national strategy and the enhancement of the efficiency of tuberculosis control.

Development of a rapid and simplified protocol for direct bacterial identification from positive blood cultures by using matrix assisted laser desorption ionization time-of- flight mass spectrometry.

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Jakovljev, Aleksandra; Bergh, Kåre

2015-11-06

Bloodstream infections represent serious conditions carrying a high mortality and morbidity rate. Rapid identification of microorganisms and prompt institution of adequate antimicrobial therapy is of utmost importance for a successful outcome. Aiming at the development of a rapid, simplified and efficient protocol, we developed and compared two in-house preparatory methods for the direct identification of bacteria from positive blood culture flasks (BD BACTEC FX system) by using matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI TOF MS). Both methods employed saponin and distilled water for erythrocyte lysis. In method A the cellular pellet was overlaid with formic acid on the MALDI TOF target plate for protein extraction, whereas in method B the pellet was exposed to formic acid followed by acetonitrile prior to placing on the target plate. Best results were obtained by method A. Direct identification was achieved for 81.9 % and 65.8 % (50.3 % and 26.2 % with scores >2.0) of organisms by method A and method B, respectively. Overall concordance with final identification was 100 % to genus and 97.9 % to species level. By applying a lower cut-off score value, the levels of identification obtained by method A and method B increased to 89.3 % and 77.8 % of organisms (81.9 % and 65.8 % identified with scores >1.7), respectively. Using the lowered score criteria, concordance with final results was obtained for 99.3 % of genus and 96.6 % of species identifications. The reliability of results, rapid performance (approximately 25 min) and applicability of in-house method A have contributed to implementation of this robust and cost-effective method in our laboratory.

Contaminação microbiana de hemodialisadores processados pelo método automatizado e manual após o número máximo de reusos

OpenAIRE

Alexandra do Rosario Toniolo

2014-01-01

Introdução: A hemodiálise é um procedimento invasivo, para pacientes em falência renal onde se realiza a filtração do sangue continuamente, utilizando-se circulação extracorpórea em um filtro hemodialisador. No Brasil, a prática do reuso de hemodialisadores atinge quase 100% nos serviços de diálise. Uma das justificativas para o reuso são os limitados recursos para a assistência à saúde. No entanto, esta prática, causa questionamentos relacionados à segurança. Erros técnicos no reprocessament...

Nueva sede del banco hipotecario de España. Madrid. España

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González Pérez, José Ignacio

1989-02-01

Full Text Available The new office building of the Banco Hipotecario de España (Mortgage Bank of Spain located in downtown Madrid at 12 Paseo de Recoletos, is one of the most characteristic examples of a determinate construction procedure in this city. The original façades of the building were preserved and restored due to the necessity of taking into account the urban landscape. Stabilizing scaffolding and gunite in the interior of said façades were used in the restoration process. Because of the necessity of clearing and removing earth from the lot to construct three basements, as well as the presence of joint party walls, core walls and perimetre piles with antifuniculars for shoring up were also constructed. This new building meets all the needs of a modern bank, being equipped with an automated management and control system.

El nuevo edificio de oficinas para el Banco Hipotecario de España, situado en el centro de Madrid en el paseo de Recoletos, n° 12, constituye un ejemplo característico en la ciudad de un determinado proceso constructivo. La obligada consideración del paisaje urbano ha tenido como consecuencia la conservación y restauración de las fachadas del edificio primitivo. En el proceso se han utilizado andamios estabilizadores y gunitado interior de dichas fachadas. La necesidad de vaciar el solar para construir tres sótanos, así como la presencia de las medianerías colindantes, han conllevado la construcción de muros pantallas y pilotes perimetrales con antifuniculares de arriostramiento. El nuevo edificio responde a las necesidades de un banco moderno, así pues va dotado de un sistema automatizado de gestión y control.

Modelo conceptual de datos difusos de triaje para emergencia hospitalaria representado con FuzzyEER

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Wuilfredo Rangel

2010-05-01

Full Text Available El triaje de emergencia persigue desarrollar el proceso de valorización clínica preliminar para ordenar los pacientes según el nivel de urgencia o gravedad, antes de la atención médica, de forma que en una condición de saturación del servicio o disminución de recursos, los pacientes más graves sean tratados con prioridad. Un proceso de triaje presenta un alto grado de imprecisión o incertidumbre al momento de expresar el estado de salud de un paciente, en consecuencia puede haber dificultad y riesgo en la clasificación de las urgencias. En los servicios de emergencias de loshospitales públicos venezolanos, en especial el servicio de emergencia del Hospital Universitario de Caracas (HUC, seha evidenciado un incremento en el número de casos que se atienden, siendo una constante la saturación del servicio, lo cual imposibilita que los pacientes con prioridad de atención, sean tratados más rápidamente de forma oportuna y eficaz. En este trabajo se propone un modelo conceptual de datos difuso de triaje para el sector salud venezolano basado en el proceso de triaje hospitalario de la Sociedad Venezolana de Medicina de Emergencia y Desastres (SVMED, ya que un modelo de datos que contemple la representación de atributos difusos puede representar de mejor forma los requerimientos del sistema. El modelo propuesto utiliza la notación Entidad Relación con elementos difusos (FuzzyEER para la representación de las entidades y atributos con imprecisión. Dicho modelo será la base de un sistema automatizado de triaje que hará uso del lenguaje de consultas difusas FSQL (Fuzzy SQL.

UN PATRÓN DE INTERACCIÓN ENTRE DIAGRAMAS DE ACTIVIDADES UML Y SISTEMAS WORKFLOW AN INTERACTION PATTERN BETWEEN UML ACTIVITY DIAGRAMS AND WORKFLOW SYSTEMS

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Marta Silvia Tabares

2008-12-01

Full Text Available Actualmente en los ambientes de desarrollo de software hay un gran interés en buscar y desarrollar técnicas que puedan integrar los sistemas transaccionales con los flujos de trabajo que soportan los procesos del negocio de las organizaciones. Sin embargo, en la industria del software no es común encontrar técnicas o prácticas que faciliten el desarrollo de los modelos del sistema en función de los procesos del negocio. En este artículo se define un patrón de desarrollo que estandariza la interacción entre diagramas de actividades de UML 2.0, que representan las operaciones de un sistema, y procesos del negocio automatizados bajo tecnologías workflow. La trazabilidad de dicha interacción se mantiene por medio de modelos de trazabilidad que controlan la evolución de las operaciones del negocio y del sistema. Para mostrar la aplicación del patrón se desarrolla un caso de estudioIn software development environments there is a big interest to look and develop techniques that could integrate transactional systems with Workflow systems in order to support the business processes in organizations Nevertheless, in the software industry it is not common to find techniques or practices that facilitate the development of system models according to the business processes. In this article we define a development pattern to standardize the interaction between UML 2.0 activity diagrams, which represent the operations of a system, and the business processes automated by means of Workflow technologies. The traceability of the above mentioned interaction is supported by means of traceability models that control the evolution of both operations of the business and of the system. To show the application of the pattern a case study is developed.

Aplicación del Modelo Integrado de Desarrollo (BIM en el Diseño de Proyectos para Oficina Abierta

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Julián Alfonso Tristancho Ortiz

2011-12-01

Full Text Available La industria del mueble en Colombia está en permanente competencia con multinacionales donde los procesos de especificación y diseño de proyectos son altamente automatizados. Las empresas nacionales del mueble, PYMES en su mayoría, deben implementar sistemas eficientes para el diseño y venta de proyectos de oficina abierta, reemplazando los métodos manuales tradicionales, sin perder el enfoque sobre el mercado nacional. Las técnicas de Modelo Integrado de Desarrollo (BIM se han usado para combinar la información geométrica (dimensiones y ubicación suministrada en un diseño CAD convencional, con la información de costos, la de planeación y la de construcción en proyectos arquitectónicos. La disminución de costes en los sistemas CAD, han permitido que esta metodología de diseño se haya expandido a otras ramas de la construcción e ingeniería. En el presente artículo se hace una breve descripción del método BIM y cómo fue implementado en un software (OffiCAD que acoplado con un sistema CAD comercial, permite el diseño asistido de proyectos de oficina abierta. OffiCAD integra la información geométrica de diseño realizada en el sistema CAD, con información en base de datos de producto para cotización, visualización de acabados y producción; además de sistemas inteligentes de referenciación, corrección y verificación de errores de diseño.

Comparision of the BAX® System with an in-house MSRV method for the detection of Salmonella in chicken carcasses and pork meat Comparação do Sitema BAX® com o Método MSRV para detecção de Salmonella em carcaças de frango e carnes suínas

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Paulo R. Franchin

2006-12-01

Full Text Available A study was performed to compare the analytical procedure of the BAX® System for Salmonella PCR assay with the Modified Semi-Solid Rappaport-Vassiliadis (MSRV method, for the detection of Salmonella in naturally contaminated chicken carcass samples (n = 762 and raw pork meat (n = 566. The chicken carcasses samples were collected during slaughtering after defeathering or immediately after evisceration and the raw pork meat collected from the deboned head of recently slaughtered pigs and others deboned raw fresh pork meat. The BAX® System detected 134 Salmonella-positive samples in chicken carcasses and 145 samples in pork meat, while the MSRV method isolated 142 and 144 Salmonella-positive samples, respectively. No significant difference was observed between the two methods for chicken carcasses and pork meat, according to McNemar test at the 5% level.Um estudo foi realizado com o objetivo de comparar o procedimento analítico de detecção de Salmonella com o Sistema BAX® automatizado, baseado na Reação em Cadeia da Polimerase (PCR com o método de Rappaport-Vassiliadis em Agar Semi-Sólido modificado (MSRV para detecção de Salmonella em amostras de carcaças de frango naturalmente contaminadas (n=762 e retalhos de carne suía (n=566. O Sistema BAX® detectou 134 amostras positivas para Salmonella em carcaças de frango e 145 amostras positivas para Salmonella em retalhos de carne suína, enquanto o MSRV detectou 142 e 144 amostras positivas respectivamente. Não houve diferença estatisticamente significativa entre os dois métodos, segundo McNemar ao nível de significância de 5%.

Condiciones objetivas y subjetivas de trabajo y trastornos psicofísicos Objective and subjective working conditions and psychophysical disorders

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Margarita Pulido-Navarro

2003-02-01

Full Text Available Se analiza la relación entre las condiciones laborales, los trastornos psicofísicos y la valoración sobre el contenido del trabajo en una industria químico farmacéutica en México. Se llevó a cabo un estudio transversal a través de la aplicación de tres instrumentos: una guía de observación del proceso de trabajo, una guía para valorar las condiciones de seguridad e higiene en la empresa y una encuesta epidemiológica (N = 377. Los resultados muestran un proceso laboral muy automatizado, pero con una organización del trabajo principalmente fordista. Se encontraron fuertes asociaciones entre conjuntos de exigencias y conjuntos patológicos. La percepción que la población en estudio tiene de su trabajo (valoración, satisfacción, contenido, apoyo social muestra relación con algunos daños a la salud. Se pudo concluir que tanto las condiciones objetivas de trabajo como las subjetivas juegan un papel importante en la generación de enfermedades en los trabajadores.The relationship between working conditions, psychophysical disorders, and employees' attitudes towards their jobs were analyzed in a pharmaceutical factory in Mexico. A cross-sectional study was conducted using three instruments: guided observation of job processes, guided evaluation of health and safety conditions, and an epidemiological questionnaire (N = 377. Tasks were found to be automated to a considerable degree, but organization was basically Fordist. Strong associations were found between sets of job requirements and certain groups of health outcomes. In the study population, perception of the job (attitude, satisfaction, control, and social support showed an association with certain health problems. The study concluded that both subjective and objective occupational conditions play an important role in workers' health.

Marcas de destino y evaluación de sitios web: una metodología de investigación

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J Fernández-Cavia

2013-10-01

Full Text Available ntroducción: La Web se ha convertido en el principal instrumento de búsqueda de información por parte de los turistas. Por este motivo, los portales turísticos de los destinos deben resultar atractivos y comunicar de una manera adecuada y eficaz su imagen de marca. No existe, sin embargo, una metodología de evaluación de la calidad y eficacia comunicativa de los sitios web de destino que sea científicamente sólida y universalmente aceptada. El desarrollo de esa metodología es una de las tareas que nos hemos propuesto en el marco del proyecto de investigación “Nuevas estrategias de publicidad y promoción de las marcas turísticas españolas en la web” (CSO2008-02627, financiado por el Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación del Gobierno de España. Metodología: El equipo del proyecto ha elaborado una plantilla de análisis interdisciplinaria y omnicomprensiva que combina algunos análisis automatizados con otros de tipo cualitativo y cuantitativo. La plantilla contempla un total de doce temáticas y 154 indicadores, que se han elaborado a partir de la aportación de destacados expertos en cada una de las áreas de trabajo. En este artículo se expone la metodología de análisis elaborada y se explican las aplicaciones posibles. Resultados: El proyecto ha elaborado una metodología de evaluación que permite optimizar los sitios web de las marcas de destino, apoyando, así, el trabajo de los gestores públicos de los destinos turísticos.

Estrategias en la construcción de un prototipo como modelo integral en la gestión investigativa orientado hacia el esquema de negocio

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Nancy E Ochoa G

2015-10-01

Full Text Available Este artículo muestra los resultados del proyecto Geinve v1.0, el cual busca fortalecer los procesos automatizados de la universidad ECCI, con el apoyo de su grupo de investigación Sistema de Gestión Científica y Tecnología, Sigcienty, y los semilleros Mente Viva y Aprovechando la Web. Además se responde a la pregunta de investigación: ¿cuáles son las estrategias para la construcción de un prototipo inicial para un modelo integral en la gestión investigativa en la Universidad ECCI, orientado hacia el esquema de negocio? Dando alcance a la estructura organizacional de la Universidad y a la Gerencia de Proyectos de la Vicerrectoría de Investigación, se tomó como base para el desarrollo de este trabajo, la metodología RUP, con el acompañamiento del lenguaje del modelo unificado-UML y la metodología Proyect Management Body of Knowledge –PMBOK-, con el fin de administrar y controlar la gestión de los proyectos de investigación desde el área de negocios y las especificaciones métricas de un sistema de información (software, respectivamente. En el avance de dicha gestión se implementó un prototipo funcional en línea a través de un sitio web, como método de prueba del avance de dichas metodologías, logrando dar una iniciativa al interior de la Universidad ECCI sobre la organización y valorización de los productos de investigación de la comunidad científicay académica en la ciudad de Bogotá, Colombia.

Estimativa das máximas pistas de vento no reservatório da barragem de Ilha Solteira, Estado de São Paulo - DOI: 10.4025/actascitechnol.v29i1.112

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Marcelo Marques

2007-12-01

Full Text Available Grande parte dos métodos empregados na estimativa da altura de ondas, geradas pela ação do vento, necessita da determinação do comprimento da pista sobre a qual o vento atua. A escolha do método depende da natureza do corpo de água, podendo ser aplicável a áreas oceânicas ou a corpos d’água interiores, como baías, lagos e reservatórios. Uma das soluções rotineiras tem sido a aplicação direta do método validado em águas oceânicas para águas interiores sem levar, portanto, em consideração, o efeito de restrição oferecido pelas margens. Não obstante, a excessiva quantidade de operações do método aplicado a corpos de água interiores (onde a margem é condição de restrição, pode, se não usado uma base gráfica suficientemente precisa da margem acrescido da subjetividade do operador, não assegurar um grau de precisão satisfatório. Assim exposto, esta comunicação científica traz à luz esta discussão, propondo uma solução clássica baseada na aplicação do método adequado a águas interiores (Saville et al., 1954, via processamento automatizado. Para tanto, foi desenvolvido um programa em linguagem computacional AutoLISP. A aplicação do programa determinou as máximas pistas de vento no reservatório da barragem de Ilha Solteira, Estado de São Paulo, como estando entre 9,5 e 12,5 km, contrariamente a um estudo anterior que havia previsto pistas bem superiores (fator da ordem de 3.

Preparing a voxel-simulator of Alderson Rando physical phantom

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Boia, Leonardo S.; Martins, Maximiano C.; Silva, Ademir X.; Salmon Junior, Helio A.; Soares, Alessandro F.N.S.

2011-01-01

There are, nowadays, sorts of anthropomorphycal phantoms which are used for simulation of radiation transport by the matter and also the deposition of energy in such radiation in human tissues and organs, because an in-vitro dosimetry becomes very either complicated or even impossible in some cases. In the present work we prepared a computational phantom in voxels based on computational tomography of Rando-Alderson. This phantom is one of the most known human body simulators on the scope of ionizing radiation dosimetry, and it is used for radioprotection issues and dosimetry from radiotherapy and brachytherapy treatments as well. The preparation of a voxel simulator starts with the image acquisition by a tomograph found at COI/RJ (Clinicas Oncologicas Integradas). The images were generated with 1mm cuts and collected for analysis. After that step the images were processed in SAPDI (Sistema Automatizado de Processamento Digital de Imagem) in order to amplify the images regions intending to facilitate the task in their segmentation. SAPDI is based on parameters described by Hounsfield scale. After that, it has begun discretization of elements in IDs voxels using Scan2MCNP software - which converts images to a sequential text file containing the voxels' IDs ready to be introduced into MCNPX input; however, this set can be turned to a voxel's IDs matrix and used in other Monte Carlo codes, such as Geant4, PENELOPE and EGSnrc. Finished this step, the simulator is able to simulate with accurate geometry the physical phantom. It's possible to study a large number of cases by computational techniques of geometry's insertions of tumors and TLDs, which makes this simulator a research material useful for a lot of subjects. (author)

Granjas avícolas y autosuficiencia de maíz y soya: caso Tungurahua-Ecuador

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Pablo Pomboza-Tamaquiza

2018-01-01

Full Text Available Objetivo: caracterizar las granjas avícolas y la autosuficiencia de maíz y soya, en Tungurahua-Ecuador. Metodología: se realizaron entrevistas a noventa avicultores seleccionados mediante muestreo no probabilístico; se utilizó estadísticas de producción y exportaciones reportadas por la Asociación de Fabricantes de Balanceados (AFABA y el Ministerio de Agricultura, Ganadería, Acuacultura y Pesca (MAGAP, y se calcularon índices de Tasa Media de Variación Acumulada y autosuficiencia y dependencia alimentaria. Resultados: en Tungurahua el 78% de avicultores se dedican a la crianza de aves de postura y el 62% tienen instalaciones semiautomatizadas. El 100% de maíz y soya utilizado por la avicultura de Tungurahua, procede de otras provincias e importaciones internacionales. Entre el 2007 y 2016, el maíz registró un índice de autosuficiencia promedio anual de 0.9, mientras que la soya registró 0.08. Limitaciones: la información estadística de producción nacional e importaciones de granos se encontró dispersa. Conclusiones: los resultados indican la presencia de diversos tipos de sistemas de producción avícola. Éstos, según el nivel tecnológico, van desde los artesanales hasta los automatizados. Así mismo, la producción nacional alcanza a cubrir con dificultad la demanda nacional del sector avícola, no así la soya nacional que cubre una mínima parte. Con base en éstos resultados se sugiere mantener la política de sustitución de importaciones de maíz amarillo y ampliar a la soya.

Estudio clínico y microbiológico de la infección urinaria asociada a catéter, en los servicios de medicina interna de un hospital universitario venezolano

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Pedro Quijada-Martínez

Full Text Available Objetivos. Determinar las características clínicas y microbiológicas de las infecciones del tracto urinario asociadas acatéter (ITUAC en pacientes hospitalizados en los servicios de Medicina Interna del Hospital Universitario de Los Andes (HULA, Mérida, Venezuela y establecer la distribución clonal de Enterobacteriaceae multirresistentes productoras de esta infección. Materiales y métodos. Se estudiaron 73 pacientes adultos con cateterismo vesical, durante enero a julio de 2015. El procesamiento microbiológico de las muestras de orina se realizó por métodos convencionales y automatizados. Las β-lactamasas de espectro extendido (BLEE y carbapenemasas fueron detectadas fenotípicamente. La tipificación clonal se determinó por la amplificación de secuencias repetitivas por PCR. Resultados. El 53,4% de los pacientes eran varones, con una edad media de 50,6 años. El promedio de permanencia del catéter fue de 10,9 + 6,5 días/paciente. El 54,8% de los pacientes tuvo urocultivos positivos. Las levaduras fueron el principal agente etiológico (44,7%, seguido por las enterobacterias (29,8%. Las enterobacterias, Pseudomonas aeruginosa y Acinetobacter baumannii produjeron BLEE y carbapenemasas asociadas a otros marcadores de resistencia. Dos grupos clonales fueron identificados en cepas de E. coli y K. pneumoniae multirresistentes, los cuales circularon en la unidad de trauma shock de la emergencia de adulto. Conclusiones. Los hallazgos de este estudio permiten evidenciar la necesidad de adoptar estrictos criterios que justifiquen el uso del catéter vesical y la duración del mismo, así como el implementar programas para prevenir y controlar la diseminación de clonas bacterianas multirresistentes en pacientes con ITUAC en los servicios de medicina interna del HULA.

Diseminación de Klebsiella pneumoniae productoras de KPC-3 en hospitales de Bogotá durante un periodo de tres años

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Edna Catering Rodríguez

2014-04-01

Full Text Available Introducción. Uno de los principales problemas de salud pública a nivel mundial son las infecciones producidas por enterobacterias resistentes a los carbapenémicos, entre las cuales Klebsiella pneumoniae es uno de los patógenos que con mayor frecuencia causa infecciones en el ámbito hospitalario. Objetivo. El objetivo del estudio fue describir la diseminación de aislamientos clínicos de K. pneumoniae productores de la enzima KPC-3 recuperados en hospitales de Bogotá. Materiales y métodos. Se analizaron 82 aislamientos de K. pneumoniae resistentes a antibióticos carbapenémicos recuperados entre el 2008 y el 2010 en 10 hospitales, a los cuales se les realizaron pruebas de detección fenotípica de enzimas por difusión de disco y microdilución, y de detección genotípica por PCR. La determinación de perfiles de sensibilidad frente a 13 antimicrobianos se realizó por métodos automatizados y manuales. La relación genética de los aislamientos se obtuvo por la técnica de PFGE. Resultados. Este estudio presenta el panorama del comportamiento de las enterobacterias resistentes a los carbapenémicos diseminadas en el curso de tres años en 10 hospitales de la ciudad, con características de resistencia a múltiples familias de antibióticos y pertenecientes a varios grupos de clones, cada uno con diferentes subtipos. Conclusiones. La diseminación de aislamientos clínicos de K. pneumoniae productores de enzima KPC-3 en Bogotá plantea la necesidad de fortalecer las acciones de vigilancia epidemiológica frente a este tipo de microorganismos y el desarrollo prioritario de actividades específicas de prevención y control de infecciones.

Preparing a voxel-simulator of Alderson Rando physical phantom

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Boia, Leonardo S.; Martins, Maximiano C.; Silva, Ademir X., E-mail: lboia@con.ufrj.br, E-mail: ademir@con.ufrj.br [Programa de Engenharia Nuclear (PEN/COPPE/UFRJ). Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, RJ (Brazil); Salmon Junior, Helio A., E-mail: heliosalmon@coinet.com.br [COI - Clinicas Oncologicas Integradas, MD.X Barra Medical Center, Rio de Janeiro, RJ (Brazil); Soares, Alessandro F.N.S., E-mail: afacure@cnen.gov.br [Comissao Nacional de Engenharia Nuclear (CNEN), Rio de Janeiro, RJ (Brazil)

2011-07-01

There are, nowadays, sorts of anthropomorphycal phantoms which are used for simulation of radiation transport by the matter and also the deposition of energy in such radiation in human tissues and organs, because an in-vitro dosimetry becomes very either complicated or even impossible in some cases. In the present work we prepared a computational phantom in voxels based on computational tomography of Rando-Alderson. This phantom is one of the most known human body simulators on the scope of ionizing radiation dosimetry, and it is used for radioprotection issues and dosimetry from radiotherapy and brachytherapy treatments as well. The preparation of a voxel simulator starts with the image acquisition by a tomograph found at COI/RJ (Clinicas Oncologicas Integradas). The images were generated with 1mm cuts and collected for analysis. After that step the images were processed in SAPDI (Sistema Automatizado de Processamento Digital de Imagem) in order to amplify the images regions intending to facilitate the task in their segmentation. SAPDI is based on parameters described by Hounsfield scale. After that, it has begun discretization of elements in IDs voxels using Scan2MCNP software - which converts images to a sequential text file containing the voxels' IDs ready to be introduced into MCNPX input; however, this set can be turned to a voxel's IDs matrix and used in other Monte Carlo codes, such as Geant4, PENELOPE and EGSnrc. Finished this step, the simulator is able to simulate with accurate geometry the physical phantom. It's possible to study a large number of cases by computational techniques of geometry's insertions of tumors and TLDs, which makes this simulator a research material useful for a lot of subjects. (author)

Factores relacionados con el control exitoso de un brote por Klebsiella pneumoniae productora de KPC-2 en una unidad de cuidado intensivo en Bogotá, Colombia

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Gisell Bustos-Moya

Full Text Available La resistencia a carbapenémicos en Klebsiella pneumoniae ha aumentado de manera considerable, incrementando las tasas de morbimortalidad. El objetivo de este trabajo fue describir las características epidemiológicas, microbiológicas y las medidas de intervención que permitieron el control exitoso de un brote de Klebsiella pneumoniae productora de KPC-2. Métodos: El estudio se realizó en 2 periodos: el primero durante el brote, con instauración de un protocolo de medidas de intervención; y el segundo, de seguimiento posbrote. Se realizaron pruebas de identificación y susceptibilidad por sistema automatizado, tamización de carbapenemasas por test de Hodge modificado, PCR para detección de los genes bla KPC , bla KPC-2 , NDM-1 y estudio de clonalidad por electroforesis de campos pulsados. Resultados: Durante el brote, se identificaron 18 aislamientos de Klebsiella pneumoniae productora de KPC en 11 pacientes. Tres casos fueron confirmados como infección intrahospitalaria. La técnica de PCR reveló la presencia del gen bla KPC en 21 de 22 aislamientos (pacientes y medio ambiente y se identificó la presencia de un clon con una similitud superior al 75%. En el periodo posbrote los cultivos ambientales y de búsqueda de colonizados fueron negativos. Discusión: Se evidenció un control exitoso del brote producido por un clon. La implementación de un protocolo de intervención y la monitorización de su cumplimiento, la comunicación efectiva y el trabajo en equipo fueron indispensables para evitar su propagación y evitar un comportamiento endémico posbrote.

Prevalência de hepatite B em parturientes e perfil sorológico perinatal

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Arraes Luiz Cláudio

2003-01-01

Full Text Available OBJETIVOS: avaliar a prevalência do antígeno de superfície do vírus B da hepatite (HBsAg em parturientes internadas no Instituto Materno-Infantil de Pernambuco (IMIP, Recife-PE, e o perfil sorológico das positivas. MÉTODOS: este é estudo de secção de corte transversal prospectivo no qual foram utilizados os sistemas VIDAS e VIDAS HBs, respectivamente, para detecção e confirmação do HBsAg. As participantes foram selecionadas de forma aleatória. Nas pacientes HBsAg+, os outros marcadores sorológicos foram testados com o sistema automatizado AxSYM. Os recém-nascidos de mães HBsAg+ foram vacinados ao nascer com a vacina Engerix B. RESULTADOS: de um total de 1584, encontramos 9 (0,6% gestantes HBsAg positivas. Nenhuma delas apresentava anti-HBc IgM, sendo assim casos prevalentes. Em 1/9 (11,1% das gestantes havia presença do HBeAg isolado e em 4/9 (44,4%, deste antígeno e seu anticorpo correspondente, revelando os diferentes graus de risco de transmissão vertical da infecção. Com a exceção de dois recém-nascidos de um parto gemelar (um de baixo peso, todos apresentaram soroconversão para o anti-HBs com três doses da vacina. Os gemelares prematuros só mostraram soroconversão após a quarta dose da vacina. CONCLUSÕES: a prevalência da hepatite B em parturientes no IMIP é relativamente baixa e todas as pacientes detectadas então tinham a forma crônica da infecção.

Protocolo para la formación de microtubérculos de ñame (Dioscorea alata L. en sistema de inmersión temporal

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Manuel Cabrera Jova

2009-07-01

Full Text Available Con el propósito de desarrollar un protocolo para la formación de microtubérculos en el clon de ñame Pacala Duclos (Dioscorea alata L. en sistema de inmersión temporal, que pudiera ser usado como alternativa para la propagación de esta especie, se definieron como objetivos de trabajo determinar el efecto del tiempo y la frecuencia de inmersión, así como la influencia del volumen de medio de cultivo por planta cultivada in vitro. Con el empleo de 15 min de inmersión y una frecuencia de inmersión cada 6 horas, se alcanzaron los mejores resultados en cuanto al número de microtubérculos formados por planta. Con este tiempo y frecuencia de inmersión los microtubérculos presentaron la mayor masa fresca y seca, así como el mayor diámetro. Además, a las 18 semanas de cultivo se obtuvo el mayor número total de microtubérculos por sistema y el mayor número de microtubérculos aprovechables como material vegetal de propagación. En cuanto al volumen de medio de cultivo por planta, con 60 ml de medio de cultivo por planta in vitro se alcanzó el mayor número de microtubérculos aprovechables, los cuales presentaron el contenido más alto de materia seca. Los microtubérculos obtenidos en este tipo de sistema de inmersión temporal presentaron una masa fresca superior a 2,40 gMF, lo cual podría permitir su uso como material de plantación directo a campo.Abreviaturas: sistema de inmersión temporal (SIT, gramos de masa fresca (gMF, recipiente de inmersión temporal automatizado (RITA.

Reliability of direct sensitivity determination of blood cultures

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Noman, F.; Ahmed, A.

2008-01-01

The aim of this study was to evaluate the error in interpreting antimicrobial sensitivity by direct method when compared to standard method and find out if specific antibiotic-organism combination had more discrepancies. All blood culture samples received at Microbiology Laboratory from 1st July 2006 to 31st August 2006 were ncluded in the study. All samples were inoculated in automated blood culture system BACTEC 9240 which contained enriched Soybean-Casein Digest broth with CO/sub 2/. Once positive, bottles were removed from system; gram staining of the positive broths was done. Susceptibility test was performed from positive broth, on MHA (Mueller-Hinton Agar), with antibiotics panel according to gram stain result. All positive broths were also sub-cultured on blood agar, chocolate agar and McConkey agar for only gram-negative rods. Next day, the zone sizes of all antibiotics were recorded using measuring scale and at the same time susceptibility test was repeated from isolated colonies from subcultures, with inoculums prepared of McFarland 0.5 standard 0.2 Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 29213); E.coli (ATCC 25922) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (ATCC 27853) were included as quality control strain. Zone sizes were interpreted as sensitive (S), resistant (R) and intermediate (I) according to CLSI recommendation. Two results were compared and recorded. Out of a total 1083 combinations, zone diameters by standard method were either equal or greater than direct zone diameter (never smaller). Most of the discrepancies were in b-lactam/b-lactamase combinations and aminoglycosides. While reporting these groups of antibiotics with direct sensitivity test, one should be cautious. These are the major antibiotic used for life-threatening infections. In case of being heavy/lighter standard inoculums or marginal zones, repeating with standard method should be preferred to minimize the chances of error. (author)

Association of different types of milk feeding with blood culture positive neonatal sepsis

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Anwar, M.; Waheed, K.A.I.; Rehman, A.

2014-01-01

To ascertain and compare microbial growth pattern in blood culture of septic neonates who were either totally breast or formula fed. Study Design: Cross sectional study. Place and Duration of Study: The Children's Hospital Lahore, Pakistan from Feb 2012 to Dec 2012. Methodology: All clinically septic neonates, who were either exclusively breast fed or formula fed, were enrolled in the study. They were divided into two groups and studied for the type of organisms grown on blood culture. Group-A were breast fed and group-B were formula fed. Neonates who were blood culture negative or had growth of multiple organisms or had incomplete data or who died / left against medical advice before completing the required data or babies receiving milk feeding from multiple sources or no feeding at all were excluded. BACTEC technique was used for obtaining bacterial growth. SPSS version 19 was used for statistical analysis. Results: A total of 380 clinically septic neonates were enrolled. Each group consisted of 190 subjects. Incidence of culture positive sepsis in breast fed and in formula fed was 6.7% and 15.7% respectively (p-value = 0.0001). Overall, gram-negative organisms constituted the majority (16.1%). Thirty seven percent cultures grew coagulase negative Staphylococcus (CoNS) followed by Klebsiella spp (23.4%). In group A, gram-negative and gram-positive organisms were equally distributed whilst in group-B, gram-negative organisms were three times more frequent than gram-positive organisms. Predominant pattern of organisms was also different in the two groups. In group-A, CoNS was predominant while in group-B, Klebsiella spp. was most frequent. Conclusion: Culture positive sepsis is more than two times greater in formula fed babies and is caused predominantly by gram-negative organisms whilst in breast fed babies, CoNS is the commonest organism. (author)

Inactivation of Mycobacterium paratuberculosis in cows' milk at pasteurization temperatures.

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Grant, I R; Ball, H J; Neill, S D; Rowe, M T

1996-01-01

The thermal inactivation of 11 strains of Mycobacterium paratuberculosis at pasteurization temperatures was investigated. Cows' milk inoculated with M. paratuberculosis at two levels (10(7) and 10(4) CFU/ml) was pasteurized in the laboratory by (i) a standard holder method (63.5 degrees C for 30 min) and (ii) a high-temperature, short-time (HTST) method (71.7 degrees C for 15 s). Additional heating times of 5, 10, 15, 20, and 40 min at 63.5 degrees C were included to enable the construction of a thermal death curve for the organism. Viability after pasteurization was assessed by culture on Herrold's egg yolk medium containing mycobactin J (HEYM) and in BACTEC Middlebrook 12B radiometric medium supplemented with mycobactin J and sterile egg yolk emulsion. Confirmation of acid-fast survivors of pasteurization as viable M. paratuberculosis cells was achieved by subculture on HEYM to indicate viability coupled with PCR using M. paratuberculosis-specific 1S900 primers. When milk was initially inoculated with 10(6) to 10(7) CFU of M. paratuberculosis per ml, M. paratuberculosis cells were isolated from 27 of 28 (96%) and 29 of 34 (85%) pasteurized milk samples heat treated by the holder and HTST methods, respectively. Correspondingly, when 10(3) to 10(4) CFU of M. paratuberculosis per ml of milk were present before heat treatment, M. paratuberculosis cells were isolated from 14 of 28 (50%) and 19 of 33 (58%) pasteurized milk samples heat treated by the holder and HTST methods, respectively. The thermal death curve for M. paratuberculosis was concave in shape, exhibiting a rapid initial death rate followed by significant "tailing." Results indicate that when large numbers of M. paratuberculosis cells are present in milk, the organism may not be completely inactivated by heat treatments simulating holder and HTST pasteurization under laboratory conditions. PMID:8593064

Clinical and microbiological profile of babies born with risk of neonatal sepsis.

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Zhou, Bin; Liu, Xiao; Wu, Jie-Bin; Jin, Bao; Zhang, Yan-Yan

2016-12-01

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of antibiotics on the condition of babies born with risk of neonatal sepsis. From March, 2014 to February, 2015, 200 neonates born with risk factors of septicemia in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Xuzhou Central Hospital, were enrolled in the present study. Venous blood samples were collected within 6 h of birth using aseptic technique. Part of the blood specimens were cultured using BACTEC PEDS PLUS/F Culture Vials. Subsequently, the subcultures were prepared from each presumptive positive vial and bacterial isolates were identified. The remaining portion was used to measure the level of C-reactive protein (CRP) and total leukocyte count (TLC). The result showed that 32% of neonates were infected, of whom, 21.9% had Staphylococcus aureus , 21.9% had Acinetobacter Baumanni , and 12.5% had Klebsiella pneumoniae . Additionally, Staphylococcus epidermis , Enteroccus spp ., Pseudomonas aeruginosa and E. coli was isolated from 9.4, 7.8, 6.3 and 4.7% of neonates, respectively. The neonates enrolled in the present study had ≥1 risk factor for neonatal sepsis, and the average number of risk factors was 1.95 per neonate. Neonates (39.1%) with positive blood culture results, had a CRP level >0.8 mg/dl, and 12.5% was shown to have an abnormal increase in their leukocyte counts. The association between leukocyte counts and blood culture results was not statistically significant. Of the neonates with positive blood cultures 45.3% died within 7 days after birth, while there was no mortality among those with negative culture results. The results indicate that in the presence of risk factors for sepsis, irrespective of clinical features of septicemia, neonatal sepsis screening should be performed. Rational and appropriate use of antibiotics may minimize the emergence of multidrug resistant bacteria in neonatal units.

Resistance patterns and trends of extensively drug-resistant tuberculosis: 5-year experience

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Amresh Kumar Singh

2013-12-01

Full Text Available Objective:Extensively drug-resistant tuberculosis (XDR-TB strains were emerged when multidrug-resistant TB (MDR- TB was inadequately treated. Inadequate treatment of MDR-TB cases may result in additional resistance especially non-XDR-TB and then XDR-TB. The aim of this study was to know the prevalence, resistance patterns and trends of the XDR-TB strains among the MDR-TB at a tertiary care hospital in Lucknow, India Methods: A total of 430 Mycobacterium isolates were underwent NAP test and TB MPT64 Ag test for the identification of Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC. Drug-susceptibility test (DST was performed over MTBC for the first line drugs by 1% proportion method (Bactec and for the second-line drugs by 1% proportion method (Lowenstein- Jensen media. The XDR-TB status was further confirmed by line probe assay (GenoType® MTBDRsl assay. Results: Among the 430 isolates of mycobacterium, 365 (84.9% were MTBC and 139 (38.1% were MDR-TB respectively. Further 97 MDR-TB from “highly suspected drug resistant-TB (DR-TB” cases among MDR-TB were tested with second line drugs in which 15 (15.5% XDR-TB and 82 (84.5% were non-XDR-TB. Regarding XDR-TB status, using the 1% proportion method a 100% agreement was seen with the GenoType® MTBDRsl assay. Resistance patterns of XDR-TB were as; 10/15 (66.7% as isoniazid + rifampicin + ciprofloxacin + amikacin resistance and 5/15 (33.3% as isoniazid + rifampicin + ciprofloxacin + amikacin + kanamycin resistance. Conclusion:The prevalence of XDR-TB was 15.5% among MDR-TB. Hence laboratory testing of “highly suspected drug resistant-TB” isolates should be done for both first and second line drugs simultaneously especially in developing countries.J Microbiol Infect Dis 2013;3(4: 169-175

Culture Phenotypes of Genomically and Geographically Diverse Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis Isolates from Different Hosts▿

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Whittington, Richard J.; Marsh, Ian B.; Saunders, Vanessa; Grant, Irene R.; Juste, Ramon; Sevilla, Iker A.; Manning, Elizabeth J. B.; Whitlock, Robert H.

2011-01-01

Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis causes paratuberculosis (Johne's disease) in ruminants in most countries. Historical data suggest substantial differences in culturability of M. avium subsp. paratuberculosis isolates from small ruminants and cattle; however, a systematic comparison of culture media and isolates from different countries and hosts has not been undertaken. Here, 35 field isolates from the United States, Spain, Northern Ireland, and Australia were propagated in Bactec 12B medium and Middlebrook 7H10 agar, genomically characterized, and subcultured to Lowenstein-Jensen (LJ), Herrold's egg yolk (HEY), modified Middlebrook 7H10, Middlebrook 7H11, and Watson-Reid (WR) agars, all with and without mycobactin J and some with sodium pyruvate. Fourteen genotypes of M. avium subsp. paratuberculosis were represented as determined by BstEII IS900 and IS1311 restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis. There was no correlation between genotype and overall culturability, although most S strains tended to grow poorly on HEY agar. Pyruvate was inhibitory to some isolates. All strains grew on modified Middlebrook 7H10 agar but more slowly and less prolifically on LJ agar. Mycobactin J was required for growth on all media except 7H11 agar, but growth was improved by the addition of mycobactin J to 7H11 agar. WR agar supported the growth of few isolates. The differences in growth of M. avium subsp. paratuberculosis that have historically been reported in diverse settings have been strongly influenced by the type of culture medium used. When an optimal culture medium, such as modified Middlebrook 7H10 agar, is used, very little difference between the growth phenotypes of diverse strains of M. avium subsp. paratuberculosis was observed. This optimal medium is recommended to remove bias in the isolation and cultivation of M. avium subsp. paratuberculosis. PMID:21430104

High prevalence of tuberculosis and insufficient case detection in two communities in the Western Cape, South Africa.

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Mareli Claassens

Full Text Available In South Africa the estimated incidence of all forms of tuberculosis (TB for 2008 was 960/100000. It was reported that all South Africans lived in districts with Directly Observed Therapy, Short-course. However, the 2011 WHO report indicated South Africa as the only country in the world where the TB incidence is still rising.To report the results of a TB prevalence survey and to determine the speed of TB case detection in the study communities.In 2005 a TB prevalence survey was done to inform the sample size calculation for the ZAMSTAR (Zambia South Africa TB and AIDS Reduction trial. It was a cluster survey with clustering by enumeration area; all households were visited within enumeration areas and informed consent obtained from eligible adults. A questionnaire was completed and a sputum sample collected from each adult. Samples were inoculated on both liquid mycobacterium growth indicator tube (MGIT and Löwenstein-Jensen media. A follow-up HIV prevalence survey was done in 2007.In Community A, the adjusted prevalence of culture positive TB was 32/1000 (95%CI 25-41/1000 and of smear positive TB 8/1000 (95%CI 5-13/1000. In Community B, the adjusted prevalence of culture positive TB was 24/1000 (95%CI 17-32/1000 and of smear positive TB 9/1000 (95%CI 6-15/1000. In Community A the patient diagnostic rate was 0.38/person-year while in community B it was 0.30/person-year. In both communities the adjusted HIV prevalence was 25% (19-30%.In both communities a higher TB prevalence than national estimates and a low patient diagnostic rate was calculated, suggesting that cases are not detected at a sufficient rate to interrupt transmission. These findings may contribute to the rising TB incidence in South Africa. The TB epidemic should therefore be addressed rapidly and effectively, especially in the presence of the concurrently high HIV prevalence.

Susceptibilidad in vitro a los medicamentos anti-tuberculosos de aislados de cepas del complejo Mycobacterium tuberculosis obtenidos a partir de lobos marinos

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Amelia Bernardelli

2004-06-01

Full Text Available Se han hallado cepas de micobacterias aisladas de lobos marinos del Atlántico sur y pertenecen al complejo de Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Los animales se recibieron en las instalaciones del Oceanario Mundo Marino y fueron tratados apropiadamente para su recuperación con la terapia convencional, cuidados intensivos y suplemento alimentario pero no se observó mejoría en su estado general. Se practicaron necropsias en todos los animales y se observaron lesiones extensas compatibles con tuberculosis en pulmones, hígado, bazo y ganglios linfáticos. Para la identificación de las micobacterias, se realizaron pruebas bioquímicas y técnicas de biología molecular con la sonda IS6110. Además, se identificaron todas las cepas como pertenecientes al complejo M. tuberculosis mediante el equipo LCx M. tuberculosis Assay (Abbott Laboratories. El objetivo de este estudio fue determinar in vitro la sensibilidad de las cepas patrón BCG, H37Rv (M. tuberculosis y AN5 (Mycobacterium bovis y la de las siete aisladas de lobos marinos a isoniacida, rifampicina, estreptomicina y etambutol. La concentración inhibitoria mínima (CIM de las drogas antituberculosas se llevó a cabo con el equipo Mycobacterial Growth Indicator Tube (MGIT, BD, Argentina y la microdilución con el ensayo colorimétrico con bromuro de 3-(4-5 dimetiltiazol-2-2,5 difeniltetrazolio. Todos los aislamientos y las cepas de referencia BCG y AN5 se inhibieron con valores CIM de los de H37Rv con buena concordancia entre los resultados obtenidos con ambas técnicas. Los hallazgos permiten sugerir que podrían ser una importante ayuda terapéutica en los lobos marinos con diagnóstico de tuberculosis y evaluar el posible papel sanitario en la prevención y transmisión de la tuberculosis de los animales a los humanos y el trabajo en conjunto.

Use of a molecular diagnostic test in AFB smear positive tuberculosis suspects greatly reduces time to detection of multidrug resistant tuberculosis.

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Nestani Tukvadze

Full Text Available The WHO has recommended the implementation of rapid diagnostic tests to detect and help combat M/XDR tuberculosis (TB. There are limited data on the performance and impact of these tests in field settings.The performance of the commercially available Genotype MTBDRplus molecular assay was compared to conventional methods including AFB smear, culture and drug susceptibility testing (DST using both an absolute concentration method on Löwenstein-Jensen media and broth-based method using the MGIT 960 system. Sputum specimens were obtained from TB suspects in the country of Georgia who received care through the National TB Program.Among 500 AFB smear-positive sputum specimens, 458 (91.6% had both a positive sputum culture for Mycobacterium tuberculosis and a valid MTBDRplus assay result. The MTBDRplus assay detected isoniazid (INH resistance directly from the sputum specimen in 159 (89.8% of 177 specimens and MDR-TB in 109 (95.6% of 114 specimens compared to conventional methods. There was high agreement between the MTBDRplus assay and conventional DST results in detecting MDR-TB (kappa = 0.95, p<0.01. The most prevalent INH resistance mutation was S315T (78% in the katG codon and the most common rifampicin resistance mutation was S531L (68% in the rpoB codon. Among 13 specimens from TB suspects with negative sputum cultures, 7 had a positive MTBDRplus assay (3 with MDR-TB. The time to detection of MDR-TB was significantly less using the MTBDRplus assay (4.2 days compared to the use of standard phenotypic tests (67.3 days with solid media and 21.6 days with broth-based media.Compared to conventional methods, the MTBDRplus assay had high accuracy and significantly reduced time to detection of MDR-TB in an area with high MDR-TB prevalence. The use of rapid molecular diagnostic tests for TB and drug resistance should increase the proportion of patients promptly placed on appropriate therapy.

High incidence of tuberculosis, low sensitivity of current diagnostic scheme and prolonged culture positivity in four colombian prisons. A cohort study.

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Zulma Vanessa Rueda

Full Text Available OBJECTIVE: To determine the incidence of pulmonary tuberculosis (TB in inmates, factors associated with TB, and the time to sputum smear and culture conversion during TB treatment. METHODS: Prospective cohort study. All prisoners with respiratory symptoms (RS of any duration were evaluated. After participants signed consent forms, we collected three spontaneous sputum samples on consecutive days. We performed auramine-rhodamine staining, culturing with the thin-layer agar method, Löwestein-Jensen medium and MGIT, susceptibility testing for first-line drugs; and HIV testing. TB cases were followed, and the times to smear and culture conversion to negative were evaluated. RESULTS: Of 9,507 prisoners held in four prisons between April/30/2010 and April/30/2012, among them 4,463 were screened, 1,305 were evaluated for TB because of the lower RS of any duration, and 72 were diagnosed with TB. The annual incidence was 505 cases/100,000 prisoners. Among TB cases, the median age was 30 years, 25% had <15 days of cough, 12.5% had a history of prior TB, and 40.3% had prior contact with a TB case. TB-HIV coinfection was diagnosed in three cases. History of prior TB, contact with a TB case, and being underweight were risk factors associated with TB. Overweight was a protective factor. Almost a quarter of TB cases were detected only by culture; three cases were isoniazid resistant, and two resistant to streptomycin. The median times to culture conversion was 59 days, and smear conversion was 33. CONCLUSIONS: The TB incidence in prisons is 20 times higher than in the general Colombian population. TB should be considered in inmates with lower RS of any duration. Our data demonstrate that patients receiving adequate anti-TB treatment remain infectious for prolonged periods. These findings suggest that current recommendations regarding isolation of prisoners with TB should be reconsidered, and suggest the need for mycobacterial cultures during follow-up.

Elección de puntos de acceso de autor. Implicaciones de las reglas de catalogación en los catalogos automatizados de la bibliotecas universitarias españolas.

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Ruiz-Pérez, Rafael

2000-12-01

Full Text Available Empirical study on the implications of the rules for the choice of access points during online cataloguing with the purpose of collecting data for the revision of criteria used and developing more functional applications to improve retrieval of information by author name. A sample of 1,315 records from Spanish university libraries was used to study the following: author location sources, potential access points, number of entries made and loss of entries. The results show 5,443 potential author access points (M= 4.14 per item. Distribution by source: title page 52.75%, table of contents 41.6%, other sources 5.6%. Distribution of loss of entries: a 3,184 (58.5% of the total of authors are lost; b 960 (30.2% of title-page authors are lost. An analysis of losses of entries when authors were divided into two groups (one made up of authorship statements of up to 3 authors and the other of over 3 authors shows that the first group accounts for 15.6% of total losses while the second group accounts for 84.4%, with an irregular distribution by type of authorship and with very high losses (90% of co-authors and collaborators. The precise relationship between the high number of losses and the selection criteria used is discussed. The reason for these losses lies in the exclusion of the tables of contents as a source for the provision of entries, the rule of three and other specific limitations; and in ambiguities and gaps in the rules concerning added entries. A revision of criteria used is suggested to adapt online cataloguing practices to the bibliographic reality and to improve author indexes for information retrieval.

Estudio empírico sobre las implicaciones de las reglas de elección de puntos de accesos en catalogación en línea a fin de obtener datos para su revisión y proponer aplicaciones que mejoren la recuperación por autores. Se utiliza una muestra de 1.315 registros de bibliotecas universitarias españolas y se analizan: fuentes de localización de los autores, puntos de acceso potenciales, entradas realizadas y pérdida de entradas. Los resultados muestran 5.443 puntos de acceso potenciales de autor (M = 4,14 por obra. Productividad por fuentes: portada 52,7%, tablas de contenido 41,6%, otras 5,6%. Distribución de la pérdida de entradas: a sobre autores totales se pierden 3.184 (58,5%; b sobre autores de portada 960 (30,2%. Un análisis de pérdidas dividido en dos grupos (menciones de hasta 3 autores y menciones de más de 3 autores muestra que, en el primer grupo, se concentra el 15,6% de las pérdidas totales, y el 84,4% en el segundo grupo, con una distribución irregular por tipo de autorías y con pérdidas muy elevadas (90% en coautores y colaboradores. Se discute la relación puntual entre el elevado número de pérdidas y los distintos criterios de elección. El origen de las pérdidas está en la exclusión de las tablas de contenido como fuente de entradas, en la regla de tres, en limitaciones específicas y en ambigüedades y lagunas de las reglas para entradas secundarias. Se propone una revisión de criterios normativos para adaptar la catalogación en línea a la realidad bibliográfica y para mejorar los índices de autores en la recuperación de información.

Comparison of estimation methods of soil strength in five soils Aplicação de diferentes métodos para estimar a resistência de cinco solos

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Ayodele Ebenezer Ajayi

2009-06-01

para descrever a suscetibilidade a deformação através da pressão causada pelas máquinas agrícolas. Os objetivos deste estudo foram comparar diferentes métodos para estimar a resistência do solo e identificar suas potencialidades para avaliar a capacidade de suporte de carga, a suscetibilidade à compactação e o crescimento de raiz. Os atributos físicos, químicos, mineralógicos e de resistência de amostras de solo, coletadas em cinco trincheiras situadas em várias localidades no Brasil, foram medidos neste estudo. Quatro solos muito argilosos (CS e três franco-argiloarenosos (SCL foram usados. Os solos argilosos foram coletados em um Fazenda em Santo Ângelo, RS (28 º 16 ' 16 '' S; 54 º 13 ' 11 '' W; 290 m; e os horizontes A e B, na Universidade Federal de Lavras, Lavras, MG (21 º 13 ' 47 '' S; 44 º 58 ' 6 '' W; 918 m, e na Fazenda da Syngenta, Uberlândia, MG (18 º 58 ' 37 '' S; 48 º 12 ' 05 '' W; 866 m. Os solos franco-argiloarenosos foram coletados em Aracruz, ES (19 º 47 ' 10 '' S; 40 º 16 ' 29 '' W; 81 m, e na Fazenda Xavier, Lavras, MG (21 º 13 ' 24 '' S; 45 º 05 ' 00 '' W; 844 m. A resistência dos solos foi obtida com um consolidômetro pneumático, penetrômetro de bolso manual (não giratório e um penetrômetro automatizado (giratório. Os resultados da resistência do solo foram similares nos três métodos. A estrutura do solo influenciou significativamente sua resistência. Medições com o penetrômetro de bolso manual e o automatizado produziram resultados semelhantes, indicando influência da textura do solo. Os resultados mostraram que, para aumentar a confiabilidade na predição da pressão de preconsolidação usando penetrômetros, é melhor separar os solos em diferentes classes texturais do que analisá-las juntas. Apesar de o método do consolidômetro ser caro, conclui-se que este é o melhor método quando são desejadas avaliações da capacidade de suporte de carga e da suscetibilidade à compactação do solo.

Resposta cardiovascular ao Stroop: comparação entre teste computadorizado e verbal Respuesta cardiovascular al Stroop: comparación entre test computarizado y verbal Cardiovascular response to Stroop test: comparison between the computerized and verbal tests

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Daniel Fernandes Barbosa

2010-04-01

Full Text Available FUNDAMENTO: O teste de Stroop requer que o indivíduo responda a elementos específicos de um estímulo enquanto inibe processos mais automatizados. OBJETIVO: Comparar a reatividade cardiovascular induzida pela versão computadorizada do teste palavra-cor de Stroop - TESTINPACS® com versão tradicional baseada na leitura de palavras impressas. MÉTODOS: A amostra de conveniência foi constituída por 20 mulheres (22,4 ± 4,1 anos. Análises de variância com medidas repetidas foram utilizadas para comparar efeitos principais entre testes (computadorizado, verbal, assim como entre etapas do teste (linha de base, Stroop 1, Stroop 3 das variáveis fisiológicas (pressão arterial, arritmia sinusal respiratória, frequência cardíaca e frequência respiratória. Testes t para amostras pareadas foram utilizados para comparar as médias pressóricas entre o Stroop 3 e a linha de base. Ademais, a magnitude dos efeitos (d' foi estimada a fim avaliar o impacto das diferenças entre as medidas fisiológicas relativas ao Stroop 3 e a linha de base. RESULTADOS: As duas versões do instrumento produziram elevação significativa em frequência cardíaca (pFUNDAMENTO: El test de Stroop requiere que el individuo responda a elementos específicos de un estímulo mientras inhibe procesos más automatizados. OBJETIVO: Comparar la reactividad cardiovascular inducida por la versión computarizada del test de colores y palabras Stroop - TESTINPACS® con la versión tradicional basada en la lectura de palabras impresas. MÉTODOS: La muestra de conveniencia estuvo constituida por 20 mujeres (22,4 ± 4,1 años. Se utilizaron análisis de varianza con medidas repetidas para comparar efectos principales entre ambos test (computarizado, verbal, así como entre etapas del test (línea de base, Stroop1, Stroop 3 de las variables fisiológicas (presión arterial, arritmia sinusal respiratoria, frecuencia cardiaca y frecuencia respiratoria. Para comparar los promedios pres

Method of semi-automatic high precision potentiometric titration for characterization of uranium compounds; Metodo de titulacao potenciometrica de alta precisao semi-automatizado para a caracterizacao de compostos de uranio

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Cristiano, Barbara Fernandes G.; Dias, Fabio C.; Barros, Pedro D. de; Araujo, Radier Mario S. de; Delgado, Jose Ubiratan; Silva, Jose Wanderley S. da, E-mail: barbara@ird.gov.b, E-mail: fabio@ird.gov.b, E-mail: pedrodio@ird.gov.b, E-mail: radier@ird.gov.b, E-mail: delgado@ird.gov.b, E-mail: wanderley@ird.gov.b [Instituto de Radioprotecao e Dosimetria (IRD/CNEN-RJ), Rio de Janeiro, RJ (Brazil); Lopes, Ricardo T., E-mail: ricardo@lin.ufrj.b [Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (LIN/COPPE/UFRJ), RJ (Brazil). Coordenacao dos Programas de Pos-Graduacao de Engenharia. Lab. de Instrumentacao Nuclear

2011-10-26

The method of high precision potentiometric titration is widely used in the certification and characterization of uranium compounds. In order to reduce the analysis and diminish the influence if the annalist, a semi-automatic version of the method was developed at the safeguards laboratory of the CNEN-RJ, Brazil. The method was applied with traceability guaranteed by use of primary standard of potassium dichromate. The standard uncertainty combined in the determination of concentration of total uranium was of the order of 0.01%, which is better related to traditionally methods used by the nuclear installations which is of the order of 0.1%

Impacto de la automatización de los ensayos analíticos en los servicios oncológicos del Laboratorio Clínico Impact of the automation of the analytic assays in the oncological services of the Clinical Laboratory

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María Cristina Céspedes Quevedo

2012-07-01

Full Text Available Se diseñó una investigación longitudinal y prospectiva para evaluar la efectividad de la tecnología Elimat en el Laboratorio Clínico del Hospital Oncológico Docente “Conrado Benítez” de Santiago de Cuba, durante el bienio 2010-2011, al comparar la precisión y los costos mediante el empleo de 8 determinaciones químicas con muestras Elitrol I y II como controladores de calidad, procesadas por métodos automatizado y manual. En la serie se consideraron los indicadores: prueba T para igualdad de medias, coeficientes de variación de rutina e ideal, e índice de varianza; los criterios: escala de evaluación y nivel de significación αA longitudinal and prospective investigation was designed to evaluate the effectiveness of the technology Elimat in the Clinical Laboratory of "Conrado Benítez" Teaching Oncological Hospital from Santiago de Cuba, during the biennium 2010-2011, by comparing the precision and the costs through the use of 8 chemical determinations with Elitrol I and II samples as quality controllers, processed by automatic and manual methods. In the series, indicators such as: T test for equality of means, coefficients of routine and ideal variation, and variance index; the approaches: evaluation scale and significance level a <0.05; as well as the standards: coefficient of ideal variation of each determination and mean values of controllers were considered. An expense of $2 057 pesos more was obtained in the 100 samples manually processed, the global precision was evaluated as good in both methods, the accuracy of the manual technique was evaluated of excellent and that of the automated procedure, was good too, with significant differences between the resulting means of this last one and those of the used controllers. The autoanalizer Elimat produced a positive impact economically and socially; however, as for the quality it presented the same precision and lower accuracy than the manual procedure.

Tratamiento de hábitos bucales deformantes con técnica de auriculoterapia

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Arlene Liset Corrales León

2014-12-01

Full Text Available Introducción: lo que hoy se conoce como medicina natural y tradicional china, en Asia era conocida como medicina simplemente, sin apellidos. A lo largo de la historia el ser humano ha tratado de librarse del flagelo de la enfermedad, por ello, se usan diferentes terapias que mantienen sus fundamentos. Dentro de estas se encuentra la auriculoterapia. Objetivo: valuar la auriculoterapia para la eliminación de los hábitos bucales deformantes, factores que provocan anomalías entomaxilofaciales. Material y método: se realizó un estudio descriptivo, longitudinal, prospectivo, monocéntrico en 116 pacientes (niños pertenecientes al área de salud del policlínico universitario "Luis Augusto Turcios Lima" de Pinar del Río, que acudieron a la consulta de ortodoncia desde el 15 de abril de 2012 al 15 de abril de 2013, y que practicaban uno o más hábitos asociados. Se les aplicó la técnica de auriculoterapia para evaluar la efectividad de este método. Se chequearon por un espacio de 6 meses, para comprobar que eliminaron la práctica de sus hábitos deformantes. Los resultados fueron procesados estadísticamente mediante sistema automatizado statistic y la prueba ji cuadrado, en su aplicación de bondad de ajuste. En todos los casos se prefija un nivel de significación del 0,05. Resultados: se logró eliminar los hábitos deformantes con la técnica de auriculoterapia, resultó aplicable en el hábito de succión digital en 96,4%, le sigue la onicofagia en 95,8%. Las niñas practicaban más hábitos que los varones y se demostró que la influencia familiar ayuda o dificulta el resultado final del tratamiento. Conclusiones: la auriculoterapia resultó una buena terapia para eliminar la mayoría de los hábitos de succión digital y onicofagia.

Construcción de un péndulo de torsión para la medida de la fricción interna a bajas temperaturas

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San Juan, J. M.

2001-04-01

Full Text Available In this work we describe the assembly, operation and specifications of an inverted torsion pendulum designed to measure internal friction at low temperatures (from 4.2 K to 500 K. The high precision mechanics allow us to obtain internal friction spectra with low levels of noise from amplitudes as small as 2x10^-7. The inertia components of the pendulum have been built with specific materials, so that the resonance frequency of the pendulum can be changed within two orders of magnitude (0.1-10 Hz. In addition, the sample can be in situ deformed at any temperature and can be inserted into the pendulum at liquid nitrogen temperature. The operation of the pendulum, all the control processes and data acquisition are completely automated.

En el presente trabajo se describe el montaje, funcionamiento y especificaciones de un péndulo de torsión invertido que permite realizar ensayos de fricción interna desde 4,2 K hasta 500 K. La sección mecánica de la nueva instalación es de alta precisión y la medición de la fricción interna se consigue efectuar con niveles de ruido muy bajos a partir de amplitudes tan pequeñas como 2x10^-7. Los miembros de inercia del péndulo se han construido con materiales específicos, de modo que la frecuencia de resonancia pueda variarse en dos órdenes de magnitud (0.1-10 Hz. Por otro lado, la muestra puede deformarse in situ a cualquier temperatura y puede montarse dentro del péndulo a la temperatura del nitrógeno líquido. El funcionamiento del péndulo y todos los procesos de control y adquisición de datos están completamente automatizados.

Desarrollo de tecnologías de Avanzada para la producción de Fármacos: Análisis Informétrico

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Dayami Laza Loaces

2001-12-01

Full Text Available El desarrollo significativo que ha presentado en las últimas décadas del siglo la Industria Farmacéutica, muestra un marcado interés por investigadores e instituciones científicas en el diseño de medicamentos, con un alcance rápido de un nivel terapéutico efectivo del fármaco en un tiempo breve, que dure desde la recuperación total del paciente hasta la eliminación completa de los síntomas que se quieren suprimir. Se realizó un análisis informétrico sobre las tendencias de investigación en la temática durante los últimos años y para ello se utilizó la información que sobre el tema existe en las bases de datos International Pharmaceutical Abstract y Medline. Estas 2 bases contienen información bibliográfica sobre farmacia, medicina, farmacología, toxicología, etc., susceptible de ser analizada por medios automatizados. Se obtuvo como resultado, después de un análisis minucioso sobre la relevancia de los artículos, una base de datos con 2 855 registros.The significant development of the Pharmaceutical Industry during the last decades shows the marked interest of researchers and scientific institutions in the drug design, which reaches fast an effective therapeutic level of the drug in a short time and that lasts from the total recovery of the patient to the complete elimination of the symptoms. An informetric analysis of the trends of research on this topic during the last years was made by using the information existing on the International Pharmaceutical Abstract and on the Medline databases. These 2 databases contain bibliographic information on pharmacy, medicine, pharmacology, toxicology, etc., that may be analyzed by automated means. After a detailed analysis on the relevance of the articles, a database of 2 855 entries was obtained.

Algoritmo para monitoramento da incidência da malária na Amazônia brasileira, 2003 a 2010

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Rui Moreira Braz

2014-03-01

Full Text Available OBJETIVO: Avaliar um algoritmo para detecção da variação da incidência da malária nos municípios da Amazônia brasileira. MÉTODOS: Avaliou-se um sistema de monitoramento automatizado, baseado em um algoritmo desenvolvido anteriormente pelos autores. O algoritmo utiliza o diagrama de controle por quartis para classificação dos municípios em quatro grupos, conforme a variação da incidência da malária: grupo 1 (redução da incidência-aqueles com incidência abaixo dos valores esperados; grupo 2 (incidência esperada-aqueles com incidência dentro dos valores esperados; grupo 3 (epidemia-aqueles com incidência acima dos valores esperados; grupo 4 (caso esporádico-aqueles com apenas um caso durante o ano. O período de análise foi de 2003 a 2010. Foram estudados todos os municípios existentes nos nove estados que compõem a Amazônia brasileira (805 municípios em 2003 e 807 a partir de 2004. RESULTADOS: Com base nessa metodologia, os municípios da região foram assim classificados: grupo 1, 152 municípios (18,8% da região em 2003 e 109 (13,5% em 2010; grupo 2, 206 (25,6% em 2003 e 331 (41,0% em 2010; grupo 3, 391 (48,6% em 2003 e 308 (38,2% em 2010; e grupo 4, 56 (7,0% em 2003 e 59 (7,3% em 2010. CONCLUSÕES: O algoritmo possibilitou verificar que, na Amazônia brasileira, o número de municípios com epidemias de malária em 2010 diminuiu em relação a 2003, enquanto o número de municípios com incidência esperada aumentou. No mesmo período, houve pouca variação no número de municípios com redução da incidência e daqueles com casos esporádicos.

Factores de riesgo y evaluación del riesgo de muerte hospitalaria en la sustitución valvular mitral con prótesis mecánica

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Karel Morlans Hernández

2003-06-01

Full Text Available Se realizó un estudio prospectivo en 1301 pacientes sometidos a sustitución valvular mitral, en el Instituto de Cardiología y Cirugía Cardiovascular entre enero de 1996 y mayo de 2001. Los objetivos fueron conocer la mortalidad operatoria y establecer las bases de un sistema de puntaje de riesgo de mortalidad. Se determinó el riesgo relativo y las probabilidades de muerte. La mortalidad hospitalaria fue de 9,0 % (27 pacientes. La causa de muerte más frecuente fue el fallo multiorgánico (14 pacientes,51,8 %. Los factores de riesgo más importantes fueron: en el preoperatorio, la cardiomegalia severa (RR 6,1 y la urgencia de la operación (RR 5,1; en el transoperatorio, el bajo gasto cardíaco (RR 6,0 y en el posoperatorio la disfunción neurológica (RR ,33,6 y el fallo multiorgánico (RR 26,9. La mortalidad operatoria es aceptable. El sistema de puntaje de riesgo de muerte es factible y debe ser automatizado y validadoA prospective study was conducted among 1 301 patients who underwent valvular mitral replacement at the Institute of Cardiology and Cardiovascular Surgery from January, 1996, to May, 2001, aimed at knowing the operative mortality and to establish the bases of a mortality risk scoring system. The relative risk and the death probabilities were determined. The hospital mortality was 9.0 % (27 patients. The most frequent cause of death was multiple organ failure (14 patients, 51.8 % The most important risk factors were: in the preoperative, severe cardiomegaly (RR 6.1 and emergency surgery (RR 5.1; in the transoperative, low cardiac output (RR 6.0; and in the postoperative, neurological dysfunction (RR 33.6 and multiple organ failure (RR 26.9. Operative mortality was acceptable. The death risk scoring system is feasible and it should be automated and validated

Uso do desfibrilador automático externo no ambiente pré-hospitalar peruano: melhorando a resposta a emergências na América Latina Use of automated external defibrillator in Peruvian out-of-hospital environment: improving emergency response in Latin America

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Pablo Lister

2009-08-01

Full Text Available Este relato de caso reporta o atendimento pré-hospitalar de um paciente com fatores de risco atendido pelo serviço pré-hospitalar ao ser acometido por uma parada cardíaca e apresentar fibrilação ventricular. O paciente foi atendido seguindo os padrões de suporte básico de vida e suporte cardiovascular avançado. Um desfibrilador automático externo (DAE foi aplicado com resultados favoráveis e o paciente se recuperou do quadro de perigo de vida com sucesso. Este é o primeiro relato documentado com resultados favoráveis no Peru, na área de atendimento pré-hospitalar e enfatiza a necessidade de serem adotadas políticas de acesso público à desfibrilação precoce.El presente reporte de caso, relata la atencion prehospitalaria de un paciente con factores de riesgo atendido en el area prehospitalaria al sufrir arresto cardiaco y presentar fibrilacion ventricular. El paciente fue atendido bajo estandares de Soporte Basico Vital y Soporte Cardiovascular Avanzado Vital, se aplico un Desfibrilador Automatizado Externo (DEA con resultado favorable y exito al recuperar al paciente de su condicion de compromiso de vida. Este es el primer reporte documentado con resultado favorable en el pais, en el area prehospitalaria y refuerza la conveniencia de adoptar politicas de Acceso Publico a la Desfibrilacion Temprana.This case report relates out-of-hospital care to a patient with risk factors treated in the out-of-hospital services after cardiac arrest and ventricular fibrillation. The patient was treated according to the standards of basic life support and advanced cardiovascular life support; by applying an automated external defibrillator (AED with favorable outcome and successful recovery of the patient from his risk of life condition. This is the first documented report with a favorable outcome in Peru, in out-of-hospital services and stresses the desirability of adopting policies for public access to early defibrillation.

Facilitação e dominância dos sintomas sôbre a dor da angina de peito e causalgia

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Nelson Pires

1962-09-01

Full Text Available O autor traz à consideração clínica a "facilitação" que Sherrington apreciou nos experimentos de neurofisiologia, e que explica aspectos clínicos importantíssimos em psicologia e em neurologia visceral. Pretende o autor explicar seus casos de dor (um de causalgia no membro superior e três de angina de peito em portadores de esclerose coronária. Ora a anestesia terapêutica no gânglio estrelado, ora na cadeia ganglionar torácica simpática, ora a radioterapia, ora a psicoterapia removeram a dor "facilitada" a tal ponto que se tornara "dominante", isto é, mesmo estímulos inadequados a provocavam. Os doentes eram inválidos e recuperaram-se. A neurofisiologia moderna autoriza a interpretação dessa terapêutica: suprimiu-se - com a anestesia, com a radioterapia e com a psicoterapia - o circuito neural auto-alimentado reverberante, hiperfuncionante em todo ou em parte de seu trajeto, quer aferente ao córtex quer aferente às coronárias. O autor discute o valor clínico dos acessos anginosos apontando fatos que documentam que o acesso "ilegítimo" (psicógeno deve ter como causa a estimulação das aferências vegetativas ao córtex em qualquer ponto (ganglionar, medular ou cortical. Os acessos "legítimos", produzindo lesões transitórias ou definitivas e até morte,, devem ser explicados pela atividade das eferências vagais que executam os efetôres espásticos das coronárias. A dor é apresentada como fenômeno de "gravação neural", aprendido, memorizado e automatizado, ativado em feed-back ora nas aferências vegetativas ao córtex, ora nas eferências, mais perigosas e mortais. Debate-se a superestimada psicogenia da angina de peito.

Aplicación de un Programa de Inspección de Calidad acorde con las Buenas Prácticas de Laboratorio

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Mayra Castro Nodal

2002-08-01

Full Text Available El proceso de diseño e implementación de un Sistema de Calidad, una de las actividades más importantes y de especial interés lo constituye el sistema de monitoreo mediante el cual se controle o chequee su cumplimiento. El Centro de Química Farmacéutica con el fin de garantizar la calidad, credibilidad e integridad de sus resultados, ha diseñado e implantado un Sistema de Calidad basado en el cumplimiento de las Buenas Prácticas de Laboratorio que es monitoreado mediante la ejecución de un Programa de Inspecciones que abarca todos los objetos de inspección vinculados a la norma de referencia. La ejecución se controla por medio de un Sistema Automatizado de Gestión, con el empleo del Programa Microsoft Access 97, lo que permite incrementar la organización y la eficiencia de esta actividad, además de facilitar la emisión de la información relacionada con este sistema. La aplicación de dicho programa ha contribuido a elevar la calidad de los resultados.In the process of designing and implementing a Quality System, one of the most important and specially interesting activities is the monitoring systems that controls or checks compliance with the quality system. The Pharmaceutics Chemistry Center, with the aim of assuring quality, credibility and integrity of its results, has designed and implemented a Good Lab Practice-based Quality System that is monitored thanks to the implementation of an Inspection Program embracing all objects of inspection linked to the referred standard. The operation is controlled by an Automated Management System using Microsoft Access 97; this makes it possible to increase the organization and efficiency of this activity in addition to facilitating the output of data related to this system. The application of such a program has contributed to raise the quality of the results.

Valor prognóstico da fibronectina plasmática e da classificação de Child-Pugh na cirrose hepática alcoólica: estudo comparativo

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Parise Edison Roberto

2004-01-01

Full Text Available OBJETIVOS: Avaliar o valor prognóstico da fibronectina plasmática (FN, comparativamente à classificação numérica de Child-Pugh e os parâmetros bioquímicos que a compõem, no acompanhamento prospectivo de portadores de cirrose alcoólica durante 18 meses. MÉTODOS: Incluídos 50 pacientes com cirrose alcoólica, diagnosticada por biópsia ou critérios clínico-bioquímicos, excluídos aqueles com hepatocarcinoma ou hemorragia digestiva, infecção ou ingestão alcoólica continuada nos últimos 30 dias. A idade média do grupo foi 51,3±12,6 anos, 72% deles do sexo masculino e classificados 17 como Child-Pugh A, 18 como B e 15 como C. Os valores das bilirrubinas foram dosados pelo método automatizado, eletroforese de proteínas em acetato de celulose e o tempo de protrombina pelo método de Quick. A FN plasmática foi dosada por imunodifusão radial, com anticorpos contra FN humana em géis de agarose a 1%. RESULTADOS: Um paciente foi excluído por óbito de causa não natural e 12 foram a óbito por doença hepática. Os melhores preditores de óbito foram a pontuação de Child-Pugh [escore>10, risco relativo (RR de 11,33 e os valores de bilirrubina (>2,5mg/dL, RR=9,47. A concentração de FN foi significantemente maior nos sobreviventes que naqueles que foram a óbito (185±66 mg/L x 131±38mg/L, p 165mg/L foram melhores indicadores de sobrevida que a classificação de Child-Pugh e seus parâmetros bioquímicos isolados.

Benefits of automated acclimatization during the pre-milking phase of lactating girolando cows Benefícios da climatização automatizada na pré-ordenha de vacas girolando em lactação

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Irenilson M. da Silva

2011-10-01

Full Text Available The aim of this paper was to evaluate the automated acclimatization effects during pre-milking of cows on thermal conditioning, physiology, milk production and cost-benefit of the automated adiabatic evaporative cooling system (AECS. The treatments 20; 30; 40 min and control consisted of exposure time of pre-milking cows to the automated AECS. Sixteen cows were used with an average daily milk yield of 19 kg, distributed in a 4 x 4 Latin square design. The Tukey's test (PObjetivou-se com esta pesquisa avaliar os efeitos da climatização na pré-ordenha sobre o acondicionamento térmico, fisiologia, produção de leite e relação custo/benefício do sistema de resfriamento adiabático evaporativo (SRAE automatizado. Os tratamentos adotados foram os tempos de exposição dos animais ao SRAE no curral de espera, 20; 30; 40 min e o tratamento-controle. Utilizaram-se 16 vacas com produção de 19 kg de leite dia-1, adotando-se delineamento em quadrado latino 4 x 4 e comparação entre as médias pelo teste de Tukey (P<0,05. Foram registradas as variáveis ambientais temperatura de bulbo seco (Tbs e umidade relativa (UR a cada minuto, o que permitiu determinar a eficiência do sistema por meio do índice de temperatura e umidade (ITU. A frequência respiratória (FR, temperatura retal (TR e temperatura de pelame (TP foram medidas antes e depois da climatização. O tratamento 40 min permitiu manter as variáveis ambientais e os índices de conforto entre os limites recomendados. As variáveis fisiológicas (FR, TR e TP mostraram valores inferiores no tratamento 40 min, com aumento de 3,66% na produção de leite, quando comparado com o controle. O investimento promoveu acréscimo na receita mensal de R$ 1.992,67 com tempo de retorno do capital de 43 dias.

Digestibilidade da matéria seca de silagens de milho e de suplementos concentrados determinada por procedimentos in vitro Dry matter digestibility of corn silages and concentrates determined by in vitro procedures

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F.C.F. Lopes

2010-10-01

Full Text Available Compararam-se os valores de digestibilidade in vitro da matéria seca (DIVMS de quatro silagens de milho e de seis concentrados (três proteicos e três energéticos, determinados pelo método de dois estádios realizados em tubos individuais ou em equipamento automatizado de fermentação, e avaliou-se a ocorrência de efeito associativo na digestão de alimentos destas três classes incubadas em um mesmo jarro de fermentação da incubadora in vitro, ou em jarros diferentes contendo a mesma classe de alimentos. Utilizou-se delineamento inteiramente ao acaso, em esquema fatorial 3 x 3 (procedimentos in vitro x classes de alimentos. Os valores de DIVMS determinados pelo método dos tubos foram mais próximos dos relatados na literatura e menores (P0,05 nos valores de DIVMS dos concentrados e das silagens de milho incubados no mesmo jarro de fermentação da incubadora ou, separadamente por alimento, em jarros diferentes.The values of in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD of four corn silages and six concentrates (three proteic and three energetics were determined by the two-stage technique that utilizes individual digestion tubes and by an automatic equipment of fermentation (filter bag technique. It was also evaluated the associative effect on digestion of these three food classes when incubated in the same fermentation jar of the "in vitro incubator" and when in different vessels containing the same class of foods. The experimental design was completely randomized in a 3 x 3 factorial arrangement (in vitro procedures x food classes. The IVDMD values determined in tubes were closer to those found in the literature and lower (P0.05 in IVDMD of concentrates and silages when incubated together in the same fermentation jar or separated by food classes in separated jars.

Caracterización fenotípica de aislamientos de Acinetobacter baumannii en una institución de salud de alta complejidad de Cali

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Alfredo Prado

2014-04-01

Full Text Available Introducción. La caracterización fenotípica de las bacterias del género Acinetobacter mediante pruebas bioquímicas y microscópicas es posible. Varios estudios han demostrado que los aislamientos provenientes de infecciones asociadas a la atención en salud presentan una elevada resistencia a los antibióticos de primera elección. Objetivo. Describir los patrones de resistencia de los aislamientos de Acinetobacter baumannii obtenidos en una institución de salud, así como sus características fenotípicas y los posibles mecanismos de resistencia. Materiales y métodos. Se realizó un estudio descriptivo de corte transversal con 28 informes de muestras tomadas a pacientes hospitalizados con infección por A. baumannii. Las pruebas de sensibilidad para ceftazidime, cefepime, meropenem, amikacina y ciprofloxacina se realizaron con el sistema automatizado Vitek® y la clasificación de sensible, intermedia y resistente se hizo con base en el protocolo establecido por el Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute para el año 2007. Resultados. El mayor porcentaje de aislamientos correspondió al sexo masculino (53,6 %, a la sala de infectología (28,5 % y al mes de septiembre (21,4 %; el tipo de muestra más frecuente fue el de secreción endotraqueal (53,6 %. A partir de los patrones de los perfiles de sensibilidad a los antibióticos empleados se obtuvieron 13 filotipos. Conclusión. Acinetobacter baumannii es un agente patógeno resistente a múltiples antimicrobianos, involucrado en brotes de infecciones asociadas a la atención en salud. Los patrones de los perfiles de resistencia permiten inferir que los posibles mecanismos de resistencia presentes en la mayoría de los aislamientos son la producción de betalactamasas de espectro extendido, las enzimas modificadoras del antibiótico y la modificación del sitio diana.

La investigación cualitativa y sus aplicaciones en Biblioteconomía y Documentación

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Borrego Huerta, Ángel

1999-06-01

Full Text Available We explore qualitative techniques in order to find out those which can be useful in Library and Information Science research, those topics which are more susceptible to be approached from a qualitative point of view, and whether there is a correlation between the technique employed and the matter discussed. We analyse both the topics and techniques applied in the research articles published in the Journal of the American Society for Information Science between 1995 and 1997, and in those appeared in the Journal of Documentation and Library and Information Science Research from 1993 up to 1997. Most of the articles which employ qualitative metbods deal with user behaviour in information retrieval, that is, exploring his behaviour when employing an automated system or focusing in the tactics different user groups adopt when solving their information needs. Finally, the main characteristics that define qualitative research are summarised.

Se intenta determinar cuáles son las técnicas cualitativas concretas que pueden ser útiles en el desarrollo de investigaciones en Biblioteconomía y Documentación, qué temas son más susceptibles de ser abordados desde una óptica cualitativa, y si existe una correlación entre la técnica empleada y el tema tratado. Se analiza la temática y técnicas empleadas en los artículos de investigación publicados en Journal of the American Society for Information Science entre 1995 y 1997, y en los aparecidos en Journal of Documentation y Library and Information Science Research desde 1993 hasta 1997. La mayor parte de los artículos que emplean técnicas cualitativas estudian el comportamiento del usuario en la recuperación de la información, bien sea explorando su conducta al utilizar un sistema automatizado, o bien centrándose en las tácticas que diversos grupos de usuarios emplean al resolver sus necesidades informativas. Finalmente se exponen las principales características que definen este tipo

Sistema para la Aplicación de Pruebas Psicológicas vía Web

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Cuauhtémoc Hidalgo-Cortés

2012-05-01

Full Text Available In this work, we present a generic Web system for the application, capturing and editing ofany multiple-choice psychological test capable of storing data permanently (in order to makecomparative and longitudinal studies. Also, these data can be imported into other statisticalprograms such as Microsoft Excel, SPSS and Origin. The implementation and administrationof the tests can be done from any Internet-connected computer without installing specializedsoftware. To evaluate the potential of this system, the questionnaire Cuestionario Honey-Alonsode Estilos de Aprendizaje (C. H. A. E. A. was captured and applied to 255 subjects. Theresults showed a significant reduction in time spent calculating the factor, in the same way,the total score for each test also prevented the occurrence of errors made by human interventionin the assessment manual (since this process was automated by the system.En este trabajo se presenta un sistema web para la aplicación, captura y edición de cual­quier prueba psicológica de opción múltiple con capacidad para almacenar datos de forma permanente (dicha información permitirá llevar a cabo estudios comparativos y longitudi­nales. De la misma forma, los datos almacenados pueden ser importados por otros pro­gramas estadísticos, como por ejemplo Microsoft Excel, SPSS y Origin. La aplicación y administración de estas pruebas puede hacerse desde cualquier computadora conectada a la Internet sin necesidad de instalar programas especializados. Para evaluar el potencial de este sistema, se capturó el Cuestionario Honey-Alonso de Estilos de Aprendizaje (C. H. A. E. A. y se aplicó a 255 sujetos. Los resultados obtenidos demuestran una reducción considerable en el tiempo invertido en el cálculo de las subescalas (factor y en la puntuación total de cada prueba, además, se evitó la aparición de errores cometidos por la intervención huma­na en la evaluación manual (debido a que este proceso fue automatizado por

Precisión en la determinación de glucosa, colesterol y trigliceridos séricos, en laboratorios clínicos de Lima, Perú

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Miguel H. Sandoval Vegas

2012-07-01

Full Text Available Objetivos: Evaluar la precisión de laboratorios de análisis clínicos de Lima, en la determinacion de glucosa, colesterol y triglicéridos séricos. Diseño: Descriptivo. Lugar: Centro de Investigación de Bioquímica y Nutrición, Facultad de Medicina, UNMSM, y laboratorios clínicos participantes de Lima. Participantes: Muestras séricas de donantes. Intervenciones: Previo consentimiento informado, se envió muestras séricas ciegas duplicadas a 88 laboratorios clínicos, que constituyeron la muestra; el traslado de los sueros fue en cadena de frio de 4 a 6°C. Los resultados fueron recibidos vía correo electrónico y con ellos se obtuvo la media, desviación estándar (DE, coeficiente de variación (CV y el índice de desviación estándar (SDI; también se valoró la precisión usando la validación de la variabilidad biológica (VB. Principales medidas de resultados: Concentración de glucosa, colesterol y triglicéridos. Resultados: La mayoría (>75% de los resultados de los laboratorios se encontraron dentro del rango aceptable; hubo laboratorios fuera del rango de control, entre 9,1 a 12,5% de ellos. La evaluación del índice de calidad mediante la variabilidad biológica para la mayoría de laboratorios estuvo en control, sea esta óptima, deseable o mínima; 42% de los laboratorios estuvo fuera de control para la prueba del colesterol, 25% fuera de control para la glucosa y 11,4% para triglicéridos. Los laboratorios con equipos automatizados presentaron mejor precisión. Conclusiones: Los laboratorios clínicos en su mayoría tuvieron buena precisión en las mediciones; sin embargo, aún existen laboratorios con amplia imprecisión en sus resultados, por lo que deben hacerse esfuerzos para mejorar estos índices de calidad.

Automatic process control for pipeline: an ally in the quest for excellence in quality; Controle automatizado do processo de revestimento de dutos: um aliado na busca da excelencia em qualidade

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Silva, Christian E.; Santos, Paulo T.; Nunes, Matheus; Sartori, Marcio [Soco Ril do Brasil S.A., Pindamonhangaba, SP (Brazil); Populin, German [Soco-Ril da Argentina S.A. (Argentina); Ferreira, Joaquim C. [Tenaris Confab, Pindamonhangaba, SP (Brazil)

2004-07-01

Process is any specific combination of machines, methods, tools and people which aim to obtain products or services with high quality. Any changing in one of these elements may result in another process. The concern in assuring its control totally owe to the necessity of having quickly answers related to the standards deviation. Herewith, it is possible to get as much uniformity as possible from that quality characteristic. Through a thickness automatic controlled system it may be possible to evaluate in real time the process itself, identifying tendencies of sequential or temporal performance. Therefore it is possible to act instantaneously adjusting the process, complying with client's specification. The present paper describes the applicability of a automatic controlled system and shows the advantages of its using. (author)

Development of an automated informatic system, for the evaluation of damage in plastics and minerals; Desarrollo de un sistema informatico automatizado, para la evaluacion de danos en plasticos y minerales

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Hidalgo V, V.; Lopez G, A.D.; Ledezma F, L.E.; Segovia R, A.; Balcazar, M. [ININ, 52750 La Marquesa, Estado de Mexico (Mexico)

2008-07-01

A computer system of pattern recognition to evaluate automatically the damages registered by positive ions in minerals and plastics was developed. In the case of minerals the apatite in which was achievement to recognize and to count the damages by spontaneous fission of the uranium contained in her was selected. The selected plastic was the CR39, in which was possible to obtain the distribution of the diameters of the you give you taken place by slight ions in this plastic. In both cases, the recognition of patterns you bases on Ision for Computer, using the methodology described by Gonzalez and Woods [6]. The technique consists in: Acquisition of the Image, Pre-prosecution, Segmentation, Description and Classification; the computer system you development making use of the software Matlab version 7. The Apatita you selects for their importance in the one dated geologic and the determination of the thermal history, both of importance in the oil prospecting. In the case of the CR39 their importance resides in its wide and massive use as dosimetro of neutrons, determination of environmental Radon and detection of nuclear reactions of low section. (Author)

Influência da concentração do EDTA, tempo e temperatura de armazenagem sobre parâmetros hematológicos de cães no hemograma automatizado e manual

OpenAIRE

Oliveira, Aécio Carlos de

2009-01-01

O estudo teve como objetivo identificar os efeitos do tempo, da temperatura de armazenamento e do excesso de anticoagulante sobre parâmetros hematológicos de cães. Foram utilizadas amostras do sangue de dez cães de raças variadas, clinicamente hígidos. As alíquotas foram colhidas com 1,8 mg, 3,6 mg, 7,2 mg e 14,4 mg de ácido etilenodiaminotetraacético (EDTA) por mL de sangue, distribuídas em dois grupos: de 2ºC a 8ºC e temperatura ambiente.Após a coleta, foram avaliadas em quatro tempos: 0, 1...

Viability testing of material derived from Mycobacterium tuberculosis prior to removal from a containment level-III laboratory as part of a Laboratory Risk Assessment Program.

Science.gov (United States)

Blackwood, Kym S; Burdz, Tamara V; Turenne, Christine Y; Sharma, Meenu K; Kabani, Amin M; Wolfe, Joyce N

2005-01-24

In the field of clinical mycobacteriology, Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) can be a difficult organism to manipulate due to the restrictive environment of a containment level 3 (CL3) laboratory. Tests for rapid diagnostic work involving smears and molecular methods do not require CL3 practices after the organism has been rendered non-viable. While it has been assumed that after organism deactivation these techniques can be performed outside of a CL3, no conclusive study has consistently confirmed that the organisms are noninfectious after the theoretical 'deactivation' steps. Previous studies have shown that initial steps (such as heating/chemical fixation) may not consistently kill MTB organisms. An inclusive viability study (n = 226) was undertaken to determine at which point handling of culture extraction materials does not necessitate a CL3 environment. Four different laboratory protocols tested for viability included: standard DNA extractions for IS6110 fingerprinting, crude DNA preparations for PCR by boiling and mechanical lysis, protein extractions, and smear preparations. For each protocol, laboratory staff planted a proportion of the resulting material to Bactec 12B medium that was observed for growth for 8 weeks. Of the 208 isolates initially tested, 21 samples grew within the 8-week period. Sixteen (7.7%) of these yielded positive results for MTB that included samples of: deactivated culture resuspensions exposed to 80 degrees C for 20 minutes, smear preparations and protein extractions. Test procedures were consequently modified and tested again (n = 18), resulting in 0% viability. This study demonstrates that it cannot be assumed that conventional practices (i.e. smear preparation) or extraction techniques render the organism non-viable. All methodologies, new and existing, should be examined by individual laboratories to validate the safe removal of material derived from MTB to the outside of a CL3 laboratory. This process is vital to establish in

MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry for the rapid identification of aetiological agents of sepsis

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Roberto Degl’Innocenti

2013-04-01

Full Text Available Introduction: The MALDI-TOF has recently become part of the methods of microbiological investigation in many laboratories of bacteriology with advantages both practical and economical.The use of this technique for the rapid identification of the causative agents of sepsis is of strategic importance to the ability to provide the clinician with useful information for a prompt and rapid establishment of an empirical antimicrobial “targeted” therapy. Methods: It was tested a total of 343 positive blood culture bottles from 211 patients. The samples after collection were incubated in the BACTEC FX (Becton Dickinson, USA. From these bottles were taken a few milliliters of broth culture and transferred into a vacutainer tube containing gel. This was centrifuged, the supernatant was decanted, and finally recovered the bacterial suspension on the gel. With micro-organisms recovered in this way, after several washes with distilled water, was prepared a slide for microscopic examination with Gram stain, and a plate for mass spectrometry (MS-Vitek, bioMérieux, France.Then, the same samples were inoculated on solid agar media according to the protocol in use in our laboratory.The next day was checked the possible bacterial growth on solid media; we then proceeded to the identification of the colonies by Vitek MS and / or with the system Vitek2 (bioMérieux, France. Results: 258 (75.2% positive vials show concordant results between direct identification and identification after growth on agar. For 83 (24.2% positive bottles there has been full compliance with the microscopic examination but not with culture. In particular, two bottles (0.6% have given complete discordance between the direct identification and that after growth. Conclusions: The protocol we use for the direct identification of organisms responsible for sepsis, directly on positive bottles, seems to be a quick and inexpensive procedure, which in less than 60 minutes can give valuable

Pattern Of Polymicrobial Isolates And Antimicrobial Susceptibility From Blood

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Shabbir, S.; Jamil, S.; Hafiz, S.

2016-01-01

Objective: To determine the pattern of polymicrobial isolates in blood cultures and antimicrobial susceptibility in a tertiary care hospital of Karachi. Study Design: Cross-sectional study. Place and Duration of Study: Sindh Institute of Urology and Transplantation (SIUT), Karachi, Pakistan, from September to November 2014. Methodology: Blood culture samples were received from patients, which were processed by BACTEC 9240 system (Becton Dickinson). All positive blood samples were further analyzed. Susceptibility to antimicrobial agents was determined according to the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) criteria of the year. Identification of growth was based on Gram staining, colony morphology and appropriate biochemical tests. Antibiotic susceptibility was done as per Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) recommendations. Results: Out of the 7251 samples submitted, 2931 (40.42 percent) were positive for growth, 2389 (81.5 percent) samples were monomicrobial, whereas 542 (18.5 percent) samples were polymicrobial. Among the polymicrobial isolates, 468 (86.34 percent) blood culture samples yielded two, 66 (12.17 percent) yielded three, and 8 (1.47 percent) yielded four organisms. Gram positive isolates were 281 (51.84 percent) and Gram negative were 261 (48.15 percent). The most frequent isolates in polymicrobial blood stream infection were Acinetobacterspp. (51/542, 9.4 percent) and Coagulase negative Staphylococcus(84/542, 15.5 percent), respectively. Staphylococcus aureus isolates, which were resistant to Methicillin, accounted for 24.65 percent. Third generation Cephalosporins resistance in Klebsiella spp. and Eschericia (E.) coli was found to be 63.6 percent and 58 percent, respectively. Carbapenem resistance was seen in 5.9 percent of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and 17.6 percent Acinetobacter spp. Conclusion: Gram positive bacteria were more commonly involved in polymicrobial blood stream infections with Coagulase negative Staphylococcus

Viability testing of material derived from Mycobacterium tuberculosis prior to removal from a Containment Level-III Laboratory as part of a Laboratory Risk Assessment Program

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Kabani Amin M

2005-01-01

Full Text Available Abstract Background In the field of clinical mycobacteriology, Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB can be a difficult organism to manipulate due to the restrictive environment of a containment level 3 (CL3 laboratory. Tests for rapid diagnostic work involving smears and molecular methods do not require CL3 practices after the organism has been rendered non-viable. While it has been assumed that after organism deactivation these techniques can be performed outside of a CL3, no conclusive study has consistently confirmed that the organisms are noninfectious after the theoretical 'deactivation' steps. Previous studies have shown that initial steps (such as heating /chemical fixation may not consistently kill MTB organisms. Methods An inclusive viability study (n = 226 was undertaken to determine at which point handling of culture extraction materials does not necessitate a CL3 environment. Four different laboratory protocols tested for viability included: standard DNA extractions for IS6110 fingerprinting, crude DNA preparations for PCR by boiling and mechanical lysis, protein extractions, and smear preparations. For each protocol, laboratory staff planted a proportion of the resulting material to Bactec 12B medium that was observed for growth for 8 weeks. Results Of the 208 isolates initially tested, 21 samples grew within the 8-week period. Sixteen (7.7% of these yielded positive results for MTB that included samples of: deactivated culture resuspensions exposed to 80°C for 20 minutes, smear preparations and protein extractions. Test procedures were consequently modified and tested again (n = 18, resulting in 0% viability. Conclusions This study demonstrates that it cannot be assumed that conventional practices (i.e. smear preparation or extraction techniques render the organism non-viable. All methodologies, new and existing, should be examined by individual laboratories to validate the safe removal of material derived from MTB to the outside of a

Alarming levels of drug-resistant tuberculosis in HIV-infected patients in metropolitan Mumbai, India.

Science.gov (United States)

Isaakidis, Petros; Das, Mrinalini; Kumar, Ajay M V; Peskett, Christopher; Khetarpal, Minni; Bamne, Arun; Adsul, Balkrishna; Manglani, Mamta; Sachdeva, Kuldeep Singh; Parmar, Malik; Kanchar, Avinash; Rewari, B B; Deshpande, Alaka; Rodrigues, Camilla; Shetty, Anjali; Rebello, Lorraine; Saranchuk, Peter

2014-01-01

Drug-resistant tuberculosis (DR-TB) is a looming threat to tuberculosis control in India. However, no countrywide prevalence data are available. The burden of DR-TB in HIV-co-infected patients is likewise unknown. Undiagnosed and untreated DR-TB among HIV-infected patients is a major cause of mortality and morbidity. We aimed to assess the prevalence of DR-TB (defined as resistance to any anti-TB drug) in patients attending public antiretroviral treatment (ART) centers in greater metropolitan Mumbai, India. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among adults and children ART-center attendees. Smear microscopy, culture and drug-susceptibility-testing (DST) against all first and second-line TB-drugs using phenotypic liquid culture (MGIT) were conducted on all presumptive tuberculosis patients. Analyses were performed to determine DR-TB prevalence and resistance patterns separately for new and previously treated, culture-positive TB-cases. Between March 2013 and January 2014, ART-center attendees were screened during 14135 visits, of whom 1724 had presumptive TB. Of 1724 attendees, 72 (4%) were smear-positive and 202 (12%) had a positive culture for Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Overall DR-TB was diagnosed in 68 (34%, 95% CI: 27%-40%) TB-patients. The proportions of DR-TB were 25% (29/114) and 44% (39/88) among new and previously treated cases respectively. The patterns of DR-TB were: 21% mono-resistant, 12% poly-resistant, 38% multidrug-resistant (MDR-TB), 21% pre-extensively-drug-resistant (MDR-TB plus resistance to either a fluoroquinolone or second-line injectable), 6% extensively drug-resistant (XDR-TB) and 2% extremely drug-resistant TB (XDR-TB plus resistance to any group-IV/V drug). Only previous history of TB was significantly associated with the diagnosis of DR-TB in multivariate models. The burden of DR-TB among HIV-infected patients attending public ART-centers in Mumbai was alarmingly high, likely representing ongoing transmission in the community and

Alarming levels of drug-resistant tuberculosis in HIV-infected patients in metropolitan Mumbai, India.

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Petros Isaakidis

Full Text Available BACKGROUND: Drug-resistant tuberculosis (DR-TB is a looming threat to tuberculosis control in India. However, no countrywide prevalence data are available. The burden of DR-TB in HIV-co-infected patients is likewise unknown. Undiagnosed and untreated DR-TB among HIV-infected patients is a major cause of mortality and morbidity. We aimed to assess the prevalence of DR-TB (defined as resistance to any anti-TB drug in patients attending public antiretroviral treatment (ART centers in greater metropolitan Mumbai, India. METHODS: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among adults and children ART-center attendees. Smear microscopy, culture and drug-susceptibility-testing (DST against all first and second-line TB-drugs using phenotypic liquid culture (MGIT were conducted on all presumptive tuberculosis patients. Analyses were performed to determine DR-TB prevalence and resistance patterns separately for new and previously treated, culture-positive TB-cases. RESULTS: Between March 2013 and January 2014, ART-center attendees were screened during 14135 visits, of whom 1724 had presumptive TB. Of 1724 attendees, 72 (4% were smear-positive and 202 (12% had a positive culture for Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Overall DR-TB was diagnosed in 68 (34%, 95% CI: 27%-40% TB-patients. The proportions of DR-TB were 25% (29/114 and 44% (39/88 among new and previously treated cases respectively. The patterns of DR-TB were: 21% mono-resistant, 12% poly-resistant, 38% multidrug-resistant (MDR-TB, 21% pre-extensively-drug-resistant (MDR-TB plus resistance to either a fluoroquinolone or second-line injectable, 6% extensively drug-resistant (XDR-TB and 2% extremely drug-resistant TB (XDR-TB plus resistance to any group-IV/V drug. Only previous history of TB was significantly associated with the diagnosis of DR-TB in multivariate models. CONCLUSION: The burden of DR-TB among HIV-infected patients attending public ART-centers in Mumbai was alarmingly high, likely representing

[Investigation of the presence of Mycobacterium tuberculosis in the lymph node aspirates of the suspected tularemia lymphadenitis cases].

Science.gov (United States)

Albayrak, Nurhan; Celebi, Bekir; Kavas, Semra; Simşek, Hülya; Kılıç, Selçuk; Sezen, Figen; Arslantürk, Ahmet

2014-01-01

Recently reports of cervical tuberculous lymphadenitis and oropharyngeal tularemia which are the most common infectious causes of granulomatous lymphadenitis, have been significantly increased in Turkey. The differentiation of cervical tuberculous lymphadenitis and oropharyngeal tularemia is usually confusing on the basis of clinical and histopathological findings. Thus, in tularemia endemic areas, the patients are more commonly evaluated in terms of tularemia lymphadenitis leaving tuberculosis out. The aim of this study was to investigate the presence of Mycobacterium tuberculosis in cervical lymph node aspirates, obtained from tularemia suspected cases. A total of 105 oropharyngeal tularemia-suspected cases which were found negative for Francisella tularensis by bacteriological (culture), molecular (PCR) and serological (microagglutination) methods, were included in the study. The samples had been previously studied at National Tularemia Reference Laboratory, Turkish Public Health Institution, between 2009-2011. The study samples were evaluated in terms of M.tuberculosis by culture and real-time PCR (rtPCR) methods in the National Tuberculosis Reference Laboratory. Both Lowenstein-Jensen (LJ) medium and liquid-based MGIT (BD, USA) automated culture system were used for mycobacterial culture. Samples that yielded mycobacterial growth were identified as M.tuberculosis by immunochromotographic test (BD, USA). The lymph node aspirates of 65 patients who were F.tularensis PCR negative but antibody positive, were used as the control group. As a result, M.tuberculosis was found to be positive in 9 (8.6%) of 105 tularemia-negative lymph node aspirates, sent to our laboratory from different geographic regions for the investigation of tularemia. Six of the M.tuberculosis positive cases were male and the age range of the patients was 26-85 years. The presence of M.tuberculosis was detected only by culture in two samples, only by rtPCR in five samples and both by culture and

Sensibilidad antimicrobiana in vitro en aislamientos de Enterococcus faecalis y Enterococcus faecium obtenidos de pacientes hospitalizados

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Manuel Medell

2014-04-01

Full Text Available Introducción. Actualmente se considera a Enterococcus spp. como uno de los agentes de infección hospitalaria más importantes, siendo su resistencia a los antibióticos un problema importante en los centros de salud. Objetivos. Caracterizar la resistencia antimicrobiana en 50 cepas de Enterococcus spp. aisladas de muestras clínicas de pacientes hospitalizados. Materiales y métodos. Se llevó a cabo un estudio de tipo descriptivo observacional de corte transversal en 50 aislamientos clínicos de estas especies microbianas. Se trabajó un aislamiento por paciente. La identificación y la sensibilidad a los antibióticos se realizaron por métodos automatizados y convencionales. El análisis fenotípico de los mecanismos de resistencia a glucopéptidos se hizo según las recomendaciones de la Sociedad Española de Enfermedades Infecciosas y Microbiología Clínica. Resultados. De 50 aislamientos, 30 (60,0 % y 20 (40,0 % pertenecían a las especies de Enterococcus faecalis y Enterococcus faecium, respectivamente. La resistencia global expresada por este género fue de 38/50 (76,0 % para ampicilina; 33/50 (66,0 % para gentamicina de alto nivel; 34/50 (68,0 % para estreptomicina de alto nivel; 26/50 (52,0 % para ciprofloxacina; 4/50 (8,0 % para linezolid; 17/50 (34,0 % para teicoplanina; 25/50 (50,0 % para vancomicina; 31/50 (62,0 % para minociclina; 34/50 (68,0 % para tetraciclina y 9/50 (18,0 % para nitrofurantoina. Frente a los glucopéptidos, 25/50 (50,0 % y 10/50 (20,0 % de los aislamientos presentaron los mecanismos Van A y Van B, respectivamente. Conclusiones. Podemos concluir que la mayoría de las veces, las cepas aisladas en el Hospital Hermanos Ameijeiras mostraron porcentajes de resistencia por encima de lo reportado en la literatura científica consultada. El alto porcentaje de cepas con resistencia a la vancomicina podría influir en la aparición de otros gérmenes Gram positivos con resistencia a este fármaco. Se reporta por

Orientation of a 3D object: implementation with an artificial neural network using a programmable logic device;Orientacion de un objeto 3D : implementacion de redes neuronales artificiales utilizando logica programable

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Carnevale, Federico J [Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, Instituto Balseiro, Centro Atomico Bariloche (Argentina)

2010-07-01

Complex information extraction from images is a key skill of intelligent machines, with wide application in automated systems, robotic manipulation and human-computer interaction. However, solving this problem with traditional, geometric or analytical, strategies is extremely difficult. Therefore, an approach based on learning from examples seems to be more appropriate. This thesis addresses the problem of 3D orientation, aiming to estimate the angular coordinates of a known object from an image shot from any direction. We describe a system based on artificial neural networks to solve this problem in real time. The implementation is performed using a programmable logic device. The digital system described in this paper has the ability to estimate two rotational coordinates of a 3D known object, in ranges from -80{sup 0} to 80{sup 0}. The operation speed allows a real time performance at video rate. The system accuracy can be successively increased by increasing the size of the artificial neural network and using a larger number of training examples;La extraccion de informacion compleja a partir de imagenes es una habilidad clave en las maquinas inteligentes con vasta aplicacion en los sistemas automatizados, la manipulacion robotica y la interaccion humano-computadora. Sin embargo, resulta una tarea extremadamente dificil de resolver con estrategias clasicas, geometricas o analiticas. Por lo tanto, un enfoque basado en aprendizaje a partir de ejemplos parece mas adecuado. Esta tesis trata acerca del problema de orientacion 3D, cuyo objetivo consiste en estimar las coordenadas angulares de un objeto conocido, a partir de una imagen tomada desde cualquier direccion. Se describe un sistema, basado en redes neuronales artificiales, para resolver este problema en tiempo real. La implementacion, capaz de funcionar a frecuencia de video, se realiza utilizando un dispositivo de logica programable. El sistema digital final demuestra la capacidad de estimar dos coordenadas

Serum biochemical profile of laying hens in the region of Araçatuba, SPPerfil bioquímico das galinhas poedeiras na região de Araçatuba-SP.

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Paulo César Ciarlini

2011-10-01

Full Text Available The establishment of reference values is extremely important for successful diagnosis and treatament. Considering that in most species the serum chemistry profile is influenced by race, climate and management, we decided to determine the values of aspartate aminotransferase (AST, alanine aminotransferase (ALT, uric acid, creatinine, creatine kinase (CK, phosphatase alkaline (ALP, gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT, total protein (TP and albumin of Dekalb hens in the region of Araçatuba - SP. All samples were processed soon after harvesting in an automatic biochemical analyzer calibrated and monitored with control serum levels I and II. The following confidence intervals were obtained: 44-65,5 U / L (AST; 18,4-21,2 U / L (ALT, 2.1-2.5 mg / dL (uric acid; 1.7 to 5.7 U / L (CK; CI 1.2-2.2 mg / dL (creatinine, 1276-1506 U / L (FA; 18-23,4 U / L (GGT; 27.12 to 29 g / L (PT, from 11.4 to 12.16 g / L (albumin.O estabelecimento de valores bioquímicos de referência é de extrema importância para o sucesso do diagnóstico e do tratamento. Considerando que na maioria das espécies o perfil bioquímico sérico sofre influência de raça, clima e manejo, decidiu-se determinar os valores de aspartato aminotransferase (AST, alanina aminotransferase (ALT, ácido úrico, creatinina, creatina quinase (CK, fostatase alcalina (FA, gama-glutamiltransferase (GGT, proteína total (PT e albumina de galinhas poedeiras da linhagem Dekalb da região de Araçatuba – SP. Todas as amostras foram processadas logo após a colheita em um analisador bioquímico automatizado previamente calibrado e monitorado com soros controles nível I e II. Obtiveram-se os seguintes intervalos de confiança: 44-65,5 U/L (AST; 18,4-21,2 U/L (ALT; 2,1–2,5 mg/dL (ácido úrico ; 1,7– 5,7 U/L (CK ; 1,2–2,2 mg/dL (creatinina; 1276–1506 U/L (FA; 18-23,4 U/L (GGT; 27,12– 29 g/L (PT; 11,4 – 12,16 g/L (albumina.

Software de balanced scorecard: proposta de um roteiro de implantação Balanced scorecard software: proposal of a guideline implementation

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Oswaldo Keiji Hikage

2006-04-01

Full Text Available Em 1992, o conceito de Balanced Scorecard (BSC foi apresentado por Robert Kaplan e David Norton e em razão de sua disseminação muitas empresas que o adotaram e passaram por processos de fusões e aquisições tiveram suas informações aumentadas consideravelmente em seus bancos de dados. Esta série de informações e a necessidade de gerenciar com eficiência os indicadores estratégicos, de disponibilizar rapidamente relatórios gerenciais, analisar e simular cenários levaram as empresas a buscar um sistema automatizado. Dessa forma, algumas preocupações passaram a ter importância: como selecionar um software de BSC? Como implantar um software de BSC? Além das dificuldades inerentes à aquisição de qualquer software, a situação especificamente tratada neste artigo apresenta algumas peculiaridades, diante da intensa interação entre a sistemática do BSC e os softwares que o suportam. Este artigo, por meio de um estudo de caso realizado em uma empresa do setor de telecomunicações, enfoca a implantação de um software de BSC, visando ao desenvolvimento de um roteiro que possa sistematizar o processo.Since 1992, when Robert Kaplan and David Norton developed the concepts of Balanced Scorecard (BSC, many companies that adopted these concepts and survived in a higher competitive environment charicterized of high number of mergers, purchases and shutdowns increased the volume of information in their database. So, in consequence of the adoption of BSC, there is the needed for implementing a computerized control system, due to the work with the BSC and the management of a great volume of information. In this context, when the companies decide to implement a BSC software, they faced two problems: how to choose the BSC software? How to implement the selected software? This study proposes to develop a guideline for the BSC software introduction based on a case study in a telecommunication company and the experience from the practice on

Relação da amplitude de distribuição do diâmetro dos eritrócitos (RDW com valores do eritrograma em gatos anêmicos e não anêmicos

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Paulo Henrique da Silva

2015-10-01

Full Text Available As alterações eritrocitárias demandam decisões e norteiam a conduta do clínico quanto ao prognóstico e a terapêutica de eventuais doenças. A utilização de equipamentos automatizados que fazem a contagem celular sanguínea permite o cálculo da amplitude de distribuição dos eritrócitos (RDW- red blood cell distribution width e suas frações (RDW-CV e RDW-SD, para avaliar de forma quantitativa a heterogenicidade de cada eritrócito, em especial para a espécie felina, uma vez que é comum nestes animais a presença de anisocitose mesmo em condições normais. Ao contrário da medicina humana, em que ocorreu uma grande aceitação do RDW, na medicina veterinária ainda são poucos veterinários e laboratórios que utilizam esse parâmetro como ferramenta diagnóstica para diagnóstico diferencial laboratorial das anemias, o que pode ser devido ao desconhecimento de sua aplicação. Diante da escassa informação disponível na literatura científica sobre os valores de RDW para o gato doméstico, este estudo propôs associar os valores obtidos de RDW com os eritrócitos, hematócrito, hemoglobina e volume corpuscular médio (VCM, de 407 gatos (n=218 machos, n=189 fêmeas, sendo 335 não anêmicos e 72 anêmicos, adultos, sem raça definida. No presente estudo, os valores de RDW-SD dos gatos anêmicos aumentaram 20,4% em relação aos considerados normais, enquanto o RDWCV apresentou valores 25,2% superiores aos considerados normais para a espécie. Conclui-se que, a interpretação dos valores de RDW é uma ferramenta importante para avaliação da heterogenicidade das hemácias frente à anemia. Mesmo em animais não anêmicos, os valores aumentados de RDW podem sugerir uma alteração eritrocitária precoce.

DESENVOLVIMENTO, AUTOMAÇÃO E DESEMPENHO DE UM CONSOLIDÔMETRO COM INTERFACE HOMEM-MÁQUINA

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Reginaldo Barboza da Silva

2015-04-01

Full Text Available O ensaio de consolidação preconiza a utilização de um consolidômetro. Esse equipamento, até então, não era produzido e comercializado no Brasil. Os modelos não automatizados disponíveis para importação, apesar da proposta de baixo custo, ainda são rústicos e necessitam de contínua calibração dos níveis de pressão durante a realização do ensaio. A exclusividade e intervenção de um técnico durante todo o ensaio, associada à precária coleta de dados nesses modelos, ainda são os principais fatores que têm inviabilizado a consolidação desse ensaio na ciência do solo brasileira. Como alternativa a esses problemas, este trabalho teve por objetivos desenvolver e automatizar um consolidômetro a partir de um Controlador Lógico Programável (CLP com interface homem-máquina (IHM. O equipamento é constituído de um gabinete de metal que aloja conjuntos de dispositivos pneumáticos, eletrônico-digital e atuadores de força e posição. O funcionamento de cada dispositivo de forma isolado ou conjugado é gerenciado por meio de um software em linguagem de programação ladder, que, a partir de um CLP com IHM incorporada, possibilita armazenar instruções e implementar funções. A interface entre o PC e o consolidômetro é feita pelo software CA-Linker, v 1.0, projetado especificamente para o equipamento. O uso do CLP com IHM incorporada permitiu o desenvolvimento e a automação do consolidômetro. O desempenho e a eficiência do conjunto de dispositivos (pneumáticos, eletrônico-digital e atuadores de força e pressão foram comprovados pelos excelentes resultados dos valores de deformação e pressão obtidos em função do tempo e, principalmente, do comportamento da curva de compressão, gerada pelos ensaios de compressão.

Estilo arquitectónico para el sistema integrado de gestión Cedrux (Architectonical style for the management integrated system CEDRUX

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Yusnier Matos Arias

2013-06-01

Full Text Available Resumen Cedrux es un sistema integrado de gestión que se desarrolla en la Universidad de las Ciencias Informáticas (La Habana. Este sistema posee tres características que los identifican: es un sistema integral, modular y adaptable. Durante su desarrollo se ha determinado la necesidad de diagnosticar dichas características a partir de análisis automatizados sobre su arquitectura en diferentes fases de su construcción. Para automatizar los análisis arquitectónicos es necesario antes: definir el estilo arquitectónico, formalizarlo de manera que pueda ser interpretado por un sistema informático, definir las métricas correspondientes e implementar una herramienta que permita aplicarlas. Este trabajo muestra la definición del estilo arquitectónico de Cedrux como primer paso en el desarrollo de la herramienta para el análisis arquitectónico del mismo. Se basa en la definición del vocabulario arquitectónico y las restricciones estructurales, sintácticas y semánticas de los elementos que conforman la arquitectura. Finalmente se exponen las ideas del trabajo futuro a partir de los resultados mostrados. Abstract Cedrux is an integrated management system that is developed at the University of Computer Sciences (La Habana. This system has three identifying characteristics: it is integral, modular and adaptable. During its development, the need to diagnose these features has arisen from the automated analysis of their architecture at different stages of its construction. In order to automate the architectural analysis it is first necessary to a define the architectural style, b formalize it so that it can be interpreted by a computer system, c define relevant metrics and d implement a tool to apply them. This paper provides a definition of Cedrux architectural style as the first step in the development of that analytical tool. This is based on the definition of architectural vocabulary, together with structural, syntactic and semantic

Programa de ajuste multiparamétrico de curvas de titulação potenciométricas de ácidos húmicos Multiparametric adjustment program of potentiometric titration curves of humic acids

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Clausius Duque Gonçalves Reis

2010-04-01

Full Text Available Tendo em vista a dificuldade de determinação dos pontos de inflexão na curva de titulação potenciométrica de ácidos húmicos, por metodologias tradicionais, foi desenvolvido foi desenvolvido um programa na linguagem Delphi para ajuste multiparamétrico de dados de titulação potenciométrica. Para isso um processo iterativo para estimar as raízes de um polinômio, com base no método de Newton-Raphson, foi utilizado. Os dados das titulações potenciométricas de ácidos húmicos usados nas regressões foram obtidos em um sistema automatizado de titulação potenciométrica. O programa desenvolvido na linguagem Delphi permite maior versatilidade e facilidade de operação, com uma interação mais amigável com o usuário. As curvas de titulação potenciométricas ajustadas sobrepuseram-se quase que totalmente às curvas experimentais. Os valores de pKa e as percentagens de grupos tituláveis dos ácidos húmicos, parâmetros ajustáveis na regressão multiparamétrica, apresentaram valores comparáveis com dados da literatura.Regarding the difficulty of determining the inflection points in the potentiometric titration curve of humic acids by means of traditional methodologies, a Delphi program a Delphi program was developed for the multiparametric data adjustment in potentiometric titration. For this purpose, an iterative process was used, based on the Newton-Raphson method to estimate the roots of a polynomial. The humic acid potentiometric titration data, used in regressions, were obtained in an automated system of potentiometric titration. The program developed in Delphi language features greater versatility, ease of operation and better interaction with the user. The adjusted potentiometric titration curves overlap the experimental curves almost entirely. The pKa values and percentages of titrable groups of humic acids extracted from soil, adjustable parameters in the multiparametric regression, were comparable with those reported

Enfermedades micobacterianas diseminadas en pacientes con VIH/SIDA. Evaluación de los hemocultivos por método rápido Disseminated mycobacterial infections in patients with HIV/AIDS. Evaluation of blood cultures

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C. Coitinho

2005-12-01

Full Text Available Mil cuarenta hemocultivos correspondientes a 451 enfermos uruguayos con SIDA y diagnóstico clínico de micobacteriosis diseminada fueron evaluados entre 1999 y 2003. Las muestras fueron procesadas en el Centro de Referencia Nacional para Micobacterias (Montevideo, Uruguay, utilizando el sistema de hemocultivos automatizado para micobacterias MB - BacT (BioMérieux. Se detectaron 45 muestras positivas (4,3% correspondientes a 26 enfermos (promedio 2,3 muestras por paciente. En 10/26 casos se identificó M. avium complex (MAC y en 13/26 el germen aislado fue M. tuberculosis. El tiempo medio de incubación fue de 12,4 días (intervalo 6-19 días para MAC y de 22,6 días (intervalo 7-35 días para M. tuberculosis. El hemocultivo ha demostrado ser la mejor muestra para la confirmación bacteriológica de las enfermedades micobacterianas diseminadas cuando se estudian por lo menos 2 muestras por paciente. La frecuencia de aislamientos de M. tuberculosis y MAC aislados en pacientes con SIDA en Uruguay, corresponde a la de un país con una moderada prevalencia de tuberculosis.One thousand-forty blood cultures corresponding to 451 Uruguayan patients with AIDS and clinic diagnosis of disseminated mycobacterial infection were evaluated between 1999 and 2003. Samples were processed in the NationalReferenceCenter for Mycobacteria (Montevideo, Uruguay, using the automated blood culture system for mycobacteria MB -BacT (BioMérieux. Forty-five positive samples were detected (4.3% corresponding to 26 patients with AIDS (average 2.3 samples per patient. In 10/26 patients M. avium complex (MAC was identified and in 13/26 the isolated germ was M. tuberculosis. The average time of incubation was of 12.4 days (range 6-19 days for MAC and of 22.6 days (range 7-35 days for M. tuberculosis. Blood culture has demonstrated to be the best sample for the bacteriological confirmation of the disseminated mycobacterial infections when at least 2 samples by patient are

La automatización en el sector terciario: evolución del service encounter [doi: 10.5329/RECADM.20121101004

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Eva Diz-Comesaña

2012-05-01

Full Text Available RESUMEN Tradicionalmente, la mayoría de los servicios han sido el resultado de procesos que se realizan en su mayor parte, sino en su totalidad, en contacto directo entre el cliente y los representantes de la empresa prestataria del servicio, en un contexto organizativo determinado. No obstante, en la actualidad muchos investigadores han reconocido la importancia de la tecnología en la prestación del servicio. Desde esta perspectiva, en este trabajo se analizan los distintos elementos que intervienen en el service encounter y su evolución ante la incorporación de procesos automatizados. Para ello, se ha realizado un análisis empírico sobre cuatro subsectores- autopistas, aparcamientos, lavado de automóviles y alquiler de películas cinematográficas- donde se pone de manifiesto cierta evolución en los elementos que participan en la prestación del servicio y en las relaciones que éstos mantienen entre sí, y se deja intuir que la implantación de tales procesos podría permitir alcanzar cotas aceptables de productividad y flexibilidad, variables tradicionalmente antagónicas.   Palabras clave Servicios, Service Encounter, Automatización.     ABSTRACT Traditionally, the majority of the services have been the result of process mainly made in direct contact between customers and employees of the firm that is making the service. However, many researchers have recognized nowadays the importance of technology in the service delivery. Since this perspective, this work analyses the different elements of the service encounter and its evolution in front of incorporation of automated process. For this, we have realized an empirical study on four industries, namely, toll motorways, car parks, carwash and video/DVD rental companies. This study gave us the opportunity to see certain evolution in the elements that take part in the service encounter and in the relationships that these have between themselves. Would seem to indicate that the

Factores incidentes en los resultados de la automatización bibliotecaria: una indagación sobre experiencias de países en desarrollo = Factors affecting the results of library automation: an inquiry into experiences in the developing countries

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Elsa Barber

2000-12-01

Full Text Available La implementación de un sistema automatizado en unidades de información pertenecientes a países involucrados en un proceso de reconversión bibliotecaria se lleva a cabo bajo la influencia de diferentes factores. Estos se definen como externos o contextuales cuando se refieren a las condiciones del entorno en el cual se inserta la institución bibliotecaria y como internos o bibliotecológicos cuando se relacionan con la estructura y el funcionamiento intrínseco de la organización. El presente trabajo se propone realizar un estudio cualitativo sobre la base de dicha categorización, a partir de casos concretos relevados en la literatura bibliotecológica, con el objetivo de describir y evaluar los niveles de incidencia de los citados factores en la informatización de las unidades. En conclusión, el análisis efectuado pone de manifiesto la preeminencia de los factores internos (técnico-bibliotecológicos y de gestión y política bibliotecaria sobre aquellos identificados como externos; como así también, revela que las instancias asociadas con la planificación del proyecto y la formación de recursos humanos surgen como indicadores de mayor peso en la etapa de evaluación de resultados = The implementation of an automated system in information units in countries involved in a process of library conversion, is usually carried out under the influence of different factors. These are defined as external or contextual, when they refer to the library environment conditions and as internal when they relate to the library structure and intrinsic functioning. This work intends to carry out a qualitative research on the basis of the categories mentioned above, from specific cases selected from the library literature. Its aim is to describe and assess the incidence levels of these factors in the automation of information units. In conclusion, the present analysis reveals the preminence of internal factors (technical and of library management and

Análise espacial das condições térmicas do ambiente pré-ordenha de bovinos leiteiros sob regimes de climatização Spatial analysis of thermal conditions of the pre-milking dairy cattle under climatization regimes

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Irenilson M. da Silva

2012-08-01

Full Text Available Propõe-se, com este trabalho, caracterizar a variabilidade espacial da temperatura do ar na sala de pré-ordenha a partir de diferentes tempos de operação do sistema de resfriamento adiabático evaporativo automatizado. A variável temperatura do ar foi registrada em 35 pontos equidistantes 1 m, na forma de malha, para o estudo da variabilidade espacial e a construção de mapas por krigagem. Foram considerados diferentes tempos de exposição dos animais a climatização no curral de espera, 20, 30, 40 min e controle (0 min. Por meio dos resultados obtidos foi possível verificar que o uso da geoestatística possibilitou definir áreas com diferentes variabilidades espaciais para temperatura do ar, definindo áreas específicas na sala de pré-ordenha que apresentaram valores acima do recomendado para o conforto térmico animal. O sistema de climatização garantiu melhor acondicionamento térmico no tempo de exposição de 40 min, obtendo temperatura média dentro da condição de conforto térmico para vacas em lactação.The objective of this study was to characterize the spatial variability of air temperature in pre-milking room for different operation times of the automated adiabatic evaporative cooling system. The air temperature was monitored at 35 points, in regular intervals of 1 m, as a grid, to study the spatial variability and construction of kriging maps. Different times of exposure of the animals to the cooling system in the waiting room (20, 30, 40 min and control - 0 min were considered. Through the results, it was observed that use of geostatistics enabled to define areas with different spatial variability for temperature, identifying specific areas in the pre-milking room that showed values above the recommended levels for the thermal comfort. The cooling system ensured the better thermal condition with the 40 min exposure, obtaining on average temperature within the thermal comfort condition for lactating cows.

INTRODUCCIÓN DE ESTRUCTURA ORGANIZATIVA CON ENFOQUE LOGÍSTICO EN LA SOCIEDAD MERIDIANO DE LA CORPORACIÓN CUBALSE

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Norma Esther Antelo Pérez

2001-09-01

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El proyecto de sistema logístico en desarrollo para la Sociedad Meridiano de Cubalse se soporta, en buena medida, en una organización empresarial que difiere de su antecesora en cuanto al papel protagónico asignado a una nueva dirección funcional que no existía: la de Logística, encargada de regular los flujos de mercancías desde sus orígenes (proveedores hasta el destino final (clientes, interactuando sistémicamente con las otras tres direcciones de la línea operativa de la Sociedad, que son las de compras, ventas e investigación de mercado. Los sistemas automatizados que permiten implantar el nuevo esquema de trabajo de esta organización, se encuentran en fase de puesta a punto, implementación y consolidación aunque de hecho ya están siendo usados como herramientas de trabajo del Grupo de Planificación para llevar a la Dirección de Compras las sugerencias de compras que garanticen el flujo ininterrumpido de mercancías al ritmo que demandan las ventas y en general el movimiento de estas en todo el sistema.

Abstract

The project of the logistic system still in progress for Cubalse Meridiano Enterprise, is scaffolded to some extent, on a business organization which differs from the form one in the main roll assigned to a new functional management that did not exist before; that of the logistic one, uncharged of regulating merchandise flow coming from the suppliers until they get to their destiny (customers they are constantly interacting with the other three directions of the operative line of the enterprise, those of purchasing, selling and marketing research. The automatic systems which allow us the implementation of the new working conception of this organization are in the stage of starting point, implementation and consolidation, though they are blind used as working tools in the planning group in order to suggest the purchasing orders to the Purchasing Managers that guarantee the