Simultaneous chromatic and luminance human electroretinogram responses.

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Parry, Neil R A; Murray, Ian J; Panorgias, Athanasios; McKeefry, Declan J; Lee, Barry B; Kremers, Jan

2012-07-01

The parallel processing of information forms an important organisational principle of the primate visual system. Here we describe experiments which use a novel chromatic–achromatic temporal compound stimulus to simultaneously identify colour and luminance specific signals in the human electroretinogram (ERG). Luminance and chromatic components are separated in the stimulus; the luminance modulation has twice the temporal frequency of the chromatic modulation. ERGs were recorded from four trichromatic and two dichromatic subjects (1 deuteranope and 1 protanope). At isoluminance, the fundamental (first harmonic) response was elicited by the chromatic component in the stimulus. The trichromatic ERGs possessed low-pass temporal tuning characteristics, reflecting the activity of parvocellular post-receptoral mechanisms. There was very little first harmonic response in the dichromats' ERGs. The second harmonic response was elicited by the luminance modulation in the compound stimulus and showed, in all subjects, band-pass temporal tuning characteristic of magnocellular activity. Thus it is possible to concurrently elicit ERG responses from the human retina which reflect processing in both chromatic and luminance pathways. As well as providing a clear demonstration of the parallel nature of chromatic and luminance processing in the human retina, the differences that exist between ERGs from trichromatic and dichromatic subjects point to the existence of interactions between afferent post-receptoral pathways that are in operation from the earliest stages of visual processing.

Nitric oxide amplifies the rat electroretinogram.

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Vielma, Alex; Delgado, Luz; Elgueta, Claudio; Osorio, Rodrigo; Palacios, Adrián G; Schmachtenberg, Oliver

2010-11-01

It is well established that nitric oxide (NO) participates in retinal signal processing through stimulation of its receptor enzyme, soluble guanylyl cyclase (sGC). However, under pathological conditions such as uveoretinitis, diabetic or ischemic retinopathy, elevated NO concentrations may cause protein S-nitrosation and peroxynitrite formation in the retina, promoting cellular injury and apoptosis. Previous electroretinogram (ERG) studies demonstrated deleterious effects of NO on the retinal light response, but showed no evidence for a role in normal signal processing. To better understand the function of NO in ocular physiology, we investigated the effects of exogenous NO, produced by NO donors with different release kinetics, on the flash ERG of the rat. Within a limited concentration range, NO strongly amplified ERG a- and b-waves, oscillatory potentials, and the scotopic threshold response. Amplification exceeded 100% under dark adaptation, whereas the photopic ERG and the isolated cone response were increased by less than 50%. Blocking photoreceptor-bipolar cell synapses by AP-4 demonstrated a significant increase of the isolated a-wave by NO, and modeling the ERG generator PIII supported photoreceptors as primary NO targets. The sGC inhibitors ODQ and NS2028 did not reduce NO-dependent ERG amplification, ruling out an involvement of the classical NO effector cyclic GMP. Using immunohistochemistry, we show that illumination and exogenous NO altered the S-nitrosation level of the photoreceptor layer, suggesting that direct protein modifications caused by elevated levels of NO may be responsible for the observed phenomenon. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

SILDENAFIL CITRATE INDUCED RETINAL TOXICITY-ELECTRORETINOGRAM, OPTICAL COHERENCE TOMOGRAPHY, AND ADAPTIVE OPTICS FINDINGS.

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Yanoga, Fatoumata; Gentile, Ronald C; Chui, Toco Y P; Freund, K Bailey; Fell, Millie; Dolz-Marco, Rosa; Rosen, Richard B

2018-02-27

To report a case of persistent retinal toxicity associated with a high dose of sildenafil citrate intake. Single retrospective case report. A 31-year-old white man with no medical history presented with complaints of bilateral multicolored photopsias and erythropsia (red-tinted vision), shortly after taking sildenafil citrate-purchased through the internet. Patient was found to have cone photoreceptor damage, demonstrated using electroretinogram, optical coherence tomography, and adaptive optics imaging. The patient's symptoms and the photoreceptor structural changes persisted for several months. Sildenafil citrate is a widely used erectile dysfunction medication that is typically associated with transient visual symptoms in normal dosage. At high dosage, sildenafil citrate can lead to persistent retinal toxicity in certain individuals.

Relationship between eye dominance and pattern electroretinograms in normal human subjects.

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Kamis, Umit; Gunduz, Kemal; Okudan, Nilsel; Gokbel, Hakki; Bodur, Sait; Tan, Uner

2005-02-01

The authors conducted a study in 100 non-smoker healthy normal human subjects to find a relationship between eye dominance and macular function as tested by using transient stimulus and electroretinography. Eye preference procedure was carried out using two reference points and pattern electroretinograms (PERGs) were recorded using black and white checks, each check subtending 23'. Trace averager was retriggered every 300 milliseconds (ms) with data collection time of 150 ms. The difference in PERG P50 amplitudes between right and left eyes was analyzed using Student's t test. There was no significant difference in PERG P50 amplitudes between the right and left eye dominant subjects as well as no significant differences between the right and left eyes in right eye dominants and left eye dominants, but in the left-eye dominant group the left eye PERG P50 amplitudes were significantly higher in females than males. Although pattern-reversal visual evoked potentials of healthy subjects provide electrophysiological evidence of lateralization in the nervous system, sensory eye dominance seems to have no correlation with macular function.

Improvement of the classification accuracy in discriminating diabetic retinopathy by multifocal electroretinogram analysis

Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China (English)

无

2007-01-01

The multifocal electroretinogram (mfERG) is a newly developed electrophysiological technique. In this paper, a classification method is proposed for early diagnosis of the diabetic retinopathy using mfERG data. MfERG records were obtained from eyes of healthy individuals and patients with diabetes at different stages. For each mfERG record, 103 local responses were extracted. Amplitude value of each point on all the mfERG local responses was looked as one potential feature to classify the experimental subjects. Feature subsets were selected from the feature space by comparing the inter-intra distance. Based on the selected feature subset, Fisher's linear classifiers were trained. And the final classification decision of the record was made by voting all the classifiers' outputs. Applying the method to classify all experimental subjects, very low error rates were achieved. Some crucial properties of the diabetic retinopathy classification method are also discussed.

Correlation between the optical coherence tomography and electroretinogram in retinal vein occlusion macular edema

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Ya Xu

2014-11-01

Full Text Available AIM: To evaluate the correlation between retinal thickness and photopic flash electroretinogram(ERGparameters(Cone a-wave, Cone b-wave, and 30Hz flickerin patients with central retinal vein occlusion(CRVOand macular edema. METHODS: A total of 25 patients(25 CRVO eyes and 25 unaffected fellow eyeswith CRVO underwent the examination of optical coherence tomography(OCTand photopic falsh ERG. The amplitude and implicit time of the ERG parameters were extracted from the ERG traces. Retinal thicknesses were measured by OCT in nine macular subfields. Then the correlations between ERG parameters and macular morphological parameters were analyzed. RESULTS: The Cone b-wave and 30Hz flicker implicit time were correlated with macular retinal thickness in seven out of nine subfields, excluding the temporal subfields. CONCLUSION: The retinal thickness of the macular edema may be associated with inner retinal function in CRVO patients.

The need of alkalinity determination in the characterization of rain; Necesidad de la determinacion de la alcalinidad en la caracterizacion de la lluvia

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Pal Verma, Mahendra [Instituto de Investigaciones Electricas, Cuernavaca (Mexico)

1998-01-01

In this paper is presented the alkalinity determination of the carbonic species in the rain waters by the Gran titration method. The alkalinity values obtained by this method in low electric conductivity waters are fairly reliable. Also, the existing studies on the characterization of acid rains, are discussed. [Espanol] En este trabajo se presenta la medicion de la alcalinidad y la determinacion de las especies carbonicas en las aguas de lluvia por el metodo de la titulacion de Gran. Los valores de alcalinidad obtenidos por este metodo en las aguas de baja conductividad electrica son bastante confiables. Asimismo, se discuten los estudios existentes sobre la caracterizacion de la lluvia acida en la republica mexicana.

Effect of anoxia on the electroretinogram of three anoxia-tolerant vertebrates.

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Stensløkken, Kåre-Olav; Milton, Sarah L; Lutz, Peter L; Sundin, Lena; Renshaw, Gillian M C; Stecyk, Jonathan A W; Nilsson, Göran E

2008-08-01

To survive anoxia, neural ATP levels have to be defended. Reducing electrical activity, which accounts for 50% or more of neural energy consumption, should be beneficial for anoxic survival. The retina is a hypoxia sensitive part of the central nervous system. Here, we quantify the in vivo retinal light response (electroretinogram; ERG) in three vertebrates that exhibit varying degrees of anoxia tolerance: freshwater turtle (Trachemys scripta), epaulette shark (Hemiscyllium ocellatum) and leopard frog (Rana pipiens). A virtually total suppression of ERG in anoxia, probably resulting in functional blindness, has previously been seen in the extremely anoxia-tolerant crucian carp (Carassius carassius). Surprisingly, the equally anoxia-tolerant turtle, which strongly depresses brain and whole-body metabolism during anoxia, exhibited a relatively modest anoxic reduction in ERG: the combined amplitude of turtle ERG waves was reduced by approximately 50% after 2 h. In contrast, the shark b-wave amplitude practically disappeared after 30 min of severe hypoxia, and the frog b-wave was decreased by approximately 75% after 40 min in anoxia. The specific A(1) adenosine receptor antagonist CPT significantly delayed the suppression of turtle ERG, while the hypoxic shark ERG was unaffected by the non-specific adenosine receptor antagonist aminophylline, suggesting adenosinergic involvement in turtle but not in shark.

Principal components′ analysis of multifocal electroretinogram in retinitis pigmentosa

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Aniruddha Maiti

2011-01-01

Full Text Available Aims : To determine waveforms of multifocal electroretinogram (mfERG in patients with retinitis pigmentosa (RP contributing significantly to the overall retinal response by using principal components′ analysis. Settings and Design: Prospective, non-randomized, single-visit, observational, case-control study from a single tertiary ophthalmic center. Materials and Methods: Patients with various forms of RP underwent mfERG testing for a period of one year. The first-order kernel responses of RP cases were compared with concurrently recruited healthy controls. Statistical Analysis Used: Parametric data was analyzed using the unpaired t test for differences between the implicit time and amplitudes of cases and controls. Principal components′ analysis was done for each implicit time and amplitude in cases with RP using the Varimax rotation method. Results: From March 2006 to March 2007, 24 cases with typical RP (56%, 47 eyes were included in the final analysis. Their mean age was 33.7 years (19-69 ± 15.5 years. Comparison of latencies and amplitudes among RP cases with log MAR acuity ≤ 0.18 and those > 0.18, revealed significant difference in the implicit time (P1 in Ring 2 only (P=0.028. Two components (predominently from Ring 1 and 2 each contributing 66.8% and 88.8% of the total variance in the data for latencies and amplitudes respectively, were seen. Conclusions : The first two rings of the mfERG contributed to the variance of waveforms in RP, irrespective of the visual acuity and poor visual field results.

Simultaneous recording of electroretinogram and visual evoked response. Focal stimulation under direct observation.

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Hirose, T; Miyake, Y; Hara, A

1977-07-01

A system has been tested that allows simultaneous recording of the retinal response (electroretinogram [ERG]) and the occipital response (visual evoked response [VER]) with focal photic stimulation of the retina under direct observation of the fundus. A helium-neon gas laser is used as a stimulus source. The laser is chopped either by a pen motor or a rotating disc. The laser is attached to a biomicroscope through which the examiner can observe the fundus of the subject during the entire recording session. The optically clear contact lens is made with a flat surface that neutralizes refraction due to the cornea, thereby allowing fundus observation by microscope. Two metal wires mounted inside and outside of the lens serve as the electrode for the ERG. Graticules consisting of concentric circles and radial lines are projected onto the subject's fundus, providing a pattern that the examiner can use to determine the exact location to be stimulated in the fundus. With proper adjustment of stimulus and background illumination, local ERG and VER can be recorded simultaneously by stimulating the macula.

Multifocal electroretinogram in normal emmetropic subjects: Correlation with optical coherence tomography

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Rajvardhan Azad

2012-01-01

Full Text Available Aim of the Study: To establish the normative database for multifocal electroretinogram (mfERG parameters in a normal emmetropic population. To correlate the data so obtained with the central macular thickness obtained using the optical coherence tomography (OCT scan. Materials and Methods: mfERG data were obtained from 222 eyes of 111 emmetropic subjects. The amplitude (nv/deg 2 and implicit times (ms of the first-order kernel mfERG responses (N1, P1, and N2 waves were obtained and grouped into five rings (Ring 1: Central 2°, Ring 2: 2-5°, Ring 3: 5-10°, Ring 4: 10-15°, Ring 5: >15°. The central macular thickness (CMT was obtained using the macular thickness scan protocol of the OCT. Results: The mfERG data obtained were used to create a normative database. The amplitudes of the mfERG waves were maximum in the fovea and progressively decreased with increasing eccentricity (P = 0.0001. The latencies of the P1 and N2 waves were longest in the central ring and progressively shortened with eccentricity (P = 0.0001. No statistically significant correlations were observed between central ring 1 parameters and the CMT. Conclusion: This study establishes normative database for mfERG parameters in an emmetropic population. No statistically significant correlation was noted between CMT and mfERG parameters.

Correlation of Macular Focal Electroretinogram with Ellipsoid Zone Extension in Stargardt Disease

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Edoardo Abed

2017-01-01

Full Text Available Stargardt disease (STGD1 is the most common cause of inherited juvenile macular degeneration. This disease is characterized by a progressive accumulation of lipofuscin in the outer retina and subsequent loss of photoreceptors and retinal pigment epithelium. The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between cone photoreceptor function and structure in STGD1. Macular function was assessed by visual acuity measurement and focal electroretinogram (FERG recording while spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT imaging was performed to evaluate the integrity of photoreceptors. FERG amplitude was significantly reduced in patients with Stargardt disease (p<0.0001. The amplitude of FERG showed a negative relationship with interruption of ellipsoid zone (EZ (R2=0.54, p<0.0001 and a positive correlation with average macular thickness (AMT. Conversely, visual acuity was only weakly correlated with central macular thickness (CMT (R2=0.12, p=0.04. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that FERG amplitude is a reliable indicator of macular cone function while visual acuity reflects the activity of the foveal region. A precise assessment of macular cone function by FERG recording may be useful to monitor the progression of STGD1 and to select the optimal candidates to include in future clinical trials to treat this disease.

An approach based on wavelet analysis for feature extraction in the a-wave of the electroretinogram.

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Barraco, R; Persano Adorno, D; Brai, M

2011-12-01

Most biomedical signals are non-stationary. The knowledge of their frequency content and temporal distribution is then useful in a clinical context. The wavelet analysis is appropriate to achieve this task. The present paper uses this method to reveal hidden characteristics and anomalies of the human a-wave, an important component of the electroretinogram since it is a measure of the functional integrity of the photoreceptors. We here analyse the time-frequency features of the a-wave both in normal subjects and in patients affected by Achromatopsia, a pathology disturbing the functionality of the cones. The results indicate the presence of two or three stable frequencies that, in the pathological case, shift toward lower values and change their times of occurrence. The present findings are a first step toward a deeper understanding of the features of the a-wave and possible applications to diagnostic procedures in order to recognise incipient photoreceptoral pathologies. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Multifocal electroretinogram and central visual field testing in central areolar choroidal dystrophy.

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Gundogan, Fatih Cakir; Dinç, Umut Asli; Erdem, Uzeyir; Ozge, Gokhan; Sobaci, Gungor

2010-01-01

To study multifocal electroretinogram (mfERG) and its relation to retinal sensitivity assessed by Humphrey visual field (HVF) analysis in central areolar choroidal dystrophy (CACD). Seven eyes of 4 patients with CACD and 15 normal control subjects were examined. mfERG and central 30/2 HVF were tested for each participant. Ring analysis in mfERG was evaluated. HVF results were evaluated in 5 concentric rings in order to compare the results to concentric ring analysis in mfERG. The differences between control subjects and patients were evaluated by Mann-Whitney U test and the correlations were assessed by Spearman test. Mean Snellen acuity was 0.49+/-0.10 in patients. HVF revealed central scotoma in 6 of 7 eyes (85.7%), whereas a paracentral scotoma extending to fixation point was detected in 1 eye. The retinal sensitivities in 5 concentric rings in HVF were significantly lower (p<0.001 for ring 1 to ring 4, and p=0.017 in ring 5) in CACD patients. Similarly, CACD patients had lower P1/N1 amplitudes (p<0.05) and delayed P1/N1 implicit times (p<0.05). In CACD, in the areas of scotoma detected by HVF, mfERG values were depressed. However, both mfERG and HVF abnormalities were found outside the areas of ophthalmoscopically normal retinal areas.

Fatores técnicos intervenientes na realização do exame de eletrorretinograma multifocal (ERGmf Technical factors that influence multifocal electroretinogram (mfERG recording

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Maria Kiyoko Oyamada

2007-08-01

adequada da amplitude e do tempo implícito dos picos N1 e P1, fundamentais para a corroboração diagnóstica de lesões ou afecções retinianas.PURPOSE: To describe the main intervening factors observed during the acquisition and analysis of multifocal electroretinogram (mfERG, that could affect the recorded signal, the obtained responses and their analysis. METHODS: The error factors observed during the acquisition of 100 sequential multifocal electroretinogram tests, in the period of May to July, 2005 were analyzed. The examinations of multifocal electroretinogram were carried out in agreement with international guideline recommendations, taking into account the established parameters of equipment, with 61 elements, and visual angle of 30º. All patients had been submitted to complete ophthalmologic examination, excluding those with inadequate transparency of ways, flat corneas and those incapable to visualize a central fixation target. RESULTS: The intervening factors, that could cause artifacts and errors in the interpretation of the obtained results, observed and corrected during the acquisition of multifocal electroretinogram were: eccentric or poor fixation, eye movements, orbicular contraction, cervical muscle contraction, inadequate transparency of the corneal electrode, electrode displacement, lens support decentralization, inadequate viewing distance in patients with high refractive errors, eye height inadequacy in relation to the center of the screen, electrical noise in 60 HZ frequency and electromagnetic field and high impedances. Excessive use of filters in wave processing for noise and artifact removal can interfere with the analysis of the obtained results. CONCLUSION: Simple observational cares during signal acquisition are of significant importance to ensure accuracy of the topographical electroretinogram information, good waveform morphology and low noise level register. Through their ready correction, the correct and adjusted analysis of the

New Mydriasis-Free Electroretinogram Recorded with Skin Electrodes in Healthy Subjects

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Ken Asakawa

2017-01-01

Full Text Available Purpose. To evaluate the reproducibility and consistency of the new mydriasis-free electroretinogram (ERG with a skin electrode (RETeval device, to determine the normative values of parameters, and to clarify the usefulness of pupil records to colored-light stimulus. Methods. A total of 100 eyes of 50 healthy subjects (mean age, 21.4 years were enrolled. The diagnostic parameters obtained by the RETeval device were examined under the following conditions. The reproducibility was determined with the coefficient of variation (CV. The consistency was examined by intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs. The mean value and the normal range were analyzed with a 95% confidence interval as the normative values of parameters. The correlation of parameters to pupil records (area ratio, constriction ratio and flicker ERG was also examined in the diabetic retinopathy assessment protocol. Results. From the CV for each of the two measurements, the amplitude has a low reproducibility compared with the implicit time. Generally good consistency was obtained with both ERG parameters (ICCs = 0.48–0.92. Moderate correlations were found for the white-, red-, and blue-light stimulus in the area ratio and the constriction ratio, respectively (r = 0.44–0.62; P = 0.010–<0.0001. No correlation was observed between pupil and flicker parameters (r = 0.06–0.34; P = 0.646–0.051. Conclusions. The RETeval device was suggested as a possible screening device to detect the visual afferent diseases by evaluating in combination with the ERG recording and the colored-light pupil response.

Abnormalities of contrast sensitivity and electroretinogram following sevoflurane anaesthesia.

LENUS (Irish Health Repository)

Iohom, G

2012-02-03

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: We tested the hypothesis that disturbances of the visual pathway following sevoflurane general anaesthesia (a) exist and persist even after clinical discharge criteria have been met and (b) are associated with decreased contrast sensitivity. METHODS: We performed pattern and full-field flash electroretinograms (ERG) in 10 unpremedicated ASA I patients who underwent nitrous oxide\\/sevoflurane anaesthesia. ERG and contrast sensitivity were recorded preoperatively, immediately after discharge from the recovery room and 2 h after discontinuation of sevoflurane. The time at which the Post Anaesthesia Discharge Score first exceeded 9 was also noted. Data were analysed using paired, one-tailed t-tests and Pearson\\'s correlation coefficient. RESULTS: On the full-field photopic ERG, b-wave latency was greater at each postoperative time point (31.6+\\/-1.1 and 30.8+\\/-1.1 ms) compared to preoperatively (30.1+\\/-1.1 ms, P < 0.001 and P = 0.03, respectively). Oscillatory potential latencies were greater on discharge from the recovery room compared with preanaesthetic values (23.1+\\/-3.1 vs. 22.4+\\/-3.3 ms, P = 0.01) and returned to baseline by 2 h after emergence from anaesthesia. Also at 2 h after emergence from anaesthesia: (a) P50 latency on the pattern ERG was greater than at baseline (81.5+\\/-17.9 vs. 51.15+\\/-22.6ms, P = 0.004); (b) N95 amplitude was less compared to preanaesthetic values (2.6+\\/-0.5 vs. 3.3+\\/-0.4 microV, P = 0.003) and (c) contrast sensitivity was less compared to baseline values (349+\\/-153 vs. 404+\\/-140, P = 0.048). A positive correlation was demonstrated between contrast sensitivity and both N95 amplitude and b-wave latency (r = 0.99 and r = -0.55 at significance levels of P < 0.005 and P < 0.05, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: Postoperative ERG abnormalities and associated decreases in contrast sensitivity are consistently present in patients who have undergone nitrous oxide\\/sevoflurane anaesthesia. These

Comparison of Photopic Negative Response of Full-Field and Focal Electroretinograms in Detecting Glaucomatous Eyes

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Shigeki Machida

2011-01-01

Full Text Available Purpose. To compare the photopic negative response (PhNR of the full-field electroretinogram (ERG to the PhNR of the focal ERGs in detecting glaucoma. Methods. One hundred and three eyes with glaucoma and 42 normal eyes were studied. Full-field ERGs were elicited by red stimuli on a blue background. The focal ERGs were elicited by a 15∘ white stimulus spot centered on the macula, the superotemporal or the inferotemporal areas of the macula. Results. In early glaucoma, the areas under the receiver operating characteristic curves (AUCs were significantly larger for the focal PhNR (0.863–0.924 than those for the full-field PhNR (0.666–0.748 (P<.05. The sensitivity was significantly higher for the focal PhNR than for the full-field PhNR in early (P<.01 and intermediate glaucoma (P<.05. In advanced glaucoma, there was no difference in the AUCs and sensitivities between the focal and full-field PhNRs. Conclusions. The focal ERG has the diagnostic ability with higher sensitivity in detecting early and intermediate glaucoma than the full-field ERG.

Avaliação da onda b do eletrorretinograma na Athene cunicularia Evaluation of the b-wave electroretinogram in Athene cunicularia

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Márcio Penha Morterá Rodrigues

2008-12-01

Full Text Available OBJETIVO: Avaliar a onda b do eletrorretinograma da coruja buraqueira (Athene cunicularia, diferenciando a resposta elétrica retiniana em ambiente fotópico e escotópico. MÉTODOS: Foi realizado estudo observacional transversal, com o registro do eletrorretinograma full field de quatorze olhos, sendo sete estimulados em ambiente fotópico e sete em ambiente escotópico sob estímulo com luz branca seguindo protocolo da ISCEV. RESULTADOS: As respostas elétricas da retina da espécie estudada para o espectro de luz aplicado mostraram-se presentes em ambos ambientes, não havendo diferença estatisticamente significativa da resposta elétrica da retina da Athene cunicularia quando estimulada com luz branca, tanto em ambiente escotópico quanto fotópico. CONCLUSÃO: Os dados nos permitem, portanto, inferir que a percepção pela Athene cunicularia da cor branca é a mesma, no claro e no escuro, o que pode ser responsável pela capacidade adaptativa da espécie no seu habitat natural.PURPOSE: To evaluate b-wave of the electroretinogram of the burrowing owl (Athene cunicularia, differentiating the retinal electric reply in photopic and scotopic environment. METHODS: Transversal observational study was carried through, with the register of the full field electroretinogram of fourteen eyes; seven were stimulated in photopic environment and seven in scotopic environment using with white light according to the ISCEV protocol. RESULTS: The electrical responses of the retina of the species studied showed no statistically significant difference for the applied spectrum of white light in both scotopic photopic environments. CONCLUSION: The data allow us, therefore, to infer that the perception of the Athene cunicularia of the white color is the same one, in clear and dark environments, what it can be responsible for the adaptive capacity of the species in their natural habitat.

Assessment of Macular Function during Vitrectomy: New Approach Using Intraoperative Focal Macular Electroretinograms.

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Celso Soiti Matsumoto

Full Text Available To describe a new technique to record focal macular electroretinograms (FMERGs during vitrectomy to assess macular function.Intraoperative FMERGs (iFMERGs were recorded in ten patients (10 eyes who undergo vitrectomy. iFMERGs were elicited by focal macular stimulation. The stimulus light was directed to the macular area through a 25 gauge (25G glass fiber optic bundle. Background light was delivered through a dual chandelier-type light fiber probe. Focal macular responses elicited with combinations of stimulus and background luminances were analyzed.A stimulus luminance that was approximately 1.75 log units brighter than the background light was able to elicit focal macular responses that were not contaminated by stray light responses. Thus, a stimulus luminance of 160 cd/m2 delivered on a background of 3 cd/m2 elicited iFMEGs from only the stimulated area. This combination of stimulus and background luminances did not elicit a response when the stimulus was projected onto the optic nerve head. The iFMERGs elicited by a 10° stimulus with a duration of 100 ms and an interstimulus interval of 150 ms consisted of an a-, b-, and d-waves, the oscillatory potentials, and the photopic negative response (PhNR.Focal ERGs with all components can be recorded from the macula and other retinal areas during vitreous surgery. This new technique will allow surgeons to assess the function of focal areas of the retina intraoperatively.

Electroretinogram (ERG) to photic stimuli should be carefully distinct from photic brainstem reflex in patients with deep coma.

Science.gov (United States)

Mitsuhashi, Masahiro; Hitomi, Takefumi; Aoyama, Akihiro; Kaido, Toshimi; Ikeda, Akio; Takahashi, Ryosuke

2017-08-31

Patient 1: A 35-year-old woman became deep coma because of intracranial hemorrhage after pulmonary surgery. Patient 2: A 39-year-old woman became deep coma because of cerebellar hemorrhage after hepatic surgery. Scalp-recorded digital electroencephalography (EEG) showed electrocerebral inactivity in both cases. In addition, both EEG showed repetitive discharges at bilateral frontopolar electrodes in response to photic stimuli. The amplitude and latency of the discharges was 17 μV and 24 msec in case 1, and 9 μV and 27 msec in case 2 respectively. The activity at left frontopolar electrode disappeared after coverage of the ipsilateral eye. Based on these findings, we could exclude the possibility of brainstem response and judged it as electroretinogram (ERG). Photic stimulation is a useful activation method in EEG recording, and we can also evaluate brainstem function by checking photic blink reflex if it is evoked. However, we should be cautious about the distinction of ERG from photic blink reflex when brain death is clinically suspected.

Facilitating the analysis of the multifocal electroretinogram using the free software environment R.

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Bergholz, Richard; Rossel, Mirjam; Dutescu, Ralf M; Vöge, Klaas P; Salchow, Daniel J

2018-01-01

The large amount of data rendered by the multifocal electroretinogram (mfERG) can be analyzed and visualized in various ways. The evaluation and comparison of more than one examination is time-consuming and prone to create errors. Using the free software environment R we developed a solution to average the data of multiple examinations and to allow a comparison of different patient groups. Data of single mfERG recordings as exported in .csv format from a RETIport 21 system (version 7/03, Roland Consult) or manually compiled .csv files are the basis for the calculations. The R software extracts response densities and implicit times of N1 and P1 for the sum response, each ring eccentricity, and each single hexagon. Averages can be calculated for as many subjects as needed. The mentioned parameters can then be compared to another group of patients or healthy subjects. Application of the software is illustrated by comparing 11 patients with chloroquine maculopathy to a control group of 7 healthy subjects. The software scripts display response density and implicit time 3D plots of each examination as well as of the group averages. Differences of the group averages are presented as 3D and grayscale 2D plots. Both groups are compared using the t-test with Bonferroni correction. The group comparison is furthermore illustrated by the average waveforms and by boxplots of each eccentricity. This software solution on the basis of the programming language R facilitates the clinical and scientific use of the mfERG and aids in interpretation and analysis.

[Pattern-reversal electroretinogram (PERG): a normative study in adults].

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Alves, Letícia Dourado; Berezovsky, Adriana; Sacai, Paula Yuri; Pereira, Josenilson Martins; Salomão, Solange Rios

2010-01-01

To determine normative values for pattern-reversal electroretinogram (PERG) in healthy adult volunteers according to the standard protocol recommended by the International Society for Clinical Electrophysiology of Vision-ISCEV. Participants were 30 healthy volunteers (15 males) with ages from 18 to 61 years (mean= 30.8 +/- 8.7 yrs.; median= 29.5 yrs). Inclusion criteria were: visual acuity of 0.0 logMAR (20/20 Snellen) in each eye, absence of visual complaints, absence of media opacities, negative history for ocular or neurological diseases, negative family history for ocular and informed consent. PERG was recorded from each eye in a darkened room at 1 m from a high resolution display monitor. Stimuli were monochromatic checkerboards subtending 60, 15 e 7.5 minutes of visual angle reversing at 1.9 Hz. Responses were obtained from modified disposable fiber electrodes developed at UNIFESP. Latency (ms) for N35, P50 and N95 components as well as peak-to-peak amplitudes (microV) for N35-P50 and P50-N95 were determined. For normative values only one randomly chosen eye was included. Normal limits were calculated as 97.5% percentiles for latency and 2.5% percentile for amplitudes for each stimulus size. Normal limits for N35, P50 and N95 latencies for 60', 15' and 7.5' stimuli were respectively: N35 - 40.1; 39.9 and 41.3 ms; P50 - 60.5; 64.4 and 65.6 ms and N95 - 103.4; 104.6 and 104.6 ms. For amplitude the normative values for N35-P50 and P50-N95 for 60', 15' and 7.5' were respectively: N35-P50 - 1.7; 1.6 and 0.9 microV; P50-N95 - 3.8; 2.8 and 1.5 microV. No gender differences were found either for latency or for amplitude in the three stimulus sizes. There was no correlation between PERG latency and amplitude with age, except for P50 amplitude for stimulus 15'(r=0.39; P=0.035). Normative values were determined for PERG parameters of amplitude and latency for three stimulus sizes. These parameters are important for evaluating the normal functioning of retinal ganglion

Electroretinogram responses of the normal thoroughbred horse sedated with detomidine hydrochloride.

Science.gov (United States)

Church, Melanie L; Norman, Joanna C

2012-09-01

The main objective was to record electroretinogram (ERG) parameters of normal thoroughbred mares using the HMsERG, a mini-Ganzfeld electroretinographic unit, and a contact lens electrode. The second objective was to determine whether IV detomidine hydrochloride at 0.015 mg/kg is consistently an effective choice for sedation of horses undergoing this ERG protocol. The study population consisted of 30 normal thoroughbred mares. ERG data were harvested using a protocol that included three different light intensities (10, 3000, and 10,000 mcd s/m(2)) and a 30-Hz flicker at 3000 mcd s/m(2). Mean, median, standard deviation, and estimated normal ranges using the 5-95% of the data for a- and b-wave implicit times (IT), amplitudes (AMP), and b/a ratios were reported. Scotopic results at low intensity (10 mcd s/m(2)) had estimated ranges for b-wave IT of 41.8-72.9 ms and AMP of 19.8-173.3 μV. Middle intensity (3000 mcd s/m(2)) a-wave IT was 13.2-14.7 ms with a-wave AMP of 68.4-144 μV; the b-wave IT was 28.7-41.5 ms with b-wave AMP of 105.7-271.5 μV; and the b/a ratio was 0.95-2.71. The high-intensity (10,000 mcd s/m(2)) average recordings showed an a-wave IT of 13-14.9 ms, a-wave AMP of 85.7-186.8 μV; b-wave IT of 26.6-45.4 ms, b-wave AMP of 104.7-250.6 μV; and a b/a wave ratio of 0.7-2.0. The 30-Hz cone flicker showed an IT of 22.8-28.9 ms and AMP of 44.1-117.1 μV. Results of normal thoroughbred ERG responses are reported. The protocol proved to be simple and safe and provided consistent results. © 2012 American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists.

Characterization of Hospital Residuals; Caracterizacion de Residuos Hospitalarios

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Blanco Meza, A; Bonilla Jimenez, S

1997-07-01

The main objective of this investigation is the characterization of the solid residuals. A description of the handling of the liquid and gassy waste generated in hospitals is also given, identifying the source where they originate. To achieve the proposed objective the work was divided in three stages: The first one was the planning and the coordination with each hospital center, in this way, to determine the schedule of gathering of the waste can be possible. In the second stage a fieldwork was made; it consisted in gathering the quantitative and qualitative information of the general state of the handling of residuals. In the third and last stage, the information previously obtained was organized to express the results as the production rate per day by bed, generation of solid residuals for sampled services, type of solid residuals and density of the same ones. With the obtained results, approaches are settled down to either determine design parameters for final disposition whether for incineration, trituration, sanitary filler or recycling of some materials, and storage politics of the solid residuals that allow to determine the gathering frequency. The study concludes that it is necessary to improve the conditions of the residuals handling in some aspects, to provide the cleaning personnel of the equipment for gathering disposition and of security, minimum to carry out this work efficiently, and to maintain a control of all the dangerous waste, like sharp or polluted materials. In this way, an appreciable reduction is guaranteed in the impact on the atmosphere. (Author) [Spanish] El objetivo principal de esta investigacion es la caracterizacion de los residuos solidos. Se da tambien una descripcion del manejo de los desechos liquidos y gaseosos generados en hospitales, identificando la fuente donde se originan. Para lograr el objetivo propuesto se dividio el trabajo en tres etapas; la primera fue el planeamiento y la coordinacion con cada centro hospitalario

Electrorretinograma: Valores normales con diferentes protocolos de estudio Electroretinogram: Normal values with different study protocols

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Rosaralis Paneca Santiesteban

2005-12-01

Full Text Available En 7 investigaciones por separado se llevó a cabo, el registro, la observación y comparación de los valores normales de frecuencia macular, amplitud y latencia de las ondas A y B del electrorretinograma, por cada ojo, obtenidos con diferentes electrodos, equipos y protocolos para registrarlo, usados durante los años 1977 hasta el 2000 en el laboratorio de Electrofisiología de la Visión del Instituto de Neurología y Neurocirugía. Se incluyó la metodología del electrorretinograma más recientemente utilizada, según las normas internacionales sobre el electrorretinograma estandarizado de la Sociedad Internacional para la Electrofisiología de la Visión, que fue el único protocolo de este trabajo en que se incluyó midriasis y preadaptación a la oscuridad o a la luz. Los valores de amplitud, latencia y réplica macular de cada uno de esos protocolos se exponen y se comparan entre sí los de similar protocolo. Ademàs, se presentan las curvas y valores del electrorretinograma estandarizado según las normas de la sociedad antes referidaA study was conducted in 7 separate researches, where the normal values of macular frequency, amplitude and latency of the A and B waves of the electroretinogram were recorded, observed and compared for each eye. These data were obtained with different electrodes, equipment and protocols that were used from 1977 to 2000 at the Laboratory of Vision Electrophysiology of the Institute of Neurology and Neurosurgery. These techniques have allowed to characterize diseases and to suggest the site of the injuries causing them

Evaluation of cone function by a handheld non-mydriatic flicker electroretinogram device

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Nakamura N

2016-06-01

Full Text Available Natsuko Nakamura,1 Kaoru Fujinami,1 Yoshinobu Mizuno,2 Toru Noda,2 Kazushige Tsunoda11Laboratory of Visual Physiology, Division of Vision Research, National Institute of Sensory Organs, 2Department of Ophthalmology, National Hospital Organization, National Tokyo Medical Center, Tokyo, JapanPurpose: Full-field electroretinograms (ERGs are used to evaluate retinal function in patients with various types of hereditary and acquired retinal diseases. However, ERG recordings require relatively invasive procedures, including pupillary dilation and the use of contact lens electrodes. Thus, it would be helpful to have a simpler and noninvasive screening method. The purpose of this study was to determine whether a new, handheld, portable ERG device, RETeval™, can be used to screen patients for cone dysfunction.Patients and methods: Thirty-five eyes of 35 patients who had reduced cone responses ascertained by a conventional ERG system using contact lens electrodes were studied. The causative diseases included achromatopsia, cone dystrophy, cone-rod dystrophy, retinitis pigmentosa, choroidal dystrophy, autoimmune retinopathy, and Stargardt disease. The flicker ERGs were recorded with the RETeval™ under undilated conditions with skin electrodes (stimulus strength, 3.0 cd·s/m2; frequency, 28.3 Hz, and the responses were compared to that of 50 healthy eyes. The amplitudes and implicit times of the fundamental component of the flicker ERGs were analyzed in three age groups: Group A, ≤20 years; Group B, 21–40 years; and Group C, ≥41 years.Results: In all of the age groups, the amplitudes of the ERGs were significantly smaller and the implicit times significantly longer in patients with cone dysfunction than in the control eyes. All but one of the patients had flicker amplitudes lower than the mean −2.0 standard deviation of control eyes.Conclusion: The RETeval™ has a potential of being used to screen for cone dysfunction. The entire examination

Solar Simulation Laboratory Description and Manual.

Science.gov (United States)

1985-06-01

2000 was sent back to Cyborg Corp. three times over a five month period for repairs. The solar lab is presently using a loaner from Cyborg Corp. The IBM...PC/XT is connected to the ISAAC 2000 by a RS232 connection. All programs were written in advanced basic ("BASICA"). BASICA was used because Cyborg ...2067 CH/P Temperature.Control Bath TechnicalManual, November. 1980. A 30. Cyborg Corporation, Version 1.2, IS..AC.....Co..mpiut.er.liz e.d Data

What monitor can replace the cathode-ray tube for visual stimulation to elicit multifocal electroretinograms?

Science.gov (United States)

Matsumoto, Celso Soiti; Shinoda, Kei; Matsumoto, Harue; Seki, Keisuke; Nagasaka, Eiichiro; Iwata, Takeshi; Mizota, Atsushi

2014-08-05

To compare a conventional cathode-ray tube (CRT) screen to organic light-emitting diode (OLED) and liquid crystal display (LCD) screens as visual stimulators to elicit multifocal electroretinograms (mfERGs), mfERGs were recorded from seven eyes of seven healthy volunteers (21 ± 2 years). The mfERGs elicited by a conventional CRT screen (S710, Compaq Computer Co.) were compared to those elicited by a studio-grade master OLED monitor (PVM-1741, Sony, Japan) and a conventional LCD (S1721, Flexscan, Eizo Nanao Corp., Japan). The luminance changes of each monitor were measured with a photodiode. CRT, OLED, and LCD screens with a frame frequency of 60 Hz were studied. A hexagonal stimulus array with 61 stimulus elements was created on each monitor. The serial white stimuli of the OLED screen at 60 Hz did not fuse, and that of the LCD screens fused. The amplitudes of P1 and P2 of the first-order kernels of the mfERGs were not significantly different from those elicited by the CRT and OLED screens, and the P1 amplitude of the first-order kernel elicited by the LCD stimuli was significantly smaller than that elicited by the CRT in all the groups of the averaged hexagonal elements. The implicit times were approximately 10 ms longer in almost all components elicited by the LCD screen compared to those elicited by the CRT screen. The mfERGs elicited by monitors other than the CRT should be carefully interpreted, especially those elicited by LCD screens. The OLED had good performance, and we conclude that it can replace the CRT as a stimulator for mfERGs; however, a collection of normative data is recommended. © 2014 ARVO.

Investigation of the Protective Effects of Taurine against Alloxan-Induced Diabetic Retinal Changes via Electroretinogram and Retinal Histology with New Zealand White Rabbits

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Samuel Tung-Hsing Chiang

2014-01-01

Full Text Available The purpose of this study was to investigate the protective role of orally administered taurine against diabetic retinal changes via electroretinogram (ERG and retinal histology on rabbits. Rabbits were randomly assigned into groups: Group I (vehicle administration only; Group II (diabetes: induced by 100 mg/kg alloxan injection; Group III (diabetes and fed with 200 mg/kg taurine; and Group IV (diabetes and fed with 400 mg/kg taurine. The body weight and blood glucose levels of the rabbits were monitored weekly. The ERG was measured on weeks 5 and 15. Retinal histology was analyzed in the end of the experiment. Results revealed that a taurine supplement significantly ameliorates the alloxan-induced hyperglycemia and protects the retina from electrophysiological changes. Group II showed a significant (P0.05 between all groups and when compared with those of Group I. Our study provides solid evidences that taurine possesses an antidiabetic activity, reduced loss of body weight, and less electrophysiological changes of the diabetic retina.

Relationship between optical coherence tomography, pattern electroretinogram and automated perimetry in eyes with temporal hemianopia from chiasmal compression.

Science.gov (United States)

Monteiro, Mário L R; Cunha, Leonardo P; Costa-Cunha, Luciana V F; Maia, Otacílio O; Oyamada, Maria K

2009-08-01

To evaluate the relationship between pattern electroretinogram (PERG) amplitude, macular and retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness by optical coherence tomography (OCT), and visual field (VF) loss on standard automated perimetry (SAP) in eyes with temporal hemianopia from chiasmal compression. Forty-one eyes from 41 patients with permanent temporal VF defects from chiasmal compression and 41 healthy subjects underwent transient full-field and hemifield (temporal or nasal) stimulation PERG, SAP and time domain-OCT macular and RNFL thickness measurements. Comparisons were made using Student's t-test. Deviation from normal VF sensitivity for the central 18 degrees of VF was expressed in 1/Lambert units. Correlations between measurements were verified by linear regression analysis. PERG and OCT measurements were significantly lower in eyes with temporal hemianopia than in normal eyes. A significant correlation was found between VF sensitivity loss and full-field or nasal, but not temporal, hemifield PERG amplitude. Likewise a significant correlation was found between VF sensitivity loss and most OCT parameters. No significant correlation was observed between OCT and PERG parameters, except for nasal hemifield amplitude. A significant correlation was observed between several macular and RNFL thickness parameters. In patients with chiasmal compression, PERG amplitude and OCT thickness measurements were significant related to VF loss, but not to each other. OCT and PERG quantify neuronal loss differently, but both technologies are useful in understanding structure-function relationship in patients with chiasmal compression. (ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT00553761).

Preliminary Characterization of the Liquid Discharge of the Mexico Hospital; Caracterizacion Preliminar de la Descarga Liquida del Hospital Mexico

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Hernandez Rojas, A

2001-07-01

constituye un grave problema a nivel nacional. En este trabajo se realiza una caracterizacion preliminar de la descarga liquida del Hospital Mexico. Para ello se analizaron diferentes puntos de vertido dentro de la institucion, ellos son : Lavanderia, cocina central, Laboratorio Clinico, Rayos X, Laboratorio de Biomasa, Morgue y la descarga final del hospital. Esto con el fin de conocer el manejo de los desechos liquidos en el centro de salud, la calidad sanitaria de estos vertidos y su influencia en las aguas crudas del Hospital Mexico en el cuerpo receptor. Para este estudio primero se coordino con el personal de cada departamento para conocer sobre el manejo y tipo de residuos liquidos que son descargados al sistema de tuberias. Posteriormente se realizaron las pruebas fisico-quimicas y biologicas con base en dos muestreos compuestos realizados los dias 26 de octubre y 4 de noviembre de 1998. Entre las pruebas realizadas se tienen: pH, DBO, DQO, SAAM, Grasas y Aceites, Temperatura, Nitrogeno y Coliformes Fecales, dependiendo de las caracteristicas de su punto de procedencia. Al final del estudio, se evaluaron los resultados obtenidos para cada punto de vertido estudiado y luego se analizo la influencia de estos focos sobre la calidad de las aguas crudas del hospital, las cuales descargan en una quebrada localizada al costado noroeste de las instalaciones. Los resultados obtenidos permiten conocer preliminarmente la caracterizacion de la descarga liquida del Hospital Mexico y lo catalogan como una fuente de contaminacion. El Hospital requiere de una planta de tratamiento biologica para aquellos vertidos biodegradables, y de un sistema de tratamiento quimico para tratar ese tipo de productos, que son utilizados en los procesos propios de cada departamento; ademas se requiere tomar en cuenta medidas de reduccion de contaminacion que disminuyan la cantidad de desechos desde la fuente. (Author)

Serum TRPM1 autoantibodies from melanoma associated retinopathy patients enter retinal on-bipolar cells and attenuate the electroretinogram in mice.

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Wei-Hong Xiong

Full Text Available Melanoma-associated retinopathy (MAR is a paraneoplastic syndrome associated with cutaneous malignant melanoma and the presence of autoantibodies that label neurons in the inner retina. The visual symptoms and electroretinogram (ERG phenotype characteristic of MAR resemble the congenital visual disease caused by mutations in TRPM1, a cation channel expressed by both melanocytes and retinal bipolar cells. Four serum samples from MAR patients were identified as TRPM1 immunoreactive by 1. Labeling of ON-bipolar cells in TRPM1+/+ but not TRPM1-/- mouse retina, 2. Labeling of TRPM1-transfected CHO cells; and 3. Attenuation of the ERG b-wave following intravitreal injection of TRPM1-positive MAR IgG into wild-type mouse eyes, and the appearance of the IgG in the retinal bipolar cells at the conclusion of the experiment. Furthermore, the epitope targeted by the MAR autoantibodies was localized within the amino-terminal cytoplasmic domain of TRPM1. Incubation of live retinal neurons with TRPM1-positive MAR serum resulted in the selective accumulation of IgG in ON-bipolar cells from TRPM1+/+ mice, but not TRPM1-/- mice, suggesting that the visual deficits in MAR are caused by the uptake of TRPM1 autoantibodies into ON-bipolar cells, where they bind to an intracellular epitope of the channel and reduce the ON-bipolar cell response to light.

Night blindness and abnormal cone electroretinogram ON responses in patients with mutations in the GRM6 gene encoding mGluR6

Science.gov (United States)

Dryja, Thaddeus P.; McGee, Terri L.; Berson, Eliot L.; Fishman, Gerald A.; Sandberg, Michael A.; Alexander, Kenneth R.; Derlacki, Deborah J.; Rajagopalan, Aruna S.

2005-01-01

We report three unrelated patients with mutations in the GRM6 gene that normally encodes the glutamate receptor mGluR6. This neurotransmitter receptor has been shown previously to be present only in the synapses of the ON bipolar cell dendrites, and it mediates synaptic transmission from rod and cone photoreceptors to this type of second-order neuron. Despite the synaptic defect, best visual acuities were normal or only moderately reduced (20/15 to 20/40). The patients were night blind from an early age, and when maximally dark-adapted, they could perceive lights only with an intensity equal to or slightly dimmer than that normally detected by the cone system (i.e., 2-3 log units above normal). Electroretinograms (ERGs) in response to single brief flashes of light had clearly detectable a-waves, which are derived from photoreceptors, and greatly reduced b-waves, which are derived from the second-order inner retinal neurons. ERGs in response to sawtooth flickering light indicated a markedly reduced ON response and a nearly normal OFF response. There was no subjective delay in the perception of suddenly appearing white vs. black objects on a gray background. These patients exemplify a previously unrecognized, autosomal recessive form of congenital night blindness associated with a negative ERG waveform. PMID:15781871

Chloroquine causes similar electroretinogram modifications, neuronal phospholipidosis and marked impairment of synaptic vesicle transport in Albino and Pigmented Rats

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Lezmi, Stéphane; Rokh, Najla; Saint-Macary, Gérard; Pino, Michael; Sallez, Valérie; Thevenard, Françoise; Roome, Nigel; Rosolen, Serge

2013-01-01

Retinal toxicity of chloroquine has been known for several years, but the mechanism(s) of toxicity remain controversial; some author support the idea that the binding of chloroquine to melanin pigments in the retinal pigmented epithelium (RPE) play a major toxic role by concentrating the drug in the eye. In our study, 12 albinos Sprague-Dawley (SD) and 12 pigmented Brown Norway (BN) rats were treated orally for 3 months with chloroquine to compare functional and pathological findings. On Flash electroretinograms (ERG) performed in scotopic conditions, similar and progressive (time-dependent) delayed onset and decreased amplitudes of oscillatory potentials (from Day 71) and b-waves (on Day 92) were identified in both BN and SD rats. In both strains, identical morphological changes consisted of neuronal phospholipidosis associated with UV auto-fluorescence without evidence of retinal degeneration and gliosis; the RPE did not show any morphological lesions or autofluorescence. IHC analyses demonstrated a decrease in GABA expression in the inner nuclear layer. In addition, a marked accumulation of synaptic vesicles coupled with a marked disruption of neurofilaments in the optic nerve fibers was identified. In conclusion, ERG observations were very similar to those described in humans. Comparable ERG modifications, histopathology and immunohistochemistry findings were observed in the retina of both rat strains suggesting that melanin pigment is unlikely involved. chloroquine-induced impairment of synaptic vesicle transport, likely related to disruption of neurofilaments was identified and non-previously reported. This new mechanism of toxicity may also be responsible for the burry vision described in humans chronically treated with chloroquine

Chloroquine causes similar electroretinogram modifications, neuronal phospholipidosis and marked impairment of synaptic vesicle transport in albino and pigmented rats.

Science.gov (United States)

Lezmi, Stéphane; Rokh, Najla; Saint-Macary, Gérard; Pino, Michael; Sallez, Valérie; Thevenard, Françoise; Roome, Nigel; Rosolen, Serge

2013-06-07

Retinal toxicity of chloroquine has been known for several years, but the mechanism(s) of toxicity remain controversial; some author support the idea that the binding of chloroquine to melanin pigments in the retinal pigmented epithelium (RPE) play a major toxic role by concentrating the drug in the eye. In our study, 12 albinos Sprague-Dawley (SD) and 12 pigmented Brown Norway (BN) rats were treated orally for 3 months with chloroquine to compare functional and pathological findings. On Flash electroretinograms (ERG) performed in scotopic conditions, similar and progressive (time-dependent) delayed onset and decreased amplitudes of oscillatory potentials (from Day 71) and b-waves (on Day 92) were identified in both BN and SD rats. In both strains, identical morphological changes consisted of neuronal phospholipidosis associated with UV auto-fluorescence without evidence of retinal degeneration and gliosis; the RPE did not show any morphological lesions or autofluorescence. IHC analyses demonstrated a decrease in GABA expression in the inner nuclear layer. In addition, a marked accumulation of synaptic vesicles coupled with a marked disruption of neurofilaments in the optic nerve fibers was identified. In conclusion, ERG observations were very similar to those described in humans. Comparable ERG modifications, histopathology and immunohistochemistry findings were observed in the retina of both rat strains suggesting that melanin pigment is unlikely involved. chloroquine-induced impairment of synaptic vesicle transport, likely related to disruption of neurofilaments was identified and non-previously reported. This new mechanism of toxicity may also be responsible for the burry vision described in humans chronically treated with chloroquine. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Energente

OpenAIRE

Martínez Juárez, Andrea F.; Hatchett Saldaña, Carlos D.; Vázquez Serrato, Sebastian D.; García Medellín, Harvey; Pineda Guzmán, Ricardo A.

2017-01-01

Consiste en tres infografias diferentes que ilustran e informan sobre alternativas que buscan solventar carencias en servicios y necesidades basicas de comunidades desfavorecidas, en las areas rurales de Mexico

Usher syndrome type 1: early detection of electroretinographic changes.

Science.gov (United States)

Flores-Guevara, Roberto; Renault, Francis; Loundon, Natalie; Marlin, Sandrine; Pelosse, Béatrice; Momtchilova, Martha; Auzoux-Chevé, Monique; Vermersch, Anne Isabelle; Richard, Pascal

2009-11-01

Usher syndrome type 1 needs to be diagnosed at early age in order to timely manage speech therapy, cochlear implantation, and genetic counseling. Few data are available regarding electroretinographic testing before the age of six years. To describe electroretinographic changes in young children with Usher syndrome type 1. Retrospective study of fourteen patients. Age at first neurophysiologic testing was between 17 months and 5 years 4 months. Electroretinogram was performed using flash stimulation in mesopic conditions in the conscious child. Analysis was focused on the amplitudes and latencies of a- and b-waves. Whatever the age, an abnormal fundus was always confirmed with an absent electroretinogram. The youngest patient with absent electroretinogram was 17 month-old. When recorded on and after the 29th month of age, electroretinogram was absent in all cases, including 6 patients with normal fundus. In three patients a low-amplitude electroretinogram was present at first recording within the 26th and 27th months. Electroretinogram showed retinopathy in young children with Usher syndrome type 1, even in the absence of fundoscopic signs of retinal degeneration.

77 FR 27758 - Kinder Morgan Texas Pipeline LLC; Notice of Application

Science.gov (United States)

2012-05-11

... day to 425 MMcf per day. The proposed amendment would allow KMTP to continue to provide Pemex-Gas Y Petroquimica Basica (Pemex) with increased gas supplies as Pemex finishes repairing a damaged pipeline in...

78 FR 38030 - Application for Final Commitment for a Long-Term Loan or Financial Guarantee in Excess of $100...

Science.gov (United States)

2013-06-25

... of U.S. goods and services to be used in Pemex's on- and off-shore oil and gas exploration and.... Guarantor(s): Pemex Exploracion y Produccion; Pemex Refinacion; Pemex Gas y Petroquimica Basica. Description...

Validation of the colour difference plot scoring system analysis of the 103 hexagon multifocal electroretinogram in the evaluation of hydroxychloroquine retinal toxicity.

Science.gov (United States)

Graves, Gabrielle S; Adam, Murtaza K; Stepien, Kimberly E; Han, Dennis P

2014-08-01

To evaluate sensitivity, specificity and reproducibility of colour difference plot analysis (CDPA) of 103 hexagon multifocal electroretinogram (mfERG) in detecting established hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) retinal toxicity. Twenty-three patients taking HCQ were divided into those with and without retinal toxicity and were compared with a control group without retinal disease and not taking HCQ. CDPA with two masked examiners was performed using age-corrected mfERG responses in the central ring (Rc ; 0-5.5 degrees from fixation) and paracentral ring (Rp ; 5.5-11 degrees from fixation). An abnormal ring was defined as containing any hexagons with a difference in two or more standard deviations from normal (colour blue or black). Categorical analysis (ring involvement or not) showed Rc had 83% sensitivity and 93% specificity. Rp had 89% sensitivity and 82% specificity. Requiring abnormal hexagons in both Rc and Rp yielded sensitivity and specificity of 83% and 95%, respectively. If required in only one ring, they were 89% and 80%, respectively. In this population, there was complete agreement in identifying toxicity when comparing CDPA using Rp with ring ratio analysis using R5/R4 P1 ring responses (89% sensitivity and 95% specificity). Continuous analysis of CDPA with receiver operating characteristic analysis showed optimized detection (83% sensitivity and 96% specificity) when ≥4 abnormal hexagons were present anywhere within the Rp ring outline. Intergrader agreement and reproducibility were good. Colour difference plot analysis had sensitivity and specificity that approached that of ring ratio analysis of R5/R4 P₁ responses. Ease of implementation and reproducibility are notable advantages of CDPA. © 2014 Acta Ophthalmologica Scandinavica Foundation. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Estudo normativo do eletrorretinograma de campo total em adultos jovens Normative values for full-field electroretinogram in healthy young adults

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Josenilson Martins Pereira

2003-01-01

Full Text Available OBJETIVOS: A proposta deste estudo é estabelecer valores normativos para o eletrorretinograma (ERG de campo total, em um grupo de voluntários adultos jovens segundo o protocolo padrão recomendado pela Sociedade Internacional de Eletrofisiologia Visual Clínica (ISCEV. MÉTODOS: Participaram deste estudo 42 voluntários normais com idades variando de 15 a 26 anos, sendo 20 homens e 22 mulheres. Os eletrorretinogramas de campo total foram obtidos com eletrodos de lente de contato bipolares e seguiram as 5 etapas do protocolo da Sociedade Internacional de Eletrofisiologia Visual Clinica: a resposta de bastonetes; b reposta máxima; c potenciais oscilatórios; d resposta máxima de cones; e resposta de cones ao flicker 30 Hz. Os parâmetros analisados foram a amplitude de resposta do pico da onda-a até o pico da onda-b (pico a pico em miV e o tempo de culminação da onda-b (ms. RESULTADOS: As médias (± 1 desvio padrão da amplitude pico a pico foram: resposta de bastonetes - 241,1 ± 66,9 µV; resposta máxima - 385,4 ± 71,8 µV; potenciais oscilatórios - 180,6 ± 48,6 µV; resposta de cones -102,8 ± 36,3 µV e flicker 30 Hz - 69,2 ± 26,6 µV. Para o tempo implícito da onda-b os valores foram: resposta de bastonetes - 85,2 ± 7,6 ms; resposta máxima -45,6 ± 2,0ms; resposta de cones - 27,8 ± 1,2ms e flicker 30 Hz - 27,9 ± 1,2 ms. Os resultados foram comparáveis entre os grupos masculino e feminino, exceto para a resposta máxima em que as mulheres obtiveram amplitudes estatisticamente maiores (t=2,06; P=0,046. CONCLUSÃO: Os valores encontrados estão de acordo com dados normativos da literatura e são fundamentais para o diagnóstico correto de disfunções retinianas em pacientes na mesma faixa etária. Inclusão de outras faixas etárias e o aumento no número de sujeitos testados são necessários para estender valores normativos para o eletrorretinograma.PURPOSE: To determine normative data for full-field electroretinogram (ERG

Characterization of the billow applied to Tuxpan, Veracruz; Caracterizacion del oleaje aplicada a Tuxpan, Veracruz

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Rosales Sierra, Victor

1999-07-01

In this work, the criteria for the wave temporal and spectral statistical analysis were reviewed. These analysis are applied to the site Tuxpan, Veracruz, in the Mexican Gulf coast. In the temporal statistic analysis, the high (Rayleigh, Tayfun and Carter) and period (Bretchneider, Cavanie and Longuet-Higgins) theoretic probability distributions are compared with field data from Tuxpan. In the other hand, in the frequency domain analysis, the theoretic spectrums (Bretchneider-Mitsuyasu, Jonswap-Hasselmann, Pierson-Moscowitz, Neumann, ITTC, ISSC, TMA and Ochi-Hubble) are compared with the one obtained from Tuxpan measurements, then changes are made to some spectrums in order to better couple to field data. Finally, some recommendations are made to improve the wave data acquisition and analysis methods. From the study results, it's important to mention that the Tayfun high probability distribution and the Cavanie period probability distribution better fit Tuxpan field data. In the spectral analysis, the Bretchneider spectrum, modified by Mitsuyasu, better coupled to the spectrum obtained from Tuxpan field data. In the temporal statistical analysis, correct the mean level using the parabolic approximation, in order to eliminate the tidal and long period wave effects, it is recommended. For the registered individual wave calculus the zero up cross method was used. [Spanish] En este trabajo se revisan los criterios para el analisis estadisticos temporal y espectral del oleaje, mismos que son aplicados para la caracterizacion del oleaje en Tuxpan, Veracruz. En cuanto al analisis estadistico temporal, se comparan las distribuciones teoricas de probabilidad de altura de Rayleigh, Tayfun y Carter; y las de periodo de Bretchneider, Cavanie y Longuet-Higgins contra las resultantes de las mediciones en campo. Por otro lado y concerniente al analisis en el dominio de la frecuencia, se comparan los espectros teoricos de Bretchneider- Mitsuyasu, Jonswap-Hasselmann, Pierson

Normatização do eletrorretinograma por reversão alternada de padrões em voluntários normais Standardization of pattern electroretinograms by alternate reversion in normal volunteers

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Andréa Mara Simões Torigoe

2003-08-01

Full Text Available OBJETIVO: Realizar a normatização do eletrorretinograma por reversão alternada em indivíduos oftalmologicamente normais e sem doenças neurológicas associadas, determinando a faixa de normalidade estratificada por sexo, faixa etária e estímulo utilizado. MÉTODOS: A padronização seguiu o modelo proposto pela Organização Internacional de Eletrorretinografia e a normatização foi específica para o laboratório de potenciais evocados do Departamento de Neurologia da Faculdade de Ciências Médicas - Universidade Estadual de Campinas. Dois tipos de estímulos foram utilizados: o denominado estímulo 16, que proporciona ângulo visual de 60 minutos de arco e o de 32, que proporciona ângulo visual de 30. RESULTADOS: Em todos os pacientes obteve-se uma onda positiva, definida internacionalmente como P50 e uma negativa, chamada N95, sem a presença de artefatos. Foram observados intervalos de normalidade que continham a média das latências, amplitudes e durações das curvas positiva e negativa, internacionalmente aceitas. As ondas P50 e N95 apresentaram diferenças significativas na amplitude, latência e duração quando comparadas às diversas faixas etárias, ocorrendo diminuição na amplitude das ondas e aumento na latência total do eletrorretinograma com o aumento da idade. Construíram-se tabelas com intervalo de predição de 95% em relação à idade para a amplitude, latência e duração das curvas P50 e N95. CONCLUSÕES: A normatização do eletrorretinograma por reversão alternada proporciona a reprodutibilidade dos resultados e a possibilidade de estudos comparativos.PURPOSE: To standardize recordings of pattern electroretinograms (PERG in normal human subjects. METHODS: The standardization followed the model proposed by the International Organization of Eletroretinography and was specific for the laboratory of evoked potentials of the Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, State University of Campinas

Questioning Mechanisms During Tutoring, Conversation, and Human-Computer Interaction

Science.gov (United States)

1993-06-01

Robert J. Seidel Dept. Psicologia Basica OERI US Army Research Institute Univ. Barcelona 555 New Jersey Ave., NW 5001 Eisenhower Ave. 08028 Barcelona...having a different set of random starting weights in the weight space and running the simulation 10 times. As a crude, but conservative estimate, a GOP

Programa de Fortalecimiento de Capacidades: Reflections on a Case Study of Community-Based Teacher Education Set in Rural Northern Peru

Science.gov (United States)

Alsop, Steve; Ames, Patricia; Arroyo, Graciela Cordero; Dippo, Don

2010-01-01

This article explores distinctive features of a 5-year international education development project set in rural northern Peru (PROMEB, the "Proyecto de Mejoramiento de la Educacion Basica"). Grounded within a partnership between teacher educators from Peru, Mexico and Canada, and rural Peruvian teachers, students and their communities,…

Utilization of basic directives radioprotection norm in industrial radiography services CNEN-3.01

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Dagnino, R.

1989-01-01

The characteristics of the introduction of the standart CNEN - 3.01 - Diretrizes Basicas de Radioprotecao in industrial radiography field, mainly referred to service companies are presented. Some suggestions are proposed in order that the accomplishment of these principles does not stop the works which use this inspection technique. (author)

U.S. SECURITY POLICY IN THE WESTERN HEMISPHERE: Why Colombia, Why Now, and What Is To Be Done?

Science.gov (United States)

2001-06-01

Corrupcion y discomposicion del Estado,” in Federico R. Leon and Ramiro Castro de la Mata, eds., Pasta Basica de Cocaina, Lima, Peru: Centro de...Informacion y educacion para la prevencion de abuso de drogas, 1990, pp. 301-321. For a similar, more recent, and thorough discussion of this issue, see

JPRS Report, Latin America

Science.gov (United States)

1988-03-29

LAM-88-012 29 March 1988 29 CHILE RIUUF.ZAS BASICAS (cobie, pctiolno, carbon, etc.) (7) SERVICIOS PUBLICOS (Chi- lelia, letötoiios. FF.COelc...leaders Jose Alvarez Icaza of the PMS and Alejandro Gascon Mercado of the PRS. On the after- noon of 6 February the meeting participants made a

Calidad de vida y ciudad: análisis del nivel de desarrollo en Bogotá a través del método de necesidades básicas insatisfechas

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Andrés Torres

2013-01-01

Full Text Available Este trabajo evalúa qué variables caracterizan el nivel de desarrollo y calidad de vida de las comunida- des que habitan las localidades de Bogotá. Para lograr este objetivo se recolectó información de 19 de ellas, dentro de las cuales se analizó el indicador compuesto de necesidades básicas insatisfechas (NBI y todos sus indicadores simples. Con la información recolectada se realizaron pruebas de correlación y análisis de componentes principales para evaluar el indicador Condiciones sanitarias deficientes y NBI. Se concluye que para realizar caracterizaciones gruesas en poblaciones como las de Bogotá, el indicador sim- ple Condiciones sanitarias deficientes es suficiente para clasificar la población. Sin embargo, si se quieren realizar caracterizaciones más finas es recomendable obtener también el NBI compuesto.

Synthesis and electrochemical characterization of palladium-based cathode catalysts, resistant to the presence of methanol; Sintesis y caracterizacion electroquimica de catalizadores catodicos base paladio, resistentes a la presencia de metanol

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Salvador, Jose J. [Centro de Investigacion y de Estudios Avanzados del IPN, Mexico D.F. (Mexico)] e-mail: jsalvador@cinvestav.mx; Collins, Virginia H. [Centro de Investigacion en Materiales Avanzados, Chihuahua, Chihuahua (Mexico); Solorza Feria, Omar [Centro de Investigacion y de Estudios Avanzados del IPN, Mexico D.F. (Mexico)

2009-09-15

This work presents the synthesis and characterization of palladium-based electrocatalysts (PdSn and PdPtSn) prepared with the salt-reduction method for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). The compounds obtained are characterized by sweep electron microscopy, electron transmission microscopy and x-ray diffraction of powder. The electrocatalysts obtained had particle sizes less than 10 nm. The evaluation of the catalytic activity of the catalysts was performed using cyclic voltametry and rotating disc electrode. These experiments were conducted in an H{sub 2}SO{sub 4} 0.5 M solution with different methanol concentrations. The presence of methanol improved the catalytic activity of PdSn, but did not show any effect on the PdPtSn alloy. The performance of the DMFC mono cell using PdPtSn as a cathode showed a potential of 10 mW cm{sup -2} at 50 degrees Celsius. [Spanish] En este trabajo se presenta la sintesis y caracterizacion de electrocatalizadores de base Paladio (PdSn y PdPtSn) preparados mediante el metodo de reduccion de sales, para la reaccion de reduccion de oxigeno (RRO). Los compuestos obtenidos se caracterizaron por microscopia electronica de barrido, microscopia electronica de transmision y difraccion de rayos X de polvos. Los electrocatalizadores obtenidos presentaron un tamano de particula menores a 10 nm. La evaluacion de la actividad catalitica de los catalizadores se llevo a cabo mediante voltametria Ciclica y electrodo de disco rotatorio, estos experimentos fueron realizados en una solucion de H{sub 2}SO{sub 4} 0.5 M con diferentes concentraciones de metanol. La presencia de metanol mejoro la actividad catalitica de PdSn, pero no mostro ningun efecto sobre la aleacion PdPtSn. El desempeno de la monocelda de DMFC usando como catodo PdPtSn, mostro una potencia de 10 mW cm{sup -2} a 50 grados centigrados.

ROTRAN 1 - SOLUTION OF EQUATIONS FOR ROTARY TRANSFORMERS

Science.gov (United States)

Salomon, P. M.

1994-01-01

ROTRAN1 is a computer program to calculate the impedance and current gain of a simple transformer. Inputs to the program are primary resistance, primary inductance, secondary (load) resistance, secondary inductance, and mutual inductance. ROTRAN1 was written in BASICA for execution on the IBM PC personal computer. It was written in 1986.

Integración de la biblioteca escolar en el sistema educativo peruano (II)

OpenAIRE

Contreras Contreras, Fortunato

2004-01-01

One briefly describes the situation of the scholastic libraries, the definition of education and the regular basica education of the Peruvian educative system in terminos of learnings in each level. A series of concepts is compiled on the scholastic library and the recomiendaciones of the form to incorporate the scholastic library to the Peruvian educative system.

Effect of glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor on retinal function after experimental branch retinal vein occlusion

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Ejstrup, Rasmus; Dornonville de la Cour, Morten; Kyhn, Maria Voss

2012-01-01

The objective of the study was to investigate the effect of glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) on the multifocal electroretinogram (mfERG) following an induced branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO) in pigs.......The objective of the study was to investigate the effect of glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) on the multifocal electroretinogram (mfERG) following an induced branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO) in pigs....

Nanoparticulas basadas en complejos de Fe(II) con transicion de espin: sintesis, caracterizacion y aplicaciones en electronica molecular

Science.gov (United States)

Monrabal Capilla, Maria

Esta tesis doctoral esta organizada en 5 capitulos y esta destinada al estudio de sistemas de Fe (II) que presentan el fenomeno de la transicion de espin a escala nanometrica. El capitulo 1 contiene una introduccion general sobre materiales moleculares multifuncionales, destacando aquellos ejemplos mas importantes. Por otro lado, se explicara el fenomeno de la transicion de espin, tratando aspectos conceptuales, los antecedentes mas importantes y la situacion actual. En el capitulo 2 se describen los diferentes procesos existentes para la obtencion de diferentes tipos de nanoparticulas. Ademas, se presenta la sintesis y caracterizacion de nanoparticulas del polimero de coordinacion unidimensional [Fe(Htrz)2(trz)]BF4, obtenidas mediante el metodo de micelas inversas. Estas nanoparticulas, con una estrecha distribucion de tamanos centrada alrededor de los 11 nm, presentan una transicion de espin muy abrupta, con un ancho ciclo de histeresis termica de unos 40K. En el capitulo 3 se describe el proceso de modificacion del tamano de las nanoparticulas descritas en el capitulo anterior, llevado a cabo variando la proporcion de surfactante/H2O en el medio. Ademas, con el objetivo de modificar las propiedades magneticas de las nanoparticulas obtenidas en el capitulo 2, se lleva a cabo la sintesis de nanoparticulas de polimeros de la misma familia del [Fe(Htrz)2(trz)]BF4. En concreto se sintetizaron 3 nuevos tipos de nanoparticulas basadas en el polimero [Fe(Htrz)1-x(NH2trz)x](ClO4)2, siendo x = 0.05, 0.15 y 0.3, en cada caso. Estas nanoparticulas siguen presentando una estrecha distribucion de tamanos y una transicion de espin muy abrupta y con un ancho ciclo de histeresis. Ademas, se observa que este ciclo se desplaza a temperaturas mas proximas a la temperatura ambiente a medida que se aumenta el porcentaje de 4-amino-1, 2, 4- triazol en la muestra. Pero al mismo tiempo se produce una disminucion de la anchura de este ciclo. Por ultimo, en este capitulo se presenta la

Integrity of the cone photoreceptor mosaic in oligocone trichromacy

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Michaelides, Michel; Rha, Jungtae; Dees, Elise W

2011-01-01

Oligocone trichromacy (OT) is an unusual cone dysfunction syndrome characterized by reduced visual acuity, mild photophobia, reduced amplitude of the cone electroretinogram with normal rod responses, normal fundus appearance, and normal or near-normal color vision. It has been proposed that these......Oligocone trichromacy (OT) is an unusual cone dysfunction syndrome characterized by reduced visual acuity, mild photophobia, reduced amplitude of the cone electroretinogram with normal rod responses, normal fundus appearance, and normal or near-normal color vision. It has been proposed...

Occult Macular Dystrophy

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Işıl Sayman Muslubaş

2016-04-01

Full Text Available Occult macular dystrophy is an inherited macular dystrophy characterized by a progressive decline of bilateral visual acuity with normal fundus appearance, fluorescein angiogram and full-field electroretinogram. This case report presents a 20-year-old female patient with bilateral progressive decline of visual acuity for six years. Her visual acuity was 3-4/10 in both eyes. Anterior segment and fundus examination, fluorescein angiogram and full-field electroretinogram were normal. She could read all Ishihara pseudoisochromatic plates. Fundus autofluorescence imaging was normal. There was a mild central hyporeflectance on fundus infrared reflectance imaging in both eyes. Reduced foveal thickness and alterations of the photoreceptor inner and outer segment junction were observed by optical coherence tomography in both eyes. Central scotoma was also found by microperimetry and reduced central response was revealed by multifocal electroretinogram in both eyes. These findings are consistent with the clinical characteristics of occult macular dystrophy

Spain and Morocco: The Spanish Enclaves in North Africa, Potential Mediterranean Security Dilemma

Science.gov (United States)

1982-12-01

continued attempts to depoliticize the military, especially the Army. A major difference in Spain from the 1975 period is the rise of the Socialists...to happenings across the Strait in the towns around Algeciras day. Especially Diario de Ceuta gave the impression of close contact between southern...2,000, with 51 teachers; middle school (E.G.B., Educacion General Basica, *Discussion of this area of potential cooperation between the two countries is

El modelo de trabajo en equipo

OpenAIRE

Iñaki Rodríguez Cueto

2008-01-01

El modelo de trabajo en equipo constituye una herramienta basica en cualquier organizacion que quiera conseguir los objetivos propuestos y, ademas, lo quiera conseguir dentro de parametros de eficacia y calidad.En el entorno de la Comunidad Terapeutica cobra mayor importancia el dominio de saber trabajar en equipo debido a la necesidad de conjugar aspectos psico-terapeuticos, educativos, medicos e, incluso, administrativos a la hora de planificar el tratamiento a nivel grupal e individual.El ...

Experiences with a small scale Solar/Wind pilot installation for basic electrification in the chilean altiplano

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Sapiain, Raul; Ovalle, Ricardo; Torres, Ariel; Brockmeyer, Ricarda; Schmidt, Reinhold [Centro de Energias Renovables/Universidad de Tarapaca, Arica, (Chile); Meer, Andreas V. [Solar Institute, Juelich (Germany)

1997-12-31

Basic rural electrification programmes are already carried out in the rural areas of northern Chile by local communities and local governments using photovoltaic systems. Solar Home Systems, 12 VDC are installed for individual households while systems for schools, public lighting etc. are realized with bigger systems, 220 VAC. Within a cooperation with the Solar Institute of the Fachhochschule Juelich, Germany, the Renewable Energy Center of the University of Tarapaca designed, installed and evaluated the first solar/wind hybrid installation for basic electrification in northern Chile, realized in Colpitas, a typical small village in the chilean altiplano. The following paper presents results and experiences of this first pilot installation. [Espanol] Ya se estan llevando a cabo programas de electrificacion rural basica en las areas rurales del Norte de Chile por las comunidades y los gobiernos locales, usando sistemas fotovoltaicos. Se instalan Sistemas Domesticos Solares de 12VDC para casas-habitacion individuales, mientras que los sistemas para escuelas, alumbrado publico, etc., se ejecutan con sistemas mas grandes de 220VAC. Con la coperacion del Instituto Solar de la Fachhochschule en Julich, Alemania, el Centro de Energia Renovable de la Universidad de Tarapaca, diseno, instalo y evaluo, la primera instalacion hibrida solar/viento para electrificacion basica en el Norte de Chile, realizado en Colpitas, un pueblo tipico pequeno del altiplano chileno. El siguiete articulo presenta los resultados y experiencias de esta primera instalacion piloto.

Experiences with a small scale Solar/Wind pilot installation for basic electrification in the chilean altiplano

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Sapiain, Raul; Ovalle, Ricardo; Torres, Ariel; Brockmeyer, Ricarda; Schmidt, Reinhold [Centro de Energias Renovables/Universidad de Tarapaca, Arica, (Chile); Meer, Andreas V [Solar Institute, Juelich (Germany)

1998-12-31

Basic rural electrification programmes are already carried out in the rural areas of northern Chile by local communities and local governments using photovoltaic systems. Solar Home Systems, 12 VDC are installed for individual households while systems for schools, public lighting etc. are realized with bigger systems, 220 VAC. Within a cooperation with the Solar Institute of the Fachhochschule Juelich, Germany, the Renewable Energy Center of the University of Tarapaca designed, installed and evaluated the first solar/wind hybrid installation for basic electrification in northern Chile, realized in Colpitas, a typical small village in the chilean altiplano. The following paper presents results and experiences of this first pilot installation. [Espanol] Ya se estan llevando a cabo programas de electrificacion rural basica en las areas rurales del Norte de Chile por las comunidades y los gobiernos locales, usando sistemas fotovoltaicos. Se instalan Sistemas Domesticos Solares de 12VDC para casas-habitacion individuales, mientras que los sistemas para escuelas, alumbrado publico, etc., se ejecutan con sistemas mas grandes de 220VAC. Con la coperacion del Instituto Solar de la Fachhochschule en Julich, Alemania, el Centro de Energia Renovable de la Universidad de Tarapaca, diseno, instalo y evaluo, la primera instalacion hibrida solar/viento para electrificacion basica en el Norte de Chile, realizado en Colpitas, un pueblo tipico pequeno del altiplano chileno. El siguiete articulo presenta los resultados y experiencias de esta primera instalacion piloto.

PREVALENCIA EN EL CONOCIMIENTO Y USO DE LA ACUPUNTURA EN LA CIUDAD DE MEXICO

OpenAIRE

RUIZ GALINDO, MARIBEL

2009-01-01

LA ACUPUNTURA ES UNO DE LOS PROCEDIMIENTOS MEDICOS MAS ANTIGUOS Y MAS FRECUENTEMENTE USADOS EN EL MUNDO, ORIGINADA EN CHINA HACE MAS DE 2000 ANOS, LA FUENTE MAS TEMPRANA DE LA TEORIA DE LA ACUPUNTURA LA CONSTITUYE EL HUANG DI NEI JING EL PRIMER CANON DEL EMPERADOR AMARILLO, OBRA QUE CONSTA DE DOS PARTES: EL SUWEN QUE SIENTA LAS BASES TEORICAS FUNDAMENTALES DE LA MEDICINA TRADICIONAL CHINA (MTCH) Y EL LINGSHU QUE DISCUTE ESPECIALMENTE LA TEORIA BASICA DE LA ACUPUNTURA. LAS VERSIONES MAS ANTIG...

Fusión vs. cultura organizacional. Lo real y lo virtual

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

William Castillo

2004-01-01

Full Text Available Las organizaciones en las ultimas decadas han presenciado el cambio de concepcion sobre lo que se desean alcanzar dentro del mundo de los negocios, donde se promueven movimientos radicales, estos traen consigo oportunidades y riesgo por enfrentar. Una de las premisas basicas sobre este topico es el desenvolvimiento de las organizaciones en un mercado globalizado, enfrentadas en conflictos internos y externos, generando ademas una variacion en la estrcutura organizacional, cultura empresarial y en la toma de decisiones sobre las estrategias para adaptarse al cambio.

La inclusio?n educativa de nin?os con necesidades educativas especiales en edad preescolar en la ciudad de Cuenca

OpenAIRE

Proan?o A., Margarita; Barros, Mari?a Eugenia; Leo?n, Adriana; Co?rdova, Lorena; Huiracocha, Karina; Juanita, Toral; Piercosimo, Tripaldi

2013-01-01

El Estado ecuatoriano a partir de la puesta en vigencia del curri?culo de educacio?n ba?sica 2010, declara la obligatoriedad de la inclusio?n educativa para las personas con Necesidades Educativas Especiales (NEE). Este proceso de inclusio?n requiere de un nivel adecuado de preparacio?n, de compromiso, de aceptacio?n, de un bagaje de conocimientos te?cnicos y metodolo?gicos, un nivel de sensibilidad hacia las personas con necesidades especiales y, en particular,a los nin?os y nin?as que lo...

Distribui??o de ?gua pot?vel na cidade de Manaus: considera??es sobre os primeiros anos de privatiza??o do Sistema

OpenAIRE

Magalh?es, Julio Cesar Moraes

2004-01-01

A satisfa??o das necessidades basicas de urna popula??o. como saude. Seguran?a, saneamento b?sico, entre outras, e condi??o necessaria para que se possa partir para um processo de desenvolvimento dessa popula??o. Mesmo situada no seio da maior reserva de agua doce do planeta, Manaus ainda conta com um expressivo percentual da popula??o sem acesso a ?gua pot?vel. A Conferencia de Estocolmo (1972), a Agenda 21 na ECO 92 no Rio de Janeiro ou proclama??o da D?cada da ?gua em 1981 pela Confer?n...

Automovimiento y crecimiento como característica de la vida según Leonardo Polo

OpenAIRE

Sanguineti, J.J. (Juan José)

2009-01-01

Este artículo analiza las caracterizaciones de la vida como autopoiesis, autoorganización, sistema complejo organizado, en términos de la visión de Polo de la vida como praxis orgánica. Se consideran especialmente las notas del automovimiento y el crecimiento. El viviente puede entenderse a la luz de la concausalidad como sustancia "más que hilemórfica" en cuanto la forma viviente incorpora el movimiento de un modo intrínseco.

Aspectos epidemiológicos del síndrome de Burnout en personal sanitario

OpenAIRE

Atance Martínez Juan Carlos

1997-01-01

FUNDAMENTOS: El Síndrome Burnout se invoca como probable responsable de la desmotivación que sufren los profesionales sanitarios actualmente. Esto sugiere la posibilidad de que este síndrome esté implicado en las elevadas tasas de absentismo laboral que presentan estos profesionales. El estudio pretende aportar una serie de caracterizaciones de las variables epidemiológicas universales que permitan una aproximación al perfil de riesgo en esta profesión. MÉTODO: Estudiamos una muestra de 294 p...

Bibliografia Especializada: Educacion Basica (Specialized Bibliography: Basic Education).

Science.gov (United States)

Boletin del Centro Nacional de Documentacion e Informacion Educativa, 1971

1971-01-01

This specialized international bibliography on basic education lists almost 50 documents written between 1969 and 1971 in Spanish, French, and Italian on the topic of elementary education. Annotations are provided for nine of the articles. Specific topics range from elementary reading and math education to curriculum planning. (VM)

Diagnostico da tuberculose: atencao basica ou pronto atendimento?

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Rubia Laine de Paula Andrade

2013-12-01

Full Text Available OBJETIVO : Avaliar a qualidade dos serviços de saúde de atenção básica e pronto atendimento quanto ao diagnóstico da tuberculose pulmonar. MÉTODOS : Estudo transversal, com 90 profissionais de saúde da atenção básica e 68 de pronto atendimento de Ribeirão Preto, em 2009. Foi utilizado questionário estruturado com base em um instrumento de avaliação da atenção à tuberculose. Utilizaram-se os testes Qui-quadrado e exato de Fisher (ambos com nível de significância estatística de 5% e a análise de correspondência múltipla para estimar associação entre serviço de saúde e as variáveis de estrutura e processo para o diagnóstico da tuberculose. RESULTADOS : Atenção básica esteve associada à adequada provisão de insumos e recursos humanos, bem como com a solicitação de baciloscopia de escarro. O pronto atendimento associou-se à disponibilidade de equipamento de raio-X, sobrecarga de trabalho e rotatividade de recursos humanos, deficiências na quantidade de profissionais de saúde, disponibilidade de recipiente para coleta de escarro e solicitação baciloscópica de escarro. As ações de diagnóstico permaneceram centradas no médico em ambos os serviços. CONCLUSÕES : Os serviços de pronto atendimento apresentaram fragilidades em sua estrutura para identificar os casos de tuberculose. Lacunas no processo foram identificadas em ambos os serviços de atenção básica e pronto atendimento. É necessária a qualificação dos serviços de saúde que constituem as principais portas de entrada ao sistema de saúde para atender as reformas setoriais que priorizam o diagnóstico oportuno e o controle da tuberculose.

Politica de humanizacao na atencao basica: revisao sistematica

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Carlise Rigon Dalla Nora

2013-12-01

Full Text Available OBJETIVO : Analisar as práticas de humanização na atenção básica na rede pública do sistema de saúde brasileiro com base nos princípios da política nacional de humanização do Brasil. MÉTODOS : Procedeu-se à revisão sistemática da literatura seguida de metassíntese, usando as bases de dados: BDENF (Base de dados da enfermagem, BDTD (Biblioteca digital brasileira de teses e dissertações, CINAHL ( Cumulative Index to nursing and allied health literature , LILACS (Literatura Latino-americana e do Caribe em ciências da saúde, MedLine (Literatura Internacional em ciência da Saúde, PAHO (Biblioteca da Organização Pan-Americana da Saúde e SciELO ( Scientific Electronic Library Online . Foram selecionados os seguintes descritores de assunto: Humanização; Humanização da Assistência; Acolhimento; Cuidado humanizado; Humanização em saúde; Vínculo; Programa de Saúde da Família; Atenção Básica; Saúde Coletiva e Sistema Único de Saúde. Para análise, foram incluídos artigos de pesquisa, estudos de caso, relatos de experiências, dissertações, teses e capítulos de livros, escritos em língua portuguesa, inglesa ou espanhola, publicados de 2003 a 2011. RESULTADOS : Das 4.127 publicações recuperadas sobre o tema, foram avaliadas e incluídas 40, chegando a três categorias centrais. A primeira, infraestrutura e organização dos serviços básicos de saúde, evidenciou insatisfação com a estrutura física e material e com os fluxos de atendimento que podem facilitar ou dificultar o acesso. A segunda refere-se ao processo de trabalho, que apresentou questões relacionadas ao número insuficiente de profissionais, fragmentação dos processos de trabalho, perfil e responsabilização profissional. A terceira consistiu das tecnologias das relações e apontou o acolhimento, vínculo, escuta, respeito e diálogo com os usuários. CONCLUSÕES : Embora muitas práticas sejam citadas como humanizadoras, não conseguem produzir mudanças nos serviços de saúde por falta de uma análise mais aprofundada nos processos de trabalho e de uma educação permanente no serviço.

Structural solution to the problem of differential settlement of the Venta de Carpio surface piping; Solucion estructural al problema de hundimientos diferenciales en las tuberias superficiales de Venta de Carpio

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Vilar R, J Ivan; Espejel V, Eduardo; Melchor G, Nicolas; Alanis V, Armandina; Munoz B, Celso J; Avendano P, Lorenzo; Alvarado G, Alonso [Instituto de Investigaciones Electricas, Cuernavaca, Morelos (Mexico)

2004-07-01

The Venta de Carpio Terminal (TVC) is located in the municipality of Acolman, State of Mexico, with geographical coordinates 19 37' of Northern latitude, 98 58' Western longitude and an altitude of 2,283 m over the mean sea level. This terminal is one of the points of greater importance in the system of fuels transport and gas distribution so much as of PEMEX Gas y Petroquimica Basica (PGPB) as of PEMEX Refinacion (PR). The zone where the TVC is located presents a regional collapse due to the extraction of the subsoil water, which can cause damages to this terminal piping systems. As a solution to this problem it is proposed a process of re-lay the foundations of the supports for the mentioned piping systems. [Spanish] La Terminal Venta de Carpio (TVC) se localiza en el municipio de Acolman, Estado de Mexico, con coordenadas geograficas 19 37' de latitud Norte, 98 58' longitud Oeste y una altura de 2,283 m sobre el nivel medio del mar. Esta terminal es uno de los puntos de mayor importancia en el sistema de transporte y distribucion de energeticos tanto de Pemex Gas y Petroquimica Basica (PGPB) como de Pemex Refinacion (PR). La zona donde se ubica la TVC presenta un hundimiento regional debido a la extraccion del agua del subsuelo, lo que puede ocasionar danos a las tuberias de esta terminal. Como solucion a este problema se propone un proceso de recimentacion de los soportes para las tuberias mencionadas.

Structural solution to the problem of differential settlement of the Venta de Carpio surface piping; Solucion estructural al problema de hundimientos diferenciales en las tuberias superficiales de Venta de Carpio

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Vilar R, J. Ivan; Espejel V, Eduardo; Melchor G, Nicolas; Alanis V, Armandina; Munoz B, Celso J; Avendano P, Lorenzo; Alvarado G, Alonso [Instituto de Investigaciones Electricas, Cuernavaca, Morelos (Mexico)

2004-07-01

The Venta de Carpio Terminal (TVC) is located in the municipality of Acolman, State of Mexico, with geographical coordinates 19 37' of Northern latitude, 98 58' Western longitude and an altitude of 2,283 m over the mean sea level. This terminal is one of the points of greater importance in the system of fuels transport and gas distribution so much as of PEMEX Gas y Petroquimica Basica (PGPB) as of PEMEX Refinacion (PR). The zone where the TVC is located presents a regional collapse due to the extraction of the subsoil water, which can cause damages to this terminal piping systems. As a solution to this problem it is proposed a process of re-lay the foundations of the supports for the mentioned piping systems. [Spanish] La Terminal Venta de Carpio (TVC) se localiza en el municipio de Acolman, Estado de Mexico, con coordenadas geograficas 19 37' de latitud Norte, 98 58' longitud Oeste y una altura de 2,283 m sobre el nivel medio del mar. Esta terminal es uno de los puntos de mayor importancia en el sistema de transporte y distribucion de energeticos tanto de Pemex Gas y Petroquimica Basica (PGPB) como de Pemex Refinacion (PR). La zona donde se ubica la TVC presenta un hundimiento regional debido a la extraccion del agua del subsuelo, lo que puede ocasionar danos a las tuberias de esta terminal. Como solucion a este problema se propone un proceso de recimentacion de los soportes para las tuberias mencionadas.

Data transfer from Beckman LS 5800 liquid scintillation counters to IBM personal computers.

Science.gov (United States)

Maan, A C

1985-09-01

This communication describes a short routine in BASICA for the IBM-PC, written to collect data from a Beckman liquid scintillation counter. In the form presented here the routine converts incoming bytes into separate lines and saves these lines in a file. There are many possible applications for further use of the data in these files. A few suggestions are given as to the format in which data can be stored and how to process these data automatically after all samples have been counted. The only hardware needed is an asynchronous communications adapter for the IBM-PC and an RS232 cable.

Data supporting Boyes et al., Neurotoxicology 53, 257-270, 2016

Data.gov (United States)

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency — Visual evoked potential data from rats exposed to toluene Electroretinogram data from rats exposed to toluene Counts of rod and m-cone photoreceptor cells in retinas...

STRUCTURAL AND FUNCTIONAL CHARACTERIZATION OF BENIGN FLECK RETINA USING MULTIMODAL IMAGING.

Science.gov (United States)

Neriyanuri, Srividya; Rao, Chetan; Raman, Rajiv

2017-01-01

To report structural and functional features in a case series of benign fleck retina using multimodal imaging. Four cases with benign fleck retina underwent complete ophthalmic examination that included detailed history, visual acuity, and refractive error testing, FM-100 hue test, dilated fundus evaluation, full field electroretinogram, fundus photography with autofluorescence, fundus fluorescein angiography, and swept-source optical coherence tomography. Age group of the cases ranged from 19 years to 35 years (3 males and 1 female). Parental consanguinity was reported in two cases. All of them were visually asymptomatic with best-corrected visual acuity of 20/20 (moderate astigmatism) in both the eyes. Low color discrimination was seen in two cases. Fundus photography showed pisciform flecks which were compactly placed on posterior pole and were discrete, diverging towards periphery. Lesions were seen as smaller dots within 1500 microns from fovea and were hyperfluorescent on autofluorescence. Palisading retinal pigment epithelium defects were seen in posterior pole on fundus fluorescein angiography imaging; irregular hyper fluorescence was also noted. One case had reduced cone responses on full field electroretinogram; the other three cases had normal electroretinogram. On optical coherence tomography, level of lesions varied from retinal pigment epithelium, inner segment to outer segment extending till external limiting membrane. Functional and structural deficits in benign fleck retina were picked up using multimodal imaging.

CARACTERIZACIÓN FENOLÓGICA DE BOSQUES TROPICALES CADUCIFOLIOS USANDO INFORMACIÓN ESPECTRAL: EXPERIMENTOS CON COMPONENTES

OpenAIRE

Marcos Casiano; Fernando Paz

2014-01-01

La caracterización de la fenología de la vegetación, particularmente la asociada a los bosques tropicales caducifolios, permite predecir los impactos del cambio climático y de los intercambios de carbono y agua entre la atmósfera y la vegetación, por lo que es importante modelarla. Existen diferentes métodos experimentales para caracterizar la fenología de la vegetación, sin embargo, el uso de sensores remotos permite caracterizaciones fenológicas de bajo costo y eficientes. No obstante lo an...

Marco para el análisis del tema ecológico en la literatura venezolana

OpenAIRE

María De los Ángeles Martín Hernández

2016-01-01

El propósito del artículo es sistematizar las premisas teóricas que constituyen la base fundamental para el abordaje analítico de los textos literarios con tema ecológico. Se conjugan y sintetizan los planteamientos hallados en la revisión bibliográfica realizada, relacionados con definiciones y caracterizaciones de la vinculación actividad literaria-tema ecológico en el contexto venezolano; se organizan consideraciones que explican la adopción del adjetivo “ecológico” y las vinculaciones eco...

Leopoldo María Panero: enfermedad mental y literatura

OpenAIRE

Sánchez Bustos, Sergio Augusto

2012-01-01

Un estudio de la vida y obra del poeta Leopoldo María Panero, ha sido realizado, acentuando la búsqueda de caracterizaciones, textos, representaciones y su devenir biográfico de manera de configurar un discurso y una biografía de Leopoldo María Panero, enfatizando en sus textos la búsqueda de relaciones con la enfermedad mental. Mediante el estudio de la vida y obra del poeta se pretende contribuir a comprender sin prejuicios y críticamente los usos sociales del concepto de enfermedad mental ...

Extracellular electrical activity from the photoreceptors of midge

Indian Academy of Sciences (India)

Unknown

349. Keywords. Chironomus; electroretinogram; insect development; midge; photoreceptor ... ceran insects, only larval ocelli of mosquito (Family: Culi- cidae) have been ... and Ball (1995) studied the influence of light in Chiro- nomus tentans ...

Comparison of human expert and computer-automated systems using magnitude-squared coherence (MSC) and bootstrap distribution statistics for the interpretation of pattern electroretinograms (PERGs) in infants with optic nerve hypoplasia (ONH).

Science.gov (United States)

Fisher, Anthony C; McCulloch, Daphne L; Borchert, Mark S; Garcia-Filion, Pamela; Fink, Cassandra; Eleuteri, Antonio; Simpson, David M

2015-08-01

Pattern electroretinograms (PERGs) have inherently low signal-to-noise ratios and can be difficult to detect when degraded by pathology or noise. We compare an objective system for automated PERG analysis with expert human interpretation in children with optic nerve hypoplasia (ONH) with PERGs ranging from clear to undetectable. PERGs were recorded uniocularly with chloral hydrate sedation in children with ONH (aged 3.5-35 months). Stimuli were reversing checks of four sizes focused using an optical system incorporating the cycloplegic refraction. Forty PERG records were analysed; 20 selected at random and 20 from eyes with good vision (fellow eyes or eyes with mild ONH) from over 300 records. Two experts identified P50 and N95 of the PERGs after manually deleting trials with movement artefact, slow-wave EEG (4-8 Hz) or other noise from raw data for 150 check reversals. The automated system first identified present/not-present responses using a magnitude-squared coherence criterion and then, for responses confirmed as present, estimated the P50 and N95 cardinal positions as the turning points in local third-order polynomials fitted in the -3 dB bandwidth [0.25 … 45] Hz. Confidence limits were estimated from bootstrap re-sampling with replacement. The automated system uses an interactive Internet-available webpage tool (see http://clinengnhs.liv.ac.uk/esp_perg_1.htm). The automated system detected 28 PERG signals above the noise level (p ≤ 0.05 for H0). Good subjective quality ratings were indicative of significant PERGs; however, poor subjective quality did not necessarily predict non-significant signals. P50 and N95 implicit times showed good agreement between the two experts and between experts and the automated system. For the N95 amplitude measured to P50, the experts differed by an average of 13% consistent with differing interpretations of peaks within noise, while the automated amplitude measure was highly correlated with the expert measures but was

Synthesis and characterization of PdAg as a catalyst for oxygen reduction reaction in acid medium; Sintesis y caracterizacion de PdAg como catalizador para la reaccion de reduccion de oxigeno en medio acido

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Martinez-Casillas, D. C.; Vazquez-Huerta, G.; Solorza-Feria, O. [Centro de Investigacion y de Estudios Avanzados del IPN, Mexico D.F. (Mexico)]. E-mail: dcmartinez@cinvestav.mx

2009-09-15

This work presents the synthesis of the binary compound PdAg and the electrochemical characterization for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) in acid medium. The catalyst is obtained from the reduction of Pd(NO{sub 3}){sub 2}·2H{sub 2}O and AgNO{sub 3} with NaBH{sub 4} in THF. The synthesized compound was physically characterized with transmission electron microscopy (TEM), sweep electron microscopy (SEM) and x-ray diffraction (XRD) of powder. Electrochemical studies were conducted to determine the catalytic activity and intrinsic properties of the PdAg material for the ORR in acid medium using cyclic voltamperometry (CV), rotary disc electrode (RDE) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) in a solution of H{sub 2}SO{sub 4} 0.5 M at 25 degrees Celsius. The electrochemical current-potential responses were compared to those of palladium and platinum. The kinetic results showed an increase in the performance of the bimetallic electrocatalyst containing Ag as compared to pure Pd, but less than that obtained with nanometric Pt. The Tafel slopes obtained are roughly120 mV dec-1, similar to that reported for Pt and Pd and for other Ru-based electrocatalysts. [Spanish] En este trabajo se presentan la sintesis del compuesto binario PdAg y su caracterizacion electroquimica para la reaccion de reduccion de oxigeno (RRO) en medio acido. El catalizador se obtuvo a partir de la reduccion de Pd(NO{sub 3}){sub 2}·2H{sub 2}O y AgNO{sub 3} con NaBH{sub 4} en THF. El compuesto sintetizado se caracterizo fisicamente por microscopia electronica de transmision (MET), microscopia electronica de barrido (MEB) y difraccion de rayos X (DRX) de polvos. Se realizaron estudios electroquimicos para determinar la actividad catalitica y las propiedades intrinsecas del material de PdAg para la reaccion de reduccion de oxigeno (RRO) en medio acido, utilizando las tecnicas de voltamperometria ciclica (VC), electrodo disco rotatorio (EDR) y espectroscopia de impedancia electroquimica (EIE), en

Long term survival of a patient with the cerebro-hepato-renal (Zellweger) syndrome

NARCIS (Netherlands)

Bleeker-Wagemakers, E. M.; Oorthuys, J. W.; Wanders, R. J.; Schutgens, R. B.

1986-01-01

A 13-year-old girl with severe mental retardation, tapetoretinal degeneration, an extinguished electroretinogram and sensoneurinal hearing loss is described. In early life the diagnosis of Zellweger (cerebro-hepato-renal) syndrome was considered because of hypotonia, craniofacial dysmorphia,

眼底无可见视网膜病变的糖尿病患者多焦视网膜电图特征%The characteristics of multifocal electroretinogram in diabetic patients without retinopathy

Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China (English)

刘东伟; 徐国旭; 卜曙旸; 黄江; 杨焕

2009-01-01

Objective To evaluate the effect ofmuitifocai electroretinogram (mf-ERG)in detecting the early retinal abnormalities in diabetic patients without retinopathy.Methods mf-ERG were recorded on each eye of 30 normal control subjects(56 eyes)and 32 diabetic patients without retinopathy(58 eyes).The amplitude and implicit time of each local retinal response were derived and compared between the control and diabetics without retinopathy.Results In diabetic patients without retinopathy,the implicit time of b wave were increased significantly except to ring 0 and inferior-temporal quadrant,the overall amplitudes of a wave and b wave and response densities of b wave were reduced in central two rings and superior-temporal quadrant (P <0.05).Conclusion The early changes of retinal function in diabetic eyes without retinopathy can be detected objectively and quantitatively by the mf-ERG even before retinopathy.%目的 检测眼底无视网膜病变糖尿病患者的多焦视网膜电图(multifocol electmretinogram, mf-ERG),评价其在糖尿病患者早期视网膜功能改变中的作用.方法 应用mf-ERG检测30例(56只眼)正常对照组和32名(58只眼)无眼底镜下可查见的视网膜病变的糖尿病患者.对两组mf-ERG中a波和b波的潜伏期、振幅总和以及b波的振幅密度进行分析比较.结果 在糖尿病组,除0环和颞下象限之外.b波的潜伏期均明显延迟,而a波和b波振幅总和及b波的振幅密度减低主要集中在黄斑周围区域(0～1环)和颞上象限,差别有统计学意义(P<0.05).结论 mf-ERG能在DR出现之前客观定量地评定视网膜功能的变化程度和范围.

Decentralized electrification of an isolated town by means of photovoltaic solar energy; Electrificacion descentralizada de una poblacion aislada mediante energia solar fotovoltaica

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Horn, Manfred [Universidad Nacional de Energia, Lima (Peru)

1997-12-31

The insular community of Taquile in the Titicaca Lake is performing a pilot project of domiciliary electrification with photovoltaic systems. The project wants to evaluate the feasibility of a basic rural electrification with photovoltaic systems based in private initiatives, under the frame of the free market economy, in vogue in Peru. [Espanol] En la comunidad insular de Taquile en el Lago Titicaca se esta ejecutando un proyecto piloto de electrificacion domiciliaria con sistemas fotovoltaicos. El proyecto quiere evaluar la posibilidad de una electrificacion rural basica con sistemas fotovoltaicos en base a iniciativas privadas, dentro del marco de la economia de mercado libre, vigente en el Peru.

Decentralized electrification of an isolated town by means of photovoltaic solar energy; Electrificacion descentralizada de una poblacion aislada mediante energia solar fotovoltaica

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Horn, Manfred [Universidad Nacional de Energia, Lima (Peru)

1998-12-31

The insular community of Taquile in the Titicaca Lake is performing a pilot project of domiciliary electrification with photovoltaic systems. The project wants to evaluate the feasibility of a basic rural electrification with photovoltaic systems based in private initiatives, under the frame of the free market economy, in vogue in Peru. [Espanol] En la comunidad insular de Taquile en el Lago Titicaca se esta ejecutando un proyecto piloto de electrificacion domiciliaria con sistemas fotovoltaicos. El proyecto quiere evaluar la posibilidad de una electrificacion rural basica con sistemas fotovoltaicos en base a iniciativas privadas, dentro del marco de la economia de mercado libre, vigente en el Peru.

X linked progressive cone dystrophy. Localisation of the gene locus to Xp21-p11.1 by linkage analysis

NARCIS (Netherlands)

Meire, F. M.; Bergen, A. A.; de Rouck, A.; Leys, M.; Delleman, J. W.

1994-01-01

Six affected males, three female carriers, and two possible carriers were evaluated from a three generation pedigree with X linked progressive cone dystrophy. The affected males presented with progressive decrease of visual acuity, impairment of colour vision, and deterioration of electroretinogram,

The multifocal electroretinogram (mfERG) in the pig

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Voss Kyhn, Maria; Kiilgaard, Jens Folke; Lopez, Ana Garcia

2007-01-01

To establish a method allowing multifocal electroretinography (mfERG) recording with simultaneous fundus monitoring on anaesthetized pigs. In addition we characterize the peaks of the porcine mfERG trace, and compare the visual streak area with the optic nerve head, a known non-response area....... Finally we illustrate the feasibility of the method by performing mfERG after an induced laser burn in the visual streak....

Usher syndrome and cochlear implantation.

Science.gov (United States)

Loundon, Natalie; Marlin, Sandrine; Busquet, Denise; Denoyelle, Françoise; Roger, Gilles; Renaud, Francis; Garabedian, Erea Noel

2003-03-01

To evaluate the symptoms leading to diagnosis and the quality of rehabilitation after cochlear implantation in Usher syndrome. Retrospective cohort study. ENT department of a tertiary referral hospital. Among 210 patients given an implantation in the Ear, Nose, and Throat department, 185 were congenitally deaf and 13 had Usher syndrome (7.0%). Five had a family history of Usher, and eight were sporadic cases. Eleven cases were Usher type I, one was Usher type III, and one was not classified. The age at implantation ranged from 18 months to 44 years (mean, 6 years 1 month). The mean follow-up was 52 months (range, 9 months to 9 years). All patients had audiophonological and clinical examination, computed tomography scan of the temporal bones, ophthalmologic examination with fundoscopy, and an electroretinogram. Cerebral magnetic resonance imaging and vestibular examination were performed in 9 of 13 and 10 of 13 cases, respectively. Logopedic outcome measured preimplant and postimplant closed- and open-set word recognition and oral expression at follow-up. The most frequent initial sign of Usher syndrome was delayed walking, with a mean age of 20 months. Among the 172 other congenitally deaf children with implants, when deafness was not associated with other neurologic disorders, the mean age at walking was 14 months (p < 0.001). The fundoscopy was always abnormal after the age of 5 years, and the electroretinogram was abnormal in all cases. Vestibular function was abnormal in all but one case (nonclassified). The computed tomography scan and the magnetic resonance imaging were always normal. Logopedic results with cochlear implants showed good perception skills in all but one case. The best perceptive results were obtained in children implanted before the age of 9 years. Oral language had significantly progressed in 9 of 13 at follow-up. There was no relation between the visual acuity and the logopedic results. The earliest clinical sign associated with deafness

Characterization of the voltage control systems and speed of a synchronous machine of high power for short circuit testing; Caracterizacion de los sistemas de control de voltaje y velocidad de una maquina sincrona de alta potencia para pruebas de corto circuito

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Segura Ozuna, Victor Octavio; Hernandez Rodriguez, Isaura Victoria; Alcaide Godinez, Indira Xochiquetzal; Garduno Ramirez, Raul; Montero Cervantes, Julio Cesar [Instituto de Investigaciones Electricas, Cuernavaca, Morelos (Mexico); Ruiz Rodriguez, Genaro; Martinez Torres; Ricardo [CFE-LAPEM, Irapuato, Guanajuato (Mexico)

2012-07-01

This paper introduces a characterization of the behavior of the speed and voltage control systems of a special purpose synchronous machine (GCC) based on measuring and monitoring physical signals, and recording of the sampled waveforms. Basically, the GCC supplies the energy to perform high-power short-circuits tests to certify electrical equipment and components, as required by the Comision Federal de Electricidad (CFE) in Mexico. The GCC operates alternately as motor and generator. With the GCC operating as motor, speed control during startup, acceleration, re-acceleration and braking is carried out by a static frequency converter (SFC). Complementary, the voltage controller manipulates excitation power to control terminal voltage when the GCC operates as generator and regulates excitation current when the GCC operates as motor. Compared to conventional voltage regulation systems, which must go off in case of short-circuit, the GCC voltage regulator must keep controlling field excitation to maintain the required line current and terminal voltage during short-circuit tests. Monitoring of physical signals was carried out with a portable data acquisition system based on SCXI and PXI digital platforms. A total of 78 signals were monitored with a 6 kHz sampling rate that was enough to obtain detailed signal waveforms. Data captured was processed and plotted for analysis. The signal graphs show the current real behavior of both, the voltage control system and the speed control system, and constitute a precise characterization of their behavior. [Spanish] Este documento presenta una caracterizacion del comportamiento de los sistemas de control de velocidad y voltaje de una maquina sincrona de proposito especial (GCC) basada en la medicion y monitoreo de senales fisicas, asi como en el registro de las formas de onda muestreadas. Basicamente, la GCC suministra la energia para efectuar pruebas de corto circuito de alta potencia para certificar equipo y componentes

Light Modulates Ocular Complications in an Albino Rat Model of Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus.

Science.gov (United States)

Andrawus, Elias; Veildbaum, Gizi; Zemel, Esther; Leibu, Rina; Perlman, Ido; Shehadeh, Naim

2017-07-01

The purpose of the study was to assess potential interactions of light exposure and hyperglycemia upon ocular complications in diabetic rats. Streptozotocin-induced (STZ-induced) diabetic rats ( N = 39) and non-diabetic rats ( N = 9) were distributed into eight groups according to the irradiance and color of the light phase during the 12/12-hour light/dark regime. Follow-up lasted 90 days and included assessment of cataract development and electroretinogram (ERG) recordings. Stress to the retina was also assessed by glial fibrillary acidic protein immunocytochemistry. Cataract development was fast in diabetic rats that were exposed to unattenuated white light or to bright colored lights during the light phase. Diabetic rats that were kept under attenuated brown or yellow light during the light phase exhibited slower rate of cataract development. Electroretinogram responses indicated very severe retinal damage in diabetic rats kept under bright colored lights in the blue-yellow range or bright white light during the light phase. Electroretinogram damage was milder in rats kept under bright red light or attenuated yellow or brown light during the light phase. Glial fibrillary acidic protein expression in retinal Müller cells was consistent with ERG assessment of retinal damage. Attenuating white light and filtering out short wavelengths have a protective effect on the eyes of diabetic rats as evident by slower rate of cataract formation and a smaller degree of retinal damage. Our findings suggest that special glasses attenuating light exposure and filtering out short wavelengths (400-530 nm) may be beneficial for diabetic patients.

Retinal processing and opponent mechanisms mediating ultraviolet polarization sensitivity in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss)

NARCIS (Netherlands)

Ramsden, Samuel D.; Anderson, Leslie; Mussi, Martina; Kamermans, Maarten; Hawryshyn, Craig W.

2008-01-01

A number of teleost fishes have photoreceptor mechanisms to detect linearly polarized light. We studied the neuronal mechanism underlying this ability. It was found that a polarized signal could be detected in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) both in the electroretinogram (ERG) and in the

A regulatory model for conformity evaluation in natural gas building installations; Um modelo regulatorio para avaliacao da conformidade das instalacoes prediais de gas natural

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Fossa, Alberto Jose; Santos, Edmilson Moutinho dos [Universidade de Sao Paulo (USP), SP (Brazil). Inst. de Eletrotecnica e Energia

2008-07-01

The challenge of the Brazilian growth needs to consider necessarily the energy arrangements, and natural gas has relevant participation in this matter. The possibility of its end use that make possible an effective adequacy of our energy matrix must be supported by modern concepts of quality and conformity. In this particular, the program of 'Tecnologia Industrial Basica' (TIB), including concepts and application of conformity evaluation processes, is considered basic for the construction of a consistent gas market. This paper present the Brazilian reality related to TIB aspects and elements, from which it constructs a technician and regulatory building gas installations model proposal for a conformity evaluation program in the country. (author)

[Sex-linked juvenile retinoschisis].

Science.gov (United States)

François, P; Turut, P; Soltysik, C; Hache, J C

1976-02-01

About 13 observations of sexe linked juvenile retinoschisis, the authors describe the ophthalmoscopic, fluorographic and functional aspects of the disease whose caracteristics are:--its sexe linked recessive heredity; --its clinical characterestics associating: a microcystic macular degeneration, peripheral retinal lesions, vitreous body alterations, --an electroretinogram of the negative type.

多焦视网膜电图检测糖尿病早期视功能的变化%Early changes of retinal function in diabetic patients detected by multifocal electroretinogram

Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China (English)

王梅; 蓝育青; 刘嫣芬; 郭慧; 夏朝霞; 周自立

2005-01-01

目的:了解多焦视网膜电图(mfERG)在糖尿病患者早期视功能的变化规律.方法:将所有被检者分为正常对照组(33例)、糖尿病无视网膜病变组(63例)以及单纯期糖尿病视网膜病变组(43例).采用mfERG对上述3组进行检测,比较3组mfERG一阶反应N1波与P1波的潜伏期与反应密度.结果:在糖尿病无视网膜病变组中,N1波与P1波反应密度低于正常对照组,异常范围位于环1-环3.其中P1波反应密度在单纯期糖尿病视网膜病变组中进一步降低.N1波与P1波的潜伏期在糖尿病无视网膜病变组中的变化无统计学意义,在糖尿病视网膜病变组中延长,异常范围扩大到环4与环5.结论:mfERG在糖尿病视网膜病变出现之前已发生异常变化,且能够定量地反映随着病情的进展,视功能的损害程度及范围.%AIM: To investigate the early changes of retinal function in diabetic patients detected by multifocal electroretinogram (mfERG).METHODS: The first-order kernel responses of mfERG were recorded from eyes of 33 normal control subjects,63 diabetic patients without retinopathy and 43 diabetic patients with background retinopathy. The response densities and implicit times of N1 and P1 were compared among the control, diabetic patients without retinopathy and diabetic patients with retinopathy.RESULTS: The response densities of N1 and P1 in central 3 rings were reduced significantly in diabetic eyes with and without retinopathy. And the implicit times of N1 and P1 were delayed significantly only in diabetic eyes with retinopathy.CONCLUSION: mfERG can detect the early changes of retinal function quantitatively in diabetic patients. Analysis of response densities and implicit times of N1 and P1 can reflect the progress of local retinal dysfunction in diabetes.

Synthesis and characterization of cobalt oxide and titanium mixtures using mechanical alloying and its response to oxygen reduction; Sintesis y caracterizacion de mezclas de oxidos de cobalto y titanio por aleado mecanico y su respuesta para la reduccion de oxigeno

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Basurto S, R.; Bonifacio-Martinez, J.; Fernandez, S.M [Instituto Nacional de Investigaciones Nucleares, Ocoyoacac, Estado de Mexico (Mexico)]. E-mail: rafael.basurto@inin.gob.mx

2009-09-15

The synthesis of Co{sub 3}O{sub 4} and CoTiO{sub 3} oxides was conducted using mechanical alloying and combustion. Co{sub 3}O{sub 4} used was obtained using a SPEX ball mill with cobalt nitrate, Co(NO{sub 3})36H{sub 2}O plus urea, CH{sub 4}N{sub 2}O, in a molar ratio of 1:1 and a ball weight ratio of 1:4 with grinding times of 2.5 hours in an argon atmosphere. The material obtained after alloying underwent combustion at 400 degrees Celsius and 500 degrees Celsius, obtaining oxides of mixed cobalt valence. This material was mixed with TiO{sub 2} with a weight ratio of 1:1 and was mechanically alloyed with a ball weight ratio of 1:8; grinding was performed for 2.5 hours in argon atmosphere and it underwent combustion at 800 degrees Celsius. Characterization was performed using x-ray diffraction, low-vacuum sweep electron microscopy and EDS. The electrochemical performance was obtained in a galvanostat-potentiostat (Princenton Applied Research modelo 273). Both materials present electrocatalytic activity for oxygen reduction reaction in alkaline medium. [Spanish] La sintesis de los oxidos: Co{sub 3}O{sub 4} y CoTiO3 se realizo por la tecnica de aleado mecanico y combustion. El Co{sub 3}O{sub 4} utilizado, se obtuvo por con un molino de bolas SPEX, utilizando nitrato de cobalto, Co(NO{sub 3})36H{sub 2}O mas urea, CH{sub 4}N{sub 2}O, en una relacion molar 1:1.y una relacion en peso de bolas de 1:4 con tiempos de molienda de 2.5 horas, en atmosfera de argon, al termino del aleado el material obtenido se llevo a combustion a 400 grados centigrados y 500 grados centigrados, obteniendose el oxido de valencia mixta de cobalto. Este material se mezclo con TiO{sub 2}, en una relacion en peso de 1:1 y se aleo mecanicamente, con una relacion en peso de bolas de 1:8, por 2.5 horas de molienda en atmosfera de argon y llevandolo a combustion a 800 grados centigrados. La caracterizacion se hizo por: Difraccion de Rayos X, Microscopia Electronica de Barrido de Bajo Vacio y EDS El

Institutos Nacionales de Ciencia y Tecnología en Brasil: Diferenciación funcional e innovación basada en investigación

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Guilherme Brandão

2016-01-01

Full Text Available El texto tiene por objeto discutir los Institutos Nacionales de Ciencia y Tecnología brasileños (INCTs en el contexto de la sociedad funcionalmente diferenciada Latinoamericana. El texto describe el estado del arte de la innovación, en ese contexto, caracterizará los INCTs en el ámbito del pensamiento sistémico ap licado a la innovación, señalando las consecuencias que resultan de estas caracterizaciones para la Política Pública aplicada a la ciencia, tecnología e innovación (Políticas Públicas aplicado a CTI. El texto concluye con la necesidad de rediscutir y prof undizar la operacionalidad de los INCTs.

Electrophysiological Monitoring in Patients With Tumors of the Skull Base Treated by Carbon-12 Radiation Therapy

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Carozzo, Simone [Department of Neuroscience, Ophthalmology, and Genetics, University of Genova, Genova (Italy); Schardt, Dieter [Department of Biophysics, GSI Helmholtzzentrum für Schwerionenforschung, Darmstadt (Germany); Narici, Livio [Department of Physics, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome (Italy); Combs, Stephanie E.; Debus, Jürgen [Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg (Germany); Sannita, Walter G., E-mail: wgs@dism.unige.it [Department of Neuroscience, Ophthalmology, and Genetics, University of Genova, Genova (Italy); Department of Psychiatry, State University of New York, Stony Brook, New York (United States)

2013-03-15

Purpose: To report the results of short-term electrophysiologic monitoring of patients undergoing {sup 12}C therapy for the treatment of skull chordomas and chondrosarcomas unsuitable for radical surgery. Methods and Materials: Conventional electroencephalogram (EEG) and retinal and cortical electrophysiologic responses to contrast stimuli were recorded from 30 patients undergoing carbon ion radiation therapy, within a few hours before the first treatment and after completion of therapy. Methodologies and procedures were compliant with the guidelines of the International Federation for Clinical Neurophysiology and International Society for Clinical Electrophysiology of Vision. Results: At baseline, clinical signs were reported in 56.6% of subjects. Electrophysiologic test results were abnormal in 76.7% (EEG), 78.6% (cortical evoked potentials), and 92.8% (electroretinogram) of cases, without correlation with neurologic signs, tumor location, or therapy plan. Results on EEG, but not electroretinograms and cortical responses, were more often abnormal in patients with reported clinical signs. Abnormal EEG results and retinal/cortical responses improved after therapy in 40% (EEG), 62.5% (cortical potentials), and 70% (electroretinogram) of cases. Results on EEG worsened after therapy in one-third of patients whose recordings were normal at baseline. Conclusions: The percentages of subjects whose EEG results improved or worsened after therapy and the improvement of retinal/cortical responses in the majority of patients are indicative of a limited or negligible (and possibly transient) acute central nervous system toxicity of carbon ion therapy, with a significant beneficial effect on the visual pathways. Research on large samples would validate electrophysiologic procedures as a possible independent test for central nervous system toxicity and allow investigation of the correlation with clinical signs; repeated testing over time after therapy would demonstrate, and may

Disease course in patients with autosomal recessive retinitis pigmentosa due to the USH2A gene.

Science.gov (United States)

Sandberg, Michael A; Rosner, Bernard; Weigel-DiFranco, Carol; McGee, Terri L; Dryja, Thaddeus P; Berson, Eliot L

2008-12-01

To estimate the mean rates of ocular function loss in patients with autosomal recessive retinitis pigmentosa due to USH2A mutations. In 125 patients with USH2A mutations, longitudinal regression was used to estimate mean rates of change in Snellen visual acuity, Goldmann visual field area (V4e white test light), and 30-Hz (cone) full-field electroretinogram amplitude. These rates were compared with those of previously studied cohorts with dominant retinitis pigmentosa due to RHO mutations and with X-linked retinitis pigmentosa due to RPGR mutations. Rates of change in patients with the Cys759Phe mutation, the USH2A mutation associated with nonsyndromic disease, were compared with rates of change in patients with the Glu767fs mutation, the most common USH2A mutation associated with Usher syndrome type II (i.e., retinitis pigmentosa and hearing loss). Mean annual exponential rates of decline for the USH2A patients were 2.6% for visual acuity, 7.0% for visual field area, and 13.2% for electroretinogram amplitude. The rate of acuity loss fell between the corresponding rates for the RHO and RPGR patients, whereas the rates for field and ERG amplitude loss were faster than those for the RHO and RPGR patients. No significant differences were found for patients with the Cys759Phe mutation versus patients with the Glu767fs mutation. On average, USH2A patients lose visual acuity faster than RHO patients and slower than RPGR patients. USH2A patients lose visual field and cone electroretinogram amplitude faster than patients with RHO or RPGR mutations. Patients with a nonsyndromic USH2A mutation have the same retinal disease course as patients with syndromic USH2A disease.

Characterization of the interaction layer in diffusion couples U-Mo-Zr/Al and U-Mo-Zr/Al-A356 at 550 C degrees; Caracterizacion de la zona de interaccion en pares de difusion a 550 grados C U-Mo-Zr/Al y U-Mo-Zr/Al-A356

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Komar Varela, Carolina; Arico, Sergio; Mirandou, Marcela; Balart, Silvia; Gribaudo, Luis [Comision Nacional de Energia Atomica, General San Martin (Argentina). Dept. de Materiales; com, carolinakomar@gmail

2007-07-01

Out-of-pile diffusion experiments were performed between U-7 wt.% Mo-1 wt.% Zr and Al or Al A356 (7,1 wt.% Si) at 550 C degrees. In this work morphological characterization and phase identification on both interaction layers are presented. They were carried out by the use of different techniques: optical and scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction and WDS microanalysis. In the interaction layer U-7 wt.% Mo-1 wt.% Zr/Al, the phases UAl{sub 3}, UAl{sub 4}, Al{sub 20}Mo{sub 2}U and Al{sub 43}Mo{sub 4}U{sub 6} were identified. Similar results in the interaction layer of the U-7 % Mo/Al at 580 C degrees were previously obtained. In the interaction layer U-7 wt.% Mo-1 wt.% Zr/Al A356, the phases U(Al,Si){sub 3} with 25 at.% Si and Si{sub 5}U{sub 3} were identified. This last phase, with a higher Si concentration, was identified with X-ray diffraction synchrotron radiation performed at the National Synchrotron Light Laboratory, Campinas, Brazil. (author) [Spanish] Se realizaron experiencias fuera de reactor en pares de difusion quimica U-7 % Mo-1 % Zr/Al y U-7 % Mo-1 % Zr/Al A356. En este trabajo se presentan los resultados de la caracterizacion morfologica e identificacion de fases presentes en la zona de interaccion que se forma al ser sometidos a un tratamiento isotermico de 1,5 h a 550 grados C. Las tecnicas utilizadas fueron: microscopia optica y electronica de barrido, difraccion de rayos X y microanalisis cuantitativo por sonda electronica. En la zona de interaccion correspondiente al par U-7 % Mo-1 % Zr/Al se identificaron las fases UAl{sub 3}, UAl{sub 4}, Al{sub 20}Mo{sub 2}U y Al{sub 43}Mo{sub 4}U{sub 6}. Estas cuatro fases fueron identificadas en pares U-7 % Mo/Al a 580 grados C en trabajos anteriores. En la zona de interaccion correspondiente al par U-7 % Mo-1 % Zr/Al A356 se identificaron las fases U(Al,Si){sub 3} (con una concentracion de 25 %at.Si) y Si{sub 5}U{sub 3}. Este compuesto rico en Si solo pudo ser identificado mediante la utilizacion de

La representación del alumno violento en el discurso mediático

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Virginia Saez

2016-12-01

Full Text Available El presente trabajo se focaliza en los discursos mediáticos del fenómeno de las violencias en las escuelas en Argentina. Dadas las características del objeto de indagación, el abordaje metodológico fue cualitativo y la información se analizó en el marco del análisis socioeducativo del discurso. Entre los resultados obtenidos, observamos que en las formas de designar al alumno violento se destacan dos dimensiones para caracterizar a los jóvenes: la dimensión emotiva y la dimensión estética. Por su originalidad, este estudio constituye un antecedente para futuras indagaciones sobre las caracterizaciones de los jóvenes vinculados con la violencia en el espacio escolar

Standardization of pattern electroretinograms by alternate reversion in normal volunteers

OpenAIRE

Torigoe, Andréa Mara Simões; Quagliato, Elizabeth M. A. B.; Torigoe, Marcelo; Carvalho, Keila Mirian Monteiro de

2003-01-01

OBJETIVO: Realizar a normatização do eletrorretinograma por reversão alternada em indivíduos oftalmologicamente normais e sem doenças neurológicas associadas, determinando a faixa de normalidade estratificada por sexo, faixa etária e estímulo utilizado. MÉTODOS: A padronização seguiu o modelo proposto pela Organização Internacional de Eletrorretinografia e a normatização foi específica para o laboratório de potenciais evocados do Departamento de Neurologia da Faculdade de Ciências Médicas - U...

Design, construction and characterization of a rural solar furnace; Diseno, construccion y caracterizacion de un horno solar rural

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Hernandez Luna, Gabriela

2001-06-15

centigrade, followed of the condition using 6 liters of oil, in which a maximum temperature of 115 centigrade was obtained and in the tests with 6 liters of water as load a maximum temperature of 95 centigrade was registered. In these tests the temperature of the oil surpasses 60 centigrade during an approximate period of 7 hours and is higher than 80 centigrade by a lapse of 5 hours. The water temperature is higher than 60 centigrade for a period of more than 5 hours and during 3 hours is higher than 80 centigrade. These results are satisfactory, because they assure the accomplishment of the process of baking inside the furnace. A calculation program was elaborated to implement the theoretical model of the concentration. This program reads the data of radiation intensity in the horizontal plane supplied by the weather station of the CIE and determines the incident radiation in the furnace collector. The theoretical model of the thermal behavior was implemented in another computer program; this program reads the data of the incident radiation in the collector of the furnace and the data of room temperature and calculates the temperature of the furnace as a time function. The model overestimates the temperature reached in the furnace, nevertheless reproduces qualitatively the thermal behavior of the same. In spite of the limitations of the theoretical model, this can be of utility in achieving the reproduction of the temperature of the load experimentally registered, through an effective coefficient of heat losses and an effective coefficient of heat capacity, characteristic of each one of the conditions of the test. [Spanish] Esta tesis presenta el diseno, construccion y caracterizacion de un horno solar tipo caja para su uso en comunidades rurales en la zona intertropical. El trabajo presentado en esta tesis parte del diseno opto-geometrico de un horno solar tipo caja propuesto por un entusiasta grupo de jovenes estudiantes (Acosta et al., 1996, Vazquez et al., 1998

The competitive forces of the natural gas industry of Mexico; Las fuerzas competitivas de la industria del gas natural de Mexico

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Buendia Servin de la Mora, Neil Spar [Facultad de Ingenieria, UNAM (Mexico)

1997-07-01

The present paper is intended to identify the structural characteristics of the natural gas national industry, that determines the intensity of the forces in competition. To know the ambient where PEMEX-Gas and Basic Petrochemistry will compete, the distributors and the partnerships formed by national and foreign companies is fundamental, since the forces that affect the market determine the attractiveness of the industry, the gain margins, investments, et cetera. [Spanish] En el presente trabajo se pretende identificar las caracteristicas estructurales de la industria nacional del gas natural, que determinan lo intenso de las fuerzas en competencia. Conocer el ambiente en donde competiran PEMEX-Gas y Petroquimica Basica, las distribuidoras nacionales y los consorcios formados por empresas nacionales y extranjeras es primordial, puesto que las fuerzas que inciden al mercado determinan el atractivo de la industria, los margenes de ganancia, inversiones, etcetera.

Optimization process for thin-walled high performance concrete sandwich panels

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Hodicky, Kamil; Hulin, Thomas; Schmidt, Jacob Wittrup

2014-01-01

with the specifications of the design constrains and variables. The tool integrates the processes of HPCSP design, quantity take-off and cost estimation into a single system that would provide different costs for different HPCSP designs. The proposed multi-objective optimisation scheme results into derivation of basic......A Nearly zero energy buildings are to become a requirement as part of the European energy policy. There are many ways of designing nearly zero energy buildings, but there is a lack of knowledge on optimization processes in the sense of structurally and thermally efficient design with an optimal...... economical solution. The present paper aims to provide multi-objective optimisation procedure addressed to structural precast thin-walled High Performance Concrete Sandwich Panels (HPCSP). The research aim is concerned with developing a tool that considers the cost of HPCSP materials along...

Muertes de mujeres y violencia social en tres entidades de la frontera norte de México

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Felipe Mora Arellano

2014-01-01

Full Text Available Las muertes de mujeres con presunción de homicidio en México tuvieron un fuerte ascenso a partir de 2007, cuando el gobierno federal declaró la guerra al narcotráfico. En los estados de Chihuahua, Nuevo León y Tamaulipas, donde se llevaron a cabo operativos militares, aquéllas se incrementaron sin que se tenga hasta ahora una explicación contundente, sólo aproximaciones. El propósito del presente trabajo es describir ciertos elementos del contexto socioeconómico donde ocurrieron las defunciones femeninas con presunción de homicidio, en los ámbitos estatal y municipal, y lograr ciertas caracterizaciones de las áreas geográficas donde sucedieron las muertes, teniendo como telón de fondo el marco de violencia social.

Characterization of clay minerals; Caracterizacion de minerales arcillosos

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Diaz N, C.; Olguin, M.T.; Solache R, M.; Alarcon H, T.; Aguilar E, A. [Gerencia de Ciencias Basicas, Direccion de Investigacion Cientifica, Instituto Nacional de Investigaciones Nucleares, A.P. 18-1027, 11801 Mexico D.F. (Mexico)

2002-07-01

The natural clays are the more abundant minerals on the crust. They are used for making diverse industrial products. Due to the adsorption and ion exchange properties of these, a great interest for developing research directed toward the use of natural clays for the waste water treatment has been aroused. As part of such researches it is very important to carry out previously the characterization of the interest materials. In this work the results of the mineral and elemental chemical composition are presented as well as the morphological characteristics of clay minerals from different regions of the Mexican Republic. (Author)

X-linked dominant cone-rod degeneration: linkage mapping of a new locus for retinitis pigmentosa (RP 15) to Xp22.13-p22.11.

OpenAIRE

McGuire, R E; Sullivan, L S; Blanton, S H; Church, M W; Heckenlively, J R; Daiger, S P

1995-01-01

Retinitis pigmentosa is the name given to a heterogeneous group of hereditary retinal degenerations characterized by progressive visual field loss, pigmentary changes of the retina, abnormal electroretinograms, and, frequently, night blindness. In this study, we investigated a family with dominant cone-rod degeneration, a variant form of retinitis pigmentosa. We used microsatellite markers to test for linkage to the disease locus and excluded all mapped autosomal loci. However, a marker from ...

Revision curricular a partir de un analisis comparativo de las discrepancias en los curriculos de una escuela de optometria en Puerto Rico con las competencias requeridas para las agencias de revalida y acreditacion 2004

Science.gov (United States)

Rivera Pacheco, Andres

El proposito de esta investigacion, un estudio cualitativo de caso, fue comparar y contrastar el curriculo vigente de la Escuela de Optometria de la UIAPR con las competencias y estandares requeridos por las agencias de acreditacion y de revalida. Con este proposito, decidimos realizar una revision y un analisis de documentos: el prontuario de cada uno de los cursos de los curriculos implantados en el 1993 y en el 2001; las competencias y estandares establecidos por las agencias de revalida y de acreditacion; y las estadisticas en las que se analiza el porcentaje de estudiantes que aprueban cada una de las partes de los examenes de revalida entre el 1998 al 2003. Se realizaron entrevistas dirigidas para dar apoyo y complementar la revision y el analisis de estos documentos. Los participantes de las entrevistas fueron tres estudiantes de la clase de optometria del 2004 (ultima clase del curriculo del 1993); tres estudiantes de la clase de optometria del 2005 (primera clase graduanda del curriculo vigente) y tres profesores y/o directores de los Departamentos de Ciencias Basicas, Ciencias Clinicas y Cuidado al Paciente. Esta investigacion se enmarco en el modelo de evaluacion curricular de discrepancia de Malcolm Provus y en el modelo de desarrollo basado en competencias. Uno de los hallazgos mas importantes del estudio es que los cambios que se implantaron al curriculo del 2001 no han logrado que los estudiantes mejoren su ejecucion en los examenes de revalida. Por otro lado, se encontro que el curriculo vigente atiende completamente los estandares de la practica de Optometria, pero no las competencias. Esta informacion fue validada mediante el uso de una tabla de cotejo para el analisis de los cursos y de la informacion obtenida de las entrevistas. El estudio determina y concluye que existen discrepancias entre los prontuarios de los cursos del curriculo y las competencias requeridas por la agencia de revalida. Segundo, que el Departamento de Ciencias Basicas es el

[Multifocal Electroretinography in Patients with Poppers Maculopathy].

Science.gov (United States)

Pahlitzsch, Milena; Salchow, Daniel; Rossel, Mirjam; Bergholz, Richard

2017-10-12

Background Maculopathy is a potential side effect of amyl nitrite or "poppers" abuse. It is characterized by a sudden, painless decrease in visual acuity. While the funduscopic changes are subtle, optical coherence tomography shows alterations of the outer retinal layers in the fovea. However, the extent of retinal dysfunction remains poorly understood. Materials/Methods We compared the multifocal electroretinogram of 6 patients with poppers maculopathy to that of a control group consisting of 6 healthy subjects. Response densities and implicit times of N1 and P1 were analyzed. Results Response densities and implicit times of both N1 and P1 were lower in the patients with poppers maculopathy than in the control group, particularly in ring 1 and rings 4 and 5. The only statistically significant finding, however, was a reduced N1 response density of one hexagon in the patient group. No significant differences were found considering the sum response or the averaged rings 1 to 5. Conclusion Compared to a healthy control group, the multifocal electroretinogram of patients with poppers maculopathy shows no relevant impairment. This contrasts the marked effect of the disease on visual acuity. In clinical practice, poppers maculopathy cannot be diagnosed by multifocal electroretinography. Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.

Spontaneous occurrence of a potentially night blinding disorder in guinea pigs.

Science.gov (United States)

Racine, Julie; Behn, Darren; Simard, Eric; Lachapelle, Pierre

2003-07-01

Several hereditary retinal disorders such as retinitis pigmentosa and congenital stationary night blindness compromise, sometimes exclusively, the activity of the rod pathway. Unfortunately, there are few animal models of these disorders that could help us better understand the pathophysiological processes involved. The purpose of this report is to present a pedigree of guinea pigs where, as a result of a consanguineous mating and subsequent selective breeding, we developed a new and naturally occurring animal model of a rod disorder. Analysis of the retinal function with the electroretinogram reveals that the threshold for rod-mediated electroretinograms (ERGs) is significantly increased by more than 2 log-units compared to that of normal guinea pigs. Furthermore, in response to a suprathreshold stimulus, also delivered under scotopic condition, which yield a mixed cone-rod response in normal guinea pigs, the ERG waveform in our mutant guinea pigs is almost identical (amplitude and timing of a- and b-waves) to that evoked in photopic condition. The above would thus suggest either a structural (abnormal development or absence) or a functional deficiency of the rod photoreceptors. We believe that our pedigree possibly represents a new animal model of a night blinding disorder, and that this condition is inherited as anautosomal recessive trait in the guinea pig population.

Systematic Review of Randomized Clinical Trials on Safety and Efficacy of Pharmacological and Nonpharmacological Treatments for Retinitis Pigmentosa

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Marta Sacchetti

2015-01-01

Full Text Available Aims. Several treatments have been proposed to slow down progression of Retinitis pigmentosa (RP, a hereditary retinal degenerative condition leading to severe visual impairment. The aim of this study is to systematically review data from randomized clinical trials (RCTs evaluating safety and efficacy of medical interventions for the treatment of RP. Methods. Randomized clinical trials on medical treatments for syndromic and nonsyndromic RP published up to December 2014 were included in the review. Visual acuity, visual field, electroretinogram, and adverse events were used as outcome measures. Results. The 19 RCTs included in this systematic review included trials on hyperbaric oxygen delivery, topical brimonidine tartrate, vitamins, docosahexaenoic acid, gangliosides, lutein, oral nilvadipine, ciliary neurotrophic factor, and valproic acid. All treatments proved safe but did not show significant benefit on visual function. Long term supplementation with vitamin A showed a significantly slower decline rate in electroretinogram amplitude. Conclusions. Although all medical treatments for RP appear safe, evidence emerging from RCTs is limited since they do not present comparable results suitable for quantitative statistical analysis. The limited number of RCTs, the poor clinical results, and the heterogeneity among studies negatively influence the strength of recommendations for the long term management of RP patients.

Dopamine D2 receptors preferentially regulate the development of light responses of the inner retina

Science.gov (United States)

Tian, Ning; Xu, Hong-ping; Wang, Ping

2014-01-01

Retinal light responsiveness measured via electroretinography undergoes developmental modulation and is thought to be critically regulated by both visual experience and dopamine. The primary goal of this study is to determine whether the dopamine D2 receptor regulates the visual experience-dependent functional development of the retina. Accordingly, we recorded electroretinograms from wild type mice and mice with a genetic deletion of the gene that encodes the dopamine D2 receptor raised under normal cyclic light conditions and constant darkness. Our results demonstrate that mutation of the dopamine D2 receptors preferentially increases the amplitude of the inner retinal light responses evoked by high intensity light measured as oscillatory potentials in adult mice. During postnatal development, all three major components of electroretinograms, the a-wave, b-wave and oscillatory potentials, increase with age. Comparatively, mutation of the dopamine D2 receptors preferentially reduces the age-dependent increase of b-waves evoked by low intensity light. Light deprivation from birth reduces the amplitude of b-waves and completely diminishes the increased amplitude of oscillatory potentials. Taken together, these results demonstrate that the dopamine D2 receptor plays an important role in the activity-dependent functional development of the mouse retina. PMID:25393815

Impairment of visual function and retinal ER stress activation in Wfs1-deficient mice.

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Delphine Bonnet Wersinger

Full Text Available Wolfram syndrome is an early onset genetic disease (1/180,000 featuring diabetes mellitus and optic neuropathy, associated to mutations in the WFS1 gene. Wfs1-/- mouse model shows pancreatic beta cell atrophy, but its visual performance has not been investigated, prompting us to study its visual function and histopathology of the retina and optic nerve. Electroretinogram and visual evoked potentials (VEPs were performed in Wfs1-/- and Wfs1+/+ mice at 3, 6, 9 and 12 months of age. Fundi were pictured with Micron III apparatus. Retinal ganglion cell (RGC abundance was determined from Brn3a immunolabeling of retinal sections. RGC axonal loss was quantified by electron microscopy in transversal optic nerve sections. Endoplasmic reticulum stress was assessed using immunoglobulin binding protein (BiP, protein disulfide isomerase (PDI and inositol-requiring enzyme 1 alpha (Ire1α markers. Electroretinograms amplitudes were slightly reduced and latencies increased with time in Wfs1-/- mice. Similarly, VEPs showed decreased N+P amplitudes and increased N-wave latency. Analysis of unfolded protein response signaling revealed an activation of endoplasmic reticulum stress in Wfs1-/- mutant mouse retinas. Altogether, progressive VEPs alterations with minimal neuronal cell loss suggest functional alteration of the action potential in the Wfs1-/- optic pathways.

Integrity of the cone photoreceptor mosaic in oligocone trichromacy

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Michaelides, Michel; Rha, Jungtae; Dees, Elise W

2011-01-01

Oligocone trichromacy (OT) is an unusual cone dysfunction syndrome characterized by reduced visual acuity, mild photophobia, reduced amplitude of the cone electroretinogram with normal rod responses, normal fundus appearance, and normal or near-normal color vision. It has been proposed that these...... that these patients have a reduced number of normal functioning cones (oligocone). This paper has sought to evaluate the integrity of the cone photoreceptor mosaic in four patients previously described as having OT....

[Tapeto-retinal degeneration combined with incomplete general albinism (author's transl)].

Science.gov (United States)

Ivandić, T

1975-05-01

Report on a family, which presented the rare autosomal dominant transmitted, incomplete general albinism associated with autosomal recessive inherited, diffuse tapeto-retinal degeneration "sine pigmento". hypopigmentation of skin, eyebrows and hair, blue iris and fundus albinoticus with hypoplasia of the macula. In 3 cases additionally appeared: waxy pallor of optic disc, vascular narrowing, reflexless hypoplastic macula, pigmentless periphery, acquired blue-yellow blindness, concentric limitation of the visual field, reduced darkadaptation, abolished electroretinogram and myopic astigmatism.

Prototype study of characterization of the impact that produces the diffuser of an industrial discharge into the sea water; Estudio prototipo de caracterizacion del impacto que produce el difusor de una descarga industrial sobre el medio marino

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Ortiz Gallarza, S. M.; Gil Zurita, A.; Garcia Hernandez, R.; Vergara Mendez, S.; Garcia Leal, M. L. [Universidad Autonoma Metropolitana, Mexico, D.F. (Mexico)

2000-09-01

impact. [Spanish] Para establecer limites maximos permisibles de contaminantes descargados en el mar por vertimientos antropogenicos, las autoridades involucradas en la proteccion y reglamentacion ambiental han fijado caracteristicas particulares de descarga a cada empresa. Ademas de cuidar que no se excedan los niveles establecidos, debe evaluarse el efecto de estas sustancias sobre el medio. En este contexto, se realizan estudios interdisciplinarios integrales de caracterizacion del impacto en el medio marino a causa de las industrias. Una de ellas, la cual vierte al litoral noroeste del golfo de Mexico mediante un difusor submarino, solicito un primer estudio de este genero. En este estudio prototipo se efectuaron estimaciones fisicas, quimicas, biologicas y geologicas en una red de 49 estaciones en seis transectos posicionados a bordo de una embarcacion y con teodolitos desde la costa a cinco niveles (superficie, 4, 8, 12 y 16 m de profundidad) y durante lluvias, secas y nortes. Se determinaron metales pesados en agua, sedimentos, organismos y muestras combinadas de la descarga. Se relacionaron mediciones continuas de corrientes, salinidad y temperatura en las boquillas del difusor a partir de registros de dos corrientimetros S4 InterOcean. Con vuelos en helicopteros se registraron las variaciones de desplazamiento de la pluma de contaminantes en diversas condiciones climaticas. Se adquirieron imagenes del satelite LANDSAT TM para obtener informacion de diferentes regiones del espectro electromagnetico y para corroborar observaciones sobre el comportamiento de la pluma de descarga. Ademas de los metodos convencionales para graficacion y manejo de la informacion, se empleo visualizacion tridimensional, la cual permitio interpretar patrones estacionales y de difusion. Por los excelentes resultados obtenidos con esta metodologia, se presenta a la consideracion de los especialistas este estudio como un prototipo para la determinacion de impacto en ambientes marinos

Modeling and identification for the adjustable control of generation processes; Modelado e identificacion para el control autoajustable de procesos de generacion

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Ricano Castillo, Juan Manuel; Palomares Gonzalez, Daniel [Instituto de Investigaciones Electricas, Cuernavaca (Mexico)

1990-12-31

The recursive technique of the method of minimum squares is employed to obtain a multivariable model of the self regressive mobile mean type, needed for the design of a multivariable, self-adjustable controller self adjustable multivariable. In this article the employed technique and the results obtained are described with the characterization of the model structure and the parametric estimation. The convergency velocity curves are observed towards the parameters` numerical values. [Espanol] La tecnica recursiva del metodo de los minimos cuadrados se emplea para obtener un modelo multivariable de tipo autorregresivo de promedio movil, necesario para el diseno de un controlador autoajustable muitivariable. En el articulo, se describe la tecnica empleada y los resultados obtenidos con la caracterizacion de la estructura del modelo y la estimacion parametrica. Se observan las curvas de la velocidad de convergencia hacia los valores numericos de los parametros.

Modeling and identification for the adjustable control of generation processes; Modelado e identificacion para el control autoajustable de procesos de generacion

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Ricano Castillo, Juan Manuel; Palomares Gonzalez, Daniel [Instituto de Investigaciones Electricas, Cuernavaca (Mexico)

1989-12-31

The recursive technique of the method of minimum squares is employed to obtain a multivariable model of the self regressive mobile mean type, needed for the design of a multivariable, self-adjustable controller self adjustable multivariable. In this article the employed technique and the results obtained are described with the characterization of the model structure and the parametric estimation. The convergency velocity curves are observed towards the parameters` numerical values. [Espanol] La tecnica recursiva del metodo de los minimos cuadrados se emplea para obtener un modelo multivariable de tipo autorregresivo de promedio movil, necesario para el diseno de un controlador autoajustable muitivariable. En el articulo, se describe la tecnica empleada y los resultados obtenidos con la caracterizacion de la estructura del modelo y la estimacion parametrica. Se observan las curvas de la velocidad de convergencia hacia los valores numericos de los parametros.

La educación a distancia: una perspectiva crítica

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Edith Litwin

1993-06-01

Full Text Available En este capítulo nos proponemos revisar la educación a distancia desde esta perspectiva, porque entendemos que el crecimiento de la modalidad necesita, además de sus consideraciones o caracterizaciones,un análisis que le permita encontrar nuevas respuestas y definiciones. No se trata de señalar limitaciones descartando posibilidades para la educación a distancia. Esa sería una propuesta de trabajo llevada a cabo desde el sentido común. Se trata, en cambio, de recoger los resultados de diferentes investigadores en el campo, las experiencias de las implementaciones de programas o proyectos en la modalidad y los resultados de investigaciones evaluativas. A la luz de la teoría y la práctica, revisar lo dicho y hecho con el objeto de encontrar una nueva manera de crecer.

Estudo exploratorio da qualidade do ar em escolas de educacao basica, Coimbra, Portugal

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Ana Maria Conceicao Ferreira

2013-12-01

Full Text Available OBJETIVO : Analisar a qualidade do ar em escolas de educação básica e suas condições estruturais e funcionais. MÉTODOS : Foi avaliada a qualidade do ar de 51 escolas (81 salas de aula de educação básica da cidade de Coimbra, Portugal, tanto na parte interior das salas como na exterior, durante as quatro estações do ano, de 2010 a 2011. Foram avaliadas a temperatura (Tº, umidade relativa (Hr, concentrações de monóxido de carbono (CO, dióxido de carbono (CO 2 , ozona (O 3 , dióxido de nitrogênio (NO 2 , dióxido de enxofre (SO 2 , compostos orgânicos voláteis (COV, formaldeído e material particulado (PM 10 , de novembro de 2010 a fevereiro de 2011 (outono/inverno e de março de 2011 a junho de 2011 (primavera/verão. Procedeu-se ao preenchimento de uma grelha de caracterização das condições estruturais e funcionais das escolas. Aplicaram-se os testes estatísticos t- Student para amostras emparelhadas e o teste t de Wilcoxon. RESULTADOS : Em 47 escolas, as concentrações médias de CO 2 encontravam-se acima da concentração máxima de referência (984 ppm mencionada na legislação portuguesa. Os valores máximos de concentração encontrados no interior das salas foram críticos, principalmente no outono/inverno (5.320 ppm. As concentrações médias de COV e de PM 10 no interior ultrapassaram a concentração máxima de referência legislada em algumas escolas. Não foram detetados valores relevantes (risco de CO, formaldeído, NO 2 , SO 2 e O 3 . CONCLUSÕES : Houve maior concentração de poluentes no interior das salas, comparativamente com o exterior. A inadequada ventilação está associada à elevada concentração de CO 2 nas salas de aula.

Mortalidade infantil evitavel e barreiras de acesso a atencao basica no Recife, Brasil

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Lygia Carmen de Moraes Vanderlei

2013-06-01

Full Text Available OBJETIVO: Analisar os fatores que influenciam na mortalidade infantil evitável na perspectiva dos protagonistas envolvidos. MÉTODOS: Estudo qualitativo crítico-construtivista de análise do acesso das crianças à atenção e à mortalidade infantil evitável por ações e serviços no Distrito Sanitário I do Recife, PE, entre fevereiro de 2007 e fevereiro de 2008. Desenhou-se amostra teórica em duas etapas: I instituições prestadoras de serviços de saúde infantil; II informantes: gestores (11; profissionais da Estratégia de Saúde da Família e do Programa de Agentes Comunitários de Saúde (48; profissionais das policlínicas (12, mães (20, com tamanho definido por saturação dos discursos. Foram realizadas entrevistas individuais semiestruturadas e estudo de caso de óbito infantil evitável. Utilizou-se análise temática de conteúdo com geração mista de categorias (emergentes e roteiro. RESULTADOS: Houve posições de conflito entre grupos de atores, refletindo o papel desempenhado na rede assistencial. Os participantes institucionais relacionavam os óbitos infantis à ausência/má divulgação das políticas de saúde infantil e das ações intersetoriais; profissionais e mães destacaram dificuldades de acesso por insuficiência global de recursos, principalmente a falta de médicos na Estratégia de Saúde da Família, deslocando a assistência para enfermeiras. Ausência de médicos, rechaço às doenças agudas, atenção desumanizada e/ou de má qualidade técnica foram os principais fatores relacionados aos óbitos pelas mães. Os participantes da Estratégia de Saúde da Família, do Programa de Agentes Comunitários de Saúde e mães identificaram a condição de exclusão social e negligência materna com os óbitos enquanto o estudo de caso de óbito mostrou sua associação à baixa qualidade da atenção ofertada. CONCLUSÕES: Numerosas barreiras de acesso apontam a insuficiente implantação do Sistema Único de Saúde e falta de resolubilidade da principal porta de entrada, a Estratégia de Saúde da Família. Melhorias dos fatores estruturais e organizacionais da oferta são necessárias, sobretudo mecanismos de incentivo à contratação de médicos para a Estratégia de Saúde da Família e de formação/capacitação profissional da equipe compatível com o modelo de atenção para o cumprimento das políticas de atenção à saúde da criança e prevenção das mortes infantis evitáveis.

Research reactor fuel bundle design review by means of hydrodynamic testing; Ensayos hidrodinamicos para verificacion de diseno de un elemento combustible para reactores de investigacion

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Pastorini, A; Belinco, C [Comision Nacional de Energia Atomica, San Martin (Argentina). Centro Atomico Constituyentes

1998-12-31

During the design steps of a fuel bundle for a nuclear reactor, some vibration tests are usually necessary to verify the prototype dynamical response characteristics and the structural integrity. To perform these tests, the known hydrodynamic loop facilities are used to evaluate the vibrational response of the bundle under the different flow conditions that may appear in the reactor. This paper describes the tests performed on a 19 plate fuel bundle prototype designed for a low power research reactor. The tests were done in order to know the dynamical characteristics of the plates and also of the whole bundle under different flow rate conditions. The paper includes a description of the test facilities and the results obtained during the dynamical characterization tests and some preliminary comments about the tests under flowing water are also presented. (author) 4 refs., 12 figs., 4 tabs. [Espanol] Durante el diseno de un elemento combustible para un reactor nuclear se requiere de la realizacion de ensayos con el objeto de verificar el comportamiento de ese diseno y permitir, de ser necesario, la introduccion de modificaciones al mismo. Para verificar las caracteristicas de respuesta dinamica e integridad estructural, se realizan ensayos de vibraciones que incluyen someter al prototipo a condiciones de circulacion del fluido similares a las que soportara durante la operacion del reactor. Estos ensayos se realizan en facilidades de ensayos conocidas como circuitos hidrodinamicos, que permiten no solo someter el prototipo al flujo de fluido, sino tambien obtener una adecuada caracterizacion de la respuesta del mismo a traves del luso de sensores de distinto tipo. En este trabajo se describen los ensayos realizados sobre un prototipo de elemento combustible de 19 placas destinado a un reactor de investigacion multiproposito de baja potencia. Los ensayos tuvieron como objetivo conocer la respuesta dinamica de las placas individuales y del elemento combustible en su

Association between Asymptomatic Unilateral Internal Carotid Artery Stenosis and Electrophysiological Function of the Retina and Optic Nerve

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Anna Machalińska

2017-01-01

Full Text Available Purpose. This study was designed to assess retinal and optic nerve bioelectrical function in patients with unilateral asymptomatic but hemodynamically significant internal carotid artery stenosis (ICAS. Methods. Forty-two subjects with a diagnosis of unilateral ICAS and 34 controls were analyzed. Full-field electroretinogram (ERG, pattern electroretinogram (PERG, and pattern visual-evoked potentials, as well as optical coherence tomography and ophthalmological examination, were performed. Data analysis included eyes ipsilateral to ICAS (EIS and eyes contralateral to ICAS (ECS. Results. Intraocular pressure was significantly decreased in EIS and ECS compared to that in the controls. In the macula, both the cube average thickness and cube volume values were significantly reduced both in EIS and ECS compared to those in the controls. Similarly, PERG P50 and N95 wave amplitudes were significantly smaller in EIS and ECS compared to those in the controls. The ERG rod b-wave and rod-cone a-wave amplitudes were decreased, and implicit times were significantly prolonged, whereas the OP wave index was reduced in EIS compared to that in the controls. No differences in IOP, OCT, or ERG and PERG parameters were identified between EIS and ECS. Conclusions. Our study demonstrated that retinal bioelectrical function is negatively affected by ICAS despite the absence of objective clinical signs and symptoms of ocular ischemia.

Color vision abnormality as an initial presentation of the complete type of congenital stationary night blindness

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Tan X

2013-08-01

Full Text Available Xue Tan, Aya Aoki, Yasuo YanagiDepartment of Ophthalmology, University of Tokyo School of Medicine, Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, JapanAbstract: Patients with the complete form of congenital stationary night blindness (CSNB often have reduced visual acuity, myopia, impaired night vision, and sometimes nystagmus and strabismus, however, they seldom complain of color vision abnormality. A 17-year-old male who was at technical school showed abnormalities in the color perception test for employment, and was referred to our hospital for a detailed examination. He had no family history of color vision deficiency and no other symptoms. During the initial examination, his best-corrected visual acuity was 1.2 in both eyes. His fundus showed no abnormalities except for somewhat yellowish reflex in the fovea of both eyes. Electroretinogram (ERG showed a good response in cone ERG and 30 Hz flicker ERG, however, the bright flash, mixed rod and cone ERG showed a negative type with a reduced b-wave (positive deflection. There was no response in the rod ERG, either. From the findings of the typical ERG, the patient was diagnosed with complete congenital stationary night blindness. This case underscores the importance of ERG in order to diagnose the cause of a color vision anomaly.Keywords: congenital stationary night blindness, CSNB, electroretinogram, ERG, color vision defect

Electrofisiología de la visión: generalización de estudios normativos en individuos sanos

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Odelaisys Hernández Echevarría

Full Text Available Objective: to obtain normative data of standard and pattern electroretinography as well as pattern and diffuse light visual evoked potentials from a group of healthy individuals. Methods: a prospective and descriptive study conducted in healthy subjects who were seen at the neurophthalmology service in "Ramón Pando Ferrer" Cuban Institute of Ophthalmology in a six-month period. Sixty eyes of adults aged 20-40 years of both sexes with normal ophthalmologic physical examination results were included. Results: mean values of amplitude and latency at the wave peak of P50 for the pattern electroretinogram were 1,75 microvolts and 53,7 ms. The standard electroretinogram showed b-wave amplitude values of 300, 550 and 290 microvolts for scotopic, mesopic and photopic responses, respectively. The latency of the P100 wave peak in pattern visual evoked potentials at 60 and 20 minutes of arc were 107 and 110 ms and at the diffuse light response, P-2 value was 110 ms with interocular difference lower than 5 ms in both studies. Conclusions: the suggested electrophysiological studies show normal useful values in the evaluation of pathological findings indicative of visual functional impairment at different levels and they may serve as a valid tool of reference for the rest of visual electrophysiology laboratories located in the ophthalmological centers nationwide.

The photocurrent response of human cones is fast and monophasic

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Lamb TD

2006-04-01

Full Text Available Abstract Background The precise form of the light response of human cone photoreceptors in vivo has not been established with certainty. To investigate the response shape we compare the predictions of a recent model of transduction in primate cone photoreceptors with measurements extracted from human cones using the paired-flash electroretinogram method. As a check, we also compare the predictions with previous single-cell measurements of ground squirrel cone responses. Results The predictions of the model provide a good description of the measurements, using values of parameters within the range previously determined for primate retina. The dim-flash response peaks in about 20 ms, and flash responses at all intensities are essentially monophasic. Three time constants in the model are extremely short: the two time constants for inactivation (of visual pigment and of transducin/phosphodiesterase are around 3 and 10 ms, and the time constant for calcium equilibration lies in the same range. Conclusion The close correspondence between experiment and theory, using parameters previously derived for recordings from macaque retina, supports the notion that the electroretinogram approach and the modelling approach both provide an accurate estimate of the cone photoresponse in the living human eye. For reasons that remain unclear, the responses of isolated photoreceptors from the macaque retina, recorded previously using the suction pipette method, are considerably slower than found here, and display biphasic kinetics.

“Mujeres, antiperonismo y antifascismo en Argentina (1943-1955

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Sara A. Perrig

2017-04-01

Full Text Available El presente artículo explora las caracterizaciones que se hicieron del peronismo en Argentina desde espacios políticos, intelectuales y católicos opositores y la participación que tuvieron en ello aquellas mujeres que no se identificaban con el gobierno de Juan Domingo Perón. En primer lugar, el trabajo sostiene que la lucha antifascista abrió las puertas al accionar femenino en la esfera pública a la vez que habilitó su participación en las diferentes discusiones que hacían al clima político de la época. En segundo lugar, se analiza cómo las antiperonistas participaron de un ambiente interpretativo donde conceptualizaciones como la de la psicología de las masas contribuyeron a forjar una posición tanto respecto a Perón como a sus seguidores.

Sentidos del trabajo y organización de la vida doméstica   entre policías de la Provincia de Buenos Aires  

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Sabrina Calandrón

2015-07-01

Full Text Available Este artículo analiza las caracterizaciones de la actividad policial como trabajo, describiendo las percepciones de los miembros de una fuerza de seguridad puntual: la Policía de la Provincia de Buenos Aires. A lo largo del texto se analiza el sitio de la actividad policial en la trayectoria laboral de los y las policías. Esto permite identificar las características relevantes del empleo como la estabilidad económica, la seguridad social que otorga y las proyecciones a futuro. No obstante, también se estudia la convivencia de dinámicas apoyadas en el sistema burocrático policial con otras que personalizan los lazos laborales. Finalmente, las concepciones de la familia y la lógica de responsabilidades morales hacia ella obtienen un lugar central en el desarrollo y sentido del trabajo en la policía.

Identification of a novel mutation in the PTCH gene in a patient with Gorlin-Goltz syndrome with unusual ocular disorders.

Science.gov (United States)

Romano, Mary; Iacovello, Daniela; Cascone, Nikhil C; Contestabile, Maria Teresa

2011-01-01

To document the clinical, functional, and in vivo microanatomic characteristics of a patient with Gorlin-Goltz syndrome with a novel nonsense mutation in PTCH (patched). Optical coherence tomography (OCT), fluorescein angiography, electrophysiologic testing, visual field, magnetic resonance imaging, and mutation screening of PTCH gene. Visual acuity was 20/20 in the right eye and 20/25 in the left. Fundus examination revealed myelinated nerve fibers in the left eye and bilateral epiretinal membranes with lamellar macular hole also documented with macular OCT. A reduction of the retinal nerve fiber layers in both eyes was found with fiber nervous OCT. Fluorescein angiography showed bilaterally foveal hyperfluorescence and the visual field revealed inferior hemianopia in the right eye. Pattern visual evoked potentials registered a reduction of amplitude in both eyes and latency was delayed in the left eye. Pattern electroretinogram showed a reduction in P50 and N95 peak time and a delay in P50 peak time in the left eye. Flash electroretinogram was reduced in rod response, maximal response, and oscillatory potentials in both eyes. Cone response was normal and 30-Hz flicker was slightly reduced in both eyes. Mutation screening identified a novel nonsense mutation in PTCH. A novel nonsense mutation in the PTCH gene was found. We report the occurrence of epiretinal membranes and the persistence of myelinated nerve fibers. Electrophysiologic and visual field alterations, supporting a neuroretinal dysfunction, were also documented.

Characterization of a Case of Pigmentary Retinopathy in Sanfilippo Syndrome Type IIIA Associated with Compound Heterozygous Mutations in the SGSH Gene.

Science.gov (United States)

Wilkin, Justin; Kerr, Natalie C; Byrd, Kathryn W; Ward, Jewell C; Iannaccone, Alessandro

2016-06-01

To report longitudinal phenotypic findings in a patient with Sanfilippo syndrome type IIIA, harboring SGSH mutations, one of which is novel. Heparan-N-sulfatidase enzyme function testing in skin fibroblasts and white blood cells and SGSH gene sequencing were obtained. Clinical office examinations, examinations under anesthesia, electroretinogram, spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT), and fundus photography were performed over a 5-year period. Fundus examination revealed a progressive breadcrumb-like pigmentary retinopathy with perifoveal pigmentary involvement. SD-OCT showed loss of normal neuroretinal lamination and cystic macular changes responsive to treatment with carbonic anhydrase inhibitors. Electroretinography exhibited complex characteristics indicative of a generalized retinal rod > cone dysfunction with significant ON > OFF postreceptoral response compromise. Sequencing revealed compound heterozygous mutations in the SGSH gene, the novel c.88G > C (p.A30P) change and a second, previously reported one (c.734G > A, p.R245H). We have identified ocular features of a patient with Sanfilippo syndrome type IIIA harboring a novel SGHS mutation that were not previously known to occur in this disease - namely, a progressive retinopathy with distinctive features, cystic macular changes responsive to carbonic anhydrase inhibitors, and complex electroretinographic abnormalities consistent with postreceptoral dysfunction. SD-OCT imaging revealed retinal lamination changes consistent with previously reported histologic studies. Both the SD-OCT and the electroretinogram changes appear attributable to intraretinal deposition of heparan sulfate.

Looking for periodicities in the hail intensity in the Andes region

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Prieto, R; Herrera, R; Doussel, P [Inaiglia, Mendoza (Argentina); Gimeno, L; Ribera, P [Univerisdad de Vigo, Orense (Spain); Garcia, R; Hernandez, E [Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid (Spain)

2001-04-01

Documental sources and categorization techniques were used to construct a series of the annual hail intensity in Mendoza area (Argentina). When the temporal series by means of Singular Spectrum Analysis (SSA) and the Maximum Entropy Method (MEM) was analyzed, we found interdecadal oscillations of periods of about 20 years and interannual oscillations of about 4 and 9 years. In addition when detrented-data were used a low frequency oscillation of about 72 years also appears. [Spanish] Para construir una serie de intensidades de granizo en el area de Mendoza (Argentina), se emplearon fuentes documentales y tecnicas de caracterizacion. Cuando se analizaron las series temporales, mediante el Analisis Singular del Expectro (SSA), y el Metodo de Maxima Entropia, encontramos oscilaciones decadales con periodos de aproximadamente 20 anos y oscilaciones interanuales de alrededor de 4 a 9 anos. Ademas cuando la variacion por tendencia de los datos se elimino, se puso de manifiesto una oscilacion de frecuencia de cerca de 72 anos.

Conflictos sociales, estéticos y éticos en ‘El hombre de al lado’ (2009

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Karim Benmiloud

2016-08-01

Full Text Available El articulo versa sobre la pelicula de Mariano Cohn y Gastón Duprat, "El hombre de al lado" (Argentina, 2009, y se propone analizar los resortes del conflicto que ejemplifican los dos protagonistas, un disenador de moda y un hombre del pueblo. El conflicto se plasma en torno al especial protagonismo que desempena en la pelicula la Casa Curtuchet (1948-1953, obra maestra del arquitecto Le Corbusier.El articulo analiza sucesivamente el conflicto de vecinos bajo el prisma de un enfrentamiento entre naturaleza y cultura, las variaciones sobre la figura del otro que encarna el personaje de Victor Chubello, y la sutil evolucion de la caracterizacion de los personajes que incita al espectador a que vaya mas alla de sus prejuicios clasistas e ideologicos.El articulo concluye con la lograda incorporacion de la Casa Curutchet, como escenario ejemplar, al patrimonio internacional del cine, donde integra un corpus arquitectonico prestigioso.

Psicología del aprendizaje: investigación basica publicada en revistas iberoamericanas indexadas

OpenAIRE

Rubén Ardila; Andrés M. Pérez-Acosta; Germán Gutiérrez

2005-01-01

Se analizan las tendencias en la investigación básica sobre psicología del aprendizaje y su impacto, con base en los trabajos publicados en las principales revistas de psicología en español: Revista Latinoamericana de Psicología (RLP), Psicothema (PT), Revista Mexicana de Psicología (RMP), y Revista Interamericana de Psicología (RIP). Las tres primeras están indexadas por el Institute for Scientific Information (ISS), y la cuarta lo estuvo hasta hace pocos años. Los porcentajes...

A visao dos trabalhadores da Atencao Basica acerca da presenca de estudantes de enfermagem

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Priscila Norie de Araujo

2013-06-01

Full Text Available Essa investigação qualitativa objetivou analisar a visão dos trabalhadores de uma Unidade Básica de Saúde quanto à presença no serviço de estudantes de graduação em enfermagem. Dezoito trabalhadores foram sujeitos de entrevistas semi-estruturadas, analisadas após transcrição. Na análise de conteúdo identificamos dois temas: A lentificação e a vivificação do serviço e O (despreparo para aprender e ensinar. Os resultados apontam para um processo de parceria ensino-serviço ainda em construção, em que os trabalhadores sentem-se aprendendo, mas também desvalorizados. Com a presença dos estudantes, a dinâmica do trabalho é modificada, tornando-se mais lenta. Ao mesmo tempo, a presença estudantil interroga as formas hegemônicas de atender rapidamente. Evidencia-se expectativa de colaboração nas ações, havendo preferência pelos estudantes dos últimos anos que executam procedimentos e não requerem acompanhamento constante. Concluimos que a aproximação entre universidade e serviços da Atenção Básica expõe tensões que, se analisadas coletivamente, podem engendrar novas formas de cuidar, ensinar e aprender.

Iniciativa Unidade Basica Amiga da Amamentacao e sua relacao com o aleitamento materno exclusivo

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Ana Lucia Naves Alves

2013-12-01

Full Text Available OBJETIVO : Analisar a prevalência do aleitamento materno exclusivo e sua associação com a assistência pela Iniciativa Unidade Básica Amiga da Amamentação. MÉTODOS : Estudo transversal, com dados da pesquisa sobre práticas alimentares no primeiro ano de vida conduzida nas campanhas de vacinação em Barra Mansa, RJ, em 2003 e 2006. Foram selecionadas as crianças < 6 meses, no total 589 em 2003 e 707 em 2006. Tomou-se por base o inquérito de 2006 para estimar a relação entre ser assistido pela Iniciativa Unidade Básica Amiga da Amamentação e a prática do aleitamento materno exclusivo. Variáveis de exposição que se mostraram associadas (p ≤ 0,20 ao desfecho na análise bivariada foram selecionadas para a análise múltipla. As razões de prevalência ajustadas foram obtidas por modelo de regressão de Poisson com variância robusta, segundo modelo conceitual hierarquizado. O modelo final foi composto por variáveis de exposição que obtiveram p ≤ 0,05. RESULTADOS : A prevalência do aleitamento materno exclusivo aumentou de 30,2% em 2003 para 46,7% em 2006. Baixa escolaridade materna reduziu o aleitamento materno exclusivo em 20,0% (RP = 0,798; IC95% 0,684;0,931, o parto cesariano em 16,0% (RP = 0,838; IC95% 0,719;0,976, o uso de chupeta em 41,0% (RP = 0,589; IC95% 0,495;0,701 e a prevalência de aleitamento materno exclusivo foi 1,0% menor a cada dia de vida da criança (RP = 0,992; IC95% 0,991;0,994 na análise múltipla. O acompanhamento do bebê por unidade credenciada na Iniciativa Unidade Básica Amiga da Amamentação aumentou o desfecho em 19,0% (RP = 1,193; IC95% 1,020;1,395. CONCLUSÕES : A Iniciativa Unidade Básica Amiga da Amamentação contribuiu para a prática do aleitamento materno exclusivo e para orientação de gestantes e mães quando implementada na rede primária de saúde.

Hereditary retinal eye diseases in childhood and youth affecting the central retina

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Martin M Nentwich

2013-01-01

Classic examinations for patients suffering from hereditary retinal dystrophies of the central retina are funduscopy - also using red-free light - visual-field tests, electrophysiologic tests as electro-retinogram [ERG] and multifocal ERG and tests evaluating color vision. Recently, new imaging modalities have been introduced into the clinical practice. The significance of these new methods such as high-resolution spectral-domain optic coherence tomography [SD-OCT] and fundus autofluorescence will be discussed as well as "next generation sequencing" as a new method for the analysis of genetic mutations in a larger number of patients.

Characterization of Mexican zeolite minerals; Caracterizacion de minerales zeoliticos mexicanos

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Jimenez C, M.J

2005-07-01

50% of the Mexican territory is formed by volcanic sequences of the Pliocene type, which appear extensively in the northwest states (Sonora, Sinaloa, Chihuahua, Durango) and west of Mexico (Jalisco and Nayarit), in central Mexico (Zacatecas, Guanajuato, San Luis Potosi, Queretaro, Hidalgo) and south of Mexico (Guerrero, Oaxaca); therefore, it is to be expected that in our country big locations of natural zeolites exist in its majority of the clinoptilolite type. The present study was focused toward the characterization of two Mexican natural zeolite rocks presumably of the clinoptilolite and filipsite types, one of them comes from the state of Chihuahua and the other of a trader company of non metallic minerals, due that these materials are not characterized, its are not known their properties completely and therefore, the uses that can be given to these materials. In this investigation work it was carried out the characterization of two Mexican zeolite rocks, one coming from the Arroyo zone, municipality of La Haciendita, in the state of Chihuahua; and the other one was bought to a trader company of non metallic minerals. The two zeolites so much in their natural form as conditioned with sodium; they were characterized by means of X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy of high vacuum and elementary microanalysis (EDS), surface area analysis (BET), thermal gravimetric analysis. To differentiate the heulandite crystalline phase of the other clinoptilolite rock, its were carried out thermal treatments. The quantification of Al, Na, Ca, K, Mg, Fe was carried out in solution, by means of atomic absorption spectroscopy and the quantity of Si was determined by gravimetry. The zeolite rocks presented for the major part the crystalline heulandite and clinoptilolite phases for the most part, and it was found that the zeolite coming from the state of Chihuahua possesses a bigger content of heulandite and the denominated filipsite it is really a zeolite clinoptilolite type. When comparing the obtained results of the elementary composition of the natural Mexican zeolites with those of zeolites clinoptilolite type from other places of the world it was found that the composition is similar as for its components and different as for its concentration. (Author)

Estudo eletrorretinográfico de visão cromática Electroretinographic study of chromatic vision

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Daniela Cavalcanti Ferrara de Almeida Cunha

2006-12-01

Full Text Available OBJETIVO: O objetivo deste estudo é descrever o traçado eletrorretinográfico no gambá sul-americano (Didelphis aurita obtido com estímulo cromático de comprimento de onda seletivo. O eletrorretinograma é o registro das variações de voltagem nas células retinianas, desencadeadas por estímulo luminoso. O eletrorretinograma representa a atividade elétrica combinada de diferentes células, e sofre variações dependendo da fisiologia retiniana e do método de exame. MÉTODOS: Foram registrados os eletrorretinogramas de seis animais em adaptação ao escuro utilizando filtros cromáticos Kodak Wratten®, e registrada a sensibilidade espectral para comprimentos de onda específicos nas faixas de cores do azul, verde, amarelo, laranja e vermelho. RESULTADOS: Os resultados eletrorretinográficos mais consistentes foram obtidos quando o animal foi estimulado por faixas espectrais seletivas, ao invés de luz branca; e são consistentes com a curva de absorbância das opsinas descritas em fotorreceptores de marsupiais. Estudos prévios sugeriram a tricromacia dos marsupiais por microespectrofotometria de opsinas e imuno-histoquímica de retina. Esse fundamento morfológico não tinha demonstração fisiológica eletrorretinográfica, até este estudo. CONCLUSÃO: O gambá sul-americano tem se mostrado interessante como animal experimental no estudo comparativo da fisiologia visual em mamíferos, especialmente no estudo filogenético da visão cromática. Os marsupiais apresentam um modelo retiniano que superpõe os sistemas fotópico e escotópico; e o gênero Didelphis conserva características encontradas em fósseis do período pleoceno. Portanto, o sistema visual de um marsupial resgata características dos primórdios da evolução dos mamíferos, até o desenvolvimento dos padrões retinianos modernos.PURPOSE: To describe the electroretinogram of the South-American opossum (Didelphis aurita obtained by chromatic stimulus of specific

La formación y las organizaciones. Los Acuerdos Nacionales de Formación Continua

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ISABEL DE LA TORRE

1997-01-01

Full Text Available el articulo parte de una reflexion inicial sobre los conceptos de educacion, formacion y aprendizaje, considerandolos recursos fundamentales para hacer frente a las exigencias de adaptacion y cambio en la actual sociedad del conocimiento y de la informacion. una adaptacion imprescindible en las organizaciones, ya que sus estructuras cada vez requieren mayor flexibilidad y, en consecuencia, una adecuacion de los hombres y mujeres que las integran. la adaptacion es posible cuando las personas disponen de una educacion y formacion basica y continuada, que les permite interpretar los cambios, ofrecer respuestas creativas y participar en las propuestas de accion. hacer posible la formacion permanente es el resultado de la adopcion de una actuacion concreta. en la sociedad española se ha establecido un modelo de formacion continuada que tiene unas peculiaridades de especial interes. la adopcion de este modelo es fruto del acuerdo entre los principales representantes de los agentes sociales, materializado en la firma de un primer acuerdo en 1992 y de un segundo acuerdo en 1996.

PRESSÃO URBANA EM ÁREAS DE FLORESTAS: história e conflitos políticos da proteção ambiental

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Neli Aparecida de Mello-Théry

2009-01-01

Full Text Available Este artículo analisa cómo el proceso de urbanización en la ciudad de São Paulo resultó en una presión sobre los bosques urbanos. Por este motivo, estudiaremos los casos del Parque Serra da Cantareira y la APA Capivari-Monos.Las dos unidades de conservación fueron escogidos por el hecho de que son núcleos de Reserva de la Biósfera del Cinturón Verde de São Paulo (RBCV, uno de los instrumentos actuales de la Política Ambiental. El proceso histórico de sustitución de los bosques por otros usos del suelo apunta las fragilidades que estas regiones así como su importáncia para la preservación de especies de flora y fauna. Constituiran literatura basica y marcos de analisis, los documentos de creación de la Reserva, las visitas de campo, las entrevistas con responsables por la gestión de las unidades y las opiniones de autores reconocidos.

Determinacion del error sistematico del momentum de muones producidos por interacciones neutrino-nucleon en el detector MINER$\

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Diaz Bautista, Gonzalo A. [Pontifical Catholic Univ. of Peru, Lima (Peru)

2015-11-29

El Modelo Estandar describe todas las partculas observadas en el naturaleza hasta el momento as como las caractersticas que gobiernan a las interacciones fundamentales entre ellas. En especial es posible identicar a las interacciones electromagnetica y debil, las cuales bajo determinadas condiciones de temperatura y energa pueden ser descritas a traves de una sola teora que engloba a ambas. A esta teora se le denomina electrodebil y tiene como nalidad caracterizar las propiedades de la interaccion maniesta a partir de la mezcla de las interacciones electromagnetica y debil, la que tambien lleva como nombre interaccion electrodebil. Particularmente, los neutrinos son de especial interes ya que, por un lado, interactuan por medio de la interaccion debil muy raramente en comparacion con otras partculas y, por el otro, no son acertadamente descritos por el Modelo Estandar. Por medio de observaciones experimentales que demostraban que los neutrinos cambian de sabor al propagarse, fenomeno llamado oscilaciones de neutrinos, se pudo llegar a la conclusion de que la implicancia de este fenomeno da como consecuencia que los neutrinos efectivamente s tienen masa, algo que entra en contradiccion con la descripcion inicial del Modelo Estandar, el cual los describe como partculas sin masa. Es de esta manera que las oscilaciones de neutrinos han sido y siguen siendo en la actualidad objeto de interes en la Fsica de Altas Energas tanto teorica como experimental. A n de poder realizar mediciones precisas de oscilaciones de neutrinos, los experimentos encargados de estas mediciones deben tratar de reducir sus incertidumbres en lo posible. Una de estas proviene de la caracterizacion de las secciones de choque de los neutrinos cuando interactuan con la materia, particularmente los nucleones al interior de los nucleos atomicos. El experimento MINERA esta orientado, entre otras cosas, a hacer una correcta caracterizacion de secciones de choque neutrino-nucleon por medio del estudio de

Sonochemical synthesis of a PdAg/C electrocatalyst for oxygen reduction reaction; Sintesis sonoquimica de un electrocatalizador de PdAg/C para la reaccion de reduccion de oxigeno

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Godinez-Garcia, A.; Perez-Robles, J.F. [Centro de Investigacion y de Estudios Avanzados del IPN. Santiago de Queretaro, Queretaro (Mexico)]. E-mail: jperez@qro.cinvestav.mx; Solorza-Feria, O. [CINVESTAV-IPN, Mexico, D.F. (Mexico)

2009-09-15

The synthesis and characterization of nanocatalysts for fuel cells has been a primary line of research for the purpose of obtaining less expensive electrocatalysts with better activity. A large variety of methods exist to synthesize useful nanoparticles as electrocatalysts. Each method generates particles with a different surface morphology and, therefore, the catalytic activity usually varies depending on which is used in the synthesis. In this work, PdAg/C electrocatalysts are synthesized with high-intensity ultrasonic irradiation and compared to those obtained using a conventional method such as reduction by NaBH{sub 4}. The study of this technique is of interest because it produces highly dispersed carbon-supported nanoparticles with very clean surfaces. Each electrocatalyst was evaluated for its oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) in acid medium with cyclic voltamperometry (CV) and rotating disc electrode (RDE). The electrocatalyst was characterized with x-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The physical characterization reveals that the electrocatalyst is composed of nanometric bimetallic aggregates. An important characteristic of the PdAg/C alloy obtained using ultrasound is better activity than that obtained by reduction with NaBH{sub 4}. [Spanish] La sintesis y caracterizacion de nanocatalizadores para celdas de combustible ha sido una de las principales lineas de investigacion, con el objetivo de obtener electrocatalizadores mas baratos y con una mejor actividad. Existen una gran variedad de metodos para sintetizar nanoparticulas utiles como electrocatalizadores, cada metodo genera particulas con una morfologia superficial diferente por lo que la actividad catalitica suele variar dependiendo de cual se utilice en la sintesis. En este trabajo se sintetizan electrocatalizadores de PdAg/C con irradiacion ultrasonica de alta intensidad y se comparan con las obtenidas con un metodo convencional como es la reduccion por NaBH{sub 4}. Esta

Time-Dependent Decline in Multifocal Electroretinogram Requires Faster Recording Procedures in Anesthetized Pigs

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Sørensen, Nina Buus; Christiansen, Anders Tolstrup; Kjær, Troels Wesenberg

2017-01-01

between the 3-minute and the prolonged mfERG recordings for conventional amplitudes and the global-flash direct response. The global flash-induced component significantly decreases with prolonged mfERG recordings. CONCLUSIONS: A 3-minute mfERG recording and a single stimulation protocol is sufficient...... injection of tetrodotoxin (TTX) was given and the mfERG was rerecorded as described above. Data were analyzed using mixed models in SAS statistical software. RESULTS: Propofol significantly decreases the conventional and global-flash amplitudes over time. The only significant effect of isoflurane...... is a decrease in the global-flash amplitudes. At 15 minutes after TTX injection several of the mfERG amplitudes are significantly decreased. There is a linear correlation between the conventional P1 and the global-flash DR mfERG-amplitude (R2 = 0.82, slope = 0.72, P

Cone function studied with flicker electroretinogram during progressive retinal degeneration in RCS rats.

Science.gov (United States)

Pinilla, I; Lund, R D; Sauvé, Y

2005-01-01

The Royal College of Surgeons (RCS) rat has a primary defect in retinal pigment epithelial cells that leads to the progressive loss of photoreceptors and central visual responsiveness. While most rods are lost by 90 days of age (P90), cones degenerate more slowly, and can be detected anatomically up to 2 years of age, despite massive neuronal death and retinal remodelling. To examine how this progressive degenerative process impacts on cone function, we recorded the electroretingram to white light flashes (1.37 log cd s m(-2)) presented at frequencies ranging from 3 to 50 Hz, under light adapted conditions (29.8 cd m(-2)). Pigmented dystrophic and congenic non-dystrophic RCS rats aged from 18 to 300 days were studied. In all responsive animals at all ages, maximal amplitudes were obtained at 3 Hz. In both non-dystrophic and dystrophic rats, there was an increase from P18 to P21 in response amplitude and critical fusion frequency. After P21, these two parameters declined progressively with age in dystrophic rats. Other changes included prolongation in latency, which was first detected prior to the initiation of amplitude reduction. While phase shifts were also detected in dystrophic RCS rats, they appeared at later degenerative stages. The latest age at which responses could be elicited in dystrophic rats was at P200, with positive waves being replaced by negative deflections. The effect of increments in the intensity of background illumination was tested at P50 in both groups. This caused a diminution in flicker response amplitude and critical fusion frequencies in non-dystrophics, while in dystrophic animals, response amplitudes were reduced only at low frequencies and critical fusion frequencies were unaltered. In conclusion, although dystrophic RCS rats undergo a progressive decline in cone function with age, the flicker responsiveness at P21 is comparable to that of non-dystrophic congenic rats, suggesting normal developmental maturation of the cone system in this animal model of retinal degeneration. Flicker responses can be recorded up to P200, at which point the retina has undergone severe regressive and reactive changes in its connectivity patterns. The fact that responses at this age consist of solely negative deflections might be a reflection of the highly pathological state of the retina.

Progranulin, a major secreted protein of mouse adipose-derived stem cells, inhibits light-induced retinal degeneration.

Science.gov (United States)

Tsuruma, Kazuhiro; Yamauchi, Mika; Sugitani, Sou; Otsuka, Tomohiro; Ohno, Yuta; Nagahara, Yuki; Ikegame, Yuka; Shimazawa, Masamitsu; Yoshimura, Shinichi; Iwama, Toru; Hara, Hideaki

2014-01-01

Adipose tissue stromal vascular fraction contains mesenchymal stem cells, which show protective effects when administered to damaged tissues, mainly through secreted trophic factors. We examined the protective effects of adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs) and ASC-conditioned medium (ASC-CM) against retinal damage and identified the neuroprotective factors in ASC-CM. ASCs and mature adipocytes were isolated from mouse subcutaneous tissue. ASCs were injected intravitreally in a mouse model of light-induced retinal damage, and ASC injection recovered retinal function as measured by electroretinogram and inhibited outer nuclear layer, thinning, without engraftment of ASCs. ASC-CM and mature adipocyte-conditioned medium were collected after 72 hours of culture. In vitro, H2O2- and light-induced cell death was reduced in a photoreceptor cell line with ASC-CM but not with mature adipocyte-conditioned medium. In vivo, light-induced photoreceptor damage was evaluated by measurement of outer nuclear layer thickness at 5 days after light exposure and by electroretinogram recording. ASC-CM significantly inhibited photoreceptor degeneration and retinal dysfunction after light exposure. Progranulin was identified as a major secreted protein of ASCs that showed protective effects against retinal damage in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, progranulin phosphorylated extracellular signal-regulated kinase, cAMP response element binding protein, and hepatocyte growth factor receptor, and protein kinase C signaling pathways were involved in the protective effects of progranulin. These findings suggest that ASC-CM and progranulin have neuroprotective effects in the light-induced retinal-damage model. Progranulin may be a potential target for the treatment of the degenerative diseases of the retina.

Photoreceptor cells with profound structural deficits can support useful vision in mice.

Science.gov (United States)

Thompson, Stewart; Blodi, Frederick R; Lee, Swan; Welder, Chris R; Mullins, Robert F; Tucker, Budd A; Stasheff, Steven F; Stone, Edwin M

2014-03-25

In animal models of degenerative photoreceptor disease, there has been some success in restoring photoreception by transplanting stem cell-derived photoreceptor cells into the subretinal space. However, only a small proportion of transplanted cells develop extended outer segments, considered critical for photoreceptor cell function. The purpose of this study was to determine whether photoreceptor cells that lack a fully formed outer segment could usefully contribute to vision. Retinal and visual function was tested in wild-type and Rds mice at 90 days of age (Rds(P90)). Photoreceptor cells of mice homozygous for the Rds mutation in peripherin 2 never develop a fully formed outer segment. The electroretinogram and multielectrode recording of retinal ganglion cells were used to test retinal responses to light. Three distinct visual behaviors were used to assess visual capabilities: the optokinetic tracking response, the discrimination-based visual water task, and a measure of the effect of vision on wheel running. Rds(P90) mice had reduced but measurable electroretinogram responses to light, and exhibited light-evoked responses in multiple types of retinal ganglion cells, the output neurons of the retina. In optokinetic and discrimination-based tests, acuity was measurable but reduced, most notably when contrast was decreased. The wheel running test showed that Rds(P90) mice needed 3 log units brighter luminance than wild type to support useful vision (10 cd/m(2)). Photoreceptors that lack fully formed outer segments can support useful vision. This challenges the idea that normal cellular structure needs to be completely reproduced for transplanted cells to contribute to useful vision.

Synthesis and characterization of RUM catalysts (M=SE,MO,W,SN) applied in ORR for a PEMFC fuel battery; Sintesis y caracterizacion de catalizadores RUM (M=SE,MO,W,SN) aplicados en la RRO para una pila de combustible PEMFC

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Ezeta-Mejia, A.; Arce Estrada, E.M. [Instituto Politecnico Nacional, Mexico, D.F. (Mexico)]. E-mail: araceli-ezeta@hotmail.com; earce@ipn.mx

2009-09-15

baja temperatura y ofrecen una alta combinacion entre densidad de potencia y alta eficiencia en la conversion de energia, lo que las hace adecuadas para aplicaciones portatiles. Sin embargo, la reaccion de reduccion de oxigeno, RRO, que se lleva a cabo en el catodo de la pila, juega un papel determinante debido a que es la reaccion limitante del proceso, por lo que se requiere el empleo de electrocatalizadores mas eficientes. El electrocatalizador optimo para esta reaccion es el Pt, pero debido a su costo elevado se han tenido que buscar electrocatalizadores alternativos que conjuguen una alta actividad, estabilidad y bajo costo. Muchas investigaciones han mostrado que los catalizadores binarios base Pt tales como Pt-M (M= Co, Fe, etc.) presentan una buena actividad electrocatalitica para la RRO; otros estudios demuestran que los catalizadores base Ru (RuSe, RuSe,Mo, RuSeRh) tambien poseen una adecuada actividad para esta reaccion. En este estudio, se reporta la sintesis por aleado mecanico a diferentes tiempos de molienda (0, 20 y 40 h) de electrocatalizadores nanoparticulados de tipo RuPt{sub x}M (x=0, 0.6% y M=Se,Mo,W,Sn). Los materiales sintetizados por aleado mecanico se caracterizaron por microscopia electronica de barrido y por difraccion de rayos X, obteniendose particulas aglomeradas y dispersas entre 1 y 30 {mu}m. La caracterizacion electrocatalitica se llevo a cabo mediante las tecnicas de VC y EDR en una solucion de H{sub 2}SO{sub 4} 0.5 M a temperatura ambiente. Los sistemas presentan un orden de reaccion de 1, respecto a la RRO y una transferencia global multielectronica de 4e{sup -} para la formacion de agua. Se realizo una comparacion de la actividad electrocatalitica en presencia y ausencia de Pt, mostrando que el Pt incrementa la actividad catalitica de los materiales en al menos un orden de magnitud.

Effect of elimination of nitrogen and/or hypoxia or restricted visual environment on color vision and range of accommodation

Science.gov (United States)

Wolbarsht, M. L.; White, C. W.; Anderson, W. B., Jr.

1973-01-01

The effects upon range of accommodation and color vision of reduced atmospheric pressure, at partial and complete elimination of nitrogen, of hypoxia, and of exposure for varying periods of time to restricted visual environment, have been studied alone or in various combinations. Measurements were made on the electroretinogram, the electrooculogram, and the diameter of the retinal vessels as an indicator of blood flow to the retina at the time of total elimination of nitrogen. An objective method was used to test range of accommodation. In the color vision test the flicker colors of a Benham's top were matched with a colorimeter.

Ação educativa interdisciplinar para pacientes com diabetes na atenção basica

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Letícia Fernandez Frigo

2012-01-01

Full Text Available Atualmente Diabetes Mellitus (DM se configura como um dos principais problemas de Saúde Pública no Brasil, sendo assim um dos transtornos crônicos mais frequentes do mundo. Desta maneira, este trabalho teve como objetivo conhecer estratégias efetuadas pelos profissionais da atenção primária em saúde (APS, voltadas à educação do portador de DMtipo 2 na APS de maneira a contribuir para a promoção da saúde. Métodos: Trata-se de uma pesquisa bibliográfica sobre aplicaçãode estratégias científicas, tendo por finalidade reunir e sintetizar publicações e realizar uma avaliação crítica das mesmas. A coletade dados foi realizada entre março e maio de 2012, nas seguintes bases de dados eletrônicos: Periódicos CAPES (Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior, Brasil, Scientific Electronic Library Online - SCIELO, LILACS, Google Acadêmicoe SBD (Sociedade Brasileira de Diabetes, onde foram selecionados 14 artigos. Resultados: O presente estudo mostrou avançosde conhecimentos referentes ao diabetes e modificações nas estratégias educativas utilizadas que visaram conhecer seusefeitos no controle da doença e no gerenciamento do auto-cuidado. Além disso, permite discutir os possíveis limites e opçõesde aperfeiçoamento do processo de educação em saúde, associado aos cuidados interdisciplinares para diabetes. Conclusão: A prática educativa apresenta-se como a melhor maneira de conscientizar a pessoa com diabetes sobre a importância da melhora dos hábitos alimentares e do seu próprio cuidado. É um momento no qual indivíduo e profissionais de saúde discutem todas as informações acerca da doença e do tratamento.

Atribuicoes do enfermeiro na unidade basica de saude: percepcoes e expectativas dos auxiliares de enfermagem

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Candida Elizabete dos Santos Soares

2013-08-01

Full Text Available O presente estudo teve por objetivo verificar as percepções e expectativas dos Auxiliares de Enfermagem (AE que trabalham em Unidades Básicas de Saúde (UBS de uma região do Município de São Paulo, sobre as atribuições do enfermeiro. Estudo qualitativo que utilizou a metodologia do Discurso do Sujeito Coletivo. Foi realizado em três UBS, com 20 AE. Os dados foram coletados por meio de entrevistas, realizadas em 2007. Constatou-se que para os AE entrevistados as atribuições do enfermeiro estavam associadas às atitudes pessoais no cotidiano do trabalho, que o enfermeiro era prestador da assistência direta, que tinha o papel de orientador e coordenador, bem como excesso de atribuições. As expectativas dos entrevistados foram: participação do enfermeiro no atendimento direto ao usuário, competência para coordenar a equipe e avaliar as necessidades dos usuários. Conhecer as atribuições do enfermeiro é importante para responder apropriadamente às necessidades da coletividade.

Caracterización poblacional vista desde la perspectiva del desarrollo humano y el enfoque diferencial

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Nancy Eliana Gallo Restrepo

2014-01-01

Full Text Available Este artículo desarrolla a profundidad, de forma amplia y rigurosa, las bases teóricas y metodológicas que fundamentaron el marco conceptual, las categorías de análisis y las estratégicas de recolección de información del proyecto de investigación “Condiciones de vida de la población negra, afrocolombiana, palenquera y raizal en Medellín. Caracterización socio-demográfica, desarrollo humano y derechos humanos 2010”, concluido en el 2011, financiado por convenio interadministrativo de asociación entre la Secretaría de Cultura Ciudadana de la Alcaldía de Medellín y la Corporación Convivamos. Véase en referencias Gallo Restrepo y Sandoval (2011. Las caracterizaciones de poblaciones tienen por objetivo evidenciar realidades sociales, políticas y culturales. Permiten obtener conocimientos fiables del estado actual de las condiciones de vida de una sociedad, o una comunidad en particular, en temas amplios y a su vez conexos.

La constitución de transtornos sexuales en la Psiquiatría.

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Isabel Gamboa Barboza

2011-08-01

Full Text Available Esta investigación pone al descubierto la relación entre la construcción de identidades y las prácticas sexuales y las prácticas médicas.   En el artículo se procura analizar e interpretar cómo en la construcción de las identidades y prácticas sexuales las concepciones médicas tienen un peso singular en el etiquetamiento social de los enfermos o supuestos enfermos. La autora estudia como apesar de que hoy en día la  psiquiatría ya no clasifica a la homosexualidad clínicamente como una enfermedad mental, si continúa construyendo caracterizaciones de algunas identidades y prácticas sexuales como trastornos, teniendo como punto tácito de comparación o referencia más importante, ciertas identidades y prácticas asociadas a la heterosexualidad reproductora presentadas como el paradigma de la sexualidad saludable

Chemical-mineralogical characterization of copper smelting flue dust

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Eduardo Balladares

2014-01-01

Full Text Available En el procesamiento pirometalúrgico del cobre, hasta 10% de la carga alimentada a los hornos sale de estos en forma de polvo arrastrado por los gases conteniendo la mayor parte de las impurezas presentes en el mineral, así como cantidades significativas de cobre por lo que no pueden ser descartados como residuos industriales y debe tratarse para recuperar el cobre. La conceptualización de nuevos y mejores procesos requiere caracterizaciones de estos materiales más precisas. Se analizaron polvos provenientes de una caldera recuperadora de calor y de un precipitador electrostático, ambos de un horno de fusión instantánea. Las diferentes herramientas analíticas empleadas muestran que el cobre y el hierro se encuentran principalmente en fases solubles en agua tales como chalcantita. La fracción insoluble está formada mayoritariamente por hematita y magnetita, con probable presencia de delafosita. Parte del cobre detectada en la fracción insoluble se asocia al hierro en forma de espinela.

Sedimentary petrology of oil well rock cores; Petrologia sedimentaria de nucleos de rocas de pozos petroleros

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Izquierdo M, Georgina; Paredes S, Adriana [Instituto de Investigaciones Electricas, Cuernavaca, Morelos (Mexico)

2001-07-01

At the request of PEMEX Exploration and Production (PEP), in the area of Geology of the Gerencia de Geotermia, the necessary methodology has been integrated to carry out the geologic characterization of cores obtained during the oil well drilling. The integrated studies have been of utility for PEMEX, because they provide detailed information on the processes, conditions of deposition and diagenesis that occur in sedimentary rocks. On the other hand, this geologic information contributes to the update of the geologic model of the field in study. [Spanish] A solicitud de PEMEX Exploracion y Produccion (PEP), en el area de Geologia de la Gerencia de Geotermia, se ha integrado la metodologia necesaria para llevar a cabo la caracterizacion geologica de nucleos obtenidos durante la perforacion de pozos petroleros. Los estudios integrados han sido de utilidad para PEMEX, pues proporcionan informacion detallada sobre los procesos, condiciones de depositacion y diagenesis que ocurren en rocas sedimentarias. Por otro lado, esta informacion geologica contribuye a la actualizacion del modelo geologico del campo en estudio.

Redes sociales y territorialidad bolichera de sirios y libaneses en el sudeste de Río Negro, Argentina (1900-1950

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Matías Rodrigo Chávez

2016-01-01

Full Text Available En este artículo proponemos un análisis sobre las relaciones establecidas por los inmigrantes sirios y libaneses en el sudeste del Territorio Nacional de Río Negro en las primeras décadas del siglo XX. El uso de la metodología de Análisis de Redes Sociales (ARS nos permitió discutir las caracterizaciones estereotipadas de estos sujetos históricos para reinstalar su complejidad y la multiplicidad de estrategias, individuales y colectivas, con el propósito de avanzar en la reconstrucción de una cartografía que habilite la representación gráfica de las redes de familiarización/ alianza. Espacialmente, nos circunscribimos al sudeste de Río Negro, y dentro de este territorio prestamos una mayor atención a la localidad de Valcheta y sus zonas de influencia para determinar la posición y la movilidad de los actores a partir del estudio de una amplia variedad de fuentes producidas mayormente por el estado.

Caracterización poblacional vista desde la perspectiva del desarrollo humano y el enfoque diferencial

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Nancy Eliana Gallo Restrepo

2017-04-01

Full Text Available Este artículo desarrolla a profundidad, de forma amplia y rigurosa, las bases teóricas y metodológicas que fundamentaron el marco conceptual, las categorías de análisis y las estratégicas de recolección de información del proyecto de investigación “Condiciones de vida de la población negra, afrocolombiana, palenquera y raizal en Medellín. Caracterización socio-demográfica, desarrollo humano y derechos humanos 2010”, concluido en el 2011, financiado por convenio interadministrativo de asociación entre la Secretaría de Cultura Ciudadana de la Alcaldía de Medellín y la Corporación Convivamos. Véase en referencias Gallo Restrepo y Sandoval (2011. Las caracterizaciones de poblaciones tienen por objetivo evidenciar realidades sociales, políticas y culturales. Permiten obtener conocimientos fiables del estado actual de las condiciones de vida de una sociedad, o una comunidad en particular, en temas amplios y a su vez conexos.

Medida y caracterizacion de la pobreza en la Region de Murcia.

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Lafuente Lechuga, Matilde

2008-01-01

Full Text Available Esta comunicación pretende servir de acercamiento al fenómeno de la exclusión social, mediante la evaluación de la pobreza en la Región de Murcia y su alcance en relación con el conjunto nacional. Se aborda la medición y caracterización de la pobreza monetaria, haciendo referencia a su sentido más restringido, o en términos de escasez de renta. Para este estudio se utiliza la Encuesta de Condiciones de Vida (ECV relativa al año 2004.

Caracterizacion de materiales magnetoelasticos y su aplicacion al control de vibraciones

Science.gov (United States)

Morales Robredo, Angel Luis

The characterization and application of magnetoelastic materials to problems of vibration control is tackled in this thesis. Although this subject has been thoroughly studied since the nineteenth century, and despite the fact that this type of material is currently of topical interest due to their use as smart materials in several fields of science and engineering, there is room for further research in this field, specially in topics concerning measurement and application of DeltaE- and DeltaΨ- effects. Throughout this work, several contributions can be found. First, a new experimental system for measuring both DeltaE- and DeltaΨ- effects, simultaneously, has been developed with new or improved features. Second, this new experimental system has been used to characterize in depth the three classical ferromagnetic materials, nickel, cobalt and iron, and also Terfenol-D, a special alloy which shows a great magnetoelastic response. Third, the influence of internal stresses on both DeltaE- and DeltaΨ- effects has been studied by means of different heat treatments applied to nickel specimens. And fourth, the more suitable materials regarding their DeltaE- and DeltaΨ- effects were selected and applied to novel ways of vibration control. The results obtained in the different parts of this thesis are, in our humble opinion, very valuable. Regarding the new experimental system, the improvements endow the method with notable advantages over other techniques, such as lack of mechanical or magnetic interaction with the specimen, high accuracy and resolution in magnetic field, speed of measurement, no need for sample preparation, possibility of studying stress dependence, full automation and integration of the measurement and post-processing stages. Regarding the measurement of DeltaE- and DeltaΨ- effects, our results agree with the literature but provide better accuracy. Terfenol-D shows the highest DeltaE-effect (95%), followed at a great distance by nickel (3.75%), cobalt (0.60%) and iron (0.22%), whereas the DeltaΨ-effect is high in all cases (40% in most cases, 80% in nickel). Regarding the influence of internal stress, it is stated that annealing treatments leading to lower internal stresses maximize the magnetoelastic behaviour of the material, as in the instance of nickel were the DeltaE- and DeltaΨ- effects were maximized from 3.75% to 13.00% and from 80% to 99.99%, respectively. Finally, regarding the vibration control problem, two different strategies were tested: passive control and adaptative-passive control. Both methods showed excellent results in terms of reduction of the establishing time in free vibration (63% with annealed nickel) and in terms of reduction of the magnification factor in forced vibration (34% with annealed nickel and 64% with Terfenol-D).

Characterization of nano structured metallic materials; Caracterizacion de materiales metalicos nanoestructurados

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Marin A, M.; Gutierrez W, C.; Cruz C, R.; Angeles C, C. [Instituto Nacional de Investigaciones Nucleares, A.P. 18-1027, 11801 Mexico D.F. (Mexico)

1997-07-01

Nowadays the search of new materials with specific optical properties has carried out to realize a series of experiments through the polymer synthesis [(C{sub 3}N{sub 3}){sub 2} (NH){sub 3}]{sub n} doped with gold metallic nanoparticles. The thermal stability of a polymer is due to the presence of tyazine rings contained in the structure. The samples were characterized by High Resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy, X-ray diffraction by the Powder method, Ft-infrared and its thermal properties by Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) and Thermogravimetry (TGA). One of the purposes of this work is to obtain nano structured materials over a polymeric matrix. (Author)

Caracterizacion dosimetrica del equipo de Terapia Superficial Therapax del Hospital Mexico

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Bernui De Vivanco, Maria Giselle; Rojas Rivas, Jorge; Cardenas Retuerto, Augusto

2007-01-01

The Servicio de Radioterapia of the Hospital Mexico in San Jose, Costa Rica has a Superficial Therapy equipment Therapax model DXT 300. It describes the measurements for the dosimetric characterization of the configurations 100 kVp, 25 mA and filter of 2.4 mm of Al, and 250 kVp, 10 mA and filter of 2.5 mm of Cu, taking into account that the uncertainties in the measurements of the superficial therapy equipment are higher than in the rank of the megavoltage [es

Modern aspects of diagnostics and monitoring of tape-toretinal degeneration

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Nekhorosheva А.А.

2017-06-01

Full Text Available Objective: to evaluate the informativity of clinical and instrumental methods of examining patients with tapetoretinal abiotrophy (TRA. Material and Methods. 45 patients with a diagnosis ofTRA, divided into 3 groups: 1 8 people (under 18 years; 2 20 people (19-40 years; 3 17 people (over 41 years. Performed: standard ophthalmological examination, computer perimetry (kinetic, static perimetry in the "Macula threashold 24-2bs" mode, OCULUS Twinfield device, fundus shots (TOPCON device, EPS* (Neuro-MEP device. Results. The average total value of the visual fields of the first group patients amounted to 394±23°, the second group has 173±26° result and the third group has 86±15° result. Mean deviation of the bacillary component of electroretinogram in the first group has reached 53.8±10.4%, 70.2±4.3% in the second group and 84.7±7.3% in the third group. As for the rhythmic component, the indicators were following: 20.3±4.3%, 41.6±5.2%, 62.3±6.4% in the first, second and the third groups respectively. The data of static perimetry showed a decrease in the average photosensitivity in the central parts with respect to the population's age. According to the data of ophthalmoscopy the bony bodies' remoteness of the location from the center of the fundus corresponds to the degree of narrowing of the field of vision. Conclusion. There is a significant relationship between the total value of the peripheral boundaries of the visual field, electroretinogram data and perimetry.

Electroretinographic findings in transplant chorioretinopathy

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Brian T Chan-Kai

2010-07-01

Full Text Available Brian T Chan-Kai1, Steven Yeh2, Richard G Weleber2, Peter J Francis2, Grazyna Adamus2, S Robert Witherspoon3, Andreas K Lauer11Cullen Eye Institute, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas; 2Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon; 3Retina Institute of Texas, Dallas, Texas, USAAim: Transplant chorioretinopathy is a rare complication following solid organ or bone ­marrow transplantation and can result in severe vision loss. This series presents electroretinogram (ERG results in patients with this condition.Methods: Patients who presented with bilateral vision loss following bone marrow or solid organ transplantation were identified. A complete ophthalmologic examination, fundus ­photography, and fluorescein angiography (FA were performed. Full-field ERG was obtained in all patients and a multifocal ERG (mfERG was obtained in two patients.Results: Four patients were identified. All patients had bilateral vision loss and displayed a characteristic pattern of mottled hyperfluorescence on FA. Three patients developed ­progressive vision loss ranging from 20/60 to hand motions whereas one retained 20/40 vision. All patients exhibited moderate to severe cone dysfunction, while the degree of rod abnormalities was varied. Two patients with severe cone dysfunction showed mild clinical changes initially, but later developed progressive vision loss and chorioretinal atrophy.Conclusion: Transplant chorioretinopathy patients undergoing ERG testing show cone ­dysfunction with a variable degree of rod dysfunction. ERG abnormalities preceded the visual acuity and clinical changes in two patients, suggesting that ERG may be a helpful predictor of the clinical course in this rare disease.Keywords: transplant, chorioretinopathy, electroretinogram, ERG, mfERG

Retinoschisislike alterations in the mouse eye caused by gene targeting of the Norrie disease gene.

Science.gov (United States)

Ruether, K; van de Pol, D; Jaissle, G; Berger, W; Tornow, R P; Zrenner, E

1997-03-01

To investigate the retinal function and morphology of mice carrying a replacement mutation in exon 2 of the Norrie disease gene. Recently, Norrie disease mutant mice have been generated using gene targeting technology. The mutation removes the 56 N-terminal amino acids of the Norrie gene product. Ganzfeld electroretinograms (ERGs) were obtained in five animals hemizygous or homozygous for the mutant gene and in three female animals heterozygous for the mutant gene. As controls, three males carrying the wild-type gene were examined. Electroretinogram testing included rod a- and b-wave V-log I functions, oscillatory potentials, and cone responses. The fundus morphology has been visualized by scanning laser ophthalmoscopy. Rod and cone ERG responses and fundus morphology were not significantly different among female heterozygotes and wild-type mice. In contrast, the hemizygous mice displayed a severe loss of ERG b-wave, leading to a negatively shaped scotopic ERG and a marked reduction of oscillatory potentials. The a-wave was normal at low intensities, and only with brighter flashes was there a moderate amplitude loss. Cone amplitudes were barely recordable in the gene-targeted males. Ophthalmoscopy revealed snowflakelike vitreal changes, retinoschisis, and pigment epithelium irregularities in hemizygotes and homozygotes, but no changes in female heterozygotes. The negatively shaped scotopic ERG in male mice with a Norrie disease gene mutation probably was caused by retinoschisis. Pigment epithelial changes and degenerations of the outer retina are relatively mild. These findings may be a clue to the embryonal retinoschisislike pathogenesis of Norrie disease in humans or it may indicate a different expression of the Norrie disease gene defect in mice compared to that in humans.

Macular function and morphology in acute retinal pigment epithelitis.

Science.gov (United States)

Gundogan, Fatih C; Diner, Oktay; Tas, Ahmet; Ilhan, Abdullah; Yolcu, Umit

2014-12-01

A 20-year-old man applied with vision loss in the left eye. Right eye examination was unremarkable. Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) in the left eye was 20/200. Fundus examination revealed a few yellow spots within a round-shaped macular lesion. Autofluorescence imaging showed hyperautofluorescence in the lesion. Central amplitudes in multifocal electroretinogram (mfERG) were depressed. The patient reported a rhinopharyngitis 7-10 days before the visual loss. The patient was diagnosed as acute retinal pigment epithelitis. BCVA improved gradually up to 20/20 in 4 weeks. mfERG amplitudes returned to normal. A slight pigmentary distortion was the only residual fundus finding.

The determination of dark adaptation time using electroretinography in conscious miniature Schnauzer dogs.

Science.gov (United States)

Yu, Hyung-Ah; Jeong, Man-Bok; Park, Shin-Ae; Kim, Won-Tae; Kim, Se-Eun; Chae, Je-Min; Yi, Na-Young; Seo, Kang-Moon

2007-12-01

The optimal dark adaptation time of electroretinograms (ERG's) performed on conscious dogs were determined using a commercially available ERG unit with a contact lens electrode and a built-in light source (LED-electrode). The ERG recordings were performed on nine healthy Miniature Schnauzer dogs. The bilateral ERG's at seven different dark adaptation times at an intensity of 2.5 cd.s/m(2) was performed. Signal averaging (4 flashes of light stimuli) was adopted to reduce electrophysiologic noise. As the dark adaptation time increased, a significant increase in the mean a-wave amplitudes was observed in comparison to base-line levels up to 10 min (p Schnauzer dogs.

The Influence of Brightness on Functional Assessment by mfERG

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Christiansen, A T; Kiilgaard, J F; Smith, M

2012-01-01

To determine the effect of membrane brightness on multifocal electroretinograms (mfERGs), we implanted poly lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) membranes in the subretinal space of 11 porcine eyes. We compared membranes with their native shiny white color with membranes that were stained with a blue dye...... (Brilliant Blue). Histological and electrophysiological evaluation of the overlying retina was carried out 6 weeks after implantation. Histologically, both white and blue membranes degraded in a spongiform manner leaving a disrupted outer retina with no preserved photoreceptor segments. Multifocal ERG...... when the adjacent photoreceptors are missing. Functional assessment with mfERG in scaffold implant studies should therefore be evaluated with care....

Reduction on OFF-responses of Electroretinogram in Monkeys with Long-term High Intraocular Pressure

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Ke-Gao Liu

2017-01-01

Conclusions: Reduced OFF-responses are recorded in monkeys with high IOP when dysfunction of photoreceptor is involved. The reduced OFF-responses to long-flash stimulus show evidence of anomalous retinal circuitry in glaucomatous retinopathy.

Possible sources for hydrogen production in Mexico; Posibles fuentes de produccion de hidrogeno en Mexico

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Vazquez Esparza Mata, Esther; Perez Garcia, Edgar C. [Facultad de Ingenieria, Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico, Mexico, D.F. (Mexico)

2004-06-15

In agreement with the Secretaria de Energia, Mexico consumed daily in year 2000, 1.7 millions of oil barrels and according to numbers of PEMEX the proven reserves to December 31 of that year, ascended to 12,312 million barrels, obviously the consumption and the reserves will change through the time, but making a calculation these reserves will be sufficient only for 20 years, on the other hand according to PEMEX Gas y Petroquimica Basica numbers, the present natural gas reserves are sufficient to supply the demand during 22 years, with these data we can have an approximate calculation of 20 years of fossil fuel supply, to this stage we can name it the period of power transition, when this time interval is over we will have an eminent power crisis and it will be necessary to count already on new power alternatives, which have a sustainable development and which will have to be ready at by the end of the next 20 years. One of the most viable alternatives is obtaining energy from hydrogen, this is the most abundant element in the universe, near 75% is constituted by it, but it is not found in pure state in nature. In order to determine certain state it is necessary to investigate about the processes for the hydrogen obtaining, the reforming of natural gas, the natural gas reserves, the natural gas distribution and the integrated gasification. [Spanish] De acuerdo con la Secretaria de Energia, Mexico consumio en el ano 2000, 1.7 millones de barriles diarios de petroleo y segun cifras de PEMEX las reservas probadas al 31 de diciembre de ese ano ascienden a 12,312 millones de barriles, obviamente el consumo y las reservas cambiaran a traves del tiempo, pero haciendo un calculo estas reservas seran suficientes unicamente para 20 anos, por otro lado segun cifras de PEMEX Gas y Petroquimica basica las reservas de gas natural actuales son suficientes para abastecer la demanda durante 22 anos, con estos datos podemos tener un calculo aproximado de 20 anos de abastecimiento de

Using the horseshoe crab, Limulus Polyphemus, in vision research.

Science.gov (United States)

Liu, Jiahui S; Passaglia, Christopher L

2009-07-03

The American horseshoe crab, Limulus Polyphemus is one of the oldest creatures on earth, and the animal continues to play an indispensable role in biomedical research. Not only does their blood contain special cells that scientists use to detect bacteriotoxins in our medicines, but their eyes also contain a neural network that has provided much insight about physiological processes operating in our visual system, such as light adaptation and lateral inhibition. The horseshoe crab remains an attractive model for vision research because the animal is large and hardy for an invertebrate, its retinal neurons are big and easily accessible, its visual system is compact and extensively studied, and its visual behavior is well defined. Moreover, the structure and function of the eyes are modulated on a daily basis by a circadian clock in the animal s brain. In short, the visual system of horseshoe crabs is simple enough to be understood yet complex enough to be interesting. In this video we present three electrophysiological paradigms for investigating the neural basis of vision that can be performed in vivo with Limulus. They are electroretinogram recording, optic nerve recording, and intraretinal recording. Electroretinogram (ERG) recordings measure with a surface electrode the summed electrical response of all cells in the eye to a flash of light. They can be used to monitor the overall sensitivity of the eye for prolong periods of time. Optic nerve recordings measure the spiking activity of single nerve fibers with an extracellular microsuction electrode. They can be used to study visual messages conveyed from the eye to the brain as well as circadian-clock messages fed back from the brain to the eye. Intraretinal recordings measure with an intracellular microelectrode the voltage fluctuations induced by light in individual cells of the eye. They can be used to elucidate cellular mechanisms of retinal processing.

Transcriptome analysis and RNA interference of cockroach phototransduction indicate three opsins and suggest a major role for TRPL channels

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Andrew S French

2015-07-01

Full Text Available Our current understanding of insect phototransduction is based on a small number of species, but insects occupy many different visual environments. We created the retinal transcriptome of a nocturnal insect, the cockroach, Periplaneta americana to identify proteins involved in the earliest stages of compound eye phototransduction, and test the hypothesis that different visual environments are reflected in different molecular contributions to function. We assembled five novel mRNAs: two green opsins, one UV opsin, and one each TRP and TRPL ion channel homologs. One green opsin mRNA (pGO1 was 100-1000 times more abundant than the other opsins (pGO2 and pUVO, while pTRPL mRNA was 10 times more abundant than pTRP, estimated by transcriptome analysis or quantitative PCR (qPCR. Electroretinograms were used to record photoreceptor responses. Gene-specific in vivo RNA interference (RNAi was achieved by injecting long (596-708 bp double-stranded RNA into head hemolymph, and verified by qPCR. RNAi of the most abundant green opsin reduced both green opsins by more than 97% without affecting UV opsin, and gave a maximal reduction of 75% in ERG amplitude seven days after injection that persisted for at least 19 days. RNAi of pTRP and pTRPL genes each specifically reduced the corresponding mRNA by 90%. Electroretinogram reduction by pTRPL RNAi was slower than for opsin, reaching 75% attenuation by 21 days, without recovery at 29 days. pTRP RNAi attenuated ERG much less; only 30% after 21 days. Combined pTRP plus pTRPL RNAi gave only weak evidence of any cooperative interactions. We conclude that silencing retinal genes by in vivo RNAi using long dsRNA is effective, that visible light transduction in Periplaneta is dominated by pGO1, and that pTRPL plays a major role in cockroach phototransduction.

Quantitative and Topographical Analysis of the Losses of Cone Photoreceptors and Retinal Ganglion Cells Under Taurine Depletion.

Science.gov (United States)

Hadj-Saïd, Wahiba; Froger, Nicolas; Ivkovic, Ivana; Jiménez-López, Manuel; Dubus, Élisabeth; Dégardin-Chicaud, Julie; Simonutti, Manuel; Quénol, César; Neveux, Nathalie; Villegas-Pérez, María Paz; Agudo-Barriuso, Marta; Vidal-Sanz, Manuel; Sahel, Jose-Alain; Picaud, Serge; García-Ayuso, Diego

2016-09-01

Taurine depletion is known to induce photoreceptor degeneration and was recently found to also trigger retinal ganglion cell (RGC) loss similar to the retinal toxicity of vigabatrin. Our objective was to study the topographical loss of RGCs and cone photoreceptors, with a distinction between the two cone types (S- and L- cones) in an animal model of induced taurine depletion. We used the taurine transporter (Tau-T) inhibitor, guanidoethane sulfonate (GES), to induce taurine depletion at a concentration of 1% in the drinking water. Spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) and electroretinograms (ERG) were performed on animals after 2 months of GES treatment administered through the drinking water. Retinas were dissected as wholemounts and immunodetection of Brn3a (RGC), S-opsin (S-cones), and L-opsin (L-cones) was performed. The number of Brn3a+ RGCs, and L- and S-opsin+ cones was automatically quantified and their retinal distribution studied using isodensity maps. The treatment resulted in a significant reduction in plasma taurine levels and a profound dysfunction of visual performance as shown by ERG recordings. Optical coherence tomography analysis revealed that the retina was thinner in the taurine-depleted group. S-opsin+cones were more affected (36%) than L-opsin+cones (27%) with greater cone cell loss in the dorsal area whereas RGC loss (12%) was uniformly distributed. This study confirms that taurine depletion causes RGC and cone loss. Electroretinograms results show that taurine depletion induces retinal dysfunction in photoreceptors and in the inner retina. It establishes a gradient of cell loss depending on the cell type from S-opsin+cones, L-opsin+cones, to RGCs. The greater cell loss in the dorsal retina and of the S-cone population may underline different cellular mechanisms of cellular degeneration and suggests that S-cones may be more sensitive to light-induced retinal toxicity enhanced by the taurine depletion.

Biological effects of blocking blue and other visible light on the mouse retina.

Science.gov (United States)

Narimatsu, Toshio; Ozawa, Yoko; Miyake, Seiji; Kubota, Shunsuke; Yuki, Kenya; Nagai, Norihiro; Tsubota, Kazuo

2014-08-01

To elucidate the biological effects of blocking fluorescent light on the retina using specific blocking materials. Seven- to 8-week-old BALB/c mice were divided into three groups and placed in one of the three boxes: one blocked ultraviolet and violet wavelengths of light (violet blockade), one blocked ultraviolet, violet, blue and some other visible wavelengths (blue-plus blockade), and one allowed most visible light to pass through (control). They were then exposed to a white fluorescent lamp for 1 h at 5.65E-05 mW/cm(2) /s. After treatment, the electroretinogram, retinal outer nuclear layer thickness and retinal outer segment length were measured. In addition, retinal apoptotic cells were quantified by TdT-mediated dUTP nick-end labelling assay and c-Fos messenger RNA, and protein levels were measured by real-time reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction and immunoblot analyses, respectively. The blue-plus blockade group retained a significantly better electroretinogram response following light exposure than the control or violet blockade groups. The blue-plus blockade group also exhibited greater outer nuclear layer thickness and greater outer-segment length, and fewer apoptotic cells after light exposure than the other groups. The c-Fos messenger RNA and protein levels were substantially reduced in the blue-plus blockade group and reduced to a lesser extent in the violet blockade group. The blockade of blue plus additional visible wavelengths of light was most effective in protecting the retina from light-induced damage. The blockade of violet light alone was also effective in reducing intracellular molecular responses, but these effects were not sufficient for attenuating retinal degeneration. © 2013 Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists.

CARACTERIZACION MOLECULAR DE LOS HAPIOGRUPOS DE DNA MITOCONDRIAL EN LA ENFERMEDAD CELIACA

OpenAIRE

PARADA DAZA, ALEJANDRA CRISTINA

2010-01-01

La enfermedad celiaca (EC), es un desorden autoinmune intestinal crónico con un fuerte componente genético, asociado a genes HLA-002 o HLA-008. La prevalencia en Europa de la EC se estima en el 1%, sin embargo en América del Sur no hay una estimación de la prevalencia de EC y no se conoce si la étina se relaciona con la baja frecuencia de la enfermedad o simplemente es el reflejo del subdiagóstico en la zona. El análisis de la presencia de genes nativos se puede realizar a través de la búsque...

ENZIMAS LIPOLITICAS DE KRILL ANTARTICO: PURIFICACION Y CARACTERIZACION, ENZIMAS ADAPTADAS AL FRIO?.

OpenAIRE

BARRIGA GONZALEZ, ANDRES ANTONIO; BARRIGA GONZALEZ, ANDRES ANTONIO

2006-01-01

La temperatura es uno de los factores ambientales más importantes para la vida, siendo los ambientes fríos los que presentan la mayor distribución en la biosfera. Diferentes organismos han desarrollado diversas estrategias de tolerancia y adaptación al fr 160p.

Characterization of radioactive organic liquid wastes; Caracterizacion de desechos liquidos organicos radiactivos

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Hernandez A, I.; Monroy G, F.; Quintero P, E.; Lopez A, E.; Duarte A, C., E-mail: ivonne-arce@hotmail.com [ININ, Carretera Mexico-Toluca s/n, 52750 Ocoyoacac, Estado de Mexico (Mexico)

2014-10-15

With the purpose of defining the treatment and more appropriate conditioning of radioactive organic liquid wastes, generated in medical establishments and research centers of the country (Mexico) and stored in drums of 208 L is necessary to characterize them. This work presents the physical-chemistry and radiological characterization of these wastes. The samples of 36 drums are presented, whose registrations report the presence of H-3, C-14 and S-35. The following physiochemical parameters of each sample were evaluated: ph, conductivity, density and viscosity; and analyzed by means of gamma spectrometry and liquid scintillation, in order to determine those contained radionuclides in the same wastes and their activities. Our results show the presence of H-3 (61%), C-14 (13%) and Na-22 (11%) and in some drums low concentrations of Co-60 (5.5%). In the case of the registered drums with S-35 (8.3%) does not exist presence of radioactive material, so they can be liberated without restriction as conventional chemical wastes. The present activities in these wastes vary among 5.6 and 2312.6 B g/g, their ph between 2 and 13, the conductivities between 0.005 and 15 m S, the densities among 1.05 and 1.14, and the viscosities between 1.1 and 39 MPa. (Author)

Caracterizacion y optimizacion electroquimica de dispositivos electrocromicos duales basados en polimeros conductores

Science.gov (United States)

Padilla Martinez, Javier

The aim of this thesis is to emphasize the existing relations between electrochemical processes, or electrochemical magnitudes, and colour changes. The work is focused on two aspects: individual spectroelectrochemical characterization of the constituent materials followed by an electrochemical and optical study of the performance of the dual system constructed with those materials. The objective is the optimization of both electrochemical and optical processes in dual conducting polymer systems, obtaining experimental methodologies able to characterize, predict, and finally design optimal dual electrochromic devices. The first part of the study is focused on the development of the proper methodology to obtain an optical characterization of any electrochromic material as a function of its electrochemical properties. Materials used were poly((3,4-ethylenedioxy)thiophene) (PEDOT) and poly-(3,6-bis(2-(3,4-ethylenedioxy)thienyl)-N-methylcarbazole) (PBEDOT-NMCz). PEDOT films are coloured under reduction, while PBEDOT-NMCz are coloured under oxidation, showing complementary colouration, and so they can be used to construct a dual electrochromic device. Based on the obtained experimental results, a theoretical study was undertaken to establish the optical responses of a system comprising several electrochromic layers. The theoretically obtained relations were experimentally proved. Relations obtained allow the prediction of the maximum contrast configuration for a dual system, as a function of the individual electrochemical properties of each constituent material. The system studied was PEDOT/PBEDOT-NMCz. The third chapter deals with the proposal and development of a new experimental methodology able to register the individual oxidation states of each electrode during operation of a dual device, obtaining then direct information about device performance. This methodology allows the study of the influence of different physical and chemical variables, like ratio of redox charge between both constituent films, applied potential to the device and initial oxidation state of the constituent polymer films, on the device performance. The final objective of this work is the construction of electrochromic devices that can be use in real applications out of research or academic contexts. It is necessary then, for safety purposes, to use solid electrolytes in the cell. For final applications it is also required to construct devices of appropriate dimensions. In the fourth chapter, the construction and study of large dimensions and solid state devices for the system PEDOT/PBEDOT-NMCz was carried out. The information obtained in previous sections was used to determine maximum contrast combinations. Problems related to electrodeposition of conducting polymers on large surfaces (around 30 cm2) are discussed, together with the optimization of switching speeds when a solid electrolyte is used. Finally the ability to tune colour states and retain them in the absence of an external potential applied was studied and discussed. The last section deals with the study of two new cathodically colouring polymers, poly(3-(Biphenyl-4-ylmethoxymethyl)-3,4-dihydro-2H-thieno(3,4-b)-(1,2)dioxepine) (BPMOM-ProDOT) and poly-dibenzylProDOT (PDiBz-ProDOT), which have been reported to show larger contrasts than PEDOT. For this reason, dual cells were constructed and checked by combination of these two polymers with PBEDOT-NMCz. The methodology previously developed and used to characterize PEDOT and PBEDOT-NMCz was applied to these polymers. The developed theoretical equations were used to determine the maximum contrast for both systems. Finally, the use of standard optical magnitudes as photopic values is emphasized. Photopic values are standardized by the Commission Internationale de l'Eclairage (CIE), and correspond to real sensations perceived by the human eye, whose sensitivity is different for each wavelength. In this sense the use of photopic values, instead of values corresponding to a single wavelength, is encouraged. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)

METODOLOGIA DE CARACTERIZACION CONCEPTUAL POR CONDICIONAMIENTOS SUCESIVOS. UNA APLICACION A SISTEMAS MEDIOAMBIENTALES.

OpenAIRE

PEREZ BONILLA, ALEJANDRA

2009-01-01

En clasificación automática se buscan perfiles subyacentes a la estructura de un dominio que ayude a comprenderlo y permita una mejor toma de decisiones. Por ello comprender el significado de las clases resulta fundamental. Por otro lado la validación de un cluster sigue siendo un problema abie~to por no haberse encontrado aún un criterio objetivo para determinar la calidad de un conjunto de clases en el contexto del clusteríng (Hand 1996), que se aplica en situaciones en las que no hay un bu...

Effect of carotenoid supplementation on plasma carotenoids, inflammation and visual development in preterm infants.

Science.gov (United States)

Rubin, L P; Chan, G M; Barrett-Reis, B M; Fulton, A B; Hansen, R M; Ashmeade, T L; Oliver, J S; Mackey, A D; Dimmit, R A; Hartmann, E E; Adamkin, D H

2012-06-01

Dietary carotenoids (lutein, lycopene and β-carotene) may be important in preventing or ameliorating prematurity complications. Little is known about carotenoid status or effects of supplementation. This randomized controlled multicenter trial compared plasma carotenoid levels among preterm infants (n=203, lutein, lycopene and β-carotene with human milk (HM)-fed term infants. We assessed safety and health. Plasma carotenoid levels were higher in the supplemented group at all time points (Plutein levels correlated with the full field electroretinogram-saturated response amplitude in rod photoreceptors (r=0.361, P=0.05). The supplemented group also showed greater rod photoreceptor sensitivity (least squares means 6.1 vs 4.1; Plutein on preterm retina health and maturation.

Encapsulation and re-use of wood industry waste: varnish powder

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Acosta, A.

2006-06-01

Full Text Available The present article describes the findings of the first stageof the analysis of xiloarcilla, a material made of clayand a wood industry by-product, namely the wood andpolyurethane varnish powder pump-suctioned off woodcomponents during sanding and polishing. This powderwas added to the clay in proportions of from 1% to 5%by weight. The prime materials as well as the xiloarcillacompound were characterized, in the latter case primarilyto determine its physical-mechanical properties andchemical and environmental feasibility as a constructionmaterial.En este articulo se presentan los resultados obtenidos,en una primera etapa, del estudio del material que denominaremoscomo xiloarcilla, compuesto por arcilla y porun subproducto de las industrias de la madera, que eneste caso son los polvos del lijado y del barnizado y excedentesde estos productos utilizados en el acabado demuchos componentes de madera (PLB, estos polvos seadicionaron a la arcilla en cantidades entre el 1% y el5% del peso total del compuesto. Se realizo un estudiode caracterizacion de los materiales aislados y posteriormentedel compuesto xiloarcilla, con enfasis en el comportamientofisico-mecanico y su respuesta quimica ymedioambiental, como material de construccion.

Lo que todo practicante de la psicología debe saber sobre las personas ateas y el ateísmo

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Alfonso Martínez-Taboas

2011-01-01

Full Text Available En este escrito los autores hacen una revisión de datos relevantes a las características socio demográficas de las personas ateas y a los supuestos psicológicos que han sido esbozados por diversos psicólogos/ as sobre esta población. Los autores documentan las formas en que históricamente las personas ateas han sido encuadradas dentro de la psicología clínica, como neuróticas e inestables. Sin embargo, la evidencia de estudios publicados en las últimas décadas no apoya tales caracterizaciones. Al contrario, muchas personas ateas no sólo no presentan psicopatología, sino que muestran flexibilidad cognitiva al momento de pasar juicio social sobre otros grupos minoritarios. Se demuestra también que a nivel macro-social, las sociedades en el mundo que son más seculares poseen mejores parámetros de salud social. Los autores proponen que los practicantes de la psicología deben de conocer más a fondo las particularidades e idiosincrasias de las personas ateas para ofrecerles un servicio psicológico libre de estereotipos y prejuicios.

Photoacoustic investigation of the effective diffusivity of two-layer semiconductors

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Medina, J; Gurevich, Yu. G; Logvinov G, N; Rodriguez, P; Gonzalez de la Cruz, G. [Instituto Mexicano del Petroleo, Mexico, D.F. (Mexico)

2001-08-01

In this work, the problem of the effective thermal diffusivity of two-layer systems is investigated using the photoacoustic spectroscopy. The experimental results are examined in terms of the effective thermal parameters of the composite system determined from an homogeneous material which produces the same physical response under an external perturbation in the detector device. It is shown, that the effective thermal conductivity is not symmetric under exchange of the two layers of the composite; i.e., the effective thermal parameters depend upon which layer is illuminated in the photoacoustic experiments. Particular emphasis is given to the characterization of the interface thermal conductivity between the layer-system. [Spanish] En el presente trabajo se utiliza la espectroscopia fotoacustica para medir la difusividad termica de un sistema de dos capas. Los resultados experimentales son analizados en terminos de los parametros termicos efectivos determinados a partir de un material homogeneo, el cual produce la misma respuesta fisica bajo una perturbacion externa. Se puso particular enfasis en la caracterizacion de los efectos de interfase en el flujo de calor en el sistema de dos capas. Los resultados experimentales se comparan con el modelo teorico propuesto en este trabajo.

Pampa Húmeda, Argentina

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Néstor C. Di Leo

2007-01-01

Full Text Available La radiación fotosintéticamente activa (PAR es importante como variable de entrada de energía en diversos procesos biológicos y su evaluación temporal tiene particular interés en el monitoreo de cultivos. Los datos de reflectancia espectral, obtenidos mediante sensores remotos, son adecuados para proporcionar observaciones de fenómenos que se relacionan con aspectos ecofisiológicos de las cubiertas vegetales, incluyendo a la productividad primaria neta (NPP. Ésta constituye una de las pocas fuentes de información acerca de los procesos del ciclo del carbono en escalas regionales o globales. La NPP se relaciona con la eficiencia del uso de la luz a través de la radiación fotosintéticamente activa absorbida (APAR y representa un indicador agroecológico de utilidad para valorar la utilización productiva del territorio. El objetivo de este trabajo es presentar un aporte metodológico a la agroecología, mediante las caracterizaciones de la NPP y la APAR, en tres situaciones geográficas y productivas de la Pampa Húmeda, Argentina.

Super plastic forming of the Cd-17.4 Zn alloy; Conformado superplastico de la aleacion Cd-17.4 Zn

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Llanes Briceno, J. A.; Torres Villasenor, G. [Instituto de Investigaciones en Materiales, UNAM, Mexico, D.F. (Mexico)

2000-06-01

In the present work the necessary steps to carry on the superplastic forming of the Cd-17.4 Zn alloy are defined. The use of either atmospheric pressure or gas pressure as forming tools is analyzed. The optimum values of the variables involved (temperature, maximum strain and sensitivity index) are determined while a method for the characterization of future superplastic alloys is set forth. The experimental characterization of the superplastic forming is achieved with free bulging of circular membranes of 12, 16, 24, 32 and 40 mm in diameter and with three different membrane thicknesses (0.4, 0.6 and 0.8 mm). [Spanish] Se definen los pasos necesarios para el conformado superplastico de la aleacion Cd-17.4Zn. Se comparan la presion atmosferica y el gas a presion como herramientas de conformado. Se determinan los valores optimos de las variables involucradas (temperatura, deformacion maxima e indice de sensibilidad) y se plantea una metodologia para la caracterizacion de futuras aleaciones superplasticas. El conformado superplastico se caracteriza experimentalmente mediante el inflado libre de membranas circulares de 12, 16, 24, 32 y 40 mm de diametro y tres diferentes espesores (0.4, 0.6 y 0.8 mm).

Una mirada sobre lo popular. Reflexiones sobre el etnocentrismo en el nuevo cine argentino

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Gonzalo Assusa

2013-01-01

Full Text Available La emergencia del nuevo cine argentino desata una serie de debates teóricos. Probablemente una de las caracterizaciones más convincentes es la que lo define como surgido de una misma crisis, no sólo en el campo cinematográfico, sino también de una misma crisis social. En el marco de un análisis sociológico de este fenómeno cultural, el presente trabajo planteará una hipótesis de lectura para algunas de las producciones audiovisuales del denominado nuevo cine argentino, en pos de establecer conceptualmente la estructuración desde el polo productivo de la elaboración imaginaria de esta crisis social, concretamente, de la emergencia de las clases populares en sus filmes. Para finalizar, se evaluará la productividad de la hipótesis de lectura basada en una definición teórica de lo popular, aplicándola a un cuerpo de filmes del realizador argentino Adrián Caetano, para concluir con reflexiones sobre la importancia del cruce entre la estructuración textual y la estructuración en el momento del consumo.

A 77 K MOS magnetic field detector

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Murphy, R S; Torres, A. [Instituto Nacional de Astrofisica Optica y Electronica, Puebla (Mexico); Garcia, P.J. [Universidad Veracruzana, Veracruz (Mexico); Gutierrez, E.A. [Motorola, Puebla (Mexico)

2001-12-01

An integrated MOS (metal-oxide-semiconductor)-compatible magnetic field detector (split-drain MAGFET) for operation at liquid-nitrogen temperature LNT (77 K) is presented. The measured relative magnetic sensibility (S{sub a}) is approximately 14%/T (double the value ever reported) using a non-optimized MAGFET structure (W/L) = (100 mm/125 mm). The cryo-magnetic structure was tested without a built-in preamplifier. It presents a power consumption of the order of mW. [Spanish] A traves de este articulo se presenta un detector de campo magnetico (split-drain MAGFET), basado en el transistor de efecto de campo MOS (metal-oxido-semiconductor), y totalmente compatible con procesos de fabricacion de circuitos integrados CMOS. La operacion optima de este detector es a temperaturas criogenicas. Aqui se presentan los resultados experimentales de la caracterizacion de una estructura no optimizada con dimensiones (W / L) = (100 mm/125 mm) a la temperatura del nitrogeno liquido (77 K). La sensibilidad relativa medida es de cerca del 14 % T, casi el doble del valor maximo antes reportado en la literatura. El dispositivo se midio sin un pre-amplificador integrado, mostrando un consumo de potencia del orden de microwatts.

A Temporal White Noise Analysis for Extracting the Impulse Response Function of the Human Electroretinogram.

Science.gov (United States)

Zele, Andrew J; Feigl, Beatrix; Kambhampati, Pradeep K; Aher, Avinash; McKeefry, Declan; Parry, Neil; Maguire, John; Murray, Ian; Kremers, Jan

2017-11-01

We introduce a method for determining the impulse response function (IRF) of the ERG derived from responses to temporal white noise (TWN) stimuli. This white noise ERG (wnERG) was recorded in participants with normal trichromatic vision to full-field (Ganzfeld) and 39.3° diameter focal stimuli at mesopic and photopic mean luminances and at different TWN contrasts. The IRF was obtained by cross-correlating the TWN stimulus with the wnERG. We show that wnERG recordings are highly repeatable, with good signal-to-noise ratio, and do not lead to blink artifacts. The wnERG resembles a flash ERG waveform with an initial negativity (N1) followed by a positivity (P1), with amplitudes that are linearly related to stimulus contrast. These N1 and N1-P1 components showed commonalties in implicit times with the a- and b-waves of flash ERGs. There was a clear transition from rod- to cone-driven wnERGs at ∼1 photopic cd.m -2 . We infer that oscillatory potentials found with the flash ERG, but not the wnERG, may reflect retinal nonlinearities due to the compression of energy into a short time period during a stimulus flash. The wnERG provides a new approach to study the physiology of the retina using a stimulation method with adaptation and contrast conditions similar to natural scenes to allow for independent variation of stimulus strength and mean luminance, which is not possible with the conventional flash ERG. The white noise ERG methodology will be of benefit for clinical studies and animal models in the evaluation of hypotheses related to cellular redundancy to understand the effects of disease on specific visual pathways.

Desarrollo de la ingenieria basica de una planta industrial para extraccion con CO2 liquido. I. Extractores

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GOLDENBERG Julio Fernando

1998-01-01

Full Text Available En base a los resultados obtenidos en una unidad piloto cuyo diseño, montaje y puesta en operación fueron realizados con la finalidad de poder producir el cambio de escala, se dio inicio al proyecto de una planta de producción con características modulares por su flexibilidad operativa en cuanto a capacidad de producción y tipo de materia prima. Se desarrolló la ingeniería conceptual, consistente en la definición de las bases de diseño; las diferentes etapas del proceso, la capacidad de producción a instalar, los rangos de trabajo de las variables operativas, el régimen, la especificación de los materiales de construcción, características de la carga, materiales auxiliares y tipo de instrumentación y control. La ingeniería básica, especificación de equipos y componentes auxiliares, para: alimentación de CO2, bombeo y presurización, acondicionamiento térmico, extracción, separación fluido/extracto, medida y control del caudal, temperatura y presión, se encuentra en una etapa avanzada de ejecución. Se ha comenzado con la ingeniería de detalle de extractores con diferente capacidad.

Supresión de modos de vibración acústicos con un resonador Helmholtz

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Guiguet Andrés

2003-01-01

Full Text Available La inserción de un Resonador Helmholtz (RH en las paredes laterales de un tubo, con ondas estacionarias en su interior, logra suprimir uno o más de sus modos resonantes si se elige adecuadamente la frecuencia del resonador. El RH puede actuar también como filtro de ondas propagantes.' En este caso, el RH atenua las ondas en un rango de frecuencia muy selectivo. En la mayoría de los textos de acústica, solamente se desarrolla la teoría que explica el filtrado de ondas propagantes. Sin embargo, en los laboratorios de física basica, donde se dispone solamente de tubos de Kundt de pequeña longitud, no es simple realizar un arreglo experimental que asegure la presencia de ondas propagantes puras en su interior. La falta de una teoría para ondas estacionarias y las dificultades experimentales que señalamos han producido algunas confusiones en trabajos que tratan sobre el tema. En este artículo se presenta un modelo teórico que describe satisfactoriamente el comportamiento del RH cuando funciona como filtro de ondas estacionarias y se marcan las diferencias con la situación en que opera como filtro de ondas propagantes.

Polymorphic New World monkeys with more than three M/L cone types

Science.gov (United States)

Jacobs, Gerald H.; Deegan, Jess F.

2005-10-01

Most New World (platyrrhine) monkeys have M/L cone photopigment polymorphisms that map directly into individual variations in visual sensitivity and color vision. We used electroretinogram flicker photometry to examine M/L cone photopigments in the New World monkey Callicebus moloch (the dusky Titi). Like other New World monkeys, this species has an M/L cone photopigment polymorphism that reflects the presence of X-chromosome opsin gene alleles. However, unlike other platyrrhines in which three M/L photopigments are typical, Callicebus has a total of five M/L cone photopigments. The peak sensitivity values for these pigments extend across the range from 530 to 562 nm. The result is an enhanced array of potential color vision phenotypes in this species.

Unilateral blindness with third cranial nerve palsy and abnormal enhancement of extraocular muscles on magnetic resonance imaging of orbit after the ingestion of methanol.

Science.gov (United States)

Chung, Tae Nyoung; Kim, Sun Wook; Park, Yoo Seok; Park, Incheol

2010-05-01

Methanol is generally known to cause visual impairment and various systemic manifestations. There are a few reported specific findings for methanol intoxication on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain. A case is reported of unilateral blindness with third cranial nerve palsy oculus sinister (OS) after the ingestion of methanol. Unilateral damage of the retina and optic nerve were confirmed by fundoscopy, flourescein angiography, visual evoked potential and electroretinogram. The optic nerve and extraocular muscles (superior rectus, medial rectus, inferior rectus and inferior oblique muscle) were enhanced by gadolinium-DTPA on MRI of the orbit. This is the first case report of permanent monocular blindness with confirmed unilateral damage of the retina and optic nerve, combined with third cranial nerve palsy after methanol ingestion.

Prevalence of generalized retinal dystrophy in Denmark

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Bertelsen, Mette; Jensen, Hanne; Bregnhøj, Jesper F

2014-01-01

of this study was to examine the prevalence and diagnostic spectrum of generalized retinal dystrophy in the Danish population. METHODS: A population-based cross-sectional study with data from the Danish Retinitis Pigmentosa Registry that comprises all patients in Denmark with generalized retinal......PURPOSE: Generalized retinal dystrophy is a frequent cause of visual impairment and blindness in younger individuals and a subject of new clinical intervention trials. Nonetheless, there are few nation-wide population-based epidemiological data of generalized retinal dystrophy. The purpose...... and chorioretinal dystrophies from the 19th century to the present. Among 3076 registered cases, the primary diagnosis of generalized retinal dystrophy was assessed by chart review, including fundus photographs and electroretinograms. Demographic data on the Danish population were retrieved from Statistics Denmark...

A Case of Dengue Maculopathy with Spontaneous Recovery

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Fiona Oi-jing Luk

2013-06-01

Full Text Available Purpose: To report a case of dengue maculopathy, which resolved spontaneously without treatment. Methods: A 25-year-old female patient with good past health was admitted to a general hospital in Hong Kong with fever of unknown origin after traveling to Indonesia. Based on the clinical features and a positive real-time polymerase chain reaction for dengue virus type 1, she was diagnosed with dengue fever. The patient developed dengue maculopathy mainly affecting the vision of her left eye. Abnormalities on a multifocal electroretinogram showed bilateral involvement. Results: As there is no proven treatment for dengue maculopathy, the patient opted for observation. Her vision returned to normal within 3 weeks. Conclusion: Dengue maculopathy can cause severe visual loss and may resolve without treatment.

Clinical study of electrophysiological changes of optic nerves in early period of type 1 diabetes mellitus

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Quan-Liang Zhao

2016-07-01

Full Text Available AIM:To investigate the value of pattern visual evoked potential(PVEPand flash electroretinogram(FERGin early diagnosis and prevention of diabetic retinopathy(DR, analyzing the correlation of early stage DR with PVEP and FERG.METHODS:Sixty patients, 30 males and 30 females, participated in observation group. Their average age was 19.42±7.78years. The duration of DM was RESULTS:In observation group, P100 amplitude decreased and P100 latency increased, compared to those of control group(PPCONCLUSION: PVEP are sensitive to optic neuron damage; FERG is desirable to detect the lesion of Müller cells and bipolar cells. P100 amplitude by PVEP, b-wave amplitude by FERG may be the most sensitive parameter for DR at early stage.

CARACTERIZACION FISICOQUIMICA DEL MANGO COMUN (Mangifera indica L. DURANTE SU PROCESO DE MADURACION

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VICTOR QUINTERO C

Full Text Available El proceso de maduración del mango está gobernado bajo una serie de reacciones bioquímicas al interior del fruto que se caracterizan por cambios en la textura, color, en el contenido de azúcares, ácidos, aromas, entre otros. Las sustancias acumuladas durante el desarrollo se transforman de manera lenta y progresiva hasta que el fruto alcanza las condiciones de aroma y jugosidad que permita clasificarlo como maduro. Se realizó una cinética de maduración durante nueve días, determinando parámetros físicos y químicos como color en pulpa y en cáscara, textura, actividad de agua, sólidos solubles, pH y acidez titulable. Se modeló cinéticamente el comportamiento de cada una estas variables y se pudo determinar que los sólidos solubles tienen una tendencia explicada con un modelo de regresión multiplicativo y la actividad de agua con un modelo de regresión reciproco de X mientras el pH y la acidez con una ecuación de regresión de raíz cuadrada de X, de la misma manera el cambio de color en cáscara y en pulpa presento una regresión reciproca de X. Por último en el caso de la textura se observó y se ajustó modelos lineales tanto para cáscara como para pulpa.

Caracterizacion de musculos artificiales con capacidades sensores/actuadores e intercambio mayoritario de cationes

Science.gov (United States)

Valero Conzuelo, Laura Luz

Over the past decade scientific research has been looking for new biomimetic materials able to imitate human organs behaviour, in such a way that is possible to apply them on different technologies: low cost ones, scalable ones, low energy consumption ones and on those with high potentialities in areas such as health, robotics, artificial nerves and muscles, among others. Most of the studied materials mimic the extracellular matrix (ECM) of living cells and its physical functions. Now, and for the first time, conducting polymers, and other electroactive materials exchange ions and water through electrochemical reactions: the material becomes a dense electroactive gel. The content of mentioned gel and the reactions happening in it mimic, by the first time in the history of science, the composition (in its simplest expression) and reactions taking place in the reactive intracellular matrix of the functional cells of living beings. During the chemical reactions (oxidation or reduction) the gel relative composition (polymer-ion-water) shifts, in a reversible way, by several orders of magnitude. Along with it several composition-dependent properties of the material change simultaneously. The reversible variation of the material volume driven by the reactions mimics the natural muscles behaviour: artificial polymeric muscles, or polymeric electrochemical actuators, based on this property are being developed. With the material composition the consumed energy change as a function thermal, chemical or mechanical conditions. This fact is used for the development of sensors and biosensors. The material volume and the material potential shift, simultaneously, during the reaction. Here the possibility to develop dual sensing-actuators is explored: two elements working concurrently in the same, physically uniform, device mimicking haptic muscles. In this thesis the electrochemical synthesis of thick polypyrrole/DBS films is described. The electrochemical behaviour of the polymer film, used as a self-supported electrode, is characterized assuming the exchange of cations during its oxidation/reduction. For the electrochemical characterization of biomimetic films of polypyrrole/DBS, different electrochemical techniques are used and under different experimental conditions with the view to understanding the sensing potentialities of the material reactions. The study and electrochemical characterization of the motion of pPy/DBS//tape bilayer bending actuators corroborates that the reaction is driven by the expulsion of cations from the conducting polymer to the electrolyte during oxidation and its entrance during reduction, in the full potential range studied. The actuator is a faradaic device controlled by the electrochemical reaction driving the movement: the rate of the angular movement is a linear function (easy control of the velocity) of the applied current and the described angle by the displacement is a linear function of the consumed charge (it also provides another easy control of the displacement). The evolution of the muscle potential and that of the consumed electrical energy during the reaction senses the energetic working conditions: chemical energy (electrolyte concentration), thermal energy (working temperature) or electric energy (applied current). The polymeric motor senses, while working, environmental conditions. The sensing calibration curves were attained for the different sensors. They have been constructed and characterized triple-layer artificial muscles pPy/DBS//Tape//pPy/DBS, corroborating again the exchange of cations during the reaction, the faradic nature of the device and the ability of the device to sense, while moving, its environmental working conditions mimicking natural haptic muscles. The actuator (current and charge) and sensing (muscle potential and involved energy) signals are simultaneously present in only two connecting wires, mimicking brain-muscle intercommunication. The study of polymeric materials with cationic and/or ionic exchange opens the possibility of working in a future, using also anion-exchange materials, to develop new soft, wet, biomimetic and multifunctional tools and robots. Ionic, chemical, thermal and mechanical signals can be transformed into electrical ones and the involved information is transported using just two wires, simplifying in that way their connection to computers: the design of devices and robots having them heralds a more efficient technology.

Tecnicas avanzadas de medida en intensimetria acustica para la caracterizacion de materiales aislantes

Science.gov (United States)

Munuera Saura, Gregorio

The measurement rate of acoustic reduction (R) in an insulating material is determined in special designed enclosures according to UNE EN ISO 140-1 standard. The construction of a testing room that complies with the standards requires a significant financial investment, that too often can not be provided by general machinery manufacturers. The outdoor machines have to be designed considering the noise emission limits established in the European Directive 2000/14, making the installment of insulating materials in enclosures of machines necessary. Suppliers of insulating materials for industrial use does not normally provide the insulating properties of their products, which are often obtained from rock wool, polyethylene, polyurethane, synthetic rubber, etc. It is difficult to test these materials that are characterized by low density surface in a room standardized test procedure that is based on the measurement of sound pressure. The main problem is getting the validation of the measurement when the rate of acoustic reduction is relatively low, as in the case of materials mentioned above. An alternative procedure is proposed in this Doctoral Thesis based on the measurement of sound intensity. The vector nature of this parameter allows just the flow of energy through a given surface to be measured. The validation of the measurement is achieved with the highest degree of accuracy by applying the criteria included in the standard UNE EN ISO 9614. A steel plate 6 mm thick incorporated with a sound source for amplification of a pink noise signal is designed for carrying out the tests. Faced with the source is placed a piece of material to test. The source is connected and the transmitted sound intensity is measured with a probe consisting of two microphones located opposite one another. Previously it has been determined the flow of acoustic energy that impinges on the piece. The difference between the two measures provides directly the rate of acoustic reduction. The main advantage of the described test procedure is that it can be done in a room with normal dimensions and without specific conditioning. The vibroacoustic behaviour of the testing box and its influence on the measures is another important aspect to be considered. A test of modal analysis has been carried out with a steel plate similar to the enclosures of the box. A mathematical model based on the Statistical Energy Analysis SEA has been developed to estimate the paths of energy transmission from the sound source to the point of measurement with the sound intensity probe. The commercial software AUTOSEA2 LT is used. General conclusions regarding the alternative method of measurement and specific ones related to the capacity of insulation of the tested materials have been obtained. As for the general conclusions, the limitations of measuring with the intensity probe at low and high frequencies have been proved, validating measurements with an accuracy of 0.5 dB according to the criteria set forth in the standard UNE EN ISO 9614 Part 3 have been obtained, and a new test procedure for easy determination of the rate of acoustic reduction of an insulating material with low density surface has been established. Finally, the devised procedure allows future developments in the field of vibroacoustics, such as the application of the principle of reciprocity and the determination of acoustic impedance of materials by application of techniques for measuring of acoustics intensity.

CARACTERIZACION DE UN MINERAL DE COBRE EN ARGENTINA PARA LA PRODUCCION DE MATTE.

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VANESA BAZÁN

2011-01-01

Full Text Available Argentina, posee minerales cuyas reservas la potencian para constituirse en un fuerte abastecedor regional. Actualmente, se han realizado proyectos de exploraciones y explotación de minerales de cobre que poseen una ley entre 0,5% y 0,8% generalmente libre de impurezas como Sb, As, Pb, Bi y Hg. [1, 2, 3, 4] Este hecho indicaría que puede existir un gran potencial para el desarrollo de la pirometalurgia del cobre, dado que hasta el momento no existen avances en este sentido. En este trabajo se presentan resultados de un estudio realizado sobre un mineral de baja ley de Cu, en el cual se identifi can sus fases mediante microscopía óptica, ensayos de fl otación contemplando diferentes condiciones, con el objetivo de obtener concentrados de distintas calidades. Finalmente, para comprender aspectos del proceso de obtención del cobre se realiza una simulación del proceso de fusión en el horno fl ash basado en balances de masa y energía.

Modelizacion, simulacion y caracterizacion acustica de materiales para su uso en acustica arquitectonica

Science.gov (United States)

Julia Sanchis, Ernesto

The global objective of this thesis consists on evaluating the viability of applying new sound absorbent materials that attempt, on one hand, to be an alternative to those materials classically used (as mineral wools) and, on the other hand, to offer a solution to one of the most important problems: the use of waste products of the textile industries by means of the recycled. For carrying out this study, some of the parameters that allow to characterize the acoustic behaviour of sound absorbent materials (such as the acoustic impedance, the acoustic absorption coefficient and the flow resistivity, among other) have been studied. Different experimental methods used to obtain these acoustic parameters have also been described. Among the methods presented in this work, the attention has been focused in those based on the acoustic impedance tube (Kundt tube). This technique presents advantages, for example, that only a small space in the laboratory is required as well as the samples of the testing materials are of small dimensions. The study has settled on three fundamental pillars: mathematical modelization, acoustic characterization of materials and numerical simulation. In the first place, after reviewing the main models and theories used in the acoustic evaluation of the porous and fibrous sound absorbent materials, a new mathematical model has been proposed and its validity is demonstrated for the type of studied materials. With regard to the acoustic characterization, diverse campaigns of measurements have been carried out with the purpose of obtaining the acoustic absorption coefficient and the flow resistivity of different type of materials. Finally, by means of a computer program based on the finite element method, the technique of the numerical simulation has been applied with the purpose of contrasting the obtained results experimentally, as well as for the evaluation of one of the most significant industrial applications from the acoustic point of view: the acoustic filters, that are devices designed to reduce the acoustic emission in a tube (as the expansion chambers in the exhaust pipes of the combustion engines). In a first phase of the study, it is observed that the obtained results agree with the experience and, in a second phase, a parametric study to evaluate the efficiency of this type of components is carried out. The numerical simulation presents the advantage of carrying out these studies without necessity of building the real models, with the saving in cost and time that this supposes. In this work, it has been sought to contribute to the knowledge of the acoustic behaviour of different type of materials and devices that are used to improve the acoustic isolation and acoustic conditioning.

β1-adrenergic receptor stimulation by agonist Compound 49b restores insulin receptor signal transduction in vivo

Science.gov (United States)

Jiang, Youde; Zhang, Qiuhua; Ye, Eun-Ah

2014-01-01

Purpose Determine whether Compound 49b treatment ameliorates retinal changes due to the lack of β2-adrenergic receptor signaling. Methods Using retinas from 3-month-old β2-adrenergic receptor-deficient mice, we treated mice with our novel β1-/β2-adrenergic receptor agonist, Compound 49b, to assess the effects of adrenergic agonists acting only on β1-adrenergic receptors due to the absence of β2-adrenergic receptors. Western blotting or enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) analyses were performed for β1- and β2-adrenergic receptors, as well as key insulin resistance proteins, including TNF-α, SOCS3, IRS-1Ser307, and IRTyr960. Analyses were also performed on key anti- and proapoptotic proteins: Akt, Bcl-xL, Bax, and caspase 3. Electroretinogram analyses were conducted to assess functional changes, while histological assessment was conducted for changes in retinal thickness. Results A 2-month treatment of β2-adrenergic receptor-deficient mice with daily eye drops of 1 mM Compound 49b, a novel β1- and β2-adrenergic receptor agonist, reversed the changes in insulin resistance markers (TNF-α and SOCS3) observed in untreated β2-adrenergic receptor-deficient mice, and concomitantly increased morphological integrity (retinal thickness) and functional responses (electroretinogram amplitude). These results suggest that stimulating β1-adrenergic receptors on retinal endothelial cells or Müller cells can compensate for the loss of β2-adrenergic receptor signaling on Müller cells, restore insulin signal transduction, reduce retinal apoptosis, and enhance retinal function. Conclusions Since our previous studies with β1-adrenergic receptor knockout mice confirmed that the reverse also occurs (β2-adrenergic receptor stimulation can compensate for the loss of β1-adrenergic receptor activity), it appears that increased activity in either of these pathways alone is sufficient to block insulin resistance–based retinal cell apoptosis. PMID:24966659

The Time Course of Deafness and Retinal Degeneration in a Kunming Mouse Model for Usher Syndrome.

Science.gov (United States)

Yao, Lu; Zhang, Lei; Qi, Lin-Song; Liu, Wei; An, Jing; Wang, Bin; Xue, Jun-Hui; Zhang, Zuo-Ming

2016-01-01

Usher syndrome is a group of autosomal recessive diseases characterized by congenital deafness and retinitis pigmentosa. In a mouse model for Usher syndrome, KMush/ush, discovered in our laboratory, we measured the phenotypes, characterized the architecture and morphology of the retina, and quantified the level of expression of pde6b and ush2a between postnatal (P) days 7, and 56. Electroretinograms and auditory brainstem response were used to measure visual and auditory phenotypes. Fundus photography and light microscopy were used to measure the architecture and morphology of the retina. Quantitative real-time PCR was used to measure the expression levels of mRNA. KMush/ush mice had low amplitudes and no obvious waveforms of Electroretinograms after P14 compared with controls. Thresholds of auditory brainstem response in our model were higher than those of controls after P14. By P21, the retinal vessels of KMush/ush mice were attenuated and their optic discs had a waxy pallor. The retinas of KMush/ush mice atrophied and the choroidal vessels were clearly visible. Notably, the architecture of each retinal layer was not different as compared with control mice at P7, while the outer nuclear layer (ONL) and other retinal layers of KMush/ush mice were attenuated significantly between P14 and P21. ONL cells were barely seen in KMush/ush mice at P56. As compared with control mice, the expression of pde6b and ush2a in KMush/ush mice declined significantly after P7. This study is a first step toward characterizing the progression of disease in our mouse model. Future studies using this model may provide insights about the etiology of the disease and the relationships between genotypes and phenotypes providing a valuable resource that could contribute to the foundation of knowledge necessary to develop therapies to prevent the retinal degeneration in patients with Usher Syndrome.

The Time Course of Deafness and Retinal Degeneration in a Kunming Mouse Model for Usher Syndrome.

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Lu Yao

Full Text Available Usher syndrome is a group of autosomal recessive diseases characterized by congenital deafness and retinitis pigmentosa. In a mouse model for Usher syndrome, KMush/ush, discovered in our laboratory, we measured the phenotypes, characterized the architecture and morphology of the retina, and quantified the level of expression of pde6b and ush2a between postnatal (P days 7, and 56. Electroretinograms and auditory brainstem response were used to measure visual and auditory phenotypes. Fundus photography and light microscopy were used to measure the architecture and morphology of the retina. Quantitative real-time PCR was used to measure the expression levels of mRNA. KMush/ush mice had low amplitudes and no obvious waveforms of Electroretinograms after P14 compared with controls. Thresholds of auditory brainstem response in our model were higher than those of controls after P14. By P21, the retinal vessels of KMush/ush mice were attenuated and their optic discs had a waxy pallor. The retinas of KMush/ush mice atrophied and the choroidal vessels were clearly visible. Notably, the architecture of each retinal layer was not different as compared with control mice at P7, while the outer nuclear layer (ONL and other retinal layers of KMush/ush mice were attenuated significantly between P14 and P21. ONL cells were barely seen in KMush/ush mice at P56. As compared with control mice, the expression of pde6b and ush2a in KMush/ush mice declined significantly after P7. This study is a first step toward characterizing the progression of disease in our mouse model. Future studies using this model may provide insights about the etiology of the disease and the relationships between genotypes and phenotypes providing a valuable resource that could contribute to the foundation of knowledge necessary to develop therapies to prevent the retinal degeneration in patients with Usher Syndrome.

VALORIZACIÓN DE RESIDUOS AGROINDUSTRIALES DEL TEQUILA PARA ALIMENTACION DE RUMIANTES

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Clementina R. Ramírez-Cortina

2012-01-01

Full Text Available El objetivo de este trabajo fue investigar una tecnología adecuada para el uso del bagazo de Agave tequilana W. var. azul en raciones alimenticias para rumiantes. Las características físicas y químicas del bagazo fueron evaluadas. De acuerdo con dichas caracterizaciones, éste puede ser utilizado como complemento en la alimentación de rumiantes. Sin embargo, un inconveniente es la baja digestibilidad del bagazo, debido a su alto contenido de lignina; para disminuirlo se usó un tratamiento con hidróxido de calcio. El tratamiento químico se realizó en un reactor de vidrio (50 L con las siguientes condiciones: concentraciones de Ca(OH2 de 2, 5 y 10 %, humedad del bagazo de 20 y 80 %, temperaturas de 30 y 50 °C. Las pruebas de digestibilidad se realizaron en el bagazo tratado químicamente. La digestibilidad aumentó de 36 % (bagazo no tratado a 54.5 % con el mejor tratamiento (humedad 80 %, Ca(OH2 10 %, y 50 °C. Con base en los resultados de digestibilidad, se puede concluir que el bagazo tratado con Ca(OH2 puede ser utilizado como suplemento en la composición de las raciones alimenticias de los rumiantes.

Crecimiento y caracterización de monocristales superconductores de alta temperatura crítica

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L. T. Corredor

2003-07-01

Full Text Available En este trabajo se presenta, detalladamente, el procedimiento para la implementación de la técnica de auto-flujo para el crecimiento de monocristales superconductores de alta temperatura crítica. Fueron producidos monocristales de las familias YBa2Cu3O7-δ y CaLaBaCu3O7-δ mediante dicha técnica. El carácter superconductor de los mismo se corroboró a través de mediciones de resistividad eléctrica y susceptibilidad magnética AC. Las características cristalográficas y morfológicas se estudiaron por medio de difracción de rayos X y microscopía electrónica de barrido (SEM, microscopía metalográfica y análisis de rayos X por dispersión de energía (EDX respectivamente. Los resultados de estas caracterizaciones muestran que todos los monocristales superconductores de YBa2Cu3O7-δ son de excelente calidad. Adicionalmente, se obtuvo una muestra de la composición de CaLaBaCu3O7-δ con buenas propiedades morfolóficas, lo cual evidenció crecimiento orientado en los planos (h k 0.

Study of a hybrid solar-electric oven to the curing composite materials used in aeronautics; Estudio de un horno hibrido solar-electrico para el curado de materiales compuestos utilizados en aeronautica

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Hernandez Roman, M. A.; Pineda Pinon, J.; Sanchez Sanchez, A. [CICATA - Unidad Queretaro, Santiago de Queretaro, Queretaro (Mexico)]. E-mail: mhernandezr0900@ipn.mx

2010-11-15

The study covers the curing of advanced composites in a hybrid solar electric oven. The furnace uses electricity from the grid power and solar energy provided by the heliostat concentrator system. The materials used in the experiments will be composite materials such as prepreg. The prepreg are fiberglass and carbon fiber. The resin used in the pre-impregnate will be epoxy resin. The work temperatures inside the furnace will be maximum 300 degrees Celsius. The obtained results will be useful to characterize the use of the solar energy and the characterize of the curing chamber. [Spanish] Se presenta el alcance para el estudio, el cual abarca el curado de materiales compuestos avanzados dentro de un horno hibrido solar electrico. El horno utilizara energia electrica suministrada por la red y energia solar suministrada por el sistema heliostato concentrador. Los materiales utilizados en los experimentos seran materiales compuestos tipo prepreg. Los prepreg seran de fibra de vidrio y de fibra de carbono. La resina utilizada en el preimpregando sera resina epoxica. Las temperaturas de trabajo dentro del horno seran como maximo de 300 grados centigrados. Los resultados obtenidos serviran para caracterizar el uso y aprovechamiento de la energia solar y la caracterizacion de la camara de curado.

Magnetic shape memory alloys: Basic properties and applications; Aleaciones magneticas con memoria de forma: propiedades basicas y aplicaciones

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Barandiaran, J. M.; Lazpita, P.; Guiterrez, J.; Garcia Arribas, A.; Feuchtwanger, J.; Asua, E.; Etxebarria, V.; Chernenko, V. A.

2010-07-01

These materials can undergo large deformations when subjected to external stresses when they are in the phase low temperature due to the super elasticity property. Super elasticity properties and memory effect form derived from the martensitic transformation, which thermoelastic transformation is involved in effort as well as temperature. The transformation autoacomodante called for a single crystal phase austenite gives rise to several crystals spontaneously martensite with their axes oriented in different directions to accommodate the deformation of the network. These crystals called variant or twins and their movement and change orientation gives rise to the super elasticity. (Author) 3 refs.

Personal Docente del Nivel Primario. Series Estadisticas Basicas: Colombia (Teaching Personnel in Primary Schools. Basic Statistics Series: Colombia).

Science.gov (United States)

Ministerio de Educacion Nacional, Bogota (Colombia). Instituto Colombiano de Pedagogia.

This document provides statistical data on the distribution and education of teacher personnel working in Colombian elementary schools between 1940 and 1968. The statistics cover the number of men and women, public and private schools, urban and rural location, and the amount of education of teachers. (VM)

Effects of Prenatal Alcohol Exposure on the Visual System of Monkeys Measured at Different Stages of Development

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Harrar, Vanessa; Elkrief, Laurent; Bouskila, Joseph

2017-01-01

Purpose: Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) is a developmental disease characterized by behavioral problems and physical defects including malformations of the eye and associated optical defects. How these malformations affect retinal functioning is not well known, although animal models have...... suggested that scotopic vision is particularly deficient. Age is also known to affect scotopic vision. Here, we determined the combined effects of age and fetal alcohol exposure (FAE) on retinal function using full-field electroretinograms (ERGs) in monkeys (Chlorocebus sabaeus). Methods: ERGs were recorded...... in monkeys aged 3- to 12-years old, at multiple flash intensities under scotopic and photopic conditions, and functions were fit to the amplitudes of the a- and b-waves. Results: We found that both age and alcohol exposure affected ERGs. In photopic ERGs, amplitudes increased with age, and were higher...

Pseudo retinitis pigmentosa in a case of missed intraocular foreign body.

Science.gov (United States)

Temkar, Shreyas; Mukhija, Ritika; Venkatesh, Pradeep; Chawla, Rohan

2017-07-31

A 35-year-old man presented with history of painless, progressive loss of vision in the left eye for the past 7 years. There was history of trauma to the same eye with an iron object 7 years prior. Fundus examination revealed pigmentary retinopathy (unilateral advanced retinitis pigmentosa (RP)-like picture). X-ray orbits were suspicious of retained intraocular foreign body (IOFB). CT orbits confirmed the presence of IOFB. Electroretinogram revealed depressed responses. Right eye examination was within normal limits. A diagnosis of siderosis bulbi with unilateral pseudo RP-like fundus was made. No surgical intervention was planned for IOFB in view of poor visual prognosis. © BMJ Publishing Group Ltd (unless otherwise stated in the text of the article) 2017. All rights reserved. No commercial use is permitted unless otherwise expressly granted.

Acute Zonal Occult Outer Retinopathy with Atypical Findings

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Dimitrios Karagiannis

2014-01-01

Full Text Available Background. To report a case of acute zonal occult outer retinopathy (AZOOR with atypical electrophysiology findings. Case Presentation. A 23-year-old-female presented with visual acuity deterioration in her right eye accompanied by photopsia bilaterally. Corrected distance visual acuity at presentation was 20/50 in the right eye and 20/20 in the left eye. Fundus examination was unremarkable. Visual field (VF testing revealed a large scotoma. Pattern and full-field electroretinograms (PERG and ERG revealed macular involvement associated with generalized retinal dysfunction. Electrooculogram (EOG light rise and the Arden ratio were within normal limits bilaterally. The patient was diagnosed with AZOOR due to clinical findings, visual field defect, and ERG findings. Conclusion. This is a case of AZOOR with characteristic VF defects and clinical symptoms presenting with atypical EOG findings.

Prevalence and Diagnostic Spectrum of Generalized Retinal Dystrophy in Danish Children

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Bertelsen, Mette; Jensen, Hanne; Larsen, Michael

2013-01-01

Abstract Purpose: The aim of the present population-based cross-sectional study was to examine the prevalence and diagnostic spectrum of generalized retinal dystrophy in Danish children. Methods: The Danish Registry for the Blind and Partially Sighted Children comprises all visually impaired......: Of the 1,204,235 Danish children aged 0-17 years on 1 October 2011, 2017 children were registered as visually impaired. Of these, 153 cases were attributed to generalized retinal dystrophy, corresponding to a prevalence of 13 per 100,000 children. The age-specific prevalence increased prominently...... children residing in Denmark aged 0-17 years. Among registered children, the primary diagnosis of generalized retinal dystrophy was assessed by chart review, including fundus photographs and electroretinograms. Age-specific data for live children in Denmark were retrieved from Statistics Denmark. Results...

O seguimento da saúde da criança pré-termo e de baixo peso egressa da terapia intensiva neonatal

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Cláudia Silveira Viera

2009-01-01

Full Text Available El objetivo de este estudio es describir cómo ocurre el cuidado del niño prematuro y de bajo peso después de ser dado de alta de la unidad de cuidados intensivos neonatal, en lo que se refiere a su seguimiento y el de su familia en el hogar. Es un estudio descriptivo, con abordaje hermenéutico y comprensión de los datos a partir del análisis temático. La investigación se realizó en la ciudad de Cascavel-PR, con seis familias cuyos hijos fueron dados de alta de la unidad de cuidados intensivos neonatal, siendo acompañados por medio de visitas domiciliarias en los tres primeros meses después de haber sido dados de alta. Los relatos señalan aspectos del cuidado del niño en el hogar y las experiencias con los servicios de salud en la atención basica y especializada. Las familias mostraron su itinerario en los servicios de salud disponibles, en busca de la continuidad del cuidado del niño después de ser dado de alta. Ese itinerario se caracterizó por barreras de acceso, vínculo frágil y vulnerabilidad institucional, produciendo inseguridad, insatisfacción y falta de afecto en el seguimiento del niño.

Vortex Flipping in Superconductor-Ferromagnet Spin Valve Structures

Science.gov (United States)

Patino, Edgar J.; Aprili, Marco; Blamire, Mark; Maeno, Yoshiteru

2014-03-01

We report in plane magnetization measurements on Ni/Nb/Ni/CoO and Co/Nb/Co/CoO spin valve structures with one of the ferromagnetic layers pinned by an antiferromagnetic layer. In samples with Ni, below the superconducting transition Tc, our results show strong evidence of vortex flipping driven by the ferromagnets magnetization. This is a direct consequence of proximity effect that leads to vortex supercurrents leakage into the ferromagnets. Here the polarized electron spins are subject to vortices magnetic field occasioning vortex flipping. Such novel mechanism has been made possible for the first time by fabrication of the F/S/F/AF multilayered spin valves with a thin-enough S layer to barely confine vortices inside as well as thin-enough F layers to align and control the magnetization within the plane. When Co is used there is no observation of vortex flipping effect. This is attributed to Co shorter coherence length. Interestingly instead a reduction in pinning field of about 400 Oe is observed when the Nb layer is in superconducting state. This effect cannot be explained in terms of vortex fields. In view of these facts any explanation must be directly related to proximity effect and thus a remarkable phenomenon that deserves further investigation. Programa Nacional de Ciencias Basicas COLCIENCIAS (No. 120452128168).

Analysis of physicochemical properties of Mexican gasoline and diesel reformulated with ethanol; Analisis de las propiedades fisicoquimicas de gasolina y diesel mexicanos reformulados con etanol

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Castillo-Hernandez, Patricia; Mendoza-Dominguez, Alberto; Caballero-Mata, Porfirio [Tecnologico de Monterrey, Campus Monterrey, Nuevo Leon (Mexico)]. E-mails: pcastillohdz@gmail.com; mendoza.alberto@itesm.mx; pcaballe@itesm.mx

2012-07-15

presente trabajo muestra los resultados de la caracterizacion fisicoquimica de mezclas comerciales de gasolina (Magna y Premium) y diesel mexicanos con 10% y 15% de Etanol anhidro. Las principales pruebas que se realizaron a los combustibles fueron: Numero de Octano de Investigacion, Numero de Octano del Motor, Numero de Cetano, presion de vapor, curva de destilacion y poder calorifico. Asimismo, se documento la estabilidad de las mezclas formuladas. Con los datos de caracterizacion fisicoquimica obtenidos, se estimaron las emisiones teoricas de CO{sub 2} para cada una de las mezclas. Las mezclas de gasolina oxigenadas con Etanol presentaron un aumento en su Numero de Octano y un buen indice de Destilacion. El Numero de Cetano de las mezclas de diesel disminuyo considerablemente y el poder calorifico, tanto en las mezclas de gasolina como de diesel, se vio afectado negativamente con la adicion de Etanol. No obstante, y considerando los creditos por el uso de un combustible renovable, el uso de las mezclas de gasolina generadas implicaria una disminucion teorica maxima de 7.5% de las emisiones de CO{sub 2}, mientras que en el caso de las mezclas de diesel representaria un maximo de 9.2%.

Material for the storage of Mg-Ni-Based hydrogen produced by mechanical alloying; Materiales para almacenamiento de hidrogeno base Mg-Ni producidas por aleado mecanico

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Zaldivar-Cadena, A. A. [Universidad Autonoma de Nuevo Leon, San Nicolas de los Garza, Nuevo Leon (Mexico); Leon Santiago, M.; Suarez Alcantara, K.; Morales-Hernandez, J.; Cabanas Moreno, J. G. [Instituto Politecnico Nacional, UPALM, Mexico, D.F. (Mexico)]. E-mail: gcabanas@esfm.ipn.mx

2009-09-15

Combinations of Mg-5%Ni and Mg-20%Ni were prepared with mechanical alloying and evaluated for application as materials to store hydrogen. The effect of the dispersion of nickel in magnesium was studied using grinding times of 15 and 30 hours. Hydration experiments, including batch hydration tests, were performed at 200, 250 and 300 degrees Celsius at 2 Mpa during 30 minutes. Characterization techniques such as SEM-EDX and XRD were used to characterize the microstructure and composition of the powders. The hydrogen absorption-desorption characteristics of the alloys were evaluated using thermal analysis techniques such as DTA-TGA. Batch type preliminary experiments resulted in a variation in the quantities of MgH{sub 2} in the hydrate powders, depending on the hydrate composition and conditions. Gravimetry experiments with Mg-5%Ni powder combinations indicated hydrogen contents of approximately 5.59% - 6.12% in weight, showing rapid hydration kinetics at temperatures under 250 degrees Celsius; although the dehydration process occurred reasonably quickly only at temperatures between 250 and 300 degrees Celsius. The hydration/dehydration behavior is influenced by the tendency of forming Mg{sub 2}Ni in mechanically alloyed powders. This tendency is promoted by high Ni contents, long grinding times and high hydration temperatures. The best results are apparently obtained with an optimal balance of the dispersion of Ni, which depends on the Ni contents and grinding time. [Spanish] Mezclas de Mg-5%Ni y Mg-20%Ni fueron preparadas por aleado mecanico y evaluadas para su aplicacion como materiales para almacenamiento de hidrogeno. El efecto de la dispersion del niquel en el magnesio fue estudiado utilizando tiempos de molienda de 15 y 30 hrs. Experimentos de hidruracion incluyendo pruebas de hidruracion del tipo Batch fueron realizadas a 200, 250 y 300 grados centigrados a 2 Mpa durante 30 minutos. Tecnicas de caracterizacion como MEB-EDX y DRX fueron empleados en la

CARACTERIZACION DE LA PRODUCTIVIDAD PESQUERA DESARROLLADA EN LA COCHA JACINTO, RESERVA NACIONAL PACAYA SAMIRIA

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Javier del Águila Chávez

2011-12-01

Full Text Available El presente estudio describe las características de la productividad pesquera por un periodo de cuatro años  en la “cocha Jacinto”. La “cocha Jacinto” está ubicada en la Reserva Nacional Pacaya Samiria (RNPS (coordenadas UTM E 0623314 y N 9495909, Loreto, Perú. Los datos fueron recolectados a partir de fichas de registro de pesca llenadas por el propio pescador. La productividad pesquera se estimó por el número de individuos con mayor captura, captura por unidad de esfuerzo (CPUE  y biomasa bruta según consumo (BBC. Los datos fueron digitados y analizados utilizando el programa Microsoft Excel v. 2000.Durante el periodo 2006 – 2009: a Los individuos con mayor captura fueron la “Carachama” (Fam. Loricaridae, “sardina” (Fam. Characidae, “Fasaco” (Fam. Erythrinidae y “Shuyo” (Fam. Erythrinidae; b con respecto a la CPUE: 0.16 kg/hora,  0.15 kg/hora, 0.38 kg/hora y 0.65 kg/hora; y c la BBC osciló entre 56.85 kg, 45.81 kg, 202.04 kg y  81.63 kg, según respectivo año. Las diferencias de la CPUE indican un probable incremento de la producción pesquera. Sin embargo se necesitan mayores estudios para evaluar las dinámicas de la producción pesquera y evaluar factores sociales.  Limitación a considerar es la calidad de los datos recolectados

AISLAMIENTO Y CARACTERIZACION DE UNA LEVADURA FLOCULANTE PARA PRODUCIR ETANOL DEL BANANO DE RECHAZO

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CARLOS GUEVARA-BRAVO

Full Text Available Fue aislada y caracterizada una cepa de levadura Saccharomycescerevisiae LEG-06, con características floculantes para fermentar jugo de banano extraído bajo condiciones básicas. Los rendimientos de etanol fueron comparados con levaduras comerciales y además fueron evaluados los efectos del pH y del agente neutralizante. Adicionalmente se evaluó el efecto sobre la eficiencia de 10 fermentaciones sucesivas usando la misma levadura. Finalmente, se escaló la fermentación a 40 L en reactor tubular con agitación mecánica y se determinaron los parámetros cinéticos de la levadura. Las condiciones ideales fueron: pH 5,5 utilizando ácido cítrico como neutralizante, 23,8 g/L de levadura, 14,5°Brix. La eficiencia estuvo entre 82-84% y el pH óptimo de floculación entre 5,5 y 6,0. La concentración de etanol obtenido en las mejores condiciones alcanzó el 7,5%. Estos resultados demuestran la levadura como la metodología usada, presentan las características adecuadas y deseadas para desarrollar un proceso a nivel de planta piloto para la producción de etanol a partir de banano de rechazo.

Sampling and characterization of radioactive liquid wastes; Muestreo y caracterizacion de desechos liquidos radiactivos

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Zepeda R, C.; Monroy G, F.; Reyes A, T.; Lizcano, D. [ININ, Carretera Mexico-Toluca s/n, 52750 Ocoyoacac, Estado de Mexico (Mexico); Cruz C, A. C., E-mail: carla.zepeda@inin.gob.mx [SEP, Instituto Tecnologico de Orizaba, Av. Oriente 9, Col. Emiliano Zapata, 94320 Orizaba, Veracruz (Mexico)

2017-09-15

To define the management of radioactive liquid wastes stored in 200 L drums, its isotope and physicochemical characterization is essential. An adequate sampling, that is, representative and homogeneous, is fundamental to obtain reliable analytical results, therefore, in this work, the use of a sampling mechanism that allows collecting homogenous aliquots, in a safe way and minimizing the generation of secondary waste is proposed. With this mechanism, 56 drums of radioactive liquid wastes were sampled, which were characterized by gamma spectrometry, liquid scintillation, and determined the following physicochemical properties: ph, conductivity, viscosity, density and chemical composition by gas chromatography. 67.86% of the radioactive liquid wastes contains H-3 and of these, 47.36% can be released unconditionally, since it presents activities lower than 100 Bq/g. 94% of the wastes are acidic and 48% have viscosities <50 MPa s. (Author)

Sintesis y caracterizacion microestructural de aluminas obtenidas a partir de un precursor no convencional

Science.gov (United States)

Fillali, Laila

The rampant success of quantum theory is the result of applications of the 'new' quantum mechanics of Schrodinger and Heisenberg (1926-7), the Feynman-Schwinger-Tomonaga Quantum Electro-dynamics (1946-51), the electro-weak theory of Salaam, Weinberg, and Glashow (1967-9), and Quantum Chromodynamics (1973-); in fact, this success of 'the' quantum theory has depended on a continuous stream of brilliant and quite disparate mathematical formulations. In this carefully concealed ferment there lie plenty of unresolved difficulties, simply because in churning out fabulously accurate calculational tools there has been no sensible explanation of all that is going on. It is even argued that such an understanding is nothing to do with physics. A long-standing and famous illustration of this is the paradoxical thought-experiment of Einstein, Podolsky and Rosen (1935). Fundamental to all quantum theories, and also their paradoxes, is the location of sub-microscopic objects; or, rather, that the specification of such a location is fraught with mathematical inconsistency. This project encompasses a detailed, critical survey of the tangled history of Position within quantum theories. The first step is to show that, contrary to appearances, canonical quantum mechanics has only a vague notion of locality. After analysing a number of previous attempts at a 'relativistic quantum mechanics', two lines of thought are considered in detail. The first is the work of Wan and students, which is shown to be no real improvement on the iisu.al 'nonrelativistic' theory. The second is based on an idea of Dirac's - using backwards-in-time light-cones as the hypersurface in space-time. There remain considerable difficulties in the way of producing a consistent scheme here. To keep things nicely stirred up, the author then proposes his own approach - an adaptation of Feynman's QED propagators. This new approach is distinguished from Feynman's since the propagator or Green's function is not obtained by Feynman's rule. The type of equation solved is also different: instead of an initial-value problem, a solution that obeys a time-symmetric causality criterion is found for an inhomogeneous partial differential equation with homogeneous boundary conditions. To make the consideration of locality more precise, some results of Fourier transform theory are presented in a form that is directly applicable. Somewhat away from the main thrust of the thesis, there is also an attempt to explain, the manner in which quantum effects disappear as the number of particles increases in such things as experimental realisations of the EPR and de Broglie thought experiments.

CARACTERIZACION DE LA PRODUCTIVIDAD PESQUERA DESARROLLADA EN LA COCHA JACINTO, RESERVA NACIONAL PACAYA SAMIRIA

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Javier del Águila Chávez

2011-12-01

Full Text Available El presente estudio describe las características de la productividad pesquera por un periodo de cuatro años  en la “cocha Jacinto”. La “cocha Jacinto” está ubicada en la Reserva Nacional Pacaya Samiria (RNPS (coordenadas UTM E 0623314 y N 9495909, Loreto, Perú. Los datos fueron recolectados a partir de fichas de registro de pesca llenadas por el propio pescador. La productividad pesquera se estimó por el número de individuos con mayor captura, captura por unidad de esfuerzo (CPUE  y biomasa bruta según consumo (BBC. Los datos fueron digitados y analizados utilizando el programa Microsoft Excel v. 2000. Durante el periodo 2006 – 2009: a Los individuos con mayor captura fueron la “Carachama” (Fam. Loricaridae, “sardina” (Fam. Characidae, “Fasaco” (Fam. Erythrinidae y “Shuyo” (Fam. Erythrinidae; b con respecto a la CPUE: 0.16 kg/hora,  0.15 kg/hora, 0.38 kg/hora y 0.65 kg/hora; y c la BBC osciló entre 56.85 kg, 45.81 kg, 202.04 kg y  81.63 kg, según respectivo año. Las diferencias de la CPUE indican un probable incremento de la producción pesquera. Sin embargo se necesitan mayores estudios para evaluar las dinámicas de la producción pesquera y evaluar factores sociales.  Limitación a considerar es la calidad de los datos recolectados.

Volumetric and superficial characterization of carbon activated; Caracterizacion volumetrica y superficial de carbon activado

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Carrera G, L.M.; Garcia S, I.; Jimenez B, J.; Solache R, M.; Lopez M, B.; Bulbulian G, S.; Olguin G, M.T. [Departamento de Quimica, Gerencia de Ciencias Basicas, Instituto Nacional de Investigaciones Nucleares, A.P. 18-1027, 11801 Mexico D.F. (Mexico)

2000-07-01

The activated carbon is the resultant material of the calcination process of natural carbonated materials as coconut shells or olive little bones. It is an excellent adsorbent of diluted substances, so much in colloidal form, as in particles form. Those substances are attracted and retained by the carbon surface. In this work is make the volumetric and superficial characterization of activated carbon treated thermically (300 Centigrade) in function of the grain size average. (Author)

Unilateral retinitis pigmentosa occurring in an individual with a mutation in the CLRN1 gene.

Science.gov (United States)

Sim, Peng Yong; Jeganathan, V Swetha E; Wright, Alan F; Cackett, Peter

2018-03-15

This case report depicts the clinical course of a female patient with unilateral retinitis pigmentosa, who first presented at the age of 12 years. Fundus photography at the time revealed unilateral pigmentary retinopathy, which was associated with extinguished electroretinogram (ERG) signal. At 35 years of age, fundus examination revealed deterioration of pre-existing unilateral pigmentary retinopathy with progressive visual field defect detected on Goldmann visual field testing. ERG findings remained unchanged and multifocal ERG showed unilateral decrease in amplitude in the affected eye. The patient was referred for genetic counselling. Next-generation sequencing identified a deleterious heterozygous c.118T>G (p.Cys40Gly) mutation in the CLRN1 gene. © BMJ Publishing Group Ltd (unless otherwise stated in the text of the article) 2018. All rights reserved. No commercial use is permitted unless otherwise expressly granted.

Optic disc pit with sectorial retinitis pigmentosa.

Science.gov (United States)

Balikoglu-Yilmaz, Melike; Taskapili, Muhittin; Yilmaz, Tolga; Teke, Mehmet Yasin

2013-01-01

Sectorial retinitis pigmentosa (RP) and optic disc pit (ODP) are rare clinical conditions. We present a 40-year-old woman with a history of mild night blindness and decreased vision in the right eye for about 5 years. Fundus examination revealed retinal pigmentary changes in the superior and inferotemporal sectors covering the macula and reduced arterial calibre and ODP at the temporal edge of the optic disc. In addition, fundus autofluorescence, spectral-domain optical coherence tomography, fluorescein angiography, and multifocal electroretinogram scans confirmed these clinical findings. Visual acuity was decreased due to an atrophic-appearing foveal lesion. No intervention was suggested because of the poor visual potential. To the best of our knowledge, the present study is the first to describe coexistent optic disc pit and sectorial RP in the superior and inferotemporal sectors covering the macula in the same eye with figures.

Antiretinal antibody- proven autoimmune retinopathy

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Sharanya Abraham

2017-01-01

Full Text Available A young female presented with bilateral subacute onset of progressive decrease in night vision and reduced peripheral field of vision. The short duration and rapid progression of symptoms along with the lack of family history of night blindness prompted a diagnosis of autoimmune retinopathy (AIR. Fundus fluorescein angiography, optical coherence tomography, visual fields, and electroretinogram were suggestive of AIR. A differential diagnosis of retinitis pigmentosa (RP was also made. Antiretinal autoantibodies were detected in the blood sample. Treatment was with oral steroids and subsequently oral immunosuppressive agents. Visual acuity was maintained, fundus examination reverted to normal, and investigations repeated at every visit were stable with improvement in visual fields. Our case suggests that AIR, if diagnosed early and treated appropriately, may have a good outcome and should be considered in patients with an atypical presentation of RP.

[Transcranial magnetotherapy for the correction of initial manifestations of diabetic retinopathy in children].

Science.gov (United States)

Nikolaeva, N V; Bolotova, N V; Kamenskikh, T G; Raĭgorodskiĭ, Iu M; Kolbenev, I O; Luk'ianov, V F

2009-01-01

This study included 45 children at the age from 5 to 17 years with type I diabetes mellitus complicated by diabetic retinopathy. All the patients showed retinal thickening at the macula and reduced amplitude of local electroretinogram suggesting compromised capillary circulation. The capillary blood flow was corrected by transcranial magnetotherapy with the use of an AMO-ATOS Ogolovie unit. The results of the treatment were evaluated from characteristics of laser Doppler flometry. A course of transcranial magnetotherapy comprising 10 daily seances resulted in a significant increase of microcirculation index, respiratory rhythm, and myogenic tone (by 1.64, 1.35, and 1.16 times respectively). In addition, morphometric and electrophysiological properties of the retina underwent positive changes. Transcranial exposure to the traveling magnetic field is recommended for the correction of intraocular microcirculation and prevention of diabetic macular oedema.

Factores que inciden en el habito de fumar de escolares de educación basica y media del Chile

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Daniza Ivanovic M.

1997-01-01

Full Text Available INTRODUCCIÓN: Considerando la indiscutible evidencia de los efectos adversos del tabaco, para la salud, millones de personas continúan fumando. La situación es de mayor gravedad, ya que muchos de estos fumadores y la mayoría de los nuevos fumadores, tanto en Chile, como en otros países, son adolescentes. Los objetivos de este estudio fueron determinar la prevalencia de tabaquismo en escolares chilenos y cuantificar el impacto relativo que ejercen factores socioeconómicos, socioculturales, familiares, de exposición a medios de comunicación de masas, demográficos, educacionales y psicosociales, sobre la prevalencia de tabaquismo. MATERIAL E MÉTODO: Se seleccionó una muestra aleatoria, representativa de 2.967 escolares de educación básica y media de la Región Metropolitana de Chile, proporcional de acuerdo al curso(IV, VI, y VIII año básico y I y IV año medio, sexo, tipo de colegio y área geográfica. La prevalencia de tabaquismo se determinó mediante un cuestionario autoadministrado. El nivel socioeconómico(NSE se midió por medio del método de Graffar modificado, midiéndose además, las condiciones familiares, la exposición a medios de comunicación de masas y factores psicosociales. El rendimiento escolar se determinó mediante un test de castellano y matemáticas, al mismo tiempo que se registraron otras variables educacionales. El análisis estadístico incluyó análisis de varianza, test de la t de Student y test de Scheffe para comparación de medias, correlación, regresión múltiple stepwise, chi-cuadrado y la metodología del enfoque de riesgo de OPS/OMS, para el cálculo del riesgo relativo simple (RR. RESULTADOS: La prevalencia de tabaquismo (10,6% aumentó significativamente con la edad, de 1,3% en los escolares menores de 13 años, a 15,4% y 36,9%, en los adolescentes entre 13-15 años y ³ 16 años, respectivamente (p< 0,001, a la vez que fue mayor en los escolares de sexo femenino. El grado de placer(r=0,499 p<0,001, el grado de rebeldía(r=0,124 p<0,0001, el grado de recreación familiar (r=-0,131 p<0,0001 y el porcentaje de asistencia al colegio(r=-0,118 p< 0,0001, fueron las variables independientes con el mayor poder explicatorio en la varianza del tabaquismo (r²= 0,2860, pero el grado de placer fue la variable con el mayor poder explicatorio en la varianza explicada (89,2% y con el mayor RR (34,3. El impacto relativo de las variables independientes sobre el tabaquismo experimentó diferencias de acuerdo a la edad, sexo y NSE. CONCLUSIONES: Nuestros resultados han demonstrado que el grado de placer, el grado de rebeldía, el grado de recreación familiar y el porcentaje de asistencia al colegio, fueron las variables independientes que mayormente contribuyeron a explicar el tabaquismo. Estos hallazgos podrían ser de utilidad para las políticas educacionales y de salud focalizadas a la población escolar, con el objeto de prevenir este importante factor de riesgo para la salud de la población.

Factores que inciden en el habito de fumar de escolares de educación basica y media del Chile

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

M. Daniza Ivanovic

1997-02-01

Full Text Available INTRODUCCIÓN: Considerando la indiscutible evidencia de los efectos adversos del tabaco, para la salud, millones de personas continúan fumando. La situación es de mayor gravedad, ya que muchos de estos fumadores y la mayoría de los nuevos fumadores, tanto en Chile, como en otros países, son adolescentes. Los objetivos de este estudio fueron determinar la prevalencia de tabaquismo en escolares chilenos y cuantificar el impacto relativo que ejercen factores socioeconómicos, socioculturales, familiares, de exposición a medios de comunicación de masas, demográficos, educacionales y psicosociales, sobre la prevalencia de tabaquismo. MATERIAL E MÉTODO: Se seleccionó una muestra aleatoria, representativa de 2.967 escolares de educación básica y media de la Región Metropolitana de Chile, proporcional de acuerdo al curso(IV, VI, y VIII año básico y I y IV año medio, sexo, tipo de colegio y área geográfica. La prevalencia de tabaquismo se determinó mediante un cuestionario autoadministrado. El nivel socioeconómico(NSE se midió por medio del método de Graffar modificado, midiéndose además, las condiciones familiares, la exposición a medios de comunicación de masas y factores psicosociales. El rendimiento escolar se determinó mediante un test de castellano y matemáticas, al mismo tiempo que se registraron otras variables educacionales. El análisis estadístico incluyó análisis de varianza, test de la t de Student y test de Scheffe para comparación de medias, correlación, regresión múltiple stepwise, chi-cuadrado y la metodología del enfoque de riesgo de OPS/OMS, para el cálculo del riesgo relativo simple (RR. RESULTADOS: La prevalencia de tabaquismo (10,6% aumentó significativamente con la edad, de 1,3% en los escolares menores de 13 años, a 15,4% y 36,9%, en los adolescentes entre 13-15 años y ³ 16 años, respectivamente (p< 0,001, a la vez que fue mayor en los escolares de sexo femenino. El grado de placer(r=0,499 p<0,001, el grado de rebeldía(r=0,124 p<0,0001, el grado de recreación familiar (r=-0,131 p<0,0001 y el porcentaje de asistencia al colegio(r=-0,118 p< 0,0001, fueron las variables independientes con el mayor poder explicatorio en la varianza del tabaquismo (r²= 0,2860, pero el grado de placer fue la variable con el mayor poder explicatorio en la varianza explicada (89,2% y con el mayor RR (34,3. El impacto relativo de las variables independientes sobre el tabaquismo experimentó diferencias de acuerdo a la edad, sexo y NSE. CONCLUSIONES: Nuestros resultados han demonstrado que el grado de placer, el grado de rebeldía, el grado de recreación familiar y el porcentaje de asistencia al colegio, fueron las variables independientes que mayormente contribuyeron a explicar el tabaquismo. Estos hallazgos podrían ser de utilidad para las políticas educacionales y de salud focalizadas a la población escolar, con el objeto de prevenir este importante factor de riesgo para la salud de la población.

Fundamentos, Orientaciones, Areas Basicas y Procedimientos para la Investigacion Educativa (Bases, Guidelines, Basic Areas, and Procedures for Educational Research).

Science.gov (United States)

Ministerio de Educacion Nacional, Bogota (Colombia). Instituto Colombiano de Pedagogia.

This document establishes the bases, general guidelines, basic areas, and procedures for educational research conducted in Colombia. The philosophy underlying research objectives is explained. There is special interest in social research concerning the condition of man and of the social groups that will be the targets of education, and in research…

Procel in basic education: an analysis of Program effectiveness; PROCEL na educacao basica: uma analise da eficacia do programa

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Moura, Daniel de Andrade; Penteado, Claudio Luis de Camargo [Universidade Federal do ABC (UFABC), Santo Andre, SP (Brazil)

2010-07-01

This paper presents an approach to the National Program for Electricity Conservation (PROCEL), focusing on its sub-program PROCEL in basic education, in order to analyze its effectiveness. For this, there was a case study in a school where some teachers received training PROCEL for mounting the discipline PTC: technology and environment. The goal is to present data on the electricity consumption of the students before and after studying in the field, and observe possible changes in the use of electricity. The objective this paper to contribute to the improvement of the actions of PROCEL, or any other program that promotes the rational use of energy. (author)

Estimación del riesgo de sobrecalentamiento y del potencial de refrigeración por ventilación natural de viviendas unifamiliares en ciudades costeras de Chile.

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Massimo Palme

2016-12-01

Full Text Available Este trabajo presenta una propuesta de evaluación de la demanda de refrigeración y de la capacidad de refrigeración pasiva por ventilación natural en viviendas sociales. La propuesta se fundamenta en la EN ISO 13790:2008 que utiliza una metodología casi estacionaria de cálculo. Se evalúa una vivienda con ventanas de doble batiente en las dos fachadas, en las diferentes orientaciones N-S, E-O, NO-SE y NE-SO. Se suponen dos posibles caracterizaciones del interior: poco conectado y muy conectado. Los emplazamientos considerados presentan una variedad climática importante, desde los desiertos del norte hasta los climas con variabilidad estacional más marcada del centro- sur del País. Las ciudades consideradas en el estudio son: Arica, Iquique, Antofagasta, La Serena, Valparaíso, Concepción, Valdivia y Puerto Montt. Los resultados muestran la presencia de demanda de refrigeración en la mayoría de los emplazamientos analizados y una capacidad de evacuar el calor por ventilación natural media variable entre el 20% y el 80% de esta demanda, demostrando la importancia de la utilización de las brisas para la refrigeración de edificio y ciudades del País. 

El sector de los alimentos ecológicos: Regulación y etiquetado ecológico = The organic food sector: Regulation and ecological labeling

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María Belén Aguirre García

2016-06-01

Full Text Available El sector de los alimentos ecológicos y la evolución de su normativa están experimentando continuos cambios y ampliaciones acordes con los flujos económicos y comerciales de nuestros días. El objetivo del artículo, desde una metodología descriptiva, es reflejar esta evolución, presentando la regulación vigente, que es exhaustiva y abarca ámbitos diversos: sistemas de producción agraria ecológica, control y certificación de operadores, comercialización y etiquetado de los alimentos ecológicos. Asimismo, se abordan las diferentes caracterizaciones en la actualidad del etiquetado de los alimentos ecológicos en Europa, en España y en las Comunidades Autónomas.   The organic food sector and the evolution of its regulations are undergoing continuous changes and extensions in line with the economic and commercial flows of our day. The objective of the article, from a descriptive methodology, is to reflect this evolution, presenting the current regulation, which is exhaustive and covers different areas: ecological agricultural production systems, operator control and certification, marketing and labeling of organic food. It also addresses the different characterizations of organic food labeling in Europe, Spain and the “Comunidades Autónomas”.

Kinematic and geometric characterization of the fracturation in the Berrocal (Toledo, Spain)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Campos Egea, R.; Gumiel Martinez, P.; Pardillo Porras, J.

1995-01-01

The current research carried out it the El Berrocal Test Site belong to the ''Caracterizacion y validacion de los procesos de migracion de radionucleidos bajo condiciones reales en un medio granitico fracturado Project'', which is integrated in the ENRESA and EE R+D Programs aimed to establish the structural, lithological, geochemical, hydrochemical and hydrogeological aspects of the granite-Uranium mineralization system, to approach modelling of the U-Migration. The geometry and kinematics of fracturing which affect the El Berroal granite are shown in this paper. The kinematics of Late-Hercynian fractures is consistent with the development of an extension dilation zone off-set between the Meridional of Central System and Navamorcuente major faults, in a continued right-lateral shearing, accompanying E-W shortening in prolonged transpression. An statistical analysis of 1264 joints have been carried out. Joint spacing and aperture were also measured in profiles around the El Berrocal Test Site showing that joints may be grouped in three groups with orientations following Fisher distributions. Joint spacing shows fractal behaviour with a significant superimposed ramdon element (negative-exponential distribution) which is at present being evaluated. Finally, fracture trace mapping and detected fracture zones in boreholes from TLV data have been geometrically correlated and utilized to asses fracture connectivity. Connected networks of fractures have been obtained, which is a support fort further hydraulic tests carried out in the Porject. (Author) 53 refs

Melanopsin-Mediated Acute Light Responses Measured in Winter and in Summer: Seasonal Variations in Adults with and without Cataracts

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Mirjam Münch

2017-09-01

Full Text Available Seasonal adaptation is a ubiquitous behavior seen in many species on both global hemispheres and is conveyed by changing photoperiods. In humans this seasonal adaptation is less apparent, in part because changes in daylength are masked by the use of electrical lighting at night. On the other hand, cataracts which reduce light transmission, may compound seasonal changes related to the reduced daylength of winter. To better understand the effects of different photoperiod lengths in healthy adults without and with cataracts, we tested their melanopsin-mediated light responses in summer vs. winter. Fifty-two participants (mean age 67.4 years; 30 with bilateral cataracts and 22 age-matched controls with clear lenses; pseudophakes were tested twice, once in summer and once in winter. At each test session we assessed the electroretinogram and pupil responses during daytime and we determined melatonin suppression, subjective sleepiness and mood in response to light exposure in the evening. Circadian rest-activity cycles and sleep from activity recordings were also analyzed for both seasons. Both groups had similar visual function. There were no seasonal differences in the electroretinogram. For the pupil responses to bright blue light, the post-illumination pupil response (PIPR was greater in winter than summer in pseudophakes, but not in cataract participants, whereas melatonin suppression to acute light exposure showed no differences between both groups and seasons. Overall, intra-daily variability of rest-activity was worse in winter but participants felt sleepier and reported worse mood at the laboratory in evening time in the summer. Those with cataracts had poorer sleep quality with lower sleep efficiency, and higher activity during sleep in winter than summer. In this study, the PIPR showed a seasonal variation in which a larger response was found during winter. This variation was only detected in participants with a clear intraocular lens. In

The sterility of equilibrium economics: an aspect of sociology of science La esterilidad de la economía del equilibrio: un aspecto de la sociología de la ciencia

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Bhatt V. V.

2000-06-01

Full Text Available This paper shows that economic science is yet to reach maturity and that equilibrium theory does not grasp actual economic relationships,and is sterile for policy making. It analyses the creation of castsamong economists, the impossibility of formalizing all economic phenomena in terms of individual optimization, and the ideological biases of scientific work. It suggests the need to reassess the basic hypothesis of the general equilibrium approach and to rebuild the analytical framework of economics. Based upon Krishnamurti "ephilosophy, it shows that the main thrust of human behavior is notselfishness but envy, and that this motivation weakens the traditional theory of individual and firm behavior.Este articulo muestra que la ciencia economica no ha alñcanzado la madurez que la la teoria del equilibrio no capta las relaciones economicas reales y es esteril para formular politicas ecopnomicas. Analiza la formacion de castas entre los economistas, la imposibilidad de formalizar todos los fenomenso economicos en terminos de optimizacion individual y los sesgos ideologicos del trabajo cientifico. Indica la necesidad de replantear las hipotesis basicas del enfoque del equilibrio general y de reconstruir el aparato analitico de la economia. Con base en la filosofia de Krishnamurti, muestra que la fuerza motriz de la conducta humana es la envidia y no el egoismo , y que esta motivacion resta validez a la teoria tradicional del comportamiento de los individuos y de las empresas.

Retinal Electrophysiology Is a Viable Preclinical Biomarker for Drug Penetrance into the Central Nervous System

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Jason Charng

2016-01-01

Full Text Available Objective. To examine whether retinal electrophysiology is a useful surrogate marker of drug penetrance into the central nervous system (CNS. Materials and Methods. Brain and retinal electrophysiology were assessed with full-field visually evoked potentials and electroretinograms in conscious and anaesthetised rats following systemic or local administrations of centrally penetrant (muscimol or nonpenetrant (isoguvacine compounds. Results. Local injections into the eye/brain bypassed the blood neural barriers and produced changes in retinal/brain responses for both drugs. In conscious animals, systemic administration of muscimol resulted in retinal and brain biopotential changes, whereas systemic delivery of isoguvacine did not. General anaesthesia confounded these outcomes. Conclusions. Retinal electrophysiology, when recorded in conscious animals, shows promise as a viable biomarker of drug penetration into the CNS. In contrast, when conducted under anaesthetised conditions confounds can be induced in both cortical and retinal electrophysiological recordings.

Frequency spectrum might act as communication code between retina and visual cortex I.

Science.gov (United States)

Yang, Xu; Gong, Bo; Lu, Jian-Wei

2015-01-01

To explore changes and possible communication relationship of local potential signals recorded simultaneously from retina and visual cortex I (V1). Fourteen C57BL/6J mice were measured with pattern electroretinogram (PERG) and pattern visually evoked potential (PVEP) and fast Fourier transform has been used to analyze the frequency components of those signals. The amplitude of PERG and PVEP was measured at about 36.7 µV and 112.5 µV respectively and the dominant frequency of PERG and PVEP, however, stay unchanged and both signals do not have second, or otherwise, harmonic generation. The results suggested that retina encodes visual information in the way of frequency spectrum and then transfers it to primary visual cortex. The primary visual cortex accepts and deciphers the input visual information coded from retina. Frequency spectrum may act as communication code between retina and V1.

Optic Disc Pit with Sectorial Retinitis Pigmentosa

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Melike Balikoglu-Yilmaz

2013-01-01

Full Text Available Sectorial retinitis pigmentosa (RP and optic disc pit (ODP are rare clinical conditions. We present a 40-year-old woman with a history of mild night blindness and decreased vision in the right eye for about 5 years. Fundus examination revealed retinal pigmentary changes in the superior and inferotemporal sectors covering the macula and reduced arterial calibre and ODP at the temporal edge of the optic disc. In addition, fundus autofluorescence, spectral-domain optical coherence tomography, fluorescein angiography, and multifocal electroretinogram scans confirmed these clinical findings. Visual acuity was decreased due to an atrophic-appearing foveal lesion. No intervention was suggested because of the poor visual potential. To the best of our knowledge, the present study is the first to describe coexistent optic disc pit and sectorial RP in the superior and inferotemporal sectors covering the macula in the same eye with figures.

The Role of mf-ERG in the Diagnosis and Treatment of Age-Related Macular Degeneration: Electrophysiological Features of AMD.

Science.gov (United States)

Moschos, Marilita M; Nitoda, Eirini

2018-01-01

Age-related macular cegeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of visual dysfunction worldwide, affecting 9-25% of individuals between 65 and 75 years old. We have reviewed the published articles investigating the role of multifocal electroretinogram (mf-ERG) in the diagnosis and treatment of AMD. Visual evoked potentials have revealed decreased amplitudes and higher latencies in patients with AMD, while the degeneration of photoreceptors and abnormalities of retinal pigment epithelium can be identified by electro-oculogram recordings. Moreover, ERG can detect the functional abnormalities observed in AMD and evaluate each therapeutic approach. The record of local electrophysiological responses coming from different retinal areas can be accurately performed by mfERG. The accuracy of mfERG in detecting the degeneration of photoreceptors, as well the disturbances of macular function, could be useful both in the early diagnosis of AMD and the assessment of treatment efficacy.

Oxygen reduction using platinum electrocatalysts prepared by liquid phase photo-deposition; Reduccion de oxigeno mediante electrocatalizadores de platino preparados por foto-deposicion en fase liquida

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Ruiz-Camacho, B.; Perez-Galindo, J. A.; Valenzuela, M. A.; Gonzalez-Huerta, R. G. [Instituto Politecnico Nacional, ESIQIE, Mexico D.F. (Mexico)]. E-mail: rosgonzalez_h@yahoo.com.mx

2009-09-15

This work presents the synthesis and characterization of nanometric-sized Pt/C electrochemical catalysts using impregnation and liquid phase photo-deposition methods. Two platinum precursors were used, C{sub 10}H{sub 14}O{sub 4}Pt (Pt acetylacetonate, Pt(acac){sub 2}) and H{sub 2}PtCl{sub 6} (hexachloroplatinic acid) to study the effect on the particle size and the electrocatalytic behavior in the oxygen reduction reaction. The characterization of the catalysts was done using x-ray diffraction, hydrogen chemisorption and transmission electron microscopy. The electrochemical study was conducted with cyclic voltamperometry and rotary disc electrode (RDE) techniques. Pt (E-tek) was used as a reference catalyst. The peaks of the platinum were identified based on the x-ray diffraction results, and correspond to crystalline phases (111) and (200), whose intensity was greater when using H{sub 2}PtCl{sub 6} versus Pt(acac){sub 2}. The hydrogen chemisorption and transmission electron microscopy tests found that the larger-sized particle (1-5 nm) and greater metallic dispersion was obtained using Pt(acac){sub 2} as a platinum precursor and liquid phase photo-deposition. It was also found that this material presented the best electrochemical response, showing a open-circuit potential of 0.96 V and over-potential of 0.05 V with respect to H{sub 2}PtCl{sub 6} and of 0.22 V with respect to the catalyst obtained using impregnation. [Spanish] En este trabajo se presenta la sintesis y caracterizacion electroquimica de catalizadores de tamano nanometrico de Pt/C empleando los metodos de impregnacion y foto-deposicion en fase liquida. Se utilizaron dos precursores del platino C{sub 10}H{sub 14}O{sub 4}Pt (acetil-acetonato de Pt, Pt(acac){sub 2}) y H2PtCl6 (acido hexacloroplatinico), para estudiar el efecto que tienen sobre el tamano de particula y el comportamiento electrocatalitico en la reaccion de reduccion de oxigeno. La caracterizacion de los catalizadores se realizo mediante

Synthesis and characterization of porous calcium phosphate; Sintesis y caracterizacion del fosfato de calcio poroso

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Granados C, F.; Serrano G, J.; Bonifacio M, J. [ININ, 52750 La Marquesa, Estado de Mexico (Mexico)]. e-mail: fgc@nuclear.inin.mx

2007-07-01

The porous calcium phosphate was prepared by the continuous precipitation method using Ca(NO{sub 3}){sub 2}.4H{sub 2}O and NH{sub 4}H{sub 2}PO{sub 4} salts. The synthesized material was structurally and superficially characterized using the XRD, BET, IR TGA and SEM techniques. The obtained inorganic material was identified as calcium phosphate that presents a great specific area for what can be efficiently used as adsorbent material for adsorption studies in the radioactive wastes treatment present in aqueous solution. (Author)

CARACTERIZACION MORFOMETRICA DE LA GERMINACION DE CHLORAEA CRISPA LINDL. (ORCHIDACEAE) USANDO UN ANALISIS DE IMAGEN

OpenAIRE

Verdugo, Gabriela; Marchant, Jorge; Cisternas, Mauricio; Calderón, Ximena; Peñaloza, Patricia

2007-01-01

Mediante la técnica de análisis de imagen se evaluó las etapas de germinación de un lote de semillas de Chloraea crispa Lindl. Se pudo observar las cuatro etapas de germinación propuestas por Mitchell. La etapa cero corresponde a semillas sin germinar, éstas son alargadas, curvadas en uno de sus extremos, y alcanzan un largo promedio de 0,5 mm. En la etapa uno se aprecia un incremento sólo en ancho debido al crecimiento del embrión, en la etapa dos hay cambios tanto en la forma como en el aum...

Propuestas basicas para el nacimiento del bioderecho y plan de gestion para incorporar su tematica en el ordenamiento juridico nacional

OpenAIRE

Pisfil Chavesta, Eulogio; Pisfil Chavesta, Eulogio

2000-01-01

El presente trabajo de tesis de Maestría, busca problematizar cuál debe ser la función del Derecho y del Jurista, en los albores de una nueva sociedad, signada fundamentalmente por la aceleración del cambio, la transitoriedad, la diversidad, y la novedad, que influyen esencialmente en las nuevas concepciones emergentes, en el área del Bio Derecho. El desarrollo científico tecnológico, en la Biología, especialmente en la Ing. Genética y la Biotecnología, está cuestionando, no al derecho, si...

A case of radiation optic neuropathy after resection of a pituitary adenoma

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Yoshii, Masaru; Okisaka, Shigekuni; Yanagawa, Youichi; Takiguchi, Hiroshi [National Defense Medical Coll., Tokorozawa, Saitama (Japan)

1995-06-01

A case of optic neuropathy after postoperative radiation therapy is reported. A 69-year-old woman had a partial resection of a pituitary adenoma in 1990 and was treated with 45 Gy of irradiation to the postoperative pituitary lesion for one month. Seven months later she had sudden right visual field loss. Goldmann perimetry examination revealed remarked visual field defect in her right eye with visual acuity of 1.0. The right relative afferent pupillary defect was positive. The value of critical flicker fusion for her right eye was reduced and the amplitude of steady-state pattern-reversal visually evoked cortical potential was significantly less for the right monocular stimulation than that for the fellow eye stimulation, but Ganzfeld electroretinograms were normal for both eyes. Magnetic resonance imaging using Gadolinium-diethylene triaminepenta-acetic acid revealed enhancement on the right optic nerve, which had not been recognized immediately after the radiation therapy, without any suggestion of right optic nerve compression by the residual pituitary adenoma. (author).

Bilateral Glaucomatous Optic Neuropathy Caused by Eye Rubbing.

Science.gov (United States)

Savastano, Alfonso; Savastano, Maria Cristina; Carlomusto, Laura; Savastano, Silvio

2015-01-01

In this report, we describe a particular condition of a 52-year-old man who showed advanced bilateral glaucomatous-like optic disc damage, even though the intraocular pressure resulted normal during all examinations performed. Visual field test, steady-state pattern electroretinogram, retinal nerve fiber layer and retinal tomographic evaluations were performed to evaluate the optic disc damage. Over a 4-year observational period, his visual acuity decreased to 12/20 in the right eye and counting fingers in the left eye. Visual fields were severely compromised, and intraocular pressure values were not superior to 14 mm Hg during routine examinations. An accurate anamnesis and the suspicion of this disease represent a crucial aspect to establish the correct diagnosis. In fact, our patient strongly rubbed his eyes for more than 10 h per day. Recurrent and continuous eye rubbing can induce progressive optic neuropathy, causing severe visual field damage similar to the pathology of advanced glaucoma.

Benign familial fleck retina: multimodal imaging including optical coherence tomography angiography.

Science.gov (United States)

Garcia, Jose Mauricio Botto de Barros; Isaac, David Leonardo Cruvinel; Sardeiro, Tainara; Aquino, Érika; Avila, Marcos

2017-01-01

This report presents multimodal imaging of a 27-year-old woman diagnosed with benign familial fleck retina (OMIM 228980), an uncommon disorder. Fundus photographs revealed retinal flecks that affected her post-equatorial retina but spared the macular area. Fundus autofluorescence and infrared imaging demonstrated a symmetrical pattern of yellow-white fleck lesions that affected both eyes. Her full-field electroretinogram and electrooculogram were normal. An optical coherence tomography B-scan was performed for both eyes, revealing increased thickness of the retinal pigmented epithelium leading to multiple small pigmented epithelium detachments. The outer retina remained intact in both eyes. Spectral-domain optical coherence tomography angiography with split-spectrum amplitude decorrelation algorithm and 3 × 3 mm structural en face optical coherence tomography did not show macular lesions. Benign familial fleck retina belongs to a heterogenous group of so-called flecked retina syndromes, and should be considered in patients with yellowish-white retinal lesions without involvement of the macula.

Benign familial fleck retina: multimodal imaging including optical coherence tomography angiography

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Jose Mauricio Botto de Barros Garcia

Full Text Available ABSTRACT This report presents multimodal imaging of a 27-year-old woman diagnosed with benign familial fleck retina (OMIM 228980, an uncommon disorder. Fundus photographs revealed retinal flecks that affected her post-equatorial retina but spared the macular area. Fundus autofluorescence and infrared imaging demonstrated a symmetrical pattern of yellow-white fleck lesions that affected both eyes. Her full-field electroretinogram and electrooculogram were normal. An optical coherence tomography B-scan was performed for both eyes, revealing increased thickness of the retinal pigmented epithelium leading to multiple small pigmented epithelium detachments. The outer retina remained intact in both eyes. Spectral-domain optical coherence tomography angiography with split-spectrum amplitude decorrelation algorithm and 3 × 3 mm structural en face optical coherence tomography did not show macular lesions. Benign familial fleck retina belongs to a heterogenous group of so-called flecked retina syndromes, and should be considered in patients with yellowish-white retinal lesions without involvement of the macula.

Fundus autofluorescence and optical coherence tomography findings in thiamine responsive megaloblastic anemia.

Science.gov (United States)

Ach, Thomas; Kardorff, Rüdiger; Rohrschneider, Klaus

2015-01-01

To report ophthalmologic fundus autofluorescence and spectral domain optical coherence tomography findings in a patient with thiamine responsive megaloblastic anemia (TRMA). A 13-year-old girl with genetically proven TRMA was ophthalmologically (visual acuity, funduscopy, perimetry, electroretinogram) followed up over >5 years. Fundus imaging also included autofluorescence and spectral domain optical coherence tomography. During a 5-year follow-up, visual acuity and visual field decreased, despite a special TRMA diet. Funduscopy revealed bull's eye appearance, whereas fundus autofluorescence showed central and peripheral hyperfluorescence and perifoveal hypofluorescence. Spectral domain optical coherence tomography revealed affected inner segment ellipsoid band and irregularities in the retinal pigment epithelium and choroidea. Autofluorescence and spectral domain optical coherence tomography findings in a patient with TRMA show retinitis pigmentosa-like retina, retinal pigment epithelium, and choroid alterations. These findings might progress even under special TRMA diet, indispensable to life. Ophthalmologist should consider TRMA in patients with deafness and ophthalmologic disorders.

Temporal properties of the lens eyes of the box jellyfish Tripedalia cystophora

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

O'Connor, Megan; Nilsson, Dan-E; Garm, Anders Lydik

2010-01-01

Box jellyWsh (Cubomedusae) are visually orientating animals which posses a total of 24 eyes of 4 morphological types; 2 pigment cup eyes (pit eye and slit eye) and 2 lens eyes [upper lens-eye (ule) and lower lens-eye (lle)]. In this study, we use electroretinograms (ERGs) to explore temporal...... properties of the two lens eyes. We Wnd that the ERG of both lens eyes are complex and using sinusoidal Xicker stimuli we Wnd that both lens eyes have slow temporal resolution. The average Xicker fusion frequency (FFF) was found to be approximately 10 Hz for the ule and 8 Hz for the lle. Di......Verences in the FFF and response patterns between the two lens eyes suggest that the ule and lle Wlter information diVerently in the temporal domain and thus are tuned to perform diVerent visual tasks. The data collected in this study support the idea that the visual system of box jellyWsh is a collection of special...

Visual electrophysiology in children

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Jelka Brecelj

2005-10-01

Full Text Available Background: Electrophysiological assessment of vision in children helps to recognise abnormal development of the visual system when it is still susceptible to medication and eventual correction. Visual electrophysiology provides information about the function of the retina (retinal pigment epithelium, cone and rod receptors, bipolar, amacrine, and ganglion cells, optic nerve, chiasmal and postchiasmal visual pathway, and visual cortex.Methods: Electroretinograms (ERG and visual evoked potentials (VEP are recorded non-invasively; in infants are recorded simultaneously ERG with skin electrodes, while in older children separately ERG with HK loop electrode in accordance with ISCEV (International Society for Clinical Electrophysiology of Vision recommendations.Results: Clinical and electrophysiological changes in children with nystagmus, Leber’s congenital amaurosis, achromatopsia, congenital stationary night blindness, progressive retinal dystrophies, optic nerve hypoplasia, albinism, achiasmia, optic neuritis and visual pathway tumours are presented.Conclusions: Electrophysiological tests can help to indicate the nature and the location of dysfunction in unclear ophthalmological and/or neurological cases.

Retinal dopamine mediates multiple dimensions of light-adapted vision.

Science.gov (United States)

Jackson, Chad R; Ruan, Guo-Xiang; Aseem, Fazila; Abey, Jane; Gamble, Karen; Stanwood, Greg; Palmiter, Richard D; Iuvone, P Michael; McMahon, Douglas G

2012-07-04

Dopamine is a key neuromodulator in the retina and brain that supports motor, cognitive, and visual function. Here, we developed a mouse model on a C57 background in which expression of the rate-limiting enzyme for dopamine synthesis, tyrosine hydroxylase, is specifically disrupted in the retina. This model enabled assessment of the overall role of retinal dopamine in vision using electrophysiological (electroretinogram), psychophysical (optokinetic tracking), and pharmacological techniques. Significant disruptions were observed in high-resolution, light-adapted vision caused by specific deficits in light responses, contrast sensitivity, acuity, and circadian rhythms in this retinal dopamine-depleted mouse model. These global effects of retinal dopamine on vision are driven by the differential actions of dopamine D1 and D4 receptors on specific retinal functions and appear to be due to the ongoing bioavailability of dopamine rather than developmental effects. Together, our data indicate that dopamine is necessary for the circadian nature of light-adapted vision as well as optimal contrast detection and acuity.

Bilateral Multifocal Chorioretinitis and Optic Neuritis due to Epstein-Barr Virus: A Case Report

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Vasileios G. Peponis

2012-10-01

Full Text Available Epstein-Barr virus (EBV is a DNA virus that mainly causes infectious mononucleosis. Ocular manifestations are rare and typically mild. Only a few cases of EBV involving the retina or the optic nerve have been reported. Herein, we report the case of a 67-year-old man with bilateral chorioretinitis and optic neuritis due to EBV. The patient had no previous ocular history and presented with decreased vision in both eyes. His past medical history included EBV encephalopathy, which was confirmed serologically, a few months before. Ophthalmological examination revealed bilateral chorioretinitis and optic neuritis, confirmed by fluorescein angiography as well as electrophysiological tests (visual evoked potentials and electroretinogram. It is very important to include EBV in the differential diagnosis of chorioretinal atrophic lesions. Clinicians should be aware of ocular manifestations of EBV, in order to suggest ophthalmological examination and start treatment promptly before irreversible damage to the optic nerve or retina occurs.

Sudden acquired retinal degeneration syndrome in western Canada: 93 cases.

Science.gov (United States)

Leis, Marina L; Lucyshyn, Danica; Bauer, Bianca S; Grahn, Bruce H; Sandmeyer, Lynne S

2017-11-01

This study reviewed clinical data from dogs diagnosed with sudden acquired retinal degeneration syndrome (SARDS) in western Canada. Medical records from the Western College of Veterinary Medicine from 2002 to 2016 showed that 93 cases of SARDS were diagnosed based on presentation for sudden blindness and a bilaterally extinguished electroretinogram. The most common pure breeds were the miniature schnauzer, dachshund, and pug. The mean age at diagnosis was 8.1 years and males and females were equally affected. Most of the dogs were presented with normal non-chromatic, but abnormal chromatic pupillary light reflexes. The incidence of retinal degeneration as detected via ophthalmoscopy increased over time after SARDS diagnosis. Polyuria, polydipsia, polyphagia, weight gain, elevated liver enzyme values, isosthenuria, and proteinuria were common clinical and laboratory findings. Chromatic pupillary light reflex testing may be more valuable than non-chromatic pupillary light testing in detecting pupil response abnormalities in dogs with SARDS, although electroretinography remains the definitive diagnostic test.

Nontoxic concentration of ceftazidime and flomoxef sodium for intravitreal use--evaluated by in-vitro ERG.

Science.gov (United States)

Tanabe, J; Kitano, K; Suzuki, T; Okayama, Y; Mochizuki, K; Kawasaki, K

1990-01-01

The effects of ceftazidime (CAZ) and flomoxef sodium (FMOX) on the in-vitro electroretinogram (ERG) of albino rabbits were studied. The a-wave, the b-wave and the oscillatory potential (OP) were unchanged by 0.3mM (0.19mg/ml) CAZ-containing solution. The OP was suppressed by 0.5mM (0.32mg/ml) CAZ. The a-wave, the b-wave and the OP were unchanged by 0.5mM (0.26mg/ml) FMOX. The OP was suppressed and its peak latency was delayed by 2mM (0.52mg/ml) FMOX. The concentration of 0.3mM (0.19mg/ml) CAZ was higher than its minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) against Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Serratia marcescens and Propionibacterium acnes. The concentration of 0.5mM (0.26mg/ml) FMOX was higher than its MIC against Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Serratia marcescens and Propionibacterium acnes.

A case of radiation optic neuropathy after resection of a pituitary adenoma

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Yoshii, Masaru; Okisaka, Shigekuni; Yanagawa, Youichi; Takiguchi, Hiroshi

1995-01-01

A case of optic neuropathy after postoperative radiation therapy is reported. A 69-year-old woman had a partial resection of a pituitary adenoma in 1990 and was treated with 45 Gy of irradiation to the postoperative pituitary lesion for one month. Seven months later she had sudden right visual field loss. Goldmann perimetry examination revealed remarked visual field defect in her right eye with visual acuity of 1.0. The right relative afferent pupillary defect was positive. The value of critical flicker fusion for her right eye was reduced and the amplitude of steady-state pattern-reversal visually evoked cortical potential was significantly less for the right monocular stimulation than that for the fellow eye stimulation, but Ganzfeld electroretinograms were normal for both eyes. Magnetic resonance imaging using Gadolinium-diethylene triaminepenta-acetic acid revealed enhancement on the right optic nerve, which had not been recognized immediately after the radiation therapy, without any suggestion of right optic nerve compression by the residual pituitary adenoma. (author)

Early diagnosis of sub-clinical stage of diabetic retinopathy

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Xing-Hui Xu

2014-12-01

Full Text Available AIM: To evaluate the early diagnosis of sub-clinic stage of diabetic retinopathy.METHODS: This was cross sectional study,multifocal retina electroretinogram(mf-ERG, contrast sensitivity(CSand central retinal artery color Doppler examination were recorded from 30 cases(30 eyesmatched control subjects, 35 cases(35 eyeswith type 2 diabetes mellitus(DMwithout diabetic retinopathy(NDRand 38 cases(38 eyeswith non-prolifera tive diabetic retinopathy(NPDR. One-way ANOVA and SNK-q test were used for data analysis.RESULTS: P1 response density of NDR patients were found decrease, N1 implicit time were delayed. Which were related with the degree of retinopathy(PPPP>0.05, The differences between normal group, NDR group and NPDR group were found statistically significant(PCONCLUSION: mf-ERG and CS are sensitive indexes for early evaluation of visual function in patients with diabetes mellitus, with development of the disease, CRA blood flow also appears to decline.

Frequency spectrum might act as communication code between retina and visual cortex I

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Xu Yang

2015-12-01

Full Text Available AIM: To explore changes and possible communication relationship of local potential signals recorded simultaneously from retina and visual cortex I (V1. METHODS: Fourteen C57BL/6J mice were measured with pattern electroretinogram (PERG and pattern visually evoked potential (PVEP and fast Fourier transform has been used to analyze the frequency components of those signals. RESULTS: The amplitude of PERG and PVEP was measured at about 36.7 µV and 112.5 µV respectively and the dominant frequency of PERG and PVEP, however, stay unchanged and both signals do not have second, or otherwise, harmonic generation. CONCLUSION: The results suggested that retina encodes visual information in the way of frequency spectrum and then transfers it to primary visual cortex. The primary visual cortex accepts and deciphers the input visual information coded from retina. Frequency spectrum may act as communication code between retina and V1.

Targeting neuronal gap junctions in mouse retina offers neuroprotection in glaucoma

Science.gov (United States)

Kumar, Sandeep; Ramakrishnan, Hariharasubramanian; Roy, Kaushambi; Viswanathan, Suresh; Bloomfield, Stewart A.

2017-01-01

The progressive death of retinal ganglion cells and resulting visual deficits are hallmarks of glaucoma, but the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. In many neurodegenerative diseases, cell death induced by primary insult is followed by a wave of secondary loss. Gap junctions (GJs), intercellular channels composed of subunit connexins, can play a major role in secondary cell death by forming conduits through which toxic molecules from dying cells pass to and injure coupled neighbors. Here we have shown that pharmacological blockade of GJs or genetic ablation of connexin 36 (Cx36) subunits, which are highly expressed by retinal neurons, markedly reduced loss of neurons and optic nerve axons in a mouse model of glaucoma. Further, functional parameters that are negatively affected in glaucoma, including the electroretinogram, visual evoked potential, visual spatial acuity, and contrast sensitivity, were maintained at control levels when Cx36 was ablated. Neuronal GJs may thus represent potential therapeutic targets to prevent the progressive neurodegeneration and visual impairment associated with glaucoma. PMID:28604388

Curcumin Delays Retinal Degeneration by Regulating Microglia Activation in the Retina of rd1 Mice

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Yanhe Wang

2017-11-01

Full Text Available Background/Aims: Retinitis pigmentosa (RP is characterized by degeneration of photoreceptors, and there are currently no effective treatments for this disease. However, curcumin has shown neuroprotectant efficacy in a RP rat and swine model, and thus, may have neuroprotective effects in this disease. Methods: Immunofluorescence staining, electroretinogram recordings, and behavioral tests were used to analyze the effects of curcumin and the underlying mechanism in retinal degeneration 1 (rd1 mice. Results: The number of apoptotic cells in the retina of rd1 mice at postnatal day 14 significantly decreased with curcumin treatment and visual function was improved. The activation of microglia and secretion of chemokines and matrix metalloproteinases in the retina were inhibited by curcumin. These effects were also observed in a co-culture of BV2 microglial cells and retina-derived 661W cells. Conclusions: Curcumin delayed retinal degeneration by suppressing microglia activation in the retina of rd1 mice. Thus, it may be an effective treatment for neurodegenerative disorders such as RP.

Sudden acquired retinal degeneration syndrome in western Canada: 93 cases

Science.gov (United States)

Leis, Marina L.; Lucyshyn, Danica; Bauer, Bianca S.; Grahn, Bruce H.; Sandmeyer, Lynne S.

2017-01-01

This study reviewed clinical data from dogs diagnosed with sudden acquired retinal degeneration syndrome (SARDS) in western Canada. Medical records from the Western College of Veterinary Medicine from 2002 to 2016 showed that 93 cases of SARDS were diagnosed based on presentation for sudden blindness and a bilaterally extinguished electroretinogram. The most common pure breeds were the miniature schnauzer, dachshund, and pug. The mean age at diagnosis was 8.1 years and males and females were equally affected. Most of the dogs were presented with normal non-chromatic, but abnormal chromatic pupillary light reflexes. The incidence of retinal degeneration as detected via ophthalmoscopy increased over time after SARDS diagnosis. Polyuria, polydipsia, polyphagia, weight gain, elevated liver enzyme values, isosthenuria, and proteinuria were common clinical and laboratory findings. Chromatic pupillary light reflex testing may be more valuable than non-chromatic pupillary light testing in detecting pupil response abnormalities in dogs with SARDS, although electroretinography remains the definitive diagnostic test. PMID:29089658

Cone dysfunctions in retinitis pigmentosa with retinal nerve fiber layer thickening.

Science.gov (United States)

Sobacı, Güngör; Ozge, Gökhan; Gündoğan, Fatih Ç

2012-01-01

To investigate whether or not thicker retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) in retinitis pigmentosa (RP) patients relates to functional abnormalities of the photoreceptors. Optical coherence tomography-based RNFL thickness was measured by Stratus-3™ (Zeiss, Basel, Switzerland) optical coherence tomography and electroretinogram (ERG) recordings made using the RETI-port(®) system (Roland, Wiesbaden, Germany) in 27 patients with retinitis pigmentosa and in 30 healthy subjects. Photopic ERG b-wave amplitude, cone ERG b-wave latency, 30 Hz flicker amplitude, and 30 Hz flicker latency had significant correlations to the RNFL-temporal (r = -0.55, P = 0.004, r = 0.68, P = 0.001, r = -0.65, P = 0.001, and r = -0.52, P = 0.007, respectively). Eyes with thicker RNFL (ten eyes) differed significantly from those with thinner RNFL (eight eyes) regarding cone ERG b-wave latency values only (P = 0.001). Thicker RNFL in patients with retinitis pigmentosa may be associated with functional abnormality of the cone system.

Clinical and ERG data in a family with autosomal dominant RP and Pro-347-Arg mutation in the rhodopsin gene.

Science.gov (United States)

Niemeyer, G; Trüb, P; Schinzel, A; Gal, A

1992-01-01

In a family with autosomal dominant retinitis pigmentosa, documented over six generations, a previously undescribed point mutation in the rhodopsin gene could be identified. The mutation found in the six affected members examined but in none of the controls, including healthy members of the family, was a point mutation in codon 347 predicting a substitution of the amino acid arginine for proline, designated Pro-347-Arg. Six affected members from two generations were examined clinically and with ganzfeld rod and cone electroretinography. The cone and, more dramatically, the rod electroretinograms were reduced to residual b-wave amplitudes or were non-detectable as early as ages 18 to 22 years. The Pro-347-Arg mutation resulted in a subjectively and clinically homogeneous phenotype: early onset of night blindness before age 11, relatively preserved usable visual fields until about age 30, blindness at ages 40 to 60, and change from an initial apparently sine pigmento to a hyperpigmented and atrophic fundus picture between 30 and 50 years of age.

The Influence of Brightness on Functional Assessment by mfERG: A Study on Scaffolds Used in Retinal Cell Transplantation in Pigs

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A. T. Christiansen

2012-01-01

Full Text Available To determine the effect of membrane brightness on multifocal electroretinograms (mfERGs, we implanted poly lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA membranes in the subretinal space of 11 porcine eyes. We compared membranes with their native shiny white color with membranes that were stained with a blue dye (Brilliant Blue. Histological and electrophysiological evaluation of the overlying retina was carried out 6 weeks after implantation. Histologically, both white and blue membranes degraded in a spongiform manner leaving a disrupted outer retina with no preserved photoreceptor segments. Multifocal ERG revealed the white membranes to have a significantly higher P1-amplitude ratio than the blue (P=0.027, and a correlation between brightness ratio and P1-amplitude ratio was found (r=0.762. Based on our findings, we conclude that bright subretinal objects can produce normal mfERG amplitude ratios even when the adjacent photoreceptors are missing. Functional assessment with mfERG in scaffold implant studies should therefore be evaluated with care.

[Topographic mapping of retinal function with a scanning laser ophthalmoscope and multifocal electroretinography using short M-sequences].

Science.gov (United States)

Rudolph, G; Bechmann, M; Berninger, T; Kutschbach, E; Held, U; Tornow, R P; Kalpadakis, P; Zol'nikova, I V; Shamshinova, A M

2001-01-01

A new method of multifocal electroretinography making use of scanning laser ophthalmoscope with a wavelength of 630 nm (SLO-m-ERG), evoking short spatial visual stimuli on the retina, is proposed. Algorithm of presenting the visual stimuli and analysis of distribution of local electroretinograms on the surface of the retina is based on short m-sequences. Mathematical cross correlation analysis shows a three-dimensional distribution of bioelectrical activity of the retina in the central visual field. In normal subjects the cone bioelectrical activity is the maximum in the macular area (corresponding to the density of cone distribution) and absent in the blind spot. The method detects the slightest pathological changes in the retina under control of the site of stimulation and ophthalmoscopic picture of the fundus oculi. The site of the pathological process correlates with the topography of changes in bioelectrical activity of the examined retinal area in diseases of the macular area and pigmented retinitis detectable by ophthalmoscopy.

Multifocal ERG reveals long distance effects of a local bleach in the retina.

Science.gov (United States)

Kretschmann, U; Tornow, R P; Zrenner, E

1998-06-01

To examine the distribution of ERG-activity in the central visual field after local bleaching of the fovea, multifocal electroretinograms were recorded in eight normal volunteers before, during and after recurrent light exposure. During bleaching (90% bleached pigment), the response density (scalar product) of the foveal area (0-2 degrees eccentricity) decreased from 10.7 +/- 3.5 to 4.1 +/- 1.9 nV/degree2 (P < 0.001). The average activity in the extrafoveal macular area was unchanged, while the amplitudes were frequently (in 53 of 54 areas) enhanced at 5-30.5 degrees eccentricity. Here the average response density changed from 3.1 +/- 0.9 to 3.5 +/- 1.0 nV/degree2 (P < 0.001). A fast recovery of foveal responses after cessation of bleaching occurred. Besides a strong decrease of response in the directly bleached area, local bleaching led to enhanced activity mainly 3-27 degrees distant from the bleached area.

Is there a dysfunction in the visual system of depressed patients?

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Iacovides Apostolos

2005-03-01

Full Text Available Abstract Background The aim of the current study was to identify a possible locus of dysfunction in the visual system of depressed patients. Materials and Methods Fifty Major Depressive patients aged 21–60 years and 15 age-matched controls took part in the study The diagnosis was obtained with the SCAN v 2.0. The psychometric assessment included the HDRS, the HAS, the Newcastle Scales, the Diagnostic Melancholia Scale and the GAF scale. Flash Electroretinogram and Electrooculogram were performed in all subjects. The statistical analysis included ANCOVA, Student's t-test and Pearson Product Moment Correlation Coefficient were used. Results The Electro-oculographic findings suggested that all subtypes of depressed patients had lower dark trough and light peak values in comparison to controls (p Discussion The findings of the current study provide empirical data in order to assist in the understanding of the international literature and to explain the mechanism of action of therapies like sleep deprivation and light therapy.

ambientes de aprendizaje en línea

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

María Gertrudis López

2008-01-01

Full Text Available Este trabajo describe la base interdisciplinaria entre el diseño instruccional y la ingeniería de software de un Sistema Generador de Ambientes de Enseñanza-Aprendizaje (AMBAR, una herramienta Web que permite a profesores y aprendices elaborar y participar en procesos de enseñanza aprendizaje constructivistas basados en Objetos de Aprendizaje reusables (OA. Se presenta la base conceptual de AMBAR, la cual incluye las definiciones y caracterizaciones de OA y sus repositorios, las teorías de aprendizaje constructivistas en las que se basa, como el Aprendizaje Generativo y la Teoría de la Flexibilidad Cognitiva, los estándares como SCORM e IMS Learning Design, y la visión de Web Semánticas. Para el desarrollo de AMBAR se está utilizando un método Orientado a Objetos basado en el Lenguaje Unificado de Modelado (UML y se están combinado metodologías propias del diseño instruccional con las de la ingeniería de Software, dentro de una visión interdisciplinaria. Actualmente, se cuenta con el primer prototipo del repositorio de OA, una ontología que permitirá la incorporación de mecanismos inteligentes de guía al usuario para la construcción asistida de los ambientes de aprendizaje, y un generador de Ambientes de Enseñanza-Aprendizaje basados en las estrategias de formación de conceptos (Conceptool.

Las lenguas del Fuero juzgo: avatares históricos e historiográficos de las versiones romances de la Ley visigótica (I

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Mónica Castillo Lluch

2012-06-01

Full Text Available Este trabajo revisa las caracterizaciones que se han dado de la lengua del Fuero juzgo en diferentes obras de la historia de la lengua española (manuales, ediciones y tratados dialectológicos, a la vez que explora cómo la representación histórica que se tiene del código legal ha podido trascender a su descripción lingüística. Se pone de manifiesto el desconocimiento casi absoluto de la historia del texto romance del Fuero juzgo y la necesidad para superarlo de una visión tanto individual de los distintos testimonios como del conjunto de su tradición manuscrita.Dans cette étude sont passées en revue les caractérisations de la langue du Fuero juzgo proposéesdans divers ouvrages sur l’histoire de la langue espagnole (manuels, éditions et traités dialectologiques. L’influence que la représentation historique du code légal a pu avoir sur sa description linguistique est également étudiée. L’accent est mis sur la méconnaissance presque complète de l’histoire du texte en langue vulgaire : pour y remédier, une étude de chacun des manuscrits conservés est nécessaire, mais il faut aussi parvenir à une vision d'ensemble de la tradition manuscrite.

Substrate temperature study in the crystallinity of BaTiO{sub 3} thin films; Estudio de la temperatura de crecimiento sobre la cristalinidad en peliculas delgadas de BaTiO{sub 3}

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Marquez-Herrera, Alfredo [Coordinacion Academica Region Altiplano (COARA), Universidad Autonoma de San Luis Potosi, San Luis Potosi (Mexico)]. E-mail: amarquez@mixteco.utm.mx; Hernandez-Rodriguez, Eric Noe; Zapata-Torres, Martin Guadalupe [Centro de Investigacion en Ciencia Aplicada y Tecnologia Avanzada, Unidad Legaria, Instituto Politecnico Nacional (Mexico)]. E-mails: noehmx@hotmail.com; mzapatat@ipn.mx; Cruz-Jauregui, Maria de la Paz [Centro de Nanociencias y Nanotecnologia, Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico (Mexico)]. E-mail: mcruz@cnyn.unam.mx; Melendez-Lira, Miguel angel [Centro de Investigacion y de Estudios Avanzados, Instituto Politecnico Nacional (Mexico)]. E-mail: mlira@fis.cinvestav.mx

2013-07-15

Ferroelectric thin films of BaTiO{sub 3} (BTO) were grown on quartz and nichrome substrates using a BaTiO{sub 3} target by RF-Sputtering technique. It was studied the effect of the substrate temperature in the crystallization of the material. These samples were compared with films deposited at room temperature and heat treated out of the growth Chamber. Their crystallinity were studied by X-ray diffraction. Additionally, the optical characterizations were carried out by UV-Vis spectrophotometer. The growth of thin films with substrate temperature allows the obtaining of crystalline materials at temperatures below those reported by other authors. [Spanish] Peliculas delgadas Ferroelectricas de BaTiO{sub 3} (BTO) se depositaron a partir de un blanco de BaTiO{sub 3} mediante la tecnica de RF-Sputtering (erosion catodica por radio frecuencia) sobre substratos de nicromel y cuarzo. Se estudio el efecto de la temperatura de sustrato in-situ en la cristalinidad del material durante su deposito. Estas muestras fueron comparadas con peliculas depositadas a temperatura ambiente y tratadas termicamente posterior al deposito fuera de la camara de crecimiento. El estudio de la cristalinidad fue realizado mediante la tecnica de difraccion de rayos-X. Adicionalmente, se llevaron a cabo caracterizaciones opticas mediante un espectrofotometro UV-Vis. El crecimiento de peliculas delgadas con temperatura de sustrato permite la obtencion de materiales cristalinos a temperaturas por debajo de las reportadas por otros autores.

Superplastic forming of the Cd-17.4Zn alloy; Conformado superplastico de la aleacion Cd-17.4Zn

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Llanes-Briceno, J. A.; Torres-Villasenor, G. [Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico, Mexico, D.F. (Mexico)

2000-06-01

In the present work the necessary steps to carry on the superplastic forming of the Cd-17.4Zn alloy are defined. The use of either atmospheric pressure or gas pressure as forming tools is analyzed. The optimum values of the variable involved (temperature, maximum strain and sensitivity index) are determined while a method for the characterization of futures superplastic alloys is set forth. The experimental characterization of the superplastic forming is achieved with free bulging of circular membranes of 12, 16, 24, 32 and 40 mm in diameter and with three different membrane thicknesses (0.4, 0.6, 0.8 mm). [Spanish] Se definen los pasos necesarios para el conformado superplastico de la aleacion Cd-17.4 Zn. Se comparan la presion atmosferica y el gas a presion como herramientas de conformado. Se determinan los valores optimos de la variables involucradas (temperatura, deformacion maxima e indice de sensibilidad) y se plantea una metodologia para la caracterizacion de futuras aleaciones superplasticas. El conformado superplastico se caracteriza experimentalmente mediante el inflado libre de membranas circulares de 12, 16, 24, 32 y 40 mm de diametro y tres diferentes espesores (0.4, 0.6 y 0.8 mm). Se muestra la estructura perlitica (enfuiada al aive Cd-17.4Zn) y la estructura grano fino. Se muestra la profundidad de deformacion en tres espesores (0.4, 0.6, 0.8 mm) a P=200 Kpa y T = 200 y a T = 230.

Medical response guide for the initial phase of a radiological emergency; Guia para la respuesta medica en la fase inicial de una emergencia radiologica

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Vazquez, Marina A; Perez, Maria del R

2007-07-01

In case of a sanitary emergency, the local community and its health care system are the first aid providers. Therefore, preparedness through education and training programs would allow emergency systems to provide an appropriate first medical response. The main objective of this guide is to give basic guidelines for the medical response management after situations involving radioactive materials, in an easy and simple way. The information contained in this guide is addressed to health care personnel of any local assistance center. (author) [Spanish] Las emergencias que afecten a un numero importante de personas y que tengan como protagonistas agentes 'no convencionales' como lo son las radiaciones ionizantes, deben ser abordadas mediante la implementacion de programas sanitarios especiales. En una situacion de emergencia, generalmente los primeros en proporcionar la ayuda, son la comunidad local y su sistema de salud. Por ello la preparacion previa local, a traves de la capacitacion y el entrenamiento permitira brindar una respuesta inicial adecuada que se articule con un sistema de respuesta en emergencias escalonado y de complejidad creciente. Esto requiere la participacion de las autoridades de salud en cada uno de los niveles de atencion, asi como apoyo de otros sectores para desarrollar sus planes de preparacion y respuesta. La presente guia, como instrumento de capacitacion, tiene como objetivo primario brindar las herramientas basicas para el manejo de la respuesta medica en una situacion de emergencia que involucre material radiactivo, en un lenguaje claro y sencillo, dirigida al personal de salud de todos los centros asistenciales locales. (autor)

Sampling of sediment cores; Muestreo de cores sedimentarios

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Ruiz-Fernandez, Ana Carolina [Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico, Instituto de Ciencias del Mar y Limnologia (Mexico); Diaz Asencio, Misael [Centro de Estudios Ambientales de Cienfuegos (Cuba)

2012-07-01

In this chapter we describe techniques for collecting sediment cores for obtaining geochronologies by {sup 210}Pb (100 years) to allow historical reconstruction of environmental changes in the coastal zone. We examine relevant aspects for the sampling design, mainly related to the basic information about the area of interest necessary to choose the perfect place sampling, thereby we can improve the chances of success in meeting the objectives of the study. We also include description of the sampling methods aimed at maximizing the collecting capabilities of undisturbed sedimentary material, emphasizing the recovery of unaltered sediment-water interface. In addition, we describe subsampling procedures and sample handling intended to minimize post-sampling disruption to improve the possibilities of a reconstruction of reliable geochronologies. [Spanish] En este capitulo describimos tecnicas de recogida de cores sedimentarios para la obtencion de geocronologias por {sup 210}Pb (100 anos) que permitan la reconstruccion historica de cambios ambientales en la zona costera. Examinamos los aspectos relevantes para el diseno del muestreo, principalmente relacionados con la informacion basica sobre el area de interes necesaria para escoger el lugar idoneo de muestreo. De ese modo podemos mejorar las posibilidades de exito en el cumplimiento de los objetivos del estudio. Incluimos ademas la descripcion de los metodos de muestreo orientados a maximizar las posibilidades de recogida de material sedimentario no perturbado, poniendo enfasis en la recuperacion inalterada de la interfase agua-sedimento. Asimismo, describimos procedimientos de submuestreo y manipulacion de muestras, con los cuales se pretende minimizar la perturbacion post-muestreo para mejorar las posibilidades de una reconstruccion de geocronologias confiables.

The broadband networks, basic infrastructure of the knowledge society; Las redes de banda ancha, infraestructuras basicas de la sociedad del conocimiento

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Diaz Vega, R.

2010-07-01

Telecommunication networks will conform the basic infrastructure of the future knowledge society. The growing demand in network usage will require the total renewal of current networks and accordingly large investment resources, presenting big difficulties (in a tough economic environment) and that can only be overcome from a global perspective with full understanding of networks role in the value chain and with contributions of all stake holders. This paper analyzes the relevant challenges to new generation network development and makes some proposals to cope with them. (Author) 4 refs.

Background characterization in a liquid scintillation spectrometer; Caracterizacion del fondo de un espectrometro de centelleo liquido

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Rodriguez Barquero, L.; Los Arcos, J.M.; Jimenez de Mingo, A.

1995-07-01

An alternate procedure for background count rate estimation in a liquid scintillation spectrometer is presented, which does not require to measure a blank with similar composition, volume and quench, to the problem sample. The procedure is based on a double linear parameterization which was obtained from a systematic study of the background observed with glass vials, in three different windows, 0 - 20 KeV, 0 - 800 KeV and 0 - 2 MeV, for volume between 2 and 20 mi of three commercial scintillators, Hisafe II, Ultima-Gold and Instagel, and quenching degree in the interval equivalent to 50% - 3% tritium efficiency. This procedure was tested with standard samples of 3H, and led to average discrepancies less than 10% for activity {>=}0,6 Bq, against conventional methods for which the discrepancies are twice on average. (Author) 10 refs.

Characterization of radioactive orphan sources by gamma spectrometry; Caracterizacion de fuentes huerfanas radiactivas por espectrometria gamma

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Cruz W, H., E-mail: wcruz@ipen.gob.pe [Instituto Peruano de Energia Nuclear (PGRR/IPEN), Lima (Peru). Planta de Gestion de Residuos Radiactivos

2013-07-01

The sealed radioactive sources are widely applicable in industry. They must have a permanent control and must be registered with the Technical Office of the National Authority (OTAN). However, at times it has identified the presence of abandoned sealed sources unknown to the owner. These sources are called 'orphan sources'. Of course these sources represent a high potential risk because accidents can trigger dire consequences depending on your activity and chemical form in which it presents the radioisotope. This paper describes the process and the actions taken to characterize two orphan radioactive sources from the smelter a Aceros Arequipa. For characterization we used a gamma spectrometry system using a detector NaI(Tl) 3″ x 3″ with a multichannel analyzer Nucleus PCA-II. The radioisotope identified was cesium - 137 ({sup 137}Cs) in both cases. Fortunately, the sources maintained their integrity would otherwise have generated significant pollution considering the chemical form of the radioisotope and easy dispersion. (author)

Characterization of the detectability of an intraoperative minigammacamera; Caracterizacion de la detectabilidad de una minigammacamara intraoperatoria

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Sanchez Jimenez, J.; Nunez Martinez, L. M. R.; Morillas Ruiz, J.; Pizarro Trigo, F.; Crespo Mesa, S.; Ros Lorda, M.A.

2011-07-01

Screening of the sentinel node is a technique which is widely used in Nuclear Medicine Services for its ability to reduce the morbidity associated lymphadenectomy. This intervention is particularly important that accurate detection of the probe uptake, The aim of this study is to evaluate all the factors that influence the detection image by introducing the contributions of intraoperative minigammacamera systems. (Author)

Generation and characterization of microcracks in structural materials; Generacion y Caracterizacion de Microgrietas en materiales estructurales

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Menendez, E.; Frutos, J. de

2012-07-01

In this paper, we study how to generate and accelerate, expansive phenomena within cementitious composites, considering elements of addiction using both fly ash and slag. We present results of monitoring of these processes from the beginning and characterize chemical, microstructural, and crystallographic by X-ray diffraction, backscattering electron microscopy, X-ray dispersive energy and mercury porosimetry. These data are supplemented with values of mechanical behavior of materials to determine their functionality. As a result of these studies, we propose a model for the generation and progression of microcracks for each alteration processes studied. (Author) 7 refs.

Synthesis and characterization of poly iodine anilines by plasma; Sintesis y caracterizacion de poliyodoanilinas por plasma

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Enriquez P, M A

2003-07-01

The polymers and organic materials present a numberless quantity of applications. However, it has not been but until recent times that it has been found that some of these materials can possess semiconductor properties. This has generated a great interest for the investigation in the area of semiconductor polymers. The poly aniline (Pan) it is one of the main semiconductor polymers because their electric properties change depending on the doping and of the state of oxidation to the one the molecules are subjected. The synthesis of this material has been carried out by means of chemical oxidation or electrochemistry. In this work a study is presented on the formation of poly aniline polymers with halogens chemically united to the aniline ring, poly(m-iodine aniline) (m-PAnI) and poly(m-chloroaniline) (m-PAnCI) for plasma. The plasma is generated by means of discharges of splendor with an r f amplifier to 13.5 MHz to drops pressures (10{sup -2} mbar). The synthesized polymers were obtained in form of thin film in the walls of the reactor and in the substrate introduced in the one. The electric properties of the polymers were evaluated in function of the time of reaction. Also, the conductivity of the polymers was compared synthesized in this work with reported data of synthesized poly aniline and doped with iodine for plasma. The highest values in conductivity are obtained in the poly aniline where the halogens are chemically connected to the ring that if it is doped with iodine. The atomic proportion in the surface of the polymers was analyzed by dispersive energy spectroscopy with which is deduced that the halogens come off of the molecules of the monomers or of the polymer in formation and that the atoms of iodine get lost more easily than those of chlorine. Other techniques that were used to characterize to the poly aniline were scanning electron microscopy, infrared spectroscopy, thermal gravimetric analysis and X-ray diffraction. The results are presented in function of the time of reaction that is one of the variables that there is shown to be very significant to promote inter crossing and ramification in the materials synthesized by plasma. The content of this thesis work is presented in six chapters: in the Chapter 1 the generalities of the polymers are described as their classification and the different polymerization techniques, as well as some concepts on the plasma, polymerization for plasma and like it is generated. In the Chapter 2 the importance is described that has the poly aniline like semiconductor material in its pure form and doped. Also the mechanism of electric conduction that is carried out in the polymers is discussed. The Chapter 3 narrate the theoretical foundation of the analytic techniques that were used to characterize to the synthesized polymers. Also, the experimental arrangement is explained that was used in the measurement of the electric conductivity of the polymers. In the Chapter 4 the synthesis of the polymers is described which includes the m-iodine aniline synthesis and m-chloroaniline for plasma and the chemical conditions under which were carried out the syntheses. The results that they were obtained when characterizing the polymers for: measurement of thickness, scanning electron microscopy, infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, thermogravimetry and electric conductivity are presented in the Chapter 5 of this work. At the end the conclusions of this work are presented. (Author)

Characterization of nitrides in an AISI 1010 steel; Caracterizacion de nitruros en un acero AISI 1010

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Naquid G, C. [Instituto Nacional de Investigaciones Nucleares, Gerencia de Ciencia de Materiales, A.P. 18-1027, 11801 Mexico D.F. (Mexico)

1998-07-01

It was characterized the phase formation in the 1010 carbon steel nitrided in a plasma reactor nearby to eutectoid point. The microstructure and identification of these ones were evaluated by Optical microscopy (OM), Dilatometry and X-ray diffraction (XRD). (Author)

Padroes de consumo de alcool e fatores associados entre adultos usuarios de servico de atencao basica do Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brasil

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Rafael Tavares Jomar

2014-01-01

Full Text Available RESUMO Objetivou-se estimar os padrões de consumo de álcool e identificar fatores associados entre usuários adultos de um serviço de atenção básica no município do Rio de Janeiro, Brasil. Desenvolvido através de inquérito domiciliar com amostra de 301 indivíduos que responderam a um instrumento de coleta que continha o Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test e variáveis de caracterização sociodemográfica e de saúde. A regressão logística foi utilizada para verificar associação entre o padrão de consumo problemático de álcool e as variáveis independentes. Identificaram-se padrões de consumo problemático de álcool entre pessoas do sexo masculino, de cor da pele negra e/ou mestiça, não casadas, sem religião, tabagistas e entre pessoas sem doença crônica acompanhada pela unidade de saúde. Os serviços de saúde devem, portanto, estar preparados para identificar precocemente pessoas que fazem consumo problemático de álcool, a fim de prevenir consequências sociais e de saúde nas populações, espe cial mente nas atendidas pela atenção básica, que tem a promoção da saúde e a prevenção de agravos como práticas sanitárias prioritárias.

Caracterización de la actividad alergénica y enzimática de extractos somáticos producidos a partir de cultivos in vitro del ácaro Dermatophagoide farinae

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Dary Luz Mendoza Meza

2011-01-01

Full Text Available Introduccion: El Dermatophagoides fainae (DF es un acaro cosmopolita presente en el polvo intradomiciliario. Este acaro es fuente importante de aereo-alergenos desencadenantes de asma y rinitis alergica. Objetivo: El proposito de este trabajo fue la produccion y caracterizacion de extractos alergenicos para uso en diagnostico alergologico y terapia. Metodos: Los extractos se prepararon a partir de cultivos puros in vitro de acaros. Las proteinas del acaro fueron extraidas mediante lisis osmotica. La concentracion de proteinas se determino por microensayo de Bradford y el perfil electroforetico fue identificado por SDS-PAGE. La actividad enzimatica fue evaluada con el estuche comercial Api Zym (Biomeriux R y la actividad alergenica por inmunoensayo de Dot Blot. Resultados: Se prepararon cinco lotes de extractos. La media del peso seco de material extraido fue 37,04 mg/gramo de acaros ( DE= 11,3 y la media de la cantidad de proteina fue 212,4 ¿Êg/mg de peso seco (DE= 33,3. El perfil SDS-PAGE mostro la presencia de 8 bandas comunes (21-109 kDa. Todos los extractos presentaron actividad enzimatica hidrolasa. Tambien se demostro actividad tripsina, alfa-amilasa y alfa-quimiotripsina, correspondientes a los alergenos de los acaros del grupo 3, 4 y 6 respectivamente. Todos los extractos tuvieron proteinas con capacidad de union a los anticuerpos IgE. Conclusion: Aqui presentamos la produccion de extractos del acaro DF, con actividad alergenica. Estos resultados fundamentaran la produccion a escala de extractos alergenicos de acaros desencadenantes de enfermedades alergicas en el humano, con fines diagnosticos y de aplicacion terapeutica.

CARACTERIZACIÓN AGROFORESTAL EN SISTEMAS DE CAFÉ TRADICIONAL Y RÚSTICO, EN SAN MIGUEL, VERACRUZ, MÉXICO

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Luis Villavicencio-Enríquez

2013-01-01

Full Text Available Se realizaron caracterizaciones agroforestales en cafetales de tipo tradicional y rústico en la comunidad de San Miguel, Amatlán de los Reyes, Veracruz, México, con el objetivo de analizarlos y compararlos entre sí. Los resultados indican que ambos sistemas obtienen beneficios económicos similares aunque la composición de especies del dosel y los productos obtenidos son distintos. El principal producto económico son los árboles maderables (Cedrela odorata, Robinsonella mirandae y Mastichodendron capirii, seguido del café (Coffea arabica y C. canephora y las palmas Chamaedorae tepejilote y Chamaedorae elegans. La relación beneficio/costo obtenida para la venta de los productos forestales y agrícolas indica una mayor ganancia económica para el sistema rústico de café ($ 20,784.00·año-1·ha-1 respecto al sistema tradicional de café ($ 19,236.00·año-1·ha-1. Aunque las ganancias en ambos sistemas son relativamente buenas, el efecto que este tipo de explotación tiene sobre los recursos forestales puede ser poco sustentable a través del tiempo, ya que en el sistema rústico no existen labores de reforestación. El sistema tradicional de café se encuentra en una mejor condición de sustentabilidad y producción a largo plazo, ya que los elementos utilizados para la comercialización de árboles maderables y para combustible son reforestados por la importancia comercial que éstos tienen.

Caracterización óptica y estructural de nanopartículas de Allium sativum L. impregnadas en lomo de bovino

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Kelly Johana Figueroa-López

2015-01-01

Full Text Available En el trabajo se determinaron las características ópticas y estructurales de nanopartículas de polvo de ajo (Allium sativum L., obtenidas por reducción y selección de tamaño, para comparación con muestras de polvo de ajo comercial. El tamaño de partícula se determinó empleando microscopía electrónica de transmisión (TEM y las caracterizaciones óptica y estructural se realizaron, respectivamente, por espectroscopia infrarroja transformada de Fourier (FTIR y difracción de rayos X (DRX. Para determinar el efecto de las nanopartículas de polvo de ajo cuando fueron aplicadas sobre trozos de lomo (Longissimus dorsi de bovino se utilizó la técnica de fluorescencia. Los tamaños de las partículas del polvo sometido a reducción y selección de tamaño presentaron valores entre 50 y 100 nm y las de polvo de ajo normal entre 400 y 500 nm. En los espectros de FTIR se observaron los principales grupos funcionales y los difractogramas de rayos X permitieron concluir que se trata de materiales amorfos. Por su tamaño más reducido, las nanopartículas migran más rápido al interior del músculo del bovino que las micropartículas, lo que permite una mejor absorción y aprovechamiento de sus componentes y se constituye en un resultado innovador en el campo de la ciencia de los alimentos.

Algunos problemas relacionados con las ilustraciones en las traducciones de una obra clásica de la literatura infantil y juvenil: el caso de Caperucita Roja en España

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Hanna Martens

2012-09-01

Full Text Available http://dx.doi.org/10.5007/2175-795X.2012v30n3p817 En una edición ilustrada de una obra literaria los elementos verbales se combinany completan con el aspecto visual del volumen para transmitir su mensaje al lector.Al traducir la obra a otro idioma, se intenta, en la medida de lo posible, respetar elequilibrio establecido entre la información proporcionada en el texto y en las imágenes.Si se trata de una obra clásica, sin embargo, que se sigue editando a lo largo de variossiglos, la situación suele complicarse, ya que, como es habitual, no sólo se realizannuevas traducciones, sino que también van cambiando las ilustraciones. Este es el casode las traducciones españolas del cuento de “Le Petit Chaperon Rouge” (CaperucitaRoja de Perrault. Las ilustraciones han tenido una importancia innegable en larecepción de la obra, creando cierto ambiente y completando las caracterizaciones delos personajes. Así, algunas ilustraciones se han mostrado particularmente influyentes,no sólo dejando su huella en los ilustradores de las generaciones posteriores, sinollegando a introducir también modificaciones en las traducciones del propio cuento.Además, es tal el poder de las imágenes que llegan a manipular el contenido de la obra,destacando ciertos elementos en detrimento de otros o defendiendo abiertamentecierta ideología. A veces, incluso, pueden llegar a producirse incongruencias entre eltexto y las imágenes que lo acompañan.

Colonizar los sentidos: ‘calls center’ y las nuevas formas de dominación/resistencia en las relaciones capital-trabajo

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María Belén Espoz

2010-12-01

Full Text Available El presente libro reúne desde una perspectiva transdisciplinaria, reflexiones sobre un fenómeno particular: las heterogéneas situaciones y múltiples lecturas sobre la problemática de los Call Centers en Argentina. Situados en el eje que expresa la conflictividad que tensa la relación capital-trabajo, esta compilación se establece como un punto de entrada posible, en tanto describe y analiza, a una problemática novedosa centrada en las caracterizaciones de esta actividad donde trabajo, comunicación y tecnología se triangulan modificando las dinámicas productivas anteriores. En este contexto, los diversos artículos describen nuevas tecnologías de disciplinamiento y control en el trabajo, como así también nuevas formas de resistencias –cuya mediación es la tecnología- ya sea, desde la perspectiva del sujeto-trabajador, o desde una visión estructural que coloca esta actividad en el entramado global de las relaciones de capital-trabajo. La compilación en su totalidad va combinando perspectivas que especifican la actividad en tanto fenómeno actual con características propias, con miradas críticas que sitúan el fenómeno como síntoma que expresa la metamorfosis actual del capitalismo: la expropiación energética alcanza los sentidos mismos –y las terminales nerviosas - de los trabajadores expresándose en las maneras de sentir-se un cuerpo.

[Effects of pressure induced retinal ischemia on ERG in rabbit].

Science.gov (United States)

Song, G; Yang, X; Zhang, Z; Zhang, D

2001-12-01

To observe the effects of pressure induced retinal ischemia on electroretinogram(ERG) in rabbit. Retinal ischemia was induced in rabbits by increasing intraocular pressure at 30 mmHg, 60 mmHg, 90 mmHg, 120 mmHg for 45 minutes, and retinal function was monitored by eletroretinography. There was no difference on ERG before or after the experiment both in 30 mmHg group and control one. In 60 mmHg pressure induced ischemia eyes, the amplitudes of the b-wave and OPs wave reduced significantly. Four hours after reperfusion, they were totally recovered. After an ischemic insult of 90 mmHg or 120 mmHg for 45 minutes, there was no response of ERG. Four hours later, the amplitudes of the b-wave and OPs wave were 66.912 +/- 20.157 and 16.423 +/- 3.965 the former, 38.852 +/- 23.438 and 8.610 +/- 12.090 the latter, respectively. These results suggest that higher intraocular pressure causes more severe retina ischemic damage, and less recovery ability.

Two opsins from the compound eye of the crab Hemigrapsus sanguineus

Science.gov (United States)

Sakamoto; Hisatomi; Tokunaga; Eguchi

1996-01-01

The primary structures of two opsins from the brachyuran crab Hemigrapsus sanguineus were deduced from the cDNA nucleotide sequences. Both deduced proteins were composed of 377 amino acid residues and included residues highly conserved in visual pigments of other species, and the proteins were 75 % identical to each other. The distribution of opsin transcripts in the compound eye, determined by in situ hybridization, suggested that the mRNAs of the two opsins were expressed simultaneously in all of the seven retinular cells (R1-R7) forming the main rhabdom in each ommatidium. Two different visual pigments may be present in one photoreceptor cell in this brachyuran crab. The spectral sensitivity of the compound eye was also determined by recording the electroretinogram. The compound eye was maximally sensitive at about 480 nm. These and previous findings suggest that both opsins of this brachyuran crab produce visual pigments with maximal absorption in the blue-green region of the spectrum. Evidence is presented that crustaceans possess multiple pigment systems for vision.

Mutation K42E in dehydrodolichol diphosphate synthase (DHDDS) causes recessive retinitis pigmentosa.

Science.gov (United States)

Lam, Byron L; Züchner, Stephan L; Dallman, Julia; Wen, Rong; Alfonso, Eduardo C; Vance, Jeffery M; Peričak-Vance, Margaret A

2014-01-01

A single-nucleotide mutation in the gene that encodes DHDDS has been identified by whole exome sequencing as the cause of the non-syndromic recessive retinitis pigmentosa (RP) in a family of Ashkenazi Jewish origin in which three of the four siblings have early onset retinal degeneration. The peripheral retinal degeneration in the affected siblings was evident in the initial examination in 1992 and only one had detectable electroretinogram (ERG) that suggested cone-rod dysfunction. The pigmentary retinal degeneration subsequently progressed rapidly. The identified mutation changes the highly conserved residue Lys42 to Glu, resulting in lower catalytic efficiency. Patterns of plasma transferrin isoelectric focusing gel were normal in all family members, indicating no significant abnormality in protein glycosylation. Dolichols have been shown to influence the fluidity and of the membrane and promote vesicle fusion. Considering that photoreceptor outer segments contain stacks of membrane discs, we believe that the mutation may lead to low dolichol levels in photoreceptor outer segments, resulting in unstable membrane structure that leads to photoreceptor degeneration.

Electrogenic glutamate uptake is a major current carrier in the membrane of axolotl retinal glial cells

Science.gov (United States)

Brew, Helen; Attwell, David

1987-06-01

Glutamate is taken up avidly by glial cells in the central nervous system1. Glutamate uptake may terminate the transmitter action of glutamate released from neurons1, and keep extracellular glutamate at concentrations below those which are neurotoxic. We report here that glutamate evokes a large inward current in retinal glial cells which have their membrane potential and intracellular ion concentrations controlled by the whole-cell patch-clamp technique2. This current seems to be due to an electrogenic glutamate uptake carrier, which transports at least two sodium ions with every glutamate anion carried into the cell. Glutamate uptake is strongly voltage-dependent, decreasing at depolarized potentials: when fully activated, it contributes almost half of the conductance in the part of the glial cell membrane facing the retinal neurons. The spatial localization, glutamate affinity and magnitude of the uptake are appropriate for terminating the synaptic action of glutamate released from photoreceptors and bipolar cells. These data challenge present explanations of how the b-wave of the electroretinogram is generated, and suggest a mechanism for non-vesicular voltage-dependent release of glutamate from neurons.

Effect of NCAM on aged-related deterioration in vision.

Science.gov (United States)

Luke, Margaret Po-Shan; LeVatte, Terry L; O'Reilly, Amanda M; Smith, Benjamin J; Tremblay, François; Brown, Richard E; Clarke, David B

2016-05-01

The neural cell adhesion molecule (NCAM) is involved in developmental processes and age-associated cognitive decline; however, little is known concerning the effects of NCAM in the visual system during aging. Using anatomical, electrophysiological, and behavioral assays, we analyzed age-related changes in visual function of NCAM deficient (-/-) and wild-type mice. Anatomical analyses indicated that aging NCAM -/- mice had fewer retinal ganglion cells, thinner retinas, and fewer photoreceptor cell layers than age-matched controls. Electroretinogram testing of retinal function in young adult NCAM -/- mice showed a 2-fold increase in a- and b-wave amplitude compared with wild-type mice, but the retinal activity dropped dramatically to control levels when the animals reached 10 months. In behavioral tasks, NCAM -/- mice had no visual pattern discrimination ability and showed premature loss of vision as they aged. Together, these findings demonstrate that NCAM plays significant roles in the adult visual system in establishing normal retinal anatomy, physiology and function, and in maintaining vision during aging. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Functional and Morphological Evaluation of Traumatized Eyes With Berlin's Edema Affecting the Macula Using mfERG, Microperimetry, and SD-OCT.

Science.gov (United States)

Boss, Joseph Daniel; Tosi, Joaquin; Glybina, Inna; Tewari, Asheesh; Abrams, Gary W

2017-02-01

To describe the structural and functional changes that occur in traumatic Berlin's edema involving the macula through assessment with multifocal electroretinogram (mfERG), microperimetry, fundus photography, and spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT). Retrospective case series of five eyes from four patients with macular traumatic Berlin's edema. Patients underwent baseline mfERG (three eyes), MP1 microperimetry (three eyes), fundus photography (five eyes), and SD-OCT (five eyes). All eyes with Berlin's edema showed abnormal findings on baseline SD-OCT, including disruption and fragmentation of the inner segment/ outer segment layer. In two patients with unilateral blunt ocular trauma who underwent mfERG, there was complete loss of the foveal peak in affected eyes. All three eyes that underwent microperimetry showed depressed retinal sensitivity in the area of Berlin's edema. SD-OCT, microperimetry, and mfERG can be used to help diagnose, stratify traumatic severity, and follow structural and functional progression over time in patients with Berlin's edema. [Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina. 2017;48:114-121.]. Copyright 2017, SLACK Incorporated.

Curcumin Delays Retinal Degeneration by Regulating Microglia Activation in the Retina of rd1 Mice.

Science.gov (United States)

Wang, Yanhe; Yin, Zhiyuan; Gao, Lixiong; Sun, Dayu; Hu, Xisu; Xue, Langyue; Dai, Jiaman; Zeng, YuXiao; Chen, Siyu; Pan, Boju; Chen, Min; Xie, Jing; Xu, Haiwei

2017-01-01

Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is characterized by degeneration of photoreceptors, and there are currently no effective treatments for this disease. However, curcumin has shown neuroprotectant efficacy in a RP rat and swine model, and thus, may have neuroprotective effects in this disease. Immunofluorescence staining, electroretinogram recordings, and behavioral tests were used to analyze the effects of curcumin and the underlying mechanism in retinal degeneration 1 (rd1) mice. The number of apoptotic cells in the retina of rd1 mice at postnatal day 14 significantly decreased with curcumin treatment and visual function was improved. The activation of microglia and secretion of chemokines and matrix metalloproteinases in the retina were inhibited by curcumin. These effects were also observed in a co-culture of BV2 microglial cells and retina-derived 661W cells. Curcumin delayed retinal degeneration by suppressing microglia activation in the retina of rd1 mice. Thus, it may be an effective treatment for neurodegenerative disorders such as RP. © 2017 The Author(s). Published by S. Karger AG, Basel.

Frequency Domain Electroretinography in Retinitis Pigmentosa versus Normal Eyes

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Homa Hassan-Karimi

2012-01-01

Full Text Available Purpose: To compare electroretinogram (ERG characteristics in patients with retinitis pigmentosa (RP and normal subjects using frequency domain analysis. Methods: Five basic ERG recordings were performed in normal subjects and patients with a clinical diagnosis of RP according to the ISCEV (International Society of Clinical Electrophysiology of Vision protocol. Frequency domain analysis was performed by MATLAB software. Different frequency domain parameters were compared between the study groups. Results: Peak frequency (Fmod of flicker and oscillatory responses in RP patients showed significant (P<0.0001 high pass response as compared to normal controls. Peak frequency (Fmod of the other responses was not significantly different between the two groups. Conclusion: In addition to conventional ERG using time domain methods, frequency domain analysis may be useful for diagnosis of RP. Oscillatory and flicker responses may be analyzed in frequency domain. Fast Fourier transform may reveal two distinct high pass responses (shift to higher frequencies in Fmod. Time and frequency domain analyses may be performed simultaneously with many modern ERG machines and may therefore be recommended in RP patients.

[Age factor in eye regeneration of the gastropod mollusk Achatina fulica].

Science.gov (United States)

Tartakovskaia, O S; Borisenko, S L; Zhukov, V V

2003-01-01

The dependence of the ability to regenerate the eye on the age of experimental animals was studied in the snail Achatina fulica. The degree of regeneration was estimated by light-microscopic and electrophysiological methods and by analyzing the motor response to visual stimuli. In older age groups, the number of regenerated eye-bearing tentacles decreased, whereas the period of regeneration increased. The regenerated eyes of the snails operated at the age of more than two months remained smaller than normal eyes even after six months. Regeneration of the distal part of the optic nerve was observed, and the regenerated eyes recovered the ability to respond to stimulation by light. In the electroretinogram, the responses of the regenerated eye, compared to the control, were characterised by a lower amplitude and longer repolarization and refractory periods. Manifestations of the motor response to visual stimuli in the young snails with regenerating eyes could be regarded as evidence for the recovery of connection between the organ of sight and the central ganglia.

The spectral sensitivity of the lens eyes of a box jellyfish, Tripedalia cystophora (Conant)

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Coates, Melissa M; Garm, Anders; Theobald, Jamie C

2006-01-01

Box jellyfish, or cubomedusae (class Cubozoa), are unique among the Cnidaria in possessing lens eyes similar in morphology to those of vertebrates and cephalopods. Although these eyes were described over 100 years ago, there has been no work done on their electrophysiological responses to light. ...... result from the presence of a single receptor type containing a single opsin. The peak sensitivity is to blue-green light. Visual pigment template fits indicate a vitamin A-1 based opsin with peak sensitivity near 500 nm for both eye types.......Box jellyfish, or cubomedusae (class Cubozoa), are unique among the Cnidaria in possessing lens eyes similar in morphology to those of vertebrates and cephalopods. Although these eyes were described over 100 years ago, there has been no work done on their electrophysiological responses to light. We...... used an electroretinogram (ERG) technique to measure spectral sensitivity of the lens eyes of the Caribbean species Tripedalia cystophora. The cubomedusae have two kinds of lens eyes, the lower and upper lens eyes. We found that both lens eye types have similar spectral sensitivities, which likely...

A partial structural and functional rescue of a retinitis pigmentosa model with compacted DNA nanoparticles.

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Xue Cai

Full Text Available Previously we have shown that compacted DNA nanoparticles can drive high levels of transgene expression after subretinal injection in the mouse eye. Here we delivered compacted DNA nanoparticles containing a therapeutic gene to the retinas of a mouse model of retinitis pigmentosa. Nanoparticles containing the wild-type retinal degeneration slow (Rds gene were injected into the subretinal space of rds(+/- mice on postnatal day 5. Gene expression was sustained for up to four months at levels up to four times higher than in controls injected with saline or naked DNA. The nanoparticles were taken up into virtually all photoreceptors and mediated significant structural and biochemical rescue of the disease without histological or functional evidence of toxicity. Electroretinogram recordings showed that nanoparticle-mediated gene transfer restored cone function to a near-normal level in contrast to transfer of naked plasmid DNA. Rod function was also improved. These findings demonstrate that compacted DNA nanoparticles represent a viable option for development of gene-based interventions for ocular diseases and obviate major barriers commonly encountered with non-viral based therapies.

cAMP level modulates scleral collagen remodeling, a critical step in the development of myopia.

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Yijin Tao

Full Text Available The development of myopia is associated with decreased ocular scleral collagen synthesis in humans and animal models. Collagen synthesis is, in part, under the influence of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP. We investigated the associations between cAMP, myopia development in guinea pigs, and collagen synthesis by human scleral fibroblasts (HSFs. Form-deprived myopia (FDM was induced by unilateral masking of guinea pig eyes. Scleral cAMP levels increased selectively in the FDM eyes and returned to normal levels after unmasking and recovery. Unilateral subconjunctival treatment with the adenylyl cyclase (AC activator forskolin resulted in a myopic shift accompanied by reduced collagen mRNA levels, but it did not affect retinal electroretinograms. The AC inhibitor SQ22536 attenuated the progression of FDM. Moreover, forskolin inhibited collagen mRNA levels and collagen secretion by HSFs. The inhibition was reversed by SQ22536. These results demonstrate a critical role of cAMP in control of myopia development. Selective regulation of cAMP to control scleral collagen synthesis may be a novel therapeutic strategy for preventing and treating myopia.

¿Crisis o transición? Caracterizaciones intelectuales. Del dualismo argentino en la apertura democrática

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Visacovsky, Sergio E

2005-06-01

Full Text Available This article presents an analysis of the conceptual organization of the "democratic transition" model, through which an important sector of social scientists represented the military dictatorship crisis in Argentina in 1982, and interpreted its advent and ending, to guide the society towards its definitive democratization. This model was based on ideas and conceptual structures produced and used in the Argentine society to describe and to interpret the political process. We will explain that the notion of "crisis" was replaced for the democratic transition model; this paradigm was made according to the classic frames of Argentine thinking, and for this reason it was not only an interpretative frame to the inauguration of a new era and the final overcoming of the democratic instability, but also a perspective on political past and the causes of “authoritarianism”.

Este trabajo presenta un análisis de la organización conceptual del modelo de “transición a la democracia” mediante el cual un amplio sector de científicos sociales conceptualizó la crisis de la última dictadura militar en la Argentina en 1982, e interpretaron su advenimiento y desenlace, para guiar a la sociedad hacia su definitiva democratización. Este modelo estaba sustentado en nociones y estructuras conceptuales producidas y empleadas en la sociedad argentina para describir e interpretar el proceso político. La noción de “crisis” revirtió en una aplicación del modelo de transición a la democracia que, aún cuando se propuso como un marco interpretativo volcado a la inauguración de una nueva era y a la superación definitiva de las interrupciones democráticas, conllevó una perspectiva sobre el pasado político y, en especial, sobre las causas del “autoritarismo”, que se forjó dentro de los moldes clásicos del pensamiento argentino.

Characterization of pre-hispanic pigments by modern analytical techniques; Caracterizacion de pigmentos prehispanicos por tecnicas analiticas modernas

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Ortega A, M

2003-07-01

In this work, the study of mural painting pigments from two archaeological sites (The Great Temple in Mexico city and Cacaxtla) was performed to know their materials composition, identify their structural characteristics and properties by using modern analytical techniques. Blue, ochre, red and black pigments of Mexica culture (1325-1521 a.C. / late Post Classic period); blue, ochre, red, brown, pink, green and white of Olmeca- Xicalanca culture (700-900 a.C. / Epiclassic period) were studied. Data about materials used, technological evolution, mineralogical background, cultural interchange and origin was obtained. Environmental exposition of these paintings since their discovering has produced changes and damage on their materials. Therefore, stability of some pigments has been notorious, ''Maya Blue'' specially presents extraordinary resistance to diluted and concentrated acids and alkalis including boiling condition, acqua regia, solvents, oxidant and reducing agents, moderate heat and biocorrosi6n; for that reason its study was emphasized. ''Maya Blue'' pigment was synthesized in laboratory using the processes described by historic sources (with indigophera suffruticosa leaves and synthetic indigo) up to obtain a stable pigment including acqua regia action. Clay matrix sorbs nearly 0.4 weight percent of organic dye, which cover 79% of palygorskita surface area. (Author)

Quantitative Characterization of Phosphor Detector for Fusion Plasmas; Caracterizacion Cuantitativa de Detectores Luminiscentes para Plasmas de Fusion

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Baciero, A; Zurro, B; McCarthy, K J

2004-07-01

Experiments made to characterize phosphor screens with application as broadband radiation detectors, are described. Several radiation sources, covering the spectral range between the ultraviolet and X ray, were used. In addition, details are given of three original phosphor-screen-based detectors that were designed for use as broadband detectors in magnetically confined fusion devices. The first measurements obtained with these detectors in plasmas created in the TJ-II stellarator device are presented together with the analysis performed. (Author)

CARACTERIZACION DE LAS CONCEPCIONES SOBRE MEDIO AMBIENTE EN ESTUDIANTES Y PROFESORES DE UN PROGRAMA DE FORMACION INICIAL

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Sergio Andres Yepes Conde

2015-12-01

Full Text Available El trabajo se desarrolla como una propuesta de modalidad de grado para obtener el título de Licenciatura en Ciencias Naturales: Física, Química y Biología en la Universidad Surcolombiana. Se aborda la investigación de las concepciones sobre medio ambiente en estudiantes de practica I, II y profesores de la Licenciatura en Ciencias Naturales, con el propósito de realizar una caracterización y proponer recomendaciones acerca de las concepciones que se presenta. Para lograrlo se proponen unas fases en la investigación, las cuales evidencian las diferentes etapas que se deben cumplir para la realización del trabajo y alcanzar el objetivo de caracterizar las concepciones sobre medio ambiente. El trabajo se hará tomando una población de aproximadamente 30 personas, las cuales comprenden estudiantes de práctica del periodo de estudio 2015-B, y los profesores de planta y catedráticos de la licenciatura.

CARACTERIZACION DE GENES DESHIDRINA EN EUCALYPTUS GLOBULUS CUYA EXPRESION ES INDUCIDA POR LA ACLIMATACION A BAJA TEMPERATURA

OpenAIRE

FERNANDEZ REYES, MARTA ALEJANDRA

2011-01-01

Eucalyptus globulus es una especie importante para la producción de pulpa de madera en Chile, sin embargo presenta una gran sensibilidad a temperaturas de congelamiento. Durante los últimos años, muchos estudios han enfocado sus esfuerzos en dilucidar los mecanismos que regulan la respuesta de las plantas a baja temperatura, mediante el análisis de la expresión génica. En el presente trabajo se estudia la expresión de genes deshidrina durante el proceso de aclimatación a baja temperatura y...

CARACTERIZACION DE GENES DESHIDRINA EN EUCALYPTUS GLOBULUS CUYA EXPRESION ES INDUCIDA POR LA ACLIMATACION A BAJA TEMPERATURA

OpenAIRE

FERNANDEZ REYES ; MARTA ALEJANDRA; FERNANDEZ REYES ; MARTA ALEJANDRA

2011-01-01

Eucalyptus globulus es una especie importante para la producción de pulpa de madera en Chile, sin embargo presenta una gran sensibilidad a temperaturas de congelamiento. Durante los últimos años, muchos estudios han enfocado sus esfuerzos en dilucidar los mecanismos que regulan la respuesta de las plantas a baja temperatura, mediante el análisis de la expresión génica. En el presente trabajo se estudia la expresión de genes deshidrina durante el proceso de aclimatación a baja temperatura y la...

Characterization dosimetry of applicators Valencia using different techniques; Caracterizacion dosimetrica de los aplicadores Valencia mediante diferentes tecnicas

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Ferrer Garcia, C.; Huertas, C.; Huerga Cabrerizo, C.; Corredoira Silva, E.; Serrada Hierro, A.

2013-07-01

Valencia applicators, connected to a charging system deferred micro Selectron-HDR (Elekta-Nucletron), are used for treating small skin lesions, being an alternative to treatments with electron beams or orthovoltage equipment of X ray. These applicators are a modification of Leipzig applicators, consisting of a flatter filter, which flattens the dose distribution in the area of treatment [1,2]. In the present study are considered applicators with diameters of 2 and 3 cm (VH2 and ht5), with the parallel to the treatment area source. Due to the electronic pollution on the walls of the applicator, treatments are performed with a plastic cap. In this study are commissions Valencia applicators, checking the various options proposed in the literature. (Author)

Characterization and packaging of disused sealed radioactive sources; Caracterizacion y acondicionamiento de fuentes radiactivas selladas en desuso

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Aguilar, S.L. [Instituto Boliviano de Ciencia y Tecnologia Nuclear (IBTEN), La Paz (Bolivia, Plurinational State of)

2013-07-01

In Bolivia are generated disused sealed sources and radioactive waste resulting from the use of radioactive materials in industrial, research and medicine. The last includes the diagnosis and treatment. Whereas exposure to ionizing radiation is a potential hazard to personnel who applies it, to those who benefit from its use or for the community at large, it is necessary to control the activities in this field. The Instituto Boliviano de Ciencia y Tecnologia Nuclear - IBTEN is working on a regional project from International Atomic Energy Agency - IAEA, RLA/09/062 Project - TSA 4, Strengthening the National Infrastructure and Regulatory Framework for the Safe Management of Radioactive waste in Latin America. This Project has strengthened the regulatory framework regarding the safe management of radioactive waste. The aim of this work was focused primarily on the security aspects in the safe management of disused sealed sources. The tasks are listed below: 1. Characterization of disused sealed sources 2. Preparation for transport to temporary storage 3. Control of all disused radioactive sources. (author)

Characterization of pre-hispanic pigments by modern analytical techniques; Caracterizacion de pigmentos prehispanicos por tecnicas analiticas modernas

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Ortega A, M

2003-07-01

In this work, the study of mural painting pigments from two archaeological sites (The Great Temple in Mexico city and Cacaxtla) was performed to know their materials composition, identify their structural characteristics and properties by using modern analytical techniques. Blue, ochre, red and black pigments of Mexica culture (1325-1521 a.C. / late Post Classic period); blue, ochre, red, brown, pink, green and white of Olmeca- Xicalanca culture (700-900 a.C. / Epiclassic period) were studied. Data about materials used, technological evolution, mineralogical background, cultural interchange and origin was obtained. Environmental exposition of these paintings since their discovering has produced changes and damage on their materials. Therefore, stability of some pigments has been notorious, ''Maya Blue'' specially presents extraordinary resistance to diluted and concentrated acids and alkalis including boiling condition, acqua regia, solvents, oxidant and reducing agents, moderate heat and biocorrosi6n; for that reason its study was emphasized. ''Maya Blue'' pigment was synthesized in laboratory using the processes described by historic sources (with indigophera suffruticosa leaves and synthetic indigo) up to obtain a stable pigment including acqua regia action. Clay matrix sorbs nearly 0.4 weight percent of organic dye, which cover 79% of palygorskita surface area. (Author)

Characterization of Pt catalysts supported in mixed oxides; Caracterizacion de catalizadores de Pt soportado en oxidos mixtos

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Perez H, R.; Garcia C, M.A.; Gomez C, A.; Diaz, G. [Instituto Nacional de Investigaciones Nucleares, A.P. 18-1027, 11801 Mexico D.F. (Mexico)

2000-07-01

The catalytic supports TiO{sub 2}, ZrO{sub 2} and TiO{sub 2}-ZrO{sub 2} were prepared by the sol-gel technique. The incorporation of Pt to the supports was by the classical impregnation method. The catalytic materials were characterized (Pt/TiO{sub 2}, Pt/ZrO{sub 2} and Pt/TiO{sub 2}-ZrO{sub 2}) by diverse techniques to determine: the texture (BET), evolution of the catalytic materials synthesised after drying and calcination (Infrared spectroscopy) and by Thermogravimetric analysis. (Author)

Personal Docente del Nivel Primario. Series Estadisticas Basicas, Nivel Educativo: Caldas (Teaching Personnel in Primary Schools. Basic Statistics Series, Level of Education: Caldas).

Science.gov (United States)

Ministerio de Educacion Nacional, Bogota (Colombia). Instituto Colombiano de Pedagogia.

This document provides statistical data on the distribution and education of teaching personnel working in the elementary schools of Caldas, Colombia, between 1958 and 1967. The statistics cover the number of men and women, public and private schools, urban and rural location, and the amount of education of the teachers. For overall statistics in…

Personal Docente des Nivel Primario. Series Estadisticas Basicas, Nivel Educativo: Narino (Teaching Personnel in Primary Schools. Basic Statistics Series, Level of Education: Narino).

Science.gov (United States)

Ministerio de Educacion Nacional, Bogota (Colombia). Instituto Colombiano de Pedagogia.

This document provides statistical data on the distribution and education of teaching personnel working in the elementary schools of Narino, Colombia, between 1958 and 1967. The statistics cover the number of men and women, public and private schools, urban and rural location, and the amount of education of the teachers. For overall statistics in…

Personal Docente del Nivel Primario. Series Estadisticas Basicas, Nivel Educativo: Cauca (Teaching Personnel in Primary Schools. Basic Statistics Series, Level of Education: Cauca).

Science.gov (United States)

Ministerio de Educacion Nacional, Bogota (Colombia). Instituto Colombiano de Pedagogia.

This document provides statistical data on the distribution and education of teaching personnel working in the elementary schools of Cauca, Colombia, between 1958 and 1967. The statistics cover the number of men and women, public and private schools, urban and rural location, and the amount of education of the teachers. For overall statistics in…

Personal Docente del Nivel Primario. Series Estadisticas Basicas, Nivel Educativo: Cordoba (Teaching Personnel in Primary Schools. Basic Statistics Series , Level of Education: Cordoba).

Science.gov (United States)

Ministerio de Educacion Nacional, Bogota (Colombia). Instituto Colombiano de Pedagogia.

This document provides statistical data on the distribution and education of teaching personnel working the elementary schools of Cordoba, Colombia, between 1958 and 1967. The statistics cover the number of men and women, public and private schools, urban and rural location, and the amount of education of the teachers. For overall statistics in…

Personal Docente del Nivel Primario. Series Estadisticas Basicas, Nivel Educativo: Boyaca (Teaching Personnel in Primary Schools. Basic Statistics Series, Level of Education: Boyaca).

Science.gov (United States)

Ministerio de Educacion Nacional, Bogota (Colombia). Instituto Colombiano de Pedagogia.

This document provides statistical data on the distribution and education of teaching personnel working in the elementary schools of Boyaca, Colombia, between 1958 and 1967. The statistics cover the number of men and women, public and private schools, urban and rural location, and the amount of education of the teachers. For overall statistics in…

Personal Docente del Nivel Primario. Series Estadisticas Basicas, Nivel Educativo: Huila (Teaching Personnel in Primary Schools. Basic Statistics Series, Level of Education: Huila).

Science.gov (United States)

Ministerio de Educacion Nacional, Bogota (Colombia). Instituto Colombiano de Pedagogia.

This document provides statistical data on the distribution and education of teaching personnel working in the elementary schools of Huila, Colombia, between 1958 and 1967. The statistics cover the number of men and women, public and private schools, urban and rural location, and the amount of education of the teachers. For overall statistics in…

UNA TEORIA BASICA DEL DESEQUILIBRIO EN EL ESPACIO ECONOMICO: DEL EQUILIBRIO EN EL ESPACIO HOMOGÉNEO AL DESARROLLO DESIGUAL EN EL CAPITALISMO GLOBAL

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Franz Hinkelammert

2005-07-01

Full Text Available En las ciencias sociales de latinoamericanas, una intensa discusión sobre los procesos de desarrollo,  subdesarrollo, dependencia, imperialismo y otros conceptos similares o relacionados, data desde hace más de 50 años. La teoría de la CEPAL de los años 50 y 60 del pasado siglo introdujo la noción de centro-periferia, como un marco general para su explicación del subdesarrollo. La tradición marxista puso, y sigue poniendo, el énfasis en la extracción y transferencia de excedentes hacia los centros desarrollados, aunque los mecanismos de esta transferencia no han sido del todo aclarados teóricamente (distintas variantes del “intercambio desigual”. Y la llamada escuela de la dependenciallamó la atención sobre la dialéctica entre desarrollo y subdesarrollo, siendo el subdesarrollo de las zonas periféricas un resultado, más o menos mecánico, del desarrollo de los centros; teniendo la virtud de resaltar el carácter global y estructuralmente diferenciado del capitalismo, pero sin lograr explicar esta dialéctica que era su punto de partida.

Basic strategies in the electric power industry in the new competitive environment; Estrategias basicas na industria de energia eletrica no novo ambiente competitivo

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Ribeiro Filho, Ary Pinto [Agencia Nacional de Energia Eletrica (ANEEL), Brasilia, DF (Brazil)]. E-mail: arypinto@aneel.gov.br; Moraes, Walter Fernando Araujo de [Pernambuco Univ., Recife, PE (Brazil)]. E-mail: wfam@npd.ufpe.br

1999-07-01

This work identifies the probable strategic characteristics of the interconnected North-Northeast Brazilian electricity industry, after the current restructuring and privatization process has been implemented. It is a 15.0 thousand MW generation industry supplying more than 33.5 million consumers. The normative scenery for analysis of the electricity industry takes into consideration the premises that the government establishes the vertical separation of generation, transmission, distribution and retailing, and introduces the regulation to a competitive industrial structure in generation and retailing. It is assumed that free access to transmit and distribute electricity and broad choices for consumers are the main features for competition in both generation and retailing. The essence of formulating strategy is to relate a company with its environment, considering the industrial structure. The probable generic strategies and industrial trends are presented, and considerations are made concerned with the future expansion capacity. Finally, in the new industrial structure which will settle after the deregulation and privatization, the main strategic issues of the companies will likely focus on: profitability, cost control, managerial competence, consumer behavior, and new technologies, in special the ones related to modern thermal power plants. (author)

Photo-catalysis Plants from basic research to commercial reality; Plantas de tratamiento mediante fotocatalisis solar: de la investigacion basica a una realidad comercial

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Blanco, J.; Malato, S.

2007-07-01

The degradation process of nonbiodegradable organic substances by means of photo catalysis techniques allows the effective elimination of pollutants presents in water and air. The development during the last years of the solar photo catalysis technology, commonly called solar detoxification, has allowed that the first commercial plants based on solar collectors for the treatment of waste water containing persistent organic compounds become a reality. CIEMAT has played an essential roll on this process. This technology is based on the application of two different techniques (photo-Fenton and UV/TiO{sub 2} processes) implemented in static solar collectors CPC type (parabolic-compound). (Author)

CARACTERIZACION DE RIZOBACTERIAS PROMOTORAS DEL ENRAIZAMIENTO DE ESTACAS DE EUCALYPTUS GLOBULUS LABILL. : MECANISMOS DE ACCION Y FLUCTUACION POBLACIONAL

OpenAIRE

DIAZ PERALTA, KATY PAULINA; DIAZ PERALTA, KATY PAULINA

2009-01-01

Las plantaciones de Eucalyptus spp en Chile, son altamente valoradas en el mercado mundial, su producción se basa en la propagación vegetativa de plantas en viveros, a través de estacas y miniestacas; sin embargo, ex iste una variabilidad en el potencial del enraizamiento entre clones de especies e híbridos del género, lo cual no permite obtener el total de plantas en los programas de producción clonal. Diversos estudios han demostrado que bacterias rizosféricas denominadas bacterias promotor...

SINTESIS, CARACTERIZACION Y ELECTRO-OXIDACION DE 2,2- DITIENIL DERIVADOS, EFECTO DE LA FUNCIONALIZACION SOBRE LAS PROPIEDADES ELECTRICAS

OpenAIRE

BROVELLI SEPULVEDA, FRANCISCO ANTONIO

2002-01-01

Desde el descubrimiento de la conducción eléctrica en sistemas poliméricos, se han realizado muchos esfuerzos con el propósito de mejorar tanto la conductividad como la resistencia mecánica de estos materiales, sin embargo, en la última década, se ha manifestado un gran interés por los sistemas semiconductores para el desarrollo de nuevos dispositivos, como por ejemplo, diodos emisores de luz (OLED). Debido a la versatilidad estructural que presentan los polímeras, se ha propuesto la sí...

Synthesis and characterization of the natural and burned hydrotalcite; Sintesis y caracterizacion de la hidrotalcita natural y calcinada

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Granados C, F. [ININ, 52045 Ocoyoacac, Estado de Mexico (Mexico)

2006-07-01

The synthesis and the structural and surface properties of the natural and burned hydrotalcite using salts of AlCl{sub 3} and MgCl{sub 2}.6H{sub 2}O its were studied. Its were used those analysis of BET, IR, XRD, TGA and SEM to characterize these materials. The obtained product was identified as the natural or carbonated hydrotalcite of chemical formula Mg{sub 6}Al{sub 2}(OH){sub 16}CO{sub 3}.4H{sub 2}O. The hydrotalcite was roasted at 500 C during 5 h and the was obtained roasted hydrotalcite (HTC) that is a material of high selectivity toward the anions that it can be efficiently used as adsorbent material in studies of adsorption for the treatment of anionic radioactive waste present in watery solution. (Author)

Preparation and characterisation of mixed silicon oxycarbide materials; Preparacion y caracterizacion de materiales de oxicarburo de silicio mixtos

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Tellez, L.; Tamayo, A.; Mazo, M. A.; Rubio, F.; Rubio, J.

2010-07-01

In this work different mixed Silicon oxicarbide materials have been prepared. Si, Si-Ti, Si-Zr and Si-Al oxicarbide materials have been obtained from pyrolisis at 1000 degree centigrade and 1300 degree centigrade of the respective preceramic materials. After pyrolisis X, D and T units of the oxycarbide structure have been observed in such materials. They show the presence of Si-C and Si-O bonds in a given material. The characterization has been carried out by means of FT-IR, Raman NMR {sup 2}9Si, NMR {sup 1}3C and XRD. The formation of Si-Ti, Si-Zr and Si-Al bonds has been estimated in accordance with the decrease of the Si-O-Si wave number observed in the FT-IR spectra. Si and Si-Ti oxycarbide materials do not lead to crystallisation after pyrolisis at highest temperatures, however for Si-Zr and Si-Al oxycarbide materials different crystalline phases have been observed. All pyrolised materials present free and carbidic carbon. After pyrolisis at 1300 degree centigrade the free carbon reacts with Si-O bonds to form SiC{sub 4} groups which must be assigned to nucleus of the {beta}-SiC crystals. (Author)

Clinic-surgical characterization of the colorectal cancer in inpatients;Caracterizacion clinico quirurgica del cancer colorrectal en pacientes ingresados

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Alejo Concepcion, Osvaldo; Castillo Lamas, Libardo; Umpierrez Garcia, Ibis [Hospital Militar Docente ' Dr Mario Munnoz Monroy' , Matanzas (Cuba)

2009-07-01

The colorectal cancer presents high incidence. This pathology occupies the fifth place among the neoplasias in both sexes in Cuba. With the objective of characterizing this disease we carried out a descriptive transversal study at the service of General Surgery of the University Military Hospital of Matanzas 'Dr. Mario Munnoz Monroy', in the period from January 2001 to January 2005, studying age, sex, familiar oncological antecedents, presentation form, localization and diagnosis of the tumor, and also the surgical technique used in the treatment. The results showed predominance of the male sex in ages between 60 and 69 years old, different symptoms depending on the localization, predominance of the rectal cancer, and others. It was concluded that there is a delay between the beginning of the symptoms and the diagnosis, considerably diminishing the healing possibilities and survival

Dosimetric characterization of KMgF{sub 3}:Tb+PTFE; Caracterizacion dosimetrica de KMgF{sub 3}:Tb+PTFE

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Ramirez R, M. I.; Garcia S, L.; Villicana M, M.; Huirache A, R.; Apolinar C, J. [Universidad Michoacana de San Nicolas de Hidalgo, Facultad de Ingenieria Quimica, Francisco J. Mujica s/n, Ciudad Universitaria, Col. Felicitas del Rio, 58030 Morelia, Michoacan (Mexico); Gonzalez M, P. R., E-mail: itcraf_15@hotmail.com [ININ, Carretera Mexico-Toluca s/n, 52750 Ocoyoacac, Estado de Mexico (Mexico)

2017-10-15

In this work the results obtained from the dosimetric characterization of the new radiation detectors of KMgF{sub 3}:Tb+PTFE are presented. The host salt was obtained by means of the microwave technique, with the polycrystalline powder obtained, dosimeters were made in tablet form, using as Ptfe binder. The thermoluminescent response of these new detectors presented a linear behavior, in the dose range between 1 and 1000 Gy of {sup 60}Co gamma radiation, the reproducibility test in the measurements, during ten cycles of heat treatment, irradiation and reading presented ± 3.7% Ds, in the stability test of thermoluminescent signal, during two months showed that the fading is practically null. Due to the results obtained, this new detector could be very useful for the dosimetry of ionizing radiation in different clinical applications. (Author)

Characterization of the Novillo Tokamak in main discharge regime; Caracterizacion del Tokamak Novillo en regimen de descarga principal

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Lopez C, R.; Melendez L, L.; Chavez A, E.; Colunga S, S.; Valencia A, R.; Gaytan G, E

1992-07-15

The analytical procedure to carry out the establishment of the discharge in a Tokamak including: a) Ionization, b) Diffusion losses, recombination, union, drift speed, spurious fields, and c) Electric field is presented. In an experimental way a procedure settles down by means of which it is characterized the plasma, specially a new characteristic discharge parameter is settled down and it is the plasma current by the duration of the (I{sub p}t) discharge. (Author)

Morphometric characterization in basins affected by the mining industry; Caracterizacion morfometrica en cuencas hidrologicas afectadas por la mineria

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Moreno Bortons, J.; Alonso Sarria, F.; Romero Diaz, A.; Belmonte Serrato, F.

2009-07-01

The intensive exploitation in the mining district of Cartagena la Union during recent centuries has generated a huge amount of waste scattered throughout the Sierra Minera. These debris act a dangerous pollution agent in the drainage network because the generated runoff erodes and disperse these wastes that are highly contaminated by heavy metals. In this way, the drainage networks of the study area been characterized to assess the production of runoff in basins which are sterile deposits, using the method of the Geomorphologic Unit Hydrography (GUH). The peak flows that have been obtained, taking into account the erodibility of soils, are capable of carrying large amounts of pollutants into the two main outlet areas (Mar Menor and Mediterranean Sea), meaning an important source of pollution int two sites of high ecological value. (Author) 6 refs.

Theoretical characterization of the spatial resolution intra-operative probes; Caracterizacion teorica de la resolucion espacial de sondas intraoperatorias

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Agramunt Chaler, S.; Jurado Bruggeman, D.; Munoz Montplet, C.

2013-07-01

This work intends to check that the characterization of the spatial profiles obtained by a an intraoperative probe in the presence of a point source is possible enough making use only of the parameters down time sensitivity and opening of the collimator. (Author)

Experimental characterization. Thermal and solar performance of houses built; Caracterizacion experimental. comportamiento termico y solar de viviendas construidas

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Carrilo, A.; Jurado, L.; Molina, J. C.; Druet, L.

2011-07-01

In this communication we describe the calibration of a simulation model of a house. is the Energy Plus simulation program, and the experimental procedure is based on the method PSTAR (Subbarao, 1988) which are obtained adjustment factors that provide a quantitative interpretation of the discrepancies. (Author)

Evaluation of nickel-rich alloys for the electrolytic generation of hydrogen in an alkaline medium; Evaluacion de aleaciones ricas en niquel para la generacion electrolitica de hidrogeno en medio alcalino

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Ortiz Verdin, A.A.; Ortega Borges, R.; Trejo Cordova, G.; Meas Vong, Y. [Centro de Investigacion y Desarrollo Tecnologico en Electroquimica, S.C., Pedro Escobedo, Queretaro (Mexico)]. E-mail: aortiz@cideteq.mx

2009-09-15

The simultaneous electrodeposition of Ni with metals such as Zn to form alloys enables obtaining surfaces with high electrocatalytic activity or particular characteristics that resist wear and abrasion. This work presents the results of the study of the electrochemical characterization of different types of nickel electrodeposition and compositions, used as cathodes, and measurements of the electrocatalytic activity in the release of hydrogen in an alkaline medium. Curves I through IV were generated, which were potentiostatically obtained in a nitrogen atmosphere in a NaOH alkaline solution. The morphology of the deposits was evaluated with sweep electron micrscopy(SEM). The results enabled evaluating its potential application as electrode materials for the generation of electrolytic hydrogen in alkaline medium, given the good electrocatalytic activity of nickel-rich materials. [Spanish] El electrodeposito simultaneo del Ni, con metales como el Zn para formar aleaciones, permite obtener superficies con elevada actividad electrocatalitica o con caracteristicas particulares de resistencia al desgaste y abrasion. En este trabajo se presentan los resultados del estudio de la caracterizacion electroquimica de los electrodepositos a base de niquel de diferente naturaleza y composicion utilizandolos como catodos midiendo la actividad electrocatalitica con respecto a la reaccion de desprendimiento de hidrogeno (RDH) en medio alcalino. Se realizaron curvas I vs V obtenidas potenciostaticamente bajo atmosfera de nitrogeno en una solucion alcalina de NaOH. La morfologia de los depositos se evaluo mediante SEM (microscopio electronico de barrido). Los resultados permiten evaluar su potencial aplicacion como materiales de electrodo para la generacion electrolitica de hidrogeno en medio alcalino, dada la buena actividad electrocatalitica de los materiales ricos en niquel.

Algunos aspectos técnicos sobre la liofilización de pulpa de cocona (Solanum sessiliflorum Dunal

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Leynard Natividad Marín

2013-12-01

Full Text Available La cocona (Solanum sessiliflorum Dunal es una fruta ampliamente distribuida en la Amazonia Sudamericana, con buenas características nutricionales y antioxidantes. El objetivo de este trabajo fue deshidratar la pulpa de cocona mediante liofilización para evaluar algunos aspectos técnicos de un nuevo tipo de producto que permita su mejor comercialización y mayores usos en la industria alimentaria. Los frutos fueron adquiridos en el Mercado Central de Frutas de Lima (Perú y procesados en el Centro Experimental Tecnológico de la Universidad Nacional del Callao (Callao, Perú. Fue realizado un acondicionamiento y liofilización de la materia prima; en el primero la muestra fue cortada, escaldada, pelada, despulpada, refinada y concentrada al vacío a temperatura de baño de 60 ºC durante 15 minutos y presión de -800 mbar; mientras que en la segunda, se congelaron previamente las muestras durante 12 horas a -20 ºC para su sublimación durante 24 horas a una presión inferior a 200 μHg. Asimismo, se determinaron los rendimientos y contenidos de humedad en el proceso. Se realizaron caracterizaciones en la pulpa refinada, muestra liofilizada y en la pulpa liofilizada reconstituida: contenido de humedad, proteína, extracto etéreo, cenizas, carbohidratos incluido el contenido de fibra, densidad, viscosidad, sólidos solubles, azúcares reductores, acidez titulable, pH y solubilidad, según fue el caso. Se obtuvo un polvo higroscópico, con solubilidad en agua de 84,33 % y con ligeras variaciones en sus características con respecto al producto inicial.

Influence of Ce(III/Ce(IV - supplements on the Characteristics of Humidity Sensors with TiO2 Films Prepared via a Sol-gel Method

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Kozhukharov, S.

2013-04-01

Full Text Available Humidity sensors have been prepared via a sol-gel method to deposit TiO2 films with additions of Ce-compounds on alumina substrates, with interdigitated silver palladium electrodes. Observations by scanning electron microscopy (SEM were performed in order to determine the surface morphology of the respective layers. Structural and compositional characterization was done by X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD, and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX for investigation of the relation between the film structures and the parameters of the respective sensors. The influence of Ce-compounds on the electrical characteristics of the samples as humidity sensing elements has been evaluated by an impedance analyzer.Los sensores de humedad han sido desarrollados mediante el método sol-gel para depositar películas superficiales basadas en TiO2 con adiciones de compuestos de cerio sobre sustratos de corindón y electrodos de aleación de plata y paladio. Se han realizado observaciones mediante el Microscopio Electrónico de Barrido (MEB para determinar la morfología superficial de las capas respectivas. Las caracterizaciones de la estructura y composición han sido realizadas mediante Difracción de Rayos X (DRX y espectroscopía de dispersión energética de rayos X (EDERX, con el fin de investigar la relación entre la estructura de las capas y los parámetros de los sensores respectivos. La influencia de los compuestos de cerio sobre las características eléctricas de los sensores de humedad obtenidos se ha evaluado mediante el análisis de impedancia eléctrica.

Confrontación entre un agrupamiento a priori de germoplasma de papa Solanum tuberosum subespecie andigena y un agrupamiento no jerárquico

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Bernal Ángela María

2006-12-01

Full Text Available

Con el fin de establecer patrones de similitud entre las accesiones para facilitar la identificación de cruzamientos potenciales, se realizó el agrupamiento a priori de la Colección Central Colombiana de papa subespecie andigena por características de color de piel y carne del tubérculo. La necesidad de incluir otras variables de tubérculo y realizar una clasificación basada en métodos estadísticos aumentó con el tiempo y con la evolución de las técnicas multivariadas de datos. En este trabajo se realizó el agrupamiento no jerárquico de la Colección, mediante un análisis de partición que utiliza el algoritmo de k-medias, luego de la caracterización morfológica de 435 accesiones sólo por características del tubérculo. Al comparar ambos agrupamientos se encontró la no correspondencia entre uno y otro, así como la necesidad de mejorar la objetividad en la caracterización de recursos genéticos. Las caracterizaciones tuvieron lugar en el Centro de Investigación Tibaitatá de la Corporación Colombiana de Investigación Agropecuaria (Corpoica, en   Mosquera (Cundinamarca, donde se conserva la Colección Central Colombiana de papa.

Pt, PtCo and PtNi electrocatalysts prepared with mechanical alloying for oxygen reduction reaction in alkaline medium; Electrocatalizadores de Pt, PtCo y PtNi preparados por aleado mecanico para la reaccion de reduccion de oxigeno en medio alcalino

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Garcia-Contreras, M.A.; Fernandez-Valverde, S.M. [Instituto Nacional de Investigaciones Nucleares, Ocoyoacac, Estado de Mexico (Mexico)]. E-mail: miguel.garcia@inin.gob.mx; Vargas-Garcia, J.R. [ESIQIE-IPN, Mexico D.F. (Mexico

2009-09-15

Pt, PtCo and PtNi electrocatalysts were prepared using mechanical alloying and their electrocatalytic activity was investigated for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) in KOH 0.5 M using cyclic voltametry and rotary disc electrode (RDE) techniques. The electrocatalysts were characterized using x-ray diffraction, sweep electron microscopy, dispersive x-ray transmission and chemical analysis. The physical characterization indicated that all the electrocatalysts are alloys formed by agglomerated particles composed of nanocrystals. The chemical analysis showed the presence of iron in the alloys. For the electrocatalytic evaluation, polarization curves and Koutecky-Levich and Tafel graphs were obtained to determine the kinetic parameters of the electrocatalysts in the study. With the same experimental conditions, the PtCo presented better electrocatalytic performance with a higher exchange current density. [Spanish] Se prepararon electrocatalizadores de Pt, PtCo y PtNi por aleado mecanico y se investigo su actividad electrocatalitica para la reaccion de reduccion de oxigeno (RRO) en KOH 0.5 M utilizando las tecnicas de Voltametria ciclica y Electrodo de Disco Rotatorio. Los electrocatalizadores se caracterizaron por difraccion de rayos X, Microscopia electronica de Barrido, de Transmision y analisis quimico por dispersion de rayos X. La caracterizacion fisica indico que todos los electrocatalizadores son aleaciones formadas de particulas aglomeradas, compuestas de nanocristales. El analisis quimico mostro la presencia de hierro en las aleaciones. Para la evaluacion electrocatalitica se obtuvieron curvas de polarizacion, graficas de Koutecky-Levich y de Tafel para determinar los parametros cineticos de los electrocatalizadores en estudio. En las mismas condiciones experimentales, el PtCo presento el mejor desempeno electrocatalitico con la densidad de corriente de intercambio mas alta.

Religious policy and secular education during the Second Republic | La política religiosa y la educación laica en la Segunda República

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Mónica Moreno Seco

2003-12-01

Full Text Available This article proposes a redefinition of certain concepts through the analysis of religious policy during the Second Republic. A number of highly controversial measures may be better understood by taking into account the Mediterranean context, pinpointing the various attitudes and positions, or examining more closely social perceptions regarding decisions made by Republican governments. In essence, a distinction needs to be drawn between secular and anticlerical policy, by studying the provisions adopted in religious affairs by the administrations of the first two-year period of the Second Republic. Most of these decisions are of a secular nature, avoiding simplistic descriptions containing terms such as sectarianism and antireligiousness. In short, this article aims to contribute towards an accurate assessment of the Republican period. | Este artículo propone una redefinición de algunos conceptos a partir del análisis de la política religiosa de la Segunda República. La contextualización del caso español en el entorno mediterráneo, la matización de posturas o el acercamiento a las percepciones sociales ante las decisiones de los gobernantes republicanos pueden ayudar a delimitar con precisión unas medidas rodeadas de gran polémica. Se plantea en esencia una distinción entre política laica y política anticlerical desde el estudio de las disposiciones adoptadas en materia religiosa por los gobernantes del primer bienio republicano. La mayor parte de dichas resoluciones se adscriben al ámbito del laicismo, huyendo de caracterizaciones simplistas que acuden a términos como sectarismo o antirreligiosidad. Con ello se persigue contribuir a un balance ajustado del periodo republicano.

Efecto del BiFeO3 en las propiedades del sistema ferroeléctrico libre de plomo K0.5Na0.5NbO3

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Pinza, Billy N.

2014-10-01

Full Text Available In order to obtain a multiferroic material, powders and ceramic pieces, of the lead-free ferroelectric (1-x-x K0.5Na0.5NbO3 (Bi0.8La0.2FeO3 (KNN-BLFO (x = 0.005, 0.010, 0.015, 0.020, 0.025 system were prepared using the combustion reaction method. For all the studied perovskite phase, stoichiometries feature KNN was obtained. Using characterisation techniques, it was determined that the BLFO is incorporated in the crystal structure of KNN without modifying present a phase transition. Moreover, It was also proved that the addition of the BLFO to KNN, alters the particle size of the obtained powders and generates magnetic behavior in this ferroelectric.En la búsqueda de un material multiferroico, se prepararon polvos y piezas cerámicas del sistema ferroeléctrico libre de plomo (1-xK0.5Na0.5NbO3-x(Bi0.8La0.2FeO3 (KNN-BLFO (x=0.005, 0.010, 0.015, 0.020, 0.025, mediante el método de reacción por combustión. Para todas las estequiometrias estudiadas se obtuvo la fase perovskita característica del KNN. Con las diferentes caracterizaciones se determinó que el BLFO se incorpora en la estructura cristalina del KNN modificándola sin que se presente una transición de fase. Se comprobó además que la adición del BLFO al KNN, altera el tamaño de partícula de los polvos obtenidos y genera comportamiento magnético en este ferroeléctrico.

A vision for regular, rapid assessments of the tropical northwestern Atlantic’s coral reefs

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Judith C Lang

2006-12-01

Full Text Available The Atlantic and Gulf Rapid Reef Assessment (AGRRA Program, consisting of non-fixed, transect- based visual surveys, provides "snapshot" characterizations of a number of structurally or functionally important benthic and fish indicators on tropical northwestern Atlantic (TNWA coral reefs and Brazil. To ameliorate the confounding factors inherent in multiyear temporal variation, a region-wide collaborative program for conducting rapid reef assessments at regular (five-year intervals in sites that are representative of each sub-region of the TNWA is proposed. Member institutions of the Association of Marine Laboratories of the Caribbean (AMLC and individual colleagues are invited to join in developing the vision. Rev. Biol. Trop. 54 (Suppl. 3: 23-29. Epub 2007 Jan. 15.El Programa de Evaluación Rápida del Atlántico y el Golfo (AGRRA, por sus siglas en inglés consiste en sondeos visuales no-fijos, basados en transectos, que permiten caracterizaciones puntuales de un número de peces y organismos bénticos que sean estructural o funcionalmente importantes como indicadores en arrecifes del Atlántico tropical noroeste (ATNO y de Brasil. Para disminuir los factores de confusión inherentes a variaciones temporales multianuales, se propone un programa de colaboración a nivel regional, que sirva para conducir evaluaciones rápidas de los arrecifes en intervalos regulares (cinco años, en los sitios que sean representativos de cada sub-región del ATNO. Se invita a las instituciones miembro de la Asociación de Laboratorios Marinos y del Caribe (ALMC, así cómo a colegas individuales para participar en el desarrollo de esta visión.

Colonizar los sentidos: ‘calls center’ y las nuevas formas de dominación/resistencia en las relaciones capital-trabajo

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María Belén Espoz

2010-12-01

Full Text Available El presente libro reúne desde una perspectiva transdisciplinaria, reflexiones sobre un fenómeno particular: las heterogéneas situaciones y múltiples lecturas sobre la problemática de los Call Centers en Argentina. Situados en el eje que expresa la conflictividad que tensa la relación capital-trabajo, esta compilación se establece como un punto de entrada posible, en tanto describe y analiza, a una problemática novedosa centrada en las caracterizaciones de esta actividad donde trabajo, comunicación y tecnología se triangulan modificando las dinámicas productivas anteriores. En este contexto, los diversos artículos describen nuevas tecnologías de disciplinamiento y control en el trabajo, como así también nuevas formas de resistencias –cuya mediación es la tecnología- ya sea, desde la perspectiva del sujeto-trabajador, o desde una visión estructural que coloca esta actividad en el entramado global de las relaciones de capital-trabajo. La compilación en su totalidad va combinando perspectivas que especifican la actividad en tanto fenómeno actual con características propias, con miradas críticas que sitúan el fenómeno como síntoma que expresa la metamorfosis actual del capitalismo: la expropiación energética alcanza los sentidos mismos –y las terminales nerviosas - de los trabajadores expresándose en las maneras de sentir-se un cuerpo. Fecha de recepción: 29 de octubre de 2010. Fecha de aceptación: 20 de noviembre de 2010.

Operational performance of the Avispa-IIE wind generator in microhybrid systems

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Gonzalez Galarza, Raul; Mejia Neri, Fortino [Instituto de Investigaciones Electricas, Cuernavaca (Mexico)

1997-12-31

The purpose of this paper is to make a general analysis over the operational performance of the Avispa-IIE wind generator in an Solar-Eolic hybrid installation, at an eco-tourist resort. This work was performed through the monitor of the wind generator and the system itself throughout a year, for the acquisition taking the variables of interest and operational parameters that might allow to characterize and to evaluate the general behavior of the system. Herein are the principals characteristics of the wind generator; its performance curve, the basic configuration of the installation and the control philosophy; Likewise, some technical and human problems which arise during the operation of the system are included, the implementation of improvements in the wind generator and the general results acquired during the time of operation of the wind generator in the cited installations. [Espanol] El proposito de este articulo es el hacer un analisis general del comportamiento operacional del aerogenerador Avispa-IIE en una instalacion hibrida Solar-Eolica en un lugar de veraneo eco-turistico. Este trabajo ha sido llevado a cabo mediante el monitor del aerogenerador y el sistema mismo por espacio de un ano, para la adquisicion de las variables de interes y de los parametros operacionales que pudieran servir para caracterizar y evaluar el comportamiento general del sistema. Aqui se incluyen las caracteristicas principales del aerogenerador; su curva de comportamiento, la configuracion basica de la instalacion y la filosofia del control. De la misma manera se incluyen algunos problemas tecnicos y humanos que se originan durante la operacion del sistema y la puesta en practica de las mejoras del aerogenerador y los resultados generales adquiridos durante el tiempo de operacion del aerogenerador en las instalaciones citadas.

25 years of monitoring the Waste Management Center of the Almirante Alvaro Alberto Nuclear Power Station

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ferreira, O.C; Barboza, E.; Cardoso, S.N.M.

2013-01-01

The goal of this paper is to present an assessment of 25 years of monitoring of the environment around the Waste Management Center (WMC) of the Almirante Alvaro Alberto Nuclear Power Station (AAANPS) since 1986 until 2011. The Environmental Monitoring Laboratory (EML) has, for purposes, to monitor the environment around the station to verify if there's a potential impact caused by the operation of the two units and to verify the dose rate levels around the waste deposits. The WMC is located in an area belonging to the AAANPS and receive solid waste of low and medium activities from Angra 1 NPP. The waste generated from Angra 2 NPP is stored inside the unit. The EML monitors the environment around the WMC to determine the environmental dose rate. The monitoring is made by direct measurement of the radiation using thermoluminescent dosimeters (TLD). Nowadays, the TLD are installed, at this time, in 6 points at the boundaries of WMC and are changed monthly. The locations of these points were already changed several times to allow the construction of new buildings. The constitution of the TLD are 4 crystals, being 3 crystals of Calcium Sulphate doped with Thulium (CaSO 4 :Tm) with 3 shields and 1 crystal of Lithium Borate doped with Copper (Li 2 B 4 O 7 :Cu) without shield. The results of the TLD measurements are normalized to a period of 30 days to compensate accidental statistical variations of the dose rates. The results, in these 25 years, show that the external area of the WMC is a supervised area, following the Norm CNEN-NN-3.01 - 'Diretrizes Basicas de Protecao Radiologica' - with access permitted only for authorized people. (author)

25 years of monitoring the Waste Management Center of the Almirante Alvaro Alberto Nuclear Power Station

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Ferreira, O.C; Barboza, E.; Cardoso, S.N.M., E-mail: landocf@eletronuclear.gov.br, E-mail: barboza@eletronuclear.gov.br, E-mail: sergion@eletronuclear.gov.br [Eletrobras Eletronuclear S.A (ELETONUCLEAR), Paraty, RJ (Brazil). Lab. de Monitoracao Ambiental

2013-07-01

The goal of this paper is to present an assessment of 25 years of monitoring of the environment around the Waste Management Center (WMC) of the Almirante Alvaro Alberto Nuclear Power Station (AAANPS) since 1986 until 2011. The Environmental Monitoring Laboratory (EML) has, for purposes, to monitor the environment around the station to verify if there's a potential impact caused by the operation of the two units and to verify the dose rate levels around the waste deposits. The WMC is located in an area belonging to the AAANPS and receive solid waste of low and medium activities from Angra 1 NPP. The waste generated from Angra 2 NPP is stored inside the unit. The EML monitors the environment around the WMC to determine the environmental dose rate. The monitoring is made by direct measurement of the radiation using thermoluminescent dosimeters (TLD). Nowadays, the TLD are installed, at this time, in 6 points at the boundaries of WMC and are changed monthly. The locations of these points were already changed several times to allow the construction of new buildings. The constitution of the TLD are 4 crystals, being 3 crystals of Calcium Sulphate doped with Thulium (CaSO{sub 4}:Tm) with 3 shields and 1 crystal of Lithium Borate doped with Copper (Li{sub 2}B{sub 4}O{sub 7}:Cu) without shield. The results of the TLD measurements are normalized to a period of 30 days to compensate accidental statistical variations of the dose rates. The results, in these 25 years, show that the external area of the WMC is a supervised area, following the Norm CNEN-NN-3.01 - 'Diretrizes Basicas de Protecao Radiologica' - with access permitted only for authorized people. (author)

Marcação individual de triatomíneos para estudos comportamentais e ecologicos Individual marking of tiratominea for behavioral and ecological studies

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José Roberto Mac Cord

1983-12-01

Full Text Available Idealizou-se uma técnica de marcação de insetos adultos, visando principalmente à identificação individual de triatomineos, que consiste na elaboração de códigos correspondentes a números, através de cinco cores basicas (vermelho, branco, azul, verde e amarelo representadas por pintas coloridas feitas com tinta esmalte e depositadas do pronoto ao escutelo do inseto manualmente, com um fino pincel de seda. As pintas não devem se estender às asas sobrepostas, porque estas mudam constantemente de posição, encobrindo assim a marcação. A tinta é indelével e, por não apresentar toxicidade, não afeta a longevidade e o comportamento dos insetos. A técnica pode ser utilizada tanto para insetos no laboratório quanto no campo principalmente em trabalhos relacionados à Ecologia e ao Comportamento.A technique for marking adult insects was worked out, aiming at the individual identification of triatomine bugs. It consists on the development of codes corresponding to numbers (units, tens and hundreds by means of five basic colours (red, white, blue, green and yellow, represented by colored spots hand-made with enamel paint from the pronotum to the scutellum of the insect, with a fine silk paint-brush. The spots should not reach the overlapped wings, for these often change position, therefore covering the marks. Being the paint indelible and nontoxic, the life-span and the behaviour of the bugs is not affected. The technique may be applied to insects in the laboratory as well as in the field, specially in studies related to Ecology and Behaviour.

Desarrollo de un instrumento para medir percepciones sobre el contexto de construccion del conocimiento cientifico de estudiantes universitarios de nuevo ingreso

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Garcia-Ramirez, Jaime Antonio

En esta investigacion, se desarrollo un instrumento que permite medir percepciones relacionadas al contexto de constriccion del conocimiento cientifico. Se examinaron instrumentos existentes y se encontro que el VOSTS (Views on science, technology, and society), instrumento desarrollado empiricamente en Canada por Aikenhead, Ryan y Fleming, podia traducirse y validarse en el contexto cultural puertorriqueno. El instrumento es extenso, consta de 113 reactivos, cada uno con una premisa basica relacionada a la tematica ciencia, tecnologia y sociedad y un numero de alternativas relacionadas a la premisa que oscila entre siete y trece. Se delimito su utilizacion a los quince reactivos identificados por los autores como relacionados a la construccion social del conocimiento cientifico. Metodologicamente, se procedio a utilizar el modelo de adaptacion intercultural, que permite que el instrumento desarrollado satisfaga las dimensiones de equivalencia semantica, de contenido, tecnica, de criterio y conceptual, atemperado asi al instrumento original. Se cumplio con este proposito mediante la traduccion de la version original en ingles al espanol y viceversa. Se utilizaron comites para examinar la traduccion y la retro-traduccion del instrumento. Se realizo una prueba piloto con estudiantes universitarios de nuevo ingreso, utilizando el instrumento traducido para asegurar su intelegibilidad. La confiabilidad del instrumento se determino mediante la intervencion de un panel de expertos quienes clasificaron las distintas posiciones dentro de cada reactivo en: realista, con merito e ingenua; se transformaron estas opciones en valores numericos lo que permitio establecer una escala Likert para cada una. Se suministro el instrumento a una muestra de estudiantes universitarios de nuevo ingreso con caracteristicas similares a las de la poblacion puertorriquena en cuanto a ejecucion en las pruebas de aptitud verbal y matematica del College Board. Los resultados de sus contestaciones

Operational performance of the Avispa-IIE wind generator in microhybrid systems

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Gonzalez Galarza, Raul; Mejia Neri, Fortino [Instituto de Investigaciones Electricas, Cuernavaca (Mexico)

1998-12-31

The purpose of this paper is to make a general analysis over the operational performance of the Avispa-IIE wind generator in an Solar-Eolic hybrid installation, at an eco-tourist resort. This work was performed through the monitor of the wind generator and the system itself throughout a year, for the acquisition taking the variables of interest and operational parameters that might allow to characterize and to evaluate the general behavior of the system. Herein are the principals characteristics of the wind generator; its performance curve, the basic configuration of the installation and the control philosophy; Likewise, some technical and human problems which arise during the operation of the system are included, the implementation of improvements in the wind generator and the general results acquired during the time of operation of the wind generator in the cited installations. [Espanol] El proposito de este articulo es el hacer un analisis general del comportamiento operacional del aerogenerador Avispa-IIE en una instalacion hibrida Solar-Eolica en un lugar de veraneo eco-turistico. Este trabajo ha sido llevado a cabo mediante el monitor del aerogenerador y el sistema mismo por espacio de un ano, para la adquisicion de las variables de interes y de los parametros operacionales que pudieran servir para caracterizar y evaluar el comportamiento general del sistema. Aqui se incluyen las caracteristicas principales del aerogenerador; su curva de comportamiento, la configuracion basica de la instalacion y la filosofia del control. De la misma manera se incluyen algunos problemas tecnicos y humanos que se originan durante la operacion del sistema y la puesta en practica de las mejoras del aerogenerador y los resultados generales adquiridos durante el tiempo de operacion del aerogenerador en las instalaciones citadas.

Retinal function in patients with the neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis phenotype

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Elizabeth Maria Aparecida Barasnevicius Quagliato

Full Text Available ABSTRACT Purpose: To analyze the clinical features, visual acuity, and full-field electroretinogram (ERG findings of 15 patients with the neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis (NCL phenotype and to establish the role of ERG testing in NCL diagnosis. Methods: The medical records of five patients with infantile NCL, five with Jansky-Bielschowsky disease, and five with juvenile NCL who underwent full-field ERG testing were retrospectively analyzed. Results: Progressive vision loss was the initial symptom in 66.7% of patients and was isolated or associated with ataxia, epilepsy, and neurodevelopmental involution. Epilepsy was present in 93.3% of patients, of whom 86.6% presented with neurodevelopmental involution. Fundus findings ranged from normal to pigmentary/atrophic abnormalities. Cone-rod, rod-cone, and both types of dysfunction were observed in six, one, and eight patients, respectively. Conclusion: In our study, all patients with the NCL phenotype had abnormal ERG findings, and the majority exhibited both cone-rod and rod-cone dysfunction. We conclude that ERG is a valuable tool for the characterization of visual dysfunction in patients with the NCL phenotype and is useful for diagnosis.

Phenotypic spectrum of autosomal recessive cone-rod dystrophies caused by mutations in the ABCA4 (ABCR) gene.

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Klevering, B Jeroen; Blankenagel, Anita; Maugeri, Alessandra; Cremers, Frans P M; Hoyng, Carel B; Rohrschneider, Klaus

2002-06-01

To describe the phenotype of 12 patients with autosomal recessive or isolated cone-rod types of progressive retinal degeneration (CRD) caused by mutations in the ABCA4 gene. The charts of patients who had originally received a diagnosis of isolated or autosomal recessive CRD were reviewed after molecular analysis revealed mutations in the ABCA4 gene. In two of the patients both the photopic and scotopic electroretinogram were nonrecordable. In the remainder, the photopic cone b-wave amplitudes appeared to be more seriously affected than the scotopic rod b-wave amplitudes. Although the clinical presentation was heterogeneous, all patients experienced visual loss early in life, impaired color vision, and a central scotoma. Fundoscopy revealed evidence of early-onset maculopathy, sometimes accompanied by involvement of the retinal periphery in the later stages of the disease. Mutations in the ABCA4 gene are the pathologic cause of the CRD-like dystrophy in these patients, and the resultant clinical pictures are complex and heterogeneous. Given this wide clinical spectrum of CRD-like phenotypes associated with ABCA4 mutations, detailed clinical subclassifications are difficult and may not be very useful.

Development of neural retina in retinopathy of prematurity

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Yi Luo

2015-10-01

Full Text Available Retinopathy of prematurity(ROPis an important cause of infant blindness and visual impairment in the world, of which main clinical characteristics are peripheral retinal vascular abnormalities, including large non-perfusion area and abnormal neovascularization. Numerous researches have demonstrated that ROP affects the differentiation and maturity of retinal photoreceptor cells, with more significantly effect on rods than cones, and later mostly caused ametropia, strabismus, amblyopia and a series of abnormal visual functions, the specific mechanism remains unclear. After treatments, even the retinal vascular proliferation lesions disappear itself, but the abnormal development of photoreceptor cells and the resulting visual dysfunction will persist. Currently the best evaluation mean of clinical assessment about retinal function is mainly visual electrophysiology, especially flash electroretinogram(f-ERG, which can reflect the whole retinal functional status before ganglion cells, has a unique significance for the evaluation of retinal photoreceptor cells function. In this review, we aims at the development of neural retina(mainly photoreceptor cellsand its related mechanisms, also the visual function changes appeared in the late period about ROP and its mechanisms, guiding us to pursuit better methods for treatment.

THE SIGNIFICANCE OF PATTERN ERG IN CENTRAL VEIN OCCLUSION

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Saša Novak

2004-12-01

Full Text Available Pattern electroretinogram (PERG findings were analysed in 30 patients with central retinal vein occlusion. Latency and amplitude values of PERG waves were compared with the results obtained in 30 healthy individuals after sample randomisation. In 15 cases with „hemorrhagic type” occlusion of the central retinal vein significantly reduced N1-P1 wave amplitude was noted (0,369 mV, related to „exudative“ disease type (0,557 mV, as well as to the control group of examines (0,782 mV. PERG was described as the sensitive method and important indicator in damage assessment, ie. ischemia in the ganglional cell layer in central retinal vein occlusion. Ischemia increases anoxia, which influences not only the axons but also the enzymatic and transport processes within the cell bodies, dendrites, axons and axonal terminals. Slowing down of the fast phase of axoplasmatic transport in the axons in ischemic damage blocked transmission impulses which could be evident through different degrees of PERG wave amplitude reduction. With this method the patients can be selected in whom due to severe retinal ischemia there is the risk of neovascular glaucomma and maculopathy, which is the absolute indication for panlaser-photocoagulation.

Modular Organization of Mechanisms of Achromatic Vision in Human and Animals

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Aleksander M. Chernorizov

2011-01-01

Full Text Available Psychophysiological research into achromatic vision in humans and vertebrates displays that light intensity is coded by a two-dimensional "excitation vector". The components of that vector are responses of brightness and darkness neurons (or, according to another classification, on- and o/f-neurons. It means that a current sensation of brightness is determined by a corresponding interrelation between activities of those two systems responding in opponent way to set. The present research is devoted to testing of a hypothesis asserting that two-module organization of achromatic vision is a universal principle of brightness coding in a wide raw of animals including invertebrates. The paper represents certain results of registration and analysis of electroretinogram and total activity of the optical nerve in snail Helix lucorum to diffuse light flashes of different intensities. The obtained experimental data, along with the already existing reference data, allow us to assume that on- and off-systems may constitute the neural basis for brightness coding in the invertebrates. The peculiarity of on- and o/f-systems in vertebrates is that they are formed already at the photoreceptor level.

[A case of ophthalmic artery occlusion following injection of hyaluronic acid into the glabellar area].

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Nonomura, Sakiko; Oshitari, Toshiyuki; Miura, Gen; Chiba, Akihiro; Yamamoto, Shuichi

2014-09-01

We report a case of unilateral blindness due to ophthalmic artery occlusion following injection of hyaluronic acid into the glabellar area for facial soft-tissue augmentation. A 20-year old woman underwent injection of hyaluronic acid into the glabellar area at an aesthetic plastic clinic. Immediately after injection, she suffered nausea, pain, paralysis of limbs and visual loss in her right eye. Hyaluronidase was instanly injected into the same place, but these symptoms did not improve. She was transferred to our hospital's emergency department. At the first examination, she had no light perception in the right eye and her right pupil was dilated. The fundus examination revealed right central artery occlusion. No significant findings were detected in her head. Eye ball massage, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, and drip infusion of urokinase were conducted, but no improvement resulted. Fluorescein and indocyanine green angiography showed no filling of the right retinal and choroidal arteries. Electroretinogram was completely disappeared. Magnetic resonance angiography could not reveal the obstruction point of the ophthalmic artery. Ophthalmic artery occlusion was believed to have occured after injection of hyaluronic acid into the glabellar area.

Perifoveal function in patients with North Carolina macular dystrophy: the importance of accounting for fixation locus.

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Seiple, William; Szlyk, Janet P; Paliga, Jennifer; Rabb, Maurice F

2006-04-01

To quantify the extent of visual function losses in patients with North Carolina Macular Dystrophy (NCMD) and to demonstrate the importance of accounting for eccentric fixation when making comparisons with normal data. Five patients with NCMD who were from a single family were examined. Multifocal electroretinograms (mfERGs) and psychophysical assessments of acuity and luminance visual field sensitivities were measured throughout the central retina. Comparisons of responses from equivalent retinal areas were accomplished by shifting normal templates to be centered at the locus of fixation for each patient. Losses of psychophysically measured visual function in patients with NCMD extend to areas adjacent to the locations of visible lesions. The multifocal ERG amplitude was reduced only within the area of visible lesion. Multifocal ERG implicit times were delayed throughout the entire central retinal area assessed. ERG timing is a sensitive assay of retinal function, and our results indicate that NCMD has a widespread effect at the level of the mid and outer retina. The findings also demonstrated that it is necessary to account for fixation locus and to ensure that equivalent retinal areas are compared when testing patients with macular disease who have eccentric fixation.

Cone pigments in a North American marsupial, the opossum (Didelphis virginiana).

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Jacobs, Gerald H; Williams, Gary A

2010-05-01

Only two of the four cone opsin gene families found in vertebrates are represented in contemporary eutherian and marsupial species. Recent genetic studies of two species of South American marsupial detected the presence of representatives from two of the classes of cone opsin genes and the structures of these genes predicted cone pigments with respective peaks in the ultraviolet and long-wavelength portions of the spectrum. The Virginia opossum (Didelphis virginiana), a profoundly nocturnal animal, is the only marsupial species found in North America. The prospects for cone-based vision in this species were examined through recordings of the electroretinogram (ERG), a commonly examined retinal response to photic stimulation. Recorded under flickering-light conditions that elicit signals from cone photoreceptors, the spectral sensitivity of the opossum eye is well accounted for by contributions from the presence of a single cone pigment having peak absorption at 561-562 nm. A series of additional experiments that employed various chromatic adaptation paradigms were conducted in a search for possible contributions from a second (short-wavelength sensitive) cone pigment. We found no evidence that such a mechanism contributes to the ERG in this marsupial.

Color vision abnormality as an initial presentation of the complete type of congenital stationary night blindness.

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Tan, Xue; Aoki, Aya; Yanagi, Yasuo

2013-01-01

Patients with the complete form of congenital stationary night blindness (CSNB) often have reduced visual acuity, myopia, impaired night vision, and sometimes nystagmus and strabismus, however, they seldom complain of color vision abnormality. A 17-year-old male who was at technical school showed abnormalities in the color perception test for employment, and was referred to our hospital for a detailed examination. He had no family history of color vision deficiency and no other symptoms. During the initial examination, his best-corrected visual acuity was 1.2 in both eyes. His fundus showed no abnormalities except for somewhat yellowish reflex in the fovea of both eyes. Electroretinogram (ERG) showed a good response in cone ERG and 30 Hz flicker ERG, however, the bright flash, mixed rod and cone ERG showed a negative type with a reduced b-wave (positive deflection). There was no response in the rod ERG, either. From the findings of the typical ERG, the patient was diagnosed with complete congenital stationary night blindness. This case underscores the importance of ERG in order to diagnose the cause of a color vision anomaly.

Evaluation of the macula prior to cataract surgery.

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McKeague, Marta; Sharma, Priya; Ho, Allen C

2018-01-01

To describe recent evidence regarding methods of evaluation of retinal structure and function prior to cataract surgery. Studies in patients with cataract but no clinically detectable retinal disease have shown that routine use of optical coherence tomography (OCT) prior to cataract surgery can detect subtle macular disease, which may alter the course of treatment or lead to modification of consent. The routine use of OCT has been especially useful in patients being considered for advanced-technology intraocular lenses (IOLs) as subtle macular disease can be a contraindication to the use of these lenses. The cost-effectiveness of routine use of OCT prior to cataract surgery has not been studied. Other technologies that assess retinal function rather than structure, such as microperimetry and electroretinogram (ERG) need further study to determine whether they can predict retinal potential in cataract patients. There is growing evidence for the importance of more detailed retinal evaluation of cataract patients even with clinically normal exam. OCT has been the most established and studied method for retinal evaluation in cataract patients, but other technologies such as microperimetry and ERG are beginning to be studied.

Intraocular gene transfer of ciliary neurotrophic factor rescues photoreceptor degeneration in RCS rats.

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Huang, Shun-Ping; Lin, Po-Kang; Liu, Jorn-Hon; Khor, Chin-Ni; Lee, Yih-Jing

2004-01-01

Ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) is known as an important factor in the regulation of retinal cell growth. We used both recombinant CNTF and an adenovirus carrying the CNTF gene to regulate retinal photoreceptor expression in a retinal degenerative animal, Royal College of Surgeons (RCS) rats. Cells in the outer nuclear layer of the retinae from recombinant-CNTF-treated, adenoviral-CNTF-treated, saline-operated, and contralateral untreated preparations were examined for those exhibiting CNTF photoreceptor protective effects. Cell apoptosis in the outer nuclear layer of the retinae was also detected. It was found that CNTF had a potent effect on delaying the photoreceptor degeneration process in RCS rats. Furthermore, adenovirus CNTF gene transfer was proven to be better at rescuing photoreceptors than that when using recombinant CNTF, since adenoviral CNTF prolonged the photoreceptor protection effect. The function of the photoreceptors was also examined by taking electroretinograms of different animals. Adenoviral-CNTF-treated eyes showed better retinal function than did the contralateral control eyes. This study indicates that adenoviral CNTF effectively rescues degenerating photoreceptors in RCS rats. Copyright 2004 National Science Council, ROC and S. Karger AG, Basel

Metabolomics of the aqueous humor in the rat glaucoma model induced by a series of intracamerular sodium hyaluronate injection.

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Mayordomo-Febrer, A; López-Murcia, M; Morales-Tatay, J M; Monleón-Salvado, D; Pinazo-Durán, M D

2015-02-01

Glaucoma models are helpful to study disease characteristics and to design new therapeutic options. Metabolomic profiling approach have been used to elucidating the molecular characteristics of the aqueous humor. Juvenile male Wistar rats experimental (n = 15) and controls (n = 6) were used for these studies. Experimental rats received weekly intracamerular injection of 25 µl of sodium hyaluronate in the left eye and sterile saline solution in the right eye, consecutively for ten weeks. Rats were subjected to anterior/posterior eye segment examinations, intraocular pressure (IOP), and flash electroretinograms (ERG). The aqueous humor was collected at endpoints and analyzed by Nuclear Magnetic Resonance. Elevated IOP and significant reduction of a, b waves and amplitude of oscillatory potential was observed in the left eyes compared to control eyes. The aqueous humor metabolomic profile from control and the experimental eyes were compared. Concentrations of metabolites (amino acids, lipids and carbohydrates) significantly changed after the sodium hyaluronate injections series, compared to the sham-operated eyes. Metabolic changes in the hypertensive eyes correlated with the impaired retinal function. Observed metabolomic changes in aqueous humor in hypertensive state may play a significant role in glaucoma pathogenesis. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Dopaminergic expression of the Parkinsonian gene LRRK2-G2019S leads to non-autonomous visual neurodegeneration, accelerated by increased neural demands for energy

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Hindle, Samantha; Afsari, Farinaz; Stark, Meg; Middleton, C. Adam; Evans, Gareth J.O.; Sweeney, Sean T.; Elliott, Christopher J.H.

2013-01-01

Parkinson's disease (PD) is associated with loss of dopaminergic signalling, and affects not just movement, but also vision. As both mammalian and fly visual systems contain dopaminergic neurons, we investigated the effect of LRRK2 mutations (the most common cause of inherited PD) on Drosophila electroretinograms (ERGs). We reveal progressive loss of photoreceptor function in flies expressing LRRK2-G2019S in dopaminergic neurons. The photoreceptors showed elevated autophagy, apoptosis and mitochondrial disorganization. Head sections confirmed extensive neurodegeneration throughout the visual system, including regions not directly innervated by dopaminergic neurons. Other PD-related mutations did not affect photoreceptor function, and no loss of vision was seen with kinase-dead transgenics. Manipulations of the level of Drosophila dLRRK suggest G2019S is acting as a gain-of-function, rather than dominant negative mutation. Increasing activity of the visual system, or of just the dopaminergic neurons, accelerated the G2019S-induced deterioration of vision. The fly visual system provides an excellent, tractable model of a non-autonomous deficit reminiscent of that seen in PD, and suggests that increased energy demand may contribute to the mechanism by which LRRK2-G2019S causes neurodegeneration. PMID:23396536

Non-linear behaviour of power density and exposure time of argon laser on ocular tissues

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

El-Sayed, E M; Talaat, M S; Salem, E F [Physics Department, Faculty of Science, Ain Shams University, Cairo (Egypt)

1997-12-31

In ophthalmology, the thermal effect of argon laser is the most widely used category of laser- tissue interaction. The rise in tissue temperature has to exceed a threshold value for photo coagulation of retinal blood vessels. This value mainly depends on the laser. The most suitable argon laser power P and exposure time (t) which would be more effective for thermal and electrical behaviour of chicken eye was studied. This was achieved by measuring the variations in ocular temperature in electroretinogram (ERG) records under the effect of argon experiment, while power density (P) and exposure time (t) were varied in four different ways for each dose (pt). Results indicated that for the same laser dose, the temperature distribution of the eye, using low power density and high exposure time was higher than that high power density and low exposure time, indicating non-linearity of the laser dose. This finding was confirmed by ERG records which showed similar variations in b-wave latency, amplitude and duration, for the laser exposure conditions. This indicates variations in retinal function due to laser-dependent temperature variations. 5 figs., 3 tabs.

Cone responses in Usher syndrome types 1 and 2 by microvolt electroretinography.

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Zein, Wadih M; Falsini, Benedetto; Tsilou, Ekaterina T; Turriff, Amy E; Schultz, Julie M; Friedman, Thomas B; Brewer, Carmen C; Zalewski, Christopher K; King, Kelly A; Muskett, Julie A; Rehman, Atteeq U; Morell, Robert J; Griffith, Andrew J; Sieving, Paul A

2014-11-25

Progressive decline of psychophysical cone-mediated measures has been reported in type 1 (USH1) and type 2 (USH2) Usher syndrome. Conventional cone electroretinogram (ERG) responses in USH demonstrate poor signal-to-noise ratio. We evaluated cone signals in USH1 and USH2 by recording microvolt level cycle-by-cycle (CxC) ERG. Responses of molecularly genotyped USH1 (n = 18) and USH2 (n = 24) subjects (age range, 15-69 years) were compared with those of controls (n = 12). A subset of USH1 (n = 9) and USH2 (n = 9) subjects was examined two to four times over 2 to 8 years. Photopic CxC ERG and conventional 30-Hz flicker ERG were recorded on the same visits. Usher syndrome subjects showed considerable cone flicker ERG amplitude losses and timing phase delays (P Usher subjects showed abnormal ERG response latency, but this changed less than amplitude with time. In USH syndrome, CxC ERG is more sensitive than conventional ERG and warrants consideration as an outcome measure in USH treatment trials. Copyright 2014 The Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc.

Pathophysiology of visual disorders induced by phosphodiesterase inhibitors in the treatment of erectile dysfunction

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Moschos MM

2016-10-01

Full Text Available Marilita M Moschos, Eirini Nitoda 1st Department of Ophthalmology, Medical School, National & Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece Aim: The aim of this review was to summarize the ocular action of the most common phosphodiesterase (PDE inhibitors used for the treatment of erectile dysfunction and the subsequent visual disorders.Method: This is a literature review of several important articles focusing on the pathophysiology of visual disorders induced by PDE inhibitors.Results: PDE inhibitors have been associated with ocular side effects, including changes in color vision and light perception, blurred vision, transient alterations in electroretinogram (ERG, conjunctival hyperemia, ocular pain, and photophobia. Sildenafil and tadalafil may induce reversible increase in intraocular pressure and be involved in the development of nonarteritic ischemic optic neuropathy. Reversible idiopathic serous macular detachment, central serous chorioretinopathy, and ERG disturbances have been related to the significant impact of sildenafil and tadalafil on retinal perfusion.Discussion: So far, PDE inhibitors do not seem to cause permanent toxic effects on chorioretinal tissue and photoreceptors. However, physicians should write down any visual symptom observed during PDE treatment and refer the patients to ophthalmologists. Keywords: erectile dysfunction, pathophysiological mechanisms, phosphodiesterase inhibitors, PDE5, visual disorders

A clinical case study of a Wolfram syndrome-affected family: pattern-reversal visual evoked potentials and electroretinography analysis.

Science.gov (United States)

Langwińska-Wośko, Ewa; Broniek-Kowalik, Karina; Szulborski, Kamil

2012-04-01

Wolfram syndrome (WFS), or DIDMOAD, is a rare (1/100 000 to 1/770 000), progressive neurodegenerative disorder. In its early stages, it is characterized by insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus, optic atrophy and loss of sensorineural hearing-this is followed by diabetes insipidus, progressive neurological abnormalities and other endocrine abnormalities, which occur in later years. The aim of this study was to report on the clinical and electrophysiological findings from a family with the WFS1 mutation. The five family members were subjected to a complete ophthalmic examination, which included a flash full-field electroretinogram and pattern-reversal visual evoked potentials (PVEPs) performed according to ISCEV standards. Optic atrophy was confirmed in two homozygotic patients, where P100 latencies were significantly delayed-up to 146 ms in PVEP. P100 latencies were normal in the three heterozygotic patients we examined. Curve morphology abnormalities were observed in all five patients we examined. No literature describing the morphology of PVEP in Wolfram syndrome patients was found. In flash electroretinography, scotopic and photopic responses appeared in normal morphology and value. Diabetic retinopathy was not observed in the diabetes mellitus patients.

A CTRP5 gene S163R mutation knock-in mouse model for late-onset retinal degeneration.

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Chavali, Venkata R M; Khan, Naheed W; Cukras, Catherine A; Bartsch, Dirk-Uwe; Jablonski, Monica M; Ayyagari, Radha

2011-05-15

Late-onset retinal macular degeneration (L-ORD) is an autosomal dominant inherited disorder caused by a single missense mutation (S163R) in the CTRP5/C1QTNF5 protein. Early phenotypic features of L-ORD include: dark adaptation abnormalities, nyctalopia, and drusen deposits in the peripheral macular region. Apart from posterior segment abnormalities, these patients also develop abnormally long anterior lens zonules. In the sixth decade of life the rod and cone function declines, accompanied by electroretinogram (ERG) abnormalities. Some patients also develop choroidal neovascularization and glaucoma. In order to understand the disease pathology and mechanisms involved in retinal dystrophy, we generated a knock-in (Ctrp5(+/-)) mouse model carrying the disease-associated mutation in the mouse Ctrp5/C1QTNF5 gene. These mice develop slower rod-b wave recovery consistent with early dark adaptation abnormalities, accumulation of hyperautofluorescence spots, retinal pigment epithelium abnormalities, drusen, Bruch's membrane abnormalities, loss of photoreceptors, and retinal vascular leakage. The Ctrp5(+/-) mice, which have most of the pathological features of age-related macular degeneration, are unique and may serve as a valuable model both to understand the molecular pathology of late-onset retinal degeneration and to evaluate therapies.

Head-down posture in glaucoma suspects induces changes in IOP, systemic pressure and PERG that predict future loss of optic nerve tissue

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Porciatti, Vittorio; Feuer, William J.; Monsalve, Pedro; Triolo, Giacinto; Vazquez, Luis; McSoley, John; Ventura, Lori M.

2017-01-01

Purpose To obtain pilot data on posture-induced changes of IOP, systemic pressure and pattern electroretinogram (PERG) predictive of future optic nerve tissue loss glaucoma suspects (GS). Methods Mean peripapillary retinal fiber layer thickness (RNFLT) was measured with OCT two times/year in 28 GS aged 58 ± 8.9 years over 5.0 ± 0.73 years. All patients had a baseline PERG, IOP and brachial blood pressure measurements in the seated and – 10 degrees head-down-body-tilt position (HDT). Outcome measures were seated/HDT PERG amplitude and phase, IOP, mean arterial blood pressure (MAP), and estimated ocular perfusion pressure (OPP). An additional group of 11 similarly-aged controls (SAC) aged 56.9 ± 13 years was tested for comparison. Results While all GS had initial RNFLT in the normal range, 9/28 of them developed significant (P blood pressure, together with their changes upon HDT, may have predictive value for future loss of optic nerve tissue in GS. This study supports the rationale for a full-scale clinical trial to identify patients at high-risk of development of glaucoma. PMID:28263259

Mef2d is essential for the maturation and integrity of retinal photoreceptor and bipolar cells.

Science.gov (United States)

Omori, Yoshihiro; Kitamura, Tamiki; Yoshida, Satoyo; Kuwahara, Ryusuke; Chaya, Taro; Irie, Shoichi; Furukawa, Takahisa

2015-05-01

Mef2 transcription factors play a crucial role in cardiac and skeletal muscle differentiation. We found that Mef2d is highly expressed in the mouse retina and its loss causes photoreceptor degeneration similar to that observed in human retinitis pigmentosa patients. Electroretinograms (ERGs) were severely impaired in Mef2d-/- mice. Immunohistochemistry showed that photoreceptor and bipolar cell synapse protein levels severely decreased in the Mef2d-/- retina. Expression profiling by microarray analysis showed that Mef2d is required for the expression of various genes in photoreceptor and bipolar cells, including cone arrestin, Guca1b, Pde6h and Cacna1s, which encode outer segment and synapse proteins. We also observed that Mef2d synergistically activates the cone arrestin (Arr3) promoter with Crx, suggesting that functional cooperation between Mef2d and Crx is important for photoreceptor cell gene regulation. Taken together, our results show that Mef2d is essential for photoreceptor and bipolar cell gene expression, either independently or cooperatively with Crx. © 2015 Institution for Protein Research. Genes to Cells published by Wiley Publishing Asia Pty Ltd and the Molecular Biology Society of Japan.

Major accidents involving dangerous chemicals and Standard Basic Self-Protection; Accidentes graves en los que intervangan sustancias quimica peligrosas y Norma Basica de Autoproteccion

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Alonso Fernandez, L.

2011-07-01

Nuclear and radioactive facilities and other centers, institutions and agencies engaged in activities that may lead to emergency situations, are subject to specific regulations directed to take measures to prevent and control risks at source and to act initially in emergency situations and limit the consequences, in order to protect people, property and the environment. With these premise, place the following article, which summarizes the basic guidelines in the field of major accident and self-protection, summarizing the implications of current legislation in this field. (Author)

Concepcion de la Educacion Basica en Algunos Paises. Series Divulgaciones No. 1 (The Notion of Basic Education in Several Countries. Information Series No. 1).

Science.gov (United States)

Enriquez, Galo, Ed.

This booklet defines and considers basic education and reports on the concept as it is implemented and developed in Argentina, Colombia, Chile, Spain, and Peru. Basic education, as defined here, generally refers to the education of children between the ages of 7 and 16 years. Initial remarks define the issue and discuss general principles. The…

Characterization of AMC commercial bricks with different alumina qualities; Caracterizacion de ladrillos comerciales AMC con diferentes calidades de alumina

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Muñoz, V.; Camerucci, Maria A.; Martinez, A.G. Tomba [Instituto de Investigaciones en Ciencia y Tecnologia de Materiales (INTEMA), CONICET - Fac. de Ingenieria (UNMdP), Mar del Plata (Argentina)

2011-07-01

The study of commercial bricks Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}-MgO-C (AMC) has some advantages over the analysis of materials prepared in the laboratory, but requires a complete characterization. This paper presents the results of the characterization of commercial bricks AMC with different types of alumina aggregates used in ladles floor. The same is done by several complementary techniques: XRD, DTA / TGA, EPR, volume density and apparent porosity, dilatometric analysis, microstructural analysis by low magnification and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) coupled with analysis Energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) and determination of mechanical properties at room temperature (Young's modulus, stress and strain at fracture). The main characteristics and differences in the composition and microstructure, essential data for further analysis of the mechanical behavior and resistance to slag attack of these refractories, are determined. (author)

Electrical characterization of a laminar manganese oxide type birnessite; Caracterizacion electrica de un oxido de manganeso laminar tipo birnesita

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Arias, N. P.; Becerra, M. E.; Giraldo, O., E-mail: ohgiraldoo@unal.edu.co [Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Sede Manizales, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Laboratorio de Materiales Nanoestructurados y Funcionales, Carrera 27 No. 64-60, 170004 Manizales (Colombia)

2015-07-01

This paper records the characterization of a manganese oxide synthesized by solid state routes which is analogous to natural mineral called birnessite. The analysis of X-ray diffraction and average oxidation state of manganese show that the material has a lamellar structure containing manganese in oxidation states (+4) and (+3). The results of electron microscopy along with surface area and pore size measurements reveal the presence of micro and meso pores in the material. Impedance spectroscopy suggests that high frequency electrical conduction occurs in the volume and on the border of the aggregates; in contrast, ionic conductivity at low frequencies was associated with potassium ions located in the interlaminar region. Ac conductivity values at low frequencies were 1.599 x 10{sup -6} Ω{sup -1} cm{sup -1} and 6.416 x 10{sup -5} Ω{sup -1} cm{sup -1} at high frequencies. These values are associated with an increased probability of electron jumping as frequency increases. These findings contribute to the understanding of electrical conduction processes and provides important information about its potential applications. As a result, this research will prove relevant in the field of batteries, super capacitors and heterogeneous catalysis, among others. (Author)

Applications of the Raman spectroscopy in the materials characterization; Aplicaciones de la espectroscopia Raman en la caracterizacion de materiales

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Jimenez S, S. (ed.) [IPN, Centro de Investigacion y de Estudios Avanzados, Unidad Queretaro, Libramiento Norponiente No. 2000, Fracc. Real de Juriquilla, 76230 Queretaro (Mexico); Escobar A, L. (ed.) [ININ, Carretera Mexico-Toluca s/n, 52750 Ocoyoacac, Estado de Mexico (Mexico); Camacho L, M. A. (ed.) [Universidad Autonoma del Estado de Mexico, Instituto Literario No. 100, Col. Centro, 50000 Toluca, Estado de Mexico (Mexico)

2011-07-01

The study field of the science and technology of surfaces and materials have been of primordial importance in the last years due to the impact that they have the knowledge that it generates in diverse areas. For this reason, the Mexican Society of Science and Technology of Surfaces and Materials has focused a good part of their investigation activities toward the materials science and technology development. Inside the investigation fields carried out by members of this Society, are the following: semiconductors, thin films, hard coatings, deposit techniques, plasmas, biomaterials, Ab-initio calculations, characterization techniques, photo-thermal properties, solar cells, nano science, magnetism, superconductivity and related topics. Among the techniques used for this purpose is the Raman Spectroscopy (Rs), which has demonstrated to be a powerful and versatile tool in the materials study. In the last three congresses that the Society has organized, an average of 42 works related with this topic have been presented, what gave the rule to prepare this book whose objective is on one hand diffusing part of the works that carry out different groups integrated with members of the Society that use the Rs like an important tool in its investigation work. A second objective is that it can serve like support to the students that begin to be involved, or that they are already involved, in topics where the Rs can have a decisive paper in the development of its projects. It is also expected that some of the topics included in the book are of utility for professors and researches that already uses the Rs, or that it can be of help for those who are beginning in this technique as alternative or like complementary analysis tool. (Author)

Clinicoepidemiologic characterization and endoscopy in patients with colorectal cancer; Caracterizacion clinico-epidemiologica y endoscopica en pacientes con cancer colorrectal

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Hano Garcia, Olga Marina; Wood Rodriguez, Lisette; Villa Jimenez, Oscar Manuel, E-mail: olga.hano@infomed.sld.c [Instituto Nacional de Gastroenterologia, La Habana (Cuba)

2010-07-01

Colorectal carcinoma is recognized as the second death cause from cancer in most of developed countries; the increasing exposure to risk factor such as smoking, changes in diet, in lifestyles, as well as environmental and infectious factors is conductive to its morbidity and mortality increase. A prospective and descriptive study was conducted in 65 patients older than 18 years seen from April, 2007 to April, 2008 in the Endoscopy Service of the National Institute of Gastroenterology, diagnosed with colorectal carcinoma by colonoscopy and histology. In collection form were registered: sex, age, personal backgrounds of colon cancer, polyps, intestinal inflammatory disease and cholecystectomy; family backgrounds of colon cancer or another location; toxic habits: smoking and alcoholism; diet as regards: vegetal fiber ingestion and animal fat; anatomic location of cancer and histology. We conclude that there was predominance of female sex, the more frequent diagnosis age was between 60 and 70 years. The personal background of colon polyp and the family background of colon cancer were the more frequent. There was also predominance of smokers and heavy drinkers with or without effect. There was a great ingestion of animal fat and few ingestion of vegetal fiber. The more frequent anatomical location was the rectosygmoid, where the histological colon adenocarcinoma had the greater frequency

Chemical characterisation of zircon-cadmium sulfoselenide ceramic pigments; Caracterizacion quimica de pigmentos ceramicos a base de sulfoseleniuro de cadmio

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Gazulla Barreda, M. F.; Rodrigo Edo, M.; Blasco Roca, E.; Orduna Cordero, M.

2013-07-01

The present paper addresses the development of a methodology that allows the complete chemical characterisation of zircon cadmium sulfoselenide ceramic pigments including minor and major elements. To develop the methodology, five zircon-cadmium sulfoselenide pigments with different hues were selected, studying the different measurement process steps, from sample preparation to the optimisation of the measurement of the different components of the pigments by spectroscopic techniques (WD-XRF and elemental analysis by combustion and IR detection). The chemical characterisation method developed was validated with synthetic standards prepared from the mixture of certified reference materials and pure oxides because no certified referenced materials of this type of pigments were commercially available. The developed method can be used for a complete chemical characterization of zircon-cadmium sulfoselenide ceramic pigments with a very low uncertainty for all the elements analysed. (Author)

Dosimetric characterization of computerized tomography of 64 channels; Sobre la caracterizacion dosimetrica de un tomografo computarizado de 64 cortes

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Gimeno-Fernandez, V.; Sotil-Baylos, J.; Garcia-Pazos, M.; Garcia-Pena, P.

2006-07-01

As a first step in the evaluation of effective dose to patients in Computed Tomography (CT) examinations, the purpose of this work was the assessment of the dose delivered by a new multislice scanner of 64 channels (Philips Brilliance 64c). This was done through the measurement of the CT Dose Index free in air, normalized to the unit of applied charge, using different beam collimations and tube voltages. Fitting nonlinear models to the observed data, kilo voltage and over beaming (penumbra) parameters have been elicited. The kilo voltage exponent of the relationship between CT dose index and kilo voltage varies from 2,84 to 2,88. The obtained penumbra with was 2,04 nm. Finally, corrections factors that must be applied to the measured dose indexes as a function of the applied collimation have been established from the estimated analytical relationships. (Author)

Characterization and morphology of solids suspended in rain water; Caracterizacion y morfologia de solidos suspendidos en agua de lluvia

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Iturbe G, J.L.; Lopez M, B.E.; Torre O, J. De la [Instituto Nacional de Investigaciones Nucleares, A.P. 18-1027, Mexico D.F. (Mexico)

2000-07-01

This work presents the results obtained from the analysis of rain water in Mexico. The study treats over the characterization and morphology of the solids suspended in form of particles in the atmosphere. The solids suspended were obtained of the pluvial precipitations after these have been centrifuged. Subsequently of the separation, the particulate matter was analysed by Sem and X-ray dispersive energy.

Hydrogeological characterization of the Nador Plio-Quaternary aquifer, Tipaza (Algeria); Caracterizacion hidrogeologica del acuifero pliocuaternario de Nador, Tipaza (Argelia)

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Bouderbala, A.; Remini, B.; Pulido-Bosch, A.

2014-06-01

This paper focuses on the hydrogeological and hydrochemical knowledge of the Nador Plio-Quaternary aquifer in Tipaza, situated along the Algerian coastline. It includes the identification of the hydrodynamic aquifer, hydrogeological and piezometric characteristics and, finally, an overview of the hydro-geochemistry of the area. We carried out this study between 2008 and 2013, with piezometric and hydrochemical monitoring of 24 wells in the study area. The physicochemical analysis of water shows that 25 % of the wells in the coastal zone have values of electrical conductivity greater than 3000 μS/cm The Mg{sup 2}+/Ca{sup 2}+ ratio is also higher than one and there are sodium chloride facies due to the mix of freshwater with seawater exceeding 10 % in some places. However, the comparison of the salinity of the groundwater during the period 2008-2013 with 1988-2004 indicates that there is a low dilution due to the reduction of pumping in the aquifer after the construction of the Boukourdane dam. There has also been a more rainy period and a possible return flow from irrigation in the area. (Author)

INFLUENCIA DE LOS ÓRGANOS REPRODUCTORES SOBRE LA FERTILIDAD EN VAQUILLONAS MESTIZAS INSEMINADAS A TIEMPO FIJO

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Gustavo Adolfo Hidalgo Bravo

2012-12-01

Full Text Available El propósito de esta investigación fue evaluar el peso corporal y las influencias de las diferentes caracterizaciones del tracto reproductivo de vaquillonas y su relación con la tasa de preñez en programas de inseminación artificial en tiempo fijo (IATF. Las vaquillonas (n=38 utilizadas fueron cruza mestizas, condición corporal de 3 a 4 (Escala 1 al 5 de 20 a 30 meses de edad, las que tenían un peso corporal de 320 a 400 kg. El día pre sincronización todas las vaquillonas fueron examinadas por ecógrafo transrectal Aquila Vet 7.5 MHz, donde se determinó el diámetro uterino (cm, área ovárica (cm², área de estructuras ováricas (cm². Día cero se colocó dispositivo intravaginal 0.5 mg progesterona, conjunto con una inyección intramuscular de 1 mg de Benzoato Estradiol; día 8 retiro del dispositivo más administración intramuscular de 500 µg de D (+ Cloprostenol; día 9 aplicación intramuscular de 0.75 mg de benzoato estradiol. Inseminando 54-57 h de retirado el dispositivo intravaginal. Se diagnosticó gestación 60 días post IATF. No se registraron diferencias significativas (P>0.05, entre peso corporal, útero, ovario izquierdo, y estructuras ováricas, solo encontrándose diferencias significativas en el ovario derecho. Se concluye que el área del ovario derecho influye positivamente sobre la tasa de preñez, en cuanto al mejor umbral en pronóstico de la preñez para seleccionar una vaquillona mestiza en función del ovario derecho el estándar 4.80 cm², es el apropiado.

Anaerobic/aerobic treatment for the waste water from the Instituto de Investigaciones Electricas installations; Tratamiento anaerobio-aerobio de las aguas residuales de las instalaciones del IIE

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Arvizu Fernandez, Jose Luis [Instituto de Investigaciones Electricas, Cuernavaca (Mexico)

1996-12-31

The waste water treatment plant of the Instituto de Investigaciones Electricas (IIE) is analyzed. This plant originally was a plant of the activated sludge type (aerobic development), process that consumes large amounts of energy and that produces residual sludge 5 or 6 times greater than the anaerobic processes. The methodology and the techniques utilized were base in the analysis of the existing plant introducing an anaerobic treatment and performing laboratory experimentation. The plant design parameters considered are described. The results show the benefits of treating by anaerobic means the waste waters since depuration are obtained on the order of 75%, as well as the reduction of resulting residual sludge and in energy consumption. A reduction of 60% to 70% can be attained if a combination of anaerobic and aerobic processes is utilized [Espanol] Se analiza la planta de tratamiento de aguas residuales del Instituto de Investigaciones Electricas (IIE). Esta planta era originalmente una planta de lodos activados (desarrollo aerobio), proceso que consume mucha energia y genera lodos residuales de 5 a 6 veces mas que los procesos anaerobios. La metodologia y las tecnicas utilizadas se basaron en el analisis de la planta de tratamiento existente en el IIE; en la caracterizacion residual del IIE; en la modificacion de la planta de tratamiento introduciendo un tratamiento anaerobio y efectuando experimentacion en laboratorio. Se describen los parametros de diseno de la planta considerados. Los resultados muestran los beneficios de tratar por medios anaerobios las aguas residuales ya que se obtienen depuraciones del orden del 75%, asi como la reduccion de lodos residuales resultantes y el consumo de energia, pueden reducirse de un 60% a un 70% si se utiliza la combinacion de los procesos anaerobios y aerobios

Physicochemical and microbiological characterization of Apis mellifera sp. honey from Southwest of Antioquia in Colombia Caracterización físico-química y microbiológica de la miel de Apis mellifera sp. del Suroeste de Antioquia, Colombia

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

A V Velásquez Giraldo

2013-11-01

Full Text Available Characterizations of Apis mellifera honey produced in Southwest of Antioquia, an important coffee region of Colombia, have not been published in recent years. In the present work, seven samples of honey collected in the mentioned region, were physically (refractive index, specific rotation, density, chemically (moisture content, water activity, pH, free acidity, carbohydrates and microbiologically (Clostridium, fungi and yeast analyzed. The results show that the analyzed honeys meet both national (Resolución 1057 of 2010 and International (Codex-Stan 12 of 1981 standards for moisture content, free acidity, sucrose content and microbiological parameters, indicating their good quality. Fructose/glucose ratio, pH and specific rotation values indicate that the samples are blossom honeys.Caracterizaciones de miel de Apis mellifera producida en el Suroeste de Antioquia, una región cafetera de Colombia, no se han publicado recientemente. En el presente trabajo, siete muestras de miel recolectadas en la región mencionada, fueron físicamente (índice de refracción, rotación específica, densidad, químicamente (contenido de humedad, actividad acuosa, pH, acidez libre, carbohidratos, y microbiológicamente (Clostridium, hongos y levaduras analizadas. Los resultados muestran que las mieles analizadas cumplen tanto los estándares nacionales (Resolución 1057 de 2010 como internacionales (Codex-Stan 12 de 1981 para contenido de humedad, acidez libre, contenido de sacarosa y los parámetros microbiológicos, indicando su buena calidad. Los valores de relación fructosa/glucosa, pH y rotación específica indican que las muestras son mieles florales.

Manejo agronómico de los Vertisoles en México: una revisión

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Carlos Alberto Torres Guerrero

2016-10-01

Full Text Available Los Vertisoles ocupan el 8.3% del territorio nacional y se consideran los suelos más productivos del país. A pesar de ello, las investigaciones sobre su manejo agronómico han sido llevadas a cabo sólo en algunas localidades del país o en campos experimentales que impide la transferencia de tecnología. Varios esfuerzos se han realizado por generar información en este tipo de suelos desde 1985, sobre todo en el Altiplano Mexicano y en la zona costera del Golfo de México donde son dominantes y presentan serios problemas de degradación; sin embargo, también son comunes en otras regiones de México en las cuales se cuenta con escasa información. El objetivo de esta investigación fue realizar una revisión bibliográfica acerca del manejo agronómico de Vertisoles en México y las modificaciones que sufren sus propiedades físicas y químicas. El análisis de la información indica que los Vertisoles presentan problemas de manejo en cuatro aspectos principales: a mecanización; b compactación, c drenaje y d fertilización. No obstante su complejidad, las caracterizaciones de sus propiedades edáficas se han realizado sólo con algunas determinaciones físicas o químicas. El entendimiento de los procesos de formación puede ayudar a generar prácticas agronómicas adecuadas para cada zona agroclimática y disminuir los problemas de degradación física (compactación y química (declinación de la fertilidad que se están presentando en nuestro país.

Anaerobic/aerobic treatment for the waste water from the Instituto de Investigaciones Electricas installations; Tratamiento anaerobio-aerobio de las aguas residuales de las instalaciones del IIE

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Arvizu Fernandez, Jose Luis [Instituto de Investigaciones Electricas, Cuernavaca (Mexico)

1997-12-31

The waste water treatment plant of the Instituto de Investigaciones Electricas (IIE) is analyzed. This plant originally was a plant of the activated sludge type (aerobic development), process that consumes large amounts of energy and that produces residual sludge 5 or 6 times greater than the anaerobic processes. The methodology and the techniques utilized were base in the analysis of the existing plant introducing an anaerobic treatment and performing laboratory experimentation. The plant design parameters considered are described. The results show the benefits of treating by anaerobic means the waste waters since depuration are obtained on the order of 75%, as well as the reduction of resulting residual sludge and in energy consumption. A reduction of 60% to 70% can be attained if a combination of anaerobic and aerobic processes is utilized [Espanol] Se analiza la planta de tratamiento de aguas residuales del Instituto de Investigaciones Electricas (IIE). Esta planta era originalmente una planta de lodos activados (desarrollo aerobio), proceso que consume mucha energia y genera lodos residuales de 5 a 6 veces mas que los procesos anaerobios. La metodologia y las tecnicas utilizadas se basaron en el analisis de la planta de tratamiento existente en el IIE; en la caracterizacion residual del IIE; en la modificacion de la planta de tratamiento introduciendo un tratamiento anaerobio y efectuando experimentacion en laboratorio. Se describen los parametros de diseno de la planta considerados. Los resultados muestran los beneficios de tratar por medios anaerobios las aguas residuales ya que se obtienen depuraciones del orden del 75%, asi como la reduccion de lodos residuales resultantes y el consumo de energia, pueden reducirse de un 60% a un 70% si se utiliza la combinacion de los procesos anaerobios y aerobios

A new method of damage determination in geothermal wells from geothermal inflow with application to Los Humeros, Mexico

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Aragon, A [Instituto de Investigaciones Electricas, Cuernavaca, Morelos (Mexico); Moya, S. L [Centro Nacional de Investigacion y Desarrollo Tecnologico, Cuernavaca, Morelos (Mexico); Garcia-Gutierrez, A; Arellano, V [Instituto de Investigaciones Electricas, Cuernavaca, Morelos (Mexico)

2008-10-15

Geothermal inflow type curves were obtained for different values of well damage (i.e., inflow performance relationships). The method was evaluated by diagnosing the damage of thirteen producing wells in the Los Humeros, Puebla, Mexico geothermal field. Permeability determinations were carried out for these wells and their productivity indices were estimated. Comparison of the diagnoses made via damage effects against the results of field pressure tests showed that the maximum difference between both approaches is on the order of 0.7 damage units. The methodology allows reservoir characterization along its productive life, since several production tests are carried out while the reservoir is producing. The data obtained from production tests are used to determine the damage effect and permeability of the rock formation. Previously the damage (skin factor) could only be determined from the analyses of transient pressure tests. [Spanish] Se presenta la obtencion de curvas-tipo de influjo geotermico para diferentes valores de dano, y se demuestra su aplicacion en los analisis de produccion de pozos geotermicos determinando el dano en trece pozos del campo geotermico de Los Humeros, Puebla, Mexico. Tambien se hicieron determinaciones de la permeabilidad en las zonas de produccion de estos pozos y de sus respectivos indices de productividad. Se compararon los resultados del valor de dano obtenido con la metodologia propuesta, con los valores de dano obtenidos a partir de pruebas de presion, encontrando que las diferencias maximas entre ambas tecnicas es del orden de 0.7 unidades de dano. La presente metodologia permite la caracterizacion del yacimiento a lo largo de su vida productiva a partir de las mediciones de las pruebas de produccion efectuadas en los pozos. La metodologia propuesta es innovadora porque anteriormente el dano solamente se podia determinar a partir de los analisis de las mediciones de la pruebas de presion.

Electrochemical behavior of synthesized Al{sub x}Sn{sub y} with mechanical grinding in hydrogen evolution reaction (HER); Comportamiento electroquimico del Al{sub x}Sn{sub y} sintetizado por molienda mecanica en la REH (Reaccion de Evolucion de Hidrogeno)

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Olvera Vazquez, S. L.; Arce Estrada, E. M. [Instituto Politecnico Nacional, Mexico, D.F. (Mexico )]. E-mail: seydyliz@hotmail.com

2009-09-15

Currently, the best catalyst for HER is Pt, nevertheless because of its high costs, many studies have been performed with a variety of materials, including AI, which is a promising source of hydrogen. Therefore, this work studied the effect of tin on Al{sub x}Sn{sub y} alloys obtained by mechanical grinding. The materials obtained were characterized with electron sweep microscopy, x-ray diffraction and electrochemical techniques. It was determined that the synthesized materials have a micrometer size and present at least two phases. The electrochemical characterization for use as electrocatalysts for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) was performed in an NaCl 2 M solution using potentiodynamic polarization and chronoamperometry techniques, showing that the materials with low tin contents have better electrocatalytic activity for HER. [Spanish] Actualmente el mejor catalizador para la REH es el Pt, sin embargo debido a sus altos costos se han realizado numerosos estudios con diversos materiales entre los cuales se encuentra el Al, que es una promisoria fuente de hidrogeno. Por tal motivo en este trabajo se realizaron estudios del efecto que presenta el contenido de estano en aleaciones Al{sub x}Sn{sub y} obtenidas por molienda mecanica. Los materiales obtenidos se caracterizaron por microscopia electronica de barrido, difraccion de rayos X y tecnicas electroquimicas. Se determino que los materiales sintetizados son de tamano micrometrico y que al menos presentan dos fases. La caracterizacion electroquimica para su uso como electrocatalizadores para la reaccion de evolucion de hidrogeno, REH, se llevo a cabo en una solucion de NaCl 2 M, empleando las tecnicas de polarizacion potenciodinamica y cronoamperometria, observandose que los materiales con contenidos bajos de estano presentan una mejor actividad electrocatalitica para la REH.

¿También un arte ‘macro-levantino’? El arquero de grandes dimensiones de Val del Charco del Agua Amarga (Alcañiz, Teruel

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Bea, Manuel

2013-06-01

Full Text Available The digital image analysis carried out in the rock art shelter of Val del Charco (Alcañiz, Teruel, has allowed us to identify an extraordinary large depiction of an archer. This motive can be considered as a real exception because of its large dimensions (130 cm high estimated, in addition to its classification into the so-called Centelles stylistic horizon. The motive is located in the central-upper part of the decorated panel, something that highlights its dominant position, emphasizing the visibility of the figure in the surroundings. The singular aspect of this representation could also point out the aggregation character of the rock art shelter, already underlined in other studies. Therefore, this motive appears as a unique case in the Levantine rock art panorama. In any case, all these particulars do not invalid the distinctive definitions of the Centelles stylistic horizon, appearing as a complement to them.El análisis mediante tratamiento digital de la imagen de una serie de restos pictóricos en el abrigo de Val del Charco nos permite identificar la figura de un gran arquero levantino. Son excepcionales sus extraordinarias dimensiones (130 cm de altura estimada, así como su clasificación dentro del denominado Horizonte Centelles. Su ubicación central y elevada en el abrigo subraya su posición dominante acentuando la visibilidad del motivo también desde el entorno inmediato. El carácter singular de esta representación podría igualmente abundar en la consideración del abrigo como un centro de agregación. La definición de este motivo aparece como un caso único en el panorama del arte levantino que complementa las caracterizaciones aportadas para el horizonte estilístico Centelles sin invalidarlas en modo alguno.

NUEVO MODELO DIDACTICO CURRICULAR PARA LA ENSEÑANZA DE LA CIENCIA, BASADO EN LA ACUICULTURA DESTINADA A ENSEÑANZA BASICA Y MEDIA, EN ESTABLECIMIENTOS COSTEROS

OpenAIRE

Toledo Muñoz, Héctor Eladio

2013-01-01

El Proyecto “Nuevo modelo didáctico curricular para la enseñanza de la ciencia, basado en la acuicultura destinada a la Enseñanza Básica y Media en establecimientos costeros”. Se desarrolló durante el periodo 2007 – 2010, con la participación de colegios contrapartes y experimentales de la Región de Los Lagos, con un espectro socio-educacional del área particular, particular subvencionada y municipalizada. La metodología utilizada consistió básicamente en el desarrollo de talleres, en el c...

Basic Directive on the Planning of Civil Defence in response to Radiological Risk; La Directriz Basica de Planificacion de Proteccion Civil ante el Riesgo Radiologico

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Calvin Cuartero, M.; Vega Riber, R. de la

2012-11-01

The approval of this directive completes the basic set of standards governing nuclear and radiological emergencies applicable in Spain, in the implementation of which the Nuclear Safety Council plays a role defined in the Action Plan. (Author) 14 refs.

The Role of Fundus Autofluorescence in Late-Onset Retinitis Pigmentosa (LORP) Diagnosis

Science.gov (United States)

Lee, Tamara J.; Hwang, John C.; Chen, Royce W. S.; Lima, Luiz H.; Wang, Nan-Kai; Tosi, Joaquin; Freund, K. Bailey; Yannuzzi, Lawrence A.; Tsang, Stephen H.

2015-01-01

Purpose To demonstrate the utility and characteristics of fundus autofluorescence in late-onset retinitis pigmentosa. Methods Observational case series. Patients diagnosed with late-onset retinitis pigmentosa were identified retrospectively in an institutional setting. Twelve eyes of six patients were identified and medical records were reviewed. Results All patients presented with slowly progressive peripheral field loss and initial clinical examination revealed only subtle retinal changes. There was a notable lack of intraretinal pigment migration in all patients. Five out of six patients underwent magnetic resonance imaging of the brain to rule out intracranial processes and all were referred from another ophthalmologist for further evaluation. Fundus autofluorescence was ultimately employed in all patients and revealed more extensive retinal pathology than initially appreciated on clinical examination. Fundus autofluorescence directed the workup toward a retinal etiology in all cases and led to the eventual diagnosis of late-onset retinitis pigmentosa through electroretinogram testing. Conclusion Fundus autofluorescence may be a more sensitive marker for retinal pathology than stereo fundus biomicroscopy alone in late-onset retinitis pigmentosa. Early use of fundus autofluorescence imaging in the evaluation of patients with subtle retinal lesions and complaints of peripheral field loss may be an effective strategy for timely and cost-efficient diagnosis. PMID:23899229

Linezolid induced retinopathy.

Science.gov (United States)

Park, Dae Hyun; Park, Tae Kwann; Ohn, Young-Hoon; Park, Jong Sook; Chang, Jee Ho

2015-12-01

While optic neuropathy is a well-known cause of visual disturbances in linezolid-treated patients, the possibility of linezolid-related retinopathy has not been investigated. Here, we report a case of retinopathy demonstrated by multifocal electroretinogram (mfERG) in a linezolid-treated patient. A 61-year-old man with extensively drug-resistant pulmonary tuberculosis treated with linezolid for 5 months presented with painless loss of vision in both eyes. The patient's best corrected visual acuity was 20/50 in the right eye and 20/100 in the left eye. Fundus examination revealed mild disc edema, and color vision was defective in both eyes. Humphrey visual field tests showed a superotemporal field defect in the right eye and central and pericentral field defect in the left eye. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) revealed only mild optic disc swelling. In mfERG, central amplitudes were depressed in both eyes. Four months after the cessation of linezolid, visual acuity was restored to 20/20 right eye and 20/25 left eye. The color vision and visual field had improved. The OCT and mfEFG findings improved as well. Although the clinical features were similar to linezolid-induced optic neuropathy, the mfERG findings suggest the possibility of a retinopathy through cone dysfunction.

Visual function in patients with cone-rod dystrophy (CRD) associated with mutations in the ABCA4(ABCR) gene.

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Birch, D G; Peters, A Y; Locke, K L; Spencer, R; Megarity, C F; Travis, G H

2001-12-01

Mutations in the ABCA4(ABCR) gene cause autosomal recessive Stargardt disease (STGD). ABCR mutations were identified in patients with cone-rod dystrophy (CRD) and retinitis pigmentosa (RP) by direct sequencing of all 50 exons in 40 patients. Of 10 patients with RP, one contained two ABCR mutations suggesting a compound heterozygote. This patient had a characteristic fundus appearance with attenuated vessels, pale disks and bone-spicule pigmentation. Rod electroretinograms (ERGs) were non-detectable, cone ERGs were greatly reduced in amplitude and delayed in implicit time, and visual fields were constricted to 10 degrees diameter. Eleven of 30 (37%) patients with CRD had mutations in ABCR. In general, these patients showed reduced but detectable rod ERG responses, reduced and delayed cone responses, and poor visual acuity. Rod photoresponses to high intensity flashes were of reduced maximum amplitude but showed normal values for the gain of phototransduction. Most CRD patients with mutations in ABCR showed delayed recovery of sensitivity (dark adaptation) following exposure to bright light. Pupils were also significantly smaller in these patients compared to controls at 30 min following light exposure, consistent with a persistent 'equivalent light' background due to the accumulation of a tentatively identified 'noisy' photoproduct. Copyright 2001 Academic Press.

Ocular toxicity of beta-blockers and benzalkonium chloride in pigmented rabbits: electrophysiological and morphological studies.

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Chou, A; Hori, S; Takase, M

1985-01-01

Subconjunctival injection of 0.2 ml of the following solutions was carried out once a day for two weeks in the albino and pigmented rabbit: commercial 0.5% timolol or 1% befunolol ophthalmic solutions, both containing benzalkonium chloride, and also these drug solutions containing no preservative, ophthalmic base solutions containing benzalkonium chloride, physiological saline solution or phosphate buffer solution. One week after daily injections of the commercial drug solutions or base solutions with benzalkonium chloride, the electroretinogram (ERG) showed a marked reduction in the a- and b-wave amplitudes in the pigmented rabbit, but the ERG changes were slight in the albino rabbit. After two weeks of injections, histological studies of the pigmented rabbit eyes revealed retinal detachment, visual cell loss and atrophy of the retinal pigment epithelium and choroid; the changes in the albino rabbit eyes were minimal. Injections of the beta-blockers containing no benzalkonium resulted in no significant changes in the ERG or in the tissue structures of all rabbits. Injections of only physiological saline or phosphate buffer had no deleterious effects. Therefore, the ocular toxicity of the beta-blockers was thought to be minor and the toxic effects seen in this study were thought to be due to benzalkonium chloride, which possibly accumulates in the ocular pigments.

Retinal pigmentary changes in chronic uveitis mimicking retinitis pigmentosa.

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Sevgi, D Damla; Davoudi, Samaneh; Comander, Jason; Sobrin, Lucia

2017-09-01

To present retinal pigmentary changes mimicking retinitis pigmentosa (RP) as a finding of advanced uveitis. We retrospectively reviewed charts of patients without a family history of inherited retinal degenerations who presented with retinal pigment changes and signs of past or present intraocular inflammation. Comprehensive eye examination including best-corrected visual acuity, slit-lamp examination and dilated fundus examination was performed on all patients in addition to color fundus photography, optical coherence tomography, fluorescein angiography (FA), and full-field electroretinogram testing. We identified five patients with ages ranging from 33 to 66 years, who presented with RP-like retinal pigmentary changes which were eventually attributed to longstanding uveitis. The changes were bilateral in three cases and unilateral in two cases. Four of five cases presented with active inflammation, and the remaining case showed evidence of active intraocular inflammation during follow-up. This study highlights the overlapping features of advanced uveitis and RP including the extensive pigmentary changes. Careful review of possible past uveitis history, detailed examination of signs of past or present inflammation and ancillary testing, with FA often being most helpful, are required for the correct diagnosis. This is important, because intervention can prevent further damage if the cause of the pigmentary changes is destructive inflammation.

Amyloid precursor protein is required for normal function of the rod and cone pathways in the mouse retina.

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Tracy Ho

Full Text Available Amyloid precursor protein (APP is a transmembrane glycoprotein frequently studied for its role in Alzheimer's disease. Our recent study in APP knockout (KO mice identified an important role for APP in modulating normal neuronal development in the retina. However the role APP plays in the adult retina and whether it is required for vision is unknown. In this study we evaluated the role of APP in retinal function and morphology comparing adult wildtype (WT and APP-KO mice. APP was expressed on neuronal cells of the inner retina, including horizontal, cone bipolar, amacrine and ganglion cells in WT mice. The function of the retina was assessed using the electroretinogram and although the rod photoreceptor responses were similar in APP-KO and WT mice, the post-photoreceptor, inner retinal responses of both the rod and cone pathways were reduced in APP-KO mice. These changes in inner retinal function did not translate to a substantial change in visual acuity as assessed using the optokinetic response or to changes in the gross cellular structure of the retina. These findings indicate that APP is not required for basic visual function, but that it is involved in modulating inner retinal circuitry.

Effects of maternal inhalation of gasoline evaporative ...

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In order to assess potential health effects resulting from exposure to ethanol-gasoline blend vapors, we previously conducted neurophysiological assessment of sensory function following gestational exposure to 100% ethanol vapor (Herr et al., Toxicologist, 2012). For comparison purposes, the current study investigated the same measures after gestational exposure to 100% gasoline evaporative condensates (GVC). Pregnant Long-Evans rats were exposed to 0, 3K, 6K, or 9K ppm GVC vapors for 6.5 h/day over GD9 – GD20. Sensory evaluations of male offspring began around PND106. Peripheral nerve function (compound action potentials, NCV), somatosensory (cortical and cerebellar evoked potentials), auditory (brainstem auditory evoked responses), and visual evoked responses were assessed. Visual function assessment included pattern elicited visual evoked potentials (VEP), VEP contrast sensitivity, and electroretinograms (ERG) recorded from dark-adapted (scotopic) and light-adapted (photopic) flashes, and UV and green flicker. Although some minor statistical differences were indicated for auditory and somatosensory responses, these changes were not consistently dose- or stimulus intensity-related. Scotopic ERGs had a statistically significant dose-related decrease in the b-wave implicit time. All other parameters of ERGs and VEPs were unaffected by treatment. All physiological responses showed changes related to stimulus intensity, and provided an estimate of detectable le

Deletion of the Thyroid Hormone-Activating Type 2 Deiodinase Rescues Cone Photoreceptor Degeneration but Not Deafness in Mice Lacking Type 3 Deiodinase.

Science.gov (United States)

Ng, Lily; Liu, Hong; St Germain, Donald L; Hernandez, Arturo; Forrest, Douglas

2017-06-01

Type 2 deiodinase amplifies and type 3 deiodinase depletes levels of the active form of thyroid hormone, triiodothyronine. Given the opposing activities of these enzymes, we tested the hypothesis that they counteract each other's developmental functions by investigating whether deletion of type 2 deiodinase (encoded by Dio2) modifies sensory phenotypes in type 3 deiodinase-deficient (Dio3-/-) mice. Dio3-/- mice display degeneration of retinal cones, the photoreceptors that mediate daylight and color vision. In Dio2-/- mice, cone function was largely normal but deletion of Dio2 in Dio3-/- mice markedly recovered cone numbers and electroretinogram responses, suggesting counterbalancing roles for both enzymes in cone survival. Both Dio3-/- and Dio2-/- strains exhibit deafness with cochlear abnormalities. In Dio3-/-;Dio2-/- mice, deafness was exacerbated rather than alleviated, suggesting unevenly balanced actions by these enzymes during auditory development. Dio3-/- mice also exhibit an atrophic thyroid gland, low thyroxine, and high triiodothyronine levels, but this phenotype was ameliorated in Dio3-/-;Dio2-/- mice, indicating counterbalancing roles for the enzymes in determining the thyroid hormone status. The results suggest that the composite action of these two enzymes is a critical determinant in visual and auditory development and in setting the systemic thyroid hormone status.

Rubber-like poly(vinyl alcohol) gel

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Nambu, Masao (Nippon Oil Co. Ltd., Yokohama (Japan). Central Technical Research Lab.)

1990-09-01

Anomalous poly (vinyl alcohol) gel has been found in our laboratory since 1980. The gel is prepared by repeated freezing (or freeze-dehydration) of aqueous poly (vinyl alcohol). Experiments establish the fact that anomalous gel is never produced in the course of freezing, but during sustained thawing the gelation does occur. Moreover, it was found that the softening point of the gel increases at 37degC. It is assumed that crystal nuclei are generated on freezing, then on thawing, some of them grow to very fine crystals which act as polymer network-knots (cross-linking). Additional freezing provide other seeds, which grow similarly, and these are accumulated until rubber-like gel is produced. The gel was always water-resistant at 37degC, and the potassium permanganate consumption of the extracted water layer remained far below the official restricted value for medical materials. The gel can be sterilized with gamma-rays or chlorhexidine. Moreover, it satisfies the official standards of acute toxicity, pyrogen, intracutaneous reaction, hemolyzation, and intracorporeal implantation, respectively. Applications to adhesion-preventing membrane (for joint or pericardium), tamponade (for jaw defects), electrode (for electroretinogram or artificial inner ear), artificial denture base and phantoms for magnetic resonance imaging were examined. (author) 54 refs.

Melatonin: An Underappreciated Player in Retinal Physiology and Pathophysiology

Science.gov (United States)

Tosini, Gianluca; Baba, Kenkichi; Hwang, Christopher K.; Iuvone, P. Michael

2012-01-01

In the vertebrate retina, melatonin is synthesized by the photoreceptors with high levels of melatonin at night and lower levels during the day. Melatonin exerts its influence by interacting with a family of G-protein-coupled receptors that are negatively coupled with adenylyl cyclase. Melatonin receptors belonging to the subtypes MT1 and MT2 have been identified in the mammalian retina. MT1 and MT2 receptors are found in all layers of the neural retina and in the retinal pigmented epithelium. Melatonin in the eye is believed to be involved in the modulation of many important retinal functions; it can modulate the electroretinogram (ERG), and administration of exogenous melatonin increases light-induced photoreceptor degeneration. Melatonin may also have protective effects on retinal pigment epithelial cells, photoreceptors and ganglion cells. A series of studies have implicated melatonin in the pathogenesis of age-related macular degeneration, and melatonin administration may represent a useful approach to prevent and treat glaucoma. Melatonin is used by millions of people around the world to retard aging, improve sleep performance, mitigate jet lag symptoms, and treat depression. Administration of exogenous melatonin at night may also be beneficial for ocular health, but additional investigation is needed to establish its potential. PMID:22960156

Advance in ERG Analysis: From Peak Time and Amplitude to Frequency, Power, and Energy

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Mathieu Gauvin

2014-01-01

Full Text Available Purpose. To compare time domain (TD: peak time and amplitude analysis of the human photopic electroretinogram (ERG with measures obtained in the frequency domain (Fourier analysis: FA and in the time-frequency domain (continuous (CWT and discrete (DWT wavelet transforms. Methods. Normal ERGs n=40 were analyzed using traditional peak time and amplitude measurements of the a- and b-waves in the TD and descriptors extracted from FA, CWT, and DWT. Selected descriptors were also compared in their ability to monitor the long-term consequences of disease process. Results. Each method extracted relevant information but had distinct limitations (i.e., temporal and frequency resolutions. The DWT offered the best compromise by allowing us to extract more relevant descriptors of the ERG signal at the cost of lesser temporal and frequency resolutions. Follow-ups of disease progression were more prolonged with the DWT (max 29 years compared to 13 with TD. Conclusions. Standardized time domain analysis of retinal function should be complemented with advanced DWT descriptors of the ERG. This method should allow more sensitive/specific quantifications of ERG responses, facilitate follow-up of disease progression, and identify diagnostically significant changes of ERG waveforms that are not resolved when the analysis is only limited to time domain measurements.

Assessing the Contribution of the Oscillatory Potentials to the Genesis of the Photopic ERG with the Discrete Wavelet Transform.

Science.gov (United States)

Gauvin, Mathieu; Dorfman, Allison L; Trang, Nataly; Gauthier, Mercedes; Little, John M; Lina, Jean-Marc; Lachapelle, Pierre

2016-01-01

The electroretinogram (ERG) is composed of slow (i.e., a-, b-waves) and fast (i.e., oscillatory potentials: OPs) components. OPs have been shown to be preferably affected in some diseases (such as diabetic retinopathy), while the a- and b-waves remain relatively intact. The purpose of this study was to determine the contribution of OPs to the building of the ERG and to examine whether a signal mostly composed of OPs could also exist. DWT analyses were performed on photopic ERGs (flash intensities: -2.23 to 2.64 log cd·s·m -2 in 21 steps) obtained from normal subjects ( n = 40) and patients ( n = 21) affected with a retinopathy. In controls, the %OP value (i.e., OPs energy/ERG energy) is stimulus- and amplitude-independent (range: 56.6-61.6%; CV = 6.3%). In contrast, the %OPs measured from the ERGs of our patients varied significantly more (range: 35.4%-89.2%; p pathology, some presenting with ERGs that are almost solely composed of OPs. In conclusion, patients may present with a wide range of %OP values. Findings herein also support the hypothesis that, in certain conditions, the photopic ERG can be mostly composed of high-frequency components.

Assessing the Contribution of the Oscillatory Potentials to the Genesis of the Photopic ERG with the Discrete Wavelet Transform

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Mathieu Gauvin

2016-01-01

Full Text Available The electroretinogram (ERG is composed of slow (i.e., a-, b-waves and fast (i.e., oscillatory potentials: OPs components. OPs have been shown to be preferably affected in some diseases (such as diabetic retinopathy, while the a- and b-waves remain relatively intact. The purpose of this study was to determine the contribution of OPs to the building of the ERG and to examine whether a signal mostly composed of OPs could also exist. DWT analyses were performed on photopic ERGs (flash intensities: −2.23 to 2.64 log cd·s·m−2 in 21 steps obtained from normal subjects (n=40 and patients (n=21 affected with a retinopathy. In controls, the %OP value (i.e., OPs energy/ERG energy is stimulus- and amplitude-independent (range: 56.6–61.6%; CV = 6.3%. In contrast, the %OPs measured from the ERGs of our patients varied significantly more (range: 35.4%–89.2%; p<0.05 depending on the pathology, some presenting with ERGs that are almost solely composed of OPs. In conclusion, patients may present with a wide range of %OP values. Findings herein also support the hypothesis that, in certain conditions, the photopic ERG can be mostly composed of high-frequency components.

Ionotropic GABA Receptors and Distal Retinal ON and OFF Responses

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E. Popova

2014-01-01

Full Text Available In the vertebrate retina, visual signals are segregated into parallel ON and OFF pathways, which provide information for light increments and decrements. The segregation is first evident at the level of the ON and OFF bipolar cells in distal retina. The activity of large populations of ON and OFF bipolar cells is reflected in the b- and d-waves of the diffuse electroretinogram (ERG. The role of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA, acting through ionotropic GABA receptors in shaping the ON and OFF responses in distal retina, is a matter of debate. This review summarized current knowledge about the types of the GABAergic neurons and ionotropic GABA receptors in the retina as well as the effects of GABA and specific GABAA and GABAC receptor antagonists on the activity of the ON and OFF bipolar cells in both nonmammalian and mammalian retina. Special emphasis is put on the effects on b- and d-waves of the ERG as a useful tool for assessment of the overall function of distal retinal ON and OFF channels. The role of GABAergic system in establishing the ON-OFF asymmetry concerning the time course and absolute and relative sensitivity of the ERG responses under different conditions of light adaptation in amphibian retina is also discussed.

Clinical outcomes of double staining and additional ILM peeling during ERM surgery.

Science.gov (United States)

Oh, Ha Na; Lee, Joo Eun; Kim, Hyun Woong; Yun, Il Han

2013-08-01

To assess the clinical outcomes in idiopathic epiretinal membrane (ERM) patients after vitrectomy and ERM removal with or without additional indocyanine green (ICG)-assisted internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling. The medical records of 43 patients with an idiopathic ERM that underwent vitrectomy and ERM removal between July 2007 and April 2010 were reviewed. The patients were divided into two groups: triamcinolone-assisted simple ERM peeling only (group A, n = 23) and triamcinolone-assisted ERM peeling followed by ICG staining and peeling of the remaining internal ILM (group B, n = 20). No difference was found between the two groups in terms of visual acuity, macular thickness, P1 amplitude or implicit time on multifocal-electroretinogram (mfERG) at six and 12 months postoperatively. In group B, ICG staining after ERM peeling demonstrated that the ILM had been removed together with the ERM in 12 eyes (60%), and all 12 eyes showed punctate retinal hemorrhages during ERM peeling. There was no recurrence of an ERM in either group. Additional procedures involving ICG staining and ILM peeling during ERM surgery do not appear to have an additive effect on the clinical outcomes in terms of visual acuity, retinal function based on mfERG, or recurrence rate.

Joubert syndrome: Clinical and radiological characteristics of nine patients

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Ahmed Farag Elhassanien

2013-01-01

Full Text Available Background: Joubert Syndrome (JS is a rare genetic developmental disorder, first identified in 1969. In patients with JS, certain regions of the brain (mainly cerebellar vermis and brainstem are underdeveloped or malformed. This can lead to impaired attention, visual, spatial, motor, language and social functional skills. JS is characterized by a host of features, many of which do not occur in every patient. Aim of the Study: To spotlight and increase awareness of clinical profile and neuroimaging findings of children with Joubert syndrome. Methods: This is a retrospective case series study of patients with JS who attended the Pediatric Neurology Clinic in Aladan and Alfarawanya Hospitals in Kuwait, from September 2007 to September 2012. Clinical and radiological data were obtained from the patient medical records. Results: Cerebellar vermis hypoplasia/aplasia and apnea were present in all patients, polydactly in 3 of 16, renal problems with cysts in 5 patients and 11 of 16 had abnormal electroretinograms (ERGs. Blood investigations of organic acids, amino acids and very-long-chain fatty acid, were normal in the all the nine patients. Conclusion: JS is a rare genetic brain malformation with association of retinal dystrophy and renal abnormalities. The retinal dystrophy may be progressive. The prognosis of patients depends mainly on the degree of brain malformation.

Electropysiologic evaluation of the visual pathway in patients with multiple sclerosis.

Science.gov (United States)

Rodriguez-Mena, Diego; Almarcegui, Carmen; Dolz, Isabel; Herrero, Raquel; Bambo, Maria P; Fernandez, Javier; Pablo, Luis E; Garcia-Martin, Elena

2013-08-01

To evaluate the ability of visual evoked potentials and pattern electroretinograms (PERG) to detect subclinical axonal damage in patients during the early diagnostic stage of multiple sclerosis (MS). The authors also compared the ability of optical coherence tomography (OCT), PERG, and visual evoked potentials to detect axonal loss in MS patients and correlated the functional and structural properties of the retinal nerve fiber layer. Two hundred twenty-eight eyes of 114 subjects (57 MS patients and 57 age- and sex-matched healthy controls) were included. The visual pathway was evaluated based on functional and structural assessments. All patients underwent a complete ophthalmic examination that included assessment of visual acuity, ocular motility, intraocular pressure, visual field, papillary morphology, OCT, visual evoked potentials, and PERG. Visual evoked potentials (P100 latency and amplitude), PERG (N95 amplitude and N95/P50 ratio), and OCT parameters differed significantly between MS patients and healthy subjects. Moderate significant correlations were found between visual evoked potentials or PERG parameters and OCT measurements. Axonal damage in ganglion cells of the visual pathway can be detected based on structural measures provided by OCT in MS patients and by the N95 component and N95/P50 index of PERG, thus providing good correlation between function and structure.

Synthesis and thermoluminescent characterization of LiF doped with Ag; Sintesis y caracterizacion termoluminiscente de LiF dopado con Ag

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Encarnacion, E. K.; Reyes, J.; Guerrero, Z. [Universidad Autonoma de Santo Domingo, Facultad de Ciencias, Ciudad Universitaria, Santo Domingo (Dominican Republic); Sosa, M. A.; Vallejo, M. A.; Rivera P, E., E-mail: emma.kee@gmail.com [Universidad de Guanajuato, Campus Leon, Division de Ciencias e Ingenierias, Loma del Bosque 103, Col. Lomas del Campestre, 37150 Leon, Guanajuato (Mexico)

2015-10-15

Full text: In this paper the synthesis and characterization of lithium fluoride (LiF) crystals pure and activated with silver (Ag) is reported. The synthesis was carried out by the method of co-precipitation; three samples were obtained one of pure LiF and two were activated with 0.02 and 0.04% of Ag. All samples were subjected to X-ray emission and the results were analyzed. The synthesized samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction, thermoluminescence and X-ray fluorescence. The XRD results show complete crystal structures. The radiation dosimetry responses are discussed. These are the first results of a research conducted at the Universidad Autonoma de Santo Domingo in collaboration with the Universidad de Guanajuato. (Author)

Glass characterization to assess the airborne sound isolation; Caracterizacion de vidrios para la evaluacion del aislamiento acustico a ruido aereo

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Alba Fernandez, J.; Rey Tormos, R. del; Ramis Soriano, J.; Berto Carbo, L.

2012-11-01

The main contribution of this paper is the formulation of an alternative to experimental determination of loss factor and, consequently, to improve the predictions of airborne sound insulation for any type of monolithic or laminated glass. In addition, a review of the standards related to measurement of mechanical parameters of glass is carried out, with particular interest in laminated glass Indeed, one of the problems that arise in the current context of building acoustics is to meet the requirements of facades airborne sound insulation of existing Building Technical Code (BTC). It is known that the blind and the hollow part of the facade should be distinguished. The weakest part regarding to airborne sound insulation is the empty one (consisting of glass, woodwork and other elements). Choosing an adequate woodwork makes the glass surface become the limiting factor. The Constructive Elements Catalog (CEC) of the BTC, the UNE-EN 12758:2011 standard, as well as some, increasingly, data vendors provide information about airborne sound insulation for monolithic glass, laminated glass and double glazing. In the case of laminated glass, these data are limited only to those with a single intermediate layer, and also nonacoustic. Can therefore be said that there is a gap of knowledge in this regard. To obtain reliable predictions of airborne sound insulation of multilayer partitions, such as laminated glass, mechanical characteristics must be known, being loss factor one of the most important. (Author) 7 refs.

Experimental Setup to Characterize Bentonite Hydration Processes; Diseno experimental para la caracterizacion de los procesos de hidratacion de la bentonita

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Bru, A.; Casero, D.; Pastor, J.M.

2001-07-01

We present an experimental setup to follow-up the hydration process of a bentonite. Clay samples, of 2 cm x 12 cm x 12 cm, were made and introduced in a Hele-Shaw cell with two PMM windows and two steel frames. In hydration experiments, a fluid enters by an orifice in the frame, located both at the top and the bottom of the cell, to perform hydration in both senses. To get a uniform hydration we place a diffuser near the orifice. Volume influxes in hydration cells are registered in time. The evolution of the developed interface was recorded on a videotape. The video cameras was fixed to a holder so that the vertical direction in the monitor was the same as the direction of the larger extension of the cell. (Author) 6 refs.

Introduction to materials science: Preparation and characterization techniques. Introduccion a la ciencia de los materiales: tecnicas de preparacion y caracterizacion

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Albella, J.M.; Cintas, A.M.; Miranda, T.

1993-01-01

The materials science in this book is analyzed. Through 18 chapters the materials type, their structure, chemical reactions, mechanical properties are studied. Also optical properties of materials, magnetic properties, thin films, electronic microscopy and electric optic spectroscopy are analyzed.

Microstructural characterization of copper based alloys produced by reactive milling; caracterizacion microestructural de aleaciones base cobre obtenidas mediante molienda reactiva

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Palma, R.; Sepulveda, A.; Zuniga, A.; Donoso, E.; Dianez, M. J.; Criado, J. M.

2010-07-01

The micro and nano structure of Cu-Al, Cu-V and Cu-Ti alloys produced by reactive milling were analyzed using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Samples with different milling times (t= 0, 10, 20 and 30 h) were considered. The grain size, dislocation density and residual micro strain were evaluated form the XRD data using the Williamson-Hall and Klug-Alexander methods. The evolution of texture as a function of milling time was also studied using XRD. It was found, using TEM, that the grain size and dispersoid size were nano metric in all three alloys considered. (Author) 12 refs.

Synthesis by plasma and characterization of compounds derived from polyacetylene; Sintesis por plasma y caracterizacion de compuestos derivados del poliacetileno

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Vasquez O, M

2004-07-01

This work presents a study on, the synthesis by plasma and the characterization of an aliphatic conjugated polymer, polyacetylene-chlorinated (Pac), and two aromatic polymers, Poly pyrrole (P Py-Cl) and Poly thiophene (Pth-Cl) synthesized with chlorine and the electrical conductivity. The last two polymers were synthesized to compare the chlorine-polymer interaction in aliphatic and aromatic polymers synthesized by plasma and their repercussion on the electrical transport of charges in the material. The structure and morphology of the polymers were studied using scanning electron microscopy (Sem), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), infrared spectroscopy (Ft-IR), conductivity analysis and X-Ray photon spectroscopy (XPS). The results showed that Pac is soluble in acetone and other organic solvents, which indicates a low proportion of crosslinking in the polymers. This point is important because the crosslinking reduces the electrical conductivity in the material. The Pac conductivity is in the range of 1 x 10{sup -12} to 6 x 10{sup -4} S/cm in the internal of 35- 90% of relative humidity. A possible mechanism for the transport of electrical charges in Pac is by means of the double and simple conjugated bonds in the polymers. Pth-Cl and P Py-Cl present electric conductivity in the interval of 9 x 10{sup -5} to 1 x 10{sup -2} S/cm and show a great dependence on the relative humidity. The chlorine addition in these polymers was through simultaneous polymerization with chloroform. This last compound can decompose if the energy of the plasma is relatively high, and the fragments can link to the polymer in a hybrid process of copolymerization. An important point of this work is that the polymer is soluble, a difference of the obtained via plasma as the poli aniline, P Py-CI and Pth-Cl both studied in this work. If took in account that the Pac is single the monomer and that P Py-Cl and Pth-CI is affected by the chlorine that modifies the conductivity of the material, then Pac presents an electrical conductivity greater that P Py-Cl and Pth-Cl. (Author)

DHA supplementation for late onset Stargardt disease: NAT-3 study

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Giuseppe Querques

2010-06-01

Full Text Available Giuseppe Querques1, Pascale Benlian1, Bernard Chanu2, Nicolas Leveziel1, Gabriel Coscas1, Gisele Soubrane1, Eric H Souied11Department of Ophthalmology, University of Paris XII, Centre Hospitalier Intercommunal de Creteil, 2Department of Nutrition, University of Paris XII, Hopital Henry Mondor, Creteil, FranceBackground: We analyzed the effects of a docosahexaenoic acid (DHA supplementation in patients affected with late onset Stargardt disease (STGD.Methods: DHA (840 mg/day was given to 20 STGD patients for six months. A complete ophthalmologic examination, including best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA and multifocal electroretinogram (mfERG, was performed at inclusion day 0 (D0 and at month 6 (M6.Results: Overall, no statistical differences have been observed at M6 vs D0 as regards BCVA and mfERG (P > 0.05. Mild Improvement of BCVA and improvement of mfERG was noted in seven/40 eyes of four/20 patients. In the first patient, the peak of the a wave increased from 66 nV/deg² to 75.4 nV/deg² in the right eye (RE and 24.5 nV/deg² to 49.1 nV/deg² in the left eye (LE. The peak of the b wave improved from 122 nV/deg² to 157 nV/deg² in the RE, and 102 nV/deg² to 149 nV/deg² in the LE. In the second patient peaks of the a and b waves respectively increased from 11.8 nV/deg² to 72.1 nV/deg² and 53 nV/deg² to 185 nV/deg² in the RE. In the third patient the peak of the a wave increased from 37 nV/deg² to 43 nV/deg² in the RE, and from 31 nV/deg² to 45 nV/deg² in the LE; the peak of the b wave improved from 70 nV/deg² to 89 nV/deg² in the RE, and from 101 nV/deg² to 108 nV/deg² in the LE. In the fourth patient, the peak of the a wave increased from 39 nV/deg² to 42 nV/deg² in the RE, and from 40 nV/deg² to 43 nV/deg² in the LE; the peak of the b wave improved from 86 nV/deg² to 94 nV/deg² in the RE, and from 87 nV/deg² to 107 nV/deg² in the LE.Conclusion: DHA seems to influence some functional parameters in patients affected with

Multifocal electroretinography changes at the 1-year follow-up in a cohort of diabetic macular edema patients treated with ranibizumab.

Science.gov (United States)

Baget-Bernaldiz, Marc; Romero-Aroca, Pedro; Bautista-Perez, Angel; Mercado, Joaquin

2017-10-01

To determine the changes in the multifocal electroretinogram (mfERG) at 1 year in a clinical series of diabetic macular edema (DME) patients treated with ranibizumab (RNBZ) using a pro re nata protocol. We analyzed a clinical series of 35 eyes of 35 patients with DME at baseline and after treating them with RNBZ over 1 year, in order to determine the change in the macular function, which was assessed by means of the response density and the implicit time of the first-order kernel (FOK) P1 wave of the mfERG at the foveola (R1), fovea (R2) and parafovea (R3). These electrophysiological parameters were studied taking into account different independent variables, such as DME type, degree of diabetic retinopathy (DR), level of preservation of both the ellipsoid zone (IS/OS) and the external limiting membrane (ELM) and changes in central retinal thickness (CRT) and total macular volume (TMV). We also studied the relationship between the response density and the best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA). Eyes with cystic and spongiform DME showed better response density with respect to the serous type (p < 0.001) at baseline. Similarly, eyes with high IS/OS and ELM preservation rates showed higher initial response density compared to the others (p < 0.001). Eyes with moderate DR had better response density compared to those with severe and proliferative DR (p = 0.001). At the beginning of the study, those eyes with proliferative and severe DR showed longer implicit times with respect to those with moderate DR (p = 0.04). The response density significantly increased in eyes that anatomically restored the IS/OS and the ELM after being treated with RNBZ (both p < 0.001). Similarly, eyes with spongiform DME further improved the response density with respect to those with cystic and serous DME (p < 0.001). On the contrary, eyes with hard exudates showed less improvement in their response density at the end of the study (p < 0.001). We observed a significant

Automation of the Process to Obtain U F{sub 4} Powders; Ingenieria Basica para la Automatizacion del Proceso de Obtencion de Polvos de UF{sub 4}

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Fenocchio, A D [Instituto Balseiro, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, Centro Atomico Bariloche, Universidad de Buenos Aires (Argentina)

2001-07-01

Here is exposed the preliminary analysis of the control system to be implemented in the Production Plant of UF{sub 4} Powders.The work has been done in the electronic laboratory.This implies, the setting of devices (PLC, Temperature Controllers, etc.) and the setting of the communications using the proper protocol.Also is shown a study about the logic for the first part of the conversion process of UF{sub 6}: the evaporation.This study is used to define the methodology to follow in a future PLC program.

Possibilities of basic and applied researches using low energy ion beams accelerators; Posibilidades de investigacion basica y aplicada con aceleradores de haces ionicos de bajas energias

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Morales, Roberto [Chile Univ., Santiago (Chile). Lab. de Fisica Nuclear

1997-12-31

Full text: The availability of ion sources that allow to accelerate heavy and light ions, and the new compact accelerators have opened interesting possibilities for using in basic and applied research, Some of the research lines such as material, environmental, archaeology, bio-medicine are shown.

Insulator contamination effects; Efectos de la contaminacion en aislamientos

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Gonzalez, Lucia [Instituto de Investigaciones Electricas, Cuernavaca (Mexico)

1987-12-31

Environmental contamination deteriorates the electric insulators, mechanically as well as electrically; the mechanical problems caused by contamination are related basically with materials corrosion and degradation and the electrical problems are related to the deterioration of their dielectric rigidity. From the electrical standpoint, the type of contamination that cause more problems are divided into: marine, desert and industrial. It is not uncommon to find various combinations of these types of contamination. When the electric installations operate in polluted environments, the insulator electric behavior deteriorates, provoking increments in the operation costs for maintenance as well as for replacement. Mexico has large extensions of coasts (marine contamination), where nowadays large cities and productions centers are developed (industrial pollution); also, in some cases for the energy transportation is necessary to go through large land extensions, where no vegetation of any kind exists. For this reason the contamination effect on the electric installations must be considered in order to obtain a reliable and economical energy supply. [Espanol] La contaminacion ambiental deteriora los aisladores electricos tanto mecanica como electricamente; los problemas mecanicos por contaminacion se relacionan en forma basica con la corrosion y degradacion de los materiales, y los electricos se vinculan con el deterioro de su rigidez dielectrica. Desde el punto de vista electrico, los tipos de contaminacion que mas problemas ocasionan se dividen en: marina, desertica e industrial. Es comun encontrar diversas combinaciones de estas. Cuando las instalaciones electricas operan en ambientes contaminados, el comportamiento electrico de los aisladores se deteriora, provocando incrementos en los costos de operacion, tanto por mantenimiento como por reposicion. Mexico cuenta con grandes extensiones de costas (contaminacion marina), donde actualmente se desarrollan ciudades y

The distribution of the electric energy consumed in the World Trade Center building; La distribucion de la energia electrica consumida en el edificio World Trade Center

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Gaona de la Fuente, Alvaro; Carrillo Borja, Angel [Luz y Fuerza del Centro, Mexico, D. F. (Mexico)

1997-12-31

basicas para nuevas instalaciones en este tipo de edificios

Insulator contamination effects; Efectos de la contaminacion en aislamientos

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Gonzalez, Lucia [Instituto de Investigaciones Electricas, Cuernavaca (Mexico)

1986-12-31

Environmental contamination deteriorates the electric insulators, mechanically as well as electrically; the mechanical problems caused by contamination are related basically with materials corrosion and degradation and the electrical problems are related to the deterioration of their dielectric rigidity. From the electrical standpoint, the type of contamination that cause more problems are divided into: marine, desert and industrial. It is not uncommon to find various combinations of these types of contamination. When the electric installations operate in polluted environments, the insulator electric behavior deteriorates, provoking increments in the operation costs for maintenance as well as for replacement. Mexico has large extensions of coasts (marine contamination), where nowadays large cities and productions centers are developed (industrial pollution); also, in some cases for the energy transportation is necessary to go through large land extensions, where no vegetation of any kind exists. For this reason the contamination effect on the electric installations must be considered in order to obtain a reliable and economical energy supply. [Espanol] La contaminacion ambiental deteriora los aisladores electricos tanto mecanica como electricamente; los problemas mecanicos por contaminacion se relacionan en forma basica con la corrosion y degradacion de los materiales, y los electricos se vinculan con el deterioro de su rigidez dielectrica. Desde el punto de vista electrico, los tipos de contaminacion que mas problemas ocasionan se dividen en: marina, desertica e industrial. Es comun encontrar diversas combinaciones de estas. Cuando las instalaciones electricas operan en ambientes contaminados, el comportamiento electrico de los aisladores se deteriora, provocando incrementos en los costos de operacion, tanto por mantenimiento como por reposicion. Mexico cuenta con grandes extensiones de costas (contaminacion marina), donde actualmente se desarrollan ciudades y

Preparation and Characterization of Molybdenum Thin Film to Photovoltaic applications; Preparacion y Caracterizacion de Peliculas Delgadas de Molibdeno para Aplicaciones Fotovoltaicas

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Andres, M.; Gutierrez, M. T.

2007-09-18

Molybdenum (Mo) is one of the main material used as back ohmic contact for Cu(In,Ga)Se2 (CIGS) thin film solar cells. It has to provide the electrical properties of low resistivity electrode and high reflectance in the absorbance region of CIGS layer. Also, it has to have high thermal stability, an adequate morphology and good adhesion to the substrate. The aim of this work has been the preparation of Mo layers onto two types of substrates, soda-lime glass (SLG) and a commercial flexible polyimide called Kapton, and the evaluation as a flexible substrate in CIGS solar cells. Internal stress, adhesion, microstructure and optical and electrical properties of Mo thin films have been studied as a function of deposition parameters (gas pressure, power density and time). The change of the substrate from rigid one to flexible introduces tensile stress due to the difference in the coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) between the coating and the substrate. Low stress in Mo/Kapton structure has been obtained; this is a good result to use in CIGS flexible solar cells. (Author) 23 refs.

The study of cultural objects by nuclear and conventional techniques; Estudio de bienes culturales con tecnicas de caracterizacion nucleares y convencionales

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Palacios, Tulio A [Comision Nacional de Energia Atomica, General San Martin (Argentina). Centro Atomico Constituyentes

2000-07-01

A survey is given of the techniques that are used at the National Atomic Energy Commission of Argentina for the characterization and study of cultural and archaeological specimens. A short history of these activities is also given. (author)

Thermo active piles and diaphragm walls building process and thermal response test; Pilotes y pantallas termoactivas. Proceso constructivo y caracterizacion termica

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Mazariegos, A.; Anton, L. C.; Valle, R.; Urchueguia, J.; Quilis, S.; Martinez, S.; Magraner, T.

2009-07-01

Thermo active foundation technology uses building foundation piles diaphragm wall slabs as ground heat exchangers to provide building with heating and cooling. This type of foundation is based on the use of the ground temperature to enhance the heat pump coefficient of performance (COP). In this kind of structures, the heat exchange can be done through a closed circuit installed on the reinforced of the foundation. This closed circuit is made up of HDPE pipes geothermal probes, through which water or brine circulates producing a heat exchange between this fluid and the ground. this fluid is led to a geothermal heat pump GHP, generating the energy required for air-conditioning a building. ENERGESIS, leading company in the air-conditioning field using geothermal energy and RADIO KRONSA, leading company in the engineering field of soil and subsoil, with the collaboration of the Universidad Politecnica de Valencia (UPV) and the Escuela Universitaria de Ingenieria Tecnica de Obras Publicas (UPM), have developed an action line to design and implement saving energy facilities by using geothermal energy associated with the foundations. A series of tests at work have been done in order to have a procedure to implement the thermal response of thermo active piles and diaphragm walls. (Author) 7 refs.

CARACTERIZACION DE LA PROTEINA QUINASA CK2 EN ARABIDOPSIS THALIANA Y SU PAPEL EN LA RESPUESTA DE DEFENSA A ESTRES OXIDATIVO.

OpenAIRE

SALINAS SALVO, PAULA ANDREA; SALINAS SALVO, PAULA ANDREA

2006-01-01

CK2 es una proteína quinasa heterotetramérica compuesta de dos subunidades catalíticas a y dos subunidades reguladoras P. CK2 es esencial, esta presente en todos los organismos eucariontes y regula una gran cantidad de procesos celulares como por ejemplo 180p.

CARACTERIZACION FENOTIPICA Y TIPIFICACION MOLECULAR DE CEPAS DE CRYPTOCOCCUS NEOFORMANS AISLADAS DE MUESTRAS CLINICAS EN HOSPITALES TERCIARIOS DEL SUR DE CHILE

OpenAIRE

BARRIA I., YOLANDA B.

2012-01-01

Criptococosis es una micosis sistémica oportunista causada por dos especies levaduriformes capsuladas, C. neoformans causan infecciones en individuos immunodeprimidos ptincipalmente y Criptococcus gattii lo hace tanto en immunocompetentes como en personas inmunodeprimidas. C. neoformans es comúnmente asociado a excretas de palomas mientras que la especie C. gattii es encontrado en especies arbóreas como eucaliptos, ficus y otras. C neoformcms se subdivide en dos variedades distintas neofor...

Investigations on the nature and physical concentration of Spanish uraniferous quartzites; Estudios de caracterizacion y concentracion fisica de cuarcitas uraniferas espanolas

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Lora, F de [Direccion de Plantas Piloto e Industriales, Junta de Energia Nuclear, Madrid (Spain)

1967-06-15

A study was made of a sample of radioactive material from Santa Elena (Jaen) containing 130 ppm U{sub 3}O{sub 8}, 300 ppm ThO{sub 2}, 4.96% ZrO{sub 2} and 14.29% TiO{sub 2}. Over 150 million tons of material were examined. In the light of the studies carried out the material can be defined as a rutilo-zirconiferous quartzite with a double radioactivity source due to the uranium enclosed in the zircon lattice structure and to the presence of monazite. The possibility of brannerite or davidite being present can be discarded. There is likewise no conclusive evidence of the presence of sphene, rutile being the most abundant titanium mineral. The author determined the features of the ore with a view to its physical concentration and applied magnetic and gravimetric separation and the flotation process. The use of oleic acid as collector has permitted good zircon recovery. (author) [Spanish] Se ha estudiado una muestra de material radiactivo procedente de Santa Elena (Jaen) con 130 ppm de U{sub 3}O{sub 8}, 600 ppm de ThO{sub 2}, 4,96% de ZrO{sub 2} y 14,29% de TiO{sub 2}. El material examinado es considerable: mas de 150 millones de toneladas. De acuerdo con los estudios realizados se puede definir como una cuarcita rutilo-circonifera con dos fuentes de radiactividad debidas al uranio englobado en la red del circon y a la presencia de monacita. Se descarta la posibilidad de existencia de brannerita o davidita. Tampoco existen pruebas concluyentes de que contenga esfena, siendo el ratilo el mineral de titanio mas abundante. Se han determinado las caracteristicas de la mena con vistas a su concentracion fisica. Se ha ensayado la separacion magnetica, gravimetrica y flotacion. El empleo de acido oleico, como colector, ha dado buenas recuperaciones de circon. (author)

Characterization of Loma Venturilla pegmatites using nuclear techniques; Caracterizacion de las pegmatitas de Loma Venturilla mediante el uso de tecnicas nucleares

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Pena Fortes, B; Caopte Rodriguez, G; Toujague La Rosa, R [Centro de Estudios Aplicados al Desarrollo Nuclear (CEADEN), La Habana (Cuba); Sukar Satraputa, K [Instituto de Geofisica y Astronomia, La Habana (Cuba)

1996-10-01

Neutron Activation Analysis (NAA) and gamma spectrometry Analysis (GEA) were used for the determination of 21 trace elements in geological samples of pegmatites of Loma Venturilla area. Both methods permitted, in general, the determination of K, Cr, Co, Sc, Rb, Cs, Ba, Ta, HF, Th, and U and 10 rare earths elements: La, Ce, Nd, Sm, Eu, Tb, Ho, Tm, Yb, and Lu. The results were obtained with good precision and accuracy The knowledge of such concentrations is of great interest in geosciences. The values of the concentrations obtained can be extensively used in petrogenetic studies of those rocks, since they facilitate the evaluation and estimation of the extent of the main process, involved in the generation and differentiation of the melts from which the pegmatites were derivates.

The physicochemical characterization of cave paintings of Baja California; Caracterizacion fisicoquimica de pigmentos y soportes en pinturas murales: caso Mayapan, Yucatan

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Valdez, B.; Cobo, J.; Schorr, M. [Area de Corrosion y Materiales, Instituto de Ingenieria, Universidad Autonoma de Baja California, Blvd. Benito Juarez, S/N, 21280, Mexicali, B.C. (Mexico); Cota, L. [Centro de Ciencias de la Materia Condensada, UNAM, Ensenada, B.C. (Mexico); Oviedo, F. [Centro INAH - BC, Ensenada, B.C. (Mexico)]. e-mail: benval@iing.mxl.uabc.mx

2006-07-01

The Palaeolithic paintings of Baja California constitute an important contribution to the national, historic and cultural patrimony of Mexico. The aim of this investigation was to determine the physicochemical characteristics, the microstructure and texture of these polychrome paintings, painted on rocks encountered in the mountainous, desert/arid zones of Baja California and Baja California South. The first stage of this work was devoted to the examination and recording of the cave paintings of 'El Vallecito', a narrow fluvial valley displaying large granitic rocks emerging from the sandy soil. Tiny painting samples were collected and analyzed by SEM, EDS and FTIR techniques. The painters used four main colours: red, black, yellow and white. The paint raw materials are mineral pigments: white (kaolin, calcite, and gypsum), red (hematite), yellow (ochre, limonite), black (charcoal from burnt wood or calcined bones) and water as a diluent and/or a binder, all encountered in the painters habitat. The minerals were collected, ground and sometimes heated to change their tone. By mixing with water, a spreadable paste or a thick slurry was produced, which was applied with the fingers for lines or a piece of animal skin for figures, respectively. The 100% solids, dry paint converts into a dense, hard layer, incrusted into the grainy, rough, hollow granite rock surface. This paint might be called {sup s}tone on stone{sup ,} explaining its permanence for centuries enduring heat, wind and weather. A simulation of the painting technique was done at the Materials and Corrosion Laboratory, UABC by collecting mineral pigments, preparing the paint as a paste or slurry and applying it on a granitic rock. Knowing the paint composition, production and application techniques will be useful in e conservation and restoration of cave paintings and stone-built, ancient structures such as pyramids, cathedrals and monuments. (Author)

Microstructural characterization of material used as supporter in pre hispanic paints; Caracterizacion microestructural de material utilizado como soporte en pinturas prehispanicas

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Silva V, Y. [FIME-UANL, San Nicolas de los Garza, Nuevo Leon (Mexico); Zorrilla, C.; Canetas, J.; Hernandez, R.; Aguilar F, M.; Arenas A, J. [IFUNAM, 04510 Mexico D.F. (Mexico); Martinez, G. [INAH, 04000 Mexico D.F. (Mexico)

2005-07-01

The aim of this work is to show the characterization of pre hispanic paintings mainly of the materials that support the pigments. The samples come from three different archaeological sites, Palenque-Chiapas (two specimens), Teotihuacan-Estado de Mexico (one specimen) and Mitla-Oaxaca (one specimen); Mayan, Teotihuacan and Mixtec-Zapotec culture respectively. The samples were analyzed by Sem, EDS, Tem, XRD and IR. The results show calcite as common phase for all the samples, however exist other phases identified depending on the site as dolomite, ankerite, calcium silicon chloride, etc. The origin of the red color of the analyzed pigments were cinnabar (HgS) by a sample of Palenque and hematite (Fe{sub 2}O{sub 3}) by the other specimen, this last crystalline phase also present in the Mitla and Teotihuacan samples. By IR were identified some organic compounds in all the samples, but not copal. (Author)

Characterization of lithium batteries for application to photovoltaic systems; Caracterizacion de bater@as de litio para aplicaci@n a sistemas fotovoltaicos

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Guzman Ortiz, S.

2015-07-01

This master's thesis addresses the characterization of four different types of Battery technologies; the li-ion, the LiFePO4, the lead crystal and the lead acid. Because these devices are used in electric applications, calculations were made to assess the capacities and energies of the batteries while at different discharges ratios in runs from 5 to 50 hours, which are the most common on the photovoltaic sector. Also, we observed the behavior of the batteries when put through a rise of temperature to measure the fluctuations in the voltage, capacity and energy. Tests were performed at constant power to observe the behavior of the discharge intensity. When making the comparisons of the capacity and the energy, the LiFePO4 battery proved to be the best and better behavior in the tests at constant discharge rates. (Author)

Development and characterization of ultra-thin dosemeters of aluminium oxide; Desarrollo y caracterizacion de dosimetros ultra-delgados de oxido de aluminio

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Villagran V, E

2003-07-01

The aim of the present thesis work has been to investigate the thermoluminescent (Tl) response of aluminium oxide thin films with thicknesses of the order of 300 nm prepared by laser ablation. Aluminium oxide thin films show Tl response after they are subject to ultraviolet, beta and gamma radiation. The Tl curves exhibit peaks around 75 C and 169 C for UV radiation, 112 C and 180 C for beta particles and 110 C and 176 C for gamma radiation. In order to improve the Tl response some growth parameters such as power density and distance target-substrate were varied. The relation dose-response shows a non-linear behavior for UV irradiation; a linear behavior for beta-particles dose from 150 mGy to 50 Gy, and a linear behavior for gamma radiation dose from 5 Gy to 100 Gy. The kinetic Tl parameters were determined by Computerized Glow Curve Deconvolution (CGCD) method as well as using analytical methods. The CGCD results show that the high temperature peak is composed by four peaks with maximums in 165.7, 188.1, 215.3, 246.5 C. These obey a second order kinetics. The trap depth (E) values are 1.4, 1.6, 1.8 and 2.0 eV respectively. The different analytical results show a trap depth values of 0.914, 0.82 and 0.656 eV respectively. Oxide aluminium thin films obtained would be a suitable tool owing to their potential applications in clinical dosimetry, in the dose distributions due to weekly penetrating radiation determination, and in interfaces dosimetry. (Author)

Characterization of agua de Ramon marbles, Cordoba Province, Argentina; Caracterizacion de los marmoles de agua de Ramon Provincia de Cordoba, Argentina

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Tourn, S; Castro, L. [Departamento de Ciencias Geologicas, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de buenos Aires, (Argentina)]. E mail: selvia@fcen.uba.ar, lilianacastro@fibertel.com.ar

2004-09-01

Agua de Ramon district is located in the NW of Cordoba, Argentina, between 3 49' and 30{sup 0}52' S and 65{sup 0}21' and 65{sup 0}24' W, in the Eastern Pampean Range setting. It was a very important tungsten district until the end of 1950'decade when tungsten mining became of no economic interest. The objective is to report for the first time the petrological, mineralogical and geochemical characteristics of several marble lenses located in the sourthern of the area. Marble outcrops are lenticular ranging from 1 m to 80 m in length and 0.50 m to 20 m width. They appear massive, fine-grained and in light colors (white, pale green, very light brown and pale gray). These last varieties show a distinct banded structure due to little differences in color. These marbles are mainly composed of magnesian calcite accompanied by minor amounts of dolomite, forsterite, humite group minerals, tremolite, talc, serpentine and clinochlore, and scheelite, sphene, apatite and opaque minerals like hematite, magnetite, illmenite, pirrothite and pyrite as accessory minerals. Major chemical analyses indicate a relatively high SiO2 and MgO content, and minor CaO, in comparison with marbles of this type. Mineral paragenesis was useful to evaluate metamorphism conditions in this area. [Spanish] El distrito Agua de Ramon se localiza en el departamento de Minas al noroeste de la provincia de Cordoba, Argentina, entre los paralelos 30{sup 0}49' y 30{sup 0}52' de latitud sur y los meridianos 65{sup 0}21' y 65{sup 0}24' de longitud oeste, en el ambito de las Sierras Pampeanas Orientales. En el pasado constituyo un importante distrito de explotacion wolframifera, pero dicha actividad se halla paralizada desde fines de la decada del '50. El objetivo de este trabajo es hacer conocer por primera vez las caracteristicas de los marmoles localizados en el sector sur desde el punto de vista petrografico, mineralogico y geoquimico de manera que permita realizar un analisis petrogenetico. Los cuerpos son de formas lenticulares, con potencias y longitudes variables (0.50 m a 20 m y 1 m a 80 m). Los marmoles son de color blanco y estructura maciza o bien en tonalidades verdosas, castanas y grises, dando paso a una estructura bandeada no marcada; la textura es de grano fino a mediano. Su composicion es esencialmente calcitica con contenidos de magnesio elevados en relacion con su mineralogia, que consiste en calcita, dolomita, forsterita, grupo de la humita, tremolita, talco, serpentina y clinocloro. Los accesorios son scheelita, titanita, apatita y minerales opacos como magnetita, ilmenita, hematita, pirrotina y pirita. Los analisis quimicos mayoritarios indican contenidos relativamente elevados de SiO2 y MgO y menores de CaO en comparacion con valores de la literatura. La paragenesis registrada en estos marmoles permitio evaluar las condiciones de metamorfismo imperantes en el area.

SELECCION Y CARACTERIZACION DE CONSORCIOS BACTERIANOS CON POTENCIALIDAD DE REMOVE RCO2 Y H2S EN UNA ATMOSFERA DE BIOGAS

OpenAIRE

QUIROZ ESPINOZA, MADELAINE SOLANGE

2013-01-01

La búsqueda de alternativas al uso del petróleo ha generado un fuerte interés en el desarrollo de energías no convencionales, como el biogás. En la actualidad se han implementado métodos físicos y químicos para remover los principales contaminantes del biogás. Sin embargo, también han surgido otros métodos de remoción de contaminantes que utilizan procesos microbiológicos, como el uso de consorcios bacterianos. Estos procedimientos se caracterizan por su robustez frente a fluctuaciones ambien...

Characterization of a neutron source of {sup 239}PuBe; Caracterizacion de una fuente de neutrones de {sup 239}PuBe

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Hernandez V, R.; Chacon R, A.; Hernandez D, V. M.; Mercado, G. A.; Vega C, H. R. [Universidad Autonoma de Zacatecas, Unidad Academica de Estudios Nucleares, Calle Cipres No. 10, Fracc. La Penuela, 98068 Zacatecas (Mexico); Ramirez G, J. [Instituto Nacional de Estadistica Geografia e Informatica, Direccion General de Innovacion y Tecnologia de Informacion, Av. Heroes de Nacozari Sur 2301, Fracc. Jardines del Parque, 20276 Aguascalientes (Mexico)], e-mail: ruben_zac@yahoo.com

2009-10-15

The spectrum equivalent dose and environmental equivalent dose f a {sup 239}PuBe source have been determined. The appropriate handling of a neutron source depends on the knowledge of its characteristics, such as its energy distribution, total rate of flowing and dosimetric magnitudes. In many facilities have not spectrometer that allows to determine the spectrum and then area monitors are used that give a dosimetric magnitude starting from measuring the flowing rate and the use of conversion factors, however this procedure has many limitations and it is preferable to measure the spectra and starting from this information the interest dosimetric magnitudes are calculated. In this work a Bonner sphere spectrometer has been used with a {sup 6}LiI(Eu) scintillator obtaining the count rates that produce, to a distance of 100 cm, a {sup 239}PuBe source of 1.85E(11) Bq. The spectrum was reconstructed starting from the count rates using BUNKIUT code and response matrix UTA4. With the spectrum information was calculated the source intensity, total flow, energy average, equivalent dose rate, environmental equivalent dose rate, equivalent dose coefficient and environmental equivalent dose coefficient. By means of two area monitors for neutrons, Eberline ASP-1 and LB 6411 of Berthold the equivalent dose and environmental equivalent dose were measured. The determinate values were compared with those reported in literature and it found that are coincident inside 17%. (Author)

Synthesis and thermoluminescent characterization of lithium niobate doped with erbium; Sintesis y caracterizacion termoluminiscente de niobato de litio impurificado con erbio

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Landavazo, M.; Brown, F.; Cubillas, F. [Universidad de Sonora, Departamento de Investigacion en Polimeros y Materiales, Blvd. Luis Encinas y Rosales s/n, 83000 Hermosillo, Sonora (Mexico); Munoz, I. [Universidad de Sonora, Departamento de Ciencias Quimico Biologicas, 83000 Hermosillo, Sonora (Mexico); Cruz Z, E., E-mail: imunoz@polimeros.uson.mx [UNAM, Instituto de Ciencias Nucleares, Apdo. Postal 70-543, 04510 Mexico D. F. (Mexico)

2015-10-15

Full text: Lithium niobate (Nl) is a synthetic dielectric and is mainly used in optical devices. There are reports on the thermoluminescent property of Nl monocrystals doped with rare earths and excited with X and gamma rays. In this study the Nl was synthesized and doped with erbium (Er) at concentrations of 1, 2 and 4 % mol and was characterized by its Tl property. The synthesis was realized by solid state reaction at 1000 degrees C for 22 hours and the formation of Nl:Er was confirmed by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and EDS analysis, finding a new phase (ErNbO{sub 4}). Was studied the dose-response gamma in a range of 1-1000 Gy, the material showed linear behavior of 1-600 Gy. The brightness curves have maxima at 185 and 285 degrees C to 1% in 183 and 301 degrees C for 2%, respectively. While for the concentration of 4% a maximum in 177 degrees C accompanied by a smaller peak at higher temperature of the glow curve was observed. The Tl response of Nl:Er 4% to 450 Gy was increased 271 times compared to pure Nl. The reproducibility of the Tl signal at ten cycles of irradiation-reading, present a standard deviation of 5%. In Nl:Er 1% Tl signal fades in 21.3% after 24 hours, while in 2 and 4% an unusual fading occurs. The Tl characteristics of Nl:Er synthesized material is of interest to gamma radiation dosimetry of high doses. (Author)

Characterization of sugar cane bagasse: part 1: physical characteristics; Caracterizacion del bagazo de la cana de azucar: parte 1: caracteristicas fisicas

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Alarcon, Guillermo A. Roca [Universidad de Oriente (UO/CEEFE), Santiago de Cuba (Cuba). Centro de Estudios de Eficiencia Energetica], Emails: roca@ceefe.uo.edu.cu, grocabayamon@hotmail.com; Sanchez, Caio Glauco [Universidade Estadual de Campinas (FEM/UNICAMP), SP (Brazil). Fac. de Engenharia Mecanica], Email: caio@fem.unicamp.br; Gomez, Edgardo Olivares [Universidade Estadual de Campinas (NIPE/UNICAMP), SP (Brazil). Nucleo Interdisciplinar de Planejamento Energetico], Emails: gomez@bioware.com.br, egomez@energiabr.org.br; Cortez, Luis Augusto Barbosa [Universidade Estadual de Campinas (FEAGRI/UNICAMP), SP (Brazil). Fac. de Engenharia Agricola], Email: cortez@reitoria.unicamp.br

2006-07-01

Fine materials or particles are often encountered in many industrial processes and in our daily life. Some examples are: salt or sugar; sand; cleaning products; fertilizer; cement; calcium hydroxide; some residues of energy biomass, for instance, sugar cane bagasse, straw of sugar cane, saw dust, straw of rice, and even, other types of particulates as aerosols, and residual ash from combustion processes of conventional solids. During the preparation and handling of these materials and also for design and optimization of some multiphase processes and equipment associated with them, as classifying, transport and pneumatic drying, and thermo chemical conversion systems, in general, it is indispensable knowing the principal physical and fluid dynamic characteristics or properties, which not always are available or well established. In this paper the Ergun Method is employed, which is based on theoretical equations established for a fixed bed of porous particles when it is crossed by a gas flow. From this expression and measurements of pressure loss for a given flow of gas crossing the bed at different heights, it is possible to determine some physical characteristics, as bulk density, real density, porosity, sphericity, and specific surface of the bed particles. The technique used for obtaining experimental data is simple but rigorous and it is possible to reproduce these data. Were tested several fractions of bagasse obtained by the conventional sieving process. Finally it was statistically processed all experimental results obtaining the corresponding mathematical models for the desired properties as a function of the mean diameter of the particles. These empirical equations can be used to determine these properties in the range and conditions specified and also for modeling some processes where these fractions are employed. (author)

The Moessbauer spectroscopy in the characterization of atmospheric corrosion products; La espectroscopia Moessbauer en la caracterizacion de productos de corrosion atmosferica

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Hernandez Torres, D; Leiva Ronda, P [Centro de Estudios Aplicados al Desarrollo Nuclear (CEADEN), La Habana (Cuba); Gomez, J; Ronda, M [Centro de Investigaciones del Petroleo, La Habana (Cuba)

1996-07-01

A study of corrosion products on mild steel formed after 1 and 5 years exposure in two industrial coastal weathering stations in the Bay from Matanzas City, Cuba, has been carried out. Structural analysis was conducted using mainly transmission Moessbauer Spectroscopy and the X-ray diffraction as complementary technique. The main phases found in the specimen exposed to high chloride containing environment were: lepidocrocite ({gamma}- FeOOH), goethite ({alpha}- FeOOH) and magnetite concentration was the lowest, the phases found were {gamma}- FeOOH and {alpha}- FeOOH, and the phase transformation proposed was {gamma}- FeOOh -> {alpha}- Fe-OOH. In this station were found also amorphous corrosion products. There amorphous phases could be responsible for the lowest levels of corrosion on steel in this station.

Characterization of an AISI H-13 steel for work in hot; Caracterizacion del acero H-13 AISI para trabajado en caliente

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Godinez, J.; Robles, E. [Instituto Nacional de Investigaciones Nucleares, Departamento de Sintesis y Caracterizacion de Materiales, A.P. 18-1027, 11801 Mexico D.F. (Mexico)

1998-07-01

Two materials were acquired which elaborated through secondary refining processes known as electroslag refusing (ESR) and electric arc in vacuum refusing (VAR) were acquired. These materials were thermically treated, for subsequently to determine their mechanical properties in longitudinal and transversal directions with respect to rolling direction, moreover they were characterized through scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction determining microstructure, carbides and non-metallic inclusions. The results of the mechanical essays allowed to evaluate the fracture toughness to this steel by the Barsom and Rolfe method. (Author)

Experimental characterization of the thermal and solar behavior of constructed houses; Caracterizacion experimental del comportamiento termico y solar de viviendas construidas

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Carrillo, A.; Jurado, L.; Molina, J. C.; Druet, L.

2008-07-01

Nowadays, detailed simulation models are widely used to assess thermal performance of buildings, specially during the design stage. However it is usual to report significant differences in predicted thermal performance when confronted with measured data. Therefore the model should be calibrated. In this paper, the PSTAR framework (Subbarao, 1988) is used to calibrate a Energy Plus model of a single-family dwelling. PSTAR method yields a set of renormalization coefficients that offer quantitative interpretation of the predicted vs measured differences. Other experimental tests are used to gain additional insight on how the model should be twicked judiciously. Once calibrated, the model matches three important thermal parameters of the real buildings: heat loss coefficient, thermal mass and solar gains. (Author)

Bilateral vision loss due to Leber's hereditary optic neuropathy after long-term alcohol, nicotine and drug abuse.

Science.gov (United States)

Maass, Johanna; Matthé, Egbert

2018-04-01

Leber's hereditary optic neuropathy is relatively rare, and no clinical pathognomonic signs exist. We present a rare case of bilateral vision loss of a patient with multiple drug abuse in the history. A 31-year-old man presented with a history of progressive, decreased vision in both eyes for 6 month. On examination, his visual acuity was hand motion in both eyes. Funduscopy demonstrated a temporal pallor of the optic disc. Goldmann visual field perimetry showed a crescent visual field in the right eye and a circular decrease to less than 50 ° in the left eye. Electroretinogram showed a scotopic b-wave amplitude reduction. Optical coherence tomographies, Heidelberg Retina tomography, visual evoked potentials, and magnetic resonance imaging with contrast as well as blood tests were normal. The patient reported to consume various kinds of drugs as well as recreational drug use and alcohol consumption since he was 16 years old. We started a hemodilution therapy, believing the patient suffered from a bilateral, toxic optic neuropathy due to his lifestyle. Laboratory results later on showed Leber's hereditary optic neuropathy. Leber's hereditary optic neuropathy is a rare disease without a typical, pathognomonic presentation. Even though the patient gave good reasons for a toxic optic neuropathy, one should never stop to test for other diseases.

HYPERAUTOFLUORESCENT RING IN AUTOIMMUNE RETINOPATHY

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LIMA, LUIZ H.; GREENBERG, JONATHAN P.; GREENSTEIN, VIVIENNE C.; SMITH, R. THEODORE; SALLUM, JULIANA M. F.; THIRKILL, CHARLES; YANNUZZI, LAWRENCE A.; TSANG, STEPHEN H.

2015-01-01

Purpose To report the presence of a hyperautofluorescent ring and corresponding spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) features seen in patients with autoimmune retinopathy. Methods All eyes were evaluated by funduscopic examination, full-fleld electroretinography, fundus autofluorescence, and SD-OCT. Further confirmation of the diagnosis was obtained with immunoblot and immunohistochemistry testing of the patient’s serum. Humphrey visual fields and microperimetry were also performed. Results Funduscopic examination showed atrophic retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) associated with retinal artery narrowing but without pigment deposits. The scotopic and photopic full-field electroretinograms were nondetectable in three patients and showed a cone–rod pattern of dysfunction in one patient. Fundus autofluorescence revealed a hyperautofluorescent ring in the parafoveal region, and the corresponding SD-OCT demonstrated loss of the photoreceptor inner segment–outer segment junction with thinning of the outer nuclear layer from the region of the hyperautofluorescent ring toward the retinal periphery. The retinal layers were generally intact within the hyperautofluorescent ring, although the inner segment–outer segment junction was disrupted, and the outer nuclear layer and photoreceptor outer segment layer were thinned. Conclusion This case series revealed the structure of the hyperautofluorescent ring in autoimmune retinopathy using SD-OCT. Fundus autofluorescence and SD-OCT may aid in the diagnosis of autoimmune retinopathy and may serve as a tool to monitor its progression. PMID:22218149

Recessive Stargardt Disease Phenocopying Hydroxychloroquine Retinopathy

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Noupuu, Kalev; Lee, Winston; Zernant, Jana; Greenstein, Vivienne C.; Tsang, Stephen; Allikmets, Rando

2015-01-01

Purpose To describe a series of Stargardt disease (STGD1) patients exhibiting a phenotype usually associated with hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) retinopathy on spectral domain-optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT). Methods Observational case series from Columbia University Medical Center involving 8 patients with genetically-confirmed STGD1. Patients selected for the study presented no history of HCQ use. Horizontal macular SD-OCT scans and accompanying 488nm autofluorescence (AF) images, color fundus photographs, and full-field electroretinograms were analyzed. Results All study patients exhibited an abrupt thinning of the parafoveal region or disruption of the outer retinal layers on SD-OCT resembling the transient HCQ retinopathy phenotype. Funduscopy and AF imaging revealed variations of bull’s eye maculopathy (BEM). Five patients exhibited local fleck-like deposits around the lesion. Genetic screening confirmed two disease-causing ABCA4 mutations in 5 patients and one mutation in 3 patients. Conclusions A transient SD- OCT phenotype ascribed to patients with HCQ retinopathy is associated with an early subtype of STGD1. This finding may also present with HCQ retinopathy-like BEM lesions on AF imaging and funduscopy. A phenotypic overlap may not be surprising given certain shared mechanistic disease processes between the two conditions. A thorough work-up, including screening of genes that are causal in retinal dystrophies associated with foveal sparing, may prevent the misdiagnoses of more ambiguous cases. PMID:26311262

Microarray-based mutation analysis of the ABCA4 (ABCR) gene in autosomal recessive cone-rod dystrophy and retinitis pigmentosa.

Science.gov (United States)

Klevering, B Jeroen; Yzer, Suzanne; Rohrschneider, Klaus; Zonneveld, Marijke; Allikmets, Rando; van den Born, L Ingeborgh; Maugeri, Alessandra; Hoyng, Carel B; Cremers, Frans P M

2004-12-01

Mutations in the ABCA4 gene have been associated with autosomal recessive Stargardt disease (STGD1), cone-rod dystrophy (CRD), and retinitis pigmentosa (RP). We employed a recently developed genotyping microarray, the ABCR400-chip, to search for known ABCA4 mutations in patients with isolated or autosomal recessive CRD (54 cases) or RP (90 cases). We performed detailed ophthalmologic examinations and identified at least one ABCA4 mutation in 18 patients (33%) with CRD and in five patients (5.6%) with RP. Single-strand conformation polymorphism (SSCP) analysis and subsequent DNA sequencing revealed four novel missense mutations (R24C, E161K, P597S, G618E) and a novel 1-bp deletion (5888delG). Ophthalmoscopic abnormalities in CRD patients ranged from minor granular pigmentary changes in the posterior pole to widespread atrophy. In 12 patients with recordable electroretinogram (ERG) tracings, a cone-rod pattern was detected. Three patients demonstrated progression from a retinal dystrophy resembling STGD1 to a more widespread degeneration, and were subsequently diagnosed as CRD. In addition to a variable degree of atrophy, all RP patients displayed ophthalmologic characteristics of classic RP. When detectable, ERG recordings in these patients demonstrated rod-cone patterns of photoreceptor degeneration. In conclusion, in this study, we show that the ABCA4 mutation chip is an efficient first screening tool for arCRD.

Edaravone Protect against Retinal Damage in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Mice

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Liu, Xiaoyi; Chen, Xi; Xie, Ping; Yuan, Songtao; Zhang, Weiwei; Lin, Xiaojun; Liu, Qinghuai

2014-01-01

Edaravone (3-methyl-1-phenyl-2-pyrazolin-5-one), a free radical scavenger, is used for the clinical treatment of retinal injury. In this study, we investigated the protective effects of edaravone against diabetic retinal damage in the mouse. Diabetic retinopathy in the mouse was induced by injection of streptozotocin. Edaravone was given once-daily and was intraperitoneally (i.p.) treated at a dose of 3 mg/kg from streptozotocin injection to 4 weeks after onset of diabetes. Retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) damage was evaluated by recording the pattern electroretinogram (ERG). RGCs damage was also detected by Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) staining, and the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) were determined fluorometrically. The expressions of phosporylated-ERK1/2, BDNF, and caspase-3 were determined by Western blot analysis. Retinal levels of ROS, phosphorylated ERK1/2, and cleaved caspase-3 were significantly increased, whereas the expression of BDNF was significantly decreased in the retinas of diabetic mice, compared to nondiabetic mice. Administration of edaravone significantly attenuated diabetes induced RGCs death, upregulation of ROS, ERK1/2 phosphorylation, and cleaved caspase-3 and downregulation of BDNF. These findings suggest that oxidative stress plays a pivotal role in diabetic retinal damage and that systemic administration of edaravone may slow the progression of retinal neuropathy induced by diabetes. PMID:24897298

Edaravone protect against retinal damage in streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice.

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Dongqing Yuan

Full Text Available Edaravone (3-methyl-1-phenyl-2-pyrazolin-5-one, a free radical scavenger, is used for the clinical treatment of retinal injury. In this study, we investigated the protective effects of edaravone against diabetic retinal damage in the mouse. Diabetic retinopathy in the mouse was induced by injection of streptozotocin. Edaravone was given once-daily and was intraperitoneally (i.p. treated at a dose of 3 mg/kg from streptozotocin injection to 4 weeks after onset of diabetes. Retinal ganglion cells (RGCs damage was evaluated by recording the pattern electroretinogram (ERG. RGCs damage was also detected by Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL staining, and the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS were determined fluorometrically. The expressions of phosporylated-ERK1/2, BDNF, and caspase-3 were determined by Western blot analysis. Retinal levels of ROS, phosphorylated ERK1/2, and cleaved caspase-3 were significantly increased, whereas the expression of BDNF was significantly decreased in the retinas of diabetic mice, compared to nondiabetic mice. Administration of edaravone significantly attenuated diabetes induced RGCs death, upregulation of ROS, ERK1/2 phosphorylation, and cleaved caspase-3 and downregulation of BDNF. These findings suggest that oxidative stress plays a pivotal role in diabetic retinal damage and that systemic administration of edaravone may slow the progression of retinal neuropathy induced by diabetes.

Norbixin Protects Retinal Pigmented Epithelium Cells and Photoreceptors against A2E-Mediated Phototoxicity In Vitro and In Vivo.

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Valérie Fontaine

Full Text Available The accumulation of N-retinylidene-N-retinylethanolamine (A2E, a toxic by-product of the visual pigment cycle in the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE is a major cause of visual impairment in the elderly. Photooxidation of A2E results in retinal pigment epithelium degeneration followed by that of associated photoreceptors. Present treatments rely on nutrient supplementation with antioxidants. 9'-cis-Norbixin (a natural diapocarotenoid, 97% purity was prepared from Bixa orellana seeds. It was first evaluated in primary cultures of porcine retinal pigment epithelium cells challenged with A2E and illuminated with blue light, and it provided an improved photo-protection as compared with lutein or zeaxanthin. In Abca4-/- Rdh8-/- mice (a model of dry AMD, intravitreally-injected norbixin maintained the electroretinogram and protected photoreceptors against light damage. In a standard rat blue-light model of photodamage, norbixin was at least equally as active as phenyl-N-tert-butylnitrone, a free radical spin-trap. Chronic experiments performed with Abca4-/- Rdh8-/- mice treated orally for 3 months with norbixin showed a reduced A2E accumulation in the retina. Norbixin appears promising for developing an oral treatment of macular degeneration. A drug candidate (BIO201 with 9'-cis-norbixin as the active principle ingredient is under development, and its potential will be assessed in a forthcoming clinical trial.

Reversal of blindness in animal models of leber congenital amaurosis using optimized AAV2-mediated gene transfer.

Science.gov (United States)

Bennicelli, Jeannette; Wright, John Fraser; Komaromy, Andras; Jacobs, Jonathan B; Hauck, Bernd; Zelenaia, Olga; Mingozzi, Federico; Hui, Daniel; Chung, Daniel; Rex, Tonia S; Wei, Zhangyong; Qu, Guang; Zhou, Shangzhen; Zeiss, Caroline; Arruda, Valder R; Acland, Gregory M; Dell'Osso, Lou F; High, Katherine A; Maguire, Albert M; Bennett, Jean

2008-03-01

We evaluated the safety and efficacy of an optimized adeno-associated virus (AAV; AAV2.RPE65) in animal models of the RPE65 form of Leber congenital amaurosis (LCA). Protein expression was optimized by addition of a modified Kozak sequence at the translational start site of hRPE65. Modifications in AAV production and delivery included use of a long stuffer sequence to prevent reverse packaging from the AAV inverted-terminal repeats, and co-injection with a surfactant. The latter allows consistent and predictable delivery of a given dose of vector. We observed improved electroretinograms (ERGs) and visual acuity in Rpe65 mutant mice. This has not been reported previously using AAV2 vectors. Subretinal delivery of 8.25 x 10(10) vector genomes in affected dogs was well tolerated both locally and systemically, and treated animals showed improved visual behavior and pupillary responses, and reduced nystagmus within 2 weeks of injection. ERG responses confirmed the reversal of visual deficit. Immunohistochemistry confirmed transduction of retinal pigment epithelium cells and there was minimal toxicity to the retina as judged by histopathologic analysis. The data demonstrate that AAV2.RPE65 delivers the RPE65 transgene efficiently and quickly to the appropriate target cells in vivo in animal models. This vector holds great promise for treatment of LCA due to RPE65 mutations.

Study on Difrarel protecting dark adaptation function in the patients with diabetic retinopathy

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Ying Hui

2017-03-01

Full Text Available AIM: To observe the change in full-field electroretinogram(ERGin patients with nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy(NPDRafter panretinal photocoagulation(PRP2d and 2mo, and evaluate the effects of Difrarel protecting dark adaptation function. METHODS: Fifty-five cases with NPDR were randomly divided into the observation group and the control group.Both groups were treated with panretinal photocoagulation.Difrarel tablets was added in the observation group,and Vitamin B was added in the control group. We administered these drugs to the patients for 2mo continuously and the changes in ERG were observed after 2d and 2mo treatment. The amplitude of wave b(bA, and the peak time of wave b(bTwere observed and the data were treated statistically with SPSS 20.0 and test t in pairs. RESULTS: The bT of the two groups before and at 2mo treatment had no difference inner group or inter-group(P>0.05. But there was obvious difference in bA of control group at 2mo after treatment compared with before treatment(PPCONCLUSION: The function of each layer of PDR's retina has been damaged obviously and cannot get well after PRP. The patients with diabetic retinopathy combined with Difrarel tablets and PRP can better restore vision and improve the dark adaptation function.

The Antagonistic Interaction of Cones in Human Eyes—a Pilot Study

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Jenny Chun-Yee Lung

2011-05-01

Full Text Available Multifocal electroretinogram (mfERG by Sutter (1992 provides a measuring tool of the retinal responses at different locations. Traditional mfERG stimulus at each base period is a pseudorandom m-sequence focal flash. By interleaving seven dark frames between the focal flashes, a slow-sequence stimulus can be formed to trigger retinal responses which are originated predominantly from the bipolar cells and inner retinal cells. In this study, the antagonistic interaction of cones in human eye was investigated by this slow-flash mfERG (sfmfERG under different colour stimuli (white and blue colour conditions. The N1, P1 and photopic negative response (PhNR of the sfmfERG were used to investigate the effect on the local retinal responses. It was found that the blue stimulus could trigger greater amplitudes of the N1, P1 and PhNR than the white stimulus did. In terms of the implicit time, the white stimulus would trigger P1 and PhNR with longer implicit time than the blue stimulus. White stimulus provides a broader spectrum signal than blue stimulus. The changes of cone responses from a broad to narrow spectrum stimulation may illustrate a decrease in the involvement of retinal antagonism and thus leads to an increase in amplitude and a decrease in implicit time.

High levels of retinal membrane docosahexaenoic acid increase susceptibility to stress-induced degenerations⃞

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Tanito, Masaki; Brush, Richard S.; Elliott, Michael H.; Wicker, Lea D.; Henry, Kimberly R.; Anderson, Robert E.

2009-01-01

The fat-1 gene cloned from C. elegans encodes an n-3 fatty acid desaturase that converts n-6 to n-3 PUFA. Mice carrying the fat-1 transgene and wild-type controls were fed an n-3-deficient/n-6-enriched diet [fat-1- safflower oil (SFO) and wt-SFO, respectively]. Fatty acid profiles of rod outer segments (ROS), cerebellum, plasma, and liver demonstrated significantly lower n-6/n-3 ratios and higher docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) levels in fat-1-SFO compared with wt-SFO. When mice were exposed to light stress: 1) the outer nuclear layer (ONL) thickness was reduced; 2) amplitudes of the electroretinogram (ERG) were lower; 3) the number of apoptotic photoreceptor cells was greater; and 4) modification of retinal proteins by 4-hydroxyhexenal (4-HHE), an end-product of n-3 PUFA oxidation was increased in both fat-1-SFO and wt mice fed a regular lab chow diet compared with wt-SFO. The results indicate a positive correlation between the level of DHA, the degree of n-3 PUFA lipid peroxidation, and the vulnerability of the retina to photooxidative stress. In mice not exposed to intense light, the reduction in DHA resulted in reduced efficacy in phototransduction gain steps, while no differences in the retinal morphology or retinal biochemistry. These results highlight the dual roles of DHA in cellular physiology and pathology. PMID:19023138

Melatonin signaling affects the timing in the daily rhythm of phagocytic activity by the retinal pigment epithelium.

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Laurent, Virgine; Sengupta, Anamika; Sánchez-Bretaño, Aída; Hicks, David; Tosini, Gianluca

2017-12-01

Earlier studies in Xenopus have indicated a role for melatonin in the regulation of retinal disk shedding, but the role of melatonin in the regulation of daily rhythm in mammalian disk shedding and phagocytosis is still unclear. We recently produced a series of transgenic mice lacking melatonin receptor type 1 (MT 1 ) or type 2 (MT 2 ) in a melatonin-proficient background and have shown that removal of MT 1 and MT 2 receptors induces significant effects on daily and circadian regulation of the electroretinogram as well as on the viability of photoreceptor cells during aging. In this study we investigated the daily rhythm of phagocytic activity by the retinal pigment epithelium in MT 1 and MT 2 knock-out mice. Our data indicate that in MT 1 and MT 2 knock-out mice the peak of phagocytosis is advanced by 3 h with respect to wild-type mice and occurred in dark rather than after the onset of light, albeit the mean phagocytic activity over the 24-h period did not change among the three genotypes. Nevertheless, this small change in the profile of daily phagocytic rhythms may produce a significant effect on retinal health since MT 1 and MT 2 knock-out mice showed a significant increase in lipofuscin accumulation in the retinal pigment epithelium. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Circadian rhythm in melatonin release as a mechanism to reinforce the temporal organization of the circadian system in crayfish.

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Mendoza-Vargas, Leonor; Báez-Saldaña, Armida; Alvarado, Ramón; Fuentes-Pardo, Beatriz; Flores-Soto, Edgar; Solís-Chagoyán, Héctor

2017-06-01

Melatonin (MEL) is a conserved molecule with respect to its synthesis pathway and functions. In crayfish, MEL content in eyestalks (Ey) increases at night under the photoperiod, and this indoleamine synchronizes the circadian rhythm of electroretinogram amplitude, which is expressed by retinas and controlled by the cerebroid ganglion (CG). The aim of this study was to determine whether MEL content in eyestalks and CG or circulating MEL in hemolymph (He) follows a circadian rhythm under a free-running condition; in addition, it was tested whether MEL might directly influence the spontaneous electrical activity of the CG. Crayfish were maintained under constant darkness and temperature, a condition suitable for studying the intrinsic properties of circadian systems. MEL was quantified in samples obtained from He, Ey, and CG by means of an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and the effect of exogenous MEL on CG spontaneous activity was evaluated by electrophysiological recording. Variation of MEL content in He, Ey, and CG followed a circadian rhythm that peaked at the same circadian time (CT). In addition, a single dose of MEL injected into the crayfish at different CTs reduced the level of spontaneous electrical activity in the CG. Results suggest that the circadian increase in MEL content directly affects the CG, reducing its spontaneous electrical activity, and that MEL might act as a periodical signal to reinforce the organization of the circadian system in crayfish.

Impact of application of bio-amniotic membrane immersed in 5-fluorouracil solution in trabeculectomy on rabbit retina

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Chenming Zhang

2013-01-01

Full Text Available Background : To observe the impact of application of bio-amniotic membrane immersed in 5-fluorouracil solution in trabeculectomy on the retina in a rabbit model. Materials and Methods : Healthy white New Zealand rabbits were randomly assigned into three groups with 20 in each group. Bio-amniotic membranes of 4 × 5 mm immersed in either physiological saline/water for 10 min, or 25 mg/mL 5-fluorouracil solution for 5 and 10 min, respectively, were applied on rabbit eyes during trabeculectomy. At 7, 14, 21, and 28 days of postoperation, five rabbits from each group were examined with electroretinogram (ERG. After being examined for eye pressure and bleb morphology, rabbits were sacrificed by air embolism and their retinas were collected and examined by transmission electron microscopy (TEM. In addition, 5-fluorouracil amount in bio-amniotic membranes was measured using high-performance liquid chromatography. Results: Each bio-amniotic membrane could absorb 59.004 μg and 75.828 μg 5-fluorouracil after being immersed in 5-fluorouracil solution for 5 and 10 min, respectively. Application of these bio-amniotic membranes in trabeculectomy could promote the formation of well-functioning bleb and maintain intraocular pressure, although it had no effect on retina structures as examined with ERG and TEM. Conclusion: Application of 5-FU soaked bio-amniotic membrane in rabbit eye trabeculectomy is effective and safe.

Elevated background noise in adult attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is associated with inattention.

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Bubl, Emanuel; Dörr, Michael; Riedel, Andreas; Ebert, Dieter; Philipsen, Alexandra; Bach, Michael; Tebartz van Elst, Ludger

2015-01-01

Inattention and distractibility are core symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Still the neuronal organization is largely unknown. Previously we studied the electrophysiological activity of a distinct neuronal network-the retina-and found no change in stimulus-driven neural activity in patients with ADHD. However there is growing evidence for an elevated non stimulus-driven neural activity, or neuronal background noise, as underlying pathophysiological correlate. To further examine the biological bases that might underlie ADHD and problems with inattention, we performed a new analysis to test the hypothesis of an elevated background noise as underlying neuronal correlate for ADHD and problems with inattention in humans. A direct measure of background noise in patients with ADHD has not been described yet. The retinal background noise was assessed based on pattern electroretinogram (PERG) data in 20 unmedicated ADHD patients and 20 healthy controls. The PERG is an electrophysiological measure for retinal ganglion cell function. ADHD severity was assessed by interview and questionnaire. Noise amplitude was significantly higher (138%) in patients with ADHD compared to the control group (p = 0.0047). Noise amplitude correlated significantly with psychometric measures for ADHD (CAARS) especially inattention (r = 0.44, p = 0.004). The data provide evidence that an elevated background noise is associated with symptoms of inattention in ADHD and support the use of therapeutic interventions that reduce noise and distraction in patients with ADHD.

Usher's syndrome--case report.

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Kwiecień, Sława; Sulak, Robert; Szaflik, Jerzy

2008-01-01

The aim of this study is to present a case of coincidence of sensorineural hearing loss with chronic recurrent bilateral cystoid macular oedema in a 32-year-old woman, who was admitted to the clinic for deterioration of visual acuity of four months' duration. The patient gave a history of hearing loss for 29 years. Visual field examination disclosed peripheral ring scotoma. Electrophysiological examination was performed: pattern visual evoked response was within normal limits and electroretinogram displayed diminished both photopic and scotopic response. As ophthalmoscopy demonstrated no pigment in the fundus of the eye, the findings were consisted with diagnosis of retinitis pigmentosis sine pigmento. The presence of loss of hearing indicated the necessity of performing the genetic examination for Usher's syndrome. In order to establish a final diagnosis of Usher's syndrome genetic examination must be performed, but family history is relevant. Early investigation for Usher's syndrome in children with sensorineural hearing impairment is of a great significance. The patient may develop symptoms of retinitis pigmentosa in second or even third decade of his life. The necessity of thorough investigation for detecting other systemic abnormalities should be emphasized. There is no effective treatment of this syndrome. A child with Usher's syndrome requires a comprehensive care of different medical specialties. Psychological, educational and sociological attitude is also of a great importance in the child development.

Protective Effect of Proanthocyanidins from Sea Buckthorn (Hippophae Rhamnoides L. Seed against Visible Light-Induced Retinal Degeneration in Vivo

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Yong Wang

2016-05-01

Full Text Available Dietary proanthocyanidins (PACs as health-protective agents have become an important area of human nutrition research because of their potent bioactivities. We investigated the retinoprotective effects of PACs from sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides L. seed against visible light-induced retinal degeneration in vivo. Pigmented rabbits were orally administered sea buckthorn seed PACs (50 and 100 mg/kg/day for 14 consecutive days of pre-illumination and seven consecutive days of post-illumination. Retinal function was quantified via electroretinography 7 days after light exposure. Retinal damage was evaluated by measuring the thickness of the full-thickness retina and outer nuclear layer 7 days after light exposure. Sea buckthorn seed PACs significantly attenuated the destruction of electroretinograms and maintained the retinal structure. Increased retinal photooxidative damage was expressed by the depletion of glutathione peroxidase and catalase activities, the decrease of total antioxidant capacity level and the increase of malondialdehyde level. Light exposure induced a significant increase of inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, TNF-α and IL-6 and angiogenesis (VEGF levels in retina. Light exposure upregulated the expression of pro-apoptotic proteins Bax and caspase-3 and downregulated the expression of anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-2. However, sea buckthorn seed PACs ameliorated these changes induced by light exposure. Sea buckthorn seed PACs mediated the protective effect against light-induced retinal degeneration via antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antiapoptotic mechanisms.

A Longitudinal Follow-Up Study of Saffron Supplementation in Early Age-Related Macular Degeneration: Sustained Benefits to Central Retinal Function

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M. Piccardi

2012-01-01

Full Text Available Objectives. In a previous randomized clinical trial (Falsini et al. (2010, it was shown that short-term Saffron supplementation improves retinal flicker sensitivity in early age-related macular degeneration (AMD. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether the observed functional benefits from Saffron supplementation may extend over a longer follow-up duration. Design. Longitudinal, interventional open-label study. Setting. Outpatient ophthalmology setting. Participants. Twenty-nine early AMD patients (age range: 55–85 years with a baseline visual acuity >0.3. Intervention. Saffron oral supplementation (20 mg/day over an average period of treatment of 14 (±2 months. Measurements. Clinical examination and focal-electroretinogram-(fERG- derived macular (18° flicker sensitivity estimate (Falsini et al. (2010 every three months over a followup of 14 (±2 months. Retinal sensitivity, the reciprocal value of the estimated fERG amplitude threshold, was the main outcome measure. Results. After three months of supplementation, mean fERG sensitivity improved by 0.3 log units compared to baseline values (P<0.01, and mean visual acuity improved by two Snellen lines compared to baseline values (0.75 to 0.9, P<0.01. These changes remained stable over the follow-up period. Conclusion. These results indicate that in early AMD Saffron supplementation induces macular function improvements from baseline that are extended over a long-term followup.

The combination of vestibular impairment and congenital sensorineural hearing loss predisposes patients to ocular anomalies, including Usher syndrome.

Science.gov (United States)

Kletke, S; Batmanabane, V; Dai, T; Vincent, A; Li, S; Gordon, K A; Papsin, B C; Cushing, S L; Héon, E

2017-07-01

The co-occurrence of hearing impairment and visual dysfunction is devastating. Most deaf-blind etiologies are genetically determined, the commonest being Usher syndrome (USH). While studies of the congenitally deaf population reveal a variable degree of visual problems, there are no effective ophthalmic screening guidelines. We hypothesized that children with congenital sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) and vestibular impairment were at an increased risk of having USH. A retrospective chart review of 33 cochlear implants recipients for severe to profound SNHL and measured vestibular dysfunction was performed to determine the ocular phenotype. All the cases had undergone ocular examination and electroretinogram (ERG). Patients with an abnormal ERG underwent genetic testing for USH. We found an underlying ocular abnormality in 81.81% (27/33) of cases; of which 75% had refractive errors, and 50% of those patients showed visual improvement with refractive correction. A total of 14 cases (42.42%; 14/33) had generalized rod-cone dysfunction on ERG suggestive of Usher syndrome type 1, confirmed by mutational analysis. This work shows that adding vestibular impairment as a criterion for requesting an eye exam and adding the ERG to detect USH increases the chances of detecting ocular anomalies, when compared with previous literature focusing only on congenital SNHL. © 2016 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Myosin7a deficiency results in reduced retinal activity which is improved by gene therapy.

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Pasqualina Colella

Full Text Available Mutations in MYO7A cause autosomal recessive Usher syndrome type IB (USH1B, one of the most frequent conditions that combine severe congenital hearing impairment and retinitis pigmentosa. A promising therapeutic strategy for retinitis pigmentosa is gene therapy, however its pre-clinical development is limited by the mild retinal phenotype of the shaker1 (sh1(-/- murine model of USH1B which lacks both retinal functional abnormalities and degeneration. Here we report a significant, early-onset delay of sh1(-/- photoreceptor ability to recover from light desensitization as well as a progressive reduction of both b-wave electroretinogram amplitude and light sensitivity, in the absence of significant loss of photoreceptors up to 12 months of age. We additionally show that subretinal delivery to the sh1(-/- retina of AAV vectors encoding the large MYO7A protein results in significant improvement of sh1(-/- photoreceptor and retinal pigment epithelium ultrastructural anomalies which is associated with improvement of recovery from light desensitization. These findings provide new tools to evaluate the efficacy of experimental therapies for USH1B. In addition, although AAV vectors expressing large genes might have limited clinical applications due to their genome heterogeneity, our data show that AAV-mediated MYO7A gene transfer to the sh1(-/- retina is effective.

Novel expression patterns of metabotropic glutamate receptor 6 in the zebrafish nervous system.

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Ying-Yu Huang

Full Text Available The metabotropic glutamate receptor 6 (mGluR6 or GRM6 belongs to the class III of the metabotropic glutamate receptor family. It is the only known mGluR that mediates direct synaptic transmission in the nervous system and is thought to mediate the ON-response in the ON-pathway of the vertebrate retina. Phylogenetic and gene structure analysis indicated that the zebrafish genome harbours two mglur6 paralogs, mglur6a and mglur6b. Besides expression in the inner nuclear layer and distinct regions in the brain, both mglur6 paralogs are expressed in ganglion cells of the retina, an expression pattern which can also be observed in the downstream effector molecules gnaoa and gnaob. This unexpected expression pattern is consistent with immunohistological labeling using a peptide antibody specific for the mGluR6b paralog. These expression patterns contradict the existing view that mGluR6 is solely located on ON-bipolar cells where it functions in signal transmission. Consistent with expression in ON-bipolar cells, we report a decreased b-wave amplitude in the electroretinogram after morpholino-based downregulation of mGluR6b, showing a function in the ON response. Our data suggest more widespread functions of mGluR6 mediated signaling in the central nervous system, possibly including sign reversing synapses in the inner retina.

Corpus callosum dysgenesis and lipoma: embryologic and magnetic resonance imaging aspects; Disgenesia do corpo caloso e lipoma: consideracoes embriologicas basicas e aspectos de imagem a ressonancia magnetica

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Abreu Junior, Luiz de; Borri, Maria Lucia; Wolosker, Angela Maria Borri; Hartmann, Luiz Guilherme de Carvalho; Galvao Filho, Mario de Melo [Hospital e Maternidade Sao Luiz, Sao Paulo, SP (Brazil). Setor de Diagnostico por Imagem]. E-mail: abreujr@directnet.com.br; D' Ippolito, Giuseppe [Hospital e Maternidade Sao Luiz, Sao Paulo, SP (Brazil). Setor de US/TC/RMN

2005-07-15

The corpus callosum is the major system of association fibers that permits communication of both cerebral hemispheres. Magnetic resonance imaging has improved the study of brain malformations, including the corpus callosum dysgenesis. Lipoma is a common finding in the spectrum of corpus callosum dysgenesis. The purpose of these study was to review the embryologic events and the magnetic resonance imaging aspects related to the corpus callosum dysgenesis and to the formation of the related lipoma. (author)

Planning new basic guideline to the radiological risk. Content, radiological criteria and implementation; Nueva direcctriz basica de planificacion ante el riesgo radiologico. Contenido, criterio radiologicos e implantacion

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Calvin Cuartero, M.; Vega Riber, R. de la; Martin Calvarro, J. M.

2011-07-01

The most important aspects of the Basic Guideline focus on their area of planning, groups of potential radiological emergencies in the type of activity associated with the levels of response planning and responsible organizations, structure and functions for each level, radiological criteria, implementation and maintenance of the effectiveness of the level of response plans abroad.

Confiabilidade da causa basica de obito por cancer entre Sistema de Informacoes sobre Mortalidade do Brasil e Registro de Cancer de Base Populacional de Goiania, Goias, Brasil

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Patricia Pereira Vasconcelos de Oliveira

2014-02-01

Full Text Available O presente estudo avaliou a confiabilidade das causas básicas de óbito por câncer por meio do relacionamento probabilístico entre Sistema de Informações sobre Mortalidade (SIM e Registro de Câncer de Base Populacional (RCBP de Goiânia, Goiás, Brasil, entre 2000 e 2005. Foi utilizado o RecLink III para o relacionamento e a confiabilidade foi avaliada pela utilização do coeficiente Kappa de Cohen e o ajustado por prevalência e viés discórdia marginal (prevalence- adjusted and bias-ajusted kappa – PABAK. Foram identificados 2.874 indivíduos no relacionamento para análise da confiabilidade. O kappa bruto variou de 0,336 a 0,846 e o ajustado por prevalência de 0,810 a 0,990 para os 14 grupos de neoplasias. Para os 35 principais cânceres, 12 (34,3% deles apresentaram valores de kappa bruto abaixo de 0,600 e PABAK de 0,981. Entre as principais neoplasias comuns entre os sexos, a concordância bruta variou em 0,672 e 0,790; a ajustada entre 0,894 e 0,961. Foram reclassificadas 67% de câncer de localização mal definida no SIM com as informações do RCBP. Este estudo mostrou-se útil para a qualificação das estimativas de mortalidade por câncer em áreas cobertas por RCBP.

Analisis experimental de la propagacion en redes de area corporal para la banda de ultra wideband. experimental characterization of the propagation in ultra wideband body area networks

Science.gov (United States)

Garcia Serna, Ruben Gregorio

Diferentes dispositivos capaces de obtener informacion sobre parametros fisiologicos, cinematicos o contextuales del cuerpo pueden interconectarse de manera inalambrica dando lugar a las denominadas Redes de Area Corporal Inalambricas (WBAN, Wireless Body Area Networks). De entre las posibles tecnologias para establecer los enlaces, Ultra Wideband (UWB) esta captando cada vez un mayor interes debido a caracteristicas tales como el bajo nivel de potencia de transmision requerido (bajo nivel de exposicion a campos electromagneticos), el alto ancho de banda disponible y la alta resolucion temporal/espacial. El diseno de sistemas centrados en el cuerpo requiere de modelos de canal que describan de manera precisa la propagacion de senales en este tipo de entornos. Esta tesis se plantea con el objetivo de contribuir al estudio experimental de la propagacion en sistemas centrados en el cuerpo operando en la banda UWB. En primer lugar, se presenta un marco introductorio a las redes WBAN, sus elementos constitutivos, bandas de frecuencia, estandarizacion y modelos de canal. Ademas, se introducen los fundamentos de la tecnologia UWB y sus aplicaciones en este area. Seguidamente, se analiza en terminos de las perdidas de propagacion y la dispersion de retardo la propagacion en el canal off-body entre un transmisor fijo y un dispositivo receptor colocado sobre la superficie del cuerpo de un sujeto. Se considera la influencia de diferentes aspectos, tales como el entorno de medidas, la posicion de colocacion de una antena sobre el cuerpo y la postura adoptada por un sujeto. Finalmente, se analiza el canal de propagacion in-body considerando el movimiento relativo entre dos dispositivos causado por efecto de la respiracion. Las condiciones de propagacion en el interior del cuerpo se emulan por medio de un phantom liquido para UWB y la caracterizacion se plantea tanto en frecuencia, en terminos del modelado de la forma y el ensanchamiento del espectro Doppler, como en tiempo, por

Nacionalismo, peronismo, comunismo: Los usos del totalitarismo en el discurso del Partido Socialista Argentino (1946-1953 Nacionalism, Peronism, Comunism: The uses of totalitarism in argentine Partido Socialista discourse (1946-1953

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Ricardo Martínez Mazzola

2011-06-01

Full Text Available Este artículo explora la prensa y las producciones de los dirigentes del Partido Socialista argentino con el objeto de dar cuenta de una de las líneas principales de su prédica: la representada por los distintos usos del término "totalitarismo". Se reconstruye cómo el uso del discurso "antitotalitario" permitió a la dirigencia del partido no sólo condenar, por su asociación con las experiencias europeas, al régimen nacido de la revolución del '43 y al gobierno peronista, sino también cuestionar, por su cercanía con el peronismo, a los comunistas y a los miembros del ala izquierda del mismo Partido Socialista. El recorrido se cierra hacia comienzos de los años cincuenta, momento en que los intelectuales socialistas producen las más densas caracterizaciones del peronismo como fenómeno "totalitario", y justo antes de que la clave "anti-totalitaria" comience a ser cuestionada por la militancia socialista, en particular la juvenil.This article explores the press and the publications of the leaders of the argentine Socialist Party in an effort to account for one of the principal lines of its ideological message: the one represented by the different uses of the term "totalitarianism". It reconstructs the way in which the "anti-totalitarian" discourse allowed the party leadership not only to condemn the regime originated in the revolution which took place in 1943 and the Peronist government which emerged from it by associating both directly with contemporary European experiences, but also to challenge the Communists and left-wing members of the Socialist Party, because of their proximity to Peronism. This ideological itinerary was all but exhausted by the beginning of the '50s, when socialist intellectuals produced their densest characterizations of Peronism as a "totalitarian" phenomenon and just before the"anti-totalitarian" agenda began to be challenged, by grass-roots socialist militants, and particularly by the youth sector of the

Revisión de los Árboles de Clasificación y Regresión (CART

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Juan Felipe Díaz Sepúlveda

2011-07-01

Full Text Available ResumenDependiendo del problema, el propósito básico de un estudio de clasificación puede ser producir una correcta clasificación o descubrir la estructura predictiva del problema. Si nuestro objetivo es lo último, entonces estamos tratando de entender qué variables o interacciones de variables describen el fenómeno, esto es, dar caracterizaciones simples de las condiciones que determinan cuándo un objeto está en una clase más que en otra. Los Árboles de Clasificación y Regresión, en inglés Classification and Regression Trees (CART, deben su desarrollo a L. Breiman, J. Friedman, R. Olshen y C. Stone, autores del libro del mismo nombre, publicado en 1984 [Breiman y otros, 1984]. El objetivo de este artículo es dar a conocer desde el punto de vista teórico en qué consiste esta técnica de clasificación.Palabras claves:Clasificador, partición, árbol de clasificación, árbol de regresión, nodo, hoja, impureza, validación cruzada.AbstractDepending on the problem, the basic purpose of a classification study may be to produce a correct classification or predictive discovering the structure of the problem If our goal is the latter, then we are trying to understand what variables or interactions of variables describing the phenomenon, that is, give simple characterizations of the conditions that determine when an object is In a class more than another. The Classification and Regression Trees, Classification and Regression English Trees (CART, owes its development to L Breiman, J. Friedman, R. Olshen and C Stone, who wrote the book of the same name, published in 1984 [Breiman et al, 1984]. The aim of this paper is to report from the theoretical point of view it is this classification technique.Key words:Sorter, partition, classification tree, regression tree, node, leaf, impurity, cross validation.

Online monitoring of accessories for underground electrical installations through acoustics emissions; Monitoreo en linea de accesorios de instalaciones electricas subterraneas mediante emisiones acusticas

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Casals-Torrens, P. [Universidad Politecnica de Cataluna, Barcelona (Espana)]. E-mail: p.casals@upc.edu; Gonzalez-Parada, A. [Universidad de Guanajuato, Guanajuato (Mexico)]. E-mail: gonzaleza@salamanca.ugto.mx; Bosch-Tous, R. [Universidad Politecnica de Cataluna, Barcelona (Espana)

2012-04-15

presente trabajo se presentan las pruebas de caracterizacion de los sensores EA por medio de pruebas comparativas de descargas parciales en accesorios para cables de energia subterranea.

Design and construction of a go-kart hybrid PEM fuel cell / rechargeable battery; Diseno y construccion de un go-kart hibrido pila de combustible PEM / bateria recargable

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Suarez Alcantara, Karina; Rodriguez Castellanos, Andres; Soloza Feria, Omar [Centro de Investigacion y de Estudios Avanzados del IPN, Mexico D.F. (Mexico)]. E-mail: k.suarez.alcantara@gmail.com

2008-11-15

An hybrid Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cell, PEMFC-Rechargeable Battery Go-kart has been designed and manufactured using AutoCAD software for the design and a CNC mechanical machine for the manufacture of components of the fuel cell. The membrane-electrode assemblies, MEAs, were integrated with a Gore-Select membrane and carbon cloth with Pt (20 wt % /C) 0.5 mg/cm{sup 2} anode and cathode electrode catalysts loading. High density graphite collector plates with 5mm thickness were used as collector plates. The estimated weigh of the go-kart with a driver is about 120 kg. The demand of the motor of the go-kart is 20 V and 5 A (100W), supplied by an hybrid system integrated by three 30Watts PEMFC. The commercially available Pb/acid rechargeable battery supplies energy for peripheral equipment. [Spanish] En este trabajo se presenta el diseno y la construccion de un go-kart hibrido pila de combustible con membrana de conduccion protonica tipo PEM (Proton Exchange Membrane, por sus siglas en ingles) y pila recargable. El diseno de los colectores de corriente de la pila se realizo utilizando el programa AutoCAD y la construccion mediante una fresadora con control numerico, CNC. Los ensambles membrana-electrocatalizador de la pila estan formados por membranas Gore-Select y por electrodos de Pt soportado en tela de carbon al 20 %peso/C con carga de 0.5 mg /cm{sup 2}, en anodo y catodo. Los platos colectores de corriente fueron manufacturados en grafito de alta densidad con espesor de 5 mm. La caracterizacion de la pila de combustible se realizo mediante ensayos de polarizacion potenciostatica. El peso total del go-kart y una persona a bordo es de 120 kg. La potencia del go-kart es generada por un motor de corriente directa de 20 V y 5 A (100 Watts). Para tal efecto, se construyeron tres pilas de combustible de 30 W cada una, con un respaldo de baterias recargables comerciales de Pb/acido para energizar equipos perifericos.

CARACTERIZACIÓN FENOLÓGICA DE BOSQUES TROPICALES CADUCIFOLIOS USANDO INFORMACIÓN ESPECTRAL: EXPERIMENTOS CON COMPONENTES

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Marcos Casiano

2014-10-01

Full Text Available La caracterización de la fenología de la vegetación, particularmente la asociada a los bosques tropicales caducifolios, permite predecir los impactos del cambio climático y de los intercambios de carbono y agua entre la atmósfera y la vegetación, por lo que es importante modelarla. Existen diferentes métodos experimentales para caracterizar la fenología de la vegetación, sin embargo, el uso de sensores remotos permite caracterizaciones fenológicas de bajo costo y eficientes. No obstante lo anterior, la mayoría de las aplicaciones de sensores remotos cuando se usan índices de vegetación (IV solo modelan el crecimiento del follaje (etapa vegetativa y senescente y no la etapa reproductiva. Dado que la floración es crítica para la viabilidad de la vegetación, además de su valor en la apicultura, es necesario evaluarla con sensores remotos aerotransportados en el segmento visible a infrarrojo del espectro electromagnético. La revisión de experimentos y observaciones de floración muestran que los patrones temporales en las bandas del rojo (R e infrarrojo cercano (IRC son contrarios, lo cual no ocurre en los IV que caracterizan el follaje. A partir de estos análisis, se diseñó un experimento de componentes de la vegetación para simular las etapas fenológicas de pre floración, floración y post floración que hipotéticamente ocurren en un bosque caducifolio. Los resultados mostraron que es posible el desarrollo de un modelo fenológico aproximado si se usa el índice IVIS para caracterizar la inducción floral, el inicio y el pico de la floración, aunque el término de ésta se confunde con el inicio del crecimiento vegetativo del follaje.

Characterization and heading of irradiated fuels and their chemical analogs; Caracterizacion y lixiviacion de combustibles nucleares irradiados y de sus analogos quimicos

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Serrano, J A [Ciemat.Madrid (Spain)

2000-07-01

This work presents results of leaching experiments under deionized water and under synthetic granite at room temperature in air using spent fuel (UO{sub 2} and MOX LWR fuels) and the chemical analogues, natural UO{sub 2} and SIMFUEL. The experimental conditions and procedure for irradiated and non-irradiated materials were kept similar as much as possible. Also dissolution behaviour studies of preoxidised LWR UO{sub 2} and MOX spent fuel up to different on the oxidation degree. For both fuel types, UO{sub 2} and MOX, the fission products considered showed a fractional release normalised to uranium higher than 1, due to either the larger inventory at preferential leaching zones, such as, grain boundaries or to the inherent higher solubility of some of these elements. In contrast to fission products, the fractional release of PU from the UO{sub 2} fuel was not affected by the oxidation level. Finally a thermodynamic study of the experimental leaching results obtained in this work was performed. (Author)

Turbulent Characterization of atmospheric surface layer over non-homogeneous terrain; Caracterizacion turbulenta de la capa superficial atmosferica en un terreno no homogeneo

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Artinano Rodriguez de Torres, B.

1989-07-01

About 15000 wind and temperature profiles from a 100 m tower located in CEDER (Soria, Spain) have been analyzed. Using profiles in close neutral conditions, two main parameters of surface layer were obtained. Results show a great dependence of these parameters (Z{sub 0} roughness length and u friction velocity) on flow conditions and terrain (tinctures. Difficulty finding neutral conditions in this type of terrain (gently rolling and scattered bush) and in this latitude , is also remarkable. (Author) 91 refs.

Synthesis and characterization of nanoparticles of nickel obtained by laser ablation; Sintesis y caracterizacion de nanoparticulas de niquel obtenidas por ablacion laser

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Aviles, R.; Escobar A, L.; Camps, E.; Santiago, P. [ININ, A.P. 18-1027, 11801 Mexico D.F. (Mexico); Ascencio, J.A.; Von, H. [Instituto Mexicano del Petroleo, Mexico D.F. (Mexico)

2002-07-01

The result of the formation of nickel nanoparticles by the laser ablation technique with a size less or equal to 1.3 nm is reported, also the formation of agglomerates of tens of nanometers is shown. Under the experimental conditions used a high particle density (around 10{sup 5} particles/{mu}m{sup 2}) is obtained. The stability of the particles in function of its atom quantity, for less or equal sizes to 2 nm is studied, finding that the most stable structure is the icosahedron. (Author)

Four contamination indexes for continental waters characterization. Formulation and application; Cuatro indices de contaminacion para caracterizacion de aguas continentales. Formulaciones y aplicacion

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Ramirez, A; Restrepo, R; Vina, G

1997-12-01

In this paper four indices of contamination, which qualify different water aspects are presents. Such indices allow for an overall assessment of the environmental status of the water bodies. These indices have been derived from accumulative experiences in hydro biological monitoring in the Colombian Petroleum industry for six years. Multivariable statistics was used. The indices were developed based on legislation from several countries, in accordance with the concentration of the different parameters and water usages. This indices of contamination (ICO) are: ICOMI (mineralization), ICOMO (organics contamination), ICOSUS (suspended solids) and ICOTRO (trophic system). The indices are easy to estimate (mathematically and/or graphically) and allow the identification the type of environmental problem, existing as demonstrated with examples and the near to zero correlations found. Thanks to the minimum number of variables, the application of these indices also diminishes monitoring and evaluation costs. In view of the advantages above mentioned is worth considering integrating the indices in to the national legislation.

Zoning and Geotechnical Characterization of soils from the port of Veracruz; Zonificacion y Caracterizacion geotecnica de los Suelos del Puerto de Veracruz

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Lenz, O.; Ochoa Sanchez, O. A.

2012-07-01

Describes the geological province that hosts the city of Veracruz and the morphological traits that resulted from the activity that preceded the Quaternary on the other hand, presents the geotechnical characteristics of the soil, which constitute the different deposits that make up the ground to throughout the length and breadth of the urban sprawl from Veracruz and urban areas, and then after, make a zoning proposal from the point of view geotechnical. (Author) 25 refs.

Characterization of the photon source linear accelerators for clinical use; Caracterizacion de la fuente de fotones de aceleradores lineales de uso clinico

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Gonzalez, W.; Lallena, A.

2011-07-01

Monte Carlo algorithms have become more accurate tool for calculating radiation doses. The simulation process is divided into two parts, first simulates the throttle spindle (independent simulation) and then applies a simplified algorithm for simulating the patient dependent. The aim of this paper is to describe the main features of the head, in order to develop a model of virtual sources from dosimetry data.

Characterization of sugar cane bagasse: part II: fluid dynamic characteristics; Caracterizacion del bagazo de la cana de azucar: parte II: caracteristicas fluidodinamicas

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Alarcon, Guillermo A. Roca [Universidad de Oriente (CEEFE/UO), Santiago de Cuba (Cuba). Centro de Estudios de Eficiencia Energetica], Emails: roca@ceefe.uo.edu.cu, grocabayamon@hotmail.com; Sanchez, Caio Glauco [Universidade Estadual de Campinas (FEM/UNICAMP), SP (Brazil). Fac. de Engenharia Mecanica], Email: caio@fem.unicamp.br; Gomez, Edgardo Olivares [Universidade Estadual de Campinas (NIPE/UNICAMP), SP (Brazil). Nucleo Interdisciplinar de Planejamento Energetico], Emails: gomez@bioware.com.br, egomez@energiabr.org.br; Cortez, Luis Augusto Barbosa [Universidade Estadual de Campinas (NIPE/FEAGRI/UNICAMP), SP (Brazil). Fac. de Engenharia Agricola. Nucleo Interdisciplinar de Planejamento Energetico], Email: cortez@reitoria.unicamp.br

2006-07-01

This paper is the second part of a general study about physic-geometrical and fluid-dynamics characteristic of the sugarcane bagasse particles. These properties has relevant importance on the dimensions and operation of the equipment for transport and treatment of solid particles. Was used the transport column method for the determination of the drag velocity and later on the drag coefficient of the sugarcane bagasse particles was calculated. Both, the installation and experimental technique used for materials of these characteristics are simple and innovations tools, but rigorous conceptually, thus the results obtained are reliable. Were used several sugarcane bagasse fractions of particles of known mean diameter. The properties determined were expressed as a function of Reynolds and Archimedes a dimensional criteria. The best considered model from statistical analysis (model from equation 8) was statistically validated for determined ranges of Reynolds and Archimedes. These empirical equations can be used to determine these properties in the range and conditions specified and also for modeling some processes where these fractions are employed. (author)

Synthesis and characterization of tetraphenylporphyrinate of dysprosium route dysprosium acetylacetonate.; Sintesis y caracterizacion de un porfirinato de disprosio via acetilacetonato de disprosio.

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Martinez M, V

1993-12-31

Dysprosium bis (tetraphenylporphyrinate) and bis (dysprosium) Tris (tetraphenylporphyrinate) were synthesized from dysprosium tetraphenylporphyrinate prepared in situ, and characterized by IR, UV-vis, TGA, DTA, EPR and magnetic susceptibility measurements. The double decker compound was obtained by direct oxidation of the HDy(TPP){sub 2} intermediate. The existence of the radical anion, (TPP){sup -} , in the double decker product was conformed by EPR spectrometry. Dysprosium monoporphyrinate was isolated and characterized by the same techniques. (Author).

Hydrodynamic characterization and molecular weight estimation of ultrasonically sheared DNA; Caracterizacion hidrodinamica y estimacion de pesos moleculares de DNA degradado por ultrasonidos

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Casal, J I; Garces, F; Garcia-Sacristan, A

1981-07-01

The sedimentation coefficients and intrinsic viscosities of ultrasonically sheared calf thymus DNA have been determined. The molecular weight estimation according to this parameters have been compared with the ones obtained from the electrophoretic migration rates based on the calibration proposed using the known molecular weight restriction fragments of X-ENA. (Author) 35 refs.

Synthesis by plasma and characterization of semiconductor compounds derived of polyacetylene; Sintesis por plasma y caracterizacion de compuestos semiconductores derivados del poliacetileno

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Vasquez, M.; Cruz, G. [ININ, 52045 Ocoyoacac, Estado de Mexico (Mexico); Timoshina, T. [ESIQIE-IPN, 07738 Mexico D.F. (Mexico); Olayo, R. [UAM-I, 09340 Mexico D.F. (Mexico)

2003-07-01

In this work it is made a study of the structure and electric properties of chlorate polyethylene (PE-CI) with double and simple bonds obtained by continuous plasma with resistive coupling to 13.5 MHz. The synthesis conditions are power between 10 and 14 W and pressure of (6-7) x 10{sup -2} Torr. The synthesized PE-Cl in that way is soluble in acetone what indicates that probably is formed of short chains and not it shows the generalized inter crossing that is presented in some syntheses by plasma and that it can degrade the electric properties of these polymers. The IR and XPS analysis show the vibration of the C-C, C=C and C-CI bonds. The morphology of the polymer after being dissolved shows a compact and flat configuration. The electric conductivity has an approximately lineal behavior in an interval of 35 to 90% of relative humidity. (Author)

Application of the Raman spectroscopy for the characterization of organic pesticides; Aplicacion de la espectroscopia Raman para la caracterizacion de pesticidas organicos

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Sato B, R.Y.; Medina G, C.; Medina V, J.; Frausto R, C. [Centro de Investigaciones en Optica, A.C., Unidad Aguascalientes, Prol. Constitucion 607, Reserva Loma Bonita, C.P. 20200, Aguascalientes (Mexico)]. e-mail: rsato@foton.cio.mx

2004-07-01

Raman spectra of organophosphate, organo chlorine and bipyridyl pesticides are presented in this study. They have been obtained satisfactorily by the NlR-Raman spectroscopy technique. Pesticides have been analyzed in solution or as a solid in glass containers and on aluminum substrates. This analytic technique can be an alternative tool for the detection of pesticides in the agriculture, presenting advantages as be quick, not destructive and require little or no sample preparation. Moreover, samples can be analyzed through transparent containers avoiding contact with the toxic substances. The implementation of the aluminium substrate is easy and practical. Moreover, it is commercially available and does not need a previous preparation. The analysis of a mixture of two pesticides in a {beta} carotene solution is shown. (Author) 25 refs., 8 figs.

Synthesis and characterization of carbon fibers obtained through plasma techniques; Sintesis y caracterizacion de fibras de carbono obtenidas mediante tecnicas de plasma

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Valdivia B, M

2005-07-01

The study of carbon, particularly the nano technology is a recent field, the one which has important implications in the science of new materials. It investigation is of great interest for industries producers of ceramic, metallurgy, electronic, energy storage, biomedicine, among others. The diverse application fields are a reason at national as international level, so that many works are focused in the production of nano fibers of carbon. The Thermal plasma applications laboratory (LAPT) of the National Institute of Nuclear Research (ININ), it is carrying out works about carbon nano technology. The present work has as purpose to carry out the synthesis and characterization of the carbon nano fibers which are obtained by electric arch of alternating current (CA) to high frequencies and by a plasma gun of non transferred arch, where are used hydrocarbons like benzene, methane, acetylene like carbon source and ferrocene, nickel, yttrium and cerium oxide like catalysts. For both techniques its were thought about a relationship among hydrocarbon-catalyst that it favored to the nano fibers production. The obtained product of each experiment outlined it was analyzed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD), analysis with those were obtained pictures and diffraction graphs, which were observed to arrive to one conclusion on the operation conditions, same analysis with those were characterized the tests carried out according to the nano structures formation of carbon. (Author)

SIGNIFICADOS Y EXPECTATIVAS QUE OTORGAN AL PROGRAMA DE INTEGRACION ESCOLAR, ALUMNOS Y ALUMNAS QUE ACTUALMENTE CURSAN OCTAVO BASICO EN SEIS ESCUELAS BASICAS MUNICIPALES DE LA COMUNA DE RANCAGUA

OpenAIRE

FLORES GONZALEZ, PAULA ANDREA

2012-01-01

El presente trabajo surge de la inquietud de conocer cómo perciben alumnos y alumnas con déficit cognitivo al Programa de Integración Escolar, quienes son parte de la diversidad en el aula conformando un subsistema en la educación chilena que comprende el vínculo con el rol docente y el rol de los compañeros. Esto nos permitirá conocer en profundidad las experiencias de vida del estudiante integrado que construye sus significados desde sus necesidades educativas especiales.

Factores que inciden en el habito de fumar de escolares de educación basica y media del Chile Factors affecting chilean elementary and high school children's smoking

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M. Daniza Ivanovic

1997-02-01

Full Text Available INTRODUCCIÓN: Considerando la indiscutible evidencia de los efectos adversos del tabaco, para la salud, millones de personas continúan fumando. La situación es de mayor gravedad, ya que muchos de estos fumadores y la mayoría de los nuevos fumadores, tanto en Chile, como en otros países, son adolescentes. Los objetivos de este estudio fueron determinar la prevalencia de tabaquismo en escolares chilenos y cuantificar el impacto relativo que ejercen factores socioeconómicos, socioculturales, familiares, de exposición a medios de comunicación de masas, demográficos, educacionales y psicosociales, sobre la prevalencia de tabaquismo. MATERIAL E MÉTODO: Se seleccionó una muestra aleatoria, representativa de 2.967 escolares de educación básica y media de la Región Metropolitana de Chile, proporcional de acuerdo al curso(IV, VI, y VIII año básico y I y IV año medio, sexo, tipo de colegio y área geográfica. La prevalencia de tabaquismo se determinó mediante un cuestionario autoadministrado. El nivel socioeconómico(NSE se midió por medio del método de Graffar modificado, midiéndose además, las condiciones familiares, la exposición a medios de comunicación de masas y factores psicosociales. El rendimiento escolar se determinó mediante un test de castellano y matemáticas, al mismo tiempo que se registraron otras variables educacionales. El análisis estadístico incluyó análisis de varianza, test de la t de Student y test de Scheffe para comparación de medias, correlación, regresión múltiple stepwise, chi-cuadrado y la metodología del enfoque de riesgo de OPS/OMS, para el cálculo del riesgo relativo simple (RR. RESULTADOS: La prevalencia de tabaquismo (10,6% aumentó significativamente con la edad, de 1,3% en los escolares menores de 13 años, a 15,4% y 36,9%, en los adolescentes entre 13-15 años y ³ 16 años, respectivamente (pINTRODUÇÃO: Considerando a indiscutível evidência dos efeitos adversos do fumo para a saúde, milhões de pessoas continuam fumando. A situação é de maior gravidade, já que muitos dos fumantes e a maioria dos novos fumantes, tanto no Chile, como em outros países, são adolescentes. Dicidiu-se realizar estudo com o objetivo de determinar a prevalência do tabagismo em escolares chilenos e quantificar o impacto de fatores socioeconômicos, socioculturais, familiares, de exposição aos meios de comunicaçao de massa, demográficos, educacionais e psicosociais. MATERIAL E MÉTODO: Foi selecionada uma amostra aleatória representativa e proporcional de 2.967 escolares de educação básica e média, na Região Metropolitana do Chile, de acordo com o grau do curso (IV, VI e VIII básico de I e IV medio, sexo, tipo de escola e área geográfica. A prevalência de tabagismo foi determinada por meio de questionário auto administrado. O nível socioeconômico (NSE foi avaliado pelo método de Graffar modificado determinando-se além das condições familiares, a exposicião aos meios de comunicação de massa e aos fatores psicosociais. O rendimento escolar foi determinado por um teste de idiomas e de matemáticas, além de outras variáveis educacionais. A análise estatística inclui análise de variância, teste "t" de Student e teste de Scheffe para comparar os médias, correlação, regressao múltipla, teste do qui-quadrado e o método de OPS/OMS para o cálculo de risco relativo(RR. RESULTADOS: A prevalência de tabagismo (10,6% aumentou significativamente com a idade de 1,3% nos escolares menores de 13 anos, a 15,4 a 36,9% nos adolescentes entre 13-15 anos e ³ 16 anos, respectivamente (p UNTRODUCTION: Despite the harmful effects of tobacco millions of people continue to smoke. Many of these smokers, including most news smokers, are adolescents - both in Chile and in other countries. This study sought to determine the prevalence of smoking among Chilean elementary and high school children and to quantify the relative impact of socioeconomic, socio-cultural, familial, mass media exposure, demographic, educational and psychosocial factors on smoking. MATERIAL AND METHOD: A representative sample of 2,967 elementary and high school children from Chile's Metropolitan Region were chosen at random, by grade (IV, VI, and VIII elementary school grades and I and IV high school grades, sex, type of school and geographical area. Prevalence of smoking was determined through an anonymous self-administered questionnaire. Socioeconomic status (SES was measured by means of Graffar's modified method and family conditions, mass media exposure and psychosocial factors were registered. Scholastic achievement was measured by a language and mathematics test and other educational variables were considered. Statistical procedures included analysis of variance, Student's test and Scheffe's test for comparison of means, correlation, stepwise multiple regression, chi-squared and PAHO/WHO risk approach methodology. RESULTS: Prevalence of smoking (10.6% increased significantly with age, from 1.3% in school children aged ³ 16 years, respectively (p< 0.001 and was higher in females than in males. Pleasure level (r= 0.499 p < 0.001, level of rebelliousness (r= 0.124 p < 0.0001, family recreation level (r=-0.131 p < 0.0001 and the percentage of school attendance (r=-0.118 p < 0.0001 were the independent variables with the greatest explanatory power in smoking variance (r²= 0.2860, but pleasure level was the variable with the greatest explanatory power in the explained variance (89.2% and with the greatest RR (34.3. The relative impact of the independent variables on smoking varied according to age, sex and SES. CONCLUSIONS: The result demonstrate that pleasure level, level of rebelliousness, family recreation lvel and the percentage of school attendance were the independent variables with the greatest explanatory power in smoking. These findings may be useful in the implementation of education and health policies with a view to the reduction of this serious public health risk factor.

Persistent Visual Aura following Catheter Ablation in a Patient with WPW Syndrome

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Shinichi Koyama

2007-01-01

Full Text Available We report a patient who has had persistent visual disturbances since she underwent catheter ablation to treat her Wolff-Parkinson-White (WPW syndrome. We examined her visual symptoms carefully and quantitatively by means of our newly developed method combining image-processing and psychophysics. We first simulated the patient’s visual symptoms using image-processing techniques. Since the simulation indicated that she would be very sensitive to the edges of the visual stimuli, we evaluated her sensitivity to the edges using psychophysics. The results indicated that she was hypersensitive to the clear-cut edges of the visual stimuli. Her visual symptoms were very similar to those of visual aura of migraine, rather than those of photosensitive epilepsy. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI and single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT, electroenchepalogram (EEG, and visual-evoked potentials (VEP in the patient were normal. No abnormalities in her fundus, visual field, or electroretinogram were found, either. Transesophageal echocardiography with bubble study indicated that she had a preexisting right-to-left shunt. We hypothesize that visual aura of migraine was triggered and made persistent by the catheter ablation in this patient. Although the relationship between migraine, catheter ablation, and right-to-left shunts is unknown, previous studies on the transcatheter closure of patent foramen ovale suggest a possible link between them. Catheter ablation in patients with migraine and preexisting shunts may lead to exacerbations in migraine symptoms.

Effect of high-intensity irradiation from dental photopolymerization on the isolated and superfused vertebrate retina.

Science.gov (United States)

Rassaei, Mohammad; Thelen, Martin; Abumuaileq, Ramzi; Hescheler, Jürgen; Lüke, Matthias; Schneider, Toni

2013-03-01

Light or electromagnetic radiation may damage the neurosensory retina during irradiation of photopolymerizing resinous materials. Direct and indirect effects of irradiation emitted from polymerisation curing light may represent a severe risk factor for the eyes and the skin of the lamp operators, as well as for the patient's oral mucosa. Bovine superfused retinas were used to record their light-evoked electroretinogram (ERG) as ex vivo ERGs. Both the a- and the b-waves were used as indicators for retinal damage on the functional level. The isolated retinas were routinely superfused with a standard nutrient solution under normoglycemic conditions (5 mM D-glucose). The change in the a- and b-wave amplitude and implicit time, caused by low and high intensity irradiation, was calculated and followed over time. From the results, it can be deduced that the irradiation from LED high-power lamps affects severely the normal physiological function of the bovine retina. Irradiations of 1,200 lx irreversibly damaged the physiological response. In part, this may be reversible at lower intensities, but curing without using the appropriate filter will bleach the retinal rhodopsin to a large extent within 20 to 40 s of standard application times. Constant exposure to intense ambient irradiation affects phototransduction (a-wave) as well as transretinal signalling. The proper use of the UV- and blue-light filtering device is highly recommended, and may prevent acute and long lasting damage of the neurosensory retina.

Androgens increase lws opsin expression and red sensitivity in male three-spined sticklebacks.

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Yi Ta Shao

Full Text Available Optomotor studies have shown that three-spined sticklebacks (Gasterosteus aculeatus are more sensitive to red during summer than winter, which may be related to the need to detect the red breeding colour of males. This study aimed to determine whether this change of red light sensitivity is specifically related to reproductive physiology. The mRNA levels of opsin genes were examined in the retinae of sexually mature and immature fish, as well as in sham-operated males, castrated control males, or castrated males implanted with androgen 11-ketoandrostenedione (11 KA, maintained under stimulatory (L16:D8 or inhibitory (L8:D16 photoperiods. In both sexes, red-sensitive opsin gene (lws mRNA levels were higher in sexually mature than in immature fish. Under L16:D8, lws mRNA levels were higher in intact than in castrated males, and were up-regulated by 11 KA treatment in castrated males. Moreover, electroretinogram data confirmed that sexual maturation resulted in higher relative red spectral sensitivity. Mature males under L16:D8 were more sensitive to red light than males under L8:D16. Red light sensitivity under L16:D8 was diminished by castration, but increased by 11 KA treatment. Thus, in sexually mature male sticklebacks, androgen is a key factor in enhancing sensitivity to red light via regulation of opsin gene expression. This is the first study to demonstrate that sex hormones can regulate spectral vision sensitivity.

Disease course of patients with unilateral pigmentary retinopathy.

Science.gov (United States)

Potsidis, Emorfily; Berson, Eliot L; Sandberg, Michael A

2011-11-29

To evaluate the change in ocular function by eye in patients with unilateral pigmentary retinopathy. Longitudinal regression was used to estimate mean exponential rates of change in Goldmann visual field area (V4e white test light) and in full-field electroretinogram (ERG) amplitudes to 0.5- and 30-Hz white flashes in 15 patients with unilateral pigmentary retinopathy. Snellen visual acuity was assessed case by case. Mean annual rates of change for the affected eyes were -4.9% for visual field area, -4.7% for ERG amplitude to 0.5-Hz flashes, and -4.6% for ERG amplitude to 30-Hz flashes. All three rates were faster than the corresponding age-related rates of change for the fellow normal eyes (P = 0.0006, P = 0.003, P = 0.03, respectively). An initial cone ERG implicit time to 30-Hz flashes in affected eyes ≥ 40 ms predicted a faster mean rate of decline of visual field area and of ERG amplitude to 0.5- and 30-Hz flashes (P 35 years of age than in patients presenting at a younger age (P = 0.0004). The affected eye in unilateral pigmentary retinopathy shows a progressive loss of peripheral retinal function that cannot be attributed to aging alone and that is faster in eyes with a more prolonged initial cone ERG implicit time. Patients presenting at >35 years of age are at greater risk for losing visual acuity.

Multifocal ERG wavelet packet decomposition applied to glaucoma diagnosis

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Rodríguez-Ascariz José M

2011-05-01

Full Text Available Abstract Background Glaucoma is the second-leading cause of blindness worldwide and early diagnosis is essential to its treatment. Current clinical methods based on multifocal electroretinography (mfERG essentially involve measurement of amplitudes and latencies and assume standard signal morphology. This paper presents a new method based on wavelet packet analysis of global-flash multifocal electroretinogram signals. Methods This study comprised twenty-five patients diagnosed with OAG and twenty-five control subjects. Their mfERG recordings data were used to develop the algorithm method based on wavelet packet analysis. By reconstructing the third wavelet packet contained in the fourth decomposition level (ADAA4 of the mfERG recording, it is possible to obtain a signal from which to extract a marker in the 60-80 ms time interval. Results The marker found comprises oscillatory potentials with a negative-slope basal line in the case of glaucomatous recordings and a positive-slope basal line in the case of normal signals. Application of the optimal threshold calculated in the validation cases showed that the technique proposed achieved a sensitivity of 0.81 and validation specificity of 0.73. Conclusions This new method based on mfERG analysis may be reliable enough to detect functional deficits that are not apparent using current automated perimetry tests. As new stimulation and analysis protocols develop, mfERG has the potential to become a useful tool in early detection of glaucoma-related functional deficits.

Clinical and electroretinographic findings of progressive retinal atrophy in miniature schnauzer dogs of South Korea.

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Jeong, Man Bok; Park, Shin Ae; Kim, Se Eun; Park, Young Woo; Narfström, Kristina; Seo, Kangmoon

2013-10-01

The purpose of the study was to describe the clinical and electroretinographic features of clinical cases of progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) in miniature schnauzer (MS) of South Korea. Sixty-six MS (14 normal and 52 affected) were included. All animals underwent routine ocular examinations. Electroretinogram (ERG) was recorded in the 14 normal and 15 affected dogs. For normal dogs, the mean age ± SD was 4.1 ± 2.4 years (1 to 9 years), and there were no ocular abnormalities on the basis of ocular examinations and ERG results. For the PRA-affected dogs, it was shown that the mean age ± SD was 4.3 ± 1.1 years (2 to 7 years), and 44 dogs (84.6%) were 3 to 5 years old. Most of the PRA-affected dogs had abnormal menace responses (98.1%) and pupillary light reflexes (PLRs, 88.5%); some dogs showed normal menace response (1.9%) and PLRs (11.5%). Ophthalmoscopic abnormalities in the affected group included one or more of the following changes: hyperreflectivity and discoloration of the tapetal area, attenuation of retinal vessels, depigmentation in non-tapetal area and optic disc atrophy. ERG in the affected dogs showed non-recordable responses in all cases tested with clinical signs of PRA. The present study showed that PRA in MS was mainly observed between the age of 3 to 5 years. ERG revealed abnormal rod and cone responses in affected dogs at the ages studied.

Novos conceitos em retinopatia diabética: dano neurológico versus dano vascular New concepts on diabetic retinopathy: neural versus vascular damage

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Pedro Durães Serrarbassa

2008-06-01

Full Text Available A retinopatia diabética é a principal causa de cegueira legal irreversível em adultos na idade produtiva. Estima-se que o número de pessoas com risco de desenvolver perda de visão decorrente do diabetes dobre nos próximos 30 anos. Alguns estudos sugerem que alterações neurodegenerativas ocorram antes do comprometimento vascular. Essas alterações incluem aumento da apoptose neural, reatividade de células gliais, ativação microglial e metabolismo alterado do glutamato, e podem explicar algumas das deficiências funcionais que ocorrem logo após o início do diabetes, como alterações precoces no eletrorretinograma. O presente artigo de revisão visa apresentar evidências atuais que apontem a neurodegeneração como possível evento inicial da retinopatia diabética.Diabetic retinopathy is the leading cause of irreversible legal blindness in working-age adults. The number of people worldwide at risk of developing vision loss from diabetes is predicted to double over the next 30 years. Some elements suggest that neurodegenerative changes occur beyond vascular damage. These changes include increased apoptosis, glial cell reactivity, microglial activation, and altered glutamate metabolism, and could explain some of the functional abnormalities that begin soon after the onset of diabetes, as early changes in electroretinogram. This review article will present some evidences that point out neurodegeneration as a possible initial event in diabetic retinopathy.

Salvage/Adjuvant Brachytherapy After Ophthalmic Artery Chemosurgery for Intraocular Retinoblastoma

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Francis, Jasmine H., E-mail: francij1@mskcc.org [Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York (United States); Barker, Christopher A.; Wolden, Suzanne L.; McCormick, Beryl; Segal, Kira; Cohen, Gil [Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York (United States); Gobin, Y. Pierre; Marr, Brian P. [Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York (United States); Weill-Cornell Medical College, New York-Presbyterian Hospital, New York, New York (United States); Brodie, Scott E. [Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York (United States); Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, New York (United States); Dunkel, Ira J.; Abramson, David H. [Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York (United States); Weill-Cornell Medical College, New York-Presbyterian Hospital, New York, New York (United States)

2013-11-01

Purpose: To evaluate the efficacy and toxicity of brachytherapy after ophthalmic artery chemosurgery (OAC) for retinoblastoma. Methods and Materials: This was a single-arm, retrospective study of 15 eyes in 15 patients treated with OAC followed by brachytherapy at (blinded institution) between May 1, 2006, and December 31, 2012, with a median 19 months' follow-up from plaque insertion. Outcome measurements included patient and ocular survival, visual function, and retinal toxicity measured by electroretinogram (ERG). Results: Brachytherapy was used as adjuvant treatment in 2 eyes and as salvage therapy in 13 eyes of which 12 had localized vitreous seeding. No patients developed metastasis or died of retinoblastoma. The Kaplan-Meier estimate of ocular survival was 79.4% (95% confidence interval 48.7%-92.8%) at 18 months. Three eyes were enucleated, and an additional 6 eyes developed out-of-target volume recurrences, which were controlled with additional treatments. Patients with an ocular complication had a mean interval between last OAC and plaque of 2.5 months (SD 2.3 months), which was statistically less (P=.045) than patients without ocular complication who had a mean interval between last OAC and plaque of 6.5 months (SD 4.4 months). ERG responses from pre- versus postplaque were unchanged or improved in more than half the eyes. Conclusions: Brachytherapy following OAC is effective, even in the presence of vitreous seeding; the majority of eyes maintained stable or improved retinal function following treatment, as assessed by ERG.