WorldWideScience

Sample records for fibra optica dopada

  1. Laser a fibra dopada com Érbio com múltiplos comprimentos de onda e múltiplos regimes de operação simultâneos

    OpenAIRE

    Cláudia Barros dos Santos

    2011-01-01

    Neste trabalho, fez-se a inserção de duas grades de difração matriciais com guias de onda, ou AWGs (Arrayed Waveguide Gratings) em uma cavidade laser de fibra dopada com Érbio, onde um único meio de ganho em temperatura ambiente pode gerar ação laser em múltiplos comprimentos de onda, com emissões simultâneas e controladas individualmente. A configuração utilizada permitiu o teste com diferentes regimes de operação simultâneos dentro da cavidade. Mostramos a possibilidade de emissão laser em ...

  2. Application of unimodal optic fiber to communications among electric substations; Aplicacion de fibra optica unimodal a comunicaciones entre subestaciones electricas

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Martinez Pinon, Fernando; Hernandez Juarez, Taide [Instituto de Investigaciones Electricas, Cuernavaca (Mexico)

    1992-07-01

    The utilization of the unimodal fiber optics technology in the electric power systems, represents one of the best communication options because of its multiple advantages, that results in a better coordination of the technical and administrative activities, needed to carry the electric energy from its generation site to the most remote locations. In this document a study, in accordance with the available options for the design of communication systems via unimodal optic fiber, is presented. With this technology, ties of more than 100 kilometers without the need of repeating stations, can be made. [Espanol] La utilizacion de la tecnologia de fibra optica unimodal en los sistemas electricos de potencia representa una de las mejores alternativas de comunicacion por sus multiples ventajas que se traducen en una mejor coordinacion de las acitividades tecnicas y administrativas necesarias para llevar la energia electrica desde el lugar de generacion hasta los puntos mas distantes. En este documento se presenta un estudio de acuerdo a las opciones disponibles para el diseno de sistemas de comunicacion por fibra optica unimodal. Con esta tecnologia se pueden realizar enlaces mayores que 100 km sin necesidad de repetidores.

  3. Amplificadores óticos híbridos de bomba única

    OpenAIRE

    Ângelo, Nara Elisa de Freitas Silva

    2012-01-01

    O presente trabalho consiste num estudo preliminar sobre a possibilidade de desenvolvimento de um amplificador ótico híbrido, composto por um amplificador de fibra dopada com érbio e um amplificador de Raman em fibra, bombeado por uma única fonte, o que poderá potenciar eventuais reduções de custos, quando comparado com amplificadores híbridos equivalentes de duas bombas. Os amplificadores de fibra dopada com érbio e de Reman são caracterizados individualmente. Para o amplificador híbrido,...

  4. Fiber-optic components for optical communicatios and sensing =

    Science.gov (United States)

    Marques, Carlos Alberto Ferreira

    Nos ultimos anos, a Optoelectronica tem sido estabelecida como um campo de investigacao capaz de conduzir a novas solucoes tecnologicas. As conquistas abundantes no campo da optica e lasers, bem como em comunicacoes opticas tem sido de grande importancia e desencadearam uma serie de inovacoes. Entre o grande numero de componentes opticos existentes, os componentes baseados em fibra optica sao principalmente relevantes devido a sua simplicidade e a elevada de transporte de dados da fibra optica. Neste trabalho foi focado um destes componentes opticos: as redes de difraccao em fibra optica, as quais tem propriedades opticas de processamento unicas. Esta classe de componentes opticos e extremamente atraente para o desenvolvimento de dispositivos de comunicacoes opticas e sensores. O trabalho comecou com uma analise teorica aplicada a redes em fibra e foram focados os metodos de fabricacao de redes em fibra mais utilizados. A inscricao de redes em fibra tambem foi abordado neste trabalho, onde um sistema de inscricao automatizada foi implementada para a fibra optica de silica, e os resultados experimentais mostraram uma boa aproximacao ao estudo de simulacao. Tambem foi desenvolvido um sistema de inscricao de redes de Bragg em fibra optica de plastico. Foi apresentado um estudo detalhado da modulacao acustico-optica em redes em fibra optica de silica e de plastico. Por meio de uma analise detalhada dos modos de excitacao mecanica aplicadas ao modulador acustico-optico, destacou-se que dois modos predominantes de excitacao acustica pode ser estabelecidos na fibra optica, dependendo da frequencia acustica aplicada. Atraves dessa caracterizacao, foi possivel desenvolver novas aplicacoes para comunicacoes opticas. Estudos e implementacao de diferentes dispositivos baseados em redes em fibra foram realizados, usando o efeito acustico-optico e o processo de regeneracao em fibra optica para varias aplicacoes tais como rapido multiplexador optico add-drop, atraso de grupo

  5. TECNOLOGIA A FIBRA OPTICA: UNIVERSIDAD NACIONAL DE COLOMBIA SEDE MEDELLIN, "UN REFERENTE LATINOAMERICANO"

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    RODRIGO ACUÑA

    2008-01-01

    Full Text Available En este artículo se muestran algunos resultados de las investigaciones realizadas por el grupo de Fotónica y Opto-electrónica de la Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Sede Medellín. Se hace una breve reseña de la creación del grupo y se describen las principales aplicaciones desarrolladas, las cuales convierten al grupo en un referente Latinoamericano en el área. Se ilustran aplicaciones de las redes de Bragg en fibra óptica en sensores, simulaciones computacionales de guías de onda ópticas y la construcción de fuentes de luz láser a fibra óptica.

  6. Spectrum of pediatric neuromyelitis optica.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Lotze, Timothy E; Northrop, Jennifer L; Hutton, George J; Ross, Benjamin; Schiffman, Jade S; Hunter, Jill V

    2008-11-01

    Our goal was to describe the spectrum of clinical phenotypes, laboratory and imaging features, and treatment in pediatric patients with neuromyelitis optica. The study consisted of a retrospective chart review of patients followed in a pediatric multiple sclerosis center with a diagnosis of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder. Nine patients with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders were included, all of whom were female. There were 4 black children, 2 Latin American children, 2 white children, and 1 child of mixed Latin American/white heritage. Median age at initial attack was 14 years (range: 1.9-16 years). Median disease duration was 4 years (range: 0.6-9 years). Tests for neuromyelitis optica immunoglobulin G were positive for 7 patients. Eight patients had transverse myelitis and optic neuritis, and 1 patient had longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis without optic neuritis but had a positive neuromyelitis optica immunoglobulin G antibody titer. Cerebral involvement on MRI was found in all subjects, 5 of whom were symptomatic with encephalopathy, seizures, hemiparesis, aphasia, vomiting, or hiccups. Immunosuppressive therapy reduced attack frequency and progression of disability. Pediatric neuromyelitis optica has a diverse clinical presentation and may be difficult to distinguish from multiple sclerosis in the early stages of the disease. The recognition of the broad spectrum of this disease to include signs and symptoms of brain involvement is aided by the availability of a serum biomarker: neuromyelitis optica immunoglobulin G. Early diagnosis and immunosuppresive treatment may help to slow the accumulation of severe disability.

  7. Elaboración y caracterización estructural de fibras de tereftalato de polietileno (PET) dopadas con nanocobre (0) utilizando proceso de extrusión

    OpenAIRE

    Guzman, A.; Cárcamo, H.; León, O.

    2015-01-01

    El presente estudio describe la elaboración y caracterización de una fibra sintética bactericida compuesta por Tereftalato de Polietileno reciclado (rPET) y nanopartículas de cobre (0), mediante un proceso de extrusión utilizando una extrusora monohusillo. Las nanopartículas empleadas fueron elaboradas utilizando radiación microondas y ultrasonido. Para la elaboración de la fibra se produce un masterbatch de rPET con polvo de cobre nanométrico empleando un solvente de alto punto de fusión (tr...

  8. Progressive cerebral atrophy in neuromyelitis optica.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Warabi, Yoko; Takahashi, Toshiyuki; Isozaki, Eiji

    2015-12-01

    We report two cases of neuromyelitis optica patients with progressive cerebral atrophy. The patients exhibited characteristic clinical features, including elderly onset, secondary progressive tetraparesis and cognitive impairment, abnormally elevated CSF protein and myelin basic protein levels, and extremely highly elevated serum anti-AQP-4 antibody titer. Because neuromyelitis optica pathology cannot switch from an inflammatory phase to the degenerative phase until the terminal phase, neuromyelitis optica rarely appears as a secondary progressive clinical course caused by axonal degeneration. However, severe intrathecal inflammation and massive destruction of neuroglia could cause a secondary progressive clinical course associated with cerebral atrophy in neuromyelitis optica patients. © The Author(s), 2015.

  9. Neuromyelitis optica: a diffusional kurtosis imaging study.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Doring, T M; Lopes, F C R; Kubo, T T A; Tukamoto, G; Kimura, M C; Strecker, R M; Domingues, R C; Gasparetto, E L

    2014-12-01

    Conventional MR imaging typically yields normal images of the brain or indicates lesions in areas of high aquaporin expression in patients with neuromyelitis optica. Diffusional kurtosis imaging was applied in patients with neuromyelitis optica to determine whether this technique could detect alterations in diffusion and diffusional kurtosis parameters in normal-appearing white matter and to explore the relationship between diffusional kurtosis imaging and DTI parameters. Thirteen patients with neuromyelitis optica and 13 healthy controls underwent MR imaging of the brain with conventional and diffusional kurtosis imaging sequences. Tract-based spatial statistics and region-of-interest-based analyses were conducted to identify differences between patients with neuromyelitis optica and controls through conventional DTI and diffusional kurtosis imaging parameters. The parameters were correlated to determine the potential relationship between them. Compared with healthy controls, several diffusional kurtosis imaging and DTI parameters were altered in various fiber tracts of patients with neuromyelitis optica (P optica. We found a negative correlation between diffusional kurtosis imaging (radial kurtosis, axial kurtosis, mean kurtosis) and the corresponding DTI parameters (radial diffusivity, axial diffusivity, mean diffusivity). Positive correlations were found for radial kurtosis and mean kurtosis with fractional anisotropy. This study demonstrated differences in conventional diffusion and diffusional kurtosis parameters, especially radial kurtosis, in the normal-appearing white matter of patients with neuromyelitis optica compared with healthy controls. Larger studies of patients with neuromyelitis optica should be performed to assess the potential clinical impact of these findings. © 2014 by American Journal of Neuroradiology.

  10. Neuromyelitis optica in a young child with positive serum autoantibody

    OpenAIRE

    Loma, Ingrid P.; Asato, Miya R.; Filipink, Robyn A.; Alper, Gulay

    2008-01-01

    Relapsing neuromyelitis optica is rare in children. The identification of highly specific serum autoantibody marker (neuromyelitis optica –immunoglobulin G) differentiates neuromyelitis optica from other demyelinating disorders particularly in clinically challenging cases. We present a child with multiple episodes of transverse myelitis and optic neuritis with positive neuromyelitis optica-immunoglobulin G titers consistent with a diagnosis of relapsing neuromyelitis optica. Serial titers of ...

  11. Neuromyelitis Optica Immunoglobulin G in a Child

    OpenAIRE

    Hudson, Lynsee A.; Bernard, Timothy J.; Tseng, Brian S.; Miller, Bradford R.; Corboy, John R.

    2006-01-01

    Neuromyelitis optica or Devic’s syndrome is an uncommon demyelinating disorder that preferentially attacks the spinal cord and optic nerves. Although it is well described in adults, childhood neuromyelitis optica has rarely been reported in the literature and is frequently misdiagnosed as severe multiple sclerosis. Recently, a serum immunoglobulin G test for neuromyelitis optica has become available which may clarify and accelerate the diagnosis. This report describes a child with recurrent m...

  12. Neuromyelitis Optica Lesion Mimicking Brainstem Glioma

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    J Gordon Millichap

    2007-12-01

    Full Text Available A 12-year-old girl who presented with weakness of the left extremities and right sided sixth cranial nerve palsy had neuromyelitis optica (NMO mistaken for brainstem glioma on MRI, in a report from Brain Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine,Seoul, Republic of KoreaNeuromyelitis Optica, Optic-Spinal Syndrome, Spectroscopy.

  13. Longitudinally extensive optic neuritis in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Pula, John H; Kattah, Jorge C; Keung, Bonnie; Wang, Huaping; Daily, Jennifer

    2014-10-15

    Neuomyelitis optica, sarcoid, and multiple sclerosis can all cause optic neuritis. Further means of distinguishing the causes of optic neuritis among these etiologies would be valuable for the clinician. This is a retrospective, cohort study from a single university based hospital and neuro-ophthalmology clinic. Blinded interpretation of orbit MRIs was performed on patients with acute optic neuritis from multiple sclerosis (n=25), sarcoid (n=5) and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (n=6). A length of >40 mm anterior visual pathway enhancement distinguished neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder from multiple sclerosis (p=0.0376). No statistically significant differences were found for presence of pain or papillitis, however there was a trend for bilateral involvement and chiasmal involvement in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder compared to multiple sclerosis. In acute optic neuritis, enhancing anterior visual pathway lesion length >40 mm helps differentiate neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder from multiple sclerosis. This degree of involvement can be considered longitudinally extensive optic neuritis. Further characterization is necessary as this degree of enhancement occurs in other clinical syndromes besides neuromyelitis optica. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  14. INTRODUCTION TO ACTA OPTICA SINICA

    Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China (English)

    2003-01-01

    Acta Optica Sinica is a scientific periodical on optics,sponsored by Chinese Optical Society, jointly undertaken by Shanghai Institute of Optics and Fine Mechanics,Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics and Physics,the Chinese Academy of Sciences, monthly,first published in 1981. The chief editor is Professor Xu Zhizhan, Academician of the Chinese Academy of Sciences. Now Acta Optica Sinica is a source periodical of the following international index periodicals: SA,CA,EI and PЖ.

  15. Aquaporin 4 and neuromyelitis optica

    Science.gov (United States)

    Papadopoulos, Marios C; Verkman, A S

    2013-01-01

    Neuromyelitis optica is an inflammatory demyelinating disorder of the CNS. The discovery of circulating IgG1 antibodies against the astrocyte water channel protein aquaporin 4 (AQP4) and the evidence that AQP4-IgG is involved in the development of neuromyelitis optica revolutionised our understanding of the disease. However, important unanswered questions remain—for example, we do not know the cause of AQP4-IgG-negative disease, how astrocyte damage causes demyelination, the role of T cells, why peripheral AQP4-expressing organs are undamaged, and how circulating AQP4-IgG enters neuromyelitis optica lesions. New drug candidates have emerged, such as aquaporumab (non-pathogenic antibody blocker of AQP4-IgG binding), sivelestat (neutrophil elastase inhibitor), and eculizumab (complement inhibitor). Despite rapid progress, randomised clinical trials to test new drugs will be challenging because of the small number of individuals with the disorder. PMID:22608667

  16. Brain MRI lesions in neuromyelitis optica: clinical case; Lesiones cerebrales de resonancia magnetica en neuromielitis optica: caso clinico

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Rosales Bravo, Luis Guillermo; Heyden Cordero, Marvin; Chinchilla Weinstok, Dennis; Mendelewicz Goldwaig, Isaias, E-mail: neurologia.cima@gmail.com [Caja Costarricense del Seguro Social, Hospital Mexico, Div. de Neurologia, San Jose (Costa Rica)

    2011-10-15

    Many cases of patients with neuromyelitis optica have submitted without demyelinating lesions in the cerebral white matter, it has documented that this entity can cause from the onset of illness or through its natural evolution. Diagnostic methods currently as Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and specific antibodies in plasma (such as antiaquaporin-4) have been diagnosed of neuromyelitis optica cases that were initially confused with multiple sclerosis. Disease in Costa Rica has been little prevalent and is not exactly known what the prevalence and incidence. The degree of disorder is illustrated through a case study, both in the cerebral white matter as spinal cord, in a patient with neuromyelitis optica during a follow-up period of 4 years. This is the first case that has been reported in the scientific literature of Costa Rica. (author) [Spanish] Muchos casos de pacientes con neuromielitis optica se han presentado sin lesiones desmielinizantes en la sustancia blanca cerebral, se ha documentado que esta entidad puede causarlas desde el inicio de la enfermedad o a traves de su evolucion natural. Los metodos de diagnostico en la actualidad como la Imagen por Resonancia Magnetica (IRM) y la determinacion de anticuerpos especificos en plasma (como la antiaquaporina-4) han logrado diagnosticar algunos casos de neuromielitis optica que inicialmente fueron confundidos con esclerosis multiple. La enfermedad en Costa Rica ha sido poco prevalente y no se ha conocido con exactitud cual es la prevalencia e incidencia. El grado de afeccion ha sido ilustrado a traves de un caso clinico, tanto en la sustancia blanca cerebral como espinal, en un paciente con neuromielitis optica durante un periodo de seguimiento de 4 anos. Este es el primer caso que ha sido reportado en la literatura cientifica de Costa Rica. (autor)

  17. Neuromyelitis optica-like pathology is dependent on type I interferon response.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Khorooshi, Reza; Wlodarczyk, Agnieszka; Asgari, Nasrin; Owens, Trevor

    2013-09-01

    Neuromyelitis optica is an antibody-mediated autoimmune inflammatory disease of the central nervous system. Reports have suggested that interferon beta which is beneficial for multiple sclerosis, exacerbates neuromyelitis optica. Our aim was to determine whether type I interferon plays a role in the formation of neuromyelitis optica lesions. Immunoglobulin G from a neuromyelitis optica patient was injected intracerebrally with human complement to type I interferon receptor deficient and wildtype mice. Loss of aquaporin-4 and glial fibrillary acidic protein was reduced in type I interferon receptor deficient mice brain. Our findings suggest that type I interferon signaling contributes to neuromyelitis optica pathogenesis. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  18. Neuromyelitis optica with onset in childhood and adolescence.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Fragoso, Yara Dadalti; Ferreira, Maria L B; Oliveira, Enedina M L; Domingues, Renan B; Ribeiro, Taysa A G J; Brooks, Joseph B B; Claudino, Rinaldo; Netto, Jussara M K; Gomes, Sidney; Adoni, Tarso; Carneiro, Denise S D; Fonseca, Daiana R P; Fragomeni, Manuela O; Oliveira, Francisco T M; Oliveira, Celso L S; Saldanha, Patricia C O; Souza, Jorge M B

    2014-01-01

    Neuromyelitis optica with onset before the age of 18 years is a relatively rare, yet potentially devastating condition. The objective of the present study was to contribute to the study of early-onset neuromyelitis optica with a case series. Data were collected from medical records of Brazilian neurologists caring for patients with neuromyelitis optica occurring in childhood and adolescence. Twenty-nine patients with neuromyelitis optica occurring before the age of 18 years and fulfilling the diagnostic criteria were identified. The average age at disease onset was 13 years and the patients had had an average disease duration of 6 years. The expanded disability scale score at the latest consultation was, on average, 4.7, and one patient had died from the disease. The 29 patients had had an average 4.5 relapses during the disease, accounting for 0.75 relapses per year, irrespective of the medication used. All patients were using one or more of the following medications: azathioprine, prednisone, immunoglobulin, and glatiramer acetate. Neuromyelitis optica with onset in childhood and adolescence is a poorly understood condition that is often disabling and difficult to manage. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  19. Gray Matter Volume Reduction Is Associated with Cognitive Impairment in Neuromyelitis Optica.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Wang, Q; Zhang, N; Qin, W; Li, Y; Fu, Y; Li, T; Shao, J; Yang, L; Shi, F-D; Yu, C

    2015-10-01

    Whether gray matter impairment occurs in neuromyelitis optica is a matter of ongoing debate, and the association of gray matter impairment with cognitive deficits remains largely unknown. The purpose of this study was to investigate gray matter volume reductions and their association with cognitive decline in patients with neuromyelitis optica. This study included 50 patients with neuromyelitis optica and 50 sex-, age-, handedness-, and education-matched healthy subjects who underwent high-resolution structural MR imaging examinations and a battery of cognitive assessments. Gray matter volume and cognitive differences were compared between the 2 groups. The correlations of the regional gray matter volume with cognitive scores and clinical variables were explored in the patients with neuromyelitis optica. Compared with healthy controls (635.9 ± 51.18 mL), patients with neuromyelitis optica (602.8 ± 51.03 mL) had a 5.21% decrease in the mean gray matter volume of the whole brain (P optica affected the frontal and temporal cortices and the right thalamus (false discovery rate correction, P optica (Alphasim correction, P optica had impairments in memory, information processing speed, and verbal fluency (P optica and is associated with cognitive impairment and disease severity in this group. © 2015 by American Journal of Neuroradiology.

  20. Relapse of Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder Associated with Intravenous Lidocaine

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Akiyuki Uzawa

    2011-01-01

    Full Text Available Lidocaine unmasks silent symptoms and eases neuropathic pain in multiple sclerosis patients; however, the effects of lidocaine in neuromyelitis optica have never been reported. We describe the case of a 59-year-old Japanese woman with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder who developed optic neuritis 1 day after intravenous lidocaine injection for treating allodynia. Her symptom seemed to result from a relapse of neuromyelitis optica induced by lidocaine administration, and not because of the transient effects of intravenous lidocaine administration. The possibility that lidocaine administration results in relapse of neuromyelitis optica due to its immunomodulating effects cannot be ruled out.

  1. Prolonged Remission in Neuromyelitis Optica Following Cessation of Rituximab Treatment.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Weinfurtner, Kelley; Graves, Jennifer; Ness, Jayne; Krupp, Lauren; Milazzo, Maria; Waubant, Emmanuelle

    2015-09-01

    Neuromyelitis optica is an autoimmune disease characterized by acute episodes of transverse myelitis and optic neuritis. Several small, open-label studies suggest rituximab, a monoclonal antibody against CD20, prevents relapses in neuromyelitis optica; however, there is little consensus on timing or duration of treatment. Here we report four patients with severe relapsing neuromyelitis optica who were stabilized on rituximab and, after discontinuing treatment, continued to experience prolonged remission of their disease. Remission ranged from 4.5 to 10.5 years total, including 3 to 9 years off all therapies. The patients had sustained clinical responses despite normal B-lymphocyte levels and, in at least 2 patients, continued seropositivity for aquaporin-4 antibodies. These cases suggest that rituximab may induce prolonged remission in certain neuromyelitis optica patients, and they highlight the need for further elucidation of rituximab's mechanism in neuromyelitis optica. © The Author(s) 2014.

  2. Trigeminal root entry zone involvement in neuromyelitis optica and multiple sclerosis.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Sugiyama, Atsuhiko; Mori, Masahiro; Masuda, Hiroki; Uchida, Tomohiko; Muto, Mayumi; Uzawa, Akiyuki; Ito, Shoichi; Kuwabara, Satoshi

    2015-08-15

    Trigeminal root entry zone abnormality on brain magnetic resonance imaging has been frequently reported in multiple sclerosis patients, but it has not been investigated in neuromyelitis optica patients. Brain magnetic resonance imaging of 128 consecutive multiple sclerosis patients and 46 neuromyelitis optica patients was evaluated. Trigeminal root entry zone abnormality was present in 11 (8.6%) of the multiple sclerosis patients and two (4.3%) of the neuromyelitis optica patients. The pontine trigeminal root entry zone may be involved in both multiple sclerosis and neuromyelitis optica. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  3. Detection of anti-aquaporin-4 autoantibodies in the sera of Chinese neuromyelitis optica patients

    Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China (English)

    Miao Li; Weiheng Su; Jie Wang; Francesco Pisani; Antonio Frigeri; Tonghui Ma

    2013-01-01

    In this study, we recruited 10 neuromyelitis optica patients, two multiple sclerosis patients and two myelitis patients. Chinese hamster lung fibroblast (V79) cells transfected with a human aquaporin-4-mCherry fusion protein gene were used to detect anti-aquaporin-4 antibody in neuromyelitis optica patient sera by immunofluorescence. Anti-aquaporin-4 autoantibody was stably detected by immunofluorescence in neuromyelitis optica patient sera exclusively. The sensitivity of the assay for neuromyelitis optica was 90% and the specificity for neuromyelitis optica was 100%. The anti-aquaporin-4 antibody titers in sera were tested with serial dilutions until the signal disappeared. A positive correlation was detected between Expanded Disability Status Scale scores and serum anti-aquaporin-4 antibody titers. The anti-aquaporin-4 antibody assay is highly sensitive and specific in the sera of Chinese neuromyelitis optica patients. Detection of aquaporin-4 autoantibody is important for the diagnosis and treatment of neuromyelitis optica.

  4. Detection of anti-aquaporin-4 autoantibodies in the sera of Chinese neuromyelitis optica patients.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Li, Miao; Su, Weiheng; Wang, Jie; Pisani, Francesco; Frigeri, Antonio; Ma, Tonghui

    2013-03-15

    In this study, we recruited 10 neuromyelitis optica patients, two multiple sclerosis patients and two myelitis patients. Chinese hamster lung fibroblast (V79) cells transfected with a human aquaporin-4-mCherry fusion protein gene were used to detect anti-aquaporin-4 antibody in neuromyelitis optica patient sera by immunofluorescence. Anti-aquaporin-4 autoantibody was stably detected by immunofluorescence in neuromyelitis optica patient sera exclusively. The sensitivity of the assay for neuromyelitis optica was 90% and the specificity for neuromyelitis optica was 100%. The anti-aquaporin-4 antibody titers in sera were tested with serial dilutions until the signal disappeared. A positive correlation was detected between Expanded Disability Status Scale scores and serum anti-aquaporin-4 antibody titers. The anti-aquaporin-4 antibody assay is highly sensitive and specific in the sera of Chinese neuromyelitis optica patients. Detection of aquaporin-4 autoantibody is important for the diagnosis and treatment of neuromyelitis optica.

  5. Detection of anti-aquaporin-4 autoantibodies in the sera of Chinese neuromyelitis optica patients★

    Science.gov (United States)

    Li, Miao; Su, Weiheng; Wang, Jie; Pisani, Francesco; Frigeri, Antonio; Ma, Tonghui

    2013-01-01

    In this study, we recruited 10 neuromyelitis optica patients, two multiple sclerosis patients and two myelitis patients. Chinese hamster lung fibroblast (V79) cells transfected with a human aquaporin-4-mCherry fusion protein gene were used to detect anti-aquaporin-4 antibody in neuromyelitis optica patient sera by immunofluorescence. Anti-aquaporin-4 autoantibody was stably detected by immunofluorescence in neuromyelitis optica patient sera exclusively. The sensitivity of the assay for neuromyelitis optica was 90% and the specificity for neuromyelitis optica was 100%. The anti-aquaporin-4 antibody titers in sera were tested with serial dilutions until the signal disappeared. A positive correlation was detected between Expanded Disability Status Scale scores and serum anti-aquaporin-4 antibody titers. The anti-aquaporin-4 antibody assay is highly sensitive and specific in the sera of Chinese neuromyelitis optica patients. Detection of aquaporin-4 autoantibody is important for the diagnosis and treatment of neuromyelitis optica. PMID:25206717

  6. Imaging Surrogates of Disease Activity in Neuromyelitis Optica Allow Distinction from Multiple Sclerosis.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Matthews, Lucy; Kolind, Shannon; Brazier, Alix; Leite, Maria Isabel; Brooks, Jonathan; Traboulsee, Anthony; Jenkinson, Mark; Johansen-Berg, Heidi; Palace, Jacqueline

    2015-01-01

    Inflammatory demyelinating lesions of the central nervous system are a common feature of both neuromyelitis optica and multiple sclerosis. Despite this similarity, it is evident clinically that the accumulation of disability in patients with neuromyelitis optica is relapse related and that a progressive phase is very uncommon. This poses the question whether there is any pathological evidence of disease activity or neurodegeneration in neuromyelitis optica between relapses. To investigate this we conducted a longitudinal advanced MRI study of the brain and spinal cord in neuromyelitis optica patients, comparing to patients with multiple sclerosis and controls. We found both cross-sectional and longitudinal evidence of diffusely distributed neurodegenerative surrogates in the multiple sclerosis group (including thalamic atrophy, cervical cord atrophy and progressive widespread diffusion and myelin water imaging abnormalities in the normal appearing white matter) but not in those with neuromyelitis optica, where localised abnormalities in the optic radiations of those with severe visual impairment were noted. In addition, between relapses, there were no new silent brain lesions in the neuromyelitis optica group. These findings indicate that global central nervous system neurodegeneration is not a feature of neuromyelitis optica. The work also questions the theory that neurodegeneration in multiple sclerosis is a chronic sequela to prior inflammatory and demyelinating pathology, as this has not been found to be the case in neuromyelitis optica where the lesions are often more destructive.

  7. Brain MRI lesions in neuromyelitis optica: clinical case

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Rosales Bravo, Luis Guillermo; Heyden Cordero, Marvin; Chinchilla Weinstok, Dennis; Mendelewicz Goldwaig, Isaias

    2011-01-01

    Many cases of patients with neuromyelitis optica have submitted without demyelinating lesions in the cerebral white matter, it has documented that this entity can cause from the onset of illness or through its natural evolution. Diagnostic methods currently as Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and specific antibodies in plasma (such as antiaquaporin-4) have been diagnosed of neuromyelitis optica cases that were initially confused with multiple sclerosis. Disease in Costa Rica has been little prevalent and is not exactly known what the prevalence and incidence. The degree of disorder is illustrated through a case study, both in the cerebral white matter as spinal cord, in a patient with neuromyelitis optica during a follow-up period of 4 years. This is the first case that has been reported in the scientific literature of Costa Rica. (author) [es

  8. Imaging Surrogates of Disease Activity in Neuromyelitis Optica Allow Distinction from Multiple Sclerosis.

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Lucy Matthews

    Full Text Available Inflammatory demyelinating lesions of the central nervous system are a common feature of both neuromyelitis optica and multiple sclerosis. Despite this similarity, it is evident clinically that the accumulation of disability in patients with neuromyelitis optica is relapse related and that a progressive phase is very uncommon. This poses the question whether there is any pathological evidence of disease activity or neurodegeneration in neuromyelitis optica between relapses. To investigate this we conducted a longitudinal advanced MRI study of the brain and spinal cord in neuromyelitis optica patients, comparing to patients with multiple sclerosis and controls. We found both cross-sectional and longitudinal evidence of diffusely distributed neurodegenerative surrogates in the multiple sclerosis group (including thalamic atrophy, cervical cord atrophy and progressive widespread diffusion and myelin water imaging abnormalities in the normal appearing white matter but not in those with neuromyelitis optica, where localised abnormalities in the optic radiations of those with severe visual impairment were noted. In addition, between relapses, there were no new silent brain lesions in the neuromyelitis optica group. These findings indicate that global central nervous system neurodegeneration is not a feature of neuromyelitis optica. The work also questions the theory that neurodegeneration in multiple sclerosis is a chronic sequela to prior inflammatory and demyelinating pathology, as this has not been found to be the case in neuromyelitis optica where the lesions are often more destructive.

  9. A population-based study of neuromyelitis optica in Caucasians

    DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

    Asgari, N; Lillevang, S T; Skejoe, H P B

    2011-01-01

    Epidemiologic studies have suggested different prevalence of neuromyelitis optica (NMO) in different ethnic groups. However, data on the incidence and prevalence of NMO in Caucasians are scarce.......Epidemiologic studies have suggested different prevalence of neuromyelitis optica (NMO) in different ethnic groups. However, data on the incidence and prevalence of NMO in Caucasians are scarce....

  10. [A treatment of neuromyelitis optica (Devic's disease) during pregnancy].

    Science.gov (United States)

    Daouda, Moussa Toudou; Obenda, Norlin Samuel; Assadeck, Hamid; Camara, Diankanagbe; Djibo, Fatimata Hassane

    2016-01-01

    Neuromyelitis optica (Devic's disease) is an inflammatory demyelinating disease of the central nervous system that mainly affects spinal cord, optic nerve and brain regions with high aquaporin 4 antigen expression. This is a severe autoimmune disease caused by autoantibodies directed against aquaporin 4 and associated with high morbidity and mortality. Unlike other inflammatory conditions such as multiple sclerosis or rheumatoid polyarthritis, pregnancy does not seem to influence the activity of neuromyelitis optica, hence the need for a thorough treatment during pregnancy. Corticosteroid therapy is the treatment of choice for neuromyelitis optica during pregnancy. Other treatments may also be used including rituximab, some immunosuppressive agents and immunoglobulins. Immunosuppressive treatment or rituximab is recommended when the long-term corticosteroid treatment is contraindicated, in case of inefficiency or if side effects are intolerable. Immunoglobulins are administered to patients with serious outbreaks of neuromyelitis optica which do not respond to bolus methylprednisolone. Immunoglobulins alone can also be continued at a dose of 0.4 g/kg/day for 6-8 weeks until delivery. Plasmapheresis is also a good alternative to bolus methylprednisolone when outbreaks are extremely severe.

  11. Clinical evaluation of rituximab treatment for neuromyelitis optica.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Fernández-Megía, M J; Casanova-Estruch, B; Pérez-Miralles, F; Ruiz-Ramos, J; Alcalá-Vicente, C; Poveda-Andrés, J L

    2015-10-01

    Neuromyelitis optica is an inflammatory and usually relapsing demyelinating autoimmune disease of the central nervous system that targets the optic nerves and spinal cord. Rituximab has been used for different neurological diseases that are probably immune-mediated or involving humoural immunity. The objective of this study is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of rituximab as treatment for neuromyelitis optica in a tertiary hospital. Retrospective study of patients with neuromyelitis optica treated with rituximab 1000mg on days 1 and 15, repeated every 6 to 8 months. We recorded EDSS score, relapse rate, overall condition, CD19+ count, presence of anti-NMO antibodies, and possible adverse reactions. Six patients were treated; all were women with a median age of 46 years (range, 38-58). Anti-NMO antibodies were detected in 3 patients (50%). Baseline EDSS was 4 (range 2.0-5.5). Two patients had previously been treated with an immunomodulatory drug. Median time from the first rituximab infusion to first relapse was 3.7 years (range 1.7-6.9). Two patients had infusion reactions after the first dose of rituximab. Four patients remained relapse-free and their EDSS score did not progress during rituximab treatment, one patient showed no clinical improvement, and one patient could not be evaluated. Rituximab can be considered an attractive therapeutic alternative for patients with neuromyelitis optica as there are no approved treatments for this disease. Further studies with rituximab are needed to establish the role of this drug in treating neuromyelitis optica. Copyright © 2013 Sociedad Española de Neurología. Published by Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

  12. Neuromyelitis Optica and Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder Patients in Turkish Cohort: Demographic, Clinical, and Laboratory Features.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Altintas, Ayse; Karabudak, Rana; Balci, Belgin P; Terzi, Murat; Soysal, Aysun; Saip, Sabahattin; Tuncer Kurne, Asli; Uygunoglu, Ugur; Nalbantoglu, Mecbure; Gozubatik Celik, Gokcen; Isik, Nihal; Celik, Yahya; Gokcay, Figen; Duman, Taskin; Boz, Cavit; Yucesan, Canan; Mangan, Mehmet Serhat; Celebisoy, Nese; Diker, Sevda; Colpak Isikay, Ilksen; Kansu, Tulay; Siva, Aksel

    2015-10-01

    Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) is an immune-mediated, chronic relapsing, inflammatory disease characterized by severe attacks of optic neuritis and myelitis. To determine the demographic, clinical, and laboratory features; antibody status; and treatment modalities of patients with NMO and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders in a Turkish cohort from 11 centers. A total of 182 patients were included in this study. Data on age at disease onset, sex, type of attacks, clinical presentation, analysis of cerebrospinal fluid, serum antiaquaporin-4 antibody status, annual progression index, and medical and family histories were collected. Mean age was 38.43±12.40 years (range, 13 to 75 y), and mean age at disease onset was 31.29±12.40 years (median, 29 y; range, 10 to 74 y). In NMO group, the rate of NMO immunoglobulin (Ig)G positivity was 62.5%. The annual progression index was significantly higher in the longitudinally extending spinal cord lesion. The mean Expanded Disability Status Scale score was higher in the late than early-onset NMO group. Our results revealed a lower rate of NMO IgG positivity, more severe disability in patients with NMO/neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders presenting with either transverse myelitis or late-onset NMO, and no correlation between disability and NMO IgG status.

  13. Imaging Differences between Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorders and Multiple Sclerosis: A Multi-Institutional Study in Japan.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Tatekawa, H; Sakamoto, S; Hori, M; Kaichi, Y; Kunimatsu, A; Akazawa, K; Miyasaka, T; Oba, H; Okubo, T; Hasuo, K; Yamada, K; Taoka, T; Doishita, S; Shimono, T; Miki, Y

    2018-05-03

    Both clinical and imaging criteria must be met to diagnose neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders and multiple sclerosis. However, neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders are often misdiagnosed as MS because of an overlap in MR imaging features. The purpose of this study was to confirm imaging differences between neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders and MS with visually detailed quantitative analyses of large-sample data. We retrospectively examined 89 consecutive patients with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (median age, 51 years; range, 16-85 years; females, 77; aquaporin 4 immunoglobulin G-positive, 93%) and 89 with MS (median age, 36 years; range, 18-67 years; females, 68; relapsing-remitting MS, 89%; primary-progressive MS, 7%; secondary-progressive MS, 2%) from 9 institutions across Japan (April 2008 to December 2012). Two neuroradiologists visually evaluated the number, location, and size of all lesions using the Mann-Whitney U test or the Fisher exact test. We enrolled 79 patients with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders and 87 with MS for brain analysis, 57 with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders and 55 with MS for spinal cord analysis, and 42 with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders and 14 with MS for optic nerve analysis. We identified 911 brain lesions in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders, 1659 brain lesions in MS, 86 spinal cord lesions in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders, and 102 spinal cord lesions in MS. The frequencies of periventricular white matter and deep white matter lesions were 17% and 68% in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders versus 41% and 42% in MS, respectively (location of brain lesions, P optica spectrum disorders (cervical versus thoracic, 29% versus 71%), whereas they were equally distributed in MS (46% versus 54%). Furthermore, thoracic lesions were significantly longer than cervical lesions in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders ( P = .001), but not in MS ( P = .80). Visually detailed

  14. Neuromyelitis optica-like pathology is dependent on type I interferon response

    DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

    Khorooshi, Reza; Wlodarczyk, Agnieszka; Asgari, Nasrin

    2013-01-01

    Neuromyelitis optica is an antibody-mediated autoimmune inflammatory disease of the central nervous system. Reports have suggested that interferon beta which is beneficial for multiple sclerosis, exacerbates neuromyelitis optica. Our aim was to determine whether type I interferon plays a role in ...

  15. Pediatric familial neuromyelitis optica in two sisters with long term follow-up.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Chuquilin, Miguel; Mullaguri, Naresh; Weinshenker, Brian

    2016-07-01

    Neuromyelitis optica causes bilateral optic neuritis and longitudinal extensive transverse myelitis. Although usually sporadic, 3% of cases of neuromyelitis optica are familial. The interval over which attacks continue and the long term prognosis for pediatric-onset neuromyelitis optica are not well defined. We describe two patients with pediatric familial neuromyelitis optica with the longest clinical follow-up of a pediatric case reported in the literature to our knowledge. One woman developed blindness with bilateral eye involvement within a few weeks at age 3. This was followed by transverse myelitis with paraparesis at age 19 leading to diagnosis of neuromyelitis optica. Her serum anti-aquaporin 4 antibody was later found to be positive. She continued with sporadic myelitis-related relapses but remained ambulant until age 40 when she had a more severe relapse. There was evidence of longitudinal extensive T2 hyperintensity in the thoracic spinal cord. Her sister also developed blindness at age 3.5 followed by myelitis 1year later with multiple relapses of gait impairment until her death from pneumonia at age 21. These patients represent the rare occurrence of neuromyelitis optica in children within the same family and show that this disease can have prolonged periods of remission but a continued tendency to relapse, supporting the need for lifelong immunosuppression. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  16. Individualized rituximab treatment for relapsing neuromyelitis optica: a pediatric case report.

    Science.gov (United States)

    He, Dian; Yu, YunLi; Yan, WeiBo; Dai, QingQing; Xu, Zhu; Chu, Lan

    2014-08-01

    Neuromyelitis optica is an autoimmune inflammatory disorder of the central nervous system. Current therapeutic approaches are based on small uncontrolled trials, case series, or case reports. There are only a few case reports describing rituximab for pediatric neuromyelitis optica. A 7-year-old girl with neuromyelitis optica had high disease activity with recurrent myelitis and steroid dependence. A remarkable increase of CD19(+) B-cell count in the peripheral blood mononuclear cells and seropositivity for anti-aquaporin 4 antibody were detected at each attack. After induction therapy with rituximab, the CD19(+) B-cell number was significantly reduced and sustained at low levels. The level of serum anti-aquaporin 4 antibody normalized. She was relapse-free over 1-year follow-up period. An individualized maintenance therapy scheme is underway. Treatment with rituximab for relapsing neuromyelitis optica requires an individualized regimen to optimize the frequency and dosage of administration to maximize efficacy yet minimize overtreatment and cost. Personal levels of CD19(+) B cells in peripheral blood mononuclear cells at previous attacks and responsiveness to rituximab in induction therapy may be two useful indicators in establishing individualized maintenance therapy schemes for relapsing neuromyelitis optica. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  17. Paucity of natural killer and cytotoxic T cells in human neuromyelitis optica lesions

    Science.gov (United States)

    Saadoun, Samira; Bridges, Leslie R.; Verkman, A. S.; Papadopoulos, Marios C.

    2013-01-01

    Neuromyelitis optica is a severe inflammatory demyelinating disease of the central nervous system. Most patients with neuromyelitis optica have circulating immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies against the astrocytic water channel protein aquaporin-4 (AQP4), which are pathogenic. Anti-AQP4 IgG-mediated complement-dependent astrocyte toxicity is a key mechanism of central nervous system damage in neuromyelitis optica, but the role of natural killer and cytotoxic T cells is unknown. Our objective was to determine whether natural killer and cytotoxic T cells play a role in human neuromyelitis optica lesions. We immunostained four actively demyelinating lesions, obtained from patients with anti-AQP4 IgG positive neuromyelitis optica, for Granzyme B and Perforin. The inflammatory cells were perivascular neutrophils, eosinophils and macrophages, with only occasional Granzyme B+ or Perforin + cells. Greater than 95% of inflamed vessels in each lesion had no surrounding Granzyme B+ or Perforin + cells. Granzyme B+ or Perforin+ cells were abundant in human spleen (positive control). Although natural killer cells produce central nervous system damage in mice injected with anti-AQP4 IgG, our findings here indicate that natural killer-mediated and T cell-mediated cytotoxicity are probably not involved in central nervous system damage in human neuromyelitis optica. PMID:23108041

  18. Neuromyelitis optica and multiple sclerosis

    DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

    Bennett, J. L.; de Seze, J.; Lana-Peixoto, M.

    2015-01-01

    Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) is an inflammatory autoimmune disease of the central nervous system that preferentially targets the optic nerves and spinal cord. The clinical presentation may suggest multiple sclerosis (MS), but a highly specific serum autoantibody against the astrocytic water channel...

  19. Neuromyelitis optica in an adolescent after bone marrow transplantation.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Baumer, Fiona M; Kamihara, Junne; Gorman, Mark P

    2015-01-01

    Central nervous system complications of bone marrow transplant are a common occurrence and the differential diagnosis is quite broad, including opportunistic infections, medications toxicities, graft versus host disease, and other autoimmune processes. We summarize previously reported cases of autoimmune myelitis in post-transplant patients and discuss a 17-year-old boy who presented with seronegative neuromyelitis optica after a bone marrow transplant for acute myeloid leukemia. Our patient had a marked improvement in symptoms after plasmapheresis. Including our patient, there have been at least eight cases of post-transplant autoimmune myelitis presented in the literature, and at least three of these are suspicious for neuromyelitis optica. Several of these patients had poor outcomes with persistent symptoms after the myelitis. Autoimmune processes such as neuromyelitis optica should be carefully considered in patients after transplant as aggressive treatment like early plasmapheresis may improve outcomes. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  20. Non-linear absorption for concentrated solar energy transport

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Jaramillo, O. A; Del Rio, J.A; Huelsz, G [Centro de Investigacion de Energia, UNAM, Temixco, Morelos (Mexico)

    2000-07-01

    In order to determine the maximum solar energy that can be transported using SiO{sub 2} optical fibers, analysis of non-linear absorption is required. In this work, we model the interaction between solar radiation and the SiO{sub 2} optical fiber core to determine the dependence of the absorption of the radioactive intensity. Using Maxwell's equations we obtain the relation between the refractive index and the electric susceptibility up to second order in terms of the electric field intensity. This is not enough to obtain an explicit expression for the non-linear absorption. Thus, to obtain the non-linear optical response, we develop a microscopic model of an harmonic driven oscillators with damp ing, based on the Drude-Lorentz theory. We solve this model using experimental information for the SiO{sub 2} optical fiber, and we determine the frequency-dependence of the non-linear absorption and the non-linear extinction of SiO{sub 2} optical fibers. Our results estimate that the average value over the solar spectrum for the non-linear extinction coefficient for SiO{sub 2} is k{sub 2}=10{sup -}29m{sup 2}V{sup -}2. With this result we conclude that the non-linear part of the absorption coefficient of SiO{sub 2} optical fibers during the transport of concentrated solar energy achieved by a circular concentrator is negligible, and therefore the use of optical fibers for solar applications is an actual option. [Spanish] Con el objeto de determinar la maxima energia solar que puede transportarse usando fibras opticas de SiO{sub 2} se requiere el analisis de absorcion no linear. En este trabajo modelamos la interaccion entre la radiacion solar y el nucleo de la fibra optica de SiO{sub 2} para determinar la dependencia de la absorcion de la intensidad radioactiva. Mediante el uso de las ecuaciones de Maxwell obtenemos la relacion entre el indice de refraccion y la susceptibilidad electrica hasta el segundo orden en terminos de intensidad del campo electrico. Esto no es

  1. Obtenção de nanocompósitos, nanodiamante sobre fibra de carbono e nanotubo de carbono sobre fibra de carbono

    OpenAIRE

    Leonardo Iusuti de Medeiros

    2009-01-01

    A proposta desta dissertação é a obtenção de dois compósitos nanoestruturados que sejam constituídos um por nanodiamante sobre fibra de carbono e, o outro, por nanotubo de carbono sobre a fibra de carbono. Em ambos os compósitos as fibras de carbono usadas são obtidas com três diferentes índices de grafitização 1000, 1500 e 2000°C. As fibras de carbono apresentam uma grande área superficial devido a sua estrutura. Quando utilizadas como substrato para crescimento de materiais nanoestruturados...

  2. Hypertrophic pachymeningitis accompanying neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder: A case report.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Kon, Tomoya; Nishijima, Haruo; Haga, Rie; Funamizu, Yukihisa; Ueno, Tatsuya; Arai, Akira; Suzuki, Chieko; Nunomura, Jin-ichi; Baba, Masayuki; Takahashi, Toshiyuki; Tomiyama, Masahiko

    2015-10-15

    We report a case of idiopathic cerebral hypertrophic pachymeningitis accompanying neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder. No other identifiable cause of pachymeningitis was detected. Corticosteroid therapy was effective for both diseases. Hypertrophic pachymeningitis is closely related to autoimmune inflammatory disease of the central nervous system. This case supports the hypothesis that hypertrophic pachymeningitis can be a rare comorbidity of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder. Copyright © 2015. Published by Elsevier B.V.

  3. Immunology of neuromyelitis optica during pregnancy.

    OpenAIRE

    Bove, Riley; Davoudi, V; Keyhanian, K; Bove, RM; Chitnis, T

    2016-01-01

    Anti-aquaporin-4 (AQP4) autoantibody plays a key role in the pathogenesis of neuromyelitis optica (NMO). Studies have shown increased relapse rates in patients with NMO during pregnancy and postpartum. High estrogen levels during pregnancy can increase act

  4. Imaging the Visual Pathway in Neuromyelitis Optica

    OpenAIRE

    Pfueller, Caspar F.; Paul, Friedemann

    2011-01-01

    The focus of this paper is to summarize the current knowledge on visual pathway damage in neuromyelitis optica (NMO) assessed by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and optical coherence tomography (OCT).

  5. Cognitive impairment in Chinese neuromyelitis optica

    NARCIS (Netherlands)

    Zhang, N.; Li, Y.J.; Fu, Y.; Shao, J.H.; Luo, L.L.; Yang, L.; Shi, F.D.; Liu, Y.

    2015-01-01

    Background: Cognitive dysfunction is frequently seen in neuromyelitis optica (NMO). However, the features and influencing factors of cognitive impairment of Chinese NMO patients are unclear. Objective: To investigate the patterns of cognitive impairment in Chinese NMO patients, and correlate the

  6. Neuromyelitis optica antibody in Leber hereditary optic neuropathy: case report

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Luciano Mesquita Simão

    2012-08-01

    Full Text Available Neuromyelitis optica antibody (or aquaporin-4 antibody is a well stablished serum marker associated to high-risk neuromyelitis optica syndrome that presents as an inflammatory demyelinating disease characterized by the occurrence of bilateral and simultaneous optic neuritis without complete visual recovery or it occurs as an isolated episode of transverse myelitis accompanied by longitudinally extensive spinal cord lesions. On the other hand, Leber hereditary optic neuropathy is a primarily hereditary disorder that affects all tissues of the body and its clinical presentation is tissue-specific for the optic nerve and, eventually, it might reach the spinal cord. Overlapping clinical features of neuromyelitis optica and Leber hereditary optic neuropathy may suggest common target organ diseases. The case report described herein emphasizes the coexistence of serum markers of both diseases, and suggests that further investigation of this challenging clinical presentation is warranted to confirm or rule out this association.

  7. Diagnostik og behandling af neuromyelitis optica

    DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

    Nielsen, Helle Hvilsted; Ravnborg, Mads; Illes, Zsolt

    2014-01-01

    Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) is an inflammatory demyelinating disease characterized by antibodies against aquaporin-4 in up to 80% of the cases and even less in the NMO spectrum disorders, which may be difficult to distinguish from early multiple sclerosis. While immunosuppressive therapy should...

  8. Interferon alpha association with neuromyelitis optica

    DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

    Asgari, Nasrin; Voss, Anne; Steenstrup, Troels

    2013-01-01

    Interferon-alpha (IFN- α ) has immunoregulatory functions in autoimmune inflammatory diseases. The goal of this study was to determine occurrence and clinical consequences of IFN- α in neuromyelitis optica (NMO) patients. Thirty-six NMO and 41 multiple sclerosis (MS) patients from a population...

  9. Subclinical primary retinal pathology in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Jeong, In Hye; Kim, Ho Jin; Kim, Nam-Hee; Jeong, Kyoung Sook; Park, Choul Yong

    2016-07-01

    Foveal thickness may be a more sensitive indicator of primary retinal pathology than retinal nerve fiber layer thickness since the fovea contains no or sparse retinal nerve fiber layer, which coalesces into axons of the optic nerve. To our knowledge, few quantitative in vivo studies have investigated foveal thickness. By using optical coherence tomography, we measured foveal thickness to evaluate intrinsic retinal pathology. Seventy-two neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder patients (99 eyes with optic neuritis and 45 eyes without optic neuritis) and 34 age-matched controls were included. Foveal thinning was observed both in eyes with non-optic neuritis (185.1 µm, p optica spectrum disorder, foveal thickness correlated with 2.5 % low contrast visual acuity, while retinal nerve fiber layer thickness correlated with high or low contrast visual acuity, extended disability status scale, and disease duration. In this study, we observed foveal thinning irrespective of optic neuritis; thus, we believe that subclinical primary retinal pathology, prior to retinal nerve fiber layer thinning, may exist in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder.

  10. Hydrocephalus in neuromyelitis optica

    OpenAIRE

    Clardy, Stacey L.; Lucchinetti, Claudia F.; Krecke, Karl N.; Lennon, Vanda A.; O'Toole, Orna; Weinshenker, Brian G.; Boyd, Clara D.; Krieger, Stephen; McGraw, Corey; Guo, Yong; Pittock, Sean J.

    2014-01-01

    A majority of patients with neuromyelitis optica (NMO) spectrum disorders (NMOSD) have MRI brain abnormalities, some of which are “NMO-typical” with localization in aquaporin 4 (AQP4)–rich circumventricular and periaqueductal regions.1 Although uncommon in adult patients, symptomatic brain involvement occurs in approximately 50% of NMO–immunoglobulin G (IgG) seropositive children. Here we report the clinical characteristics, type, and frequency of hydrocephalus in NMOSD.

  11. Imaging the Visual Pathway in Neuromyelitis Optica

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Caspar F. Pfueller

    2011-01-01

    Full Text Available The focus of this paper is to summarize the current knowledge on visual pathway damage in neuromyelitis optica (NMO assessed by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI and optical coherence tomography (OCT.

  12. Aquaporin-4 serostatus does not predict response to immunotherapy in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Mealy, Maureen A; Kim, Su-Hyun; Schmidt, Felix; López, Reydmar; Jimenez Arango, Jorge A; Paul, Friedemann; Wingerchuk, Dean M; Greenberg, Benjamin M; Kim, Ho Jin; Levy, Michael

    2017-08-01

    Debate exists about whether neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder seronegative disease represents the same immune-mediated attack on astrocytic aquaporin-4 as in seropositive disease. We investigated whether response to common treatments for neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder differed by serostatus, as assessed by change in annualized relapse rate. We performed a multicenter retrospective analysis of 245 patients with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder who were treated with either rituximab or mycophenolate mofetil as their first-line immunosuppressive treatment for disease prevention. Patients were followed for a minimum of 6 months following treatment initiation. In those started on rituximab, the pre-treatment annualized relapse rates for seropositive and seronegative patients were 1.81 and 1.93, respectively. On-treatment annualized relapse rates significantly declined to 0.32 (seropositive; p optica spectrum disorder patients, treatment was effective regardless of serostatus. This suggests that treatment should not differ when considering these treatments.

  13. Movement disorders in multiple sclerosis and neuromyelitis optica: A clinical marker of neurological disability.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Candeias da Silva, Carolina; Bichuetti, Denis Bernardi; Azevedo Silva, Sonia Maria Cesar de; Ferraz, Henrique Ballalai; Oliveira, Enedina Maria Lobato de; Borges, Vanderci

    2018-03-03

    Movement disorders are not rare in demyelinating diseases but there are few studies comparing their frequency between multiple sclerosis and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder. Our aim was to determine the frequency and the related features of movement disorders in a cohort of patients with multiple sclerosis and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder. It is a cross-sectional study of patients with multiple sclerosis and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder. Patients were evaluated by a movement disorder specialist. Data from a personal interview and neurological examination were collected. Fahn-Tolosa-Marin tremor rating scale was used for tremor evaluation. Health-related quality of life was assessed using EuroQol instrument. Two hundred fifty-three patients were included (mean [SD] age, 40 [12] years; 74.3% female; median [IQR] EDSS score 2.5 [1.0-6.0]); 26% presented with movement disorders. Paroxysmal dystonia (n = 32) and tremor (n = 27) were the most common movement disorders. Patients with multiple sclerosis and low Expanded Disability Status Scale score (below 4.0) have fewer movement disorders than patients with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder. The diagnosis of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder was strongly associated with paroxysmal dystonia (OR = 22.07, 95% CI = 2.56-189.78; p = 0.005). Patients with multiple sclerosis and patients without movement disorders have a slightly better quality of life. Paroxysmal dystonia was the most common movement disorder in demyelinating diseases and strongly associated with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  14. Uso da Fibra de Coco em Betão

    OpenAIRE

    Gonçalves, Stephanie Assunção

    2016-01-01

    O presente trabalho tem como objetivo avaliar as resistências à compressão axial, tração por compressão diametral e tração na flexão, módulos de elasticidade estático e dinâmico do betão reforçado com fibra de coco (BRFC), tendo como referência o betão preparado sem a adição de fibra. A escolha da fibra natural decorreu da necessidade de utilizar os resíduos gerados pelo consumo do coco verde. Sendo assim, este trabalho apresenta uma breve história do betão, suas propriedades, tipos de fibras...

  15. Suspected bacterial meningomyelitis: The first presenting clinical feature of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Li, Xiang; Lin, Jie; Pan, Sipei; Weng, Yiyun; Li, Jia; Zhang, Xu; Xia, Junhui; Tong, Qiaowen

    2017-08-15

    A rare case of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder, suspected to be bacterial meningomyelitis as the initial manifestation, is reported. The patient presented with initial symptoms of meningomyelitis and fever. Cerebrospinal fluid analysis revealed pleocytosis (1280×10 6 /L [98% lymphocytes]) and glucose level of 1.8mmol/L. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed >3 vertebral, longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis and area postrema lesions. Right optic neuritis was experienced 20months after the first attack. Serum anti-aquaporin-4 antibody was positive, and a diagnosis of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder was made, supporting the hypothesis that the pathogenesis of neuromyelitis optica is triggered by infection. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier B.V.

  16. Transverse myelitis associated with an itchy rash and hyperckemia: neuromyelitis optica associated with dermatitis herpetiformis.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Iyer, Anand; Rathnasabapathi, Devipriya; Elsone, Liene; Mutch, Kerry; Terlizzo, Monica; Footitt, David; Jacob, Anu

    2014-05-01

    Neuromyelitis optica is associated with severe neurodisability if not recognized and treated promptly. Several autoimmune disorders are associated with this condition and may vary in their presentation. It is essential that clinicians are aware of the uncommon presenting features of neuromyelitis optica and associated autoimmune conditions. A 53-year-old woman presented with nausea and vomiting and was noted to have an asymptomatic elevated creatinine kinase level, which improved with conservative management. She had a history of iron-deficiency anemia due to long-standing celiac disease that was managed with a gluten-free diet. She then presented with recurrent transverse myelitis and a vesicobullous rash over her arms and feet that was pruritic and excoriating. Skin biopsy results confirmed a clinical diagnosis of dermatitis herpetiformis and antibody test findings against aquaporin-4 were positive, leading to a diagnosis of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder. She was treated with methylprednisolone sodium succinate, plasma exchange, and azathioprine and has remained in remission. This report highlights the association of neuromyelitis optica with dermatitis herpetiformis, which can present even without clinical features of celiac disease. Nausea, vomiting, and asymptomatic hyperCKemia should be recognized as rare presenting features of neuromyelitis optica.

  17. Olfactory dysfunction in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders

    NARCIS (Netherlands)

    Zhang, L.J.; Zhao, N.; Fu, Y.; Zhang, D.Q.; Wang, J.; Qin, W.; Zhang, N.N.N.; Wood, K.; Liu, Y.; Yu, C.S.; Shi, F.D.; Yang, L.

    2015-01-01

    Few data were available for the understanding of olfactory function in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSDs). The aims of our study were to investigate the incidence of olfactory dysfunction and characterize olfactory structures, using MRI, in patients with NMOSDs. Olfactory function was

  18. Neuro-ophthalmic manifestation of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Xiao-jun ZHANG

    2014-10-01

    Full Text Available Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSDs include classic neuromyelitis optica (NMO, opticospinal multiple sclerosis (OSMS, limited form of NMO and isolated optic neuritis or myelitis accompanied by either systemic autoimmune diseases or typical MRI findings of NMO. The common neuro-ophthalmic features of NMOSDs include simultaneous or consecutive bilateral optic neuritis, more commonly seen optic disk edema and surrounding exudate, poor visual recovery, steroid responsiveness and dependency. Combined with serum aquaporin 4 (AQP4 antibody and brain MRI examination, these clinical features can be helpful to the early differential diagnosis between NMOSDs and MS. Some types of eye movement abnormalities have been reported in patients with NMOSDs, but further investigation needs to be done before the specificity of these features are confirmed. doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1672-6731.2014.10.003

  19. Serological prevalence of celiac disease in Brazilian population of multiple sclerosis, neuromyelitis optica and myelitis.

    Science.gov (United States)

    de Oliveira, Pérola; de Carvalho, Daniel Rocha; Brandi, Ivar Viana; Pratesi, Riccardo

    2016-09-01

    Comorbidity of celiac disease with demyelinating diseases of the central nervous system has been reported since the 1960s. The objective of this study was to determine the serological prevalence of celiac disease in the largest series of patients diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, neuromyelitis optica, or myelitis. A prevalence study was conducted with patients evaluated at Sarah Network of Rehabilitation Hospitals between March 2012 and September 2013. They were previously diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, neuromyelitis optica, or idiopathic myelitis. The serum levels of antibodies against tissue transglutaminase and endomysium were assessed. Of the 379 patients evaluated, 249 (65.70%) were diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, 37 (9.56%) with neuromyelitis optica, and 96 (24.54%) with idiopathic myelitis. Two patients (0.53%), one with multiple sclerosis and other with myelitis, tested positive for both antibodies. Our study do not confirm the relationship between celiac serological antibodies with multiple sclerosis, neuromyelitis optica and inflammatory myelitis of an unknown etiology. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  20. Features of anti-aquaporin 4 antibody-seropositive Chinese patients with neuromyelitis optica spectrum optic neuritis.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Li, Hongyang; Wang, Yanling; Xu, Quangang; Zhang, Aidi; Zhou, Huanfen; Zhao, Shuo; Kang, Hao; Peng, Chunxia; Cao, Shanshan; Wei, Shihui

    2015-10-01

    The detection of anti-aquaporin-4 autoantibody (AQP-4 Ab) is crucial to detect patients who will develop neuromyelitis optica (NMO); however, there are few studies on the AQP-4 Ab serostatus of patients with neuromyelitis optica spectrum ON. We analyzed the clinical and paraclinical features of neuromyelitis optica spectrum ON patients in China according to the patients' AQP4-Ab serostatus. 125 patients with recurrent and bilateral ON with simultaneous attacks were divided into AQP-4 Ab-seropositive and -seronegative groups. Demographic, clinical, serum autoantibody data, connective tissue disorders (CTDs), visual performance were compared. A Visual Acuity (VA) of less than 0.1 during acute ON attacks occurred more frequently in the seropositive group (p = 0.023); however, there was not a significant difference between groups on VA recovery after the first attack. The seropositive group experienced the worst outcome during the last attack (p = 0.017). Other co-existing autoimmunity antibodies (p optica spectrum ON.

  1. FIBRAS DE CARBONO NA CONSTRUÇÃO CIVIL

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Nicolas Montanari

    2017-02-01

    Full Text Available Os materiais compósitos se dão pela utilização de dois, ou mais, materiais trabalhando de forma conjunta com o propósito de alcançar determinada propriedade a qual não seria possível com os mesmos isolados. A fibra de carbono com resina epóxi utilizada em reforços estruturais é um desses materiais, a grande resistência mecânica à tração e elevado módulo de elasticidade tornam a fibra de carbono adequada do ponto de vista estrutural, e com a resina epóxi atuando de modo a transferir as tensões da estrutura para serem resistidas pela fibra a caracteriza como tal. Este processo de reforço já vem se mostrando uma alternativa a métodos tradicionais, é mais rápido, simples e limpo que outros, clientes vem optando por este processo mesmo que apresente custo final mais elevado, pois quando consideradas as vantagens nele embutidas torna-se viável. Muito já se desenvolveu com a fibra de carbono no ramo da construção civil, porém ainda pode ser feito mais, descobrindo e aperfeiçoando novas técnicas construtivas compostas de materiais com fibra de carbono.

  2. Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) - an autoimmune disease of the central nervous system (CNS)

    DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

    Asgari, N; Owens, T; Frøkiaer, J

    2010-01-01

    Asgari N, Owens T, Frøkiaer J, Stenager E, Lillevang ST, Kyvik KO. Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) - an autoimmune disease of the central nervous system (CNS).
Acta Neurol Scand: DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0404.2010.01416.x.
© 2010 John Wiley & Sons A/S. In the past 10 years, neuromyelitis optica (NMO) has...... or by intrathecal administration to naive mice. NMO may be characterized as a channelopathy of the central nervous system with autoimmune characteristics....

  3. Neuromyelitis optica with linear enhancement of corpus callosum in brain magnetic resonance imaging with contrast: a case report.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Sahraian, Mohammad Ali; Moghadasi, Abdorreza Naser; Owji, Mahsa; Naghshineh, Hoda; Minagar, Alireza

    2015-06-10

    Neuromyelitis optica is a demyelinating disease of the central nervous system with various patterns of brain lesions. Corpus callosum may be involved in both multiple sclerosis and neuromyelitis optica. Previous case reports have demonstrated that callosal lesions in neuromyelitis optica are usually large and edematous and have a heterogeneous intensity showing a "marbled pattern" in the acute phase. Their size and intensity may reduce with time or disappear in the chronic stages. In this report, we describe a case of a 25-year-old Caucasian man with neuromyelitis optica who presented clinically with optic neuritis and myelitis. His brain magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated linear enhancement of the corpus callosum. Brain images with contrast agent added also showed linear ependymal layer enhancement of the lateral ventricles, which has been reported in this disease previously. Linear enhancement of corpus callosum in magnetic resonance imaging with contrast agent could help in diagnosing neuromyelitis optica and differentiating it from other demyelinating disease, especially multiple sclerosis.

  4. Guided Optical Structures in the Military Environment

    Science.gov (United States)

    1986-05-01

    gyroscopes using integrated optica " (ref.9A), H.C.Lefevre, J.P. Bettini, S.Vatoux and M.Papuohon showed that considerable progress had meanwhile been made...Rotating Optical Fiber Ring Intorferometer", Applied Optica , 16, p. 2605, 1977. 7. V. Vali, R. W. Shorthill, A. Goldstein, and R. S. Krogstad, "Laser...Trmometro, a fibra ottica- Italian Patent No. 04155 A/82 (1982) under extension. 7-5 10 A.M. Sohoggi, M. Dranci, G. Conforti, R. Falcioi, G.P. Preti

  5. Immunotherapy of Neuromyelitis Optica

    Science.gov (United States)

    2013-01-01

    Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) is a chronic inflammatory disease of the central nervous system that affects the optic nerves and spinal cord resulting in visual impairment and myelopathy. There is a growing body of evidence that immunotherapeutic agents targeting T and B cell functions, as well as active elimination of proinflammatory molecules from the peripheral blood circulation, can attenuate disease progression. In this review, we discuss the immunotherapeutic options and the treatment strategies in NMO. We also analyze the pathogenic mechanisms of the disease in order to provide recommendations regarding treatments. PMID:24455211

  6. Plan estratégico Sudamericana de Fibras (2016-2020)

    OpenAIRE

    Herrera Chávez, Santiago; Leyva Forcelledo, Johanna; Ríos Oroz, Erika

    2016-01-01

    La presente investigación tiene como finalidad elaborar un plan estratégico para la empresa Sudamericana de Fibras S.A.; así como proponer recomendaciones con el fin que pueda crecer, en los niveles local y regional, con un modelo sostenible. La empresa Sudamericana de Fibras S.A. opera en el país desde el año 1972 y se dedica a la elaboración de fibras acrílicas, material que se encuentra al inicio de la cadena de suministro en el rubro textil, y permite otorgar propiedades extraordinarias a...

  7. Neuromyelitis optica, atypical hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis and heterozygous perforin A91V mutation.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Palterer, Boaz; Brugnolo, Francesca; Sieni, Elena; Barilaro, Alessandro; Parronchi, Paola

    2017-10-15

    Neuromyelitis optica is an autoimmune demyelinating inflammatory disease characterized by optic neuritis and myelitis with anti-aquaporin 4 antibodies. Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis is a severe systemic inflammatory syndrome that can present in a genetic primary form or secondarily to infective, neoplastic or autoimmune diseases. Our case discusses the first reported case of atypical late-onset hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis in a patient with neuromyelitis optica, with multiple triggering factors and carrying the common A91V hypomorphic perforin mutation, that blurs the distinction between primary and secondary forms. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  8. Neuromyelitis optica-- en vigtig differentialdiagnose til multipel sklerose

    DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

    Holbech, Jakob Vormstrup; Falah, Masoud

    2009-01-01

    Neuromyelitis optica (Devic's disease) is a rare autoimmune neuroinflammatory disease. The disease can often be difficult to distinguish from multiple sclerosis. It is important to be familiar with the disease because of the risk of rapid progression to disability or even death. We describe a 15...

  9. Seronegative neuromyelitis optica after cardiac transplantation.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Kim, Elecia; Van Vrancken, Michael; Shaji, Mohamed; Mir, Osman; Spak, Cedric W; Gupta, Manu; Shamim, Sadat A

    2016-01-01

    We report a case of a 42-year-old man who presented with progressive weakness and blindness over the course of several months and met criteria for seronegative neuromyelitis optica. This presentation was in the setting of immunosuppression following cardiac transplant. No infectious causes were found within the neuroaxis, and he ultimately died with complete blindness, quadriplegia, and respiratory failure attributed to panmyelitis and brain stem inflammation despite aggressive therapies.

  10. Morteros Reforzados con Fibras de Bambú

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Arbeláez Arce Anacilia

    1997-12-01

    Full Text Available El término fibras de bambú, hace referencia al material de desecho (aserrín, seleccionado por diferencia de peso, en inmersión en agua. Se atiene a la definición de fibras que presentan la Norma ASTM C-JI16-89 "Standard Specification for Fiber-Reinforced Concrete ". Se estudian las propiedades físico-mecánicas del mortero 1.3, reforzado con 15, 50 y 100 kg de fibras de bambú, por metro cúbico de mortero, con el objeto de determinar la factibilidad de uso de este material, como matriz para muros estructurales. En el caso de matrices de mortero reforzados para paneles, además de determinar el porcentaje de refuerzo, que permita mantener la resistencia mecánica dentro de los límites establecidos,éste debe lograr un control en el agrietamiento. De hecho en condiciones normales bajo carga, el agrietamiento es inevitable, sea cual fuere la cantidad y calidad de refuerzo usado: Sinembargo, las fibras tienen la propiedad de controlar la propagación del agrietamiento ypor ende transformaruna matrizfrágil, en un material con cierto grado de ductilidad. Los compuestos son probados a compresión axial, flexión e impacto. Las propiedades físicas de absorción de humedad ycontracciones por secado se miden en probetas con dosificación deporcentaje de refuerzo seleccionado de las pruebas mecánicas.

  11. EFNS guidelines on diagnosis and management of neuromyelitis optica

    DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

    Sellner, J; Boggild, M; Clanet, M

    2010-01-01

    Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) or Devic's disease is a rare inflammatory and demyelinating autoimmune disorder of the central nervous system (CNS) characterized by recurrent attacks of optic neuritis (ON) and longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis (LETM), which is distinct from multiple sclerosis...

  12. EFNS guidelines on diagnosis and management of neuromyelitis optica

    NARCIS (Netherlands)

    Sellner, J.; Boggild, M.; Clanet, M.; Hintzen, R.Q.; Illes, Z.; Montalban, X.; Du Pasquier, R.A.; Polman, C.H.; Sorensen, P.S.; Hemmer, B.

    2010-01-01

    Background and purpose: Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) or Devic's disease is a rare inflammatory and demyelinating autoimmune disorder of the central nervous system (CNS) characterized by recurrent attacks of optic neuritis (ON) and longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis (LETM), which is distinct

  13. Analysis, Design and Synthesis Methods for Guidance and Control Systems (Les Methodes d’Analyse de Conception et de Synthese Pour les Systemes de Guidage et de Pilotage)

    Science.gov (United States)

    1990-06-01

    factor anomalies and shifts can also ,. from changes In the gain medium, which ,akes a significant contribution to the optica length of the cavity...felt that this application may be more appropriate for a mature fibra optic gyro system, exhibitin!, a more acceptable cost-performance ratio. A

  14. [Topics of neuromyelitis optica].

    Science.gov (United States)

    Miyamoto, Katsuichi

    2014-01-01

    Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) has been revealed the difference in the pathology of multiple sclerosis since the anti-aquaporin 4 (AQP4) antibody associated with NMO has been found. The clinical epidemiological study has been reviewed, NMO-related patient number in Japan is estimated to be about 4400 people. The antibody-positive patients against myelin-oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG) are present in anti-AQP4 antibody-negative NMO patients. These patients have a characteristic with high frequency of optic neuritis and good response to therapy. In addition, by research in recent years, a new treatment such as anti-IL-6 therapy or anti-complement therapy has been attempted to NMO.

  15. Structural MRI substrates of cognitive impairment in neuromyelitis optica

    NARCIS (Netherlands)

    Liu, Y.; Fu, Y.; Schoonheim, M.M.; Zhang, N.; Fan, M.L.; Su, L.; Shen, Y.; Yan, Y.P.; Yang, L.; Wang, Q.H.; Zhang, N.N.N.; Yu, C.S.; Barkhof, F.; Shi, F.D.

    2015-01-01

    Objective: To identify the clinical and structural MRI markers for predicting cognitive impairment (CI) in patients with neuromyelitis optica (NMO). Methods: Fifty-four patients with NMO and 27 healthy controls underwent extensive neuropsychological testing and multimodal 3.0T MRI. The patient group

  16. Multisystem involvement in neuromyelitis optica

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Megan M Langille

    2015-01-01

    Full Text Available We describe a case of pediatric neuromyelitis optica (NMO with muscle and lung involvement in addition to central nervous system disease. Our patient initially presented with features of area postrema syndrome, then subsequently with optic neuritis. The patient also had recurrent hyperCKemia that responded to corticosteroids. Finally, axillary and hilar adenopathy with pulmonary consolidation were noted as well and responded to immunomodulation. Our case highlights multisystem involvement in NMO including non-infectious pulmonary findings which have not been described in the pediatric population previously.

  17. Characterization of neuromyelitis optica and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder patients with a late onset.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Collongues, N; Marignier, R; Jacob, A; Leite, M I; Siva, A; Paul, F; Zephir, H; Akman-Demir, G; Elsone, L; Jarius, S; Papeix, C; Mutch, K; Saip, S; Wildemann, B; Kitley, J; Karabudak, R; Aktas, O; Kuscu, D; Altintas, A; Palace, J; Confavreux, C; De Seze, J

    2014-07-01

    Few data are available for patients with a late onset (≥ 50 years) of neuromyelitis optica (LONMO) or neuromyelitis optica spectrum disease (LONMOSD), defined by an optic neuritis/longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis with aquaporin-4 antibodies (AQP4-Ab). To characterize LONMO and LONMOSD, and to analyze their predictive factors of disability and death. We identified 430 patients from four cohorts of NMO/NMOSD in France, Germany, Turkey and UK. We extracted the late onset patients and analyzed them for predictive factors of disability and death, using the Cox proportional model. We followed up on 63 patients with LONMO and 45 with LONMOSD during a mean of 4.6 years. This LONMO/LONMOSD cohort was mainly of Caucasian origin (93%), women (80%), seropositive for AQP4-Ab (85%) and from 50 to 82.5 years of age at onset. No progressive course was noted. At last follow-up, the median Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) scores were 5.5 and 6 in the LONMO and LONMOSD groups, respectively. Outcome was mainly characterized by motor disability and relatively good visual function. At last follow-up, 14 patients had died, including seven (50%) due to acute myelitis and six (43%) because of opportunistic infections. The EDSS 4 score was independently predicted by an older age at onset, as a continuous variable after 50 years of age. Death was predicted by two independent factors: an older age at onset and a high annualized relapse rate. LONMO/LONMOSD is particularly severe, with a high rate of motor impairment and death. © The Author(s) 2013.

  18. Síndrome de Straatsma. Caso familiar de mielinización de fibras nerviosas

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Fanny Campos-Jiménez

    2014-01-01

    Full Text Available En condiciones normales sólo ocurre mielinización de fibras del nervio óptico por detrás de la lámina cribosa, pero se observa mielinización de parte de la capa de fibras nerviosas de la retina en el 0.32% a 0.98% de los pacientes. la mielinización intraocular generalmente es yuxtapapilar, y las fibras toman un aspecto característico: manchas blancas, nacaradas, parecidas a una pluma, que siguen la dirección de las fibras de la retina y a veces ocultan la papila. Aparte de estas características fundoscópicas, la mayoría de los pacientes son normales. Se ha encontrado que puede haber una asociación entre la mielinización de las fibras de la retina y una miopía ipsilateral, y también se ha observado ambliopía y estrabismo. Se describe un caso de mielinización de fibras nerviosas, en madre e hija, hecho que sugiere un factor genético en su génesis.

  19. Projeto de EDFAs com controle automatico de ganho totalmente optico para aplicações em redes WDM

    OpenAIRE

    Julio Cesar Rodrigues Fernandes de Oliveira

    2004-01-01

    Resumo: A variação na potência da entrada em amplificadores ópticos a fibra dopada com Érbio (EDFAs) induz alterações em seu ganho. No caso de sistemas ou redes WDM onde o número de canais acoplados ao amplificador varia, o ganho torna-se dependente do número de canais que estão sendo transmitidos, especialmente se o amplificador opera saturado. Este trabalho apresenta o desenvolvimento e a avaliação experimental de uma técnica de controle de ganho totalmente óptica para EDFAs. Esta técnica d...

  20. Idiopathic Transverse Myelitis and Neuromyelitis Optica: Clinical Profiles, Pathophysiology and Therapeutic Choices

    Science.gov (United States)

    Awad, Amer; Stüve, Olaf

    2011-01-01

    Transverse myelitis is a focal inflammatory disorder of the spinal cord which may arise due to different etiologies. Transverse myelitis may be idiopathic or related/secondary to other diseases including infections, connective tissue disorders and other autoimmune diseases. It may be also associated with optic neuritis (neuromyelitis optica), which may precede transverse myelitis. In this manuscript we review the pathophysiology of different types of transverse myelitis and neuromyelitis optica and discuss diagnostic criteria for idiopathic transverse myelitis and risk of development of multiple sclerosis after an episode of transverse myelitis. We also discuss treatment options including corticosteroids, immunosuppressives and monoclonal antibodies, plasma exchange and intravenous immunoglobulins. PMID:22379456

  1. Seronegative neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder patients diagnosed using new diagnostic criteria.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Uzawa, Akiyuki; Mori, Masahiro; Uchida, Tomohiko; Masuda, Hiroki; Ohtani, Ryohei; Kuwabara, Satoshi

    2016-09-01

    Recently, new diagnostic criteria for neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSD) were published. Our primary aim was to evaluate the usefulness of the new diagnostic criteria in anti-aquaporin 4 (AQP4) antibody-negative cases. Consecutive 471 patients whose anti-AQP4 antibody was measured at Chiba University were reviewed. Four anti-AQP4 antibody negative-patients, who fulfilled the new diagnostic criteria for NMOSD but not 2006 diagnostic criteria for neuromyelitis optica (NMO), were identified. They showed high cerebrospinal fluid interleukin-6 and glial fibrillary acidic protein levels, an absence of oligoclonal bands and/or cloud-like enhancement on magnetic resonance imaging, which are compatible findings for NMO. The new diagnostic criteria are clinically useful in seronegative NMOSD. © The Author(s), 2015.

  2. Neuromyelitis Optica: An Often Forgotten Cause of Intractable Nausea and Vomiting

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Chijioke Enweluzo

    2013-07-01

    Full Text Available Neuromyelitis optica, also known as Devic's disease, is a rare autoimmune disorder in which a patient's immune system affects the optic nerves and the spinal cord, leading to loss of vision and spinal cord dysfunction. We present our experience with a 38-year-old female who presented to our facility with complaints of intractable nausea and vomiting. After extensive evaluation, she was found to have neuromyelitis optica. Her symptoms completely resolved following institution of appropriate therapy. She made a significant recovery and has since been placed on chronic immunosuppressive therapy. Through this article we hope to bring attention to a significant cause of intractable nausea and vomiting that may often be forgotten in general medicine or gastroenterology services.

  3. Systemic manifestations and pathogenesis exploration of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Hong JIANG

    2014-09-01

    Full Text Available Objective To investigate the immunological abnormalities beyond central nervous system (CNS associated with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSDs.  Methods Clinical data of 56 patients with NMOSDs from January 2010 to December 2013 enrolled in Department of Neurology at Peking University People's Hospital were analyzed retrospectively. All patients were divided into 2 groups: neuromyelitis optica (N = 33 and non-neuromyelitis optica (N = 23. Each patient underwent detailed physical examination including internal medicine and nervous system. Records of complicated autoimmune diseases as well as scoring of Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS were used to evaluate disease severity. Part of patients received detection of multiple immunological indicators.  Results In all patients with NMOSDs, there were 3 cases with Hashimoto thyroiditis, one case with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE and Sjögren's syndrome (SS, asthma, hyperthyroidism, rheumatoid arthritis and iridocyclitis, respectively. In patients whose immunological indices were available, the first three abnormal immunological changes were abnormal thyroid function (10/17, positive anti-nuclear antibody (14/28 and positive complement 3 (8/19. In addition, NMOSDs got worsen in 2 cases after delivery.  Conclusions NMOSDs coexist with many kinds of autoimmune diseases and multiple autoantibodies. The above-mentioned autoimmunity may be related to the pathogenesis of NMOSDs. Besides, pregnancy or delivery may aggravate the disease severity of NMOSDs. doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1672-6731.2014.09.009

  4. Severe optic neuritis in a patient with combined neuromyelitis optica spectrum disease and primary Sjögren’s syndrome: a case report

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Tan Petrina

    2012-11-01

    Full Text Available Abstract Introduction Optic neuritis, although uncommon, can be the initial presentation of Sjögren’s syndrome. Coexisting Sjögren’s syndrome has also been reported with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder. This case report highlights the association between the two diseases and the importance of rheumatological and neurological evaluations in patients with such diagnoses. Distinction of neuromyelitis optica with coexisting connective tissue disease has both prognostic and therapeutic significance for the patient. Case presentation We report a case of a 56-year-old Chinese woman who presented with bilateral asymmetric visual loss secondary to optic neuritis. She was subsequently found to be seropositive for neuromyelitis optica immunoglobulin G (NMO-IgG (anti-aquaporin-4 antibody and was diagnosed with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder. She also fulfilled the international criteria for Sjögren’s syndrome. Despite initial high dose immunosuppressive therapy, she failed to regain vision in one eye. Conclusion Patients presenting with optic neuritis and severe visual loss should be screened for neuromyelitis optica and treated appropriately. Neuromyelitis optica has been associated with systemic autoimmune diseases, in particular Sjögren’s syndrome, and current evidence indicates that they are two distinct entities. We recommend that both diagnoses be considered in cases of optic neuritis with severe visual loss.

  5. CONCRETO REFORZADO CON FIBRA NATURAL DE ORIGEN ANIMAL (PLUMAS DE AVES)

    OpenAIRE

    Díaz Cabrejos, Pablo; Universidad Señor de Sipán SAC

    2016-01-01

    Para mejorar las propiedades del concreto como la resistencia y la durabilidad ha sido investigado a través de los años. Con ayuda de la tecnología se han obtenido óptimos diseños para concretos reforzados con fibras pero su aplicación comercial aún está limitada debido a que estas fibras incrementan el costo.Con la presente investigación se pretende determinar el contenido óptimo de las fibras en el concreto teniendo en cuenta la inhibición causadas por la contracción plástica. Se estudiará ...

  6. Estudio sobre la inclusión de fibra dietética en productos reestructurados de pescado

    OpenAIRE

    Sánchez Alonso, Isabel

    2009-01-01

    El objetivo principal de esta memoria es el estudio tecnológico de la inclusión de fibra dietética en músculo de pescado picado y geles elaborados a partir de surimi, ambos conservados en estado congelado. Se estudian dos tipos de fibra dietética: A/ fibra de trigo y B/ concentrado de fibra dietética antioxidante obtenido a partir de subproductos de la industria vinícola. Los dos tipos de fibras dietéticas elegidas, presentan propiedades muy diferentes en sus diversos aspectos funcional-tecno...

  7. Fabrication of Optical Fiber Devices

    Science.gov (United States)

    Andres, Miguel V.

    In this paper we present the main research activities of the Laboratorio de Fibras Opticas del Instituto de Ciencia de los Materiales de la Universidad de Valencia. We show some of the main results obtained for devices based on tapered fibers, fiber Bragg gratings, acousto-optic effects and photonic crystal fibers.

  8. Update on neuromyelitis optica: natural history and management

    Science.gov (United States)

    Jindahra, Panitha; Plant, T

    2012-01-01

    Neuromyelitis optica or Devic disease is an inflammatory disorder of the central nervous system. It is caused by antibodies that attack aquaporin 4 water channels in the cell membrane of astrocytic foot processes at the blood brain barrier. It can involve the optic nerve, the spinal cord and beyond. Here we review its pathophysiology, clinical features, and therapy. PMID:28539779

  9. Higher frequency of brain abnormalities in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder patients without primary Sjögren's syndrome.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Gu, Li-Na; Zhang, Min; Zhu, Hui; Liu, Jing-Yao

    2016-10-01

    Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder often co-exists with primary Sjögren's syndrome. We compared the clinical features of 16 neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder patients with ( n = 6) or without primary Sjögren's syndrome ( n = 10). All patients underwent extensive clinical, laboratory, and MRI evaluations. There were no statistical differences in demographics or first neurological involvement at onset between neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder patients with and without primary Sjögren's syndrome. The laboratory findings of cerebrospinal fluid oligoclonal banding, serum C-reactive protein, antinuclear autoantibody, anti-Sjögren's-syndrome-related antigen A antibodies, anti-Sjögren's-syndrome-related antigen B antibodies, and anti-Sm antibodies were significantly higher in patients with primary Sjögren's syndrome than those without. Anti-aquaporin 4 antibodies were detectable in 67% (4/6) of patients with primary Sjögren's syndrome and in 60% (6/10) of patients without primary Sjögren's syndrome. More brain abnormalities were observed in patients without primary Sjögren's syndrome than in those with primary Sjögren's syndrome. Segments lesions (> 3 centrum) were noted in 50% (5/10) of patients without primary Sjögren's syndrome and in 67% (4/6) of patients with primary Sjögren's syndrome. These findings indicate that the clinical characteristics of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder patients with and without primary Sjögren's syndrome are similar. However, neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder patients without primary Sjögren's syndrome have a high frequency of brain abnormalities.

  10. Hormigones de alta resistencia con nano-adiciones y fibras de acero

    OpenAIRE

    Alizo Mirabal, Manuel Arturo

    2015-01-01

    El presente Trabajo Fin de Máster consistió en determinar la influencia que pueden poseer las nano-adiciones de Sílice y Alúmina y fibras de acero en un Hormigón de Alta Resistencia. Partiendo de una dosificación de Hormigón de Alta Resistencia conocida, que contenía humo de Sílice (10%) y fibras de poliolefina (3kg/m3), se les procedió a sustituir por la incorporación de nano-adiciones de Sílice y Alúmina (7% y 3% respectivamente) y añadiendo fibras de acero en lugar de poliolefina. En el pr...

  11. OPTICA: Our Path Together Initiating Cultural Access. Final Report.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Jackson, Susan, Comp.

    This final report describes the activities and outcomes of OPTICA (Our Path Together Initiating Cultural Access) programs. For each program an information sheet indicates the goal, total participation, status of the goal, and activities of the program. Programs included: (1) Hands On: ASL Creative Story Telling, a program that used children's…

  12. Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorders.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Akaishi, Tetsuya; Nakashima, Ichiro; Sato, Douglas Kazutoshi; Takahashi, Toshiyuki; Fujihara, Kazuo

    2017-05-01

    Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) is clinically characterized by severe optic neuritis and transverse myelitis, but recent studies with anti-aquaporin-4-antibody specific to NMO have revealed that the clinical spectrum is wider than previously thought. International consensus diagnostic criteria propose NMO spectrum disorders (NMOSD) as the term to define the entire spectrum including typical NMO, optic neuritis, acute myelitis, brain syndrome, and their combinations. NMOSD is now divided into anti-aquaporin-4-antibody-seropositive NMOSD and -seronegative NMOSD (or unknown serostatus). MR imaging and optical coherence tomography are indispensable in the diagnosis and evaluation of NMOSD. This article reviews the clinical and MR imaging findings of anti-aquaporin-4-antibody-seropositive and anti-myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein-antibody-seropositive NMOSD. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  13. Neuromyelitis optica with clinical and histopathological involvement of the brain.

    NARCIS (Netherlands)

    Hengstman, G.J.D.; Wesseling, P.; Frenken, C.W.; Jongen, P.J.H.

    2007-01-01

    Diagnostic criteria for neuromyelitis optica (NMO) state that there should be no active disease outside the optic nerves and spinal cord. However, several cases have been described with symptomatic brain involvement. We describe an autopsy case of a patient with NMO and symptomatic involvement of

  14. Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders in Algeria: A preliminary study in the region of Tizi Ouzou.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Daoudi, Smail; Bouzar, Melissa

    2016-03-01

    Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) is a disabling inflammatory condition that targets astrocytes in the optic nerves and spinal cord. Recent advances led to the individualization of a set of conditions now referred as NMO spectrum disorder (NMOSD). To describe the prevalence and characteristics of NMO SD in north Algeria. The present study is a retrospective and descriptive work which took place in Nedir Mohamed teaching hospital, Tizi-Ouzou, Algeria. 938 Medical files of patients with CNS inflammatory demyelinating diseases were reviewed then patients with optic neuritis and/or myelitis were preselected. Patients who met the 2015 neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders criteria were selected and analyzed 08 Patients (3.4%) met the 2015 criteria for neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders, 3/8 (37.5%) were positive to AQ4-IgG and 5/8 (62.5%) were negative. Mean age of onset was 29 years, female to male ratio was 3:1, cerebral MRI was normal in 75% of cases and longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis was present in 75% of cases. 37/232 Patients (15.9%) were considered at high risk of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders The present study suggests that the spectrum of NMO disorders is a rare entity among patients with optic nerve and spinal cord demyelinating lesions in north Algeria. However, the lack of accurate AQ4-IgG test certainly underestimates its real prevalence. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  15. Estudo de propriedades estruturais e opticas de multicamadas epitaxiais emissoras de luz baseadas em InGaN/GaN

    Science.gov (United States)

    Pereira, Sergio Manuel de Sousa

    Esta tese apresenta os resultados de uma investigacao experimental em filmes epitaxiais emissores de luz baseados em InxGa1-xN. O InxGa1-xN e uma liga semicondutora ternaria do grupo III-N muito utilizada como camada activa numa gama de dispositivos optoelectronicos em desenvolvimento, incluindo diodos emissores de luz (LEDs) e diodos laser (LDs), para operacao na regiao do visivel e ultravioleta do espectro electromagnetico. Neste estudo, caracterizam-se as propriedade opticas e estruturais de camadas simples e pocos quânticos multiplos (Multiple Quantum Wells, MQWs) de InxGa1-xN/GaN, com enfase nas suas propriedades fisicas fundamentais. O objectivo central do trabalho prende-se com a compreensao mais profunda dos processos fisicos que estao por tras das suas propriedades opticas, preenchendo o fosso existente entre aplicacoes tecnologicas e o conhecimento cientifico. Nomeadamente, a tese aborda os problemas da medicao da fraccao de InN (x) em multicamadas ultrafinas sujeitas a tensoes, a influencia da composicao e das tensoes microscopicas nas propriedades opticas e estruturais. A questao relativa a segregacao de fases em multicamadas de InxGa1-xN/GaN e tambem discutida a luz dos resultados obtidos. A metodologia seguida assenta na integracao de resultados obtidos por tecnicas complementares atraves de uma analise sistematica e multidisciplinar. Esta abordagem passa pela combinacao de: 1) Crescimento de amostras por deposicao epitaxial em fase de vapor organometalico (MOVPE) com caracteristicas especificas de forma a tentar isolar parâmetros estruturais, tais como espessura e composicao; 2) Caracterizacao nanoestrutural por microscopia de forca atomica (AFM), microscopica electronica de varrimento (SEM), difraccao de raios-X e retro-dispersao de Rutherford (RBS); 3) Caracterizacao optica a escalas complementares por: espectroscopia de absorcao optica (OA), fotoluminescencia (PL), catodoluminescencia (CL) e microscopia confocal (CM) com analise espectral. Com

  16. Diagnosis and management of Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder (NMOSD) in Iran

    DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

    Sahraian, Mohammad Ali; Moghadasi, Abdorreza Naser; Azimi, Amir Reza

    2017-01-01

    Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder (NMOSD) is a relapsing neuro inflammatory disease of the central nervous system that typically presents with optic neuritis or myelitis and may cause severe disability. The diagnostic criteria have been updated and several immunosuppressive agents have been...

  17. Hacia una definición de fibra alimentaria

    OpenAIRE

    García Ochoa, Omar Eduardo; Infante, Ramón Benito; Rivera, Carlos Julio

    2008-01-01

    La fibra alimentaria (FA) ha sido un tópico de considerable interés para los nutricionistas y médicos en estos últimos 35 años. Este artículo presenta un análisis sobre la definición de fibra alimentaria y la controversia que existe al respecto, así como las nuevas propuestas que han surgido para incluir en su definición. La FA fue definida como: todos los polisacáridos no almidones más la lignina, que no pueden ser digeridos o absorbidos en el intestino delgado humano. Esta definición no inc...

  18. Quantifying visual pathway axonal and myelin loss in multiple sclerosis and neuromyelitis optica.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Manogaran, Praveena; Vavasour, Irene M; Lange, Alex P; Zhao, Yinshan; McMullen, Katrina; Rauscher, Alexander; Carruthers, Robert; Li, David K B; Traboulsee, Anthony L; Kolind, Shannon H

    2016-01-01

    The optic nerve is frequently injured in multiple sclerosis and neuromyelitis optica, resulting in visual dysfunction, which may be reflected by measures distant from the site of injury. To determine how retinal nerve fiber layer as a measure of axonal health, and macular volume as a measure of neuronal health are related to changes in myelin water fraction in the optic radiations of multiple sclerosis and neuromyelitis optica participants with and without optic neuritis and compared to healthy controls. 12 healthy controls, 42 multiple sclerosis (16 with optic neuritis), and 10 neuromyelitis optica participants (8 with optic neuritis) were included in this study. Optical coherence tomography assessment involved measurements of the segmented macular layers (total macular, ganglion cell layer, inner plexiform layer, and inner nuclear layer volume) and paripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer thickness. The MRI protocol included a 32-echo T2-relaxation GRASE sequence. Average myelin water fraction values were calculated within the optic radiations as a measure of myelin density. Multiple sclerosis and neuromyelitis optica eyes with optic neuritis history had lower retinal nerve fiber layer thickness, total macular, ganglion cell and inner plexiform layer volumes compared to eyes without optic neuritis history and controls. Inner nuclear layer volume increased in multiple sclerosis with optic neuritis history (mean = 0.99 mm(3), SD = 0.06) compared to those without (mean = 0.97 mm(3), SD = 0.06; p = 0.003). Mean myelin water fraction in the optic radiations was significantly lower in demyelinating diseases (neuromyelitis optica: mean = 0.098, SD = 0.01, multiple sclerosis with optic neuritis history: mean = 0.096, SD = 0.01, multiple sclerosis without optic neuritis history: mean = 0.098, SD = 0.02; F3,55 = 3.35, p = 0.03) compared to controls. Positive correlations between MRI and optical coherence tomography measures were also apparent

  19. Use of advanced magnetic resonance imaging techniques in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder

    NARCIS (Netherlands)

    S. Kremer (Stephane); F. Renard (Felix); S. Achard (Sophie); M.A. Lana-Peixoto (Marco A.); J. Palace (Jacqueline); N. Asgari (Nasrin); E.C. Klawiter (Eric C.); S. Tenembaum (Silvia); B. Banwell (Brenda); B.M. Greenberg (Benjamin M.); J.L. Bennett (Jeffrey); M. Levy (Michael); P. Villoslada (Pablo); A. Saiz (Albert Abe); K. Fujihara (Kazuo); K.H. Chan (Koon Ho); S. Schippling (Sven); F. Paul (Friedemann); H.J. Kim (Ho Jin); J. De Seze (Jerome); J.T. Wuerfel (Jens T.); P. Cabre (Philippe); R. Marignier (Romain); T. Tedder (Thomas); E.D. van Pelt - Gravesteijn (Daniëlle); S. Broadley (Simon); T. Chitnis (Tanuja); D. Wingerchuk (Dean); L. Pandit (Lekha); M.I. Leite (M. Isabel); M. Apiwattanakul (Metha); I. Kleiter (Ingo); N. Prayoonwiwat (Naraporn); M. Han (May); K. Hellwig (Kerstin); K. Van Herle (Katja); G. John (Gareth); D.C. Hooper (D. Craig); I. Nakashima (Ichiro); D. Sato (Douglas); M.R. Yeaman (Michael R.); E. Waubant (Emmanuelle); S. Zamvil (Scott); O. Stüve (Olaf); O. Aktas (Orhan); T.J. Smith (Terry J.); A. Jacob (Anu); K. O'Connor (Kevin)

    2015-01-01

    textabstractBrain parenchymal lesions are frequently observed on conventional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans of patients with neuromyelitis optica (NMO) spectrum disorder, but the specific morphological and temporal patterns distinguishing them unequivocally from lesions caused by other

  20. Desarrollo de materiales compuestos avanzados basados en fibras de carbono para la industria aeroespacial

    OpenAIRE

    Rodriguez, Exequiel Santos

    2015-01-01

    En este trabajo se estudia el desarrollo de materiales compuestos de matriz polimérica reforzados con fibras de carbono para aplicaciones que presentan solicitaciones severas. Este es el caso de la industria aeroespacial, que utiliza componentes en cohetes y aeronaves que se ven sometidos a altas solicitaciones mecánicas y están expuestos a las altas temperaturas. Es por ello que se estudiaron materiales para diversas aplicaciones basados en fibras de carbono: preimpregnados de fibras y resin...

  1. Avances en el estudio fractográfico de fibras cerámicas de circonaerbia mediante microscopía óptica confocal

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    López-Cepero, J. M.

    2005-10-01

    trabajo, los autores estudian en detalle un sistema de interés (fibras cerámicas de circona dopada con un 5% molar de erbia, sometidas a ensayos de tracción a alta temperatura mediante LSCM. Además de poner de relieve la utilidad de la técnica y de revelar la textura característica de la superficie de fractura de dichas fibras, se encuentra que dicha textura refleja la estructura nanométrica de precipitados propia del material.

  2. Fibra de sisal como envoltório na drenagem agrícola

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Viviane F. Silva

    2014-06-01

    Full Text Available O trabalho foi realizado objetivando analisar o desempenho do sistema de drenagem com fibra de sisal envolto orgânico como material alternativo.  A pesquisa foi realizada no Laboratório de Engenharia de Irrigação e Drenagem da Universidade Federal de Campina Grande. Usando-se um sistema experimental composto de nove tanques construídos de alvenaria e impermeabilizados internamente. Os tratamentos foram dispostos em um arranjo fatorial com três tipos de tubos, Drenoflex, Kananet e tubo de PVC liso próprio para Esgoto envolto com fibra de sisal num delineamento inteiramente casualizado com três repetições. Foram avaliados a carga hidráulica de entrada (he, fluxo(q e resistência de entrada(re e analisados  estatisticamente, utilizando-se o software ASSISTAT . A comparação dos tubos Drenoflex, PVC liso e Kananet envolto com fibra de sisal, as médias da carga hidráulica na entrada para os tubos variando os valores de 0,40486 a 0,35543, sendo significativo para o tubo Kananet, devido possuir furos maiores facilitando assim a passagem da água pelo tubo. E em relação à resistência de entrada na interação entre os tubos drenantes e a fibra de sisal diferiu estatisticamente com o tubo PVC liso. O desempenho do sistema drenante com envolto de fibra de sisal é considerado muito bom.

  3. New onset neuromyelitis optica in a young Nigerian woman with possible antiphospholipid syndrome: a case report

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Komolafe Morenikeji A

    2008-11-01

    Full Text Available Abstract Introduction Devic's neuromyelitis optica is an inflammatory demyelinating disease that targets the optic nerves and spinal cord. It has a worldwide distribution and distinctive features that distinguish it from multiple sclerosis. There has been no previous report of neuromyelitis optica from our practice environment, and we are not aware of any case associated with antiphospholipid syndrome in an African person. Case presentation We report the case of a 28-year-old Nigerian woman who presented with neck pain, paroxysmal tonic spasms, a positive Lhermitte's sign and spastic quadriplegia. She later developed bilateral optic neuritis and had clinical and biochemical features of antiphospholipid syndrome. Her initial magnetic resonance imaging showed a central linear hyperintense focus in the intramedullary portion of C2 to C4. Repeat magnetic resonance imaging after treatment revealed resolution of the signal intensity noticed earlier. Conclusion Neuromyelitis optica should be considered in the differential diagnoses of acute myelopathy in Africans. We also highlight the unusual association with antiphospholipid syndrome. Physicians should screen such patients for autoimmune disorders.

  4. A Rare Case of Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder in Patient with Sjogren’s Syndrome

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Supat Thongpooswan

    2014-01-01

    Full Text Available We report a 48-year-old female with the history of Sjogren’s syndrome who presented with 3-week history of tingling, numbness, and shooting back, waist, and bilateral leg pain and numbness in the pelvic region with urinary and bowel incontinence. Physical examination was remarkable for reduced motor power in both lower extremities with spasticity. Sensory deficit was noted at the T6 level. Laboratory investigation revealed elevated ESR and CRP and positive serum antiaquaporin-4 IgG. Thoracic and lumbar magnetic resonance imaging revealed abnormal patchy areas, leptomeningeal enhancement through the thoracic cord extending from T3 through T6 levels, without evidence of cord compression. Impression of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder was made and patient was treated with methylprednisolone intravenously followed by tapering oral prednisone. Neurological symptoms gradually improved with resolution of bowel and urinary incontinence. In a patient with Sjogren’s syndrome who presents with neurological complaints, the possibility of neuromyelitis optica or neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder should be considered. Awareness of the possibility of CNS disease is important due to the serious nature of CNS complications, some of which are treatable with immunosuppressants. Our patient with Sjogren’s syndrome who presented with myelopathy benefited from early recognition and institution of appropriate therapy.

  5. Acquired Demyelinating Syndromes: Focus on Neuromyelitis Optica and childhood-onset Multiple Sclerosis

    NARCIS (Netherlands)

    E.D. van Pelt - Gravesteijn (Daniëlle)

    2016-01-01

    markdownabstractAcquired demyelinating syndromes (ADS) cover a broad spectrum of central nervous system (CNS) inflammatory demyelinating syndromes, of which multiple sclerosis (MS) is the most common subtype. This thesis focuses on two relatively rare clinical subtypes of ADS: neuromyelitis optica

  6. The history of neuromyelitis optica

    Science.gov (United States)

    2013-01-01

    The discovery of a novel serum autoantibody (termed NMO-IgG or AQP4-Ab) in a subset of patients in 2004 has revived interest in neuromyelitis optica (NMO). While the history of classical multiple sclerosis has been extensively studied, only little is known about the history of NMO. In the present article, we provide a comprehensive review of the early history of this rare but intriguing syndrome. We trace the origins of the concept of NMO in the 19th century medical literature and follow its evolution throughout the 20th and into the 21st century. Finally, we discuss recent proposals to revise the concept of NMO and explain why there is indeed a need for a more systematic and descriptive nomenclature. PMID:23320783

  7. Neuromyelitis optica and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder: Natural history and long-term outcome, an Indian experience

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Sujit Abajirao Jagtap

    2015-01-01

    Full Text Available Background: Neuromyelitis optica (NMO has evolved from devic′s classical description to a broader disease spectrum, from monophasic illness to a polyphasic illness with multiple recurrences, disease confined to optic nerve and spinal cord to now brain stem, cerebrum and even endocrinopathy due to hypothalamic involvement. Objectives: To report, the epidemiological characteristics, clinical presentations, recurrence rate, treatment and response to therapy in 26 patients with NMO and NMO spectrum disorder among the Indian population. Methods: We performed observational, retrospective analysis of our prospectively maintained data base of patients with NMO, longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis during the period of January 2003-December 2012 who satisfied the national multiple sclerosis society (NMSS task force criteria for diagnosis of NMO and NMO spectrum disorder. Results: There were 26 patients (female: male, 21:5, the mean age of onset of symptom was 27 years (range 9-58, standard deviation = 12. Twenty-one patients (80% fulfilled NMSS criteria for NMO while rest 5 patients (20% were considered as NMO spectrum disorder. Seven patients (27% had a monophasic illness, 19 patients (73% had a polyphasic illness with recurrences. The Median recurrence rate was 4/patient in the polyphasic group. 13 (50% patient were tested for aquaporin 4 antibody, 8 (61% were positive while 5 patients (39% were negative. All patients received intravenous methyl prednisolone, 9 patients (35% required further treatment for acute illness in view of unresponsiveness to steroids. Thirteen patients (50% received disease-modifying agents for recurrences. Mean duration of follow-up was 5 years. All patients had a good outcome (modified Rankin scale, <3 except one who had poor visual recovery. Conclusion: Neuromyelitis optica/NMO spectrum disorder is demyelinating disorder with female predominance, polyphasic course, myelitis being most common event although brain

  8. Iron and Non-Iron-Related Characteristics of Multiple Sclerosis and Neuromyelitis Optica Lesions at 7T MRI.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Chawla, S; Kister, I; Wuerfel, J; Brisset, J-C; Liu, S; Sinnecker, T; Dusek, P; Haacke, E M; Paul, F; Ge, Y

    2016-07-01

    Characterization of iron deposition associated with demyelinating lesions of multiple sclerosis and neuromyelitis optica has not been well studied. Our aim was to investigate the potential of ultra-high-field MR imaging to distinguish MS from neuromyelitis optica and to characterize tissue injury associated with iron pathology within lesions. Twenty-one patients with MS and 21 patients with neuromyelitis optica underwent 7T high-resolution 2D-gradient-echo-T2* and 3D-susceptibility-weighted imaging. An in-house-developed algorithm was used to reconstruct quantitative susceptibility mapping from SWI. Lesions were classified as "iron-laden" if they demonstrated hypointensity on gradient-echo-T2*-weighted images and/or SWI and hyperintensity on quantitative susceptibility mapping. Lesions were considered "non-iron-laden" if they were hyperintense on gradient-echo-T2* and isointense or hyperintense on quantitative susceptibility mapping. Of 21 patients with MS, 19 (90.5%) demonstrated at least 1 quantitative susceptibility mapping-hyperintense lesion, and 11/21 (52.4%) had iron-laden lesions. No quantitative susceptibility mapping-hyperintense or iron-laden lesions were observed in any patients with neuromyelitis optica. Iron-laden and non-iron-laden lesions could each be further characterized into 2 distinct patterns based on lesion signal and morphology on gradient-echo-T2*/SWI and quantitative susceptibility mapping. In MS, most lesions (n = 262, 75.9% of all lesions) were hyperintense on gradient-echo T2* and isointense on quantitative susceptibility mapping (pattern A), while a small minority (n = 26, 7.5% of all lesions) were hyperintense on both gradient-echo-T2* and quantitative susceptibility mapping (pattern B). Iron-laden lesions (n = 57, 16.5% of all lesions) were further classified as nodular (n = 22, 6.4%, pattern C) or ringlike (n = 35, 10.1%, pattern D). Ultra-high-field MR imaging may be useful in distinguishing MS from neuromyelitis optica. Different

  9. Painful tonic spasms and brainstem involvement in a patient with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Roman-Filip, Corina; Ungureanu, Aurelian; Cernuşcă-Miţaru, Mihaela

    2016-01-01

    Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) is an inflammatory-demyelinating disease of the central nervous system classically characterized by optic neuritis and severe myelitis. New diagnostic criteria defined neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder as limited forms of NMO or diverse neurologic presentations in the presence of specific antiaquaporin-4 antibodies. We report the case of a 57-year-old woman admitted in our department for recurrent attacks of optic neuritis, tetraparesis with severe painful tonic spasms of the left limbs and brainstem involvement. Painful tonic spasms have been described as movement disorders associated with multiple sclerosis, but a growing number of reports describe them in cases of NMO. Copyright © 2015 Polish Neurological Society. Published by Elsevier Urban & Partner Sp. z o.o. All rights reserved.

  10. Influencia de los componentes del concreto reforzado con fibras en sus propiedades mecánicas

    OpenAIRE

    González Salcedo, Luis Octavio

    2013-01-01

    El concreto es un material de construcción y estructural por excelencia, elaborado con cemento, agua, agregados, adiciones minerales y aditivos químicos. Sin embargo, es conocido también como un material quebradizo, característica que es contrarrestada con la incorporación de un volumen de fibra como reforzamiento de su matriz basada en cemento. La incorporación de fibra hace que se denomine como concreto reforzado con fibra, o simplemente fibrorreforzado, y se caracteriza c...

  11. Desenvolvimento de sorvete de chocolate utilizando fibra de casca de laranja como substituto de gordura

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Camila Comas e Boff

    2013-10-01

    Full Text Available A procura por alimentos mais saudáveis por parte dos consumidores tem impulsionado as indústrias de alimentos a desenvolverem alimentos que contenham menor teor de gordura, contudo sem alterar as características sensoriais e nutricionais dos produtos. A indústria de sorvetes é uma das que mais utiliza gordura em suas formulações, contendo, em média, 10% desse ingrediente. Uma alternativa para a substituição de gorduras é a fibra de frutas cítricas, que vem sendo utilizada com sucesso, reduzindo o teor de gordura na indústria de embutidos, por exemplo. Nesse sentido, o objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar as características sensoriais e físico-químicas de sorvetes elaborados com fibra de casca de laranja amarga comercial como substituto da gordura. Foram utilizadas duas formulações com concentrações diferentes de fibra de laranja (F1 com 0,74% e F2 com 1,10% de fibra e uma formulação controle (com gordura. Para as duas formulações, foram encontrados valores condizentes com a literatura para a composição centesimal do sorvete. Em relação ao valor energético dos sorvetes, foi observada uma redução de mais de 25%, indicando que o produto pode ter alegação de light. Para o teor de fibra dos sorvetes, os valores observados foram de F1 1,4% e F2, 2,0%, podendo considerar o sorvete da formulação F2 como fonte de fibras. Os atributos de cor, odor e textura não apresentaram diferenças entre as amostras. Já sabor, sabor residual e aceitação global obtiveram diferenças entre as amostras com fibra e a controle. Os sorvetes elaborados com fibra de casca de laranja obtiveram índices de aceitação de 78%.

  12. Neuromyelitis Optica (Devic's Syndrome): an Appraisal.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Crout, Teresa M; Parks, Laura P; Majithia, Vikas

    2016-08-01

    Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSD), previously known as Devic's syndrome, are a group of inflammatory disorders of the central nervous system (CNS) characterized by severe, immune-mediated demyelination and axonal damage, predominantly targeting optic nerves and the spinal cord typically associated with a disease-specific serum NMO-IgG antibody that selectively binds aquaporin-4 (AQP4). The classic and best-defined features of NMOSD include acute attacks of bilateral or rapidly sequential optic neuritis (leading to visual loss) or transverse myelitis (often causing limb weakness and bladder dysfunction) or both with a typically relapsing course. The diagnosis of NMO/NMOSD requires a consistent history and examination with typical clinical presentations, findings on spinal cord neuroimaging with MRI, cerebrospinal fluid analysis along with determination of AQP4-IgG serum autoantibody status, and exclusion of other disorders. Two major advances in this field has been the development of diagnostic criteria and treatment recommendations. Consensus diagnostic criteria have been established and were recently revised and published in 2015, enhancing the ability to make a diagnosis and appropriately evaluate these disorders. Expert recommendations and uncontrolled trials form the basis of treatment guidelines. All patients with suspected NMOSD should be treated for acute attacks as soon as possible with high-dose intravenous methylprednisolone -1 gram daily for three to five consecutive days and in some cases, plasma exchange should be used. It is recommended that every patient with NMOSD be started on an immunosuppressive agent, such as, azathioprine, methotrexate, or mycophenolate and in some cases, rituximab, soon after the acute attack and usually be treated for about 5 years after the attack. These advances have helped improve the prognosis and outcome in these disorders.

  13. Association between TPMT*3C and decreased thiopurine S-methyltransferase activity in patients with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders in China.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Gong, Xiaoqing; Mei, Shenghui; Li, Xindi; Li, Xingang; Zhou, Heng; Liu, Yonghong; Zhou, Anna; Yang, Li; Zhao, Zhigang; Zhang, Xinghu

    2018-06-01

    Thiopurines are effective drugs in treating neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders and other diseases. Thiopurines' toxicity is mainly imputed to thiopurine S-methyltransferase activity. In Chinese population, the most common and important variation of thiopurine S-methyltransferase is TPMT*3C (rs1142345). This study aims to reveal the association between thiopurine S-methyltransferase activity and genetic polymorphisms of thiopurine S-methyltransferase in patients with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders in China. A liquid chromatography tandem mass/mass method was used to evaluate the thiopurine S-methyltransferase activity by using 6-mercapthioprine as the substrate in human erythrocyte haemolysate via 1 h incubation at 37 °C to form its methylated product 6-methylmercaptopurine. The amount of 6-methylmercaptopurine was adjusted by haematocrit and normalized to 8 × 10 8 erythrocytes. The selected polymorphisms of thiopurine S-methyltransferase were identified using MassARRAY system (Sequenom) and multiple SNaPshot technique. In 69 patients with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders, thiopurine S-methyltransferase activity was 80.29-154.53 (127.51 ± 16.83) pmol/h/8 × 10 8 erythrocytes. TPMT*3C (rs1142345) was associated with lower thiopurine S-methyltransferase activity (BETA = -25.37, P = 0.011). Other selected variants were not associated with thiopurine S-methyltransferase activity. TPMT*3C affects TPMT activity in Chinese patients with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders. Further studies are warranted to confirm the results. TPRs = thiopurines; NMOSD = neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders; TPMT = thiopurine S-methyltransferase; LC-MS/MS = liquid chromatography tandem mass/mass; 6-MMP = 6-methylmercaptopurine; IS = internal standard; SNP = single nucleotide polymorphism; MAF = minor allele frequency; HWE = Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium; BETA = regression coefficients; UTR-3 = untranslated region 3.

  14. The Urine Proteome Profile Is Different in Neuromyelitis Optica Compared to Multiple Sclerosis

    DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

    Nielsen, Helle H; Beck, Hans C; Kristensen, Lars P

    2015-01-01

    OBJECTIVES: Inflammatory demyelinating diseases of the CNS comprise a broad spectrum of diseases like neuromyelitis optica (NMO), NMO spectrum disorders (NMO-SD) and multiple sclerosis (MS). Despite clear classification criteria, differentiation can be difficult. We hypothesized that the urine...

  15. Reconstrucción de lesiones osteocondrales con fibra de carbono

    OpenAIRE

    Carranza Bencano, A.; Armas-Padrón, J. R.; Lozano, Mª A.

    1998-01-01

    Objetivo: Estudiar a largo plazo la evolución histológica de defectos osteocondrales de la rótula de conejos tratados con fibra de carbono. Material y Método: 18 conejos de raza gigante español, variedad parda, de ambos sexos, con un peso aproximado de 1.5 a 2 Kg y 18 discos Cleveland de fibra de carbono de 8 mm de diámetro (Medicarb®, fabricado por Leyland Medical International). Creación de un defecto de 6 mm. de diámetro en la superficie articular de la rótula, hasta alcanzar el teji...

  16. Influence of female sex and fertile age on neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Borisow, Nadja; Kleiter, Ingo; Gahlen, Anna; Fischer, Katrin; Wernecke, Klaus-Dieter; Pache, Florence; Ruprecht, Klemens; Havla, Joachim; Krumbholz, Markus; Kümpfel, Tania; Aktas, Orhan; Ringelstein, Marius; Geis, Christian; Kleinschnitz, Christoph; Berthele, Achim; Hemmer, Bernhard; Angstwurm, Klemens; Weissert, Robert; Stellmann, Jan-Patrick; Schuster, Simon; Stangel, Martin; Lauda, Florian; Tumani, Hayrettin; Mayer, Christoph; Zeltner, Lena; Ziemann, Ulf; Linker, Ralf A; Schwab, Matthias; Marziniak, Martin; Then Bergh, Florian; Hofstadt-van Oy, Ulrich; Neuhaus, Oliver; Winkelmann, Alexander; Marouf, Wael; Rückriem, Lioba; Faiss, Jürgen; Wildemann, Brigitte; Paul, Friedemann; Jarius, Sven; Trebst, Corinna; Hellwig, Kerstin

    2017-07-01

    Gender and age at onset are important epidemiological factors influencing prevalence, clinical presentation, and treatment response in autoimmune diseases. To evaluate the impact of female sex and fertile age on aquaporin-4-antibody (AQP4-ab) status, attack localization, and response to attack treatment in patients with neuromyelitis optica (NMO) and its spectrum disorders (neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD)). Female-to-male ratios, diagnosis at last visit (NMO vs NMOSD), attack localization, attack treatment, and outcome were compared according to sex and age at disease or attack onset. A total of 186 NMO/SD patients (82% female) were included. In AQP4-ab-positive patients, female predominance was most pronounced during fertile age (female-to-male ratio 23:1). Female patients were more likely to be positive for AQP4-abs (92% vs 55%; p 40 years. Our data suggest an influence of sex and age on susceptibility to AQP4-ab-positive NMO/SD. Genetic and hormonal factors might contribute to pathophysiology of NMO/SD.

  17. Comportamiento mecánico del concreto reforzado con fibras de bagazo de caña de azúcar

    OpenAIRE

    Espinoza Carvajal, Marlon Jonathan

    2015-01-01

    El tema de investigación que a continuación vamos a describir se centra en el estudio de la incorporación de fibras naturales a una matriz de cemento. Primeramente se evaluó el Estado del Arte, verificando la existencia de estudios que tenga similitud con el tema y sirvan de referentes. Ya en campo empezamos con la recolección de la fibra natural en el Ingenio Monterrey, (MALCA), luego se procede con el aislamiento de la fibra por un tiempo no mayor a tres meses, esto ayuda a que la fibra...

  18. Sensores de fibra óptica basados en resonancias electromagnéticas

    OpenAIRE

    López Lambás, Sergio

    2011-01-01

    Este trabajo surge como continuación a los trabajos basados en LMR ya realizados con el objetivo de profundizar en el estudio y fabricación de sensores de fibra óptica basados en resonancias electromagnéticas utilizando diferentes materiales y técnicas. En concreto el proyecto perseguirá los siguientes objetivos: Desarrollar sensores de fibra óptica basados en resonancias electromagnéticas con recubrimientos metálicos y su aplicación a la detección de campo magnético. Estudiar y mejorar la fa...

  19. Müller cells and retinal axons can be primary targets in experimental neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Zeka, Bleranda; Lassmann, Hans; Bradl, Monika

    2017-01-01

    Recent work from our laboratory, using different models of experimental neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD), has led to a number of observations that might be highly relevant for NMOSD patients. For example: (i) in the presence of neuromyelitis optica immunoglobulin G, astrocyte-destructive lesions can be initiated by CD4+ T cells when these cells recognize aquaporin 4 (AQP4), but also when they recognize other antigens of the central nervous system. The only important prerequisite is that the T cells have to be activated within the central nervous system by "their" specific antigen. Recently activated CD4+ T cells with yet unknown antigen specificity are also found in human NMOSD lesions. (ii) The normal immune repertoire might contain AQP4-specific T cells, which are highly encephalitogenic on activation. (iii) The retina might be a primary target of AQP4-specific T cells and neuromyelitis optica immunoglobulin G: AQP4-specific T cells alone are sufficient to cause retinitis with low-grade axonal pathology in the retinal nerve fiber/ganglionic cell layer. A thinning of these layers is also observed in NMOSD patients, where it is thought to be a consequence of optic neuritis. Neuromyelitis optica immunoglobulin G might target cellular processes of Müller cells and cause their loss of AQP4 reactivity, when AQP4-specific T cells open the blood-retina barrier in the outer plexiform layer. Patchy loss of AQP4 reactivity on Müller cells of NMOSD patients has been recently described. Cumulatively, our findings in experimental NMOSD suggest that both CD4+ T cell and antibody responses directed against AQP4 might play an important role in the pathogenesis of tissue destruction seen in NMOSD.

  20. Fibras vegetales colombianas como refuerzo en compuestos de matriz polimérica

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    José Luis Suárez Castañeda

    2017-01-01

    Full Text Available Contexto: Se realizó una búsqueda local de tejidos de fibras vegetales para determinar la composición de los grupos funcionales y morfología de su superficie antes y después de un tratamiento alcalino con miras a su empleo como refuerzo en compuestos de matriz polimérica. Método: La búsqueda se desarrolló dentro del área metropolitana del Valle de Aburrá, Colombia. Las fibras se trataron por inmersión en NaOH disuelto al 6 % w/v por 48 horas, seguida por una neutralización en ácido acético al 1 % v/v por una hora. Posteriormente fueron secadas a 60 °C por 24 horas. Las técnicas empleadas para los análisis fueron la espectroscopía infrarroja por transformada de Fourier (FTIR y la microscopía electrónica de barrido (SEM. Resultados: Se seleccionaron tejidos de fique, yute, corteza de coco, lino y algodón. Los análisis FTIR muestran una tendencia a la disminución de ácidos grasos, hemicelulosas, ligninas y enlaces β en la superficie de las fibras, mientras que las imágenes SEM demuestran la remoción de impurezas, la exposición de rugosidades y la creación de espacios interfibrales. Conclusiones: El tratamiento alcalino podría favorecer el mecanismo de anclaje del polímero termofijo a la superficie de las fibras y la creación de enlaces entre las moléculas polares de las fibras y el polímero termofijo, disminuyendo el deslizamiento relativo entre matriz y refuerzo durante la aplicación de cargas.

  1. Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders: beyond longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Lemos, M.D.; Carvalho, G.B.S.; Carvalho, R.S.; Bichuetti, D.B.; Oliveira, E.M.L. de; Abdala, N.

    2015-01-01

    Aim: To describe the neuroradiological features and their prevalence in patients with neuromyelitis optica (NMO). Materials and methods: Two neuroradiologists independently reviewed 35 spinal cord and 37 brain MRI studies from patients with NMO. The examinations were analysed for the presence of lesion, topography, enhancement, and brain lesions suggestive of multiple sclerosis and/or NMO. Results: Seventy percent of the spinal cord lesions involved over three or more vertebral segments. Seventy-eight percent of brain scans were abnormal, and the most prevalent findings were non-specific foci of T2 hyperintensities in the cerebral white matter (55%) and brainstem lesions (52%). One patient had lesions disseminated in space compatible with multiple sclerosis according to 2010 revised McDonald criteria. Brain lesions suggestive of NMO occurred at least once in 17 (59%) patients. Conclusion: Spinal cord lesions were often longitudinally extensive and brain lesions were common, with the majority of patients having at least one distinctive NMO lesion. - Highlights: • Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) affects mainly the spinal cord but also the brain. • We accessed the radiological features of patients with NMO in brain and spinal cord. • We found a high prevalence of extensive myelitis and specific brain lesions. • Some brainstem lesions could be misdiagnosed if not actively searched. • A practical approach to evaluate suspected NMO images is presented

  2. Membranous nephropathy with Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Li, Xiangling; Wang, YanQiang

    2017-07-01

    Membranous nephropathy (MN) accompanying Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSD) has rarely been described previously. We recently presented a 45-year-old Chinese male presenting with recurrent lower extremity pitting edema, or eyelid edema, proteinuria and hyperlipidemia. especially intractable hiccup and vomiting, painful tonic spasm (PTS) as the revealing symptom of a demyelinating disorder of central nervous system. The kindey biopsy specimen showed MN stage 2. Serological testing revealed antibodies AQP4, MRI head and spine revealed medulla oblongata and C1-C2 cervical vertebra lesions. Treatment with methylprednisolone, cyclophosphamide, azathioprine resulted in consistent clinical improvement. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  3. Clinical characteristics of late-onset neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder: A multicenter retrospective study in Korea.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Seok, Jin Myoung; Cho, Hye-Jin; Ahn, Suk-Won; Cho, Eun Bin; Park, Min Su; Joo, In-Soo; Shin, Ha Young; Kim, Sun-Young; Kim, Byung-Jo; Kim, Jong Kuk; Cho, Joong-Yang; Huh, So-Young; Kwon, Ohyun; Lee, Kwang-Ho; Kim, Byoung Joon; Min, Ju-Hong

    2017-11-01

    There are currently few studies regarding late-onset neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (LO-NMOSD). We aimed to describe the characteristic features of patients with LO-NMOSD in Korea. Anti-aquaporin-4 antibody-positive patients with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) from nine tertiary hospitals were reviewed retrospectively. The patients were divided into two groups based on age of onset: LO-NMOSD (⩾50 years of age at onset) versus early-onset neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (EO-NMOSD) (<50 years of age at onset). Clinical, laboratory, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) parameters were investigated. Among a total of 147 patients (125 female; age of onset, 39.4 ± 15.2 years), 45 patients (30.6%) had an age of onset of more than 50 years. Compared to patients with EO-NMOSD, patients with LO-NMOSD had more frequent isolated spinal cord involvement at onset (64.4% vs 37.2%, p = 0.002), less frequent involvement of the optic nerve (40.0% vs 67.7%, p = 0.002), and less frequent brain MRI lesions (31.1% vs 50.0%, p = 0.034). Furthermore, there was a significant positive correlation between age of onset and Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score at last follow-up ( r = 0.246, p = 0.003). Age of onset could be an important predictor of lesion location and clinical course of patients with NMOSD.

  4. ESTUDIO DE LA RESISTENCIA MECÁNICA DE MATERIALES COMPUESTOS POLIMÉRICOS REFORZADOS CON FIBRAS DE CARBONO

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Enrique Rocha-Rangel

    2011-01-01

    Full Text Available Materiales compuestos hechos de una resina epóxica reforzada con diferentes contenidos de fibra de carbono, fueron preparados por dos técnicas de laminación diferentes. Se aplicó 1 Kg/cm2 de presión en los laminados, mientras, que otros laminados se sometieron a un vacío de 1 atm. De los resultados se tiene que las resistencias a la flexión y tensión de los compósitos son mejoradas con el aumento en el contenido de fibra en los mismos. Los compósitos resultantes presentan un mejor comportamiento mecánico bajo esfuerzos de tensión que cuando lo hacen bajo esfuerzos de flexión, debido a que en flexión las fibras se rompen eventualmente, provocando que el material falle a bajos valores de esfuerzo. Cuando los materiales compuestos son sometidos a tensión, las fibras trasmiten los esfuerzos entre ellas y el material falla hasta que se acumula la energía necesaria para romper todas las fibras de una sola vez.

  5. OBTENCIÓN DE FIBRA DIETETICA NUTRICIONAL DE VALOR AGREGADO A PARTIR DE BAGAZO DE CAÑA

    OpenAIRE

    LICONA AGUILAR, ANGELES IVETH

    2014-01-01

    La fibra dietética se reconoce cada vez más como un elemento importante para una nutrición sana; numerosas referencias respaldan esta aseveración en las que se ha demostrado no solo la importancia que la fibra tiene en la regulación de las funciones intestinales sino también para la prevención de algunas enfermedades. En este contexto, tiene sentido analizar la posibilidad de aprovechar la potencial utilización que brindan numerosos residuos agrícolas como fuente de fibra en una gran variedad...

  6. Brain perfusion SPECT analysis : New insights in mild cognitive impairment and neuromyelitis optica

    NARCIS (Netherlands)

    Sánchez Catasùs, Carlos Alfredo

    2018-01-01

    Het doel van dit proefschrift was om aan te tonen dat hersenperfusie SPECT kan helpen bij het verhelderen van belangrijke vragen met betrekking tot het prodromale “Mild Cognitive Impairment” (MCI) stadium van de ziekte van Alzheimer (AD) en recidiverende Neuromyelitis Optica (NMO). Dit is niet

  7. Th17 cells in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder: a review.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Lin, Jie; Li, Xiang; Xia, Junhui

    2016-12-01

    Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) has been identified as a central nervous system (CNS) autoimmune inflammatory disorder, which has been recognized as a B cell-mediated humoral immune disease. However, cases have been reported indicating that some of the neuromyelitis optica (NMO) patients have been resistant to B cell-related treatments. Recently, more and more evidence has shown that T cell-mediated immunity may take part in the pathogenesis of NMOSD, especially in the Th17 phenotype. In our PUBMED search, we used the following keywords: Th17 cell, Th17 cell-related cytokines, T cells, B cells, B cell-related productions, NMO, NMOSD, recurrent/bilateral optic neuritis, recurrent transverse myelitis and longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis. We systemically reviewed the role of Th17 cells and Th17 cell-related cytokines in NMOSD. We found that Th17 cells and Th17-related cytokines, such as IL-6, IL-1β, IL-17, IL-21, IL-22, IL-23 and TGF-β, are not only directly involved in the pathogenesis but also collaborated with B cells and B cell-related antibody production to induce CNS lesions. Th17 cell-related therapy has also been reviewed in this article, and the data suggested that Th17 may be a new therapeutic target of NMOSD.

  8. High risk of postpartum relapses in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Klawiter, Eric C; Bove, Riley; Elsone, Liene; Alvarez, Enrique; Borisow, Nadja; Cortez, Melissa; Mateen, Farrah; Mealy, Maureen A; Sorum, Jaime; Mutch, Kerry; Tobyne, Sean M; Ruprecht, Klemens; Buckle, Guy; Levy, Michael; Wingerchuk, Dean; Paul, Friedemann; Cross, Anne H; Jacobs, Anu; Chitnis, Tanuja; Weinshenker, Brian

    2017-11-28

    To study the effect of pregnancy on the frequency of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) relapse and evaluate rates of pregnancy-related complications in an international multicenter setting. We administered a standardized survey to 217 women with NMOSD from 7 medical centers and reviewed their medical records. We compared the annualized relapse rate (ARR) during a baseline period 2 years prior to a participant's first pregnancy to that during pregnancy and to the 9 months postpartum. We also assessed pregnancy-related complications. There were 46 informative pregnancies following symptom onset in 31 women with NMOSD. Compared to baseline (0.17), ARR was increased both during pregnancy (0.44; p = 0.035) and during the postpartum period (0.69; p = 0.009). The highest ARR occurred during the first 3 months postpartum (ARR 1.33). A total of 8 of 76 (10.5%) with onset of NMOSD prior to age 40 experienced their initial symptom during the 3 months postpartum, 2.9 times higher than expected. The postpartum period is a particularly high-risk time for initial presentation of NMOSD. In contrast to published observations in multiple sclerosis, in neuromyelitis optica, relapse rate during pregnancy was also increased, although to a lesser extent than after delivery. © 2017 American Academy of Neurology.

  9. Mejoramiento de las propiedades de tensión en WPC de LDPE: HIPS/fibra natural mediante entrecruzamiento con DCP

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Arnoldo Emilio Delgado Tobón

    2014-06-01

    Full Text Available Fibra de Retamo Liso (telinemonspessulana fue mezclada en una matriz polimérica formada por: polietileno de baja densidad (LDPE y poliestireno de alto impacto (HIPS en relación 70:30 respectivamente. La fibra natural fue sometida a reducción de tamaño entre 1700 y 850 µm; se le realizó tratamiento superficial de mercerización; el contenido de humedad fue 0,17%. El análisis termo gravimétrico (TGA muestra que la fibra tratada tiene estabilidad de 200,53 °C. La elaboración del compuesto se realizó en mezclador interno y la técnica de obtención de las probetas fue mediante moldeo por compresión. Se evaluó el efecto del agente entrecruzante peróxido de dicumilo (DCP en compuestos con varios porcentajes de fibra: 0; 10; 25; 50 phr. La adición de DCP (1 phr en los compuestos, mejora significativamente las propiedades de tensión con respecto a similares concentraciones de fibra; sin embargo, esta diferencia en los valores de las propiedades disminuye progresivamente cuando la cantidad de fibra se aproxima a 50 phr. El aumento en la concentración de fibra afecta negativamente las propiedades de tensión, con excepción del Módulo de Elasticidad y la Resistencia a la Fluencia. La causa principal es originada por la baja adhesión interfacial fibra natural-matriz polimérica, claramente evidenciada en las imágenes SEM.

  10. Vibrómetro de fibra óptica codificado en frecuencia

    OpenAIRE

    Sánchez Prudencio, Guillermo

    2013-01-01

    En el presente proyecto se expone el desarrollo de un vibrómetro basado en fibra óptica. La motivación de este proyecto es el diseño de un sistema capaz de monitorizar las vibraciones de una máquina mediante el uso de tecnología láser y de fibra óptica. Mediante este sistema es posible el cálculo de la frecuencia y amplitud de la vibración de la máquina. El vibrómetro está basado en el principio de interferencia de la luz. Un haz de luz coherente proporcionado por un láser se divide en dos: u...

  11. Antibodies against aquaporin-4 in neuromyelitis optica: distinction between recurrent and monophasic patients

    NARCIS (Netherlands)

    Ketelslegers, I.A.; Modderman, P.W.; Vennegoor, A.; Killestein, J.; Hamann, D.; Hintzen, R.Q.

    2011-01-01

    The detection of antibodies against aquaporin-4 (AQP4) has improved the diagnosis of neuromyelitis optica (NMO). We evaluated a recently established cell-based anti-AQP4 assay in 273 patients with inflammatory CNS demyelination. The assay had a specificity of 99% and a sensitivity of 56% to detect

  12. The Treatment of Neuromyelitis Optica

    Science.gov (United States)

    Kowarik, Markus C.; Soltys, John; Bennett, Jeffrey L.

    2014-01-01

    Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) is an autoimmune disorder of the central nervous system directed against astrocytes. Initially diagnosed in individuals with monophasic or relapsing optic neuritis and transverse myelitis, NMO is now recognized as a demyelinating disorder with pleiotropic presentations due to the identification of a specific autoantibody response against the astrocyte water channel aquaporin-4 in the majority of individuals. As visual impairment and neurologic dysfunction in NMO are commonly severe, aggressive treatment of relapses and prophylactic immunomodulatory therapy are the focus of treatment. Although there are no approved treatments for NMO, medications and therapeutic interventions for acute and chronic treatment have been the subject of retrospective study and case reports. The goal of this review is to familiarize the reader with biologic and clinical data supporting current treatments in NMO and highlight future strategies based on advancements in our understanding of NMO pathogenesis. PMID:24531318

  13. Treatment-resistant neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders associated with Toxocara canis infection: A case report.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Kambe, Daisuke; Takeoka, Kayo; Ogawa, Kenta; Doi, Kosuke; Maruyama, Haruhiko; Yoshida, Ayako; Suenaga, Toshihiko; Kageyama, Takashi

    2017-04-01

    A 53-year-old woman was admitted to the department of neurology in Tenri Hospital because of progressive thoracic myelitis a month after she had eaten uncooked bovine liver. A previous episode of right optic neuritis and a positive test for serum anti-aquaporin-4 antibodies indicated a diagnosis of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders. Although the patient initially recovered with the reduction of anti-aquaporin-4 antibodies during treatment with intravenous methylprednisolone infusion and plasma exchange, her neurological symptoms deteriorated soon after the completion of plasma exchange. Western blotting analysis detected anti-Toxocara canis antibodies in the serum; thus, the patient underwent oral albendazole treatment. This resulted in the alleviation of her symptoms. We therefore consider that rigorous investigation should be encouraged to detect rare pathogens including parasites in cases of treatment-resistant neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  14. Neuromyelitis optica med udtalte cerebrale magnetisk resonans-skannings-forandringer hos en niårig pige

    DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

    Trautner, Simon; Pedersen, Hans Peder; Bendtson, Inger

    2009-01-01

    Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) is a rare inflammatory disorder characterised by optic neuritis and transverse myelitis. We report a severe pediatric case presenting with impaired vision, tetraparesis, bladder retention and lower extremity pain. Magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated longitudinally...

  15. Gaze palsy, hypogeusia and a probable association with miscarriage of pregnancy--the expanding clinical spectrum of non-opticospinal neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders: a case report.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Chang, Thashi; Withana, Milinda

    2015-02-10

    Neuromyelitis optica is characterised by optic neuritis, longitudinally-extensive transverse myelitis and presence of anti-aquaporin-4 antibodies in the serum. However, non-opticospinal central nervous system manifestations have been increasingly recognised. Awareness of the widening clinical spectrum of neuromyelitis optica (unified within the nosology of 'neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders') is key to earlier diagnosis and appropriate therapy. We report 2 patients to illustrate the varied clinical manifestations of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders while postulating an effect of anti-aquaporin-4 antibodies on the miscarriage of pregnancy. This is the first report of horizontal gaze palsy as a presenting symptom of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders. Patient 1: A 17-year-old Sri Lankan female presented with hypersomnolence, lateral gaze palsy and loss of taste of 1 week duration. Two years previously she had presented with intractable hiccups and vomiting followed by a brainstem syndrome. Magnetic resonance imaging showed a lesion in the left cerebellum extending into the pons while lesions in bilateral hypothalami and medulla noted 2 years ago had resolved. Autoimmune, vasculitis and infection screens were negative. Anti-aquaporin-4 antibodies were detected in serum. All her symptoms resolved with immunosuppressive therapy. Patient 2: A 47-Year-old Sri Lankan female presented with persistent vomiting lasting over 3 weeks. Three years previously, at 25-weeks of her 4(th) pregnancy, she had presented with quadriparesis and was found to have a longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis from C2 to T2 vertebral levels, which gradually improved following intravenous steroid therapy. Magnetic resonance imaging showed a hyper-intense lesion in the area postrema and longitudinally extensive atrophy of the cord corresponding to her previous myelitis. Autoimmune, vasculitis and infection screens were negative. Anti-aquaporin-4 antibodies were detected in

  16. Fibra da casca do coco verde como substrato agrícola

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Carrijo Osmar Alves

    2002-01-01

    Full Text Available A produção comercial de mudas e o cultivo sem solo de hortaliças estão se tornando práticas comuns entre os olericultores. Vários materiais orgânicos como as turfas, resíduos de madeira, casca de pinus e de arroz parcialmente carbonizada ou não, ou materiais inorgânicos como areia, rochas vulcânicas, perlita, lã de rocha e a espuma fenólica já são utilizados como substratos, isoladamente ou em composição. A casca de coco verde que em muitas regiões causa transtorno ao serviço de limpeza pública pelo volume e pela dificuldade de decomposição produz uma fibra que pode ser utilizada como substrato. Para a produção da fibra, a casca de coco verde é picada, desfibrada, triturada, lavada e secada. Para o uso como substrato na produção de mudas, a fibra deve passar por um processo de compostagem. Este processo não é necessário para o uso como substrato em cultivo sem solo, mas no entanto, o substrato necessitará ser enriquecido com nutrientes em pré-plantio ou em fertirrigação. O uso do substrato da fibra de coco verde na produção de tomate em casa de vegetação, alcançou, em termos absolutos, 13,2 kg m-2 de frutos comerciais (média de 3 anos cerca de 7,3% mais que o segundo melhor substrato, o pó de serra com 12,3 kg m-2.

  17. Proyecto de apertura de una Planta de Recolección de Fibras Secundarias en la zona norte de la República del Perú, Piura

    OpenAIRE

    Coellar Neira, Paulo Geovanny

    2005-01-01

    Fibras Secundarias. La utilización de fibras secundarias en la elaboración y producción de papel. La recuperación de fibras secundarias. El Mercado Ecuatoriano de Fibras Secundarias. Análisis de Mercado. Determinación del mercado potencial, comparación con países desarrollados. ¿Cómo potenciar el mercado nacional de recuperación de fibras?. Marco legal actual y deseado. Análisis y comentario. Fuentes alternativas de aprovisionamiento de fibras secundarias. Análisis del potencial mercado del P...

  18. Estudo da Estabilização Termo-Oxidativa de Fitas e Feixes de Fibras de Poliacrilonitrila

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Costa Andréa M. A. R.

    2002-01-01

    Full Text Available Os estudos relacionados ao processo de fabricação de fibras de carbono indicam que a etapa de estabilização termo-oxidativa das fibras precursoras é limitante, envolvendo reações químicas complexas e mudanças na estrutura física das fibras. Com o objetivo de se conhecer melhor a etapa de estabilização e eliminar gastos em testes experimentais, a modelagem e a simulação surgem para tentar otimizar este processo. Apresenta-se neste trabalho um modelo matemático para a etapa de estabilização de uma fita de fibras de poliacrilonitrila. As equações do modelo descrevem as principais reações químicas de estabilização, a difusão de oxigênio e a transferência de calor na fita. Para a resolução do modelo foi desenvolvido um programa computacional na linguagem Fortran, utilizando os métodos de Colocação Ortogonal e Rungefraction three-quarters Kutta Semi-implícito. Foram obtidos resultados de temperaturas e concentrações na fita de fibras de poliacrilonitrila em função do tempo de estabilização e da posição na espessura da fita. Estes resultados foram analisados e comparados com os simulados em um feixe de fibras de poliacrilonitrila e indicaram que a transferência de calor na fita é melhor do que no feixe e conseqüentemente as reações exotérmicas são mais controladas.

  19. Combinación de fibras de acero de última generación para el refuerzo de hormigón autocompactante

    OpenAIRE

    Alberti, Marcos; Enfedaque, Alejandro; Galvez, Jaime; Cortez, Adriana

    2018-01-01

    [ES] Dado que la mayor desventaja mecánica del hormigón son sus propiedades en tracción, las fibras normalmente se utilizan para mejorar la respuesta frente a solicitaciones de tracción y flexión, siendo las fibras de acero las más comúnmente utilizadas. Este tipo de fibras se ha utilizado con éxito en aplicaciones estructurales en los últimos 50 años y, como consecuencia, se han desarrollado nuevas fibras de acero de última generación de las que existe una bibliografía muy lim...

  20. Neuromyelitis optica with Hashimoto′s thyroiditis: A new syndrome or just coincidence

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Abhishek Singhai

    2015-01-01

    Full Text Available Neuromyelitis optica (NMO is an uncommon disease syndrome of the central nervous system that affects the optic nerves and spinal cord. NMO with endocrinopathies has been described as being unique to black Antillean and Afro-Brazilian women. We describe one case of NMO with hashimoto′s thyroiditis in a young female, probably first case report in India.

  1. Efeito da fibra do polissacarídeo de soja no peso e na umidade das fezes de ratos em fase de crescimento

    OpenAIRE

    Freitas,Karine C.; Motta,Maria Eugênia F. A.; Amâncio,Olga M. S.; Fagundes Neto,Ulysses; Morais,Mauro B.

    2004-01-01

    OBJETIVO: Comparar, em ratos, o efeito do polissacarídeo de soja em relação a celulose e fórmula de soja sem fibra alimentar sobre o peso e a umidade fecal. MÉTODOS: Foram utilizados 12 ratos Wistar machos, com 21 dias de vida, distribuídos em três grupos, que receberam ração AIN-93G variando-se a fonte de fibra alimentar: grupo polissacarídeo, com 5% de fibra na forma de polissacarídeo de soja; grupo fórmula de soja, com 5% de fórmula de soja sem fibra; e grupo celulose, com 5% de fibra na f...

  2. Efeito da modificação de superfície de fibras nas propriedades mecânicas de compósitos a base de poli (tereftalato de butileno reforçado por fibras naturais inorgânicas

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Felipe Darabas Rzatki

    2014-06-01

    Full Text Available O presente trabalho visa investigar a viabilidade de utilização de fibras naturais de sílica amorfa (FNSA como agente de reforço em polímeros de engenharia, assim como avaliar o seu potencial como alternativa às fibras de vidro curtas em aplicações industriais. Diferentes modificações na química de superfície dessas fibras foram avaliadas buscando melhorar a adesão na interface entre fibras e matriz, e consequentemente, melhorar as propriedades mecânicas do compósito. As modificações superficiais das FNSA foram realizadas através de agentes de acoplamento do tipo silano, providos com funções orgânicas distintas. O PBT foi selecionado como matriz devido a sua conhecida facilidade de processamento, mesmo após a incorporação de grandes quantidades de aditivos. A modificação das FNSA foi avaliada a partir da análise termogravimétrica acoplada à espectroscopia no infravermelho com transformada de Fourier. A resistência mecânica e fratura dos compósitos foi investigada por ensaios de tração e microscopia eletrônica de varredura. Finalmente, obtiveram-se compósitos com fibras modificadas com resistência à tração 40% superior ao material base puro.

  3. Brainstem and limbic encephalitis with paraneoplastic neuromyelitis optica.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Moussawi, Khaled; Lin, David J; Matiello, Marcelo; Chew, Sheena; Morganstern, Daniel; Vaitkevicius, Henrikas

    2016-01-01

    The spectrum of disorders associated with anti-neuromyelitis optica (NMO) antibody is being extended to include infrequent instances associated with cancer. We describe a patient with brainstem and limbic encephalitis from NMO-immunoglobulin G in serum and cerebrospinal fluid in the context of newly diagnosed breast cancer. The neurological features markedly improved with excision of her breast cancer and immune suppressive therapy. This case further broadens the NMO spectrum disorders (NMOSD) by an association between NMOSD and cancer and raises the question of coincidental occurrence and the appropriate circumstances to search for a tumor in certain instances of NMO. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  4. Cognitive Impairment and Whole Brain Diffusion in Patients with Neuromyelitis Optica after Acute Relapse

    Science.gov (United States)

    He, Diane; Wu, Qizhu; Chen, Xiuying; Zhao, Daidi; Gong, Qiyong; Zhou, Hongyu

    2011-01-01

    The objective of this study investigated cognitive impairments and their correlations with fractional anisotropy (FA) and mean diffusivity (MD) in patients with neuromyelitis optica (NMO) without visible lesions on conventional brain MRI during acute relapse. Twenty one patients with NMO and 21 normal control subjects received several cognitive…

  5. Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder presenting with repeated hypersomnia due to involvement of the hypothalamus and hypothalamus-amygdala linkage.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Kume, Kodai; Deguchi, Kazushi; Ikeda, Kazuyo; Takata, Tadayuki; Kokudo, Yohei; Kamada, Masaki; Touge, Tetsuo; Takahashi, Toshiyuki; Kanbayashi, Takashi; Masaki, Tsutomu

    2015-06-01

    We report the case of a 46-year-old Japanese woman with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder presenting with repeated hypersomnia accompanied by decreased CSF orexin level. First episode associated with hypothalamic-pituitary dysfunction showed bilateral hypothalamic lesions that can cause secondary damage to the orexin neurons. The second episode associated with impaired memory showed a left temporal lesion involving the amygdala. The mechanism remains unknown, but the reduced blood flow in the hypothalamus ipsilateral to the amygdala lesion suggested trans-synaptic hypothalamic dysfunction secondary to the impaired amygdala. A temporal lesion involving the amygdala and hypothalamus could be responsible for hypersomnia due to neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder. © The Author(s), 2015.

  6. An update on the evidence for the efficacy and safety of rituximab in the management of neuromyelitis optica

    Science.gov (United States)

    Collongues, Nicolas; de Seze, Jérôme

    2016-01-01

    Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSDs) is a new concept which includes classical neuromyelitis optica (NMO) and partial forms of NMO such as recurrent optic neuritis with positive aquaporin-4 antibodies (AQP4) or brainstem symptoms (intractable hiccups or vomiting). This disease is clearly distinguished from multiple sclerosis (MS) and the therapeutic approach is clearly different. Rituximab is actually considered to be one of the most efficient treatments of NMOSD, even if class I studies are clearly lacking. In the present review, we describe the state of the art about rituximab treatment in NMOSD, including adults and children, plus its efficacy and tolerance and we also underline the questions that should be addressed in the near future. PMID:27134673

  7. An update on the evidence for the efficacy and safety of rituximab in the management of neuromyelitis optica.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Collongues, Nicolas; de Seze, Jérôme

    2016-05-01

    Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSDs) is a new concept which includes classical neuromyelitis optica (NMO) and partial forms of NMO such as recurrent optic neuritis with positive aquaporin-4 antibodies (AQP4) or brainstem symptoms (intractable hiccups or vomiting). This disease is clearly distinguished from multiple sclerosis (MS) and the therapeutic approach is clearly different. Rituximab is actually considered to be one of the most efficient treatments of NMOSD, even if class I studies are clearly lacking. In the present review, we describe the state of the art about rituximab treatment in NMOSD, including adults and children, plus its efficacy and tolerance and we also underline the questions that should be addressed in the near future.

  8. Acute Respiratory Failure due to Neuromyelitis Optica Treated Successfully with Plasmapheresis

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Massa Zantah

    2016-01-01

    Full Text Available Neuromyelitis Optica (NMO is a demyelinating autoimmune disease involving the central nervous system. Acute respiratory failure from cervical myelitis due to NMO is known to occur but is uncommon in monophasic disease and is treated with high dose steroids. We report a case of a patient with NMO who developed acute respiratory failure related to cervical spinal cord involvement, refractory to pulse dose steroid therapy, which resolved with plasmapheresis.

  9. Infiltração de sal de alumínio em fibras de sisal para obtenção de fibras de alumina Infiltration of aluminum salt into sisal to produce alumina fibers

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    T. E. Andrade Jr.

    2005-03-01

    Full Text Available O sisal é um recurso estratégico para a região Nordeste e, particularmente, para o estado do Rio Grande do Norte, por ser uma cultura renovável e adaptada às condições do semi-árido. Em virtude das condições adversas de clima e solo, o sisal é, em algumas regiões, o único produto agrícola rentável passível de plantio. Agregar valor aos produtos manufaturados a partir do sisal contribui não só para o desenvolvimento científico e tecnológico da região, como também para a geração de renda para a população dos municípios potiguares produtores de sisal. Da planta extraem-se fibras ligninocelulósicas utilizadas na produção artesanal de cordas e industrial de mantas e tapetes. Uma outra alternativa é o aproveitamento da estrutura da fibra para a produção de fibras de alumina (Al2O3 pela biomodelagem. Este processo consiste na reprodução da estruturas natural do material de partida. O objetivo deste trabalho foi estudar as condições de infiltração da fibra de sisal com sal de alumínio para posterior conversão da estrutura em fibras de alumina. Inicialmente, as fibras de sisal foram pré-tratadas com hidróxido de sódio, infiltradas com uma solução saturada de sal de alumínio (Al2Cl6 e sinterizadas entre 1400 °C e 1650 °C. A caracterização das fibras de alumina foi feita por difração de raios X e microscopia eletrônica de varredura. Os resultados mostraram a conversão completa apenas da superfície da fibra de sisal em alfa-Al2O3, resultando em baixa resistência ao manuseio. Novos métodos de infiltração são propostos com o objetivo de reproduzir-se a estrutura interna da fibra de sisal, resultando em fibras materiais com melhor resistência mecânica.Sisal is a renewable agricultural resource adapted to the hostile climatic and soil conditions particularly encountered in the semi-arid areas of the state of Rio Grande do Norte, located in Northeastern Brazil. Consequently, sisal has played a

  10. Características de adhesión entre fibras de queratina y poliéster insaturado

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Marco Paniagua

    2008-01-01

    Full Text Available En este trabajo se presentan los métodos y resultados utilizados para determinar las características de adhesión entre fibras de queratina y una matriz de poliéster insaturado. Las fibras fueron preparadas con varios tratamientos superficiales para determinar el efecto de estos en la adhesión a la matriz mediante: i pruebas de desgarre de monofilamento, pull-out, como método directo de medición y ii pruebas de tensión en laminados como método indirecto para estudiar, mediante microscopía electrónica SEM, la adhesión fibra matriz en la zona de fractura.

  11. Perfis de polietileno reciclado carregado com fibra de açaí

    OpenAIRE

    BRITO, Paulo Roberto de Oliveira

    2012-01-01

    Foram obtidos perfis tubulares porosos de polietileno (PE) e de polietileno/fibra de açaí (PE/PA) 80/20 extrudados a partir de partículas granuladas de polietileno de alta densidade reciclado de embalagens pós-consumo de 600 μm, e deste com fibra de açaí de 300 μm. Para o processamento das peças foi desenvolvida uma extrusora mono-rosca de bancada, com sistema mecânico acionado por um motor elétrico de ½ CV (0,37 kw) controlado por um inversor de freqüência, com canhões, roscas, matriz e sist...

  12. Estudio de viabilidad de cajones marítimos con hormigón con fibras

    OpenAIRE

    Ramos Marquès, Òscar Gonçal

    2017-01-01

    En este TFM se estudia la viabilidad de sustituir la armadura pasiva por fibras metálicas o plásticas en cajones para obras portuarias. Para ello, en primer lugar, se estudia el procedimiento constructivo de un cajón y las propiedades de los hormigones con fibras. Una vez analizado el estado del conocimiento se procede a escoger un cajón representativo, ya construido con armadura pasiva. El cajón escogido es el cajón tipo 3 del dique est...

  13. Efeito do tratamento alcalino de fibras de Curauá sobre as propriedades de compósitos de matriz biodegradável

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Lílian Vanessa Rossa Beltrami

    2014-06-01

    Full Text Available Neste trabalho avaliou-se a influência do tratamento alcalino das fibras de curauá, nas concentrações de 1, 5 e 10%(m/v de NaOH, nas propriedades dos compósitos com matriz de PHBV e 20% m/m de fibras de curauá. Os compósitos foram moldados por extrusão e injeção e avaliadas suas as propriedades morfológicas, térmicas e mecânicas. Os resultados de FTIR mostraram que o tratamento alcalino promoveu modificações na estrutura das fibras de curauá, comprovadas pela remoção da hemicelulose e da lignina, evidenciadas pela ausência das bandas típicas destes compostos. Nos compósitos com fibras de curauá tratadas com solução de NaOH na concentração de 5% apresentaram um aumento de 30% na resistência à flexão e 12% na resistência ao impacto, quando comparados aos compósitos com fibras sem tratamento. Estes resultados indicam que o tratamento alcalino promoveu uma melhoria na adesão das fibras na matriz, o que melhorou significativamente as propriedades mecânicas dos compósitos.

  14. Caracterización de propiedades relacionadas con la textura de suspensiones de fibras alimentarias

    OpenAIRE

    CÓRDOBA SEQUEIRA, ARTURO

    2008-01-01

    La fibra dietética es un componente que, además de ser beneficioso para la salud, puede resultar adecuado para aumentar la viscosidad y otras propiedades relacionadas de determinados productos. No obstante, la procedencia de la misma, así como su concentración y el modo en que se adicione puede afectar a su funcionalidad. En este trabajo se ha realizado un estudio de las propiedades físico-químicas y estructurales de fibras dietéticas procedentes de diferentes frutas (limón, naranja y manzana...

  15. Morfologia e morfometria dos tipos de fibras do músculo reto abdominal de cadelas (Canis familiaris durante a gestação

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Maila Karina Mattos de Brito

    2007-08-01

    Full Text Available Neste trabalho foram avaliadas as alterações morfológicas e o grau de hipertrofia das fibras de contração lentas (tipo I e rápidas (tipo II do músculo reto abdominal de cadelas adultas nas fases: pré-gestacional, 30 e 60 dias de gestação e 30 dias pós-parto (pp. Em todas essas fases, sob anestesia, foram removidas biópsias musculares, as quais foram congeladas. Cortes histológicos foram obtidos em um micrótomo e corados com hematoxilina e eosina (HE para a avaliação da morfologia. Outros cortes foram submetidos à ATPase miofibrilar (m-ATPase, após pré-incubação em meio alcalino (pH = 10,4 e em meio ácido (pH = 4,4, visando à identificação das fibras tipo I e II. Nas cadelas virgens, o tecido muscular revelou-se constituído por fibras com diferentes diâmetros, com contornos poligonais, tendo um ou mais núcleos periféricos. Estas características foram similares nos animais com 30 dias de gestação. Aos 60 dias, ao lado de fibras com aparência normal, observaram-se fibras com contornos mais polimórficos e outras fibras de diâmetros muito pequenos. Aos 30 dias pp, as características do tecido foram similares às dos animais em fase pré-gestacional. Em todas as fases estudadas, os diâmetros fibras tipo II foram maiores do que as do tipo I. Aos 30 dias observou-se a redução significativa dos diâmetros de ambos os tipos de fibras e aumento significativo aos 60 dias de gestação. Durante a gestação, o estímulo crônico, representado pela expansão da parede abdominal, promoveu alterações da morfologia e morfometria das fibras.

  16. PROPRIEDADES TERMOFÍSICAS DE COMPÓSITO DE MATRIZ DE GESSO E FIBRA VEGETAL

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    George Santos Marinho

    2013-03-01

    Full Text Available Foi desenvolvido um compósito de matriz de gesso e reforço de fibra vegetal (Cocos nucifera destinado à fabricação de elementos construtivos (e. g., placas para forração de coberturas e painéis de vedação. Corpos de prova foram produzidos na forma de sanduíche de gesso / fibra / gesso. Duas espessuras diferentes da fatia de fibra foram consideradas: 8 mm e 10 mm. Um corpo de prova de gesso sem a fatia de fibra foi fabricado para servir como padrão de comparação. Utilizando-se um equipamento analisador térmico, foram realizados ensaios para determinação das seguintes propriedades termofísicas dos corpos de prova: condutividade térmica (k, capacidade térmica volumétrica (.CP e difusividade térmica (. A partir dos resultados foi possível evidenciar vantagens do compósito em relação ao padrão. O menor valor de k conferiu ao compósito uma maior capacidade de isolação, possibilitando redução da carga térmica no interior das edificações devido à radiação solar. Nsse aspecto, o compósito se mostra adequado ao uso como elemento de vedação em edificações situadas em localidades de baixas latitudes (e. g., região Nordeste do Brasil. Além das vantagens citadas, o compósito pode proporcionar mais leveza e economia de material, possibilitando a produção de elementos construtivos mais esbeltos.

  17. Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP for prevention of recurrent pneumonia in the Neuromyelitis Optica patient

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    James A. Welker

    2014-01-01

    Conclusions: Patients with Neuromyelitis Optica differ from those with traumatic spinal cord injury as they have a chronic progressive systemic illness that causes continued deterioration of their nervous system resulting in the need for routine monitoring that ensures the timely addition of CPAP for the prevention of pneumonia and its associated medical expenses.

  18. Uso de fibra natural de sisal em blocos de concreto para alvenaria estrutural

    OpenAIRE

    Indara Soto Izquierdo

    2011-01-01

    A utilização de fibras vegetais como reforço constitui um grande interesse na obtenção de novos materiais para a construção civil produto de seu baixo custo, alta disponibilidade e reduzido consumo de energia para sua produção. Este trabalho avalia a incorporação de fibras de sisal, de comprimento 20 e 40 mm, e fração volumétrica de 0,5 e 1%, em concretos para a alvenaria de blocos estruturais e determina o uso destas unidades na execução de prismas e mini-paredes. Foram realizados os testes ...

  19. CONSUMO DE FIBRA DIETÉTICA EN LACTANTES MENORES DE 2 AÑOS Y ESTREÑIMIENTO FUNCIONAL

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Carlos Alberto Velasco Benítez

    2014-09-01

    Full Text Available Introducción: La inclusión de la fibra dietética (FD, tiene múltiples beneficios sobre la salud del ser humano; sin embargo, en pediatría, existen grandes brechas concernientes a la relación de fibra y estreñimiento. Objetivo: Describir el hábito intestinal en lactantes . Se tuvo en cuenta la alimentación con leche materna, el tiempo de inicio de alimentación complementaria y el antecedente de madre o cuidador con EF. Los resultados son expresados como X±DS. El análisis estadístico incluyó X2 y prueba de Spearman  o Fischer. Resultados: Se estudiaron 125 lactantes de 13±7 meses, 86 masculinos. No hubo diferencias significativas en edad, sexo, consumo de gramos de fibra/d, ni con la alimentación con leche materna, el tiempo de inicio de la alimentación complementaria y el antecedente de madre o cuidador con EF. Conclusión: No encontramos ninguna asociación entre hábito intestinal y gramos de fibra consumidos, ni alimentación con leche materna, inicio de la alimentación complementaria precoz y antecedente de EF en la madre o cuidador.

  20. Comportamiento mecánico y dinámico de una mezcla asfáltica con adición de fibras

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Oscar Javier Reyes Ortiz

    2005-01-01

    Full Text Available El artículo refiere el análisis experimental en el laboratorio, del efecto de la adición de fibras de polipropileno por vía seca (reemplazo de material granular por fibra sobre las propiedades mecánicas y dinámicas de una mezcla. Inicialmente se caracteriza el material granular y asfalto CA60/70, se realiza el diseño de la mezcla asfáltica de granulometría 0/10 (IDU RSV 2002 y asfalto de acuerdo con la metodología Marshall; se evalúa el efecto de fibras sobre las propiedades mecánicas mediante la evaluación de la estabilidad y fluencia, y dinámicamente por su valor de deformación permanente y modulo dinámico. Los resultados muestran un efecto positivo de las fibras en la modificación de la mezcla asfáltica. El modulo dinámico aumenta en un 45% promedio en un porcentaje de adición de 0.60%; la deformación permanente disminuye en 27.6% para una adición de fibras de 0.60% y 48.8% para la adición de fibras de 0.75%, respectivamente. Este comportamiento refleja otra alternativa eficaz para mejorar la mezcla asfáltica, aumentando la resistencia a la disgregación por efecto abrasivo del tráfico y retardando el inicio y propagación del agrietamiento por ahuellamiento

  1. Obtención de fibra dietética nutricional de valor agregado a partir de bagazo de caña

    OpenAIRE

    Licona Aguilar, Angeles Iveth

    2013-01-01

    La fibra dietética se reconoce cada vez más como un elemento importante para una nutrición sana; numerosas referencias respaldan esta aseveración en las que se ha demostrado no solo la importancia que la fibra tiene en la regulación de las funciones intestinales sino también para la prevención de algunas enfermedades. En este contexto, tiene sentido analizar la posibilidad de aprovechar la potencial utilización que brindan numerosos residuos agrícolas como fuente de fibra en una gran variedad...

  2. A Case of Neuromyelitis Optica Masquerading as Miller Fisher Syndrome

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Yuka Furutani

    2014-10-01

    Full Text Available A 22-year-old woman presented with double vision that she had experienced since an infection 2 weeks previously. A neurological examination showed limited bilateral eye abduction, mimicking Miller Fisher syndrome. However, T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging of her brain revealed hyperintense areas in the tegmentum of the pons, including the abducens nucleus, and her serum anti-aquaporin-4 antibody test was positive. She was finally diagnosed with neuromyelitis optica. Intravenous high-dose steroid therapy immediately improved the patient's abduction palsy, but bilateral optic neuritis manifested during the treatment. Subsequent treatment with plasma exchange improved her optic neuritis symptoms.

  3. Feixes de fibras Lignocelulósicas refinadas mecanicamente em compósitos cimentícios para avaliação da resistência à tração

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Flávio Airton knuth

    2017-07-01

    Full Text Available As fibras vegetais têm características particulares em relação a outros tipos de fibras usadas em compósitos. Os estudos utilizam, em sua maioria, fibras cuja lignina fora previamente removida pelo processo de polpação. Segundo a literatura, a lignina prejudica a ancoragem fibra-matriz. No entanto, sem a lignina, é necessário que seja feito tratamento superficial no conjunto fibroso. Isso por que as fibras sofrem processo de inchamento e retração no interior da matriz devido a seu caráter hidrofílico, o que diminui sua vida útil. No entanto, a despeito das considerações literárias, esse trabalho se propõe a fazer uso da vantagem de proteção, estruturação e impermeabilização que a lignina exerce sobre as fibras vegetais. Isso implica na necessidade de suprir a redução da resistência do compósito, especialmente à tração, que a lignina causa pela sua atuação negativa na ancoragem fibra-matriz. Para tanto, fibras lignocelulósicas extraídas de talos de banana foram submetidas a processo de refinamento mecânico. Segundo a literatura, a fibra sofre modificações na sua parede externa quando submetida a esse refinamento. Ao final do processo, foram obtidas fibras com formato helicoidal e superfície corrugada o que resultou em maior aderência no conjunto fibra-matriz. As fibras submetidas ao maior grau de refinamento aumentaram a resistência do compósito à tração na compressão diametral em 40% em relação a corpo de prova de cimento puro.

  4. Comportamiento al corte de hormigones reforzado con fibras de acero Shear behavior of steel fiber reinforced concretes

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Sergio Carmona Malatesta

    2009-01-01

    Full Text Available En este artículo se presentan los resultados de un estudio experimental a cerca de la influencia de la incorporación de fibras de acero en el comportamiento del hormigón frente a esfuerzos de corte, medidos utilizando el ensayo JSCE - SF6, modificado. Usando los resultados de los ensayos realizados se evalúa La capacidad de disipación de energía del hormigón durante la rotura o tenacidad del hormigón reforzado con fibras en función del contenido y tipo de Fibra utilizada. Con los resultados obtenidos, se puede concluir que la incorporación de fibras como refuerzo al esfuerzo de corte aumenta la ductilidad del hormigón, permitiendo mayores deformaciones que un hormigón convencional. Se observa que la capacidad de absorber energía de los hormigones, cuantificada a través de la tenacidad absoluta, se incrementa más de tres veces cuando se incorporar fibras y no se tienen roturas frágiles. Por lo tanto, la incorporación de fibras como refuerzo es una buena solución para mejorar la respuesta del hormigón ante solicitaciones de corte. Por otra parte, se demuestra que el ensayo de corte propuesto por la recomendación japonesa JSCE-SF6, levemente modificada, entrega resultados coherentes y reproducibles, permitiendo cuantificar diferentes propiedades del hormigón reforzado con fibras sometido a solicitaciones de corte.This paper presents the results of an experimental research on influence of steel fibers on shear behavior of concrete, using modified JSCE - SF6 test. The tests results are used to evaluate the energy dissipation capacity of concrete during failure or fiber reinforced concrete toughness, in terms of amount and type of fibers. With the results, it can be concluded that the addition of fibers as shear reinforcement influence significantly the ductility of concrete. The results show that the absorption energy capacity of concrete, measured by mean of absolute toughness, increase 3 times when concrete is reinforced with

  5. Neuromyelitis Optica: A Case Report

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Wei-Chia Chia

    2010-12-01

    Full Text Available Neuromyelitis optica (NMO, Devic's syndrome is a demyelinating disease of the central nervous system that predominantly affects the spinal cord and optic nerves. It is often confused with multiple sclerosis. Early discrimination between NMO and multiple sclerosis is important because the two diseases have different natural histories and treatment regimens. Seropositivity for NMO-IgG and longitudinally extensive spinal cord lesions (3 or more spinal segments are characteristic of NMO. Despite the absence of a definitive therapeutic strategy for NMO syndrome, methylprednisolone pulse therapy is recommended in the acute phase. Treatment strategies in relapse phases are aimed at preventing relapses, and increasing evidence shows a better clinical response of immunosuppressive therapy than immuno-modulating therapy (a standard multiple sclerosis-modulating therapy. We describe a 10-year-old girl who had visual loss due to acute optic neuritis at 6 years old and suffered repetitive myelitis 2 years later. NMO was diagnosed because of characteristic longitudinal myelitis and positive NMO-IgG. After combining therapy with prednisolone and an immunosuppressant (cyclophosphamide, the patient's medical condition was stable and no relapse symptoms were observed.

  6. Variación de la estructura fina de las fibras acrílicas en la hilatura

    OpenAIRE

    Gacén Guillén, Joaquín; Maillo Garrido, Josefina; Manich i Bou, Albert Mª; Ussmane, Mahomed

    2002-01-01

    [ESP] Dos fibras acrílicas comerciales de diferente finura han sido transformadas en hilados en continua de hilar (3.3. dtex) y en hilatura de rotor (1.3 dtex). Los hilos resultantes han sido vaporizados y teñidos en condiciones standard. Las variaciones de la estructura producidas por las operaciones de hilatura, vaporizado y tintura han sido evaluadas a través del ensayo de solubilidad de las fibras acrílicas en una mezcla dimetilformamida/agua (95/5).

  7. Change in autoantibody and cytokine responses during the evolution of neuromyelitis optica in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus

    DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

    Kovacs, Katalin T; Kalluri, Sudhakar Reddy; Boza-Serrano, Antonio

    2016-01-01

    BACKGROUND: Neuromyelitis optica (NMO)-systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) association is a rare condition characterized by multiple autoantibodies. OBJECTIVE: To examine if, during the evolution of NMO, anti-AQP4 responses are part of polyclonal B cell activation, and if T cell responses contribute...

  8. Convergence spasm due to aquaporin-positive neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Pınar Özçelik

    2017-06-01

    Full Text Available A female 27 presented with nausea and diplopia for 1 week. On examination she had normal vertical gaze but would develop convergence with miosis whenever she made horizontal saccades. Pupils were 6 mm and unreactive to light. MRI showed extensive hyperintensity in the dorsal midbrain and thalamus. Spinal MRI and CSF were both normal. Serum aquaporin-4-antibody was positive. She was treated with steroids and plasmapheresis and after 3 months convergence spasm resolved but pupils remained unreactive. Neuromyelitis optica often presents with brainstem signs, rarely a dorsal midbrain syndrome. Convergence spasm is occasionally of organic neurologic origin.

  9. Autoantibodies in patients with neuromyelitis optica

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Xin FAN

    2016-10-01

    Full Text Available Neuromyelitis optica (NMO is an autoimmune disease of the central nervous system (CNS which primarily involves the optic nerve and spinal cord. Aquaporin 4 (AQP4 is the main objective antigen, and its specific antibody was NMO-IgG. It was found in clinic that most of NMO-IgG-positive patients were female, whose clinical symptoms were more severe, bilateral optic neuritis (BON or optic neuritis (ON and myelitis were more likely to appear at the same time, and involved spinal segments were longer. Recent studies discovered that anti-aquaporin 1 (AQP1 and anti-myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG antibodies existed in the serum of patients with NMO-IgG-negative. It was discovered that low proportions of women, more cases of long-segment spinal cord lesion, and rare cases of ON appeared in anti-AQP1 antibody-positive patients. Most of anti-MOG antibody-positive patients were male. ON was common, especially bilateral optic nerves involved at the same time, and thoracolumbar involvement was common. DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.1672-6731.2016.10.004

  10. Variación de la estructura fina de las fibras acrílicas en la hilatura

    OpenAIRE

    Gacén Guillén, Joaquín; Maillo Garrido, Josefina; Manich i Bou, Albert Mª; Ussmane, Mahomed

    2002-01-01

    Dos fibras acrílicas comerciales de diferente finura han sido transformadas en hilados en continua de hilar (3.3. dtex) y en hilatura de rotor (1.3 dtex). Los hilos resultantes han sido vaporizados y teñidos en condiciones standard. Las variaciones de la estructura producidas por las operaciones de hilatura, vaporizado y tintura han sido evaluadas a través del ensayo de solubilidad de las fibras acrílicas en una mezcla dimetilformamida/agua (95/5). Two commercial acrylic fibres of d...

  11. Neuromyelitis optica presenting with horner syndrome: A case report and review of literature.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Uludağ, İrem Fatma; Sarıteke, Alp; Öcek, Levent; Zorlu, Yaşar; Şener, Ufuk; Tokuçoğlu, Figen; Uludağ, Burhanettin

    2017-05-01

    Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) is a demyelinating disease of the central nervous system that predominantly affects the spinal cord and optic nerves. We describe a 19 years old woman with left Horner syndrome (HS), who was diagnosed as NMO with characteristic longitudinally extensive myelitis and positive serum aquaporin-4 immunoglobulin G antibodies (AQP4-IgG). Our report describes one of the very rare ocular motor symptoms in NMO patients. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  12. Hernia hiatal y su relación con la ingestión de fibra dietética

    OpenAIRE

    Rodríguez Miranda, Adelaida; González-Carbajal Pascual, Miguel; Naranjo Hernández, Daysi; Valdés Alonso, Lidunka; Companioni Acosta, Susana

    1995-01-01

    Se estudiaron 226 pacientes con diagnóstico de hernia hiatal por radiología, endoscopia y manometría esofágica y 200 controles normales para determinar la cantidad de fibra dietética ingerida y su relación con la hernia hiatal. Se encontró que los pacientes que presentaron hernia hiatal consumían menos cantidad de fibra dietética que los controles, lo cual fue demostrado estadísticamente.

  13. Método para la formulación de hormigones de fibras metálicas

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Serna Ros, Pedro

    1984-06-01

    Full Text Available In the work we are presenting, we have set ourselves the target of determining a practical method for ascertaining the dosage of fibrous concrete. To do this, as in any problem regarding dosage, we shall start from the possibilities of supply, which will be conditioned by the nature of the aggregates to be used, of certain technical restrictions imposed by the admixtures and of the carrying out requirements which will set the concrete workability. The first part of our study amounts to determining the optimal percentages for each aggregate and the water-cement ratio, starting with the dosage of cement established initially and for each fibre content proposed. In the second part, we shall develop the study of acceptable limits of fibre content, in order to prevent 'balls of fibre' from forming.

    En los trabajos que presentamos nos hemos planteado el objetivo de determinar un método práctico de dosificación de hormigones de fibras. Para ello partiremos, como en cualquier problema de dosificación, de unas posibilidades de suministro que nos condicionarán la naturaleza de los áridos a utilizar, de unas limitaciones técnicas impuestas por los aditivos, y de unas necesidades de puesta en obra que nos fijarán la trabajabilidad del hormigón. La primera parte de nuestro trabajo se reduce a determinar, a partir de la dosificación en cemento fijada inicialmente, y para cada contenido en fibras propuesto, los porcentajes óptimos de cada uno de los áridos y la relación agua/cemento. En la segunda parte desarrollaremos el estudio de los límites admisibles del contenido en fibras, para evitar la formación de "pelotas de fibras".

  14. Papel de la fibra dietética en la prevención de las enfermedades cardiovasculares

    OpenAIRE

    María Zurdo Seijas, Claudia

    2015-01-01

    Las enfermedades cardiovasculares constituyen una de las principales causas de muerte en España. Casi todos los factores de riesgo cardiovascular son modificables, ya que tienen relación con el estilo de vida, y más concretamente, con la alimentación. La relación entre el consumo de fibra y las enfermedades cardiovasculares ha sido muy estudiada, tanto a través de ensayos clínicos como en los grandes estudios de cohortes. El objetivo de este trabajo es describir los tipos de fibra dietética q...

  15. Concreto autoadensável reforçado com fibras de aço: comportamento à flexão

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    A. R. Barros

    Full Text Available Este estudo foi desenvolvido para avaliar o comportamento de vigas de concreto autoadensável (CAA reforçado com fibras de aço submetidas à flexão. Para tal, foram utilizadas fibras de aço com fator l/d = 50, em uma fração volumétrica de 1%. Foram confeccionadas vigas armadas de dimensões (12,5 x 23,5 x 132 cm, as quais foram ensaiadas por flexão a quatro pontos, aos 28 dias de idade, sendo feitas medições das deformações apresentadas nos estribos e armadura longitudinal, além de medições das deformações do concreto na região comprimida e das flechas no meio do vão. Os resultados dos ensaios mostraram que a adição das fibras de aço ao CAA promoveu sensível ganho na capacidade resistente da viga, com menores flechas, menores deformações das armaduras, longitudinal e transversal, e melhorado controle da fissuração, em comparação às demais vigas produzidas com concretos convencionais, com e sem fibras de aço.

  16. Molecular Pathogenesis of Neuromyelitis Optica

    Science.gov (United States)

    Bukhari, Wajih; Barnett, Michael H; Prain, Kerri; Broadley, Simon A

    2012-01-01

    Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) is a rare autoimmune disorder, distinct from multiple sclerosis, causing inflammatory lesions in the optic nerves and spinal cord. An autoantibody (NMO IgG) against aquaporin-4 (AQP4), a water channel expressed on astrocytes is thought to be causative. Peripheral production of the antibody is triggered by an unknown process in genetically susceptible individuals. Anti-AQP4 antibody enters the central nervous system (CNS) when the blood brain barrier is made permeable and has high affinity for orthogonal array particles of AQP4. Like other autoimmune diseases, Th17 cells and their effector cytokines (such as interleukin 6) have been implicated in pathogenesis. AQP4 expressing peripheral organs are not affected by NMO IgG, but the antibody causes extensive astrocytic loss in specific regions of the CNS through complement mediated cytotoxicity. Demyelination occurs during the inflammatory process and is probably secondary to oligodendrocyte apoptosis subsequent to loss of trophic support from astrocytes. Ultimately, extensive axonal injury leads to severe disability. Despite rapid advances in the understanding of NMO pathogenesis, unanswered questions remain, particularly with regards to disease mechanisms in NMO IgG seronegative cases. Increasing knowledge of the molecular pathology is leading to improved treatment strategies. PMID:23202933

  17. Investigação sobre a eficiência da fibra de vidro e da fibra cerâmica como suporte de solda na soldagem unilateral Investigation over the eficiency of fiber glass and ceramic fiber as weld support in one-sided welding

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Luiz Cláudio Tatagiba

    2011-12-01

    Full Text Available O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar uma nova categoria de suporte de solda para a soldagem unilateral do aço carbono, usando tecidos de fibra de vidro e fibra cerâmica. Trata-se de uma proposta de inovação tecnológica, uma evolução do suporte cerâmico convencional. A soldagem unilateral com este tipo de suporte de solda foi executada em chapas de aço carbono com arame tubular (FCAW e MIG-MAG (GMAW. A eficiência da fibra de vidro e da fibra cerâmica em suportar o metal de solda líquido foi verificada durante a soldagem do passe de raiz. Várias espessuras e combinações de tecidos de fibra de vidro e fibra cerâmica foram testadas, bem como foram identificados pontos de trabalho. As seguintes variáveis do processo foram estudadas: a abertura de raiz, a corrente e a velocidade de soldagem. Os resultados mostram que os materiais à base de fibra de vidro e fibra cerâmica são eficientes para suportar a poça de solda líquida. O modo de fixação do suporte de solda na junta soldada também mostrou ser efetivo. Foi possível estimar uma faixa de operação do processo, com abertura de raiz de 2,0 a 4,0 mm, a energia de soldagem menor que 1,8 kJ/mm, a técnica de soldagem ligeiramente puxando e com pequena oscilação da tocha, espessura do suporte de solda de tecido de fibra de vidro maior que 1,6 mm. Macrogafias da juntas soldadas mostraram que houve penetração nas laterais do chanfro, reforço de solda adequado na raiz e não foram notados defeitos.The objective of this work was to evaluate a new chategory of weld support for the one-sided welding of carbon steel, using fiber glass and ceramic fiber tissues. This is a proposal of techonological innovation proposed, an evolution of the conventional ceramic support. The one-sided welding with this type of weld support was made in carbon steel with FCAW and GMAW. The efficiency of fiber glass and ceramic fiber was verified during the root weld bead. Several thicknesses and

  18. A systematic analysis of the complement pathways in patients with neuromyelitis optica indicates alteration but no activation during remission

    DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

    Veszeli, Nóra; Füst, György; Csuka, Dorottya

    2014-01-01

    Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) is an autoimmune demyelinating inflammatory disorder, mediated by pathogenic autoantibodies against aquaporin 4 (AQP4), the main water channel of the central nervous system (CNS). NMO is characterized by local IgG deposition and complement activation within the CNS...

  19. Sudden onset of sleep due to hypothalamic lesions in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder positive for anti-aquaporin-4 antibody.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Okuma, H; Matsumura, K; Hatanaka, Y; Saito, F; Sonoo, M

    2014-09-01

    We report a patient with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders who presented with sudden onset of sleep as the sole manifestation. Magnetic resonance imaging investigation revealed lesions in the hypothalamus bilaterally, which vanished completely after methylprednisolone pulse therapy. © The Author(s) 2014.

  20. COMPORTAMIENTO DEL CONCRETO REFORZADO CON FIBRAS DE ACERO ZP-306 SOMETIDO A ESFUERZOS DE COMPRESIÓN

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Lina P. Gallo-Arciniegas

    2013-01-01

    Full Text Available En Colombia, el uso del concreto reforzado con fibras de acero (CRFA es muy limitado, debido a que en el país no existe suficiente evidencia experimental y requisitos reglamentarios al respecto. En el artículo se presentan los resultados de una investigación experimental y analítica sobre el comportamiento del CRFA elaborado con fibras ZP-306, sometidas a esfuerzos de compresión. El estudio involucra la revisión y discusión de los modelos disponibles en la literatura, así como un programa experimental que incluye el ensayo de 48 especímenes. A partir de un análisis de regresión de los datos medidos, se proponen ecuaciones para estimar las principales propiedades mecánicas del CRFA, tales como resistencia a compresión, módulo de elasticidad y relación de Poisson. Las ecuaciones correlacionan las propiedades mecánicas con las principales características de las fibras de acero, tales como dosificación y relación de aspecto.

  1. Visual evoked potentials in neuromyelitis optica and its spectrum disorders.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Ringelstein, Marius; Kleiter, Ingo; Ayzenberg, Ilya; Borisow, Nadja; Paul, Friedemann; Ruprecht, Klemens; Kraemer, Markus; Cohn, Eva; Wildemann, Brigitte; Jarius, Sven; Hartung, Hans-Peter; Aktas, Orhan; Albrecht, Philipp

    2014-04-01

    Optic neuritis (ON) is a key feature of neuromyelitis optica (NMO). Recently, NMO patients of predominantly Afro-Brazilian origin were evaluated by visual evoked potentials (VEPs) and showed marked amplitude reductions. Here, we analyzed VEPs in a predominantly Caucasian cohort, consisting of 43 patients with definite NMO, 18 with anti-aquaporin (AQP) 4 antibody-seropositive NMO spectrum disorders and 61 matched healthy controls. We found reduced amplitudes in only 12.3%, prolonged latencies in 41.9% and a lack of response in 14.0% of NMO eyes. Delayed P100 latencies in eyes without prior ON suggested this was a subclinical affection. The data indicate heterogenous patterns in NMO, warranting further investigation.

  2. Propiedades mecánicas de bandejas elaboradas con almidón de especies vegetales nativas y fibras de residuos agroindustriales

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Miguel Espina

    2016-01-01

    Full Text Available El objetivo de este trabajo fue evaluar el efecto de las fibras naturales obtenidas de residuos agroindustriales en la densidad, el gramaje y las propiedades mecánicas de las espumas termoprensadas elaboradas de almidón de especies nativas, como lo son el camote, la oca y la arracacha. El proceso de termoformado se llevó a cabo a una temperatura de 145 °C y una presión de 60 bar. El tiempo de horneado fue de 10 - 15 min dependiendo del contenido de agua en la mezcla. Las bandejas fueron caracterizadas por su densidad, gramaje, ensayo de impacto, ensayos de deflexión, colorimetría y sus valores de dureza y fracturabilidad. Las bandejas elaboradas por termopresión a base de almidón de camote - fibra de bagazo de caña de azúcar al 15%, y de almidón de arracacha- fibra peladilla de espárrago al 30% presentaron mayores valores en resistencia a la flexión frente a las elaboradas con otros tipos de almidones y fibras, incluyendo a pruebas en blanco. De manera general, la dureza de las bandejas se ve favorecida con el increme nto de fibra, sin embargo, la fracturabilidad decrece o no mejora la integridad de la matriz polimérica. Los resultados mostrados en esta investigación permitirán la elaboración de bandejas biodegradables para distintas aplicaciones industriales.

  3. Protective effect of an elastase inhibitor in a neuromyelitis optica-like disease driven by a peptide of myelin oligodendroglial glycoprotein.

    NARCIS (Netherlands)

    Herges, K.; Jong, B.A. de; Kolkowitz, I.; Dunn, C.; Mandelbaum, G.; Ko, R.M.; Maini, A.; Han, M.H.; Killestein, J.; Polman, C.; Goodyear, A.L.; Dunn, J.; Steinman, L.; Axtell, R.C.

    2012-01-01

    BACKGROUND: The pathology of neuromyelitis optica (NMO), in contrast to multiple sclerosis, comprises granulocyte infiltrates along extensive lengths of spinal cord, as well as optic nerve. Furthermore, IFN-beta treatment worsens NMO. We recently found that experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis

  4. Conocimiento y hábitos en relación a la fibra dietética: resultados preliminaries

    OpenAIRE

    Leal, Marcela; Carranza, C; Herrera, J; Guiné, Raquel

    2015-01-01

    Introducción. El consumo de fibra dietética, y el conocimiento de sus beneficios son fundamentales en el cambio de conducta alimentaria para la prevención de ECNT. Objetivo. Describir los hábitos de consumo de alimentos con fibra dietética y el nivel de conocimiento. Metodología. Estudio cuantitativo, descriptivo, no experimental transversal, parte del proyecto internacional del Instituto Politécnico (Portugal) donde participan 10 países. Muestra no probabilística por voluntarios de 8...

  5. Seronegative Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder following Exposure to Hepatitis B Vaccination

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Richard Heekin

    2015-04-01

    Full Text Available Controversy exists regarding a potential link between exposure to recombinant hepatitis B vaccine (HBV and central nervous system demyelinating diseases. Here, we present a case of seronegative neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD following exposure to HBV. A 28-year-old man developed painful eye movements 11 days after exposure to HBV. Within 24 h, he experienced vision loss, ascending numbness, and ataxia. T-spine MRI showed a cord lesion spanning T6-T9. Brain MRI showed bilateral optic nerve contrast enhancement and a right-sided internal capsule lesion. Cerebrospinal fluid analysis was normal, including negative oligoclonal bands and normal IgG index. AQP4-IgG serology was negative. The patient's visual symptoms improved after treatment with steroids and plasma exchange. He received plasma exchange weekly for 4 weeks with decreased numbness and tingling as well as improved coordination. Treatment with mycophenolate mofetil was started, and the patient remains clinically stable with near resolution of his prior symptoms. Neuromyelitis optica is characterized by optic neuritis and/or longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis. While our patient tested seronegative for AQP4-IgG (which remains negative in 10-50% of NMOSD cases, despite testing with the most sensitive assays available, he did meet NMOSD diagnostic criteria. In a literature review, we found 7 cases of NMOSD onset or relapse associated with exposure to various vaccines, but to our knowledge this represents the first published report of NMOSD onset following exposure to HBV. While causality between vaccination and CNS demyelinating disease remains elusive, it is important to report these cases to help develop safer vaccinations and provoke further inquiry into the pathogenesis of NMOSD.

  6. Estudio espectroscópico de la radiación electromagnética ultravioleta, visible e infrarroja cercana sobre la obra pictórica.

    OpenAIRE

    D'ANTONI, PABLO LUIS

    2013-01-01

    La Tesis "Estudio Espectroscópico de la Radiación Electromagnética, Ultravioleta Visible e Infrarroja cercana sobre la Obra Pictórica" de Pablo D'Antoni desarrolla un método no invasivo para caracterizar, medir y predecir daños a los pigmentos y aglutinantes en obras pictóricas, probablemente por la radiación electromagnética (REM). Usando 3 formas de Espectroscopia: 1) Irradiancia, 2) FORS(Espectroscopía de Reflectancia (y Absorbancia) con Fibra Optica, se analizan los efectos producidos por...

  7. ESTUDO DA SECAGEM DA FIBRA RESIDUAL DO ABACAXI

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    T. G. M. WAUGHON

    2009-01-01

    Full Text Available

    O objetivo deste trabalho foi caracterizar o resíduo fibroso gerado na industrialização do suco de abacaxi (Ananas comosus L. e estudar seu beneficiamento, através da secagem, visando obter um produto rico em fibras dietéticas. O resíduo caracterizado apresentou um elevado teor de fibras (32,95% b.s.. A secagem foi realizada em secador de leito fixo, em camada delgada, utilizando planejamento fatorial completo a três níveis, com triplicata no ponto central. As variáveis de entrada foram: temperatura (50 ºC, 60 ºC e 70ºC e velocidade de circulação do ar (2,0 m/s; 2,5 m/s e 3,0 m/s. As variáveis de resposta avaliadas foram: umidade de equilíbrio, tempo de secagem, taxa de secagem à velocidade constante e coloração do produto. Os resultados obtidos através da análise de variância mostraram que a temperatura foi a variável de entrada que apresentou maior influência sobre as variáveis de resposta analisadas, não exercendo influência significativa apenas sobre a cor do produto.

  8. CONSUMO DE FIBRA DIETÉTICA EN LACTANTES MENORES DE 2 AÑOS Y ESTREÑIMIENTO FUNCIONAL

    OpenAIRE

    Carlos Alberto Velasco Benítez; Sandra Carolina Giraldo Lora

    2014-01-01

    Introducción: La inclusión de la fibra dietética (FD), tiene múltiples beneficios sobre la salud del ser humano; sin embargo, en pediatría, existen grandes brechas concernientes a la relación de fibra y estreñimiento. Objetivo: Describir el hábito intestinal en lactantes . Se tuvo en cuenta la alimentación con leche materna, el tiempo de inicio de alimentación complementaria y el antecedente de madre o cuidador con EF. Los resultados son expresados como X±DS. El análisis estadístico incluyó X...

  9. Modificação da rugosidade de fibras de carbono por método químico para aplicação em compósitos poliméricos

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Burakowski Liliana

    2001-01-01

    Full Text Available O presente trabalho aborda o tratamento superficial de fibras de carbono por ácidos clorídrico e nítrico, visando o aumento controlado da rugosidade superficial da fibra e assim melhorar a ligação fibra/matriz no processamento de compósitos poliméricos reforçados com fibras longas. Foram utilizadas fibras de carbono com size, da empresa Toray. Essas foram tratadas com os ácidos clorídrico e nítrico, a 103°C, em concentrações de 35,5 % e 97 %, em massa, respectivamente, em tempos de exposição de 5, 10, 20, 30, 40 e 60 minutos. As fibras modificadas quimicamente foram caracterizadas por microscopia eletrônica de varredura e por ensaios mecânicos de tração e os dados foram tratados pelo método estatístico de Weibull. Os resultados mostram que os tratamentos empregados modificam a superfície da fibra e que períodos de tratamento superiores a 20 minutos as danificam, degradando de maneira significativa as suas propriedades mecânicas.

  10. Depressive state and chronic fatigue in multiple sclerosis and neuromyelitis optica.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Akaishi, Tetsuya; Nakashima, Ichiro; Misu, Tatsuro; Fujihara, Kazuo; Aoki, Masashi

    2015-06-15

    Depression and chronic fatigue are frequently present in multiple sclerosis (MS); however, the prevalence rates have not been investigated in neuromyelitis optica (NMO). Thirty-nine consecutive NMO and 75 MS patients were compared using self-rating questionnaires for depressive states, daily activity, and fatigue, as well as serum carnitine levels. A subgroup of patients with low carnitine levels were re-evaluated regarding depression and fatigue after levocarnitine treatment. Depression and fatigue were equally prevalent in MS and NMO and were strongly correlated with one another. Measurement of the serum carnitine levels and the administration of levocarnitine did not appear to be beneficial. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  11. Brain MRI abnormalities in neuromyelitis optica

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Wang Fei, E-mail: feiwang1973@gmail.com [Department of Radiology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital University of Medical Sciences, 45 Chang-Chun St, Xuanwu District, Beijing 100053 (China); Liu Yaou, E-mail: asiaeurope80@gmail.com [Department of Radiology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital University of Medical Sciences, 45 Chang-Chun St, Xuanwu District, Beijing 100053 (China); Duan Yunyun, E-mail: duanyun2003@sohu.com [Department of Radiology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital University of Medical Sciences, 45 Chang-Chun St, Xuanwu District, Beijing 100053 (China); Li Kuncheng, E-mail: kunchengli@yahoo.com.cn [Department of Radiology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital University of Medical Sciences, 45 Chang-Chun St, Xuanwu District, Beijing 100053 (China); Education Ministry Key Laboratory for Neurodegenerative Disease, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital University of Medical Sciences, 45 Chang-Chun St, Xuanwu District, Beijing 100053 (China)

    2011-11-15

    Objective: The purpose of this study was to explore brain MRI findings in neuromyelitis optica (NMO) and to investigate specific brain lesions with respect to the localization of aquaporin-4 (AQP-4). Materials and methods: Forty admitted patients (36 women) who satisfied the 2006 criteria of Wingerchuk et al. for NMO were included in this study. All patients received a neurological examination and MRI scanning including brain and spinal cord. MRIs were classified as normal, nonspecific, multiple sclerosis-like, typical abnormalities. MS-like lesions were too few to satisfy the Barkhof et al. criteria for MS. Confluent lesions involving high AQP-4 regions were considered typical. Non-enhancing deep white matter lesions other than MS-like lesions or typical lesions were classified as nonspecific. Results: Brain MRI lesions were delineated in 12 patients (25%). Four patients (10%) had hypothalamus, brainstem or periventricle lesions. Six (15%) patients were nonspecific, and 2 (5%) patients had multiple sclerosis-like lesions. Conclusion: Brain MRIs are negative in most NMO, and brain lesions do not exclude the diagnosis of NMO. Hypothalamus, brainstem or periventricle lesions, corresponding to high sites of AQP-4 in the brain, are indicative of lesions of NMO.

  12. Brain MRI abnormalities in neuromyelitis optica

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Wang Fei; Liu Yaou; Duan Yunyun; Li Kuncheng

    2011-01-01

    Objective: The purpose of this study was to explore brain MRI findings in neuromyelitis optica (NMO) and to investigate specific brain lesions with respect to the localization of aquaporin-4 (AQP-4). Materials and methods: Forty admitted patients (36 women) who satisfied the 2006 criteria of Wingerchuk et al. for NMO were included in this study. All patients received a neurological examination and MRI scanning including brain and spinal cord. MRIs were classified as normal, nonspecific, multiple sclerosis-like, typical abnormalities. MS-like lesions were too few to satisfy the Barkhof et al. criteria for MS. Confluent lesions involving high AQP-4 regions were considered typical. Non-enhancing deep white matter lesions other than MS-like lesions or typical lesions were classified as nonspecific. Results: Brain MRI lesions were delineated in 12 patients (25%). Four patients (10%) had hypothalamus, brainstem or periventricle lesions. Six (15%) patients were nonspecific, and 2 (5%) patients had multiple sclerosis-like lesions. Conclusion: Brain MRIs are negative in most NMO, and brain lesions do not exclude the diagnosis of NMO. Hypothalamus, brainstem or periventricle lesions, corresponding to high sites of AQP-4 in the brain, are indicative of lesions of NMO.

  13. Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disease characteristics in Isfahan, Iran: A cross-sectional study

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Fereshte Ashtari

    2017-01-01

    Full Text Available Background: Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disease (NMOSD is a severe autoimmune demyelinating disorder of the central nervous system that throughout epidemiological data, it has not been completely determined. The aim of this study was to assess characteristics of NMOSD patients in Isfahan as one of the most prevalent cities for multiple sclerosis in Iran. Materials and Methods: Forty-five patients diagnosed as neuromyelitis optica (NMO disease through 5 years enrolled in this study. Demographics and characteristics of disease such as Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS score, disease duration, clinical symptoms, laboratory data, and magnetic resonance imaging findings (including T1, T2, and flair protocols were recorded. NMO-immunoglobulin G serology assay was done in all of the patients by ELISA test. Results: Female to male ratio was 5.4:1. The mean age of disease onset was 29.8 ± 11.2 years. NMO antibody was positive in 24.4% of patients. The presenting symptoms were optic neuritis (55.5%, transverse myelitis (40%, and brainstem symptoms (4.5%. The interval between the first and second attack was 19.28 ± 31.27 months (range: 1 month to 17 years. The mean EDSS score of the patients was 2.8 ± 2.25. Frequency of long-extending cervical plaque was higher among men than women (85.7% vs. 57.9%. Conclusion: Based on this study, the mean age of NMOSD onset among Isfahan population was considerably lower than other studies, and there was higher frequency of long-extending cervical lesion among male patients which needs more consideration in further studies.

  14. Enhancing Brain Lesions during Acute Optic Neuritis and/or Longitudinally Extensive Transverse Myelitis May Portend a Higher Relapse Rate in Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorders.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Orman, G; Wang, K Y; Pekcevik, Y; Thompson, C B; Mealy, M; Levy, M; Izbudak, I

    2017-05-01

    Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders are inflammatory demyelinating disorders with optic neuritis and/or longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis episodes. We now know that neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders are associated with antibodies to aquaporin-4, which are highly concentrated on astrocytic end-feet at the blood-brain barrier. Immune-mediated disruption of the blood-brain barrier may manifest as contrast enhancement on brain MR imaging. We aimed to delineate the extent and frequency of contrast enhancement on brain MR imaging within 1 month of optic neuritis and/or longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis attacks and to correlate contrast enhancement with outcome measures. Brain MRIs of patients with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders were evaluated for patterns of contrast enhancement (periependymal, cloudlike, leptomeningeal, and so forth). The Fisher exact test was used to evaluate differences between the proportion of contrast enhancement in patients who were seropositive and seronegative for aquaporin-4 antibodies. The Mann-Whitney test was used to compare the annualized relapse rate and disease duration between patients with and without contrast enhancement and with and without seropositivity. Brain MRIs of 77 patients were evaluated; 59 patients (10 males, 49 females) were scanned within 1 month of optic neuritis and/or longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis attacks and were included in the analysis. Forty-eight patients were seropositive, 9 were seronegative, and 2 were not tested for aquaporin-4 antibodies. Having brain contrast enhancement of any type during an acute attack was significantly associated with higher annualized relapse rates ( P = .03) and marginally associated with shorter disease duration ( P = .05). Having periependymal contrast enhancement was significantly associated with higher annualized relapse rates ( P = .03). Brain MRIs of patients with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders with contrast

  15. Método experimental para consolidar fibras de papel. (I parte del estudio

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Alicia De Lera Santín

    2009-08-01

    Full Text Available En este artículo describimos un nuevo método enzimático para consolidar la celulosa del papel. Este método consiste en la síntesis de la celulosa con una enzima hidrolítica: la celulasa. Ésta actúa como una sintetasa, consolidando el papel cuando es mezclada en una solución orgánica de solvente/tampón (4:1 en presencia de un sustrato (β-cellobiosyl fluoride. Para mejorar el tratamiento añadimos un gel de agar-agar con todos los reactivos necesarios. Para observar el estado de las fibras antes y después del tratamiento, realizamos test mecánicos y fotografías de microscopía electrónica de barrido. Se observó que el proceso de consolidación casi consigue recuperar el estado físico inicial de las fibras así como su resistencia al desgarre y alargamiento.

  16. Poliolefinas reforçadas com fibras vegetais curtas: sisal × curauá Polyolefins reinforced with short vegetal fibers: sisal vs. curauá

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Márcia A. S. Spinacé

    2011-01-01

    Full Text Available É crescente o interesse nos compósitos poliméricos reforçados com fibras vegetais curtas em substituição às fibras de vidro, pois as fibras naturais provêm de fontes renováveis, não são abrasivas aos equipamentos de processamento, são biodegradáveis, e possuem baixa densidade comparada às fibras de vidro. Elas apresentam início de degradação em torno de 200 °C, sendo adequadas para reforçar poliolefinas que são processadas até essa temperatura ou termofíxos. Várias fibras vegetais vêm sendo usadas como reforço, dentre elas o curauá e o sisal; no entanto, há grande controvérsia na literatura sobre as propriedades finais dos compósitos. Neste trabalho comparamos as propriedades de compósitos de polietileno de alta densidade ou polipropileno com 20% em massa de fibras curtas de sisal ou de curauá com ou sem agentes de acoplagem. Todos foram processados por extrusão e moldados por injeção, exatamente nas mesmas condições, e os resultados foram comparados em termos das propriedades mecânicas. As fibras de curauá apresentam resistência à tração superior às fibras de sisal e os compósitos com fibras de curauá apresentaram resistência à tração e flexão ligeiramente superior aos compósitos com fibra de sisal. No caso da resistência ao impacto a situação se inverte. Como o sisal é mais frágil que o curauá, durante o processamento ocorre maior quebra da fibra provocando essa diferenciação nas propriedades mecânicas dos compósitos.There is growing interest in reinforced polymer composites using short vegetal fibers to replace glass fibers for several reasons. The composite fibers are produced from renewable resources, being biodegradable and less abrasive to the processing equipment, in addition to possessing a lower density than the glass fibers. Since their thermal degradation onset is at 200 °C, they can be used to reinforce thermoplastics processed below this temperature and thermosets

  17. Crescimento inicial de mudas de Acacia mangium cultivadas em mantas de fibra de coco contendo substrato de lodo de esgoto

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Rômulo Fredson Duarte

    2011-02-01

    Full Text Available O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o crescimento inicial de mudas de Acacia mangium semeadas em "manta" de fibra de coco contendo substrato de lodo de esgoto. O delineamento experimental foi em blocos casualizados com 13 tratamentos e três repetições, distribuídos em esquema fatorial (6 x 2 + 1 com seis proporções de fibra de coco e resíduo agregante, combinados com substratos com e sem lodo de esgoto, mais o tratamento-controle (terra de subsolo. Foram avaliados o índice de velocidade de emergência (IVE, a percentagem de emergência (EM e a altura das plantas aos 40 e 60 dias após a emergência. O tratamento- controle apresentou melhores resultados em relação ao IVE e EM quando comparado com os tratamentos utilizando "manta" de fibra de coco e resíduo agregante. Não houve diferença entre o controle e os tratamentos com "mantas" em altura das plantas aos 40 e 60 dias. Não foram observadas interações entre o tipo de substrato utilizado no semeio e as diferentes proporções de fibra de coco na "manta". A presença de lodo no substrato não influenciou o IVE e a EM, contudo verificou-se que o substrato sem lodo de esgoto proporcionou maior crescimento em altura das plantas. O uso de "mantas" contendo 50 e 100% de fibra de coco proporcionou maior crescimento às mudas de acácia em condições de campo.

  18. Pulmonary tuberculosis with neuromyelitis optica: an uncommon association of a common disease

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Siddiqi, S.A.; Hashmi, M.; Azmat, Z.; Mustafa, S.; Siddiqui, K.A.

    2012-01-01

    Systemic tuberculosis has been reported with varying neurological manifestations like meningitis, tuberculomas, myositis and neuropathy. Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) is a well known neurological entity which has been described in association with several systemic disorders like systemic lupus erythematosis, diabetes mellitus, hypothyroidism, exposure to Mycobacterium tuberculosis. insecticides etc. However, only a few cases of NMO have been reported in association with Here, we report a case of pulmonary tuberculosis in association with NMO to highlight the under-reported association of NMO with pulmonary tuberculosis presenting in a peculiar anatomical fashion i.e. longitudinal myelitis with predominant posterior column involvement. (author)

  19. PROPIEDADES TÉCNICO-FUNCIONALES DE LA FIBRA DIETARIA DE CÁSCARAS DE MANGO VARIEDADHILACHA (Mangifera indica L.: EFECTO DEL SECADO POR CONVECCIÓN

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    GUSTAVO ADOLFO HINCAPIÉ LL.

    2014-06-01

    Full Text Available Un subproducto de la obtención del jugo de mango es su cáscara; la cual contiene niveles considerables de fibra dietaria que podrían ser utilizados en la elaboración de productos alimenticios, sin embargo, actualmente no es muy aprovechado. El proceso de secado prolonga la vida útil de la cascara y permite que pueda ser adicionada a otros alimentos. En este estudio, se caracterizó fisicoquímicamente la Cáscara de Mango Hilacha (CMH y se evaluó el efecto de cinco temperaturas de secado sobre las propiedades técnico-funcionales de la fibra dietaria; Capacidad de Hinchamiento (CH, Capacidad de Retención de Agua (CRA y Capacidad de Adsorción de Lípidos (CAL, características que determinan en gran medida la calidad de la fibra dietaria (FD. Los resultados obtenidos indican que la CMH tiene un contenido de fibra dietaria total, proteína, extracto etéreo, carbohidratos y fibra cruda similar al de otras variedades de mango. La cáscara de mango hilacha seca y molida (CSMH obtenida, es una promisoria fuente de FD, ya que su calidad no se vio afectada significativamente por el proceso de secado empleado en este trabajo.

  20. "Estudio tribologico de aceros para moldes. Aplicacion al moldeo por inyeccion de polibutilentereftalato reforzado con fibra de vidrio"

    Science.gov (United States)

    Martinez Mateo, Isidoro Jose

    fabricacion del molde, tienen una gran influencia sobre su comportamiento en servicio a lo largo de la vida util del molde. En la primera parte del presente estudio, a partir de ensayos punzon sobre disco, se ha determinado la relacion entre la resistencia al desgaste y la dureza de aceros para moldes obtenidos a partir de bloques de gran espesor, estudiando los principales mecanismos de desgaste que tienen lugar. A continuacion, con el fin de determinar el dano superficial que sufren los aceros para moldes en condiciones reales de inyeccion, se han estudiado distintos tipos de aceros utilizados comercialmente en moldes de inyeccion de polimeros y materiales compuestos, seleccionando las condiciones de operacion para determinar la variacion de la rugosidad superficial del acero en funcion del material inyectado, del numero de operaciones sucesivas de inyeccion y de la orientacion del flujo de inyeccion, mediante tecnicas de perfilometria optica y microscopia electronica de barrido. Ademas del dano superficial sufrido por el acero con el numero de piezas inyectadas, tambien se ha determinado la evolucion de la rugosidad superficial de los materiales inyectados, polibutilentereftalato (PBT) puro y materiales compuestos derivados de PBT por adicion de un 20 o un 50% en peso de fibra de vidrio. En el caso de las piezas inyectadas, se ha caracterizado su microestructura en funcion del flujo de inyeccion y de la densidad de fibra, se han determinado sus propiedades termicas y dinamico-mecanicas, asi como la variacion de la rugosidad superficial de las piezas inyectadas con el numero de operaciones de inyeccion y con la geometria de las distintas secciones de las piezas. Finalmente, se ha evaluado la resistencia a la abrasion de PBT reforzado con un 50% de fibra, en funcion del numero de piezas inyectadas y de la direccion de rayado con respecto a la orientacion del flujo de inyeccion.

  1. Autoimmune thyroiditis associated with neuromyelitis optica (NMO

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Sudulagunta, Sreenivasa Rao

    2015-11-01

    Full Text Available Neuromyelitis optica (NMO or Devic’s syndrome is a rare relapsing demyelinating disease of the central nervous system (CNS that mainly affects the spinal cord and optic nerves and shares many clinical and radiological features with multiple sclerosis. The association of NMO with other autoimmune diseases was reported, but very few reports described association with autoimmune thyroid disease. Early differentiation between NMO and multiple sclerosis is very important as the natural course and treatment regimens differ significantly. We report a case of a 50-year-old woman who was admitted initially with vomiting, hiccups and paraesthesias but was not diagnosed with NMO and presented with a severe progression of the disease. The patient was also diagnosed to have autoimmune thyroiditis with lymphocytic infiltration of the thyroid which progressed from hyperthyroidism to hypothyroidism. NMO diagnosis was established with seropositivity for NMO-IgG and MRI showing longitudinally extensive spinal cord lesions (3 or more spinal segments. In spite of treatment, the response was poor due to lack of early diagnosis and aggressive immunosuppressant therapy.

  2. Theory of the Sagnac's interferometer of low birefringence and twist fiber; Teoria del interferometro de Sagnac de fibra de baja birrefrigencia y torcida

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Estudillo-Ayala, J. M.; Kuzin, E. A.; Ibarra-Escamilla, B. [Instituto Nacional de Astrofisica, Optica y Electronica, Puebla (Mexico); Rojas-Laguna, R. [Universidad de Guanajuato, Guanajuato (Mexico)

    2001-06-01

    The fibre Sagnac interferometer of low birefringence and twist in the lineal region is examined numerically, a method is shown to measure the birefringence in the fibers and rotation of the axes inside of the interferometer fibre loop. [Spanish] El interferometro de Sagnac de fibra de baja birrefrigencia y torcida en la region lineal es numericamente examinado, se muestra un metodo para medir la birrefrigencia en las fibras y rotacion de los ejes dentro de la fibra del lazo del interferometro.

  3. Finding NMO: The Evolving Diagnostic Criteria of Neuromyelitis Optica

    Science.gov (United States)

    Bennett, Jeffrey L.

    2016-01-01

    Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) is an autoimmune demyelinating disorder of the central nervous system (CNS) with predilection for the optic nerves and spinal cord. Since its emergence in the medical literature in the late 1800’s, the diagnostic criteria for NMO has slowly evolved from the simultaneous presentation of neurologic and ophthalmic signs to a relapsing or monophasic CNS disorder defined by clinical, neuroimaging, and laboratory criteria. Due to the identification of a specific autoantibody response against the astrocyte water channel aquaporin-4 (AQP4) in the vast majority of affected individuals, the clinical spectrum of NMO has greatly expanded necessitating the development of new international criteria for the diagnosis of NMO spectrum disorder (NMOSD). The routine application of new diagnostic criteria for NMOSD in clinical practice will be critical for future refinement and correlation with therapeutic outcomes. PMID:27529327

  4. Seronegative neuromyelitis optica presenting with life-threatening respiratory failure.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Nardone, Raffaele; Zuccoli, Giulio; Brigo, Francesco; Trinka, Eugen; Fitzgerald, Ryan T

    2016-11-01

    Dyspnea has rarely been reported as a presenting symptom in patients with neuromyelitis optica (NMO). We report an unusual case of NMO relapse presenting with rapidly progressive respiratory failure and briefly discuss the possible pathophysiological mechanisms of this potential life-threatening complication of NMO. The 58-year-old woman with a history of bilateral optic neuritis presented to the emergency department with rapidly worsening dyspnea. Cervical spine magnetic resonance imaging showed extensive abnormal signal with involvement of the medulla oblongata. Since in our patient chest radiography failed to disclose a diaphragmatic palsy that is commonly observed in patients with phrenic nerve involvement, this acute manifestation of the disease may be attributed to brainstem involvement instead of cervical myelitis. Clinicians should be aware of this atypical presentation of NMO, which needs to be promptly recognized and aggressively treated.

  5. Plasma Exchange in Severe Attacks of Neuromyelitis Optica

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Mickael Bonnan

    2012-01-01

    Full Text Available Background. Neuromyelitis optica (NMO attacks are poorly controlled by steroids and evolve in stepwise neurological impairments. Assuming the strong humoral response underlying NMO attacks, plasma exchange (PLEX is an appropriate technique in severe NMO attacks. Objective. Presenting an up-to-date review of the literature of PLEX in NMO. Methods. We summarize the rationale of PLEX in relation with the physiology of NMO, the main technical aspects, and the available studies. Results. PLEX in severe attacks from myelitis or optic neuritis are associated with a better outcome, depending on PLEX delay (“time is cord and eyes”. NMO-IgG status has no influence. Finally, we build up an original concept linking the inner dynamic of the lesion, the timing of PLEX onset and the expected clinical results. Conclusion. PLEX is a safe and efficient add-on therapy in NMO, in synergy with steroids. Large therapeutic trials are required to definitely assess the procedure and define the time opportunity window.

  6. Age related changes in the elastic fiber system of the interfoveolar ligament Alterações do sistema de fibras elásticas relacionadas ao envelhecimento do ligamento interfoveolar

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Mario Luiz Quintas

    2000-06-01

    Full Text Available In order to evaluate age related changes of the elastic fiber system in the interfoveolar ligament, we studied the deep inguinal ring from 33 male cadavers aged from stillborn to 76 years. Selective and alternated staining methods for elastic fibers were performed to differentiate oxytalan, elaunin, and mature elastic fibers. We confirmed quantitative changes of the elastic fiber system with aging. There was a significant and progressive reduction of the oxytalan fibers (responsible for tissue resistance and a significant increment in the mature elastic and elaunin fibers (responsible for tissue elasticity. Furthermore, there were structural changes in the thickness, shortness and curling of these mature elastic fibers. These changes induced loss of the elastic fiber function and loss of the interfoveolar ligament compliance. These factors predispose individuals to the development of indirect inguinal hernias that frequently emerge in adults and aged individuals, especially above the fifth decade.Com o objetivo de avaliar as alterações do sistema de fibras elásticas relacionadas ao envelhecimento do ligamento interfoveolar estudou-se o anel inguinal profundo em 33 cadáveres do sexo masculino com idade variando de recém-nascido a 76 anos. Métodos de coloração seletiva para as fibras elásticas foram empregados para diferenciar fibras oxitalânicas, fibras elaunínicas e fibras elásticas maduras. Verificaram-se alterações quantitativas significantes no sistema de fibras elásticas do ligamento interfoveolar com o envelhecimento: uma redução progressiva de fibras oxitalânicas, responsáveis pela resistência do tecido conjuntivo, e um aumento de fibras elásticas maduras e elaunínicas, responsáveis pela elasticidade tecidual. Demonstraram-se alterações estruturais, como espessamento, encurtamento e encurvamento das fibras elásticas maduras e elaunínicas. Estas alterações induzem a perda de função das fibras elásticas, o que

  7. Fertilidade de substratos para mudas de mangabeira, contendo fibra de coco e adubados com fósforo

    OpenAIRE

    Dias,Thiago Jardelino; Pereira,Walter Esfrain; Sousa,Geocleber Gomes de

    2007-01-01

    Este experimento foi executado no Centro de Ciências Agrárias da UFPB, Areia, Estado da Paraíba, com objetivo de avaliar a fertilidade de substratos compostos por diferentes concentrações de fibra de coco (0 a 40%), esterco bovino (0 a 25%), terra vegetal (25 a 70%), 15% de areia e adubados com superfosfato triplo (0; 5,5 e 11 g L-1). Houve aumento das características químicas desejáveis do substrato com aumento da concentração de terra vegetal, fibra de coco e dose máxima do superfosfato tri...

  8. Utilização de pós residuais e fibra de sisal em blocos de concreto

    OpenAIRE

    Indara Soto Izquierdo

    2015-01-01

    A pesquisa tem como enfoque fundamental a aplicação de novos materiais alternativos para uma construção sustentável. Pós residuais, provenientes do resíduo orgânico e do setor mineral, e fibras de sisal constituem bons exemplos de materiais não convencionais. Dessa forma, o objetivo principal foi avaliar a incorporação dos pós residuais e da fibra de sisal no concreto para a fabricação de blocos de concreto e elementos de alvenaria. Foram estudados três relações cimento: agregado, de 1:15, 1:...

  9. Resistência à compressão de argamassas em função da adição de fibra de coco

    OpenAIRE

    Silva,Everton J. da; Silva,Paola D. da; Marques,Maria L.; Fornari Junior,Celso C. M.; Garcia,Fermin C.; Luzardo,Francisco H. M.

    2014-01-01

    Neste trabalho se propôs analisar a influência que a variação do comprimento da fibra de coco exerce na resistência à compressão da argamassa, em busca de se determinar, experimentalmente, o comprimento mais próximo ao tamanho crítico. Foram confeccionadas argamassas com adição (0,3% em relação ao volume total da mistura) de 6 comprimentos diferentes de fibras de coco: 12,5; 25,0; 37,5; 50,0; 62,5 e 75,0 mm, além de uma argamassa de referência sem adição de fibra de coco. Para a avaliação do ...

  10. Technological functional properties of soy, oat and wheat fibers and soy products with added fibers and fermented with kefir culturePropriedades funcionais tecnológicas das fibras de soja, aveia e trigo e produtos de soja com adição de fibras e fermentados com cultura de kefir

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Elza Iouko Ida

    2012-02-01

    Full Text Available The objective of this study was to characterize the technological functional properties of soy, oats and wheat fibers and evaluate soy products with added fiber and fermented with kefir. The fibers were characterized with regard to pH, water adsorption capacity, water and oil absorption capacity and swelling volume. Soy products were developed with the addition of 3% soy fiber, oat and wheat and fermented with kefir. The fermented products were characterized for pH, acidity, syneresis, viscosity and firmness, Lactococcus lactis counts and analysis of sanitary conditions. The soy fiber showed a higher content of protein and lipids, pH, water adsorption and adsorption capacity. The wheat fiber showed a higher oil absorption capacity. The addition of soy, oat and wheat fibers influence pH, acidity, syneresis, viscosity and firmness of fermented soy products with kefir. The lowest syneresis and highest viscosity and firmness were obtained with the soy fermented products with soy fiber. The addition of soy fiber stimulated Lactococcus lactis growth. The fermented soy products had enough Lactococcus lactis counts to be considered probiotics. The products presented satisfactory hygienic sanitary conditions.O objetivo deste trabalho foi caracterizar as propriedades funcionais tecnológicas das fibras de soja, aveia e trigo e avaliar os produtos de soja com adição de fibras e fermentados com cultura de kefir. As fibras foram caracterizadas quanto a composição química, pH, capacidade de adsorção e absorção de água, capacidade de absorção de óleo e volume de intumescimento. Foram desenvolvidos produtos de soja com adição de 3% de fibra de soja, aveia e trigo e fermentados com cultura de kefir. Os produtos fermentados foram caracterizados quanto o pH, acidez, sinerese, viscosidade e firmeza, contagem de Lactococcus lactis e análise das condições higiênico-sanitárias. A fibra de soja apresentou maior teor de proteínas e lipídios, p

  11. Interferon Alpha Association with Neuromyelitis Optica

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Nasrin Asgari

    2013-01-01

    Full Text Available Interferon-alpha (IFN-α has immunoregulatory functions in autoimmune inflammatory diseases. The goal of this study was to determine occurrence and clinical consequences of IFN-α in neuromyelitis optica (NMO patients. Thirty-six NMO and 41 multiple sclerosis (MS patients from a population-based retrospective case series were included. Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS score and MRI findings determined disease activity. Linear regression was used to assess the effects of the level of IFN-α on disability (EDSS. IFN-α was determined by sensitive ELISA assays. IFN-α was detectable in sera from 9/36 NMO patients, significantly more often than in the MS group (2/41 (P=0.0197. A higher frequency of IFN-α was observed in NMO patients with acute relapse compared to NMO patients in remission (P<0.001 and compared to the MS patients with relapse (P=0.010. In NMO patients, the levels of IFN-α were significantly associated with EDSS (P=0.0062. It may be concluded that IFN-α was detectable in a subgroup of NMO patients. Association of IFN-α levels with clinical disease activity and severity suggests a role for IFN-α in disease perpetuation and may provide a plausible explanation for a negative effect of IFN-1 treatment in NMO patients.

  12. SÍNTESIS IN SITU DE NANOPARTÍCULAS DE PLATA SOBRE FIBRAS DE FIQUE

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Sergio Ovalle

    2014-07-01

    Full Text Available Se realizó la síntesis de un material nanocompuesto mediante la deposiciónin situ de nanopartículas (NPs de plata sobre fibras de Fique. La influencia de parámetros experimentales, como concentración del precursor, concentración del agente reductor y tiempos de inmersión de las fibras en la solución del precursor y del agente reductor, se evaluó en términos de recubrimiento, tamaño y dispersión del nanomaterial sobre la superficie. Los nanocompositos fueron caracterizados mediante espectroscopia de reflectancia difusa UV-Vis (RD, microscopía electrónica (FESEM y difracción de rayos X (DRX. El control de los parámetros experimentales mencionados permitió obtener un material que exhibe recubrimiento uniforme y completo de NPs sobre la superficie y tamaños promedio de NPs de 40 nm. 

  13. Preparação de fibras de polipropileno modificadas com grupos mercaptan e sua utilização em compósitos com resina epoxídica

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Dutra Rita C. L.

    1999-01-01

    Full Text Available Fibras de polipropileno modificadas com grupos mercaptan foram desenvolvidas através de processo de extrusão/fiação de misturas contendo PP e EVA modificado com grupos mercaptan (EVASH. A superfície destas fibras foi analisada por espectroscopia foto-eletrônica de raios-X (XPS, espectroscopia no infravermelho com transformada de Fourier, utilizando-se a técnica de refletância difusa (DRIFTS, tensão superficial e microscopia eletrônica de varredura. A partir destas técnicas, chegou-se à conclusão que o componente polar (EVASH se situa próximo à superfície da fibra. A utilização destas fibras em compósitos com resina epoxídica resultou em aumento considerável da resistência ao impacto e da temperatura de transição vítrea do material, indicando boa adesão interfacial matriz-fibra. Estas interações foram comprovadas por análise dinâmico-mecânicas.

  14. What do we know about brain contrast enhancement patterns in neuromyelitis optica?☆

    Science.gov (United States)

    Pekcevik, Yeliz; Orman, Gunes; Lee, In Ho; Mealy, Maureen A.; Levy, Michael; Izbudak, Izlem

    2016-01-01

    Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) is an autoimmune disorder of the central nervous system that usually presents with acute myelitis and/or optic neuritis. Recently, some brain magnetic resonance imaging findings have been described in NMO that are important in the differential diagnosis. Pencil-thin, leptomeningeal, and cloud-like enhancement may be specific to NMO. These patterns are usually seen during relapses. Recognizing these lesions and enhancement patterns may expedite the diagnosis and allows early effective treatment. The purpose of this article is to review the latest knowledge and to share our experience with the contrast enhancement patterns of NMO brain lesions. PMID:26615899

  15. Comparison of the efficacy of azathioprine and rituximab in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder

    DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

    Nikoo, Zahra; Badihian, Shervin; Shaygannejad, Vahid

    2017-01-01

    Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) often follows a relapsing course. As disability in NMOSD is attack-related, effective treatments are needed. We aimed to compare the efficacy of azathioprine (AZA) and rituximab (RIT) as maintenance therapy in NMOSD patients. An open, randomized...... = 0–7). Patients were randomized into two groups, which did not differ according to age, gender distribution, and disease duration. In the AZA group, 35 patients [20 aquaporin-4 (AQP4)-IgG positive] were started on 50 mg/day oral AZA and increased to 2–3 mg/kg/day (with oral prednisolone as adjunctive...

  16. EFEITO DE DIFERENTES TEMPOS DE COZIMENTO NOS TEORES DE FIBRAS ALIMENTARES EM FOLHAS DE BRÓCOLIS, COUVE-FLOR E COUVE (BRASSICA OLERACEA L.

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Mônica Alessandra Teixeira dos SANTOS

    2009-07-01

    Full Text Available

    Foram determinados os teores de fibras alimentares (FDA, FDN, lignina e pectinas das folhas de brócolis e couve-flor e comparados aos teores encontrados nas tradicionais folhas de couve. Os materiais estudados foram cultivados no município de Ijaci MG, com o objetivo da utilização integral dessas hortaliças como fonte alternativa de fibras. As folhas foram submetidas a cocção por seis diferentes tempos (0, 2, 4, 6, 8 e 10 minutos. Acompanhando o comportamento das diversas frações da fibra no material úmido e após secagem. Os resultados mostraram que as folhas de couve-flor e brócolis superaram a couve comum, que apresentou teores superiores apenas na fração FDA do material seco. Os resultados revelaram que as folhas das hortaliças analisadas podem ser consideradas como boas fontes de fibras insolúveis, mas não contribuem significativamente com a porção solúvel.

  17. Epidemiological, clinical and immunological aspects of neuromyelitis optica (NMO)

    DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

    Asgari, Nasrin

    2013-01-01

    Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) is an inflammatory demyelinating disease (IDD) of the central nervous system (CNS) and probably the most common non-multiple sclerosis (MS) CNS IDD. Serum immunoglobulin G autoantibodies have been identified in the majority of NMO patients with the water channel aquaporin...... on either the Wingerchuk 2006 criteria or the United States National Multiple Sclerosis Society 2008 criteria could be made purely on clinical grounds in a high proportion (64%) of cases. Heterogeneity of clinical NMO manifestations including optic neuritis, longitudinal extensive transverse myelitis (LETM...... with specific clinical, immunogenetic and experimental perspectives. The yearly incidence rate of NMO in the population was estimated to be 0.4 per 105 person-years (95% CI 0.30-0.54) and the prevalence was 4.4 per 105 (95% CI 3.1-5.7). The results indicated that NMO is more common in a Caucasian population...

  18. Modelos esquemáticos para avaliação da qualidade analítica dos dados nacionais de fibra alimentar

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    CARUSO Lúcia

    1999-01-01

    Full Text Available O controle de qualidade de uma análise laboratorial é essencial para garantir a confiabilidade da informação. Os resultados analíticos serão considerados restritos se não houver um programa definido de controle de qualidade analítico. O presente trabalho propõe modelos esquemáticos para a avaliação da qualidade dos dados nacionais de fibra alimentar. A fibra alimentar foi escolhida, como um modelo, com o propósito de se aplicar os critérios do USDA (U.S. Department of Agriculture empregados na avaliação do selênio, cobre e de carotenóides. Esta escolha foi baseada na escassez de informações desse nutriente e pela importância da fibra alimentar na prevenção de doenças crônico-degenerativas. Para a avaliação da qualidade dos dados foram consideradas cinco categorias: número de amostras, plano de amostragem, tomada de amostra, método analítico e controle de qualidade analítica. Estes modelos foram utilizados na avaliação da qualidade das determinações de fibra alimentar de 180 alimentos. O resultado obtido foi de 29% com código A e B (considerável e razoável confiança e 68% com código C (reduzida confiança. Com a determinação da qualidade dos dados, foi possível estabelecer quais os alimentos que constituem prioridades de análise, que são aqueles nos quais ainda não foi determinada a fração fibra alimentar, e aqueles com código de confiança C.

  19. OPTIC NEURITIS IN NEUROMYELITIS OPTICA

    Science.gov (United States)

    Levin, Marc H.; Bennett, Jeffrey L.; Verkman, A.S.

    2013-01-01

    Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) is an autoimmune demyelinating disease associated with recurrent episodes of optic neuritis and transverse myelitis, often resulting in permanent blindness and/or paralysis. The discovery of autoantibodies (AQP4-IgG) that target aquaporin-4 (AQP4) has accelerated our understanding of the cellular mechanisms driving NMO pathogenesis. AQP4 is a bidirectional water channel expressed on the plasma membranes of astrocytes, retinal Müller cells, skeletal muscle, and some epithelial cells in kidney, lung and the gastrointestinal tract. AQP4 tetramers form regular supramolecular assemblies at the cell plasma membrane called orthogonal arrays of particles. The pathological features of NMO include perivascular deposition of immunoglobulin and activated complement, loss of astrocytic AQP4, inflammatory infiltration with granulocyte and macrophage accumulation, and demyelination with axon loss. Current evidence supports a causative role of AQP4-IgG in NMO, in which binding of AQP4-IgG to AQP4 orthogonal arrays on astrocytes initiates complement-dependent and antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity and inflammation. Immunosuppression and plasma exchange are the mainstays of therapy for NMO optic neuritis. Novel therapeutics targeting specific steps in NMO pathogenesis are entering the development pipeline, including blockers of AQP4-IgG binding to AQP4 and inhibitors of granulocyte function. However, much work remains in understanding the unique susceptibility of the optic nerves in NMO, in developing animal models of NMO optic neuritis, and in improving therapies to preserve vision. PMID:23545439

  20. Aplicações de fibras vegetais na secagem de concretos refratários Use of natural fibers to speed up the drying step of refractory castables

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    C. S. Isaac

    2004-06-01

    Full Text Available A secagem de concretos refratários é uma etapa crítica em seu processamento devido aos riscos de explosão durante a saída de água contida em sua estrutura. Para minimizar esses problemas e aumentar a velocidade de secagem, fibras poliméricas têm sido adicionadas às formulações de concreto. Uma variável importante a ser considerada no desempenho desse aditivo é o tipo de fibra utilizada. Trabalhos do grupo de pesquisa indicaram que fibras vegetais podem apresentar bom desempenho na geração de canais permeáveis. Esse fato, aliado à sua grande disponibilidade e baixo custo, sugere que estas fibras sejam uma alternativa interessante às fibras sintéticas utilizadas atualmente. Neste trabalho, comparou-se o desempenho de fibras vegetais com o do polipropileno utilizados como aditivos de secagem. Foram realizadas medidas de permeabilidade utilizando a Equação de Forchheimer, ensaios de permeametria em alta temperatura e análise termogravimétrica do concreto. As fibras foram caracterizadas por calorimetria exploratória diferencial e termogravimetria.The drying of refractory castables is a critical step during application due to the possibility of spalling. In order to decrease these risks and improve the drying rate, polymeric fibers have been added to the castables' formulation. The type of fiber is an important aspect to be studied. Authors' previous works indicated that vegetable fibers can be good candidates. This fact, associated with its wide availability and low cost, suggests that these fibers can be interesting substitutes to synthetic ones. In this work, vegetable and polypropylene fibers had their performance evaluated as drying agents. The results of permeability measurements and hot air permeametry were related with the thermogravimety of the fiber-containing castables. The fibers were characterized by differential scanning calorimetry and thermogravimetry.

  1. Fibras nervosas retinianas mielinizadas associadas a miopia e ambliopia

    OpenAIRE

    Borges, Bárbara; Cabugueira, Ana; Anjos, Rita; Paixão, Ana; Marques, Margarida; Toscano, Alcina

    2015-01-01

    Introdução: A presença de fibras nervosas mielinizadas na retina está descrita em cerca de 1% da população. Os doentes são habitualmente assintomáticos, embora possam coexistir outras alterações oculares como miopia e ambliopia. Material e Métodos: Descrevem-se 3 casos de crianças com fobras nervosas retinianas mielinizadas unilaterais, associadas a miopia e ambliopia. Resultados: A idade das crianças variou entre 1 e 7 anos. O olho afectado foi o olho direito. A melhor acuidade visual ...

  2. Estado del arte sobre el comportamiento físico-mecánico de la escayola reforzada con fibras de vidrio E

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Comino Almenara, Pablo

    2004-10-01

    Full Text Available This article contains a discussion of the results and conclusions obtained in different studies to determine the physical and mechanical performance of fibre-reinforced plaster/scagliola specimens. The reinforcement used in this case is short filaments of fibreglass-E, the type of fibre most widely used at this time in Spain to reinforce prefabricated plaster/scagliola.En este artículo se presentan los resultados y las conclusiones obtenidas en diferentes estudios, sobre el comportamiento físico y mecánico, realizados en probetas de yeso/escayola reforzadas mediante la incorporación de fibras, y, en concreto, de fibras de vidrio E, en formato de hilos cortados. Este tipo de fibras son las más utilizadas en la actualidad para el refuerzo en prefabricados de yeso/ escayola, en España.

  3. Brain Abnormalities in Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Woojun Kim

    2012-01-01

    Full Text Available Neuromyelitis optica (NMO is an idiopathic inflammatory syndrome of the central nervous system that is characterized by severe attacks of optic neuritis (ON and myelitis. Until recently, NMO was considered a disease without brain involvement. However, since the discovery of NMO-IgG/antiaqaporin-4 antibody, the concept of NMO was broadened to NMO spectrum disorder (NMOSD, and brain lesions are commonly recognized. Furthermore, some patients present with brain symptoms as their first manifestation and develop recurrent brain symptoms without ON or myelitis. Brain lesions with characteristic locations and configurations can be helpful in the diagnosis of NMOSD. Due to the growing recognition of brain abnormalities in NMOSD, these have been included in the NMO and NMOSD diagnostic criteria or guidelines. Recent technical developments such as diffusion tensor imaging, MR spectroscopy, and voxel-based morphometry reveal new findings related to brain abnormalities in NMOSD that were not identified using conventional MRI. This paper focuses on the incidence and characteristics of the brain lesions found in NMOSD and the symptoms that they cause. Recent studies using advanced imaging techniques are also introduced.

  4. Monoclonal antibody therapy for neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder: current and future.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Lin, Jie; Xue, Binbin; Li, Xiang; Xia, Junhui

    2017-08-01

    Monoclonal-antibody has been used for patients with autoimmune disorders for several years, and efficacy and safety were appreciated for these patients. Neuromyelitis optica specturm disorder (NMOSD) has been defined as an autoimmune demyelination disorder of the central nervous system (CNS) with a course of relapse-remission. Treatment of prevention is important for patients with NMOSD because of the increased disability after several attacks. Multiple factors were involved in the pathogenesis of NMOSD. Currently, targeting specific factor was favored in the research into the treatment for NMOSD. Previous studies reported the efficacy and tolerance in NMOSD for drugs such as rituximab, tocilizumab, and eculizumab. The aim of this article is to review the current monoclonal therapies for NMOSD patients, and also future alternative options.

  5. Metodología para el diseño óptimo de dovelas de hormigón reforzado con fibras

    OpenAIRE

    Fuente Antequera, Albert de la; Pujadas Álvarez, Pablo; Blanco Álvarez, Ana; Aguado de Cea, Antonio

    2012-01-01

    En este trabajo se presentan una de las experiencias más relevantes relativas al uso de fibras estructurales como refuerzo del hormigón substitución prácticamente toda la armadura pasiva tradicional en dovelas para anillos de revestimiento en el área metropolitana de Barcelona. Es conocido, que la adición de fibras estructurales mejora, por una parte, la respuesta estructural del elemento durante su construcción, especialmente durante la acción del empuje de los gatos, y, por otra parte, cond...

  6. Avaliação dos modos de falha sob impacto de compósitos de matriz polimérica reforçados por fibras

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Marcelo M. M. Naglis

    1998-03-01

    Full Text Available RESUMO: Neste trabalho é feita uma avaliação dos modos de falha de compósitos de matriz polimérica reforçados por fibras de vidro, carbono ou aramida, submetidos a carregamento dinâmico. Os compósitos unidirecionais analisados foram fabricados por prensagem e cura à vácuo de lâminas de pré-impregnados. A energia total absorvida na fratura mostrou uma correlação inversamente proporcional ao módulo elástico das fibras usadas como reforço. Os compósitos com fibras de carbono falharam de um modo frágil. Para estes compósitos o comportamento ao impacto pode ser modelado usando-se uma análise puramente elástica. Para os compósitos com fibras de vidro a falha foi controlada por um mecanismo misto de cisalhamento ao longo da interface fibra-matriz e tensão normal trativa atuando perpendicularmente às fibras. O modelo elástico empregado para simular o comportamento ao impacto subestima a energia absorvida por estes compósitos, porém, a diferença entre os valores experimentais e os calculados não ultrapassou 20 %. A falha dos compósitos com fibras aramidas foi atribuída, principalmente, ao componente de tensão trativa atuando perpendicularmente às fibras. Nestes compósitos foi observado arrancamento superficial nas fibras aramidas e o comportamento ao impacto não obedece o modelo elástico empregado.ABSTRACT: In this work an evaluation of the fracture mode of fiber reinforced resin matrix composites submitted to three point bending dynamic impact testing was undertaken. The unidirectional glass, carbon and aramid fiber-epoxy matrix composites used were fabricated by vacuum bagging prepreg laminas. The energy absorbed to fracture the composites had an inverse correlation to the fibres' elastic modulus. The carbon fiber composites failed in a brittle mode. The analysis of the fracture surfaces showed that for the glass fiber composites, the failure is controlled by a coupled mechanism of shear along the fiber

  7. Quantitative Susceptibility Mapping Indicates a Disturbed Brain Iron Homeostasis in Neuromyelitis Optica ? A Pilot Study

    OpenAIRE

    Doring, Thomas Martin; Granado, Vanessa; Rueda, Fernanda; Deistung, Andreas; Reichenbach, Juergen R.; Tukamoto, Gustavo; Gasparetto, Emerson Leandro; Schweser, Ferdinand

    2016-01-01

    Dysregulation of brain iron homeostasis is a hallmark of many neurodegenerative diseases and can be associated with oxidative stress. The objective of this study was to investigate brain iron in patients with Neuromyelitis Optica (NMO) using quantitative susceptibility mapping (QSM), a quantitative iron-sensitive MRI technique. 12 clinically confirmed NMO patients (6 female and 6 male; age 35.4y±14.2y) and 12 age- and sex-matched healthy controls (7 female and 5 male; age 33.9±11.3y) underwen...

  8. El Nopal fresco como fuente de fibra y calcio en panqués El Nopal fresco como fuente de fibra y calcio en panqués

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    José Eleazar Barboza- Corona

    2012-02-01

    Full Text Available El objetivo de este trabajo fue utilizar nopal fresco en la formulación de panqués para incrementar su contenido de fibra dietética y calcio. Se desarrollaron cinco formulaciones de panqués utilizando nopal fresco (Opuntia amyclaea Tenore, 4 con sucralosa (una testigo sin nopal y una con azúcar y nopal. Se evaluaron sensorialmente por 60 jueces no entrenados mediante la prueba de preferencia, utilizando una escala hedónica del 1 al 9. Se les determinó el contenido de proteína (Nx6.25, humedad, cenizas, lípidos, hidratos de carbono, fibra dietética total, calcio y fósforo por los métodos de la AOAC, (1990. Los resultados revelaron contenidos de proteínas (Nx6.25 entre 9.54 y 10.08, de humedad entre 35.75 y 40.00, de cenizas, 2.29 g/100 g y 2.44 g/100 g peso húmedo. La evaluación sensorial mostró una buena aceptación, los contenidos de fibra dietética total estuvieron entre 8.27 % y 10.43 % y los de calcio entre 0.27 y 0.375 g/100 g. El valor calórico fue de 216.02 kcal a 225.68 kcal kJ/100 g de panqué, aproximadamente 50 % menos que los que se ofrecen en el mercado. Por su alto contenido de fibra y calcio, ausencia de azúcar y bajo valor calórico estos productos podrían ser una opción saludable para personas diabéticas y obesas.The aim of this work was to utilize fresh cactus as a source of dietary fiber and calciumin pound cake formulations. Five pound cake formulations using fresh cactus (Opuntiaamyclaea Tenore were developed (four with sucralosa, one of them without cactus andone with sugar cane and cactus. Sensory evaluation was performed by 60 untrained judgesand based on a preference assay with a hedonic scale from 1 to 9. Protein (Nx6.25,lipids, ashes, carbohydrates, total dietary fiber, calcium and phosphorus were determinedaccording to the methods of the AOAC, (1990. The results showed protein contentsfrom 9.54 to 10.08, moisture from 35.75 to 40.00, lipids from 2.29 g/100 g y 2.44 g/100g fresh weight. The

  9. Use of Advanced Magnetic Resonance Imaging Techniques in Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder

    DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

    Kremer, S.; Renard, F.; Achard, S.

    2015-01-01

    Brain parenchymal lesions are frequently observed on conventional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans of patients with neuromyelitis optica (NMO) spectrum disorder but the specific morphological and temporal patterns distinguishing them uneqtaivcally from lesions caused by other disorders have...... not been identified. This literature review summarizes the literature on advanced quantitative imaging measures reported for patients with NMO spectrum disorder, including proton MR spectroscopy, diffusion tensor imaging, magnetization transfer imaging, quantitative MR voltametry, and ultrahigh...... diffusion-weighted imaging and brain tissue volumetry indicate greater white matter than gray matter degradation. These findings could be confirmed by ultrahigh-field MRI. The use of nonconventional MR I techniques may further our understanding of the pathogenic processes hi NMO spectrum disorders and may...

  10. Consumo de fibra dietética en lactantes menores de 2 años y estreñimiento funcional

    OpenAIRE

    Velasco Benítez, Carlos Alberto; Giraldo Lora, Sandra Carolina

    2015-01-01

    Antecedentes. La inclusión de la fibra dietética (FD), tiene múltiples beneficios sobre la salud del ser humano; sin embargo, en pediatría, existen grandes brechas concernientes a la relación de fibra y estreñimiento. Objetivo. Describir el hábito intestinal en lactantes . Se tuvo en cuenta la alimentación con leche materna, el tiempo de inicio de alimentación complementaria y el antecedente de madre o cuidador con EF. Los resultados son expresados como promedio ± desviación estándar. El anál...

  11. Seronegative Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum - The challenges on disease definition and pathogenesis

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Douglas Kazutoshi Sato

    2014-06-01

    Full Text Available Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSD are characterized by severe optic neuritis and/or longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis, and some brain lesions are also unique to NMOSD. Serum autoantibodies against aquaporin-4 (AQP4 are detected in most cases of NMOSD. However, some patients with NMOSD remain seronegative despite repetitive testing during attacks with highly sensitive cell-based assays. The differential diagnosis of NMOSD is not restricted to multiple sclerosis and it includes many diseases that can produce longitudinally extensive myelitis and/or optic neuritis. We review the clinical features, imaging, and laboratory findings that can be helpful on the diagnostic work-up, discuss the differences between AQP4 antibody positive and negative patients with NMOSD, including features of NMOSD with antibodies against myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein.

  12. Sintesis in situ de nanopartículas de peróxido de zinc sobre fibras de plátano con potencial en la industria textil

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    María Estefanía Ballesteros García

    2017-09-01

    Full Text Available El presente trabajo de investigación plantea un desarrollo entorno al manejo de residuos en los cultivos de plátano, siendo una idea sostenible con respecto a la extracción y adquisición de fibras con cualidades innovadoras que posean nanopartículas (NPs de ZnO2 como la capacidad antimicrobiana. La finalidad de la investigación fue la de nanoestructurar fibras provenientes de residuos del plátano con NPs de peróxido de zinc como una propuesta sostenible, teniendo en cuenta factores de optimización en procesos para la síntesis de las nanopartículas. Los resultados más relevantes se obtuvieron en la prueba física microscopia electrónica de barrido (SEM, en donde se destaca el tamaño nanométrico de las partículas sintetizadas de 94 nm. Se demostró el factor hidrofóbico de las fibras de plátano por encima de las fibras de algodón.

  13. Teores de fibra e rendimento de grãos em populações de feijão Fiber content and yield grain in common bean populations

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Patrícia Medianeira Grigoletto Londero

    2008-02-01

    Full Text Available O desenvolvimento de cultivares de feijão com alto potencial de produtividade e maior teor de fibra é desejável, por isso objetivou-se neste trabalho investigar a presença de variabilidade genética para o teor de fibra e para o rendimento de grãos em populações segregantes de feijão do grupo preto. Os cruzamentos possíveis entre os genitores CNFP 8100, FT 96-1282, Varre-Sai e BRS Valente foram realizados em casa-de-vegetação. As populações obtidas (F1, F1 recíprocos, F2 e RC e os genitores foram avaliados a campo durante a primavera/verão de 2003/04, em delineamento de blocos ao acaso. Apesar de ter-se utilizado genitores contrastantes para teor de fibra bruta, definidos em experimento prévio, não foram detectadas diferenças significativas para fibra bruta, fibra solúvel, fibra insolúvel, fibra alimentar total e rendimento de grãos. Assim, não foi possível obter populações segregantes com variabilidade genética, a partir dos cruzamentos entre os genitores CNFP 8100, FT 96-1282, BRS Valente e Varre-Sai. As populações obtidas apresentaram altos teores de fibra alimentar solúvel, insolúvel e total.The development of bean cultivars with high grain yield and high dietary fiber content is desirable, thus objective of this study was to evaluate genetic variability for fiber content and grain yield in segregant populations of the black common bean. Crossings were performed inside a greenhouse among the parents CNFP 8100, FT 96-1282, Varre Sai and BRS Valente. The populations obtained (F1, F1 reciprocals, F2 and RC and parents were assessed in the field during spring/summer 2003/04, using a complete randomized blocks experimental design. Significant differences were not obtained for crude fiber, soluble fiber, insoluble fiber, dietary fiber and grain yield, although contrast parents were used. In this go, it was not possible to obtain segregant populations with genetic variability of the crossing among the parents CNFP 8100

  14. La fibra óptica y el fenómeno no lineal mezcla de cuarta onda

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Fabián Gómez López

    2015-12-01

    Full Text Available RESUMEN Para aprovechar de mejor manera el ancho de banda que tiene la fibra óptica, los sistemas de comunicaciones ópticos han tenido que aumentar la potencia de transmisión de las señales para poder transportar a grandes distancias la información. Debido a lo anterior, comienzan a producirse ciertos fenómenos ópticos no lineales como la mezcla de cuarta onda (Four Wave Mixing, FWM, que degradan la señal de información. En este documento se realiza un estado del arte de la fibra óptica y un estudio del fenómeno no lineal FWM, que se genera cuando dos o más señales ópticas se propagan en la fibra, lo cual conlleva a una mezcla de señales que puede generar nuevos componentes de interferencia de la señal óptica transmitida. ABSTRACT To make better use of the bandwidth that has the optical fiber, optical communications systems have had to increase the transmission power of signals to transport information over long distances. Because of this, certain nonlinear optical phenomena such as four wave mixing (Four Wave Mixing, FWM, which degrade the information signal begin to occur. Herein a state of the art of optical fiber and a study of the nonlinear FWM phenomenon, which is generated when two or more optical signals propagating in the fiber takes place, which leads to a mixture of signals that can generate new components interference of the transmitted optical signal.

  15. MRI characteristics of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder

    Science.gov (United States)

    Paul, Friedemann; Lana-Peixoto, Marco A.; Tenembaum, Silvia; Asgari, Nasrin; Palace, Jacqueline; Klawiter, Eric C.; Sato, Douglas K.; de Seze, Jérôme; Wuerfel, Jens; Banwell, Brenda L.; Villoslada, Pablo; Saiz, Albert; Fujihara, Kazuo; Kim, Su-Hyun

    2015-01-01

    Since its initial reports in the 19th century, neuromyelitis optica (NMO) had been thought to involve only the optic nerves and spinal cord. However, the discovery of highly specific anti–aquaporin-4 antibody diagnostic biomarker for NMO enabled recognition of more diverse clinical spectrum of manifestations. Brain MRI abnormalities in patients seropositive for anti–aquaporin-4 antibody are common and some may be relatively unique by virtue of localization and configuration. Some seropositive patients present with brain involvement during their first attack and/or continue to relapse in the same location without optic nerve and spinal cord involvement. Thus, characteristics of brain abnormalities in such patients have become of increased interest. In this regard, MRI has an increasingly important role in the differential diagnosis of NMO and its spectrum disorder (NMOSD), particularly from multiple sclerosis. Differentiating these conditions is of prime importance because early initiation of effective immunosuppressive therapy is the key to preventing attack-related disability in NMOSD, whereas some disease-modifying drugs for multiple sclerosis may exacerbate the disease. Therefore, identifying the MRI features suggestive of NMOSD has diagnostic and prognostic implications. We herein review the brain, optic nerve, and spinal cord MRI findings of NMOSD. PMID:25695963

  16. Immunopathogenesis in Myasthenia Gravis and Neuromyelitis Optica

    Science.gov (United States)

    Wang, Zhen; Yan, Yaping

    2017-01-01

    Myasthenia gravis (MG) and neuromyelitis optica (NMO) are autoimmune channelopathies of the peripheral neuromuscular junction (NMJ) and central nervous system (CNS) that are mainly mediated by humoral immunity against the acetylcholine receptor (AChR) and aquaporin-4 (AQP4), respectively. The diseases share some common features, including genetic predispositions, environmental factors, the breakdown of tolerance, the collaboration of T cells and B cells, imbalances in T helper 1 (Th1)/Th2/Th17/regulatory T cells, aberrant cytokine and antibody secretion, and complement system activation. However, some aspects of the immune mechanisms are unique. Both targets (AChR and AQP4) are expressed in the periphery and CNS, but MG mainly affects the NMJ in the periphery outside of CNS, whereas NMO preferentially involves the CNS. Inflammatory cells, including B cells and macrophages, often infiltrate the thymus but not the target—muscle in MG, whereas the infiltration of inflammatory cells, mainly polymorphonuclear leukocytes and macrophages, in NMO, is always observed in the target organ—the spinal cord. A review of the common and discrepant characteristics of these two autoimmune channelopathies may expand our understanding of the pathogenic mechanism of both disorders and assist in the development of proper treatments in the future. PMID:29312313

  17. Anti-C1q autoantibodies in patients with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Yoshikura, Nobuaki; Kimura, Akio; Hayashi, Yuichi; Inuzuka, Takashi

    2017-09-15

    We examined anti-complement C1q (C1q) autoantibody levels in serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples of patients with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSD). We analyzed the correlations between anti-C1q autoantibody levels and the clinical and other CSF characteristics of NMOSD. Serum and CSF anti-C1q autoantibody levels increased during the acute phase of NMOSD, reverting to the same levels as controls during remission. CSF anti-C1q autoantibody levels during the acute phase correlated with several markers reflecting disease severity, Expanded Disability Status Scale worsening, spinal cord lesion length in cases with myelitis, CSF protein and interleukin-6 levels, and CSF/serum albumin ratios. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  18. Evaluación del comportamiento de vigas en voladizo de concreto reforzado con fibras ante la aplicación de cargas cíclicas

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Daniel Ruiz

    2015-04-01

    Full Text Available El concreto es un material frágil con poca resistencia a la tensión y que no desarrolla grandes deformaciones en el rango inelástico. Para mejorar estas propiedades mecánicas del concreto, en las últimas décadas se han usado adiciones de fibras en aplicaciones estructurales en Colombia, Suramérica. En este documento los autores presentan el comportamiento mecánico de vigas en voladizo hechas con tres diferentes mezclas de concreto: una de concreto normal y dos con dos diferentes porcentajes de adición de fibras de acero (adiciones de fibras metálicas en una proporción de 15 kg/m³ y 30 kg/m³. Todas las vigas fueron ensayadas con desplazamientos cíclicos que fueron aplicados con un actuador dinámico. Todas las vigas fueron ensayadas para evaluar sus ciclos de histéresis y su capacidad de disipación de energía. Con base en los resultados y para el mismo nivel de desplazamiento, las vigas de concreto reforzado adicionado con fibras disiparon 160% más energía que las elaboradas con concreto reforzado normal. Adicionalmente las fibras metálicas disminuyeron la cantidad y la longitud de las grietas y las fisuras para grandes desplazamientos. Estas características pueden ser benéficas para aplicaciones estructurales específicamente para mejorar el desempeño sísmico de estructuras de concreto.

  19. Experimental Neuromyelitis Optica Induces a Type I Interferon Signature in the Spinal Cord

    Science.gov (United States)

    Kaufmann, Nathalie; Zeka, Bleranda; Schanda, Kathrin; Fujihara, Kazuo; Illes, Zsolt; Dahle, Charlotte; Reindl, Markus; Lassmann, Hans; Bradl, Monika

    2016-01-01

    Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) is an acute inflammatory disease of the central nervous system (CNS) which predominantly affects spinal cord and optic nerves. Most patients harbor pathogenic autoantibodies, the so-called NMO-IgGs, which are directed against the water channel aquaporin 4 (AQP4) on astrocytes. When these antibodies gain access to the CNS, they mediate astrocyte destruction by complement-dependent and by antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity. In contrast to multiple sclerosis (MS) patients who benefit from therapies involving type I interferons (I-IFN), NMO patients typically do not profit from such treatments. How is I-IFN involved in NMO pathogenesis? To address this question, we made gene expression profiles of spinal cords from Lewis rat models of experimental neuromyelitis optica (ENMO) and experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). We found an upregulation of I-IFN signature genes in EAE spinal cords, and a further upregulation of these genes in ENMO. To learn whether the local I-IFN signature is harmful or beneficial, we induced ENMO by transfer of CNS antigen-specific T cells and NMO-IgG, and treated the animals with I-IFN at the very onset of clinical symptoms, when the blood-brain barrier was open. With this treatment regimen, we could amplify possible effects of the I-IFN induced genes on the transmigration of infiltrating cells through the blood brain barrier, and on lesion formation and expansion, but could avoid effects of I-IFN on the differentiation of pathogenic T and B cells in the lymph nodes. We observed that I-IFN treated ENMO rats had spinal cord lesions with fewer T cells, macrophages/activated microglia and activated neutrophils, and less astrocyte damage than their vehicle treated counterparts, suggesting beneficial effects of I-IFN. PMID:26990978

  20. Produção de mudas de tomateiro em substratos contendo fibra de coco e pó de rocha

    OpenAIRE

    Sampaio,Regynaldo A; Ramos,Sílvio J; Guilherme,Denílson O; Costa,Cândido A da; Fernandes,Luiz Arnaldo

    2008-01-01

    Com o objetivo de avaliar proporções dos resíduos fibra de coco (FC) e pó de rocha de granito (RG) como substratos na produção de mudas de tomateiro, cultivar Kada Gigante, realizou-se um experimento em casa de vegetação na UFMG-ICA. Foi utilizado o delineamento experimental em blocos ao acaso, com quatro repetições. Os tratamentos foram constituídos por uma testemunha e seis proporções de fibra de coco (FC) e pó de rocha de granito (RG): T1 - Substrato comercial Hortimix®; T2 - 0% FC + 100% ...

  1. Serial quantitative MR assessment of optic neuritis in a case of neuromyelitis optica, using gadolinium-'enhanced' STIR imaging

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Barkhof, F.; Scheltens, P.; Valk, J.; Waalewijn, C.; Uitdehaag, B.M.J.; Polman, C.H.

    1991-01-01

    A patient is presented with neuromyelitis optica. MR imaging, using a short inversion time inversion recovery (STIR) technique, clearly depicted the lesion in the left optic nerve. Subsequent serial STIR imaging, with and without Gadolinium-DTPA, allowed quantitative assessment of changes parallel to improved optic nerve function. STIR imaging is a sensitive technique to demonstrate optic nerve lesions, and enables quantitative assessment to be made of the effect of (steroid) medication. (orig.)

  2. Despliegue red fibra óptica hasta el hogar (FTTH)

    OpenAIRE

    Velasco de Miguel, Javier

    2017-01-01

    En este PFC se pretende dar una visión general de lo que es un despliegue FTTH presentando un caso teórico práctico. Está compuesto en 4 partes. En la primera parte se presenta una explicación de la evolución de las redes fijas de banda ancha llegando al uso actual de la fibra como medio de transmisión. Después, se desarrolla una parte teórica del funcionamiento y elementos presentes en las redes de comunicación ópticas. Explicaremos las partes en las que se divide la red FTTH, y se pre...

  3. Efecto de la incorporación de fibras dietéticas en la calidad de panes para celíacos

    OpenAIRE

    Díaz Malmierca, Álvaro

    2013-01-01

    La investigación en la elaboración de panes sin gluten está muy avanzada, siendo el déficit en micronutrientes de estos productos uno de los problemas sobre el que se está centrando la investigación. Uno de los nutrientes más deficitarios, y que más problemas causa sobre la salud de los pacientes celíacos es la fibra dietética. En este estudio se ha investigado el efecto que produce la adición de un 10% de diferentes fibras sobre las características de los panes, la influencia ...

  4. Contribución al desarrollo de sensores de temperatura y redes de sensores en tecnología de fibra óptica

    OpenAIRE

    Madruga Saavedra, Francisco Javier

    2006-01-01

    Este trabajo de tesis recoge las contribuciones aportadas en el campo de los sensores de fibra óptica en tres ámbitos de trabajo. Un sistema sensor de alta temperatura sin contacto con transductores de fibras ópticas de sílice se ha presentado. Dos topologías de "ojo abierto" y "ojo cerrado" y un algoritmo de decodificación "pirometría de banda dual" propuesto en este trabajo son las novedosas aportaciones presentadas. El sistema ha sido validado en laboratorio y en pruebas de campo de forma ...

  5. Contribución al desarrollo de sensores de temperatura y redes de sensores en tecnología de fibra óptica

    OpenAIRE

    Madruga Saavedra, Francisco Javier

    2008-01-01

    RESUMEN: Este trabajo de tesis recoge las contribuciones aportadas en el campo de los sensores de fibra óptica en tres ámbitos de trabajo. Un sistema sensor de alta temperatura sin contacto con transductores de fibras ópticas de sílice se ha presentado. Dos topologías de "ojo abierto" y "ojo cerrado" y un algoritmo de decodificación "pirometría de banda dual" propuesto en este trabajo son las novedosas aportaciones presentadas. El sistema ha sido validado en laboratorio y en pruebas de campo ...

  6. Treatment of neuromyelitis optica: an evidence based review

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Douglas Sato

    2012-01-01

    Full Text Available Neuromyelitis optica (NMO is an inflammatory disease of the central nervous system characterized by severe optic neuritis and transverse myelitis, usually with a relapsing course. Aquaporin-4 antibody is positive in a high percentage of NMO patients and it is directed against this water channel richly expressed on foot processes of astrocytes. Due to the severity of NMO attacks and the high risk for disability, treatment should be instituted as soon as the diagnosis is confirmed. There is increasing evidence that NMO patients respond differently from patients with multiple sclerosis (MS, and, therefore, treatments for MS may not be suitable for NMO. Acute NMO attacks usually are treated with high dose intravenous corticosteroid pulse and plasmapheresis. Maintenance therapy is also required to avoid further attacks and it is based on low-dose oral corticosteroids and non-specific immunosuppressant drugs, like azathioprine and mycophenolate mofetil. New therapy strategies using monoclonal antibodies like rituximab have been tested in NMO, with positive results in open label studies. However, there is no controlled randomized trial to confirm the safety and efficacy for the drugs currently used in NMO.

  7. EFECTO DE LA TEMPERATURA SOBRE LA RESISTENCIA A LA TRACCIÓN DE ALGUNOS REFUERZOS DE FIBRAS PARA MATRICES CERÁMICAS O POLIMÉRICAS EFEITO DA TEMPERATURA SOBRE A RESISTÊNCIA À TRAÇÃO DE ALGUNS REFORZOS DE FIBRAS PARA MATRIZES CERÁMICAS OU POLIMÉRICAS EFFECT OF TEMPERATURE ON TH E TENSILE STRENGTH OF SOME FIBER REINFORCEMENTS FOR CERAMIC OR POLYMER MATRICES

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    MARYORY ASTRID GÓMEZ

    2009-07-01

    Full Text Available Este artículo presenta un estudio de las propiedades termomecánicas de fibras de acero de bajo carbono, de acero inoxidable ASI-SAE 304, de aramida y de carbono. Además, se analizó el aspecto superficial de refuerzos de lana mineral de roca y lana de aluminosilicatos antes y después de someterlos a tratamientos térmicos a 1000 ºC. La resistencia a la tracción de las fibras se evaluó antes y después de someterlas a tratamientos térmicos a temperaturas de 400, 600, 800 y 1000 ºC dependiendo de la degradación que mostraran. Además, se efectuó un análisis termogravimétrico a cada tipo de fibra para determinar los cambios de peso a diferentes temperaturas. Las fibras de acero inoxidable mostraron la mayor estabilidad termomecánica, mientras que las fibras de aramida con tratamientos a 400 ºC mostraron propiedades mecánicas prácticamente nulas.Este artigo apresenta um estudo das propriedades termomecánicas de fibras de aço baixo carbono, de aço inoxidável ASI-SAE 304, de aramida e de carbono. Além disso, se analisou o aspecto superficial de reforços de lã mineral de rocha e lã de aluminosilicatos antes e depois que submetê-las a tratamentos térmicos a 1000 ºC. A resistência à tração das fibras se avaliou antes e depois de submetê-las a tratamentos térmicos a temperaturas de 400, 600, 800 e 1000 ºC dependendo da degradação que mostraram. Além disso, se efetuou uma análise termogravim étrica a cada tipo de fibra para determinar as mudanças de peso a diferentes temperaturas. As fibras de aço inoxidável mostraram a maior estabilidade termomecânica, enquanto as fibras de aramida com tratamentos a 400 ºC mostraram propriedades mecânicas praticamente nulas.This paper presents a study of the thermomechanical properties of low carbon steel, AISI-SAE 304 stainless steel, aramid and carbon fibers. Moreover, surface aspect of mineral rock wool of and aluminosilicate wool reinforcements was analyzed prior and after

  8. Mapa de preferência de sorvetes ricos em fibras Preference map of high-fiber ice cream

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Regiane Lopes de Sales

    2008-12-01

    Full Text Available Quatro amostras de sorvete foram preparadas adicionando-se diferentes concentrações de granola e Frutooligossacarídeo (FOS. Foi avaliado o teor de fibras segundo método AOAC. A avaliação da aceitabilidade sensorial foi realizada por 78 consumidores, com idade entre 15 e 25 anos. Estes avaliaram a aceitação global das formulações, utilizando a escala hedônica de nove pontos, em uma única seção, de forma monádica. O experimento foi estruturado segundo delineamento em blocos inteiramente casualizados. Os resultados foram submetidos à análise de variância, ao teste de médias de Tuckey e à metodologia do Mapa de Preferência interno para análise dos componentes principais. As amostras controle e as adicionadas de FOS tiveram melhor aceitação. A amostra contendo somente FOS foi a que mais se aproximou do produto tradicional, não diferindo significativamente quanto à aceitação global. A granola distinguiu-se estatisticamente do produto tradicional. O teor de fibras analisado foi superior ao fornecido pelo fabricante da granola. As concentrações de fibras nos sorvetes variaram de 0,9 a 5,45 g.100 g-1 de sorvete, com a maior concentração de fibras provenientes do FOS. Esse resultado permite concluir que o FOS é um ingrediente promissor no desenvolvimento de produtos ricos em fibras.Four samples of ice cream were prepared with four different concentrations of granola and fructooligosaccharide (FOS. The concentration of fiber was evaluated using the AOAC method. The acceptance evaluation was conducted by 78 consumers between 15 and 25 years of age. The consumers evaluated the global acceptance of the formulations through the structured 9-point hedonic scale, in a single section, in a monadic form. The experiment was structured by a Randomized Complete Block Design. The results were submitted to the analysis of variance, Tukey test, and to the preference mapping technique for principal component analysis. The control samples

  9. Fibras reforçadas por resina (FRC em Ortodontia. Versatilidade clínica: parte 2 Fiber reinforced composite (FRC in Orthodontic. Clinical versatility: part II

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Daniel Ianni Filho

    2005-06-01

    Full Text Available As fibras de vidro e de polietileno podem ser utilizadas na prática ortodôntica em diversas situações clínicas, nos casos com ou sem extrações dentárias. Este artigo tem como objetivo mostrar algumas das aplicações clínicas nas quais as fibras contribuíram de forma significativa para a realização dos tratamentos ortodônticos, simplificando-os e aumentando a eficiência clínica. As fibras foram utilizadas principalmente em segmentos de ancoragem e na substituição da banda pela colagem da associação fibra/tubo nos molares.Glass and polyethylene fibers can be used in orthodontic practice on several clinical(s situations, in cases with or without teeth extraction. The objective of this article is to show some of the clinical applications in which the fibers contributed in a positive way to improve the performance of orthodontic treatments, simplifying and raiseing the clinical efficiency. These fibers were mainly used on anchorage segments, and as a substitute for the band by bonding the fiber/tube association in molars.

  10. International consensus diagnostic criteria for neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders

    Science.gov (United States)

    Banwell, Brenda; Bennett, Jeffrey L.; Cabre, Philippe; Carroll, William; Chitnis, Tanuja; de Seze, Jérôme; Fujihara, Kazuo; Greenberg, Benjamin; Jacob, Anu; Jarius, Sven; Lana-Peixoto, Marco; Levy, Michael; Simon, Jack H.; Tenembaum, Silvia; Traboulsee, Anthony L.; Waters, Patrick; Wellik, Kay E.

    2015-01-01

    Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) is an inflammatory CNS syndrome distinct from multiple sclerosis (MS) that is associated with serum aquaporin-4 immunoglobulin G antibodies (AQP4-IgG). Prior NMO diagnostic criteria required optic nerve and spinal cord involvement but more restricted or more extensive CNS involvement may occur. The International Panel for NMO Diagnosis (IPND) was convened to develop revised diagnostic criteria using systematic literature reviews and electronic surveys to facilitate consensus. The new nomenclature defines the unifying term NMO spectrum disorders (NMOSD), which is stratified further by serologic testing (NMOSD with or without AQP4-IgG). The core clinical characteristics required for patients with NMOSD with AQP4-IgG include clinical syndromes or MRI findings related to optic nerve, spinal cord, area postrema, other brainstem, diencephalic, or cerebral presentations. More stringent clinical criteria, with additional neuroimaging findings, are required for diagnosis of NMOSD without AQP4-IgG or when serologic testing is unavailable. The IPND also proposed validation strategies and achieved consensus on pediatric NMOSD diagnosis and the concepts of monophasic NMOSD and opticospinal MS. PMID:26092914

  11. Influência das fibras de aço e das adições minerais na fissuração de tirantes de concreto armado

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    L. A. Oliveira Júnior

    Full Text Available Neste trabalho é investigada a influência das fibras de aço e das adições minerais (sílica ativa e cinza volante na fissuração de tirantes de concreto armado. Fibras de aço com gancho nas extremidades e relação de aspecto igual a 65 foram usadas nas frações volumétricas de 0,75%, 1,00% e 1,50%. Dezesseis tirantes de 800 mm de comprimento e seção transversal quadrada de 150 mm de lado reforçados com uma barra de aço CA-50 de 20 mm de diâmetro foram submetidos à tração axial para determinação das aberturas das fissuras. Os resultados mostraram que as fibras reduziram a abertura média de fissuras em até 75% e que as adições minerais melhoraram o comportamento do concreto na fissuração. As aberturas de fissuras foram comparadas aos valores sugeridos pelas recomendações das normas brasileira, americana e européia, que se mostraram inadequadas para estimar a abertura de fissuras em concretos reforçados com fibras.

  12. El Nopal fresco como fuente de fibra y calcio en panqués El Nopal fresco como fuente de fibra y calcio en panqués

    OpenAIRE

    José Eleazar Barboza- Corona; Victor Manuel Da Mota; Ernesto Camarena-Aguilar; Guadalupe Alanís- Guzmán; Rosa Inés Pineda Torres; Mayela Bautista-Justo

    2012-01-01

    El objetivo de este trabajo fue utilizar nopal fresco en la formulación de panqués para incrementar su contenido de fibra dietética y calcio. Se desarrollaron cinco formulaciones de panqués utilizando nopal fresco (Opuntia amyclaea Tenore), 4 con sucralosa (una testigo sin nopal) y una con azúcar y nopal. Se evaluaron sensorialmente por 60 jueces no entrenados mediante la prueba de preferencia, utilizando una escala hedónica del 1 al 9. Se les determinó el contenido de proteína (Nx6.25), hume...

  13. DETERMINACIÓN DE LA FRACCIÓN INDIGERIBLE Y FIBRA DIETETICA EN FRUTAS Y VERDURAS DE MAYOR CONSUMO EN MÉXICO

    OpenAIRE

    Trujillo Hernández, César Arnulfo

    2015-01-01

    La fibra dietética (FD) ha sido reconocida como una fracción indigerible de los alimentos, con repercusiones benéficas a la salud de quien la consume. En las últimas décadas ha cobrado gran interés entre el sector de la industria de alimentos, tanto como en el científico y de salud. Sin embargo, los métodos usados para cuantificarla no reflejan lo que ocurre en el sistema digestivo. Por lo tanto, el concepto de fibra dietética como los métodos de análisis ha venido en constante evolución. Una...

  14. EVALUACIÓN QUIMICA DE LA FIBRA EN SEMILLA, PULPA Y CÁSCARA DE TRES VARIEDADES DE AGUACATE

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    ADELA MARÍA CEBALLOS P

    Full Text Available El sector agropecuario colombiano requiere integrarse al sector agroindustrial para aumentarle valor a sus productos y residuos. Utilizar residuos agrícolas y agroindustriales como materias primas para obtener metabolitos secundarios es tema de interés en investigación y busca dar respuestas al uso de esos residuos, mediante desarrollo de tecnologías aplicables al entorno colombiano. Se valoraron cáscara, semilla y pulpa de aguacate variedades Booth8, Trinidad y Papelillo en estados de madurez fisiológica (MF y consumo (MC. Se hizo caracterización bromatológica, contenido de fibra como carbohidratos solubles (CHOS, lignina LG, celulosa y hemicelulosa (CEL y HEMICEL y fibra bruta (FB según (Tappi Methods 1993, 1998, AOAC, 2001. Los resultados fueron analizados mediante ANOVA (P < 0,05 utilizando SAS V9.1. Los CHOS en los dos estados de madurez y para las tres variedades variaron entre 12-38% cáscara, 20-35% pulpa y 17-35% semilla; CEL y HEMICEL 8-50% cáscara, 7-26% pulpa, 1-5% semilla, los cuales pueden ser útiles como complementos de procesos biotecnológicos. La pulpa de las tres variedades tiene alto valor nutricional por sus contenidos de proteína, fibra y minerales. La composición de la cáscara y semilla podrían ser importantes para suplementos de dieta animal o como recuperador de suelos para la producción agrícola

  15. Construção e caracterização de um amplificador em fibra para pulsos ultracurtos em ʎ = 1.5 um

    OpenAIRE

    ARIAS, Luis Alfredo Giraldo

    2014-01-01

    Lasers de pulsos ultracurtos baseados em fibras ópticas como meio de ganho constituem fortes candidatos para substituir lasers de estado sólido mais tradicionais, tais como o laser de Ti:safira. Uma das razões é o custo direto e outra é a possibilidade de compactação de sistemas que ocupam muito espaço e consomem quantidades significativas de energia. Um dos problemas de lasers baseados em fibras ópticas é que a potência óptica média disponível é relativamente baixa, da ordem d...

  16. Importância da fibra na nutrição de coelhos Importance of fibre in rabbit nutrition

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Alexandra del Pilar Naranjo Herrera

    2001-06-01

    Full Text Available Os coelhos, por serem herbívoros não ruminantes, podem ser alimentados com considerável quantidade de alimentos fibrosos. No entanto, não apresentam eficiência tão grande para utilizar essa fibra sendo, nesse aspecto, inferior aos ruminantes e, inclusive, aos suínos. Por outro lado, a fibra, apesar de seu escasso valor nutritivo, apresenta valor lastre, sendo importante, pois, na regulação do trânsito da digesta e na prevenção de distúrbios digestivos. Assim, o objetivo deste artigo é revisar alguns aspectos da composição química da fibra e de sua digestão pelos coelhos, bem como a sua relação com outros nutrientes da dieta, como proteína e energia.Rabbits are monogastric herbivorous that intake quantity significative of fibrous feed. However they not show efficiency to degrate this fibre, being less capacity, in this aspect, that ruminants and inclusively, of the swine. For other hand, the fibre have ballast value, being important in the transit digestive regulation and prevention of digestive disturb. Thus, the objetive of this paper is to review some aspects of chemistry composition of fibre and it's digestion for rabbits and it's relation with other components of diet like protein and energy.

  17. Differential diagnosis of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders

    Science.gov (United States)

    Kim, Sung-Min; Kim, Seong-Joon; Lee, Haeng Jin; Kuroda, Hiroshi; Palace, Jacqueline; Fujihara, Kazuo

    2017-01-01

    Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) is an inflammatory disorder of the central nervous system (CNS) mostly manifesting as optic neuritis and/or myelitis, which are frequently recurrent/bilateral or longitudinally extensive, respectively. As the autoantibody to aquaporin-4 (AQP4-Ab) can mediate the pathogenesis of NMOSD, testing for the AQP4-Ab in serum of patients can play a crucial role in diagnosing NMOSD. Nevertheless, the differential diagnosis of NMOSD in clinical practice is often challenging despite the phenotypical and serological characteristics of the disease because: (1) diverse diseases with autoimmune, vascular, infectious, or neoplastic etiologies can mimic these phenotypes of NMOSD; (2) patients with NMOSD may only have limited clinical manifestations, especially in their early disease stages; (3) test results for AQP4-Ab can be affected by several factors such as assay methods, serologic status, disease stages, or types of treatment; (4) some patients with NMOSD do not have AQP4-Ab; and (5) test results for the AQP4-Ab may not be readily available for the acute management of patients. Despite some similarity in their phenotypes, these NMOSD and NMOSD-mimics are distinct from each other in their pathogenesis, prognosis, and most importantly treatment. Understanding the detailed clinical, serological, radiological, and prognostic differences of these diseases will improve the proper management as well as diagnosis of patients. PMID:28670343

  18. Magnetic Resonance Imaging Features of Neuromyelitis Optica

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    You, Sun Kyung; Song, Chang June; Park, Woon Ju; Lee, In Ho; Son, Eun Hee [Chungnam National University College of Medicine, Chungnam National University Hospital, Daejeon (Korea, Republic of)

    2013-03-15

    To report the magnetic resonance (MR) imaging features of the spinal cord and brain in patients of neuromyelitis optica (NMO). Between January 2001 and March 2010, the MR images (spinal cord, brain, and orbit) and the clinical and serologic findings of 11 NMO patients were retrospectively reviewed. The contrast-enhancement of the spinal cord was performed (20/23). The presence and pattern of the contrast-enhancement in the spinal cord were classified into 5 types. Acute myelitis was monophasic in 8 patients (8/11, 72.7%); and optic neuritis preceded acute myelitis in most patients. Longitudinally extensive cord lesion (average, 7.3 vertebral segments) was involved. The most common type was the diffuse and subtle enhancement of the spinal cord with a multifocal nodular, linear or segmental intense enhancement (45%). Most of the brain lesions (5/11, 10 lesions) were located in the brain stem, thalamus and callososeptal interphase. Anti-Ro autoantibody was positive in 2 patients, and they showed a high relapse rate of acute myelitis. Anti-NMO IgG was positive in 4 patients (4/7, 66.7%). The imaging findings of acute myelitis in NMO may helpful in making an early diagnosis of NMO which can result in a severe damage to the spinal cord, and to make a differential diagnosis of multiple sclerosis and inflammatory diseases of the spinal cord such as toxocariasis.

  19. Magnetic Resonance Imaging Features of Neuromyelitis Optica

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    You, Sun Kyung; Song, Chang June; Park, Woon Ju; Lee, In Ho; Son, Eun Hee

    2013-01-01

    To report the magnetic resonance (MR) imaging features of the spinal cord and brain in patients of neuromyelitis optica (NMO). Between January 2001 and March 2010, the MR images (spinal cord, brain, and orbit) and the clinical and serologic findings of 11 NMO patients were retrospectively reviewed. The contrast-enhancement of the spinal cord was performed (20/23). The presence and pattern of the contrast-enhancement in the spinal cord were classified into 5 types. Acute myelitis was monophasic in 8 patients (8/11, 72.7%); and optic neuritis preceded acute myelitis in most patients. Longitudinally extensive cord lesion (average, 7.3 vertebral segments) was involved. The most common type was the diffuse and subtle enhancement of the spinal cord with a multifocal nodular, linear or segmental intense enhancement (45%). Most of the brain lesions (5/11, 10 lesions) were located in the brain stem, thalamus and callososeptal interphase. Anti-Ro autoantibody was positive in 2 patients, and they showed a high relapse rate of acute myelitis. Anti-NMO IgG was positive in 4 patients (4/7, 66.7%). The imaging findings of acute myelitis in NMO may helpful in making an early diagnosis of NMO which can result in a severe damage to the spinal cord, and to make a differential diagnosis of multiple sclerosis and inflammatory diseases of the spinal cord such as toxocariasis.

  20. Caracterización del inicio y crecimiento de grietas de interfaz entre fibra y matriz bajo cargas transversales biaxiales usando el modelo de interfaz elástica lineal-frágil

    OpenAIRE

    Távara Mendoza, Luis Arístides; Mantic, Vladislav; Graciani Díaz, Enrique; Blázquez Gámez, Antonio; París Carballo, Federico

    2011-01-01

    En el presente trabajo se estudia el inicio y crecimiento de una grieta de interfaz entre fibra y matriz bajo cargas transversales biaxiales de tracción - tracción y tracción - compresión. Se considera un problema simplificado en relación a una lámina unidireccional real, con una fibra inmersa en una matriz cuyas dimensiones externas son mucho más grandes que el radio de la fibra. El objetivo es predecir por un lado las cargas de fallo (cargas criticas) que originan el despegue en ...

  1. Análise quantitativa da camada de fibras nervosas da retina de cães normais e glaucomatosos através da polarimetria a laser

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Ana Lucia Braga Martins

    2003-01-01

    Full Text Available As lesões glaucomatosas são progressivas e irreversíveis. Estudos sobre o aparecimento e comportamento desta enfermidade vêm sendo discutidos na oftalmologia em geral. O diagnóstico precoce é de extrema importância para o tratamento e estabilização da mesma. A análise da espessura da camada de fibras nervosas retinianas ''in vivo'' foi proposta na oftalmologia humana, para estabelecer as alterações produzidas pelo glaucoma, e tem demonstrado que tais alterações podem ser detectadas até seis anos antes de alterações de campo visual e aumento de pressão intraocular. Entretanto, na Medicina Veterinária, estes dados carecem de estudo e discussão. Neste experimento foram utilizados dois grupos de cães, com olhos normais e olhos glaucomatosos, que foram submetidos à análise das fibras nervosas retinianas através do Analisador de Fibras Nervosas GDx. Os resultados estatísticos demonstraram que a camada de fibras nervosas dos olhos dos cães glaucomatosos estava mais delgada (p < 0,05 quando comparados aos olhos de cães normais, confirmando a perda de axônios das células ganglionares em olhos de cães com glaucoma.

  2. Desarrollo de un material compuesto de fibras de henequén utilizando una matriz termofija//Development of Composite with Henequen´s fibres and termofix matrix

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Angel‐A. Rodríguez‐Soto

    2014-08-01

    Full Text Available En este trabajo fue obtenida la influencia de la proporción másica de las fibras de henequén como refuerzo sobre las propiedades mecánicas de resistencia a la tracción y al impacto de un material compuesto de matriz polimérica termoestable. Fueron encontradas muy semejantes, física y químicamente las fibras de dos regiones. Se analizaron las probetas mediante interferometría digitalpara detectar la presencia de defectos y se observaron las zonas de ruptura mediante microscopía electrónica de barrido. Fue determinado que el aumento de la inclusión de las fibras como refuerzoen el material aumenta las propiedades estudiadas llegando a su máximo en un 20 % de relación másica fibra-matriz. Se observó un aumento máximo del 53 % en la resistencia a la tracción y un aumento máximo del 88 % en el impacto respecto a la matriz pura.Palabras claves: PRF: plásticos reforzados con fibras, fibras naturales, interferometría digital.______________________________________________________________________________AbstractIn this work was obtained the influence of the mass ratio of the henequen’s fibers as reinforcing over the mechanical properties in traction an impact resistance of the composite with polymeric thermosetting matrix. Was found very similar physics and chemically, fibers from two regions of the country. Was analyzed the samples using digital interferometry searching for defects and was observed the region of rupture using electronic microscopy of sweeping. Was determined that theincrease of the inclusion of the fiber as reinforcement in this material cause the increase of the study properties, raising a maximum over the 20 % of the mass ratio in the relation fiber-matrix. Was observed an increasing over the 53 % in the resistance to traction and over 88 % in the impact resistance compare to the matrix alone.Key words: FRP: fiber reinforced plastics,natural fibers, digital interferometry.

  3. Proceso artesanal de extracción, manejo y secado de las fibras naturales de banano (Musa paradisiaca en la Parroquia El Retiro de la Provincia de El Oro

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Linda Maldonado

    2016-06-01

    Full Text Available Ecuador es considerado un país bananero. En muchas de sus provincias existen grandes plantaciones de banano y que se aprovecha solo el fruto. Se desechan su pseudotallo y otras partes, que pocas veces se emplean como abono. El objetivo del  proyecto es darle un valor agregado a este  residuo, aprovechando toda la fibra natural que posee para utilizarla en la obtención de panelería y enchapes del tipo Fibra de densidad media, conocidos por su sigla en inglés MDF. El presente artículo tiene como propósito dar a conocer el proceso de extracción de las fibras de una forma absolutamente artesanal que se inicia a partir de la selección y corte del pseudotallo, su  desvainado y la separación  de cada uno de los tipos de fibras. Estas se clasifican en suaves, duras  y la denominada  malla. Una vez obtenidas las fibras, se procede a secarlas, se observan detenidamente y se tiene en cuenta las horas de exposición al sol, y las que permanecen a la sombra, prestando  especial atención  al color que adquieren  de acuerdo con la radiación solar, y el tiempo de cortado el pseudotallo. Se consideró aplicarle color a la fibra y se tiñó mediante un proceso de cocción, durante el cual se le agrega  tinte  vegetal  de color turquesa. Posteriormente concluimos que  para el objeto de nuestro estudio  no es necesario  que tengan colores  artificiales,  pero sí sería ideal, aumentar  la intensidad de su color natural después del secado, eso realzaría la textura de los paneles y enchapes que se desean obtener.

  4. Neuromyelitis optica immunoglobulin G in Chinese patients detected by immunofluorescence assay on a monkey brain substrate.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Long, Youming; Hu, Xueqiang; Peng, Fuhua; Lu, Zhengqi; Wang, Yuge; Yang, Yu; Qiu, Wei

    2012-01-01

    Serum neuromyelitis optica immunoglobulin G (NMO-IgG) is used as a biomarker to differentiate between neuromyelitis optica (NMO) and multiple sclerosis (MS). However, the original assay is expensive and complex and shows low sensitivity. Here, we investigated the potential of NMO-IgG detection using an indirect immunofluorescence (IIF) assay on monkey brains. NMO-IgG seroprevalence was determined in 168 samples by an IIF assay on a monkey brain substrate. The data were compared with those from a standard mouse brain IIF assay using McNemar and kappa tests. Thirty-one of 50 (62%) NMO patients, 7 of 18 (38.9%) longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis patients, 6 of 57 (10.5%) MS patients, and 5 of 10 (50%) optic neuritis patients were seropositive for NMO-IgG. None of the acute partial transverse myelitis patients (n = 3) or healthy controls (n = 20) was positive. Thus, the sensitivity of the test was 62% for the patients with clinically definite NMO. The specificity was 89.5%, considering the 57 MS patients as the control group. The modified IIF assay on monkey brains and the standard IIF assay based on mouse brains were not significantly different (McNemar test; p = 1.000). The two assays were concordant in 39 seropositive samples and 100 seronegative samples (kappa test; kappa = 0.592, p monkey brain assay was no better than the standard mouse brain IIF assay, we affirmed that NMO-IgG is a sensitive and specific biomarker to differentiate between NMO and MS. Copyright © 2011 S. Karger AG, Basel.

  5. Efeito do tratamento das fibras nas propriedades do biocompósito de amido termoplástico/policaprolactona/sisal Effect of fiber treatments on properties of thermoplastic starch/polycaprolactone/sisal biocomposites

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Adriana de Campos

    2011-01-01

    Full Text Available Fibras de sisal com quatro tratamentos, a saber: fibra lavada com água, lavada com cicloexano/etanol, tratamento alcalino (NaOH e tratamento com peróxido alcalino (branqueamento, foram incorporadas na blenda amido termoplástico/policaprolactona 80/20 (TPS/PCL. As propriedades morfológicas, mecânicas e térmicas dos biocompósitos TPS/PCL/Sisal foram analisadas. Os compósitos com a fibra branqueada apresentaram os melhores resultados de resistência à tração e estabilidade térmica. Verificou-se também melhora da adesão fibra-matriz no compósito com a fibra branqueada, com aumento de 145% na resistência à tração.Sisal fibers treated with four methods, namely washing with water, washing with cyclohexane/ethanol, alkali treatment (NaOH and bleaching (alkaline peroxide treatment, were incorporated in thermoplastic starch/polycaprolactone 80/20 (TPS/PCL samples. Morphological, mechanical and thermal properties of TPS/PCL/Sisal biocomposites were analysed. The best results were obtained with the composite using the bleached fiber, which had improved tensile strength and thermal stability. An increased adhesion between the fiber and matrix was also observed with the bleached fiber, with 145% increase in the tensile strength

  6. Quantitative MRI analysis of the brain after twenty-two years of neuromyelitis optica indicates focal tissue damage

    DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

    Aradi, Mihaly; Koszegi, Edit; Orsi, Gergely

    2013-01-01

    ). In such abnormal NAWM regions, biexponential diffusion analysis and quantitative spectroscopy indicated extracellular edema and axonal loss, respectively. Repeated analysis 6 months later identified the same alterations. Such patchy alterations were not detectable in the NAWM of the 3 cases with short-term NMO......BACKGROUND: The long-term effect of neuromyelitis optica (NMO) on the brain is not well established. METHODS: After 22 years of NMO, a patient's brain was examined by quantitative T1- and T2-weighted mono- and biexponential diffusion and proton spectroscopy. It was compared to 3 cases with short...

  7. Clinical analysis of neuromyelitis optica presenting as intractable nausea, vomiting and hiccups.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Jin, Xuehong; Pei, Shaofang; Liu, Yi; Li, Xia

    2017-10-01

    Vomiting and hiccups can be the manifestations of numerous systemic and neurological illnesses. Intractable nausea, vomiting and hiccups (INH) are reported as possible initial manifestations of neuromyelitis optica (NMO), but not correctly identified. Awareness of these atypical presentations is conducive to NMO early diagnosis and proper treatment to prevent further disability. In this paper, 12 NMO were reported, whose intractable vomiting and hiccups were the sole manifestations of the first attack and other attacks involving spinal cord and optic nerves developed later. All the patients were women and serum aquaporin 4 antibody (AQP4-Ab) of 83% patients was positive. MRI of 50% patients showed T2-weighted imaging/fluid attenuated inversion recovery hyperintensity which were longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis or linear signal changes. Sixty-seven percent of patients had medulla lesions, in which dorsomedial and area postrema were involved.

  8. Caracterização química e estrutural de fibra de sisal da variedade Agave sisalana Chemical and structural characterization of sisal fibers from Agave sisalana variety

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Adriana R. Martin

    2009-01-01

    Full Text Available Nos últimos anos, o interesse pelo uso de fibras naturais em materiais compósitos poliméricos tem aumentado significativamente. Neste trabalho foram investigadas as propriedades, químicas, físicas, térmicas e estruturais da fibra de sisal brasileira da variedade Agave sisalana. Nosso objetivo foi avaliar a qualidade e o desempenho desta fibra para aplicações industriais. Foram realizados ensaios de resistência à tração, análise da composição química, difração de raios X, e estudos por microscopia eletrônica de varredura (MEV ao longo do comprimento da fibra. A fibra de sisal brasileira apresentou propriedades mecânicas e térmicas dentro da faixa relatada na literatura, mostrando-se adequada para ser utilizada em materiais compósitos poliméricos.In recent years, the interest in the use of natural fibers in polymeric composite materials has increased significantly. In this work were investigated the structural, thermal, chemical, and physical properties of Brazilian sisal fiber from Agave sisalana variety. Our aim was to evaluate the quality and the performance of this fiber for industrial applications. Mechanical properties, chemical composition, X ray diffraction, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM have been investigated with fibers along their length. The Brazilian sisal fibers studied have exhibited mechanical and thermal properties within the range reported in the literature and were suitable for use in polymeric composites.

  9. EFECTOS DE LA ADICIÓN DE FIBRA DE POLIPROPILENO EN LAS PROPIEDADES PLÁSTICAS Y MECÁNICAS DEL CONCRETO HIDRÁULICO

    OpenAIRE

    Armas Aguilar, César Hugo; Universidad Señor de Sipán SAC

    2016-01-01

    Se estudió experimentalmente los efectos de la adición de fibra de polipropileno en las propiedades plásticas (asentamiento, contenido de aire, peso unitario, temperatura y potencial de fisuración) y mecánicas (compresión y flexión) del concreto hidráulico en la región Lambayeque, mediante adiciones de fibra en dosis de 0, 200, 300 y 400 gr/m³ de concreto de resistencias a la compresión de 175, 210 y 280 kg/cm². Se utilizó agregado fino y grueso (piedra de ½ pulg.) de las canteras La Victoria...

  10. Unexpected exacerbations following initiation of disease-modifying drugs in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder: Which factor is responsible, anti-aquaporin 4 antibodies, B cells, Th1 cells, Th2 cells, Th17 cells, or others?

    Science.gov (United States)

    Kira, Jun-Ichi

    2017-08-01

    Some disease-modifying drugs for multiple sclerosis, which mainly act on T cells, are ineffective for neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder and induce unexpected relapses. These include interferon beta, glatiramer acetate, fingolimod, natalizumab, and alemtuzumab. The cases reported here suggest that dimethyl fumarate, which reduces the number of Th1 and Th17 cells and induces IL-4-producing Th2 cells, is also unsuitable for neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder, irrespective of anti-aquaporin 4 IgG serostatus. Although oral dimethyl fumarate with manageable adverse effects is easy to initiate in the early course of multiple sclerosis, special attention should be paid for atypical demyelinating cases.

  11. Estudio del comportamiento en zonas sísmicas del hormigón pretensado con refuerzo de fibras = Study of the behavior in seismic zones of reinforced prestressed concrete

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Eugenia Soledad Carbel

    2016-12-01

    Full Text Available El hormigón pretensado reforzado con fibras, presenta simultáneamente las ventajas de los hormigones pretensados y de los reforzados con fibras. Se consigue un material de altas prestaciones en cuanto a su tenacidad, ductilidad y resistencia a la tracción, como así también para mejorar las características de agrietamiento y de deformación de los elementos estructurales del hormigón causados por solicitaciones sísmicas. En este trabajo se ha estudiado el comportamiento mecánico de un hormigón pretensado reforzado con fibras de acero y de poliamida , y su capacidad de resistir las grandes fuerzas de inercia causadas por las solicitaciones sísmicas. Para una evaluación comparativa se presentan ensayos de corte cíclico entre muros estructurales construidos con hormigón convencional y los reforzados con fibras, mediante modelos de histéresis. Los resultados muestran la variación de respuesta del hormigón con el tiempo, la diferencia existente con los hormigones tradicionales y la viabilidad del empleo de fibras. Comprobando que la adición de fibras en el hormigón armado convencional puede mejorar las actuaciones estructurales y funcionales, de las estructuras de hormigón relacionadas a las acciones sísmicas, a su vez las fibras de acero son más eficaces en mejorar el rendimiento de corte de PCCV que fibras de poliamida. Abstract Prestressed concrete reinforced with fibers, simultaneously presents the advantages of prestressed concrete and reinforced with fibers. It achieves a high performance material in terms of its toughness, ductility and tensile strength, as well as to improve the cracking and deformation characteristics of the structural elements of the concrete caused by seismic stresses. In this work the mechanical behavior of a prestressed concrete reinforced with steel and polyamide fibers and its ability to withstand the large forces of inertia caused by seismic stresses has been studied. For a comparative evaluation

  12. COMPORTAMENTO EM COMPRESSÃO DE ARGAMASSAS REFORÇADAS COM FIBRAS NATURAIS. I RELAÇÃO TENSÃO-DEFORMAÇÃO EXPERIMENTAL E PROCESSO DE FRATURA

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Romildo Dias Toledo Filho

    Full Text Available RESUMO Esta é a primeira parte de um artigo dividido em duas partes e visa avaliar, analítica e experimentalmente, o comportamento em compressão de argamassas reforçadas com fibras naturais. No presente artigo pretende-se mostrar, de forma experimental, como a adição de fibras de sisal e coco afeta, em várias frações volumétricas e comprimentos, o comportamento tensão-deformação, em compressão, de duas matrizes de argamassa. A influência dessas fibras no processo de fratura das argamassas é também avaliada. O efeito da substituição parcial do cimento Portland (OPC por micro- sílica e escória de alto forno no comportamento dos compósitos é também discutido. Os resultados indicam que a adição de fibras naturais reduziu a resistência a compressão das matrizes em cerca de 18% a 32% e, de forma desprezível o seu módulo de elasticidade mas, não modificou, de forma significativa, o coeficiente de Poisson. Por outro lado, as fibras confinaram o material retardando a propagação da primeira fissura e aumentando a tenacidade pós-carga de pico do material. Com relação ao processo de fratura da argamassa, os resultados indicam que, até a tensão de ruptura, o efeito da adição de fibras de sisal e coco é similar às características produzidas pelo acréscimo da quantidade de areia na matriz de argamassa. A substituição parcial de OPC por escória e micro-sílica conduziu a misturas com uma resistência a compressão ligeiramente mais alta que a das preparadas apenas com OPC. A substituição do OPC resultou tanto na redução quanto no aumento do módulo de elasticidade, enquanto o coeficiente de Poisson não foi modificado significativamente.

  13. Avaliação da determinação da fibra em detergente neutro e da fibra em detergente ácido pelo sistema ANKOM

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Berchielli Telma Teresinha

    2001-01-01

    Full Text Available O objetivo do trabalho foi comparar os valores de fibra em detergente neutro (FDN e os de fibra em detergente ácido (FDA obtidos com o equipamento ANKOM e pelo método convencional (Van Soest. No primeiro ensaio foram analisados cinco materiais diferentes (cana-de-açúcar, capim-braquiária, silagem de milho, polpa cítrica e fezes bovina e testados quatro tipos de saquinhos para filtragem de amostra. O delineamento experimental foi em blocos casualizados, em um fatorial 5x4 (cinco materiais diferentes e quatro tipos de saquinhos de filtragem, com três repetições. As médias obtidas foram comparadas àquelas obtidas com método convencional. No segundo ensaio procurou-se avaliar o efeito da quantidade de amostra por saquinho (0,5; 0,8 e 1,0 g sobre os teores de FDN e FDA em três tipos de alimentos, utilizando o ANKOM. Neste ensaio, o delineamento experimental foi em blocos casualizados em esquema fatorial 3x3 (três alimentos x três quantidades, com três repetições. Os tipos de saquinhos de filtragem utilizados não influenciaram os teores de FDN nos diferentes alimentos, com exceção das fezes, cujos saquinhos de náilon resultaram em concentrações de FDN inferiores. Não houve diferença entre os valores de FDN e FDA, obtidos pelo equipamento ANKOM ou pelo convencional, para os alimentos estudados, com exceção da polpa cítrica, cujo valor médio de FDA pelo ANKOM foi inferior àquele obtido pelo método convencional. A quantidade não exerceu efeito sobre a concentração de FDN dos alimentos analisados no equipamento ANKOM.

  14. Aplicaciones del cemento reforzado con fibra de vidrio (GRC

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Barros Llerena, Ángel

    1981-12-01

    Full Text Available Not available.

    El presente artículo tiene como objeto dar a conocer la utilización de fibras de vidrio como refuerzo de los cementos. Se da una breve reseña histórica, se mencionan sus características y comportamiento. Además se presenta un caso práctico y reciente de utilización en la fabricación de elementos de fachada del Estadio «Santiago Bernabéu» del Real Madrid C. de F., y se completa con una relación de los actuales y futuros usos del G.R.C. (glass reinforced cement, denominación inglesa del material más comúnmente utilizado.

  15. Fiber into the loop transmission. Transmision por fibra optica hacia el abonado

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Martin Minguez, A.

    1993-03-15

    In this paper some considerations are presented about Fiber into the Loop (FITL) transmission. A preliminary comparison between copper and optical cables is made and the conclusion is the convenience to introduce optical fiber in the subcriber loop for narrow-band and broadband services transmission. Some comments are made about the structure of the optical plant regarding topology: passive, active, point to point, point to multipoint, etc., and also, about the use of the optical windows (2nd and 3nd) in the fiber. Procedures for the optical maintenance of the network are outlined due to their great importance to the PTTs. Transmission methods and their application in the PON (Passive Optical Networks) for point to multipoint transmission (TDM, TDMA) are considered. (Author)

  16. Serial quantitative MR assessment of optic neuritis in a case of neuromyelitis optica, using gadolinium-'enhanced' STIR imaging

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Barkhof, F.; Scheltens, P.; Valk, J. (Vrije Univ., Amsterdam (Netherlands). Dept. of Diagnostic Radiology); Waalewijn, C.; Uitdehaag, B.M.J.; Polman, C.H. (Vrije Univ., Amsterdam (Netherlands). Dept. of Neurology)

    1991-02-01

    A patient is presented with neuromyelitis optica. MR imaging, using a short inversion time inversion recovery (STIR) technique, clearly depicted the lesion in the left optic nerve. Subsequent serial STIR imaging, with and without Gadolinium-DTPA, allowed quantitative assessment of changes parallel to improved optic nerve function. STIR imaging is a sensitive technique to demonstrate optic nerve lesions, and enables quantitative assessment to be made of the effect of (steroid) medication. (orig.).

  17. Simulación numérica del comportamiento elástico del concreto reforzado con fibras cortas de acero en condición plana de esfuerzos

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Fabian Lamus

    2011-01-01

    Full Text Available Este trabajo describe un modelo numérico implementado en el método de los elementos finitos (Hughes, 2000, el cual permite simular el comportamiento elástico del concreto reforzado con fibras cortas de dirección aleatoria. En estructuras hechas de dicho material cada punto está compuesto por fibras cortas de acero embebidas en una matriz de concreto simple. En el interior de un elemento finito el concreto reforzado se representa como un material ortótropo de dirección material aleatoria, basado en el modelo de fibras con diámetro despreciable (Dvorak y Bahei-el-Din, 1982 y la teoría de mezclas modificada para refuerzo de corta longitud (Oller, 2003. El análisis estadístico realizado consiste en: repetir la simulación numérica del problema cambiando la dirección de las fibras mediante una función aleatoria, construir la base de datos de muestreo a partir de los resultados obtenidos y medir la dispersión de estos últimos. A continuación, en este trabajo se estudia la sensibilidad del tamaño de los elementos finitos y del número de datos de muestreo en el cálculo de la energía total de deformación y se establecen algunos valores recomendables. Como ejemplo de aplicación se obtuvo la respuesta estructural promedio de una viga de concreto reforzado con diferentes cuantías de fibras cortas de acero, observando una dispersión mínima de los datos.

  18. Características tecnológicas de 16 maderas del Estado de Tamaulipas, que influyen en la fabricación de tableros de partículas y de fibras

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    M. Fuentes-Salinas

    2008-01-01

    Full Text Available En el presente estudio se evaluaron cuatro características de 16 maderas de la selva baja caducifolia del sur del estado de Tamaulipas, México, con el propósito de determinar la posibilidad de usarlas para la fabricación de tableros de partículas y tableros de fibras. Las maderas estudiadas fueron: Myrcianthes fragrans, Phoebe tampicensis, Casimiroa pringley, Acacia berlandieri, Drypetes lateriflora, Esenbeckia berlandieri, Lysiloma divaricata, Robinsonella discolor, Sapindus saponaria, Harpalyce arborescens, Wimmeria concolor, Krugiodendrom ferreum, Ebanopsis ebano, Pithecellobium pallens, Zanthoxylum fagara y Cordia boissieri. Las características evaluadas fueron la longitud de fibra, la relación longitud-diámetro de fibra, conocida como coeficiente de Péteri, la densidad básica, el pH y la razón de compresión que se requiere para fabricar tableros de partículas de densidad media y tableros de fibras duras. Las maderas evaluadas presentaron un rango de longitud de fibra de 653 a 1,229 μ, el Coeficiente de Péteri resultó desde 43.14 hasta 82.45. El rango del pH para las maderas fue de 5.06 a 7.64. La densidad básica mostró un rango de 0.56 a 0.97 g·cm-3. Con los valores obtenidos y su análisis, se consideró que de manera individual 11 maderas pueden ser aptas para la fabricación de tableros de partículas de densidad media. Haciendo mezclas de maderas, pueden aprovecharse hasta 12 especies. En lo que respecta a tableros de fibras duras y extraduras, se considera que se pueden fabricar con todas las maderas.

  19. The expanded spectrum of neuromyelitis optica: evidences for a new definition

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Marco A Lana-Peixoto

    2012-10-01

    Full Text Available Neuromyelitis optica (NMO has been traditionally described as the association of recurrent or bilateral optic neuritis and longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis (LETM. Identification of aquaporin-4 antibody (AQP4-IgG has deeply changed the concept of NMO. A spectrum of NMO disorders (NMOSD has been formulated comprising conditions which include both AQP4-IgG seropositivity and one of the index events of the disease (recurrent or bilateral optic neuritis and LETM. Most NMO patients harbor asymptomatic brain MRI lesions, some of them considered as typical of NMO. Some patients with aquaporin-4 autoimmunity present brainstem, hypothalamic or encephalopathy symptoms either preceding an index event or occurring isolatedly with no evidence of optic nerve or spinal involvement. On the opposite way, other patients have optic neuritis or LETM in association with typical lesions of NMO on brain MRI and yet are AQP4-IgG seronegative. An expanded spectrum of NMO disorders is proposed to include these cases.

  20. Neuromyelitis optica and multiple sclerosis: Seeing differences through optical coherence tomography

    Science.gov (United States)

    Bennett, JL; de Seze, J; Lana-Peixoto, M; Palace, J; Waldman, A; Schippling, S; Tenembaum, S; Banwell, B; Greenberg, B; Levy, M; Fujihara, K; Chan, KH; Kim, HJ; Asgari, N; Sato, DK; Saiz, A; Wuerfel, J; Zimmermann, H; Green, A; Villoslada, P

    2015-01-01

    Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) is an inflammatory autoimmune disease of the central nervous system that preferentially targets the optic nerves and spinal cord. The clinical presentation may suggest multiple sclerosis (MS), but a highly specific serum autoantibody against the astrocytic water channel aquaporin-4 present in up to 80% of NMO patients enables distinction from MS. Optic neuritis may occur in either condition resulting in neuro-anatomical retinal changes. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) has become a useful tool for analyzing retinal damage both in MS and NMO. Numerous studies showed that optic neuritis in NMO typically results in more severe retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) and ganglion cell layer thinning and more frequent development of microcystic macular edema than in MS. Furthermore, while patients’ RNFL thinning also occurs in the absence of optic neuritis in MS, subclinical damage seems to be rare in NMO. Thus, OCT might be useful in differentiating NMO from MS and serve as an outcome parameter in clinical studies. PMID:25662342

  1. Detection and clinical value of NMO-IgG in neuromyelitis optica

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    De-hui HUANG

    2014-09-01

    Full Text Available Neuromyelitis optica (NMO is an inflammatory demyelinating disease of the central nervous system (CNS of autoimmune etiology which predominantly affects the optic nerves and spinal cord. In 2004, a highly specific serum antibody, NMO-IgG, was found in the sera of NMO patients. Subsequently, the target antigen of NMO-IgG was identified as aquaporin 4 (AQP4, a water channel densely expressed in optic nerves, spinal cord and area around cerebral ventricles. NMO-IgG/AQP4 antibody has demonstrated extreme importance for the diagnosis and differential diagnosis, the evaluation of disease activity, therapeutic effect and prognosis of NMO. In recent years, different techniques have been used to examine NMO-IgG in serum and cerebrospinal fluid, including tissue-based, cell-based and protein-based assays. In this review, the authors give an overview of the tests currently available for the detection of NMO-IgG and their clinical significance. doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1672-6731.2014.09.003

  2. Neuromyelitis optica accompanied by nephrotic syndrome and autoimmune-related pancytopenia.

    Science.gov (United States)

    ZhangBao, Jingzi; Zhou, Lei; Lu, Jiahong; Xi, Jianying; Zhao, Chongbo; Quan, Chao

    2016-05-01

    Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) associated with nephrotic syndrome and autoimmune-related pancytopenia has not been reported previously. We report herein a young woman who initially presented with bilateral blurring of vision and numbness in her hands. MRI disclosed multiple white matter lesions and a long cervical spinal cord lesion extending to the medulla oblongata. Serum aquaporin-4 antibody was positive and the patient was diagnosed with NMO. While in the hospital, she presented with hypoproteinemia and heavy proteinuria, meeting the diagnostic criteria of nephrotic syndrome. After high-dose methylprednisolone treatment, her vision improved significantly and urine protein quantity decreased. However, the patient subsequently developed severe pancytopenia with a positive Coombs' test. Thrombocytopenia finally led to uncontrollable gastrointestinal bleeding as the direct cause of the patient's death. This case illustrates the extremely rare condition of concurrence of NMO, nephrotic syndrome, and autoimmune pancytopenia in one patient, which suggests the involvement of organs beyond the central nervous system in NMO spectrum disorders. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  3. Catálogo de Radio-Fuentes Opticas con Astrolabio Fotoeléctrico PAII

    Science.gov (United States)

    Manrique, W. T.; Podestá, R. C.; Alonso, E.; Actis, E. V.; Pacheco, A. M.; Bustos, G.; Lizhi, L.; Zezhi, W.; Fanmiao, Z.; Hongqi, W.; Perdomo, R.

    Usando los datos observados en San Juan con el Astrolabio Fotoeléctrico PAII desde Febrero de 1992 hasta Marzo de 1997, se ha realizado el Catálogo de Radio-Fuentes Opticas de San Juan conteniendo 69 estrellas. Las observaciones de las posiciones de las radio-fuentes están realizadas para la época y equinoccio J2000,0 y en un sistema cercano al del FK5. Las precisiones medias son ± 2,2 ms y ± 0,"035 en ascensión recta y declinación respectivamente. Las magnitudes de las estrellas son desde 0,9 a 10,7 . Las declinaciones son desde --2,5 grados a --60 grados. La época media es 1995,1. Se muestran también los resultados comparados con el Catálogo Hiparcos.

  4. Laser of optical fiber composed by two coupled cavities: application as optical fiber sensor; Laser de fibra optica compuesto por dos cavidades acopladas: aplicacion como sensor de fibra optica

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Vazquez S, R.A.; Kuzin, E.A.; Ibarra E, B. [Instituto Nacional de Astrofisica, Optica y Electronica (INAOE), A.P. 51 y 216, 72000 Puebla (Mexico); May A, M. [Universidad Autonoma del Carmen (UNACAR) Av. 56 No. 4 por Av. Concordia, Campeche (Mexico); Shlyagin, M.; Marquez B, I. [Centro de Investigacion Cientifica y de Ensenanza Superior de Ensenada (CICESE), 22860 Ensenada, Baja California (Mexico)]. e-mail: ravsa100@hotmail.com

    2004-07-01

    We show an optical fiber laser sensor which consist of two cavities coupled and three fiber Bragg gratings. We used one Bragg grating (called reference) and two Bragg gratings (called sensors), which have the lower reflection wavelength. The reference grating with the two sensors grating make two cavities: first one is the internal cavity which has 4230 m of length and the another one is the external cavity which has 4277 m of length. Measuring the laser beating frequency for a resonance cavity and moving the frequency peaks when the another cavity is put in resonance, we prove that the arrangement can be used as a two points sensor for determining the difference of temperature or stress between these two points. (Author)

  5. Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome masquerading as progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy in rituximab treated neuromyelitis optica.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Berger, Joseph R; Neltner, Janna; Smith, Charles; Cambi, Franca

    2014-11-01

    Both progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) and posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) have been reported as complications of rituximab therapy. These disorders may appear indistinguishable on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). We report on a 42 year old woman with neuromyelitis optica (NMO) of 10 years duration who developed extensive white matter disease affecting chiefly both parietal lobes 6 months after her first and only dose of rituximab. The MRI findings suggested the diagnosis of PML, but her history was more consistent with PRES. Ultimately, a brain biopsy was performed which was consistent with the diagnosis of PRES. PRES and PML may have overlapping symptomatology and be indistinguishable on MRI. An approach to distinguishing between these two disorders is addressed. Copyright © 2014. Published by Elsevier B.V.

  6. Endocrinopathies in paediatric-onset neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder with aquaporin 4 (AQP4) antibody.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Hacohen, Yael; Messina, Silvia; Gan, Hoong-Wei; Wright, Sukhvir; Chandratre, Saleel; Leite, Maria Isabel; Fallon, Penny; Vincent, Angela; Ciccarelli, Olga; Wassmer, Evangeline; Lim, Ming; Palace, Jacqueline; Hemingway, Cheryl

    2018-04-01

    The involvement of the diencephalic regions in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) may lead to endocrinopathies. In this study, we identified the following endocrinopathies in 60% (15/25) of young people with paediatric-onset aquaporin 4-Antibody (AQP4-Ab) NMOSD: morbid obesity ( n = 8), hyperinsulinaemia ( n = 5), hyperandrogenism ( n = 5), amenorrhoea ( n = 5), hyponatraemia ( n = 4), short stature ( n = 3) and central hypothyroidism ( n = 2) irrespective of hypothalamic lesions. Morbid obesity was seen in 88% (7/8) of children of Caribbean origin. As endocrinopathies were prevalent in the majority of paediatric-onset AQP4-Ab NMOSD, endocrine surveillance and in particular early aggressive weight management is required for patients with AQP4-Ab NMOSD.

  7. Produção de biscoitos extrusados de polvilho azedo com fibras: efeito de parâmetros operacionais sobre as propriedades físicas

    OpenAIRE

    Camargo,Karina Fernandes de; Leonel,Magali; Mischan,Martha Maria

    2008-01-01

    Neste trabalho buscou-se avaliar o efeito de parâmetros operacionais do processo de extrusão no desenvolvimento de biscoitos de polvilho com fibras, utilizando como matérias-primas o polvilho azedo e o farelo de mandioca. O processamento foi realizado em um extrusor mono-rosca, sendo considerados parâmetros variáveis: temperatura na 3ª zona de extrusão, umidade e porcentagem de fibras na mistura. Para analisar o efeito combinado das variáveis independentes nas características tecnológicas dos...

  8. Estudo da flamabilidade e resistência à chama de compósito de poliéster insaturado e fibra da folha do abacaxizeiro (PALF)

    OpenAIRE

    Ribeiro, Luciene Mendes

    2011-01-01

    Na presente pesquisa foram desenvolvidos compósitos com fibras da folha do abacaxizeiro (PALF - Pineapple Leaf Fiber), utilizando resina de poliéster insaturado como matriz, incorporando retardante de chama em diferentes composições. As fibras da folha do abacaxizeiro foram obtidas na ramada 4 do município de Ielmo Marinho no Estado do Rio Grande do Norte. A resina de poliéster insaturado e o catalisador foram comprados no comércio. O retardante de chama de alumina trihidratada (hidróxido de ...

  9. Comparación entre redes de fibras sintéticas y redes de fibras de cáñamo para el refuerzo de muros de albañileria = Comparison between synthetic fiber networks and hemp fiber networks for the reinforcement of masonry walls

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Alessandra Vilardi

    2016-12-01

    Full Text Available La existencia de una gran cantidad de edificios antiguos ha movilizado la investigación para estudiar nuevos sistemas de refuerzo a aquellas construcciones que sean dañadas por decadencia fisiológica o por terremoto. El presente documento demuestra la eficacia de un sistema de refuerzo innovador para los muros de mampostería, constituyentes los elementos estructurales de los edificios históricos. Se hace una comparación entre unas redes bidireccionales de fibras sintéticas tradicionales y las de fibras naturales, ambas pegadas a las dos fachadas del muro con matriz de mortero. El resultado muestra la aplicación de las fibras de cáñamo como refuerzo sísmico y una mayor compatibilidad de estas con el material que caracterizan los edificios antiguos. Abstract The existence of a large number of old buildings has mobilized research to study new systems of reinforcement to those buildings that are damaged by physiological decay or earthquake. This document demonstrates the effectiveness of an innovative reinforcement system for masonry walls, which are the structural elements of historic buildings. A comparison is made between bidirectional networks of traditional synthetic fibers and those of natural fibers, both glued to the two facades of the wall with mortar matrix. The result shows the application of hemp fibers as seismic reinforcement and a greater compatibility of these with the material that characterize the old buildings.

  10. DESENVOLVIMENTO DE PRODUTO À BASE DE FIBRAS DE BETERRABA (BETA VULGARIS VARIEDADE AÇUCAREIRA

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    CLáUDIA HELENA DEGÁSPARI

    2009-07-01

    Full Text Available

    O presente trabalho procurou desenvolver um produto para atender os indivíduos com doença celíaca. O produto escolhido foi uma formulação de quibe na forma frita. Os testes foram realizados comparando-se uma formulação de quibe contendo trigo integral moído com uma formulação que substituá 100% do trigo por fibra de beterraba (Fibrex® As formulações foram desenvolvidas apenas em protótipo de produto para demonstrar a aplicabilidade deste, submetendo-as a testes de análise sensorial de preferência com emprego do método de escala hedônica, com uma equipe de vinte provadores semitreinados. Os diversos testes sensoriais realizados demonstraram que tanto a formulação com trigo integral quanto a com fibra de beterraba mostraram-se sensorialmente adequadas, sem diferenças entre si nos parâmetros sensoriais avaliados, exceto no atributo aroma em que o resultado apontou uma diferença significativa de 5% em favor da formulação com fibra de beterraba. Pelos resultados de aceitabilidade, acredita-se ter esse produto um bom potencial de comercialização, principalmente para o público portador de doença celíaca. Da mesma forma, os cálculos de estimativa realizados para verificar o possível aumento no custo final do produto demonstraram que este não interfere significativamente, uma vez que o ingrediente que se apresenta com maior contribuição no custo final é a carne.

  11. Influências de fibra de aço no comportamento estrutural de vigotas reforçadas com PRFC

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    V. J. Ferrari

    Full Text Available Neste trabalho, apresenta-se a metodologia utilizada e os resultados da análise do comportamento de vigotas armadas e reforçadas externamente à flexão com manta de PRFC (polímeros reforçados com fibras de carbono. Avalia-se o comportamento do reforço de vigotas de concreto comum e compara-o com o do reforço de vigotas moldadas com um compósito cimentício à base de argamassa e fibras curtas de aço. O objetivo principal foi investigar a influência do compósito cimentício (escolhido sem maiores critérios sobre o comportamento e o modo de ruína das vigotas reforçadas. Para tanto, uma série de ensaios de flexão em três pontos em seis vigotas foi conduzida, além dos ensaios de caracterização dos materiais: ensaios de flexão em três pontos em corpos-de-prova prismáticos entalhados, ensaios de tração em barras de aço e ensaios de compressão axial em corpos-de-prova cilíndricos. Adicionalmente, uma análise de elementos finitos foi desenvolvida com objetivo de comparar os resultados obtidos com os experimentais. O ganho de tenacidade e de resistência à fissuração provocou mudanças significativas no desempenho da vigota moldada com fibras e reforçada quando comparada com a vigota reforçada de concreto comum.

  12. Acumulación de daño y redistribución de los esfuerzos en materiales reforzados con fibras

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Anatoli S. Ovchinsky

    2013-01-01

    Full Text Available Se analiza el proceso de fractura de materiales compuestos, considerando la interacción de diferentes factores que tienen un carácter muy particular. La resistencia a la ruptura de las fibras, la resistencia localizada de la matriz y la fuerza de adherencia entre la fibra y la matriz, por lo general varían de manera substancial y, además, la distribución del reforzamiento es errática y casual. Analíticamente la interacción entre estos imprevisibles factores durante la fractura del compuesto no pueden ser plenamente descritos mediante el uso de métodos probabilísticos. El desarrollo de métodos computacionales abre enormes posibilidades para simular la influencia de estos factores durante el proceso de fractura del compuesto. Determinadas dificultades surgen en el desarrollo de estas investigaciones porque éstas sintetizan problemas de física de materiales, así como de mecánica al tener que considerar y analizar simultáneamente la estructura real del material. Por lo anterior, resulta conveniente junto con la simulación numérica aplicada al estudio de determinados fenómenos y a la solución de problemas prácticos, hacer uso de criterios que son fundamentales para simular los procesos de delaminación de las fibras fracturadas y el desarrollo de grietas en la matriz

  13. Sintesis in situ de nanopartículas de peróxido de zinc sobre fibras de plátano con potencial en la industria textil

    OpenAIRE

    María Estefanía Ballesteros García; John Ricardo Jr. Duran Romero; Juliana Gutiérrez Corrales; Alis Pataquiva-Mateus

    2017-01-01

    El presente trabajo de investigación plantea un desarrollo entorno al manejo de residuos en los cultivos de plátano, siendo una idea sostenible con respecto a la extracción y adquisición de fibras con cualidades innovadoras que posean nanopartículas (NPs) de ZnO2 como la capacidad antimicrobiana. La finalidad de la investigación fue la de nanoestructurar fibras provenientes de residuos del plátano con NPs de peróxido de zinc como una propuesta sostenible, teniendo en cuenta factores de optimi...

  14. Efeito terapêutico da fibra goma-guar parcialmente hidrolisada na constipação intestinal funcional em pacientes hospitalizados Effect of partially hidrolized guar-gum in the treatment of functional constipation among hospitalized patients

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Geise Maria da Silva Belo

    2008-03-01

    Full Text Available Avaliação do impacto da fibra goma-guar parcialmente hidrolisada na constipação intestinal funcional em pacientes hospitalizados. Ensaio clínico com 64 adultos, randomizados para duas dietas: grupo 1 dieta laxante (± 30 g de fibras e grupo 2 mesma dieta + 10 g de fibra goma-guar parcialmente hidrolisada, durante 15 dias. A dieta laxante ou acrescida da referida fibra reduziu em 78% a constipação intestinal funcional, assim como sua adição não provocou efeito adicional na freqüência evacuatória, consistência fecal, uso de laxativos, embora tenha reduzido a sintomatologia gastrointestinal. Fibras devem ser utilizadas no tratamento da constipação intestinal funcional; entretanto, a suplementação com fibra goma-guar parcialmente hidrolisada precisa ser melhor investigada.The effect of hydrolyzed partially guar-gum was evaluated in the treatment of functional constipation among hospitalized patients. Following a randomized blind controlled-trial 64 adults were allocated to two groups: one received daily high-fiber diet (@ 30 g and the other similar diet plus 10 g of hydrolyzed partially guar-gum, during 15 days. Dietary fiber reduced functional constipation by 78.0%. Hydrolyzed partially guar-gum did not show any additional effect in defecation frequency, fecal consistence, need of laxative drug use, although a reduction in bowel complaints. Dietary fiber may be used in the treatment of functional constipation. However the therapeutic role of hydrolyzed partially guar-gum should be further investigated.

  15. NMO-IgG: A Specific Biomarker for Neuromyelitis Optica

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Brian G. Weinshenker

    2006-01-01

    Full Text Available Neuromyelitis optica (NMO is an inflammatory demyelinating disease that principally targets the optic nerves and spinal cord and often leads to severe disability and occasionally life threatening respiratory failure. Although its clinical manifestations overlap with those of multiple sclerosis (MS, in established cases these two conditions can be distinguished on the basis of clinical, radiological, and routine spinal fluid studies. The diagnosis in early cases or limited forms of NMO is difficult. We recently discovered a unique IgG autoantibody (NMO-IgG that is highly specific to patients with NMO and thus a valuable diagnostic aid. Its antigen, aquaporin-4 (AQP4, is the central nervous system’s predominant water channel protein. This antibody has not yet been proven to be pathogenic, but several facts suggest that it might be, including the similarity of the immunohistochemical pattern of NMO-(AQP4 IgG binding to mouse CNS tissues to the pattern of immune complex deposition in autopsied patients’ spinal cord tissue. The spectrum of diseases identified by NMO-IgG is broader than has previously been recognized clinically and includes incomplete forms of NMO, such as recurrent transverse myelitis without optic neuritis and recurrent optic neuritis without myelitis.

  16. Ovarian Reserve in Women With Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Jan Thöne

    2018-06-01

    Full Text Available Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD is a neuroinflammatory disease. The majority of NMOSD patients is seropositive for aquaporin-4 (AQP4 antibodies. AQP4 is the main water channel protein in the central nervous system, but has also been identified in the female reproductive system. Fertility issues and ovarian reserve has not yet been studied in females with NMOSD. The purpose of this study was to measure serum Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH in females with NMOSD compared to healthy controls (HC, in combination with other lifestyle and reproduction parameters. AMH is independent from the menstrual cycle and a reliable indicator of both ovarian reserve and ovarian function. We included a total of 32 reproductive-age females, 18 HC and 14 with NMOSD. We used an enzymatically amplified two-site immunoassay to determine serum AMH level. In comparison to HC, mean AMH value was reduced in NMOSD. Apart from that significantly more women with NMOSD showed low AMH levels (< 0.8 ng/ml. Low AMH was associated with disease activity. In contrast, none of the immunotherapies for NMOSD, neither any reproductive life style parameter was associated with a decreased AMH. Our results contribute to understanding of hindered fertility in females with NMOSD and enables neurologists to better counsel female patients.

  17. Neuromyelitis optica in pregnancy complicated by posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome, eclampsia and fetal death.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Igel, Catherine; Garretto, Diana; Robbins, Matthew S; Swerdlow, Michael; Judge, Nancy; Dayal, Ashlesha

    2015-03-01

    Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) is a demyelinating syndrome characterized by optic neuritis and acute myelitis with poor recovery and a progressive course. We report a poor outcome complicated by posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) and eclampsia and review available literature and current evidence for anticipation of adverse fetal and maternal effects. After a pregnancy complicated by multiple admissions for painful NMO exacerbations, a primiparous patient with seropositive NMO presented at 31 + 3/7 weeks with eclampsia, HELLP and subsequent fetal death. MRI confirmed PRES. NMO may be associated with eclampsia and leads to adverse maternal and fetal outcomes. Posited mechanisms include antibody-mediated placental damage and a heightened risk of eclampsia-associated PRES. Further characterization of the course of NMO and its relationship with pregnancy outcomes in larger series would be invaluable.

  18. Default-mode network and deep gray-matter analysis in neuromyelitis optica patients.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Rueda-Lopes, Fernanda C; Pessôa, Fernanda M C; Tukamoto, Gustavo; Malfetano, Fabíola Rachid; Scherpenhuijzen, Simone Batista; Alves-Leon, Soniza; Gasparetto, Emerson L

    2018-02-20

    The aim of our study was to detect functional changes in default-mode network of neuromyelitis optica (NMO) patients using resting-state functional magnetic resonance images and the evaluation of subcortical gray-matter structures volumes. NMO patients (n=28) and controls patients (n=19) were enrolled. We used the integrated registration and segmentation tool, part of FMRIB's Software Library (FSL) to segment subcortical structures including the thalamus, caudate nucleus, putamen, hippocampus and amygdalae. Resting-state functional magnetic resonance images were post-processed using the Multivariate Exploratory Linear Optimized Decomposition into Independent Components, also part of FSL. Average Z-values extracted from the default-mode network were compared between patients and controls using t-tests (P values default-mode network of patients compared to controls, notably in the precuneus and right hippocampus (corrected Pdefault-mode network. The hyperactivity of certain default-mode network areas may reflect cortical compensation for subtle structural damage in NMO patients. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

  19. Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder in patient with systemic lupus erythematosus - our experience

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Božić Ksenija

    2018-01-01

    Full Text Available Introduction. Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD is a rare demyelinating immune-mediated central nervous system disease. It is extremely rare to occur in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE, and it represents a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge. Case report. A 38-year-old Caucasian woman with medical history of SLE and new onset of flaccid paraparesis, fecal and urinary incontinence, persistent nausea and vomiting was admitted to our hospital. Based on the clinical presentation, magnetic resonance imaging findings and positive aquaporin 4 (AQP4 antibodies, a NMOSD with coexisting SLE were diagnosed. Pulse-doses of cyclophosphamide and glucocorticoids were efficient in patient treatment. Conclusion. In a patient with SLE and symptoms of longitudinal extensive transverse myelitis and/or optic neuritis and area postrema syndrome, assessment of AQP4 antibodies is neccessary for diagnosing NMOSD. Accurate diagnosis, and timely and long-term administration of immunosuppressive therapy are crucial for favorable outcome of these two coexisting diseases.

  20. Neuropatia experimental por DDT: análise de nervo por microdissecção de fibras

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Edison Matos Nóvak

    1984-09-01

    Full Text Available Estudou-se o nervo gênito-femural do rato albino submetido a intoxicação crônica por DDT, administrado por 180 dias na dose de 5 mg/kg de peso via oral. Os resultados mostraram proporção anormal de fibras tipo C, sendo sugerido ocorrer degeneração tipo axonal determinada pelo DDT.

  1. The Contribution of Optical Coherence Tomography in Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorders

    Science.gov (United States)

    Mateo, Javier; Esteban, Olivia; Martínez, Mireya; Grzybowski, Andrzej; Ascaso, Francisco Javier

    2017-01-01

    Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSD) comprises a group of central nervous system disorders of inflammatory autoimmune origin that mainly affect the optic nerves and the spinal cord and can cause severe visual and general disability. The clinical signs are similar to those of multiple sclerosis (MS), with the result that it is often difficult to differentiate between the two, thus leading to misdiagnosis. As the treatment and prognosis of NMOSD and MS are different, it is important to make an accurate and early diagnosis of NMOSD. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is a non-invasive technique that enables a quantitative study of the changes that the optic nerve and the macula undergo in several neurodegenerative diseases. Many studies have shown that some of these changes, such as retinal nerve fiber layer thinning or microcystic macular edema, can be related to alterations in the brain due to neurodegenerative disorders. The purpose of this mini-review is to show how OCT can be useful for the diagnosis of NMOSD and follow-up of affected patients, as well as for the differential diagnosis with MS. PMID:29085325

  2. Neuromyelitis optica-IgG testing in an Indian cohort with neuromyelitis optica and related demyelinating disorders: Our experience

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Narayanan Unni

    2013-01-01

    Full Text Available Background: Neuromyelitis optica (NMO is an immune-mediated inflammatory demyelinating disorder of the central nervous system with a predilection for the optic nerves and the spinal cord. Immunopathological evidence suggests that the target antigen of the disease is aquaporin-4. An IgG antibody against this protein has been explored as a molecular marker for the disease and as a diagnostic tool due to its high sensitivity and specificity in various populations. Objective: To assess the value of NMO-IgG testing in Indian patients with clinical and magnetic resonance imaging features consistent with NMO and longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis (LETM. Materials and Methods: Forty-five patients with clinical and magnetic resonance imaging features consistent with NMO, LETM, and MS were tested for serum NMO-IgG. Of these patients, 22 patients satisfied revised (2006 Wingerchuk criteria for NMO (excluding NMO-IgG status and 11 patients had LETM. Twelve patients satisfied the revised (2010 McDonald criteria for multiple sclerosis (MS. Results: Of the 21 patients, satisfying the criteria for NMO and for whom the test results were available, 17 were positive for NMO-IgG (80.9%, and of the 11 patients having LETM, 6 (54.5% were positive for NMO-IgG. In one patient with NMO, the test result was not available. None of the 12 patients satisfying McDonald criteria for MS showed NMO-IgG seropositivity. Conclusion: Our study suggests that it is worthwhile to pursue NMO-IgG testing as a diagnostic tool for patients with clinical and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI features consistent with NMO and LETM in the Indian population.

  3. Avaliação da biodegradação de compósitos de poli(ε-caprolactona/fibra de coco verde Evaluation of biodegradation poly(ε-caprolactone/green coconut fiber

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Marcia C. A. M. Leite

    2010-01-01

    Full Text Available Uma classe de plásticos com destaque crescente são os polímeros biodegradáveis, como a Poli(ε-caprolactona (PCL. Quando esses polímeros são utilizados para elaboração de compósitos com fibras naturais, novas propriedades são agregadas. Existem vários métodos de modificação química da fibra para melhorar a adesão dessas fibras em matrizes poliméricas. Neste trabalho foi estudada a biodegradabilidade em solo simulado de compósitos de PCL/fibra de coco (antes e após a modificação química da fibra por reação de acetilação com avaliação da perda de massa e da modificação da morfologia. A espectroscopia na região do infravermelho mostrou a eficiência da reação de acetilação nas fibras. Os compósitos enterrados em solo simulado apresentaram perda de massa e a degradação das amostras foi confirmada pela modificação da morfologia observada através de análises como as Microscopias Óptica e Eletrônica de Varredura. O comportamento térmico dos compósitos, analisado por Calorimetria Diferencial de Varredura mostrou diferença no teor de cristalinidade da matriz com a incorporação da fibra.Biodegradable polymers such as poly (ε-caprolactone (PCL have received increasing attention. New properties are achieved when these polymers are used in composites with natural fibers. Several methods exist for the chemical modification of the fiber to improve adhesion to the polymer matrices. This work deals with the biodegradation in simulated soil of PCL/coconut fiber composites (before and after fiber chemical modification by acetylation - reaction with the evaluation of mass loss and morphology. Infrared spectroscopy has shown the efficiency of fiber acetylation. The composites buried in simulated soil presented weight loss. The degradation of the samples was confirmed by the morphology modification observed by Scanning Electron Microscopy and Optical Microscopy analysis. The thermal properties analyzed with

  4. DIGESTIBILIDADE IN VITRO DE PROTEÍNAS DE FEIJÕES – COMPROMETIMENTO DE AMINOÁCIDOS COM COMPONENTES DA FRAÇÃO FIBRA DA DIETA

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Andréa Márcia de Oliveira GOMES

    2009-07-01

    Full Text Available

    RESUMO: O objetivo do presente trabalho foi verificar o comprometimento dos aminoácidos essenciais com os componentes de fração insolúvel da fibra da dieta (celulose e lignina e sua relação com a baixa digestibilidade apresentada pelos feijões. Foram estudados o feijão-comum (Phaseolus vulgaris, variedade preto, e o feijão-fradinho (Vigna sinensis. Foi determinado o nitrogênio protéico retido nos resíduos de NDF (fibra detergente neutro, ADF (fibra detergente ácido e lignina, das amostras cozidas e dessecadas. A digestibilidade in vitro das proteínas foi determinada por hidrólise enzimática com pepsina e pancreatina, nas amostras de feijões e nos resíduos de NDF, ADF e lignina. Os resultados encontrados mostraram uma baixa digestibilidade in vitro para os resíduos de NDF, ADF e lignina, que contribuem para a baixa digestibilidade apresentada pelos feijões. Foi observada uma relação entre a digestibilidade e a proporção entre proteína e celulose. A celulose apresentou a maior porcentagem de proteína não hidrolisada (18,02% e 11,78%, seguindo-se a lignina (3,08% e 3,29% e as hemiceluloses (0,09% e 0,18%, nas amostras de feijão-preto e fradinho, respectivamente. Foi observado que a celulose apresenta o maior comprometimento de aminoácidos essenciais, com valores entre 7,14% e 8,35% e 7,55% e 7,81%, respectivamente para o feijão preto e fradinho. PALAVRAS-CHAVE: Fibra de dieta; digestibilidade in vitro de proteínas; aminoácidos essenciais; feijões; Phaseolus vulgaris; Vigna sinensis.

  5. Neuromyelitis optica: a positive appraisal of seronegative cases.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Bernard-Valnet, R; Liblau, R S; Vukusic, S; Marignier, R

    2015-12-01

    Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) is a rare inflammatory disorder of the central nervous system. The hallmark of NMO is the presence of specific autoantibodies directed against aquaporin 4 (AQP4-IgG). AQP4-IgG, included in diagnostic criteria, has enlarged the clinical spectrum of NMO and serves to predict relapses. Moreover AQP4-IgG has provided unprecedented insight in the immunopathology of NMO, representing a rationale for therapeutic intervention with relevant novel treatment strategies specific for NMO. However, some patients remain seronegative for AQP4-IgG despite a definite diagnosis of NMO and the use of the finest methods for antibody detection. Interestingly, seronegative NMO (NMO(neg)) patients exhibit different demographic and disease-related characteristics in comparison to seropositive patients. The recent association with autoantibodies specific for myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG) is the main indication that disease mechanisms might differ in NMO(pos) and NMO(neg), challenging the position of NMO(neg) patients in the spectrum of demyelinating diseases and therapeutic strategies to be adopted. Thus, a reappraisal of the NMO(neg) population is needed to improve NMO care. Here the current knowledge regarding NMO(neg) is reviewed and hypotheses on its pathogenesis are made including a comprehensive description of detection methods and the prevalence of AQP4-IgG and a review of the epidemiological, clinical and paraclinical characteristics of NMO(neg); finally an integrated view of the general pathophysiological mechanisms underlying NMO(neg) is provided. © 2015 EAN.

  6. Utilização da fibra bruta na nutrição da piracanjuba (Brycon orbignyanus Effect of crude fiber on the nutrition of piracanjuba (Brycon orbignyanus

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Evoy Zaniboni Filho

    1999-11-01

    Full Text Available Este experimento teve por objetivo avaliar o desempenho da piracanjuba, quando arraçoada com dietas contendo diferentes níveis de fibra bruta. Empregou-se um lote de 60 alevinos, com peso médio de 17,40±3,06g e comprimento padrão médio de 11,70±0,73cm, alojados em 12 aquários circulares de fibra de vidro com capacidade para 150L e numa lotação de cinco peixes por aquário, com abastecimento de água proporcionado por um sistema de circulação fechada. Utilizaram-se rações com semelhante composição em proteína (32%, níveis de energia que variaram de 3.037 a 3.356 kcal ED/kg de ração e níveis crescentes de fibra bruta (5%, 7%, 8% e 9% por 105 dias. Constatou-se que os peixes apresentaram melhor resposta de ganho de peso, quando arraçoados com dietas contendo 9% de fibra bruta e que a utilização de níveis de fibra bruta, acima dos convencionalmente empregados, proporcionou baixos níveis de gordura na carcaça, sem que houvesse prejuízos ao desempenho zootécnico, e que as rações podem ser elaboradas empregando-se subprodutos de origem vegetal ricos em fibra bruta.The present experiment evaluated the performance of Brycon orbignyanus fed on diets with different levels of crude fiber. Fish with mean weight of 17.40±3.06 g and total length of 11.70±0,73cm were stocked in 12 fiberglass aquariums (150 L fitted with center standpipes in a recirculating system at a density of 5 fish/aquarium. The fish were fed four diets containing similar levels of protein (32%, energy levels varyng from 3,037 to 3,356 kcal DE/kg, and crude fiber levels of 5%; 7%; 85 and 9% for 105 days. The fish had better weight gain when fed diet containing 9% of crude fiber, and it can be concluded that fish fed diets containing higher levels of crude fiber than usually used result in fish with less fat on carcass without loss of growth, and by products of plant origin rich in fiber could be used to produce diets for this kind of fish.

  7. FIBRAS ANIMALES ARQUEOLÓGICAS. ESTUDIO DE LA ESTRUCTURA FÍSICA CELULAR DE LAS FIBRAS/Archaeological animal fibres. Study of their physical cellular structure

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    María del Carmen Reigadas

    2012-11-01

    Full Text Available El análisis microscópico de la morfología de fibras animales se ha empleado conjuntamente con otras líneas de evidencia, brindando información taxonómica útil para reconstruir posibles escenarios que den cuenta de las estrategias implementadas por las sociedades cazadoras- recolectoras y/ o productoras, en vistas a la explotación y aprovechamiento de los recursos animales. En esta oportunidad y en el marco de la vía mencionada, se presenta como complemento de los resultados obtenidos a partir de las variables cualitativas y cuantitativas tales como grosor, médula, tipo de fibra y color, el avance realizado en el estudio de la corteza, estructura no contemplada hasta el presente. Se evalúa a partir de la información generada su relevancia en la búsqueda de indicadores interespecíficos. El análisis fue realizado en muestras correspondientes al nivel 4 del sitio Cueva Salamanca 1 (7500 + 60 AP [Beta 178223] (Pintar 2004 y nivel 4 de Quebrada Seca 3 (Cal. 3684- 4226 1s (Aschero et al. 1993-94, ambos localizados en la puna meridional (Antofagasta de la Sierra, Argentina de las cuales ya se disponen designaciones taxonómicas obtenidas por análisis morfológico. Abstract Microscopic analysis of the morphology of animal fibers has been used in conjunction with other lines of evidence, providing useful taxonomic information to reconstruct scenarios that account for the strategies implemented by hunter-gatherers and producers, in view of the use of animal resources. Here, the advance made in the study of cortical cells is offered as a complement to results obtained from qualitative and quantitative variables such as thickness, medulla, fiber type and color. The information gained is used to evaluate the relevance in the search of interspecific indicators. The analysis was performed on samples corresponding to level 4 from Cueva Salamanca 1 (7500 ± 60 BP [Beta 178223] (Pintar 2004 and level 4 from Quebrada Seca 3 (Cal. 3684 to 4226 1s

  8. Efeito da forma de processamento e do tratamento da fibra de curauá nas propriedades de compósitos com poliamida-6 Effect of the processing method and curauá fiber treatment on the properties of polyamide-6 composites

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Paulo A. Santos

    2009-01-01

    Full Text Available O interesse pela utilização de fibras vegetais como reforço para polímeros tem aumentado recentemente devido às suas vantagens ambientais e tecnológicas. Este trabalho avaliou o uso de fibras de Curauá para substituir a fibra de vidro em compósitos de poliamida-6. Teores de fibra de 0, 20, 30 ou 40 wt% e comprimento de 0,1 ou 10 mm foram analisados. Parte das fibras foi tratada com plasma de N2 ou lavados com solução de NaOH, para melhorar a adesão fibra/matriz. Compósitos com 20 wt% de fibra curta ou longa, sem ou com pré-tratamento, foram preparados em misturador interno e em duas extrusoras dupla-rosca, co-rotantes, interpenetrantes. Corpos de prova destas amostras moldados por injeção foram submetidos a testes de propriedades mecânicas (tração, flexão e impacto e térmicas (HDT. Observou-se que para as amostras com fibras sem tratamento processadas em extrusora, a não-secagem das matérias-primas melhorou a adesão interfacial fibra/matriz e que as propriedades mecânicas destes compósitos são melhores que a da PA-6 sem reforço, mas ainda não superam a PA-6 reforçada com fibra de vidro. Entretanto, sua menor densidade, sua resistência ao impacto, temperatura de deflexão térmica e contração de moldagem, comparáveis às da PA-6 reforçada com fibra de vidro, podem viabilizar a substituição desta em aplicações específicas. Este foi o primeiro trabalho a estudar o uso de fibra de curauá como reforço de um termoplástico de engenharia como a poliamida-6.The interest for the use of vegetal fibers as polymer reinforcement has recently increased because of their unique environmental and technological advantages. This work evaluated the use of Curauá fibers in polyamide-6 composites, aiming at glass fiber replacement. Fiber contents of 0, 20, 30 and 40 wt% and fiber lengths of 0.1 or 10 mm were analyzed. Part of short fibers were treated with N2 plasma, or washed with NaOH solution, to improve their adhesion to

  9. Influência da adição de fibras de aço na tensão de aderência de barras de aço retilíneas

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    D. L. Araújo

    Full Text Available A aderência entre a barra de aço e o concreto permite que haja a compatibilização entre os dois materiais, validando o uso do concreto armado como material de construção. Quanto melhor a aderência, menores são as aberturas das fissuras e mais protegida fica a armadura. Assim, busca-se nessa pesquisa investigar a influência das fibras de aço na aderência aço-concreto. Para tanto, foram ensaiados trinta e três corpos de prova, com dimensões de 200 mm x 300 mm x 150 mm, dos quais foi arrancada uma barra de aço neles concretada. As variáveis analisadas foram o diâmetro da barra (10 mm, 12,5 mm, 16 mm e 20 mm, o comprimento aderente (cinco e dez vezes o diâmetro da barra e o volume de fibras de aço adicionadas ao concreto (1% e 2%. Foram utilizadas fibras de aço com ganchos nas extremidades, comprimento de 35 mm e relação de aspecto igual a 65. Dos ensaios de arrancamento foi determinada a forma e a força de ruptura em cada um dos modelos. Adicionalmente, foram feitas simulações computacionais dos ensaios realizados com barra de 10 mm de diâmetro. Tanto os resultados dos ensaios experimentais quanto da modelagem mostraram que as fibras estudadas exercem pequena influência na tensão de aderência entre a barra e o concreto. Por outro lado, quando a ruptura da aderência se dá pelo fendilhamento do cobrimento de concreto, a influência das fibras é significativa.

  10. Degradabilidad in situ de la materia seca, proteína y fibra del forraje de morera (morus alba

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Carlos Boschini

    2001-01-01

    Full Text Available Con el propósito de conocer la degradabilidad ruminal de la materia seca, de la proteína cruda, de la fibra neutro detergente y de sus fracciones contenidas en rebrotes de morera de 56, 84 y 112 días. Se determinó la degradación en hojas, tallos y la planta entera. La degradabilidad potencial en los tres componentes estudiados fue disminuyendo conforme aumentó la edad del rebrote. La fracción soluble en la materia seca varió de 29 a 25% en la hoja y de 27 a 19% en el tallo al aumentar la edad de 56 a 112 días. La fracción degradable en la hoja se mantuvo constante en las tres edades (61-63% con tasas de degradación ruminal de 14, 10 y 9%/h a 56, 84 y 112 días. En el tallo la fracción degradable disminuyó de 42 a 30% entre 56 y 112 días con velocidades de degradación de 8,4, 6,7 y 5,3%/h al aumentar la edad. La proteína cruda soluble disminuyó de 41 a 33% en la planta entera, conforme aumentó la edad, y la fracción degradable permaneció constante en 49-51%. La tasa de degradación fue superior a 9,4%/h. La fibra neutro detergente presentó una fracción degradable de 71%, 62% y 43% a 56, 84 y 112 días respectivamente, con tasas de degradación de 13, 10 y 9%/h en el mismo orden. La degradación de la fibra neutro detergente se inició en el rumen con un tiempo de rezago de 1,5 a 3,2 horas

  11. Is pruritus an indicator of aquaporin-positive neuromyelitis optica?

    Science.gov (United States)

    Netravathi, Manjunath; Saini, Jitender; Mahadevan, Anita; Hari-Krishna, Bollampalli; Yadav, Ravi; Pal, Pramod Kumar; Satishchandra, Parthasarathy

    2017-05-01

    Recently, pruritus has been recognised as an important association with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSD). To determine the clinical and radiological characteristics of patients with NMOSD and pruritus. Among 57 consecutive patients with NMOSD, 15 (26.3% women) reported pruritus. All had aquaporin-4 (AQP4) antibodies. The mean age was 34.5 ± 9.1 years, age at onset was 31.3 ± 11.0 years and the duration of illness was 3.9 ± 3.1 years. Pruritus preceded the neurological disturbances in all the patients. Predominant patients experienced pruritus in the cervical dermatome (66.7%) followed by cervicothoracic region (13.3%), trigeminal nerve (13.3%) and lumbar region (6.7%). Lesions extending from cervicomedullary junction up to the thoracic segment was the most common site of affection (40%) followed by cervicothoracic (26.7%), cervicomedullary junction to cervical cord (13.3%), cervical cord (6.7%) and thoracic segment (6.7%). This report is one of the largest series reporting the close association of pruritus with onset of neurological symptoms in NMOSD. It highlights the importance of recognising this rare symptom which may help in making a correct diagnosis in a patient with suspected demyelinating disorder. In a patient with NMOSD, early treatment with immunomodulation during pruritus may prevent or minimise occurrence of neurological dysfunction.

  12. Studio dei fattori che influenzano la digeribilità della fibra nella bovina da latte: approcci dinamici

    OpenAIRE

    Bonfante, Elena

    2017-01-01

    I ruminanti sono altamente specializzati nella digestione della fibra. In condizioni di ottima funzionalità digestiva, sono le particelle di foraggio ad essere trattenute per lungo tempo nel rumine dove possono essere degradate dai batteri cellulosolitici. Nonostante queste conoscenze, la stima della degradabilità ruminale delle porzioni potenzialmente degradabili delle fibre è stata notevolmente sottostimata da taluni modelli dinamici di razionamento. Studi più recenti realizzati da Kriz...

  13. Qualitative and quantitative autoradiographic investigations on DNA-repair in the pars optica retinae of the rabbit

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Kellner, G.; Reindl, E.; Pichler, L.; Hofer, H.

    1974-01-01

    In vitro and in vivo investigations into the incorporation of 3 H-thymidine into the nuclei of pars optica retinae of rabbits after β-irradiation with 60 krad were performed. The results of the in vitro and in vivo experiments are comparable with the in vitro data showing smaller statistical deviations. The rate comparable with the in vitro data showing smaller statistical deviations. The rate of incorporation of 3 H-thymidine into the nuclei of Ggl. opticum and Ggl. retinae is about the same, but it is significantly lower in the nuclei of photoreceptor cells by one order of magnitude. The in vitro experiment demonstrates that ganglion cells are capable of DNA repair even after circulation has been stopped for 15 or more minutes. (author)

  14. Contribution of spinal cord biopsy to diagnosis of aquaporin-4 antibody positive neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Ringelstein, M; Metz, I; Ruprecht, K; Koch, A; Rappold, J; Ingwersen, J; Mathys, C; Jarius, S; Brück, W; Hartung, H-P; Paul, F; Aktas, O

    2014-06-01

    Longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis is characteristic but not pathognomonic for neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSDs) and may mimic local tumors. In this retrospective study based on a cohort of 175 NMOSD patients we identified seven patients who initially presented with a longitudinally extensive spinal cord lesion and underwent spinal cord biopsy due to magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-suspected malignancies. Remarkably, routine neuropathology was inconclusive and did not guide the diagnostic process to anti-aquaporin-4 (AQP4)-seropositive NMOSD. Serious postoperative complications occurred in 5/7 patients and persisted during follow-up in 2/7 patients (29%). Considering these sequelae, AQP4-antibody testing should be mandatory in patients with inconclusive longitudinally extensive spinal cord lesions prior to biopsy. © The Author(s) 2013.

  15. Presentation of Neuromyelitis Optica with Recurrent Severe Myelitis and Acute Respiratory Failure in an Old Woman

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Saeed Razmeh

    2017-06-01

    Full Text Available Neuromyelitis Optica (NMO is a rare disease of the central nervous system that causes optic nerve and spinal cord involvement. The our patient first developed acute paraplegia that was treated with intravenous methylprednisolone with diagnosis of acute thoracic myelitis according to magnetic resonance imaging (MRI finding , concurrently with tapering of oral prednisolone, again affected by quadriplegia and respiratory failure. She was seropositivity for NMO-IgG that was negative in first admission and MRI of spine shows hyperintense lesion in whole cervical and upper thoracic MRI. With considering the findings, NMO was diagnosed and the plasmapheresis starts for her. We report a case of this syndrome because it can increase the physician’s awareness of the unusual manifestations of this syndrome.

  16. Estudo dos efeitos da acetilação em fibras de sisal Study of the effects of acetylation treatments on sisal fiber

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Fernanda F. M. Lopes

    2010-07-01

    Full Text Available O emprego de fibras vegetais na confecção de compósitos tem grande viabilidade, no que diz respeito ao uso de materiais oriundos de fontes renováveis, à biodegradabilidade e aos benefícios socioeconômicos gerados na produção de matéria-prima vegetal. As fibras de sisal são altamente higroscópicas e esta característica se apresenta como um dos principais problemas na produção de compósitos induzindo a variações dimensionais sob a influência da umidade, deposição dos produtos da matriz em seus poros e a degradação. Os tratamentos de acetilação nas fibras de sisal foram aplicados em diferentes temperaturas e tempos reacionais, e a eficiência desses tratamentos, considerando-se a redução da hidrofilicidade e a manutenção do desempenho mecânico das fibras, foi avaliada pela capacidade de absorção de água por imersão, ensaios de resistência mecânica e por espectroscopia de infravermelho. Fibras acetiladas apresentaram reduções de peso por absorção de até 50% quando comparadas com as não tratadas. Os tratamentos por 3 h apresentaram as maiores perdas na resistência mecânica e a 120 °C por 1h indicaram as melhores características físico-mecânicas, além de incremento satisfatório de grupos apolares com o tratamento.The use of vegetable fibers in composites is highly viable regarding about the use of materials from renewable sources, the biodegradability and the socioeconomic advantages in the production of raw vegetable. The sisal fibers are highly hygroscopic and this is a main problem in the production of composites, inducing dimensional changes under moisture influence, deposition of the matrix products and degradation. The treatment of the acetylation was applied at different temperatures and reaction times, and the efficiency of treatments, considering the reduction of the hydrophilicity and maintenance of the mechanical properties, was evaluated by water sorption, mechanical properties and the

  17. Carga limite para juntas mecânicas em laminados de fibra de carbono

    OpenAIRE

    Arthur Chaves de Mas Santacreu

    1989-01-01

    Neste trabalho são testadas várias juntas parafusadas com laminados de fibra de carbono. São investigadas as influências dos parâmetros geométricos e dos parâmetros de constituição do laminado no comportamento da curva carga versus deformação do furo carregado. Paralelamente é desenvolvido um modelo de elementos finitos linear elástico para calcular a deformação do furo carregado a partir das propriedades mecânicas do material e da geometria da junta. É proposto um critério de previsão de car...

  18. Alkali-resistant glass fiber reinforced high strength concrete in simulated aggressive environment; Hormigón de altas resistencia reforzado con fibras de vidrio resistentes a alcalis en ambientes agresivos simulados.

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Kwan, W.H.; Cheah, C.B.; Ramli, M.; Chang, K.Y.

    2018-04-01

    The durability of the alkali-resistant (AR) glass fiber reinforced concrete (GFRC) in three simulated aggresive environments, namely tropical climate, cyclic air and seawater and seawater immersion was investigated. Durability examinations include chloride diffusion, gas permeability, X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy examination (SEM). The fiber content is in the range of 0.6 % to 2.4 %. Results reveal that the specimen containing highest AR glass fiber content suffered severe strength loss in seawater environment and relatively milder strength loss under cyclic conditions. The permeability property was found to be more inferior with the increase in the fiber content of the concrete. This suggests that the AR glass fiber is not suitable for use as the fiber reinforcement in concrete is exposed to seawater. However, in both the tropical climate and cyclic wetting and drying, the incorporation of AR glass fiber prevents a drastic increase in permeability. [Spanish] Este trabajo se centra en el estudio de la durabilidad de hormigón reforzado con fibra de vidrio resistente a álcalis (CRFVRA) en tres ambientes agresivos simulados como son, condiciones de clima tropical, ciclos de aire y agua de mar e inmersión marina. Los tests de durabilidad incluyeron la difusión de cloruros, permeabilidad de gas, difracción de rayos X (XRD) y evaluacion por microscopía electrónica de barrido (SEM). Los contenidos de fibra evaluados estuvieron en el rango desde 0.6% hasta 2.4%. Los resultados revelan que la muestra que contiene el mayor porcentaje de fibra sufre una severa pérdida de resistencia en condiciones de agua de mar, y una menor disminución de resistencia bajo condiciones cíclicas. Su permeabilidad disminuyó al incrementar el contenido de fibras en el hormigón. Lo anterior sugiere que el refuerzo con fibra resistente a alcalinos no es adecuado para su uso en hormigón en ambiente de agua de mar. Sin embargo, bajo condiciones de clima

  19. Challenges and opportunities in designing clinical trials for neuromyelitis optica

    Science.gov (United States)

    Barron, Gerard; Behne, Jacinta M.; Bennett, Jeffery L.; Chin, Peter S.; Cree, Bruce A.C.; de Seze, Jerome; Flor, Armando; Fujihara, Kazuo; Greenberg, Benjamin; Higashi, Sayumi; Holt, William; Khan, Omar; Knappertz, Volker; Levy, Michael; Melia, Angela T.; Palace, Jacqueline; Smith, Terry J.; Sormani, Maria Pia; Van Herle, Katja; VanMeter, Susan; Villoslada, Pablo; Walton, Marc K.; Wasiewski, Warren; Wingerchuk, Dean M.; Yeaman, Michael R.

    2015-01-01

    Current management of neuromyelitis optica (NMO) is noncurative and only partially effective. Immunosuppressive or immunomodulatory agents are the mainstays of maintenance treatment. Safer, better-tolerated, and proven effective treatments are needed. The perceived rarity of NMO has impeded clinical trials for this disease. However, a diagnostic biomarker and recognition of a wider spectrum of NMO presentations has expanded the patient population from which study candidates might be recruited. Emerging insights into the pathogenesis of NMO have provided rationale for exploring new therapeutic targets. Academic, pharmaceutical, and regulatory communities are increasingly interested in meeting the unmet needs of patients with NMO. Clinical trials powered to yield unambiguous outcomes and designed to facilitate rapid evaluation of an expanding pipeline of experimental agents are needed. NMO-related disability occurs incrementally as a result of attacks; thus, limiting attack frequency and severity are critical treatment goals. Yet, the severity of NMO and perception that currently available agents are effective pose challenges to study design. We propose strategies for NMO clinical trials to evaluate agents targeting recovery from acute attacks and prevention of relapses, the 2 primary goals of NMO treatment. Aligning the interests of all stakeholders is an essential step to this end. PMID:25841026

  20. Estudio para la optimización de la composición de un HACFRA (hormigón autocompactante reforzado con fibras de acero estructural

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Orbe, A.

    2015-03-01

    Full Text Available The interest of HACFRA (self compacting concrete reinforced with steel fibers, is the combination of the residual strength increase and cracking decrease compared to plain concrete by the introduction of steel fibers in the mass with the advantages of the self-compacting. The paper presents an analysis of the influence of different components of the HACRFA and provides their selection, refered to the granular skeleton and to different steel fiber types and amount, in order to obtain an optimization of its features and structural behavior.El interés de un HACFRA (Hormigón autocompactante reforzado con fibras de acero, radica en la combinación del incremento de capacidad resistente con respecto al hormigón y disminución de la fisuración, aportada por la introducción de fibras de acero, con las ventajas de la puesta en obra que supone la autocompactación. El artículo analiza la influencia de los diferentes componentes que integran el HACRFA, proponiendo una selección de los mismos, referidos tanto al esqueleto granular como a los diferentes tipos y densidades de fibras de acero, en base a la obtención de sus características y de un comportamiento estructural optimizado.

  1. Pruritus may be a common symptom related to neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders.

    Science.gov (United States)

    He, Zhiyong; Ren, Ming; Wang, Xiaofeng; Guo, Qifeng; Qi, Xiaokun

    2017-04-01

    To evaluate pruritus in patients with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSD) and to characterize the relationship between pruritus and lesions of NMOSD. 61 patients with NMOSD were included in the study and their medical records were reviewed for pruritus, neurological symptoms and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) images. We focused on the patients' history of pruritus, especially the severity, duration, region, and the relationship of pruritus with other symptoms of NMOSD. Of the 61 patients with NMOSD, 59 had longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis (LETM). 38 of these patients (64.4%) reported pruritus during the course of their illness, with 16 patients reporting pruritus as the initial symptoms followed by limb weakness. In 35 of 38 patients (92.1%), pruritus was located within the dermatomes innervated by the spinal nerves from the involved spinal cord. Our results show that pruritus is a common symptom of NMOSD and relates to the lesions in the spinal cord. Pruritus may indicate a new episode of myelitis in patients with NMOSD. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  2. Use of Advanced Magnetic Resonance Imaging Techniques in Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder

    Science.gov (United States)

    Kremer, Stephane; Renard, Felix; Achard, Sophie; Lana-Peixoto, Marco A.; Palace, Jacqueline; Asgari, Nasrin; Klawiter, Eric C.; Tenembaum, Silvia N.; Banwell, Brenda; Greenberg, Benjamin M.; Bennett, Jeffrey L.; Levy, Michael; Villoslada, Pablo; Saiz, Albert; Fujihara, Kazuo; Chan, Koon Ho; Schippling, Sven; Paul, Friedemann; Kim, Ho Jin; de Seze, Jerome; Wuerfel, Jens T.

    2016-01-01

    Brain parenchymal lesions are frequently observed on conventional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans of patients with neuromyelitis optica (NMO) spectrum disorder, but the specific morphological and temporal patterns distinguishing them unequivocally from lesions caused by other disorders have not been identified. This literature review summarizes the literature on advanced quantitative imaging measures reported for patients with NMO spectrum disorder, including proton MR spectroscopy, diffusion tensor imaging, magnetization transfer imaging, quantitative MR volumetry, and ultrahigh-field strength MRI. It was undertaken to consider the advanced MRI techniques used for patients with NMO by different specialists in the field. Although quantitative measures such as proton MR spectroscopy or magnetization transfer imaging have not reproducibly revealed diffuse brain injury, preliminary data from diffusion-weighted imaging and brain tissue volumetry indicate greater white matter than gray matter degradation. These findings could be confirmed by ultrahigh-field MRI. The use of nonconventional MRI techniques may further our understanding of the pathogenic processes in NMO spectrum disorders and may help us identify the distinct radiographic features corresponding to specific phenotypic manifestations of this disease. PMID:26010909

  3. Hardware reconfigurable para la reconstrucción de videos transmitidos por un mazo de fibras incoherente

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Pablo Montejo Valdés

    2013-04-01

    Full Text Available La transmisión de imágenes mediante mazos de fibras ópticas no coherentes (IOFB necesita información sobre la posición de cada fibra para ser usada en la reconstrucción de la imagen original. Otro importante requerimiento es poseer suficiente memoria para almacenar la imagen durante su reconstrucción y durante su retransmisión. La mayoría de las veces estos aspectos obligan el uso de memoria externa si se utilizan FPGAs en el sistema. Este trabajo presenta una solución a este problema. Se propone un sistema en un chip capaz de almacenar la información necesaria y las imágenes sobre las que se está trabajando usando un FPGA de bajo costo. Se presentan dos soluciones y se implementa la que resulta más ventajosa. Los resultados son discutidos. El uso de este método hace posible transmitir  video usando IOFB y reconstruir las imágenes originales casi en tiempo real, debido a su baja latencia. Esta propuesta podría utilizarse en sistemas autónomos sacando ventaja de su nivel de compactación, fiabilidad y bajo costo.

  4. Cognitive impairment differs between neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder and multiple sclerosis.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Kim, Su-Hyun; Kwak, Kichang; Jeong, In Hye; Hyun, Jae-Won; Jo, Hyo-Jin; Joung, AeRan; Yu, Eun-Seung; Kim, Ji-Hee; Lee, Sang Hyun; Yun, Sooin; Joo, Jungnam; Lee, Dong-Kyun; Lee, Jong-Min; Kim, Ho Jin

    2016-12-01

    To compare the frequency and pattern of cognitive impairment (CI) between patients with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) and multiple sclerosis (MS). A total of 82 NMOSD patients, 58 MS patients, and 45 healthy controls (HCs) underwent a neuropsychological assessment. CI was observed in 29% of NMOSD and 50% of MS patients (p < 0.001); CI was considered present if a patient scored lower than the fifth percentile compared with HCs in at least three domains. A lower frequency of CI was consistently found when CI was indicated by at least two failed tests (p < 0.001). MS patients performed worse than did NMOSD patients on verbal learning and verbal and visual memory tests. Levels of education and depression and the interval from disease onset to treatment were associated with a negative influence on cognition in patients with NMOSD. CI in patients with NMOSD may be not as common as in patients with MS. MS patients exhibited severe impairment, particularly on learning and memory tests, compared with NMOSD patients. Differential prevalence and patterns of CI between NMOSD and MS patients suggest that the two diseases have different mechanisms of brain injury. © The Author(s), 2016.

  5. The Contribution of Optical Coherence Tomography in Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorders

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Javier Mateo

    2017-09-01

    Full Text Available Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSD comprises a group of central nervous system disorders of inflammatory autoimmune origin that mainly affect the optic nerves and the spinal cord and can cause severe visual and general disability. The clinical signs are similar to those of multiple sclerosis (MS, with the result that it is often difficult to differentiate between the two, thus leading to misdiagnosis. As the treatment and prognosis of NMOSD and MS are different, it is important to make an accurate and early diagnosis of NMOSD. Optical coherence tomography (OCT is a non-invasive technique that enables a quantitative study of the changes that the optic nerve and the macula undergo in several neurodegenerative diseases. Many studies have shown that some of these changes, such as retinal nerve fiber layer thinning or microcystic macular edema, can be related to alterations in the brain due to neurodegenerative disorders. The purpose of this mini-review is to show how OCT can be useful for the diagnosis of NMOSD and follow-up of affected patients, as well as for the differential diagnosis with MS.

  6. Análise por imagem digital dos níveis de cinza de fibras de reforço associadas a uma resina composta = Digital image analysis of the gray levels of reinforcement fibers associated with composite resin

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Mussatto, Cristiane Maria Boniatti

    2005-01-01

    Full Text Available Mensurar a densidade óptica das fibras de reforço Connect, Ribbond e Interlig incluídas em resina composta Filtek Z250, no sistema DenOptix. Materiais e método: Foram confeccionados 10 blocos de resina composta associadas a cada tipo de fibra e dois blocos de resina Z250 pura (controle não-reforçado, totalizando 32 corpos-de-prova. Foram obtidas 3 radiografias digitais de cada corpo-de-prova, sobre uma placa óptica do sistema DenOptix, para cada posição: (A face lateral da fibra exposta aos raios -X; (B face tramada da fibra exposta aos raios-X. Em cada uma foram realizadas 3 leituras ópticas dos níveis de cinza em cada corpo-de-prova, em pontos aleatórios, sendo obtida uma média. Os valores médios dos níveis de cinza foram analisados pelo teste t de Student, ANOVA e teste de Tukey, ao nível de significância de 1%. Resultados e conclusões: Com relação à associação da resina + fibra na posição (A, observou-se a maior média de níveis de cinza para a resina pura, seguido por resina + Connect, resina + Interlig (que não diferiram entre si, e resina + Ribbond. Com relação à associação da resina + fibra na posição (B, observou-se que a resina pura apresentou maior média, seguida por resina + Connect, resina + Interlig e resina + Ribbond, sendo que as duas últimas não foram diferentes entre si. Os resultados sugerem que os níveis de cinza variaram em função do tipo de fibra de reforço e da posição na radiografia

  7. Behavior of a portable solar dryer for pineapple fiber Comportamento de um secador solar para fibras de abacaxi

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Róger Moya

    2012-12-01

    Full Text Available In Costa Rica, there has been a growing interest to use pineapple fiber from plant, for which current processes need to be improved or new processes need to be developed, with emphasis on drying methods. This work presents the design and evaluation of the behavior of a prototype portable solar dryer in four sites of Costa Rica. The design describes the main parts of the dryer, as well as how they were constructed. The behavior was evaluated according to temperature and relative humidity inside e outside the chamber, and the influence of direct and indirect solar radiation. In order to achieve improved dryer efficiency, a dehumidifier was used to control relative humidity, and a heating system was implemented during the hours of low temperature, low solar radiation and high relative humidity. Based on drying time, final moisture content of fibers of pineapple leaves from plant, and the varying hours when fibers were put to dry, the evaluation of the dryer revealed that the best fiber-drying interval is from 6h00 to 14h00, and after that, it is convenient to inject hot air and use a dehumidifier in the dryer in order to increase its efficiency.Na Costa Rica, o interesse pelo uso da fibra proveniente da folha de abacaxizeiro. Tem almentado e essa atividade precisa de melhoramento ou implementação de novos processos para alcançar maior eficiência, principalmente na secagem da fibra. O presente trabalho apresenta o design e comportamento de uma protótipo portátil de secadora solar em 4 sites geográficos da Costa Rica. Estão descritas as principais partes do secador, bem como a metodologia de construção. O comportamento foi avaliado de acordo com a temperatura e umidade relativa interna e externa da câmara e a influencia da radiação direta e indireta. Com a finalidade de melhorar a eficiência da secadora, foi usado um desumidificador para controlar a umidade relativa e ainda um sistema de aquecimento durante as horas de baixa temperatura

  8. Excreción de derivados de purinas en función de la relación fibra/proteína en la dieta de Alpacas (Vicugna pacos)

    OpenAIRE

    Rúa M, Viviana; Olazábal L, Juan; San Martín H, Felipe

    2017-01-01

    El objetivo del presente estudio fue evaluar la relación de la fibra detergente neutro/proteína cruda sobre la excreción urinaria de derivados de purinas (DP) en alpacas. Eldiseño experimental fue un cuadrado latino 3x3. Se utilizaron tres alpacas Huacaya machos de 2.5 años de edad, confinados en corrales individuales. El alimento fue suministrado una vez al día y con agua ad libitum. Se trabajó con tres tratamientos a base de heno de avena, donde las relaciones de fibra/proteína se obtuviero...

  9. Fibras de vidro a base de Li20 - Zr02 - BaO - Si02 recobertas com Nb205 para utilização em micro-extração em fase sólida

    OpenAIRE

    Silveira, Cristian Berto da

    2005-01-01

    Tese (doutorado) - Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Centro de Ciências Físicas e Matemáticas. Programa de Pós-graduação em Química Neste trabalho são descritas as metodologias para obtenção e modificações da superfície de fibras de vidro de composição Li2O-ZrO2-BaO-SiO2. Apresenta-se também as aplicações destas fibras na determinação, por SPME, de fenol e de uma mistura de álcoois. Para obtenção das fibras de vidro construiu-se um equipamento, o qual baseia-se na técnica de estiram...

  10. Potencialidades da análise de fluxo de materiais no processo produtivo de fibras ópticas poliméricas

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Julian Torres de Miranda Pinto

    2014-06-01

    Full Text Available O crescente uso de fibras ópticas em telecomunicação demanda também inúmeras pesquisas relacionadas aos processos produtivos deste meio de comunicação. Neste contexto, o presente artigo apresenta os sistemas atuais de produção de fibras ópticas poliméricas e uma análise comparativa das principais pesquisas voltadas para a melhoria da qualidade ou para a redução dos custos de produção. A metodologia Análise do Fluxo de Materiais (MFA é aplicada, resultando em modelos conceituais qualitativos que permitem uma caracterização dos processos atuais e fácil adaptação para incorporar as modificações e novas tecnologias. Adicionalmente, é feita uma comparação dos fatores ambientais das pesquisas abordadas neste artigo. Como conclusão, fica ressaltada a importância de estudos de campo para a construção de MFA com dados quantitativos, permitindo explorar todo o potencial da metodologia.

  11. Caracterización de tintas de titanio dopadas con óxidos metálicos

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Gil, A.

    2009-02-01

    >, lo que degrada sus propiedades ópticas, mientras que bajas temperaturas de calcinación, conducen a una pobre estabilidad mecánica de las estructuras. Para aumentar la estabilidad mecánica evitando a la vez el incremento del tamaño de grano tras la calcinación, se doparon las tintas con compuestos de Niobio y Zinc. Mediante difracción de rayos X de alta resolución se estudió la influencia del dopante en el crecimiento de grano del TiO2 a distintas temperaturas de calcinación para así evaluar las posibilidad de utilizar dichas tintas dopadas para aplicaciones fotónicas. Los resultados obtenidos indican que la adición de dopantes basados en óxidos metálicos tiene un significativo efecto en la temperatura de conversión de anatasa a rutilo y deprimen el crecimiento de grano.

  12. Autoimmune AQP4 channelopathies and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Hinson, Shannon R; Lennon, Vanda A; Pittock, Sean J

    2016-01-01

    Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) spectrum disorders (SD) represent an evolving group of central nervous system (CNS)-inflammatory autoimmune demyelinating diseases unified by a pathogenic autoantibody specific for the aquaporin-4 (AQP4) water channel. It was historically misdiagnosed as multiple sclerosis (MS), which lacks a distinguishing biomarker. The discovery of AQP4-IgG moved the focus of CNS demyelinating disease research from emphasis on the oligodendrocyte and myelin to the astrocyte. NMO is recognized today as a relapsing disease, extending beyond the optic nerves and spinal cord to include brain (especially in children) and skeletal muscle. Brain magnetic resonance imaging abnormalities, identifiable in 60% of patients at the second attack, are consistent with MS in 10% of cases. NMOSD-typical lesions (another 10%) occur in AQP4-enriched regions: circumventricular organs (causing intractable nausea and vomiting) and the diencephalon (causing sleep disorders, endocrinopathies, and syndrome of inappropriate antidiuresis). Advances in understanding the immunobiology of AQP4 autoimmunity have necessitated continuing revision of NMOSD clinical diagnostic criteria. Assays that selectively detect pathogenic AQP4-IgG targeting extracellular epitopes of AQP4 are promising prognostically. When referring to AQP4 autoimmunity, we suggest substituting the term "autoimmune aquaporin-4 channelopathy" for the term "NMO spectrum disorders." Randomized clinical trials are currently assessing the efficacy and safety of newer immunotherapies. Increasing therapeutic options based on understanding the molecular pathogenesis is anticipated to improve the outcome for patients with AQP4 channelopathy. © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  13. Optimización del proceso de secado en base a criterios de calidad. Aplicación al diseño de un alimento cárnico enriquecido en fibra alimentaria

    OpenAIRE

    Eim Iznardo, Valeria Soledad

    2012-01-01

    En el diseño de embutidos crudos curados enriquecidos en fibra alimentaria, es esencial la obtención de ingredientes funcionales de elevada calidad, que puedan ser incorporados en la formulación del embutido generando las menores modificaciones de las características físico-químicas y sensoriales del alimento. El principal objetivo de este trabajo consistió en optimizar la formulación de un embutido crudo curado enriquecido en un concentrado de fibra alimentaria de zanahoria. La formulació...

  14. Estudo da tenacidade à fratura por meio do método do trabalho essencial de fratura (EWF) da blenda PBT/ABS, reforçada com fibra de vidro

    OpenAIRE

    Carlos do Amaral Razzino

    2008-01-01

    O terpolímero acrilonitrila-butadieno-estireno (ABS) com alto teor de borracha tem sido utilizado para tenacificar PBT. Como resultados, são obtidas blendas de PBT/ABS super tenazes sob impacto Izod entalhado. No entanto, ocorre uma redução significativa no módulo elástico. O desenvolvimento de um balanço de rigidez-tenacidade em blendas de PBT/ABS pode ser alcançado pela adição de fibras curtas de vidro. O desempenho dos compósitos é fortemente dependente da interface matriz-fibra e conseque...

  15. Correlação entre os teores de líber e fibras em caules de crotalária e malva Correlation between bast and fiber content in sunn hemp and malva stalks

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Anísio Azzini

    1986-01-01

    Full Text Available No presente estudo, estimou-se a correlação entre os teores de líber (casca e fibras em caules de crotalária (Crotalaria juncea L. e malva (Urena lobata L., com o objetivo de estabelecer um procedimento simples e rápido de análise de fibra. Os resultados obtidos mostraram que os teores de líber e fibra estão relacionados entre si, com alto nível de significância (p > 0,99 para as correlações entre essas duas características tecnológicas. Os coeficientes de correlação observados, de 0,84 e 0,79, respectivamente, para crotalária e malva, permitem a avaliação indireta do teor de fibra liberiana através do teor de líber, estabelecendo um procedimento simples e rápido de análise de fibra, a ser utilizado especificamente em programas de melhoramento genético.In this paper it was estimated the correlation between the bast and fiber contents in suns hemp (Crotalaria juncea L. and malva (Urena lobata L. stalks. The results showed that fiber contents are related with a high level of signification (p > 0.99 for the correlation between these two technological characteristics. The correlation coefficients observed were of 0.84 and 0.79, respectively to sunn hemp and malva. These high levels of correlation showed that the fiber content may be evaluated indirectly through the bast content, establishing a simple and rapid procedure for fiber determination of both species.

  16. Caracterização térmica e morfológica de fibras contínuas de basalto Thermal and morphological characterization of basalt continuous fibers

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    M. A. Schiavon

    2007-06-01

    Full Text Available Os basaltos são rochas vulcânicas abundantes provenientes de extensos derrames de lava. A tecnologia de fiação contínua produz filamentos de basalto na forma de fios micrométricos amorfos. Neste trabalho são apresentados resultados da caracterização térmica e morfológica de fibras longas de basalto, de diâmetro micrométrico. Estas fibras apresentaram excelente estabilidade térmica, resultando em alterações de massa menor que 1% sob aquecimento até a temperatura de 1000 ºC, em atmosfera inerte ou oxidante. Por outro lado, a ~ 800 ºC ocorreu a cristalização parcial das fibras de basalto, com a formação de fases cristalinas de silicatos e alumino-silicatos, como a anortita, da classe dos plagioclásios. A morfologia das fibras, aquecidas a 1000 ºC, foi alterada devido à fusão e cristalização das fases presentes.The basalts are abundant volcanic rocks formed from extensive wastes. The technology of continuous wiring produces basalt filaments in micrometric amorphous long fibers. In this work are presented results of the thermal and morphologic characterization of micrometric basalt fibers. These fibers showed excellent thermal stability, resulting in low weight change (less than 1 wt.% up to 1000 ºC, under heating in inert or oxidant atmosphere. On the other hand, partial crystallization of basalt fibers occurred at ~ 800 ºC, resulting in diffraction peaks in the X-ray patterns, characteristic of silicates and aluminosilicates as the anorthite from the plagioclase class. The morphology of fibers after heating at 1000 ºC was changed due to the fusion and crystallization of the present phases.

  17. PROCESSAMENTO DE CASCA E FIBRA DE COCO VERDE POR CARBONIZAÇÃO PARA AGREGAÇÃO DE VALOR / PROCESSING OF COCONUT SHELL AND FIBER FOR ADDING VALUE

    OpenAIRE

    LUIS A. B. CORTEZ; JUAN M. M. PEREZ; JOSÉ D. ROCHA; RODRIGO A. JORDAN; HENRY R. M. MESA

    2009-01-01

    Atualmente o Brasil é o maior produtor de coco verde, com uma área plantada equivalente a 57 mil hectares, onde a maior parte da parte da produção (66,5%) se concentra na região Nordeste. O descarte do coco depois do consumo da água representa um problema para os sistemas de coleta e tratamento de lixo, pela sua lenta degradação devido ao alto teor de fibras. Neste trabalho são mostrados os resultados da pirólise lenta da fibra e da casca do coco verde. Os experimentos foram conduzidos em um ...

  18. Estudo das propriedades de compósitos biodegradáveis de amido/glúten de milho/glicerol reforçados com fibras de sisal Study of properties of biodegradable composites of starch/gluten/glycerol reinforced with sisal fibers

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Elisângela Corradini

    2008-01-01

    Full Text Available Neste estudo, fibras de sisal foram utilizadas como reforço para a matriz constituída de amido, glúten de milho e glicerol. O teor de fibra em relação a matriz variou de 5 a 30%. O processamento da matriz e dos compósitos foi realizado em um reômetro de torque Haake à 130 °C, 50 rpm por 10 minutos. As misturas obtidas foram moldadas por compressão à quente. As propriedades mecânicas; termodinâmico-mecânico (DMTA e de absorção de água foram investigadas em função do teor de fibras na matriz de amido/glúten de milho/glicerol. O aumento do conteúdo de fibra provocou uma melhoria nas propriedades mecânicas dos compósitos com relação à matriz. O compósito reforçado com 30% de fibra de sisal apresentou aumento no módulo de elasticidade e tensão na ruptura de aproximadamente de 560 e 162%, respectivamente e diminuição nos valores de elongação na ruptura de 81%. Os resultados obtidos por DMTA mostraram aumento progressivo do módulo de armazenamento (E' e diminuição do módulo de amortecimento (tan d com o aumento do teor de fibra, confirmando o efeito de reforço das fibras de sisal na matriz de amido/glúten de milho/glicerol. A incorporação das fibras na matriz também provocou diminuição da absorção de umidade e no coeficiente de difusão de água. A análise da morfologia dos compósitos mostrou boa dispersão das fibras na matriz.Biocomposites using starch/gluten/glycerol as matrix and sisal fibers were produced by melt-mixing in an intensive batch mixer connected to a torque rheometer at 130 °C. The samples were compression molded and than characterized by water absorption and mechanical test. In tensile test, the increasing in the Young's modulus and ultimate tensile strenght were respectively of aproximately 560 and 162% in relation to matrix, whereas elongation at break decreased. The storage modulus increased with increasing fiber content whereas tan d curves decreased, confirming the reinforcing

  19. Comportamiento del hormigón con áridos siderúrgicos (EAF) reforzado con fibras

    OpenAIRE

    Fuente Alonso, José Antonio de la

    2016-01-01

    La investigación que recoge la presente Tesis Doctoral desarrolla un estudio experimental para obtener hormigones destinados a pavimentos y/o soleras utilizando como áridos los residuos generados en la fabricación de acero en hornos eléctricos de arco, escoria negra EAF, y reforzándolo con fibras metálicas o sintéticas. El objetivo principal es la elaboración de un hormigón siderúrgico, utilizando escoria negra de horno eléctrico de arco EAF como sustitución de los áridos naturales en un 7...

  20. Inclusão de fibra alimentar em pães isentos de glúten

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Andressa Luciane Ceccon Saueressig

    Full Text Available Resumo Foram desenvolvidas quatro formulações de pães, isentos de glúten e com a inclusão de fibra alimentar solúvel e insolúvel, avaliando suas propriedades físicas, composição química, aceitação e intenção de compra do consumidor. O padrão (1 teve a farinha de arroz, fécula de mandioca, ovo, leite em pó, óleo de girassol, sal, açúcar, fermento biológico seco e água como ingredientes. Nos demais, a fécula foi parcialmente substituída por inulina (2, farelo de arroz desengordurado e inulina (3, e farelo de arroz desengordurado (4. A cor do pão 2 diferiu apenas na casca, que ficou menos vermelha e amarela que o 1. A inclusão do farelo de arroz proporcionou coloração mais escura, vermelha e amarela à crosta e miolo dos pães 3 e 4. A perda de peso e rendimento variaram apenas em relação ao pão 2, que teve maior perda de peso e menor rendimento, provavelmente devido ao colapso da massa, que não foi capaz de manter a estrutura na fase de crescimento. O custo dos pães com inulina foi maior, pois este ingrediente é um reconhecido prebiótico, adquirido em estabelecimentos farmacêuticos; enquanto que o custo do pão apenas com farelo diminuiu, já que se trata de um subproduto industrial, obtido da extração do óleo de arroz. Na composição química, houve incremento nos teores de cinzas, proteínas e fibra alimentar, principalmente insolúvel, nos pães 3 e 4; enquanto que o pão 2 apresentou menor teor proteico e maior teor de fibra alimentar, principalmente solúvel. Nutricionalmente, admite-se incremento do valor nutricional em detrimento de carboidratos digeríveis e do valor calórico. Sensorialmente, os pães 3 e 4 tiveram menor aceitação nos atributos cor e sabor, mas não diferiram dos pães 1 e 2 nos atributos odor e textura, e na intenção de compra dos consumidores. Conclui-se que o consumo dos pães que tiveram substituição parcial da fécula é garantia de alimento com qualidade funcional

  1. Preparação de nanofibras de celulose a partir de fibras de curauá para desenvolvimento de nanocompósitos poliméricos com EVA

    OpenAIRE

    Ana Carolina Corrêa

    2010-01-01

    Este projeto de doutorado teve como objetivo a obtenção de nanofibras de celulose a partir de fibras de curauá e sua aplicação no desenvolvimento de nanocompósitos poliméricos com EVA (copolímero etileno-co-acetato de vinila). Inicialmente, foi realizado um estudo de extração das nanofibras frente às variações no pré-tratamento da fibra de curauá (mercerização com soluções com 5, 10, 15 e 17,5% de NaOH), tipo de ácido empregado na hidrólise (ácido sulfúrico (H2SO4), ácido clorídrico (HCl) e m...

  2. Seronegative Neuromyelitis Optica: A Case Report of a Hispanic Male

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Nabeel Badri

    2016-05-01

    Full Text Available Neuromyelitis optica (NMO is a rare disease, common in white females and rarely reported in Hispanic males. It is usually associated with recurrent demyelinating spectrum that is autoimmune in nature. The diagnosis is usually confirmed by antibody biomarkers; however, they can be negative and lead to more dilemma in diagnosis. Furthermore, the course of disease and prognosis are different in seronegative as compared to seropositive NMO. Treatment is similar in both subgroups with new approaches under investigation for seronegative NMO patients. We present an interesting case of a 37-year-old Hispanic male who presented with sudden onset of lower extremity weakness, numbness, blurry vision, and urinary retention. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI of the thoracic spine showed multiphasic demyelinating process involving the thoracic spinal cord. His brain MRI also revealed changes suggesting optic neuritis. The patient met the criteria for diagnosis of NMO by having optic neuritis and myelitis by imaging studies despite having negative aquaporin-4 antibodies (AQP4-Ab. His condition improved after plasma exchange. NMO can be difficult to distinguish from acute multiple sclerosis in the early stages of the disease. Having AQP4-Ab testing is important for diagnosis with imaging studies; however, negative antibody results cannot exclude the diagnosis, but rather group it in seronegative subtype. Ongoing studies and research suggest that seronegative NMO might have a different pathophysiology, manifestation, and prognosis.

  3. Complexity and wide range of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders: more than typical manifestations

    Science.gov (United States)

    Han, Jinming; Yang, Meng-ge; Zhu, Jie; Jin, Tao

    2017-01-01

    Neuromyelitis optica (NMO), considered to be mediated by autoantibodies, often cause severely disabling disorders of the central nervous system, and predominantly cause optic nerve damage and longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis. Remarkable progress has been made in deciphering NMO pathogenesis during the past decade. In 2015, the International Panel for NMO Diagnosis proposed the unifying term “NMO spectrum disorders” (NMOSD) and the updated NMOSD criteria reflects a wide range of disease and maintains reasonable specificity. Moreover, cumulative findings have indicated that NMOSD are frequently associated with multiple autoimmune diseases, thereby presenting complex clinical symptoms that make this disease more difficult to recognize. Notably, most neurologists do not heed these symptoms or comorbid conditions in patients with NMOSD. Whereas previous reviews have focused on pathogenesis, treatment, and prognosis in NMOSD, we summarize the present knowledge with particular emphasis on atypical manifestations and autoimmune comorbidities in patients with NMOSD. Furthermore, we emphasized the identification of these atypical characteristics to enable a broader and better understanding of NMOSD, and improve early accurate diagnosis and therapeutic decision making. PMID:29118581

  4. A simple method for non-linear analysis of steel fiber reinforced concrete = Um método simples para a análise não-linear de concreto reforçado com fibras de aço

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Leandro Vanalli

    2010-10-01

    Full Text Available This paper proposes a physical non-linear formulation to deal with steel fiber reinforced concrete by the finite element method. The proposed formulation allows the consideration of short or long fibers placed arbitrarily inside a continuum domain (matrix. The most important feature of the formulation is that no additional degree offreedom is introduced in the pre-existent finite element numerical system to consider any distribution or quantity of fiber inclusions. In other words, the size of the system of equations used to solve a non-reinforced medium is the same as the one used to solve thereinforced counterpart. Another important characteristic of the formulation is the reduced work required by the user to introduce reinforcements, avoiding "rebar" elements, node by node geometrical definitions or even complex mesh generation. Bounded connectionbetween long fibers and continuum is considered, for short fibers a simplified approach is proposed to consider splitting. Non-associative plasticity is adopted for the continuum and one dimensional plasticity is adopted to model fibers. Examples are presented in order to show the capabilities of the formulation.Este artigo apresenta uma formulação baseada no Método dos Elementos Finitos (MEF, para a análise física não-linear de estruturas de concreto reforçadas com fibras de aço. A formulação proposta permite a consideração de fibras curtas e longas inseridas num meio contínuo. A mais importante característica da formulação é que nenhum grau de liberdade adicional é introduzido no sistema de equações que modela oproblema, independente da quantidade e da forma de distribuição das fibras. Em outras palavras, o tamanho do sistema de equações para resolver o problema de reforço com fibras é o mesmo do problema sem reforço. Uma outra importante característica da formulação é o reduzido trabalho requerido para a inserção das fibras, evitando-se o uso de elementos rebar

  5. ESTUDO DA ESTABILIDADE TÉRMICA DE FIBRA QUERATINA (KF DE PENAS DE FRANGO PARA OBTENÇÃO DE CARBONO (CF

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Débora Damasceno Belarmino

    2012-07-01

    Full Text Available A fibra de queratina de penas de frango foi submetida à análise térmica (TG em sua forma natural e carbonizada, aumentando assim a expansão do reaproveitamento de materiais desperdiçados no Brasil. A partir das curvas obtidas por TG/DTG da pena natural (KF e tratadas (KFNaOH, SCFC e SCFD buscou-se um melhor ciclo de carbonização (pirólise para esse tipo de precursor. O trabalho também trata como um dos focos, o estudo comparativo do comportamento térmico desses materiais. Uma parte da KF foi tratada com hidróxido de sódio (NaOH, e observou-se pelo o resultado TG/DTG que a resistência térmica do material não foi influenciada. Outra parte de KF foi semicarbonizada (220°C sem controle do ambiente térmico e taxas de aquecimento e resfriamento, apresentando colorações diferentes, mais clara (SCFC e mais escura (SCFD. Foi constatado nas curvas de TG/DTG, que esse tratamento de carbonização não é ideal para a obtenção de carbono. Também foi verificado nas curvas de TG/DTG que na CF houve um aumento da estabilidade térmica comparada a todas as outras amostras. Essa pesquisa é uma inovação no que diz respeito à preparação e avaliação de fibras de penas de frango na obtenção de fibras sintetizadas, que atualmente são, em larga escala, derivados do petróleo, lembrando-se da diminuição das reservas de petróleo e da poluição que os mesmos geram ao meio ambiente.

  6. Plasma complement biomarkers distinguish multiple sclerosis and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Hakobyan, Svetlana; Luppe, Sebastian; Evans, David Rs; Harding, Katharine; Loveless, Samantha; Robertson, Neil P; Morgan, B Paul

    2017-06-01

    Multiple sclerosis (MS) and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) are autoimmune inflammatory demyelinating diseases of the central nervous system. Although distinguished by clinicoradiological and demographic features, early manifestations can be similar complicating management. Antibodies against aquaporin-4 support the diagnosis of NMOSD but are negative in some patients. Therefore, there is unmet need for biomarkers that enable early diagnosis and disease-specific intervention. We investigated whether plasma complement proteins are altered in MS and NMOSD and provide biomarkers that distinguish these diseases. Plasma from 54 NMOSD, 40 MS and 69 control donors was tested in multiplex assays measuring complement activation products and proteins. Using logistic regression, we tested whether combinations of complement analytes distinguished NMOSD from controls and MS. All activation products were elevated in NMOSD compared to either control or MS. Four complement proteins (C1inh, C1s, C5 and FH) were higher in NMOSD compared to MS or controls. A model comprising C1inh and terminal complement complex (TCC) distinguished NMOSD from MS (area under the curve (AUC): 0.98), while C1inh and C5 distinguished NMOSD from controls (AUC: 0.94). NMOSD is distinguished from MS by plasma complement biomarkers. Selected complement analytes enable differential diagnosis. Findings support trials of anti-complement therapies in NMOSD.

  7. Short segment myelitis as a first manifestation of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Huh, So-Young; Kim, Su-Hyun; Hyun, Jae-Won; Jeong, In Hye; Park, Min Su; Lee, Sang-Hyun; Kim, Ho Jin

    2017-03-01

    Some patients with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSD) present with spinal cord lesions extending fewer than three vertebral segments (short transverse myelitis, STM), hindering an early diagnosis. We investigated the frequency and imaging characteristics of STM lesions in patients presenting with myelitis as an initial manifestation of NMOSD. Patients seen at three referral hospitals in Korea between June 2005 and March 2015 who met the following inclusion criteria were recruited for review: seropositivity for aquaporin-4 antibody, initial presentation with myelitis and spinal cord magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) performed within 1 month of initial myelitis onset. Of the 76 enrolled patients, 65 (85.5%) collectively had 69 longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis lesions, while the remaining 11 (14.5%) had a total of 15 STM lesions. Of the 15 STM lesions, 5 spanned 2.5 vertebral segments, 6 were continuous over two segments, 3 showed a length of 1.5 segments and 1 was confined to a single segment. On axial imaging, all of the STM lesions involved the central grey matter. These MRI findings suggested that STM does not preclude the possibility of an NMOSD diagnosis.

  8. Fibras, tejidos de la comunidad indígena u´wa de la Sierra Nevada del Cocuy, vigencia y transformaciones

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Ángela Liliana Dotor Robayo

    2016-07-01

    Full Text Available Este artículo es parte del fomento, la reconstrucción y el mantenimiento del patrimonio de la identidad y la cultura de la comunidad indígena U’wa desde la universidad; muestra la actualidad, la vigencia y las transformaciones de las fibras textiles e indumentaria de la comunidad y su evolución. Teniendo en cuenta el contexto actual de las comunidades indígenas del país y la lucha diaria por mantener vivas sus identidades frente al conflicto y a la globalización que permean cada vez más la vida cotidiana, se muestra cómo con frecuencia esta confrontación termina en el abandono o cesión de sus costumbres ancestrales por unas populares. Para el desarrollo del proyecto se hizo un acercamiento y visitas al resguardo de U´wa del norte de Boyacá, se interactuó con sus integrantes y se hizo un inventario de la producción de tejidos, fibras e indumentaria de la comunidad.

  9. Manejo de la fibra de vidrio en entorno laboral, potenciales efectos sobre la salud y medidas de control (Revisión

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Antonello Pietropaoli

    2015-09-01

    Full Text Available Resumen: La utilización de fibras de vidrio en sustitución del amianto, además de otras aplicaciones, ha contribuido a disminuir drásticamente la incidencia del mesotelioma y otras asociadas patologías asociadas a su utilización. Sin embargo, estudios recientes apuntan a la posibilidad de que su manipulación no se encuentre exenta de riesgos. Metodología: Se realiza una revisión bibliográfica de la literatura científica publicada recientemente en las principales bases de datos bibliográficas biomédicas. Resultados: La principal forma de entrada en el organismo es por vía inhalatoria, por lo que sus principales efectos sobre la salud se producen a nivel de vías respiratorias y su capacidad patogénica depende de su composición química, el tamaño, la biopersistencia y la concentración ambiental. Conclusiones: Existe controversia en la interpretación de resultados de estudios experimentales, aunque muchos autores parecen coincidir en que las fibras 475-glass y la E-glass pueden presentar un mayor riesgo de presentar fibrosis o cáncer pulmonar en animales. La mayoría de estudios en humanos no parece demostrar relación entre exposición con fibrosis pulmonar o la disminución de la capacidad pulmonar, que parecen más relacionadas con el consumo de tabaco. Tampoco existen evidencias claras en cuanto a una posible asociación con determinados cánceres del aparato respiratorio. Estudios recientes sobre efectos citotóxicos y genotóxicos, apuntan a que FMA de diámetro menor de 3 lm y longitud superior a los 5 lm pueden inducir alteraciones en las células A549 del epitelio alveolar de los seres humanos con estrés oxidativo y peroxidación de lípidos de membrana, aunque faltan elementos suficientes que permitan confirmar estos hallazgos. En base a las evidencias existentes en la actualidad, la IARC incluye las fibras de vidrio de filamentos continuos y las lanas de vidrio, roca y escoria dentro del grupo 3 como no

  10. Propriedades de compósitos híbridos de borracha nitrílica, fibras de sisal e carbonato de cálcio Properties of nitrile rubber, sisal fiber and calcium carbonate hybrid composites

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Marco A. Iozzi

    2004-06-01

    Full Text Available Neste trabalho, estudou-se a influência do teor de carbonato de cálcio nas propriedades mecânicas e térmicas da borracha nitrílica, e do comprimento das fibras de sisal nas propriedades mecânicas dos compósitos de borracha nitrílica/fibras de sisal, e borracha nitrílica/carbonato de cálcio/fibras de sisal. Os materiais foram caracterizados através de ensaios mecânicos de resistência à tração, microscopia eletrônica de varredura (MEV, e termogravimetria (TG. O melhor desempenho mecânico dos compósitos com as fibras curtas aleatoriamente distribuídas foi obtido para o comprimento das fibras de 6 mm, e teor de carbonato de 67 pcr. A análise térmica mostrou que os compósitos são estáveis até cerca de 300 °C. Os resultados mostraram que os materiais obtidos possuem uma boa relação custo/benefício tornando promissora sua utilização.In this work, nitrile rubber with sisal fibers composites and nitrile rubber with calcium carbonate and sisal fibers composites were developed. The influence from the calcium carbonate amount and size of sisal fibers on the composite properties was studied. The composites, with short fibers randomly distributed, were characterized by mechanical analysis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM, and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA. The optimal size of sisal fibers to reinforce the nitrile matrix was 6 mm. The ideal volume of calcium carbonate was 67 phr. TGA analysis demonstrated that the composites are stable up to 300 °C. The materials developed have a good cost/benefits relation, being therefore promising their utilization.

  11. Modificação de fibra de carbono com PBLH e sua utilização em compósitos com resina epoxídica Hydroxyl-terminated polybutadiene-grafted carbon fiber in epoxy resin-based composites

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Fábio L. Barcia

    1999-06-01

    Full Text Available Fibras de carbono contendo 1,4 e 2,1mmol/g de grupos carboxila e hidroxila fenólica, respectivamente, foram modificadas através de reação com TDI, resultando em fibras contendo 3,1 mmol/g de grupos isocianato. A introdução de grupos isocianato na superfície da fibra tornou possível a sua modificação com polibutadieno líquido hidroxilado. Fibras de carbono modificadas e não modificadas foram empregadas na preparação de compósitos com resina epoxídica, sendo observado um aumento considerável de resistência ao impacto em compósitos constituídos de fibras de carbono enxertadas com PBLH, devido, provavelmente, à natureza elastomérica da interface e à melhor adesão interfacial.Carbon fibers containing 1,4 e 2,1 mmol/g of carboxyl and phenolic hydroxyl groups, respectively, were modified through the reaction with TDI. The presence of isocyanate groups at the fiber surface made possible the fiber modification with hydroxyl terminated polybutadiene (HTPB. These modified and unmodified carbon fibers were employed in the preparation of epoxy resin-based composites. A substantial improvement in the impact properties was observed in the composites with HTPB-grafted carbon fibers when compared to unmodified carbon fibers. These results may be attributed to a higher interfacial adhesion promoted by reactions between the functional groups present at the modified carbon fiber surface and the epoxy matrix.

  12. Freqüência de consumo de dietas ricas em gordura e pobres em fibra entre adolescentes Frequency of high-fat and low-fiber diets among adolescents

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Marilda Borges Neutzling

    2007-06-01

    Full Text Available OBJETIVO: Descrever a freqüência e os fatores associados ao consumo de dietas ricas em gordura e pobres em fibra em adolescentes. MÉTODOS: Estudo de delineamento transversal com adolescentes de 10 a 12 anos, realizado em 2004/2005, em Pelotas, RS. A freqüência alimentar no ano anterior à pesquisa foi avaliada pelo questionário de Block, composto por 24 itens alimentares, pontuados de acordo com a freqüência de consumo de alimentos ricos em fibras e gorduras. Na análise bruta, as prevalências de dietas ricas em gordura e pobres em fibra foram comparadas conforme sub-grupos das variáveis independentes (sexo, cor da pele, nível socioeconômico, escolaridade materna e estado nutricional do adolescente. Para controle de fatores de confusão, uma análise multivariável por regressão de Poisson foi realizada para cada desfecho. RESULTADOS: Foram encontrados 4.452 adolescentes, representando 87,5% da coorte original. A maioria dos jovens (83,9% consumia dieta pobre em fibra, e mais de um terço deles (36,6% consumia dieta rica em gordura. O nível socioeconômico e a escolaridade materna mostraram-se diretamente associados com a prevalência de consumo de dietas ricas em gordura. Jovens dos níveis socioeconômicos A+B e C apresentaram menor freqüência de consumo de dietas pobres em fibra. CONCLUSÕES: A prevalência de dietas ricas em gordura e pobres em fibra foi elevada nessa população de adolescentes. Políticas públicas dirigidas aos determinantes dos hábitos alimentares são necessárias e urgentes.OBJECTIVE: To describe the frequency and associated factors of high-fat and low-fiber diets among adolescents. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was carried out in adolescents aged 10-12 years in Pelotas, southern Brazil, in 2004 and 2005. Dietary patterns in the previous 12 months were evaluated using the Block questionnaire comprising 24 food items scored according to the frequency of consumption of high-fat and low-fiber food. In

  13. Análise de um amplificador Raman distribuído cobrindo as Bandas C e S utilizando a fibra óptica TrueWave Reach Low Water Peak

    OpenAIRE

    Mizutani, Fausto Hossamu

    2006-01-01

    O desempenho de uma amplificador Raman distribuído na banda C e S utilizando a fibra TrueWave Reach LWP em 100 km de enlace é analisado através de simulações numéricas. Os parâmetros físicos da fibra, como atenuação, dispersão, e eficiência de ganho Raman para bandas C e S foram caracterizados experimentalmente pelo fabricante, a OFS Denmark. Em torno de quatro lasers de bombeamento são necessários para garantir um ganho on-off da ordem de 15dB em 70nm (1500nm a 1570nm), cobrindo a operação ...

  14. Avaliação dos teores de fibra alimentar e de beta-glicanas em cultivares de aveia (Avena sativa L Evaluation of dietary fiber and beta-glucan levels in oat (Avena sativa L cultivars

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Luiz C. GUTKOSKI

    1999-12-01

    Full Text Available A fibra alimentar é composta por celulose, hemiceluloses, gomas, pectinas e mucilagens sendo classificada em solúvel e insolúvel, quanto a sua solubilidade em água. As beta-glicanas são componentes da fibra alimentar solúvel presentes na aveia e sua importância é devido às propriedades funcionais e aos efeitos hipocolesterolêmicos e hipoglicêmicos apresentados. O presente trabalho tem como objetivo avaliar os teores de fibra alimentar solúvel, insolúvel e total e de beta-glicanas de cultivares de aveia recomendados pela Comissão Brasileira de Pesquisa de Aveia. Grãos de aveia (Avena sativa, L foram descascados, as cariopses moídas e as amostras acondicionadas e armazenadas à temperatura de -20° C. Para a análise de fibra alimentar foi adotada a metodologia da AOAC (1997. Entre os cultivares analisados, UPF 7, UPF 13, UPF 14 e UPF 16 apresentaram os maiores teores de fibra alimentar insolúvel. Os maiores teores de fibra alimentar solúvel foram verificados nos cultivares UFRGS 7, CTC 13, UPF 16 e CTC 2. O cultivar UPF 16 apresentou o maior teor de fibra alimentar total, seguido de UFRGS 7, CTC 13 e UFRGS 18. Para a determinação de beta-glicanas foi adotada a metodologia da AOAC (1997. Os maiores teores de beta-glicanas foram verificados nos cultivares UFRGS 7, UPF 14 e UFRGS 18.The dietary fiber is composed by cellulose, hemi-celluloses, gums, pectins, and mucilages, being classified as soluble or insoluble depending on its solubility in water. Beta-glucans are a fraction of the soluble dietary fiber, being important due to its functional properties and effects in reducing cholesterol and glucose. This work aimed at evaluating the levels of soluble, insoluble, and total dietary fiber, as well as the amount of beta-glucans, present in grains of oat cultivars recommended by the Brazilian Commission for Oat Research. Oat grains were hulled, the caryopses were ground and the samples packaged and stored at temperature of -20º

  15. Tenacidade à fratura translaminar dinâmica de um laminado híbrido metal-fibra para uso em elevadas temperaturas Translaminar dynamic fracture toughness of a hybrid fiber-metal laminate devised to high-temperature applications

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    José R. Tarpani

    2010-01-01

    Full Text Available A tenacidade à fratura translaminar dinâmica do laminado híbrido metal-fibra titânio-grafite com matriz termoplástica foi determinada sob as velocidades de impacto de 2,25 e 5,52 m/s, no intervalo de temperaturas de -196 a +180 °C, e comparada à de laminados compósitos convencionais de fibras de carbono e resina epóxi. Constatou-se que o laminado híbrido exibe uma tenacidade à iniciação da fratura inferior à dos compósitos tradicionais com fibras na forma de fita unidirecional, porém superior à dos laminados convencionais com fibras na forma de tecido bidirecional. Os ensaios de impacto revelaram que, comparativamente ao desempenho mecânico dos laminados carbono-epóxi, o emprego do laminado híbrido metal-fibra se justifica mais pela sua resistência à propagação do que à iniciação da fratura dinâmica.The translaminar dynamic fracture toughness of titanium-graphite hybrid fiber-metal laminate with thermoplastic matrix has been determined at the impact velocities of 2.25 and 5.52 m/s, within the temperature range from -196 to +180 ºC, and compared to that of conventional carbon-epoxy composite laminates. The hybrid laminate exhibits lower initiation fracture toughness than traditional unidirectional tape composites though it is tougher than conventional woven fabric laminates. Impact tests revealed that, if compared to the mechanical performance of conventional carbon-epoxy laminates, the fiber-metal laminate application must rely on its resistance to dynamic fracture propagation rather than on fracture initiation.

  16. Systematic review of the published data on the worldwide prevalence of John Cunningham virus in patients with multiple sclerosis and neuromyelitis optica.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Paz, Sonia Patricia Castedo; Branco, Luciana; Pereira, Marina Alves de Camargo; Spessotto, Caroline; Fragoso, Yara Dadalti

    2018-01-01

    John Cunningham virus (JCV) is a polyoma virus that infects humans, mainly in childhood or adolescence, and presents no symptomatic manifestations. JCV can cause progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) in immunosuppressed individuals, including those undergoing treatment for multiple sclerosis (MS) and neuromyelitis optica (NMO). PML is a severe and potentially fatal disease of the brain. The prevalence of JCV antibodies in human serum has been reported to be between 50.0 and 90.0%. The aim of the present study was to review worldwide data on populations of patients with MS and NMO in order to establish the rates of JCV seropositivity in these individuals. The present review followed the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines and used the following search terms: "JCV" OR "JC virus" AND "multiple sclerosis" OR "MS" OR "NMO" OR "neuromyelitis optica" AND "prevalence." These terms were searched for both in smaller and in larger clusters of words. The databases searched included PubMed, MEDLINE, SciELO, LILACS, Google Scholar, and Embase. After the initial selection, 18 papers were included in the review. These articles reported the prevalence of JCV antibodies in the serum of patients with MS or NMO living in 26 countries. The systematic review identified data on 29,319 patients with MS/NMO and found that 57.1% of them (16,730 individuals) were seropositive for the anti-JCV antibody (range, 40.0 to 69.0%). The median worldwide prevalence of JCV among adults with MS or NMO was found to be 57.1%.

  17. Comportamiento a tracción de cementos reforzados con fibras de vidrio

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Sánchez Paradela, M. Laura

    1991-06-01

    Full Text Available Glassfibre Reinforced Cement (GRC is a composite material widely used in the field of building construction. It offers multiple applications due to its high strength as well as fire and corrosoón resistance. However, it degradates with time, affecting its mechanical properties, mainly its ductility, becoming progressively brittle and cracking under low deformations. Therefore, with the aim of predicting the mechanical behaviour of the material, both at short time and long time, a wide experimental program has been carried out, testing fresh material as well as aged material. A high number of tensile tests have been performed, using GRC specimens with different kind of fibres and different manufacturing processes for comparison of results. It must be pointed out that it is the first time that tensile tests of GRC specimens have been carried out in Spain.

    El cemento reforzado con fibras de vidrio (GRC es un material compuesto que se viene utilizando ampliamente en el campo de la Construcción. Presenta múltiples aplicaciones debido a sus buenas propiedades resistentes y de protección frente al fuego y la corrosión. Sin embargo, sufre un deterioro con el tiempo, que afecta a sus propiedades mecánicas, principalmente a su ductilidad, volviéndose frágil y agrietándose bajo pequeñas deformaciones. Por tal motivo y con el fin de predecir el comportamiento mecánico del material a corto y a largo plazo, se ha desarrollado un extenso programa experimental, empleando tanto material joven como envejecido. Se han realizado numerosos ensayos de tracción directa, utilizando probetas de GRC con diversos tipos de fibras y empleando distintos métodos de fabricación para una comparación de resultados. Es la primera vez que se realizan ensayos de tracción directa en España sobre probetas de GRC.

  18. Tonic spasms are a common clinical manifestation in patients with neuromyelitis optica Espasmos tônicos são manifestações clínicas frequentes em pacientes com neuromielite óptica

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Luz Abaroa

    2013-05-01

    Full Text Available Tonic spasms have been most commonly associated with multiple sclerosis. To date, few reports of series of patients with neuromyelitis optica and tonic spasms have been published. Methods: We analyzed the characteristics and frequency of tonic spasms in 19 subjects with neuromyelitis optica. Data was collected using a semi-structured questionnaire for tonic spasms, by both retrospectively reviewing medical records and performing clinical assessment. Results: All patients except one developed this symptom. The main triggering factors were sudden movements and emotional factors. Spasms were commonly associated to sensory disturbances and worsened during the acute phases of the disease. Carbamazepine was most commonly used to treat the symptom and patients showed good response to the drug. Conclusions: Tonic spasms are a common clinical manifestation in patients with neuromyelitis optica.Espasmos tônicos têm sido mais frequentemente associados com esclerose múltipla. Foram publicados até agora poucos relatos de série de pacientes com neuromielite óptica e espasmos tônicos. Métodos: Foram analisadas as características e a frequência de espasmos tônicos em 19 indivíduos com neuromielite óptica. Os dados foram coletados por meio de um questionário semiestruturado para espasmos tônicos, mediante a avaliação retrospectiva dos prontuários e a análise dos dados clínicos Resultados: Todos os pacientes com neuromielite óptica exceto um apresentaram espasmos tônicos. Os principais fatores desencadeantes foram movimentos bruscos e fatores emocionais. Espasmos foram frequentemente associados a perturbações sensoriais e se agravaram durante a fase aguda da doença. A carbamazepina foi utilizada frequentemente para tratar os sintomas, com boa resposta. Conclusões: Os espasmos tônicos são manifestações clínicas frequentes em pacientes com neuromielite óptica.

  19. Viabilidade do aproveitamento de resíduos de fibras vegetais para fins de obtenção de material de construção Suitability of vegetable fiber residues as construction material

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Holmer Savastano Junior

    2000-04-01

    Full Text Available O presente estudo abordou a existência e as principais características de vinte resíduos de fibras vegetais, resultantes de processos agroindustriais, voltados para a obtenção de oito diferentes tipos de fibras comerciais. Com base em critérios de seleção inicialmente estabelecidos, foram identificados seis resíduos de maior interesse. Os resultados indicaram a potencialidade do seu emprego, no reforço de matrizes frágeis, à base de cimento Portland, para aumento de sua ductilidade. Telhas produzidas a partir de compósitos reforçados com fibras residuais de sisal "baler twine", coco, polpa de eucalipto, malva e banana, além de combinação entre fibras de coco e polpa de eucalipto, resistiram a cargas na flexão, superiores a 680 N, em conformidade com especificações internacionais.Twenty vegetable fiber by-products from agro-industrial production of eight different commercial fibers were analyzed in this study. Based on previously established selection criteria, six main types of residue were identified. Results showed that the selected by-products may be used as reinforcement of fragile cementitious matrices, for ductility improvement. Tiles produced with composites reinforced by residual fibers of sisal baler twine, coir, eucalyptus pulp, malva, banana, or a mixture of coir fibers and eucalyptus pulp, supported flexural loads in excess of 680N in keeping with international specifications.

  20. Anti-N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor encephalitis in a patient with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Luo, Jing-Jing; Lv, He; Sun, Wei; Zhao, Juan; Hao, Hong-Jun; Gao, Feng; Huang, Yi-Ning

    2016-07-01

    We described a female patient with anti-N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) encephalitis occurring sequentially with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSD). The 19-year-old patient initially presented a diencephalic syndrome with aquaporin-4 immunoglobulin G antibodies (AQP4-IgG) and brain lesions which involving bilateral medial temporal lobes and periependymal surfaces of the third ventricle on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Ten months later, the patient developed cognitive impairment, psychiatric symptoms and dyskinesia with left basal ganglia lesions on brain MRI. Meanwhile, the anti-NMDAR antibodies were positive in the patient's serum and cerebrospinal fluid, while the screening tests for an ovarian teratoma and other tumors were all negative. Hence, the patient was diagnosed NMOSD and anti-NMDAR encephalitis followed by low-dose rituximab treatment with a good response. This case was another evidence for demyelinating syndromes overlapping anti-NMDAR encephalitis in Chinese patients. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  1. Efecto de mezclas de fibra semicomposteada con suelo en el crecimiento y la tolerancia de enfermedades en vivero de palma aceitera

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Gabriel Garbanzo

    2017-01-01

    Full Text Available Se evaluó el efecto de diferentes mezclas de compost de fibra de racimos vacíos con suelo para sustrato en plantas de palma aceitera en vivero y su efecto sobre la severidad del Complejo de Necrosis Foliar (CNF en el Pacífico Sur de Costa Rica. Se realizaron mezclas volumétricas de 12, 25 37 y 50% de compost de fibra (C con un Inceptisol eútrico. Se sembraron plantas de palma aceitera del material Compacta x Ghana, se llenaron bolsas de 20 L y se acomodaron en un diseño experimental de bloques completos al azar, que comprendieron 5 tratamientos y 4 repeticiones. A los 85, 127, 176, 219, 261 y 304 días después de siembra (dds, se evaluó el crecimiento morfológico de las plantas, el porcentaje de severidad de CNF en las hojas y el peso seco de plantas, y se calculó la absorción de nutrimentos. También se evaluó la densidad aparente del suelo (Dap y la conductividad hidráulica (CH en las mezclas a los 90 y 300 dds. Se encontró que el tratamiento de 12% de fibra con suelo mostró significativamente el menor porcentaje de severidad de CNF y presentó el mayor balance porcentual de eficiencia de fertilización de los nutrimentos en comparación con el resto de los tratamientos. La Dap fue significativamente inferior y la CH superior en todas las mezclas cuando se comparó con el testigo. Se puede concluir que la mezcla de 12% de compost con 88% de suelo mejoró la absorción de nutrimentos en las plantas y aumentó la tolerancia a CNF en las plantas de palma aceitera en vivero.

  2. Neuromyelitis optica: association with paroxysmal painful tonic spasms.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Carnero Contentti, E; Leguizamón, F; Hryb, J P; Celso, J; Pace, J L Di; Ferrari, J; Knorre, E; Perassolo, M B

    2016-10-01

    Paroxysmal painful tonic spasms (PPTS) were initially described in multiple sclerosis (MS) but they are more frequent in neuromyelitis optica (NMO). The objective is to report their presence in a series of cases of NMO and NMO spectrum disorders (NMOSD), as well as to determine their frequency and clinical features. We conducted a retrospective assessment of medical histories of NMO/NMOSD patients treated in 2 hospitals in Buenos Aires (Hospital Durand and Hospital Álvarez) between 2009 and 2013. Out of 15 patients with NMOSD (7 with definite NMO and 8 with limited NMO), 4 presented PPTS (26.66%). PPTS frequency in the definite NMO group was 57.14% (4/7). Of the 9 patients with longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis (LETM), 44.44% (9/15) presented PPTS. Mean age was 35 years (range, 22-38 years) and all patients were women. Mean time between NMO diagnosis and PPTS onset was 7 months (range, 1-29 months) and mean time from last relapse of LETM was 30 days (range 23-40 days). LETM (75% cervicothoracic and 25% thoracic) was observed by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in all patients. Control over spasms and pain was achieved in all patients with carbamazepine (associated with gabapentin in one case). No favourable responses to pregabalin, gabapentin, or phenytoin were reported. PPTS are frequent in NMO. Mean time of PPTS onset is approximately one month after an LETM relapse, with extensive cervicothoracic lesions appearing on the MRI scan. They show an excellent response to carbamazepine but little or no response to pregabalin and gabapentin. Prospective studies with larger numbers of patients are necessary in order to confirm these results. Copyright © 2014 Sociedad Española de Neurología. Publicado por Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

  3. Widespread cortical thinning in patients with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Kim, S-H; Kwak, K; Hyun, J-W; Jeong, I H; Jo, H-J; Joung, A; Kim, J-H; Lee, S H; Yun, S; Joo, J; Lee, J-M; Kim, H J

    2016-07-01

    Studies on cortical involvement and its relationship with cognitive function in patients with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) remain scarce. The objective of this study was to compare cortical thickness on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) between patients with NMOSD and multiple sclerosis (MS) and to investigate its relationship with clinical features and cognitive function. This observational clinical imaging study of 91 patients with NMOSD, 52 patients with MS and 44 healthy controls was conducted from 1 December 2013 to 30 April 2015 at the institutional referral center. Three tesla MRI of the brain and neuropsychological tests were performed. Cortical thickness was measured using three-dimensional surface-based analysis. Both sets of patients exhibited cortical thinning throughout the entire brain cortex. Patients with MS showed a significantly greater reduction in cortical thickness over broad regions of the bilateral frontal and parieto-temporal cortices and the left precuneus compared to those with NMOSD. Memory functions in patients with MS were correlated with broad regional cortical thinning, whereas no significant associations were observed between cortical thickness and cognitive function in patients with NMOSD. Widespread cortical thinning was observed in patients with NMOSD and MS, but the extent of cortical thinning was greater in patients with MS. The more severe cortical atrophy may contribute to memory impairment in patients with MS but not in those with NMOSD. These results provide in vivo evidence that the severity and clinical relevance of cortical thinning differ between NMOSD and MS. © 2016 EAN.

  4. Comparative clinical characteristics of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders with and without medulla oblongata lesions.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Wang, Yanqiang; Zhang, Lei; Zhang, Bingjun; Dai, Yongqiang; Kang, Zhuang; Lu, Ciyong; Qiu, Wei; Hu, Xueqiang; Lu, Zhengqi

    2014-05-01

    Brainstem involvement, especially the medulla oblongata (MO), has been reported in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSDs). The purpose of this study was to investigate retrospectively and compare clinical, laboratory, and imaging features of NMOSDs with and without MO lesions. A total of 170 patients with NMOSDs were enrolled, including 44 patients with MO lesions and 126 patients without MO lesions. Clinical features, laboratory tests, and magnetic resonance imaging findings among these patients were assessed. MO lesions were found in 25.9 % of the NMOSDs patients. The mean duration was 13 months. Patients with MO lesions had a higher Annualized relapse rate and Expanded Disability Status Score Scale. Headache, dizziness, nystagmus, dysarthria, intractable hiccup and nausea, choking cough or dysphagia, movement disorders, and neuropathic pain were more common in MO lesion patients. Patients with MO lesions were more frequently complicated with thyroid diseases. Multiple brain involvement, More importantly, Longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis were more frequently found in patients with MO lesions. MO lesions might be a symbol of more severe neurologic deficits and worse prognosis of NMOSDs.

  5. Estudo das propriedades mecânicas e dos mecanismos de fratura de fibras sintéticas do tipo náilon  e poliéster  em tecidos de engenharia

    OpenAIRE

    Sérgio Gomes Cardoso

    2009-01-01

    Fibras são definidas como o conjunto formado de filamentos orientados na direção da cadeia molecular e são parte fundamental na vida diária do ser humano, encontradas de várias formas, tais como filamentos, fios, feixes, cordas, tecidos, compósitos, revestimentos, entre outras. Elas abrangem diversas áreas, tais como civil, mecânica, elétrica, eletrônica, militar, naval, náutica, aeronáutica, saúde, medicina, ambiental, comunicação, segurança, espacial, entre outras. A fibras são divididas em...

  6. Factors associated with the effectiveness of plasma exchange for the treatment of NMO-IgG-positive neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Lim, Young-Min; Pyun, So Young; Kang, Bong-Hui; Kim, Jimin; Kim, Kwang-Kuk

    2013-08-01

    To identify factors associated with plasma exchange response in neuromyelitis optica (NMO) spectrum disorders, the clinical and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) features of 31 NMO-IgG-positive patients receiving plasma exchange for steroid-resistant exacerbations were analyzed. Functional improvement was observed in 65% of the patients. A lower baseline Expanded Disability Status Scale score was associated with favorable response (p = 0.040). Patients without cord atrophy had a higher success rate than patients with atrophy (p = 0.016). Levels of NMO-IgG did not differ between responders and non-responders before and after plasma exchange. In conclusion, a minimal pre-existing disability is the primary determinant of the effectiveness of plasma exchange.

  7. Correlações entre a maturidade da fibra e outros caracteres econômicos do algodoeiro Simple correlations between fiber maturity and economic characteristics in cotton

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Nélson Paulieri Sabino

    1976-07-01

    Full Text Available As características da fibra - comprimento, uniformidade, índice Micronaire (finura, resistência Pressley -, a resistência do fio, assim como a porcentagem de fibra, peso de um capulho, peso de 100 sementes e a produção, foram correlacionados com a maturidade da fibra, determinada pelo fibrógrafo digital. Para tanto foram utilizados os dados de 12 ensaios regionais de variedades instalados no ano agrícola de 1970/71, e de 13 ensaios instalados em 1971/72, em diferentes locais do Estado de São Paulo. Esses ensaios, em quadrado latino 6x6, forneceram 72 pares de valores no primeiro ano e 78 pares no segundo, para os cálculos dos coeficientes de correlação. Estes foram computados por ano e por variedade. Valores médios foram estimados através da transformação Z de Fisher. Houve variações sensíveis no valor dos coeficientes entre anos dentro de variedades e entre variedades dentro de ano. As estimativas médias foram significativas, com exceção da resistência da fibra, da resistência do fio e da porcentagem de fibra. Houve falta de homogeneidade nos casos do índice Micronaire e da uniformidade de comprimento. No ano de 1971/72, de condições piores para o algodoeiro, os coeficientes de correlação alcançaram valores mais altos.Simple correlations between maturity indices determined by the digital fibrograph and the characteristics of fiber length, uniformity, Micronaire, Pressley (1/8 gauge, yarn strength, mean boll weight, mean weight of 100 seeds, percentage of fiber, and yield were studied. Data of 12 experiments of regional variety tests planted in 1970/71 and of 13 experiments planted in 1971/72 in different regions of the State of São Paulo were used. These experiments delined in 6x6 latin squares yielded 72 pairs of data in the first year and 78 in the second year. Correlation coefficients were computed by variety within years and mean estimates obtained through Fisher's Z transformation. Large variations of the

  8. Desempenho produtivo, composição corporal e parâmetros fisiológicos de pacu alimentado com níveis crescentes de fibra Productive performance, body composition and physiological parameters of pacu fed increasing levels of fiber

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Laurindo André Rodrigues

    2010-08-01

    Full Text Available O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar os efeitos de teores de fibra bruta na dieta sobre o desempenho produtivo, composição centesimal da carcaça e parâmetros fisiológicos de juvenis de pacu. O experimento teve duração de 84 dias, e foram utilizados 360 juvenis de pacu, com peso médio de 23,97±0,59 g, distribuídos aleatóriamente em 30 tanques com 180 L de água, em delineamento inteiramente casualizado, com seis tratamentos (5, 7, 9, 11, 13 e 15% de fibra bruta e cinco repetições. Dietas com altos teores de fibra (11, 13 e 15% resultaram em piores taxas de ganho de peso, conversão alimentar e crescimento específico, além de menor eficiência proteica e consumo de ração. A composição da carcaça dos animais foi alterada pelo aumento do teor de fibra das dietas. Os teores de proteína e cinza tiveram aumento com o incremento nos teores de fibra. O metabolismo foi alterado com o emprego de teores crescentes de fibra, o que resultou em pequena elevação do colesterol plasmático. Teores de fibra bruta de até 9% não tiveram efeitos negativos no metabolismo; entretanto, teores acima de 11% reduziram o crescimento dos peixes.The objective of this work was to evaluate the effects of dietary crude fiber contents on productive performance, carcass composition and physiological parameters of pacu juveniles. The experiment was carried out during 84 days, 360 pacu juveniles were used with mean weight 23.97±0.59 g, stocked in 30 tanks with 180 L of water, in a completely randomized design, with six treatments (5, 7, 9, 11, 13 and 15% crude fiber and five replicates. Diets with high fiber contents (11, 13 and 15% resulted in worse rates of weight gain, feed conversion, and specific growth, besides lower protein efficiency ratio and feed consumption. Carcass composition changed by increasing the contents of dietary fiber. Body contents of protein and ash increased along with the fiber levels. The metabolism changed with the use of

  9. Avaliação da reprodutibilidade das medidas da camada de fibras nervosas retiniana e da cabeça do nervo óptico pela tomografia de coerência óptica

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Ricardo Rau

    2012-10-01

    Full Text Available OBJETIVO: Determinar a reprodutibilidade da espessura da camada de fibras nervosas da retina peripapilar e dos parâmetros da cabeça do nervo óptico em olhos normais, utilizando a tomografia de coerência óptica de domínio espectral (SD-OCT. MÉTODOS: Trinta e quatro olhos de 34 indivíduos saudáveis foram incluídos no estudo. O protocolo do cubo do disco óptico 200x200 do OCT Cirrus foi utilizado para gerar 3 imagens de cada olho para avaliar a reprodutibilidade. O coeficiente de correlação intraclasse (ICC foi calculado para as medidas da espessura da camada de fibras nervosas da retina e da cabeça do nervo óptico. RESULTADOS: A correlação foi excelente para todas as medidas da espessura da camada de fibras nervosas da retina (ICC entre 0,87 e 0,98. O mesmo ocorreu com os parâmetros da cabeça do nervo óptico que, com exceção da razão E/D vertical (ICC 0,56, apresentou ICC entre 0,83 e 0,99. CONCLUSÃO: As medidas de espessura da camada de fibras nervosas da retina peripapilar e os parâmetros da cabeça no nervo óptico demonstraram uma excelente reprodutibilidade com o OCT Cirrus, indicando que este aparelho poderá ser uma ferramenta útil no estudo do glaucoma. Este estudo apresenta algumas limitações, como o pequeno número de casos avaliados, sendo necessários maiores estudos para corroborar nossos achados.

  10. Treatment of neuromyelitis optica: state-of-the-art and emerging therapies

    Science.gov (United States)

    Papadopoulos, Marios C.; Bennett, Jeffrey L.; Verkman, Alan S.

    2014-01-01

    Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) is an autoimmune disease of the CNS that is characterized by inflammatory demyelinating lesions in the spinal cord and optic nerve, potentially leading to paralysis and blindness. NMO can usually be distinguished from multiple sclerosis (MS) on the basis of seropositivity for IgG antibodies against the astrocytic water channel aquaporin-4 (AQP4). Differentiation from MS is crucial, because some MS treatments can exacerbate NMO. NMO pathogenesis involves AQP4-IgG antibody binding to astrocytic AQP4, which causes complement-dependent cytotoxicity and secondary inflammation with granulocyte and macrophage infiltration, blood–brain barrier disruption and oligodendrocyte injury. Current NMO treatments include general immunosuppressive agents, B-cell depletion, and plasma exchange. Therapeutic strategies targeting complement proteins, the IL-6 receptor, neutrophils, eosinophils and CD19—all initially developed for other indications—are under clinical evaluation for repurposing for NMO. Therapies in the preclinical phase include AQP4-blocking antibodies and AQP4-IgG enzymatic inactivation. Additional, albeit currently theoretical, treatment options include reduction of AQP4 expression, disruption of AQP4 orthogonal arrays, enhancement of complement inhibitor expression, restoration of the blood–brain barrier, and induction of immune tolerance. Despite the many therapeutic options in NMO, no controlled clinical trials in patients with this condition have been conducted to date. PMID:25112508

  11. Desenvolvimento de barras de cereais à base de aveia com alto teor de fibra alimentar Development of oat based cereal bars with high dietary fiber content

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Luiz Carlos Gutkoski

    2007-06-01

    Full Text Available A barra de cereal é um alimento nutritivo de sabor adocicado e agradável, fonte de vitaminas, sais minerais, fibras, proteínas e carboidratos complexos. O trabalho objetivou estudar o efeito da concentração de fibra alimentar e de açúcar na calda em barras de cereais elaboradas à base de aveia com alto teor de fibra alimentar. No estudo foram utilizados flocos, farelo e farinha de aveia, do cultivar UPFA 22, selecionado com base no teor de fibras e beta-glucanas. Os ingredientes secos e ligantes foram adquiridos no comércio local e utilizados na proporção de 70 e 30%, respectivamente, em quantidades definidas a partir de testes laboratoriais. O experimento foi realizado em delineamento composto central rotacional aplicável à metodologia de superfície de resposta, sendo avaliado o efeito da concentração de açúcar na calda (70, 75 e 80 °Brix e do teor de fibra alimentar da formulação (12, 16 e 20% na composição química, valor calórico, atividade de água, microbiologia e características sensoriais das barras de cereais. Os resultados das variáveis respostas foram tratados por análise de regressão múltipla. E foram utilizados no modelo matemático de segunda ordem os termos lineares, quadráticos e de interação, significativos. A aveia pode ser utilizada como ingrediente na elaboração de barras de cereais por apresentar textura, sabor e aparência adequados. O uso de aveia na formulação possibilita produzir barras de cereais com alto teor de fibra alimentar e fonte de beta-glucanas. As barras de cereais apresentam propriedades sensoriais agradáveis, similares às industrializadas e melhor aceitas quando elaboradas com média concentração de açúcar na calda e altos teores de fibra alimentar. As barras de cereais apresentam baixa atividade de água e atendem às especificações sanitárias, sendo estáveis durante 60 dias de armazenamento.Cereal bars are a nutritional food of sweetened and acceptable flavor

  12. Risk of venous thromboembolism in neuromyelitis optica patients hospitalized for acute relapse.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Farber, Rebecca Straus; Gross, Robert; Zakin, Elina; Fabian, Michelle

    2017-06-01

    Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) patients may be at increased risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) not only due to ambulatory disability but also due to systemic autoimmune and inflammatory mechanisms altering the hemostatic balance. To compare the risk of VTE in NMOSD versus multiple sclerosis (MS) patients hospitalized for acute relapses. Hospital admissions for MS or NMOSD exacerbations were retrospectively identified. Demographics and medical history were recorded. The relationship between visit diagnosis and presence of VTE within 6 weeks of relapse onset was assessed by univariate logistic regression. A multivariate model evaluated the relationship between diagnosis, age, race, gender, body mass index (BMI), disease modifying therapy use, oral corticosteroid use, oral contraceptive use, smoking, length of stay (LOS), and ambulatory status on VTE risk. A total of 30 NMOSD patients had 55 hospitalizations; 179 MS patients had 264 hospitalizations. Six NMOSD patients and one MS patient had VTE. NMOSD visits compared to MS visits had an odds ratio (OR) of VTE of 32.2 ( p = 0.002). NMOSD was more likely to be associated with VTE (OR = 17.4; p = 0.01) controlling for age, LOS, and ambulatory disability. NMOSD may be a risk factor for VTE. Larger prospective studies are required to confirm this risk and determine implications for prophylaxis.

  13. Brain parenchymal damage in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder - A multimodal MRI study

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Pache, F.; Paul, F. [Max Delbrueck Center for Molecular Medicine and Charite Universitaetsmedizin Berlin, NeuroCure Clinical Research Center and Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Berlin (Germany); Charite Universitaetsmedizin Berlin, Department of Neurology, Berlin (Germany); Zimmermann, H.; Lacheta, A.; Papazoglou, S.; Kuchling, J.; Wuerfel, J.; Brandt, A.U. [Max Delbrueck Center for Molecular Medicine and Charite Universitaetsmedizin Berlin, NeuroCure Clinical Research Center and Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Berlin (Germany); Finke, C. [Charite Universitaetsmedizin Berlin, Department of Neurology, Berlin (Germany); Humboldt-Universitaet zu Berlin, Berlin School of Mind and Brain, Berlin (Germany); Hamm, B. [Charite Universitaetsmedizin Berlin, Department of Radiology, Berlin (Germany); Ruprecht, K. [Charite Universitaetsmedizin Berlin, Department of Neurology, Berlin (Germany); Scheel, M. [Max Delbrueck Center for Molecular Medicine and Charite Universitaetsmedizin Berlin, NeuroCure Clinical Research Center and Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Berlin (Germany); Charite Universitaetsmedizin Berlin, Department of Radiology, Berlin (Germany)

    2016-12-15

    To investigate different brain regions for grey (GM) and white matter (WM) damage in a well-defined cohort of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) patients and compare advanced MRI techniques (VBM, Subcortical and cortical analyses (Freesurfer), and DTI) for their ability to detect damage in NMOSD. We analyzed 21 NMOSD patients and 21 age and gender matched control subjects. VBM (GW/WM) and DTI whole brain (TBSS) analyses were performed at different statistical thresholds to reflect different statistical approaches in previous studies. In an automated atlas-based approach, Freesurfer and DTI results were compared between NMOSD and controls. DTI TBSS and DTI atlas based analysis demonstrated microstructural impairment only within the optic radiation or in regions associated with the optic radiation (posterior thalamic radiation p < 0.001, 6.9 % reduction of fractional anisotropy). VBM demonstrated widespread brain GM and WM reduction, but only at exploratory statistical thresholds, with no differences remaining after correction for multiple comparisons. Freesurfer analysis demonstrated no group differences. NMOSD specific parenchymal brain damage is predominantly located in the optic radiation, likely due to a secondary degeneration caused by ON. In comparison, DTI appears to be the most reliable and sensitive technique for brain damage detection in NMOSD. (orig.)

  14. Gender effect on neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder with aquaporin4-immunoglobulin G.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Kim, Sung-Min; Waters, Patrick; Woodhall, Mark; Kim, Yoo-Jin; Kim, Jin-Ah; Cheon, So Young; Lee, Sehoon; Jo, Seong Rae; Kim, Dong Gun; Jung, Kyeong Cheon; Lee, Kwang-Woo; Sung, Jung-Joon; Park, Kyung Seok

    2017-07-01

    Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder with aquaporin4-immunoglobulin G (NMOSD-AQP4) is an inflammatory disease characterised by a high female predominance. However, the effect of gender in patients with NMOSD-AQP4 has not been fully evaluated. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of gender in clinical manifestations and prognosis of patients with NMOSD-AQP4. The demographics, clinical and radiological characteristics, pattern reversal visual evoked potential (VEP) test results, and prognosis of 102 patients (18 males) with NMOSD-AQP4 were assessed. Male patients had a higher age at onset (48.7 vs 41 years, p = 0.037) and less optic neuritis as the onset attack (17% vs 44%, p = 0.026), higher tendency to manifest as isolated myelitis over the follow-up period (67% vs 28%, p = 0.005), fewer optic neuritis attacks per year (0.08 vs 0.27, p gender was significantly associated with the absence of optic neuritis attacks over the follow-up period independent of their age of onset. In NMOSD-AQP4 patients, gender impacts on disease onset age and site of attack. This may be an important clue in identifying NMOSD-AQP4 patients with limited manifestations as well as in predicting their clinical courses.

  15. Brain parenchymal damage in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder - A multimodal MRI study

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Pache, F.; Paul, F.; Zimmermann, H.; Lacheta, A.; Papazoglou, S.; Kuchling, J.; Wuerfel, J.; Brandt, A.U.; Finke, C.; Hamm, B.; Ruprecht, K.; Scheel, M.

    2016-01-01

    To investigate different brain regions for grey (GM) and white matter (WM) damage in a well-defined cohort of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) patients and compare advanced MRI techniques (VBM, Subcortical and cortical analyses (Freesurfer), and DTI) for their ability to detect damage in NMOSD. We analyzed 21 NMOSD patients and 21 age and gender matched control subjects. VBM (GW/WM) and DTI whole brain (TBSS) analyses were performed at different statistical thresholds to reflect different statistical approaches in previous studies. In an automated atlas-based approach, Freesurfer and DTI results were compared between NMOSD and controls. DTI TBSS and DTI atlas based analysis demonstrated microstructural impairment only within the optic radiation or in regions associated with the optic radiation (posterior thalamic radiation p < 0.001, 6.9 % reduction of fractional anisotropy). VBM demonstrated widespread brain GM and WM reduction, but only at exploratory statistical thresholds, with no differences remaining after correction for multiple comparisons. Freesurfer analysis demonstrated no group differences. NMOSD specific parenchymal brain damage is predominantly located in the optic radiation, likely due to a secondary degeneration caused by ON. In comparison, DTI appears to be the most reliable and sensitive technique for brain damage detection in NMOSD. (orig.)

  16. Importancia de la fibra dietética para la nutrición humana Importance of dietary fibre for human nutrition

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Jorge Luis Cabrera Llano

    2006-12-01

    Full Text Available La inclusión de la fibra dietética en la dieta diaria de los seres humanos parece desempeñar una importante función para la prevención y el tratamiento de algunas enfermedades crónicas. Esta revisión tiene como objetivo brindar una actualización sobre los avances recientes publicados acerca de la utilidad de la fibra dietética en la salud y contra las enfermedades. Entre los beneficios que aporta un ingreso adecuado de fibra dietética, se encuentran la disminución de la presión arterial, la reducción del riesgo de cáncer colorrectal, el efecto hipocolesterolemizante, menor riesgo de enfermedad cardiovascular y un mejor control de la diabetes mellitus II. Aunque se postulan diferentes mecanismos por los cuales reporta los beneficios, aún no hay resultados concluyentes, pero sí está establecido que el aumento en el ingreso dietético de cereales, leguminosas, frutas y vegetales, favorece la preservación de la salud y el control de algunas enfermedades crónicas.The inclusion of dietary fiber in the daily diet of the human beings seems to play an important role for the prevention and treatment of some chronic diseases. The purpose of this review is to offer an updating on the publication of the latest advances related to the usefulness of the dietary fiber for health and against the diseases. The decrease of arterial hypertension, the reduction of the risk for colorectal cancer, the colesterol lowering effect, the lower risk for cardiovascular disease, and the better control of type 2 diabetes mellitus, are among the benefits of an adequate intake of dietary fiber. Although there have been proposed different mechanisms through which the benefits are reported, there are no conclusive results yet, but it is established that the increase of cereals, legumes, fruit and vegetables in the diet favors the preservation of health and the control of some chronic diseases.

  17. DESENVOLVIMENTO DE SORVETE ENRIQUECIDO COM FIBRAS DE LINHAÇA E LACTOBACILOS VIVOS E SUA VIABILIDADE

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Marina Leopoldina Lamounier,

    2012-08-01

    Full Text Available Observa-se um aumento no número de consumidores conscientes que se preocupam em adquirir produtos de qualidade, que apresentam sabor e aparência agradáveis e são mais nutritivos e saudáveis. Dentre esses alimentos, se destacam os probióticos e as fibras que são comprovadamente benéficos à saúde. Este trabalho teve como objetivos desenvolver sorvete de ameixa enriquecido com fibras de linhaça e lactobacilos vivos, bem como verificar sua aceitação e viabilidade durante o período de validade. Foi utilizado Lactobacillus acidophilus como agente de fermentação do leite e sua viabilidade na mistura foi avaliada através das análises microbiológicas durante 0, 7, 14, 21 e 28 dias de estocagem. Os resultados obtidos mostraram que sorvete pode ser armazenado durante 28 dias a -18 ºC mantendo as suas características probióticas. Apesar de haver uma redução no número de células viáveis após o armazenamento, o sorvete apresentou no final desse período contagens médias de 1,9 x 107 UFC/g, estando de acordo com a legislação podendo, portanto ser considerado um alimento probiótico. A avaliação sensorial foi realizada por 50 provadores não treinados onde 91% aprovaram o produto e 76% declararam que comprariam o produto. Assim, demonstra-se a viabilidade de elaboração do sorvete adicionado de Lactobacillus acidophilus e linhaça.

  18. Estudo da influência de tratamentos químicos da fibra de sisal nas propriedades de compósitos com borracha nitrílica Study of the influence from chemical treatments of sisal fibers on the properties of composites with nitrile rubber

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Marco A. Iozzi

    2010-01-01

    Full Text Available A influência de diferentes tratamentos das fibras de sisal nas propriedades dos compósitos de borracha nitrílica/fibras de sisal, e borracha nitrílica/carbonato de cálcio/fibras de sisal foi investigada. Os compósitos, com fibras curtas aleatoriamente distribuídas, foram processados em moinho de dois rolos e caracterizados através de ensaios mecânicos de resistência à tração, microscopia eletrônica de varredura (MEV, análise por termogravimetria (TG e calorimetria exploratória diferencial (DSC. O tratamento de mercerização das fibras levou a uma maior adesão na interface fibra/matriz. O uso combinado de 67 pcr de carbonato com 33 pcr de fibras de sisal mercerizadas produziu um compósito com aumento significativo no módulo de elasticidade e sem perda da resistência à tração de ruptura. Os resultados da análise térmica mostraram que os compósitos são termicamente estáveis até cerca de 300 °C. Os materiais obtidos possuem uma boa relação custo/benefício tornando promissora sua utilização.In this work, composites were produced with nitrile rubber and sisal fibers, and nitrile rubber with calcium carbonate and sisal fibers. The composites were processed on a two-roll mixing mill and their properties were investigated with regard to the influence of chemical treatments of the fibers. The composites, with short fibers randomly distributed, were characterized by mechanical analysis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC. Mercerization treatment of the fibers promoted increasing the adhesion between the fiber and the rubber matrix. The composites of nitrile rubber with 67 pcr of calcium carbonate and 33 pcr of mercerized sisal fibers showed the best mechanical properties. Thermal analysis demonstrated that the composites are thermally stable up to 300 °C. The materials developed have a good cost/benefit relationship making their utilization

  19. Características físico-química, energética e dimensões das fibras de três espécies florestais do semiárido brasileiro

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Juarez Benigno Paes

    Full Text Available Esta pesquisa teve como objetivo avaliar as características físico-química, energética e dimensões das fibras das madeiras de angico-vermelho (Anadenanthera colubrina var. cebil, jurema-preta (Mimosa tenuiflora e jurema-vermelha (Mimosa arenosa, espécies de ocorrência no Semiárido Brasileiro e empregadas para energia. Para tanto, foram colhidas cinco árvores de cada espécie estudada. A caracterização física foi realizada no Laboratório de Tecnologia de Produtos Florestais (LTPF da Universidade Federal de Campina Grande e a caracterização química e a análise das dimensões das fibras no Laboratório de Papel e Celulose da Universidade Federal de Viçosa. De modo geral, as madeiras ensaiadas tiveram características físicas e dimensões das fibras semelhantes. Quanto às características químicas, a jurema-preta teve maior solubilidade em álcool:tolueno, maior teor de lignina total e menores teores de holocelulose e cinzas do que as demais espécies, tendo três vezes menos cinzas do que a madeira de angico-vermelho e a metade do apresentado pela jurema-vermelha.

  20. Desenvolvimento e fabrico de compósitos de matriz polimérica com fibras naturais

    OpenAIRE

    Pereira, Júlio Miguel da Cruz Rodrigues

    2017-01-01

    Os compósitos de matriz polimérica com fibras curtas têm propriedades que se têm vindo a relevar como extremamente interessantes para uma ampla variedade de aplicações. Presentemente são fabricados, com recurso a diversas técnicas de processamento, desde componentes específicos para aplicação aeroespacial até artefactos de grande difusão. Estão na agenda mundial, os problemas com a poluição de materiais de origem plástica que fazem uso do petróleo como matéria-prima, a biodegradação destes...

  1. Combination Treatment of C16 Peptide and Angiopoietin-1 Alleviates Neuromyelitis Optica in an Experimental Model

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Yuanyuan Zhang

    2018-01-01

    Full Text Available Neuromyelitis optica (NMO is an autoimmune inflammatory demyelinating disease that mainly affects the spinal cord and optic nerve, causing blindness and paralysis in some individuals. Moreover, NMO may cause secondary complement-dependent cytotoxicity (CDC, leading to oligodendrocyte and neuronal damage. In this study, a rodent NMO model, showing typical NMO pathogenesis, was induced with NMO-IgG from patient serum and human complement. We then tested whether the combination of C16, an αvβ3 integrin-binding peptide, and angiopoietin-1 (Ang1, a member of the endothelial growth factor family, could alleviate NMO in the model. Our results demonstrated that this combination therapy significantly decreased disease severity, inflammatory cell infiltration, secondary demyelination, and axonal loss, thus reducing neural death. In conclusion, our study suggests a possible treatment that can relieve progressive blindness and paralysis in an animal model of NMO through improvement of the inflammatory milieu.

  2. MOG-IgG-Associated Optic Neuritis, Encephalitis, and Myelitis: Lessons Learned From Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder

    Science.gov (United States)

    dos Passos, Giordani Rodrigues; Oliveira, Luana Michelli; da Costa, Bruna Klein; Apostolos-Pereira, Samira Luisa; Callegaro, Dagoberto; Fujihara, Kazuo; Sato, Douglas Kazutoshi

    2018-01-01

    Antibodies against myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG-IgG) have been found in some cases diagnosed as seronegative neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD). MOG-IgG allowed the identification of a subgroup with a clinical course distinct from that of NMOSD patients who are seropositive for aquaporin-4-IgG antibodies. MOG-IgG is associated with a wider clinical phenotype, not limited to NMOSD, with the majority of cases presenting with optic neuritis (ON), encephalitis with brain demyelinating lesions, and/or myelitis. Therefore, we propose the term MOG-IgG-associated Optic Neuritis, Encephalitis, and Myelitis (MONEM). Depending on the clinical characteristics, these patients may currently be diagnosed with NMOSD, acute disseminated encephalomyelitis, pediatric multiple sclerosis, transverse myelitis, or ON. With specific cell-based assays, MOG-IgG is emerging as a potential biomarker of inflammatory disorders of the central nervous system. We review the growing body of evidence on MONEM, focusing on its clinical aspects. PMID:29670575

  3. A case of seropositive Neuromyelitis Optica in a paediatric patient with co-existing acute nephrotic syndrome.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Volkman, Thomas; Hemingway, Cheryl

    2017-11-01

    Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) and NMO spectrum disorder (NMOSD) is a rare relapsing autoimmune disease of the central nervous system constituting less than 1% of demyelinating diseases (Jeffery and Buncic, 1996). It preferentially affects the optic nerves and spinal cord, with the brain parenchyma generally spared. Demyelinating lesions are characterised by longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis (LETM) and often longitudinally extensive optic neuritis. Following the discovery of a novel pathogenic antibody, Aquaporin 4 in 2004 (Lennon et al., 2004) this disease has been seen as a separate entity from Multiple Sclerosis (MS). We report the case of a severe AQP4 IgG case of NMO in a 10 year old child. This case unusually had a coexisting diagnosis of acute nephrotic syndrome which has only been reported once previously in the literature 2 . This article will examine some of the treatment challenges and the spectrum of co-existing autoimmune disease in NMOSD. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier B.V.

  4. Carboidratos das fibras de cotilédones e proteínas de produtos derivados de soja (Glycine max (L. Merril Carbohydrates from cotyledon fibers and proteins of soybean (Glycine max (L. Merril derivatives

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Neusa Fátima Seibel

    2008-09-01

    Full Text Available Fibras alimentares obtidas de cotilédones de soja original (FAO e micronizada (FAM foram fracionadas e avaliadas quanto a polissacarídeos e monossacarídeos constituintes. O componente majoritário foi a hemicelulose, totalizando 59% em FAO e 51% na FAM, a pectina representou em média 14% e a celulose 8,5%. As duas amostras de fibras apresentaram 17 mg.g-1 de ácidos urônicos e a mesma composição de monossacarídeos, sendo galactose, glicose e arabinose/ramnose os principais componentes. As proteínas de concentrado protéico, farinha desengordurada e fibras alimentares (FAO e FAM foram avaliadas quanto à solubilidade em diferentes solventes (NaCl, água, etanol e NaOH e quanto ao peso molecular. A farinha desengordurada de soja teve a maior parte das proteínas passível de extração com solução salina, e o concentrado protéico e as fibras de cotilédones com solução alcalina. A fração protéica que não foi extraída com nenhum dos quatro solventes utilizados permaneceu no resíduo, o maior percentual estava no concentrado, seguido pela fibra alimentar micronizada e a farinha, já a menor quantidade estava na fibra alimentar original. A eletroforese das proteínas dos quatro ingredientes alimentares mostrou as subunidades que constituem as frações β-conglicinina e glicinina. Bandas com peso molecular próximo aos 30 kDa foram reveladas nas proteínas extraídas das fibras de cotilédones de soja, sendo provavelmente glicoproteínas de parede celular, ricas em hidroxiprolina.Dietary fibers from soybean cotyledons classified as original (ODF and milled (MDF were fractionated and evaluated as to fractions and monosaccharide composition. The major constituent was hemicellulose, 59% in ODF and 51% MDF, pectin was in average 14% and cellulose, 8.5%. Both samples had 17 mg.g-1 uronic acids and the same composition in monosaccharides: galactose, glucose and arabinose/rhamnose, after hydrolysis. Protein fractions extracted from

  5. Avaliação da atividade antifúngica de extratos de gengibre e eucalipto in vitro e em fibras de bananeira infectadas com Helminthosporium sp - DOI: 10.4025/actasciagron.v28i1.1696

    OpenAIRE

    Rodrigues, Edvirgem; UEM; Schwan-Estrada, Kátia Regina Freitas; Universidade Estadual de Maringá, Centro de Ciências Agrárias, Agronomia; Stangarlin, José Renato; UNIOESTE; Cruz, Maria Eugenia Silva; UEM; Fiori-Tutida, Ana Cristina Grade; UEM

    2008-01-01

    O presente trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar a fungitoxicidade dos extratos brutos aquosos (EBA) de gengibre (Zingiber officinalis) e eucalipto (Corymbia citriodora) sobre o fungo Helminthosporium sp. Este patógeno foi identificado nas fibras do pseudocaule da bananeira, as quais são utilizadas na fabricação de artesanato local. Foram avaliados o crescimento micelial e esporulação do fungo in vitro, além do crescimento da colônia fúngica nas fibras tratadas com os extratos das plantas. As f...

  6. Obtenção de cerâmicas ferroelétricas de Gd2Mo3O12 e o puxamento de fibras monocristalinas

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Ferrari C. R.

    2001-01-01

    Full Text Available Nesse trabalho abordamos a obtenção do material cerâmico Gd2Mo3O12 na sua fase beta, denominado beta-GMO, utilizando-se do método convencional de mistura de óxidos e reação do estado sólido. MoO3 e o Gd2O3 nas razões molares 3:1 e 3,25:1 foram usados como pós de partida. Cerâmicas sinterizadas foram usadas como pedestais e sementes na produção de fibras monocristalinas pela técnica Laser Heated Pedestal Growth- LHPG. A cerâmica com fase única Gd2Mo3O12 foi melhor obtida usando a razão molar 3:1 entre os pós de partida. Por outro lado, fibras cristalinas obtidas a partir de pedestais cerâmicos com excesso de MoO3 apresentaram melhor qualidade óptica e a estequiometria desejada.

  7. Investigação numérica do desempenho de um sensor de fibra ótica de índice de refração, baseado em SPR e utilizando COMSOL multiphysics

    OpenAIRE

    Santos, Diego Felipe de Nóbrega dos

    2013-01-01

    Esta tese é dedicada aos sensores de fibra ótica especificamente aos sensores baseados no fenómeno de ressonância de plasmão de superfície, SPR (Surface Plasmon Resonance), gerados em fibras óticas com configuração do tipo “D”, para aplicação em sensores refratométricos. Numa primeira parte desta dissertação são descritos os aspetos teóricos fundamentais para a compreensão dos fenómenos de ressonância de plasmões de superfície e a sua utilização em sistemas sensores. Estes f...

  8. Cognitive impairment in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders: A comparison of the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale-III and the Wechsler Memory Scale Revised with the Rao Brief Repeatable Neuropsychological Battery

    OpenAIRE

    Fujimori, Juichi; Nakashima, Ichiro; Baba, Toru; Meguro, Yuko; Ogawa, Ryo; Fujihara, Kazuo

    2017-01-01

    Background: Approximately 55% of patients with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) show cognitive impairment as evaluated using the Rao Brief Repeatable Neuropsychological Battery (BRBN), but this frequency appears to be higher than the frequency of specific brain lesions in NMOSD. Objective: We studied whether cognitive impairment could be observed in NMOSD patients with no or minor non-specific brain lesions. Methods: We evaluated cognitive function in 12 NMOSD and 14 MS patients...

  9. Degradación de los módulos elásticos transversal y de cortadura en materiales compuestos con refuerzo de fibra continua de carbono sometidos a fatiga

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Revuelta, D.

    2004-04-01

    Full Text Available Fatigue failure in continuous fiber composite materials is caused in first place by matrix cracks that propagate along the fiber direction. It is expected that the defined crack orientation produced an anisotropic degradation of the laminate elastic properties. This work characterizes the degradation suffered by the transverse elastic modulus of a graphite-epoxy laminate subjected to fatigue loads, concluding that the elastic modulus changes drastically from a determined damage threshold, decaying according to a quadratic law.

    La rotura a fatiga en materiales compuestos con refuerzo de fibra continua es debida en primera instancia a la aparición de grietas en la matriz que se propagan en la dirección paralela a la fibra. Es de esperar que la orientación definida de estas grietas produzca una degradación anisótropa de las propiedades elásticas de la lámina. Este trabajo caracteriza la degradación que experimenta el módulo elástico en la dirección perpendicular a la fibra de un material compuesto grafito-epoxi sometido a cargas de fatiga, hallándose que el módulo elástico sufre cambios drásticos a partir de un determinado umbral de daño, y decayendo a partir de ese punto según una ley cuadrática.

  10. Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 is associated with disease status in patients with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders in south China.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Shan, Yilong; Tan, Sha; Zhang, Lei; Huang, Jianhua; Sun, Xiaobo; Wang, Yuge; Cai, Wei; Qiu, Wei; Hu, Xueqiang; Lu, Zhengqi

    2016-10-15

    Here, we investigated the relationship between serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D 3 (25[OH]D 3 ) levels and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD). Patients with NMOSD had lower 25(OH)D 3 levels than healthy people, with lower levels in patients in the acute phase than those in remission. An inverse correlation was found between 25(OH)D 3 and Expanded Disability Status Scale scores of patients during attacks. Higher serum 25(OH)D 3 levels were associated with greater amelioration of symptoms during corticosteroid therapy. These results indicate that decreased vitamin D may be involved in NMOSD pathogenesis, and that 25(OH)D 3 serum levels may reflect the severity of NMOSD in the acute phase. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  11. Comparative molecular dynamics study of neuromyelitis optica-immunoglobulin G binding to aquaporin-4 extracellular domains.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Alberga, Domenico; Trisciuzzi, Daniela; Lattanzi, Gianluca; Bennett, Jeffrey L; Verkman, Alan S; Mangiatordi, Giuseppe Felice; Nicolotti, Orazio

    2017-08-01

    Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) is an inflammatory demyelinating disease of the central nervous system in which most patients have serum autoantibodies (called NMO-IgG) that bind to astrocyte water channel aquaporin-4 (AQP4). A potential therapeutic strategy in NMO is to block the interaction of NMO-IgG with AQP4. Building on recent observation that some single-point and compound mutations of the AQP4 extracellular loop C prevent NMO-IgG binding, we carried out comparative Molecular Dynamics (MD) investigations on three AQP4 mutants, TP 137-138 AA, N 153 Q and V 150 G, whose 295-ns long trajectories were compared to that of wild type human AQP4. A robust conclusion of our modeling is that loop C mutations affect the conformation of neighboring extracellular loop A, thereby interfering with NMO-IgG binding. Analysis of individual mutations suggested specific hydrogen bonding and other molecular interactions involved in AQP4-IgG binding to AQP4. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  12. Caracterización de morteros de yeso reforzados con fibras recuperadas de eslingas textiles de un solo uso.

    OpenAIRE

    Tasán Cruz, Dany Marcelo

    2012-01-01

    Este trabajo estudia el comportamiento de conglomerantes a base de yeso agregados con Residuos de Construcción y demolición (RCD) como fibras recuperadas de eslingas textiles de un solo uso, incorporadas en tres porcentajes y comparando con una muestra de referencia.Las eslingas textiles de un solo uso, tienen como origen, dos obras situadas en la Comunidad de Madrid (Centro de Neurociencias Ramón y Cajal) y la Comunidad de Castilla la Mancha (Nuevo Hospital de Cuenca). Han sido estudiadas...

  13. Serological markers associated with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders in South India

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Lekha Pandit

    2016-01-01

    Full Text Available Background: Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSDs represent 20% of all demyelinating disorders in South India. No studies have determined the seroprevalence to both antibodies against aquaporin-4FNx01 and antimyelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody (anti-MOG+ in this population. Objective: To identify and characterize seropositive patients for anti-aquaporin-4 antibody (anti-AQP4+ and anti-MOG+ in South India. Materials and Methods: We included 125 consecutive patients (15 children who were serologically characterized using live transfected cells to human M23-AQP4 or full-length MOG. Results: Among a total of 125 patients, 30.4% of patients were anti-AQP4+, 20% were anti-MOG+, and 49.6% were seronegative. No patient was positive for both. Anti-MOG+ patients represented 28.7% (25/87 of seronegative NMOSD. In comparison to anti-AQP4+ patients, anti-MOG+ patients were commonly male, had less frequent attacks and milder disability on expanded disability status score scale. Seronegative patients were also predominantly male, 36% (9/25 had monophasic longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis and disability was comparable with anti-AQP4+ patients. Lumbar cord involvement was common in anti-MOG+ and seronegatives, whereas anti-AQP4+ patients had more cervical lesions. Conclusion: Anti-AQP4+/anti-MOG + patients accounted for nearly half of the patients suspected of having NMOSD in South India, indicating that antibody testing may be useful on the management of subgroups with different prognosis.

  14. Estudio experimental del comportamiento a compresión de hormigones autocompactantes reforzados con fibras de acero = Experimental study of performance self-compacting concrete reinforced with steel fibers

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    J. L. Sánchez

    2015-09-01

    Full Text Available El hormigón autocompactante reforzado con fibras de acero presenta simultáneamente las ventajas de los hormigones autocompactantes y de los reforzados con fibras. Se consigue un material de altas prestaciones en cuanto a su colocación en obra, tenacidad y ductilidad. En este trabajo se ha estudiado el comportamiento mecánico de un hormigón autocompactante reforzado con fibras de acero. Se han realizado ensayos a compresión a distintas edades, así como ensayos no destructivos (medida de la velocidad de ultrasonidos e índice esclerométrico. Los resultados muestran la variación de la respuesta del hormigón con el tiempo, la diferencia existente con los hormigones tradicionales y la viabilidad del empleo de técnicas no destructivas para el control de este tipo de hormigones.Abstract Self-compacting steel fibers reinforced concrete simultaneously has the advantages of self-compacting concrete and reinforced with fibers. A material of high performance in their laying on site, toughness and ductility is achieved. This paper has studied the mechanical behavior of a self-compacting concrete reinforced with steel fibers. Have been made compression tests, as well as non-destructive testing (measuring the speed of ultrasound and sclerometer test. The results show the variation of the response of concrete with time, the difference with the traditional concrete and the feasibility of using non-destructive techniques for controlling this type of concrete.

  15. White matter atrophy and cognitive dysfunctions in neuromyelitis optica.

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Frederic Blanc

    Full Text Available Neuromyelitis optica (NMO is an inflammatory disease of central nervous system characterized by optic neuritis and longitudinally extensive acute transverse myelitis. NMO patients have cognitive dysfunctions but other clinical symptoms of brain origin are rare. In the present study, we aimed to investigate cognitive functions and brain volume in NMO. The study population consisted of 28 patients with NMO and 28 healthy control subjects matched for age, sex and educational level. We applied a French translation of the Brief Repeatable Battery (BRB-N to the NMO patients. Using SIENAx for global brain volume (Grey Matter, GM; White Matter, WM; and whole brain and VBM for focal brain volume (GM and WM, NMO patients and controls were compared. Voxel-level correlations between diminished brain concentration and cognitive performance for each tests were performed. Focal and global brain volume of NMO patients with and without cognitive impairment were also compared. Fifteen NMO patients (54% had cognitive impairment with memory, executive function, attention and speed of information processing deficits. Global and focal brain atrophy of WM but not Grey Matter (GM was found in the NMO patients group. The focal WM atrophy included the optic chiasm, pons, cerebellum, the corpus callosum and parts of the frontal, temporal and parietal lobes, including superior longitudinal fascicle. Visual memory, verbal memory, speed of information processing, short-term memory and executive functions were correlated to focal WM volumes. The comparison of patients with, to patients without cognitive impairment showed a clear decrease of global and focal WM, including brainstem, corticospinal tracts, corpus callosum but also superior and inferior longitudinal fascicles. Cognitive impairment in NMO patients is correlated to the decreased of global and focal WM volume of the brain. Further studies are needed to better understand the precise origin of cognitive impairment in

  16. Comparação do comportamento à flexão com restrições à deflexão de placas de compósitos de matriz polimérica epoxídica em função do tipo de fibra de reforço

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Morais Willy A. de

    2003-01-01

    Full Text Available Placas finas de compósitos de matriz polimérica epoxídica reforçada por fibras de vidro, carbono ou aramida, bem como placas de um compósito híbrido vidro-aramida, foram submetidas a ensaios de flexão. As condições de fixação dos corpos de prova foram tais que o ensaios foram realizados com deflexão restrita. Os resultados experimentais obtidos para a deflexão máxima dos compósitos puderam ser qualitativamente previstos usando-se o método de balanço de energia de Ritz. Os compósitos reforçados por fibras de carbono apresentaram os maiores valores de energia de iniciação e de força máxima, o que foi atribuído às altas propriedades intrínsecas das fibras. As propriedades específicas do compósito híbrido foram superiores às dos compósitos apenas com fibras de vidro ou fibras aramidas. Este efeito sinergístico indicou um projeto adequado na fabricação deste compósito. O modo de falha macroscópico de todos os compósitos foi semelhante. Na face frontal, a interação compósito - punção seguiu o comportamento previsto pela Lei de Hertz. Na face posterior, houve preferencialmente delaminação.

  17. USOS DE LA MORERA (Morus alba EN LA ALIMENTACIÓN DEL CONEJO. EL ROL DE LA FIBRA Y LA PROTEÍNA EN EL TRACTO DIGESTIVO

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    David Mora-Valverde

    2010-01-01

    Full Text Available El objetivo de este trabajo fue recopilar las principales características de la digestión del conejo, enfocándose en la digestibilidad de la fibra y la proteína de la dieta para valorar el potencial desempeño de un material con características como la morera. El sistema selectivo de fibra con el que cuenta este lagomorfo, le otorga una ventaja alimenticia especializada ya que excreta de manera eficiente los materiales de baja calidad. La composición bromatológica de la morera y su elevada digestibilidad la hacen muy promisoria para su incorporación en dietas de conejos, exigiendo la evaluación de ésta desde diversos niveles de inclusión, los cuales permitan definir márgenes de sostenibilidad que mejoren su uso en conejos. Se presenta información sobre el empleo de esta fuente en dietas para conejos.

  18. European ancestry predominates in neuromyelitis optica and multiple sclerosis patients from Brazil.

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Doralina Guimarães Brum

    Full Text Available BACKGROUND: Neuromyelitis optica (NMO is considered relatively more common in non-Whites, whereas multiple sclerosis (MS presents a high prevalence rate, particularly in Whites from Western countries populations. However, no study has used ancestry informative markers (AIMs to estimate the genetic ancestry contribution to NMO patients. METHODS: Twelve AIMs were selected based on the large allele frequency differences among European, African, and Amerindian populations, in order to investigate the genetic contribution of each ancestral group in 236 patients with MS and NMO, diagnosed using the McDonald and Wingerchuck criteria, respectively. All 128 MS patients were recruited at the Faculty of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto (MS-RP, Southeastern Brazil, as well as 108 healthy bone marrow donors considered as healthy controls. A total of 108 NMO patients were recruited from five Neurology centers from different Brazilian regions, including Ribeirão Preto (NMO-RP. PRINCIPAL FINDINGS: European ancestry contribution was higher in MS-RP than in NMO-RP (78.5% vs. 68.7% patients. In contrast, African ancestry estimates were higher in NMO-RP than in MS-RP (20.5% vs. 12.5% patients. Moreover, principal component analyses showed that groups of NMO patients from different Brazilian regions were clustered close to the European ancestral population. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings demonstrate that European genetic contribution predominates in NMO and MS patients from Brazil.

  19. The Immunology of Neuromyelitis Optica-Current Knowledge, Clinical Implications, Controversies and Future Perspectives.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Jasiak-Zatonska, Michalina; Kalinowska-Lyszczarz, Alicja; Michalak, Slawomir; Kozubski, Wojciech

    2016-03-02

    Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) is an autoimmune, demyelinating disorder of the central nervous system (CNS) with typical clinical manifestations of optic neuritis and acute transverse myelitis attacks. Previously believed to be a variant of multiple sclerosis (MS), it is now considered an independent disorder which needs to be differentiated from MS. The discovery of autoantibodies against aquaporin-4 (AQP4-IgGs) changed our understanding of NMO immunopathogenesis and revolutionized the diagnostic process. AQP4-IgG is currently regarded as a specific biomarker of NMO and NMO spectrum disorders (NMOsd) and a key factor in its pathogenesis. Nevertheless, AQP4-IgG seronegativity in 10%-25% of NMO patients suggests that there are several other factors involved in NMO immunopathogenesis, i.e., autoantibodies against aquaporin-1 (AQP1-Abs) and antibodies against myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG-IgGs). This manuscript reviews current knowledge about NMO immunopathogenesis, pointing out the controversial issues and showing potential directions for future research. Further efforts should be made to broaden our knowledge of NMO immunology which could have important implications for clinical practice, including the use of potential novel biomarkers to facilitate an early and accurate diagnosis, and modern treatment strategies improving long-term outcome of NMO patients.

  20. Caracterização mecânica de laminados cimentíceos esbeltos reforçados com fibras de sisal Mechanical characterization of cement-based thin-walled laminates reinforced with sisal fibre

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Paulo R. L. Lima

    2007-12-01

    Full Text Available Com a proibição progressiva do uso de fibras de asbesto na fabricação de laminados à base de cimento, novos produtos têm sido desenvolvidos para suprir esta demanda do setor construtivo. A utilização de fibras de sisal como substituto ao asbesto, além de ser uma proposta ecológica tem grande importância socioeconômica, pois agregará valor a um produto cultivado com sucesso no semi-árido nordestino. Produziram-se, neste trabalho, placas laminadas com matriz de argamassa reforçadas com fibras longas de sisal. Ensaios de flexão em três pontos foram realizados com o objetivo de se estudar a influência da adição de fibras (3%, do número de camadas (2 e 3, da orientação das camadas (0 e 90° e da pressão de moldagem (0 e 2 MPa sobre o comportamento à flexão dos laminados. Os resultados indicam que a adição de fibras de sisal aumentou, para todos os casos estudados, a capacidade de absorver energia, a resistência à flexão pós-fissuração e a deflexão última do material. Os laminados reforçados com 3% de fibras de sisal, distribuídas em três camadas ortogonais à direção do carregamento e submetidos à pressão de moldagem de 2 MPa, apresentaram o melhor comportamento mecânico.Because of hazards to human and animal health, the use of asbestos and its products is being prohibited all around the world and academic institutions and fibre cement producers have been engaged in intensive research to find asbestos-free cement products. The application of natural fibres such as sisal to replace asbestos fibres can bring economical and ecological benefits due to their availability, low cost, low consumption of energy and suitability to the semi-arid area of the Northeast of Brazil (where not many plants can grow. In this paper, cement-based laminates reinforced with continuous sisal fibre were produced. Three point bending tests were carried out to evaluate the influence of addition of fibre (3%, number of layers of

  1. Comportamento térmico e caracterização morfológica das fibras de mesocarpo e caroço do açaí (Euterpe oleracea Mart. Thermogravimetric evaluation of açaí fruit (Euterpe oleracea Mart. agro industry waste

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Maria Alice Martins

    2009-12-01

    Full Text Available A agroindústria do açaí gera uma grande quantidade de resíduos, constituída de caroços e fibras, o que é um grave problema ambiental e de saúde pública. O objetivo deste estudo foi estudar as fibras do mesocarpo e o caroço do fruto do açaí para sua utilização em materiais compósitos. As amostras foram caracterizadas usando análise por termogravimetria (TG/DTG em atmosferas inerte e oxidativa, microscopia eletrônica de varredura e microscopia óptica. As fibras apresentaram boa estabilidade térmica até 230 ºC e um processo de degradação em atmosfera inerte em três etapas. Em atmosfera oxidativa, as fibras apresentaram menor estabilidade térmica e uma mudança no processo de degradação de três para quatro etapas. os resultados da análise térmica do caroço mostraram um comportamento térmico similar ao da fibra. A microscopia mostrou que as fibras presentes no fruto do açaí recobrem o caroço e possuem morfologia irregular com a presença de células do parênquima na sua superfície. O comportamento térmico das fibras do açaí é semelhante ao de outras fibras vegetais já utilizadas industrialmente na área de compósitos poliméricos, o que abre novas e promissoras áreas para sua utilização.The açaí fruit agro industry produces a large amount of waste, mainly seeds and fibers, which is a serious environmental and public health problem. The aim of this work is to study the mesocarp fibers and the açaí fruit seed to use in composite materials. The samples have been characterized by using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA/DTG in inert and thermo-oxidative atmospheres, scanning electron and optical microscopy. The fibers have shown good stability until 230ºC and a threedegradation step process in inert atmosphere. In oxidative atmosphere, the fibers presented a decrease in thermal stability and a change in the decomposition process from three to four steps. For the seeds, a similar behavior was observed

  2. MR imaging findings of the corpus callosum region in the differentiation between multiple sclerosis and neuromyelitis optica

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Chen, Zhiye; Feng, Feng; Yang, Yang; Li, Jinfeng; Ma, Lin

    2012-01-01

    Purpose: To evaluate MR imaging findings in corpus callosum region for the discrimination between opticospinal multiple sclerosis (OSMS) and neuromyelitis optica (NMO). Materials and methods: Forty-two definite OSMS with seronegative NMO-IgG and 23 NMO with seropositive NMO-IgG, and 27 age-matched normal controls (NC) were recruited. Sagittal T2-FLAIR images with 2-mm slice thickness were obtained. Subcallosal dot-dash (SCDD) sign and subcallosal striations (SCS) sign were reviewed. Results: SCDD was more commonly detected in OSMS (28 of 42 patients) than in NMO (5 of 23 patients) (P 0.05). For comparing ROC analysis among SCDD, SCS, and SCDD + SCS for predicted probability through binary logistic regression analysis, SCDD + SCS had the largest area under ROC curve (0.777) than SCDD (0.725) and SCS (0.608). Conclusion: SCDD may be helpful in distinguishing OSMS from NMO. The regression equation may also be a simple and effective method of choice for the differentiation between OSMS and NMO.

  3. Desenvolvimento de um sensor de campo eletrico alternado com transmissão por fibra-optica

    OpenAIRE

    Swinka Filho, Vitoldo

    1996-01-01

    Orientador: Rene Robert Dissertação (mestrado) - Universidade Federal do Parana Resumo: Neste trabalho e mostrado o desenvolvimento de um sensor de campo elétrico que utiliza o principio da carga induzida por campo elétrico alternado em superfícies condutoras. O sensor e composto por duas semi-esferas de alumínio isoladas eletricamente e possui um circuito eletrônico incorporado alimentado por baterias, e um sistema de transmissão por fibraoptica ligado a uma unidade remota para leitura...

  4. Desenvolvimento de PVC reforçado com fibras de vidro longas para fabricação de produtos moldados Long glass fiber reinforcement of PVC molding compounds

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Leandro H. Grizzo

    2011-01-01

    Full Text Available Neste trabalho foi desenvolvido um método para reforçar PVC rígido com fibras de vidro longas através da incorporação pelo processo de recobrimento da fibra contínua com um composto de PVC plastificado. Posteriormente o filamento foi picotado para a formação de grânulos, com fibras de vidro já incorporadas, que foram misturados mecanicamente ao PVC rígido granulado para alimentação direta por moldagem. A moldagem por injeção direta foi realizada com sucesso não sendo necessário a compostagem prévia, o que foi considerado conveniente, pois reduziu as etapas de processamento da resina de PVC e que proporcionou, possivelmente, redução de custos, redução da degradação do comprimento médio das fibras de vidro e diminuição da possibilidade de degradação da resina de PVC. O reforçamento do PVC rígido com 20% em massa de fibras de vidro longas de comprimento inicial entre 13 e 14 mm resultou em adequadas propriedades mecânicas, bem superiores ao PVC rígido não reforçado. Os módulos (tração e flexão e a resistência ao impacto Charpy praticamente dobraram, mesmo com os compósitos apresentando grande quantidade de plastificante em sua formulação, que possibilita ao PVC ser utilizado em outras aplicações não antes possíveis como em peças técnicas de engenharia.In this paper, a method to reinforce rigid PVC with long glass fibers (LGF was developed through the incorporation of continuous glass fibers, as rovings, with plasticized vinyl matrix prepared by the wire coating technique. The plasticized vinyl rovings were pelletized. The pellets (13-14 mm were then blended to a granulated rigid PVC formulation and directly injection molded as testing specimens. The direct injection molding, eliminating the preliminary melt-compounding process, was achieved successfully, which was considered convenient because it reduced the number of processing steps, which allowed cutting expenses, reduced the deterioration of the

  5. Implementación de una aplicación de video-on-demand sobre redes de fibra óptica

    OpenAIRE

    Hontoria Arlandiz, Daniel

    2009-01-01

    El objetivo de este proyecto es la realización de transmisiones de contenidos multimedia de alta definición sobre redes de banda ancha, en principio, sobre redes de fibra óptica. Primeramente, se realiza un estudio teórico de los parámetros más importantes, a la hora de realizar las transmisiones de contenidos multimedia de alta definición, como pueden ser los parámetros temporales, la productividad y la fiabilidad. El cumplimiento de estos requisitos mínimos, los parámetros...

  6. Incremento de productividad en la producción de fibras acrílicas mediante la mejora de procesos.

    OpenAIRE

    Zabarburu Chuquizuta, Segundo Jose; Zabarburu Chuquizuta, Segundo Jose; Zabarburu Chuquizuta, Segundo Jose

    2012-01-01

    Vivimos en la época de la globalización, en donde no existen fronteras económicas, con mercados altamente competitivos, los cuales obligan a las empresas a realizar innovaciones tecnológicas, mejorar sus procesos, reducir sus costos y mejorar su calidad para lograr precisamente ser más competitivos. En este sentido la empresa Sudamericana de Fibras S.A. busca optimizar sus procesos y el uso de sus recursos. El siguiente trabajo de tesis está basado en la modificación de procesos que tra...

  7. Estudo do comportamento fotofísico de prepregs de fibra de vidro e resina fenólica.

    OpenAIRE

    Rogério da Silva Rosa

    2007-01-01

    O objetivo desse trabalho é a aplicação da Espectroscopia de Luminescência em modo estacionário para o estudo do processo de cura de pré-impregnados (prepregs) de fibra de vidro e resina fenólica, tratadas termicamente em três diferentes temperaturas 90, 120 e 150 C. O processo de cura dos prepregs também foi monitorado por Espectroscopia de absorção na região do Infravermelho com transformada de Fourier (FT-IR). Os espectros de luminescência dos prepregs mostram mudanças significativas atrib...

  8. Determinação da fibra alimentar insolúvel, solúvel e total de produtos derivados do milho Determination of insoluble, soluble, and total dietary fiber of corn products

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Maria da Graça Kolinski Callegaro

    2005-06-01

    Full Text Available A cultura do milho é de grande importância na agricultura brasileira, com ampla distribuição do norte ao sul do país. O milho pode ser uma fonte significativa de fibra, dependendo da forma como é utilizado na alimentação. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar os teores de fibra alimentar insolúvel (FAI, solúvel (FAS e total (FAT de produtos derivados do milho. Determinou-se também os teores de umidade, resíduo mineral fixo, extrato etéreo e proteína bruta das amostras analisadas. Trabalhou-se com amostras de canjica, pipoca, farinha fina, farinha média e farinha pré-cozida. O método utilizado na determinação de fibra foi o de Prosky et al. Entre os produtos analisados observou-se que a pipoca apresentou o maior teor de FAT (média de 12,15% e a canjica o menor (média de 2,39 %. Em relação às farinhas, a fina e a média apresentaram teores de fibra semelhantes, enquanto as amostras de farinha pré-cozida apresentaram um teor um pouco mais baixo. Em todos os produtos analisados, a FAI correspondeu a mais de 90% da fibra total. Quanto aos demais constituintes avaliados, encontrou-se, neste trabalho, valores de acordo com os já disponíveis na literatura.Corn crop is of great importance to Brazilian agriculture, ranging from the north to the south of the country. Corn can be an important source of fiber, depending on the way it is used as food. The objective of this work was to evaluate the content of insoluble (IDF, soluble (SDF, and total (TDF dietary fiber of corn-derived products. The content of moisture, ash, lipids, and crude protein were also determined in the samples. We have worked with "canjica", popcorn, and meal (finely ground, medium ground, and pre-cooked. The PROSKY'S enzymic-gravimetric method was used to determine dietary fiber. Among the products analyzed, we have observed that the popcorn showed the greatest content of TDF (12.15%, and the "canjica" showed the smallest one (2.39%. Thin and medium corn meals

  9. CFHR1-Modified Neural Stem Cells Ameliorated Brain Injury in a Mouse Model of Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorders.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Shi, Kaibin; Wang, Zhen; Liu, Yuanchu; Gong, Ye; Fu, Ying; Li, Shaowu; Wood, Kristofer; Hao, Junwei; Zhang, Guang-Xian; Shi, Fu-Dong; Yan, Yaping

    2016-11-01

    A major hurdle for effective stem cell therapy is ongoing inflammation in the target organ. Reconditioning the lesion microenvironment may be an effective way to promote stem cell therapy. In this study, we showed that engineered neural stem cells (NSCs) with complement factor H-related protein 1, a complement inhibitor protein, can attenuate inflammatory infiltration and immune-mediated damage of astrocytes, an important pathogenic progress in patients with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders. Furthermore, we demonstrated that transplantation of the complement factor H-related protein 1-modified NSCs effectively blocked the complement activation cascade and inhibited formation of the membrane attack complex, thus contributing to the protection of endogenous and transplanted NSC-differentiated astrocytes. Therefore, manipulation of the lesion microenvironment contributes to a more effective cell replacement therapeutic strategy for autoimmune diseases of the CNS. Copyright © 2016 by The American Association of Immunologists, Inc.

  10. Determinação dos índices de cristalinidade de fibras celulósicas Crystallinity index determination on cellulosic fibers

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Rose Marry Araújo Gondim Tomaz

    1994-01-01

    Full Text Available No presente estudo, foi avaliada a introdução de métodos de análises de micro-estrutura de fibras celulósicas. O algodão utilizado, proveniente das variedades IAC 17, IAC 19 e IAC 20, foi colhido em dez localidades do ensaio regional de variedades do Estado de São Paulo, no ano agrícola de 1985/86. Amostras de fibras de viscose, rami e rami tratado quimicamente com ácido clorídrico, também foram usadas, a fim de estabelecer uma relação entre os dois sistemas de determinação dos índices de cristalinidade. Utilizaram-se os métodos empíricos de difratometria de raios X e espectroscopia de infravermelho para as determinações dos índices de cristalinidade: o obtido por espectroscopia de infravermelho permitiu a diferenciação de variedades de algodoeiro IAC, enquanto o proposto por difratometria de raios X não possibilitou essa diferença. As propriedades físicas das fibras de variedades de algodoeiro IAC não se correlacionaram com os índices de cristalinidade obtidos nos dois processos. Os métodos usados para a determinação de tais índices foram altamente correlacionados (r = 0,95, empregando-se amostras de celulose com tratamento diferenciado.The purpose of this work was to develop analytical techniques for structural characterization of cellulosic fibers. To establish a relationship between the two methods that determine crystallinity index, three varieties of cotton (IAC 17, IAC 19, and IAC 20 and fibers of viscose, rami and rami chemical treated were used. Two empirical methods, x-ray diffraction and infrared spectroscopy, were used to evaluate the crystallinity index. Differentiation of IAC cotton varieties was possible with the crystallinity index obtained by infrared spectroscopy; but, not with the x-ray diffraction method. The crystallinity index obtained by these two methods had no correlation with physical properties of cotton fibers. When cellulose fibers with different treatment were assayed, there was a

  11. Compósitos de HDPE com resíduos de fibras têxteis. Parte I: caracterização mecânica HDPE composites with textile fibers waste. Part I: mechanical characterization

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Maira Finkler

    2005-07-01

    Full Text Available Neste trabalho são apresentados e discutidos os resultados das propriedades mecânicas de novos materiais compósitos preparados com resíduos de fibras têxteis poliméricas e de polímeros commodities. As fibras naturais oferecem vantagens sobre as sintéticas, em termos de propriedades mecânicas e térmicas. Os compósitos foram preparados a partir da mistura de polietileno de alta densidade (HDPE e resíduos de fibras têxteis (50% algodão /50% acrílico em teores crescentes de 10 a 40%, em um misturador de alta velocidade, utilizando Surlyn 2601, Polybond 3009 e Polybond 1009 como agentes compatibilizantes. Corpos-de-prova para ensaios de tração, flexão e impacto foram produzidos a partir de chapas obtidas em uma prensa hidráulica. Os compósitos que utilizaram agentes compatibilizantes apresentaram os melhores resultados de resistência à tração e à flexão, principalmente com 5% do agente Polybond 3009 e 20 a 40% de resíduos de fibras têxteis.In this work, results of mechanical properties of new composites based on textile fiber residues from clothing industry and commodity polymers are discussed. Natural fibers offer some advantages over synthetic ones, regarding mechanical and thermal properties. The composites were produced by mixing high density polyethylene with the textile fibers (50% cotton /50% acrylic in increasing contents, from 10 to 40% in a thermokinetic mixer, using Surlyn 2601, Polybond 3009 and Polybond 1009 as coupling agents. The tensile, flexural and impact samples were produced by cutting sheets obtained in a hydraulic press. The composites with coupling agents showed good results of tensile and flexural strength, mainly with 5% of Polybond 3009 and 20-40% of textile fiber residues.

  12. Diagnosis of neuromyelitis optica (NMO) spectrum disorders: is MRI obsolete?

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Downer, Jonathan James; Carter, Ranjana; Kueker, Wilhelm; Quaghebeur, Gerardine; Leite, Maria Isabel; Palace, Jacqueline

    2012-01-01

    Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) is a severe demyelinating disease that preferentially involves spinal cord and optic nerve. It is part of a spectrum of neurological conditions associated with antibodies to aquaporin-4 (AQP4). This study investigates the role of MRI where novel, more sensitive AQP4 antibody immunoassay techniques are being used. Retrospective review of neuroimaging in 69 patients (25 antibody positive, 44 antibody negative), investigated in the context of suspected NMO or NMO spectrum disorder, was performed independently by two consultant neuroradiologists. Longitudinally extensive, central spinal cord lesions were more frequent in AQP4 positive patients (95.2% vs 35.5%, p < 0.0001; 85.7% vs 45.2%, p = 0.015). Multiple sclerosis diagnostic criteria were less frequently fulfilled on brain MRI in antibody positive patients (5.6% vs 33.3%, p = 0.035). Juxtacortical and corpus callosal lesions were also less common in this group (16.7% vs 46.7%, p = 0.063; 5.6% vs 46.7%, p = 0.0034). Hypothalamic and periependymal disease related to the aqueduct was not seen in antibody negative patients. T1 hypointensity was more common in cord lesions of antibody positive patients (75.0% vs 35.3%, p = 0.037). However, this characteristic did not discriminate antibody positive and negative longitudinally extensive cord lesions (73.3% vs 62.5%, p = 0.66). The NMO spectrum of diseases are among an increasing number of neurological conditions defined by serological tests. However, despite improved immunoassay techniques, MRI of the brain and spinal cord continues to be among the first-line investigations in these patients, providing valuable diagnostic information that will help guide patient management. (orig.)

  13. Gender differences among Chinese patients with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Sun, Hui; Sun, Xuan; Li, Jie; Huo, Yunyun; Wu, Lei; Huang, Dehui; Yu, Shengyuan; Wu, Weiping

    2017-10-01

    Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSD) are autoimmune, inflammatory demyelinating diseases of the central nervous system, which have established variations in prevalence across different ethnicities and genders. The objective of this study was to investigate differences in clinical features among men and women with NMOSD, according to the 2015 diagnostic criteria. A total of 97 patients with NMOSD were recruited from inpatient neurology clinics in this retrospective study. Demographic and clinical data were extracted from the various databases. Data on epidemiology, clinical signs, initial symptoms, and laboratory indices of men and women with NMOSD were compared. The cohort of this study had a female/male ratio of 5.47:1, with annualized relapse rates of 0.72 in female and 0.56 in male patients. Among female patients, 29.2% and 53.6% initially experienced acute optic neuritis and acute myelitis, respectively, while the prevalence of these symptoms was 46.6% and 53.3% among male patients. A total of 14.6% and 2.4% of female patients had area postrema symptoms and other brainstem signs, respectively on study enrollment. The prevalence of anti-AQP4-autoantibodies and anti-thyroid peroxidase autoantibodies/anti-thyroglobulin autoantibodies (TPO/TG-Ab) was significantly higher among women (77% and 45.7%) than among men (46.1% and 13.3%) (P < 0.05 for both comparisons). A total of 11 women with NMOSD (11.3% of the cohort) also had autoimmune diseases. Women with NMOSD have higher morbidity levels than men with this disease and are more likely to have autoimmune diseases and brainstem lesions, especially in the area postrema. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  14. Diagnosis of neuromyelitis optica (NMO) spectrum disorders: is MRI obsolete?

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Downer, Jonathan James; Carter, Ranjana; Kueker, Wilhelm; Quaghebeur, Gerardine [John Radcliffe Hospital, Department of Neuroradiology, Oxford (United Kingdom); Leite, Maria Isabel; Palace, Jacqueline [Oxford University, Department of Clinical Neurology, Oxford (United Kingdom)

    2012-04-15

    Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) is a severe demyelinating disease that preferentially involves spinal cord and optic nerve. It is part of a spectrum of neurological conditions associated with antibodies to aquaporin-4 (AQP4). This study investigates the role of MRI where novel, more sensitive AQP4 antibody immunoassay techniques are being used. Retrospective review of neuroimaging in 69 patients (25 antibody positive, 44 antibody negative), investigated in the context of suspected NMO or NMO spectrum disorder, was performed independently by two consultant neuroradiologists. Longitudinally extensive, central spinal cord lesions were more frequent in AQP4 positive patients (95.2% vs 35.5%, p < 0.0001; 85.7% vs 45.2%, p = 0.015). Multiple sclerosis diagnostic criteria were less frequently fulfilled on brain MRI in antibody positive patients (5.6% vs 33.3%, p = 0.035). Juxtacortical and corpus callosal lesions were also less common in this group (16.7% vs 46.7%, p = 0.063; 5.6% vs 46.7%, p = 0.0034). Hypothalamic and periependymal disease related to the aqueduct was not seen in antibody negative patients. T1 hypointensity was more common in cord lesions of antibody positive patients (75.0% vs 35.3%, p = 0.037). However, this characteristic did not discriminate antibody positive and negative longitudinally extensive cord lesions (73.3% vs 62.5%, p = 0.66). The NMO spectrum of diseases are among an increasing number of neurological conditions defined by serological tests. However, despite improved immunoassay techniques, MRI of the brain and spinal cord continues to be among the first-line investigations in these patients, providing valuable diagnostic information that will help guide patient management. (orig.)

  15. Sjögren syndrome and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder co-exist in a common autoimmune milieu

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Diogo C. Carvalho

    2014-06-01

    Full Text Available The relationship between Sjögren’s syndrome (SS and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD is not completely understood. We report two patients with both conditions and review 47 other previously reported cases meeting currently accepted diagnostic criteria, from 17 articles extracted from PubMed. Out of 44 patients whose gender was informed, 42 were females. Mean age at onset of neurological manifestation was 36.2 years (10-74. Serum anti-AQP4-IgG was positive in 32 patients, borderline in 1, and negative in 4. Our Case 1 was seronegative for AQP4-IgG and had no non-organ-specific autoantibodies other than anti-SSB antibodies. Our Case 2 had serum anti-AQP4, anti-SSA/SSB, anti-thyreoglobulin and anti-acethylcholine-receptor antibodies, as well as clinical hypothyreoidism, but no evidence of myasthenia gravis. Our Cases and others, as previously reported in literature, with similar heterogeneous autoimmune response to aquaporin-4, suggest that SS and NMO co-exist in a common autoimmune milieu which is not dependent on aquaporin-4 autoimmunity.

  16. Long-term MRI findings in neuromyelitis optica: seropositive versus seronegative patients.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Kıyat-Atamer, A; Ekizoğlu, E; Tüzün, E; Kürtüncü, M; Shugaiv, E; Akman-Demir, G; Eraksoy, M

    2013-05-01

    Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) is a severe demyelinating inflammatory disorder associated with serum antibodies against aquaporin 4 (AQP4-Ab). A significant number of patients with NMO remain seronegative over time. Long-term observational magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) studies of the CNS in patients with NMO are rare or of limited duration. The objective of this study is to determine long-term MRI characteristics of seropositive and seronegative patients, and assess possible overlap with multiple sclerosis (MS). Clinical and radiological characteristics of 28 patients with NMO at onset and of 17 patients after an average follow-up time of 9 years were recorded. Fifty percent of patients were seropositive for AQP4-Ab. Onset and final brain/spinal MRI scans were retrospectively analysed and compared. Significantly more patients in the seronegative group had brain lesions at onset. Spinal lesions of seropositive patients were longer and showed increased cord swelling at onset MRI scans. After the follow-up time the differences between both groups disappeared. Patients in the seropositive group tended to develop brain lesions over time. No patient fulfilled Barkhof's or McDonald's radiological criteria for MS at onset or over time. Brain MRI features show differences between seropositive and seronegative patients at time of onset in NMO, but differences between groups vanish over time. None of the AQP4-negative patients fulfill radiological MS criteria on a long-term basis, suggesting that seronegative NMO constitutes an independent entity. © 2012 The Author(s) European Journal of Neurology © 2012 EFNS.

  17. Neuromyelitis optica IgG stimulates an immunological response in rat astrocyte cultures.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Howe, Charles L; Kaptzan, Tatiana; Magaña, Setty M; Ayers-Ringler, Jennifer R; LaFrance-Corey, Reghann G; Lucchinetti, Claudia F

    2014-05-01

    Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) is a primary astrocyte disease associated with central nervous system inflammation, demyelination, and tissue injury. Brain lesions are frequently observed in regions enriched in expression of the aquaporin-4 (AQP4) water channel, an antigenic target of the NMO IgG serologic marker. Based on observations of disease reversibility and careful characterization of NMO lesion development, we propose that the NMO IgG may induce a dynamic immunological response in astrocytes. Using primary rat astrocyte-enriched cultures and treatment with NMO patient-derived serum or purified IgG, we observed a robust pattern of gene expression changes consistent with the induction of a reactive and inflammatory phenotype in astrocytes. The reactive astrocyte factor lipocalin-2 and a broad spectrum of chemokines, cytokines, and stress response factors were induced by either NMO patient serum or purified IgG. Treatment with IgG from healthy controls had no effect. The effect is disease-specific, as serum from patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis, Sjögren's, or systemic lupus erythematosus did not induce a response in the cultures. We hypothesize that binding of the NMO IgG to AQP4 induces a cellular response that results in transcriptional and translational events within the astrocyte that are consistent with a reactive and inflammatory phenotype. Strategies aimed at reducing the inflammatory response of astrocytes may short circuit an amplification loop associated with NMO lesion development. Copyright © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  18. Estudio y desarrollo de sensores de fibra óptica para detección de vibraciones en ductos ascendentes submarinos

    OpenAIRE

    Salgado Díaz, Pedro

    2014-01-01

    En esta tesis doctoral se describe el trabajo de investigación enfocado al estudio y desarrollo de sensores de fibra óptica para la detección de presión, flujo y vibraciones en ductos ascendentes submarinos utilizados en la extracción y transporte de hidrocarburos, con el objetivo de aplicarlos en los campos de explotación de aguas profundas en el Golfo de México pertenecientes a la Industria Petrolera Mexicana. El trabajo se ha enfocado al estudio y desarrollo de sensores ópticos cuasi distr...

  19. Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder: 2-deoxy-2-[18F]fluoro-D-glucose positron emission tomography findings--case report.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Oyama, Hirofumi; Miwa, Shigeru; Noda, Tomoyuki; Sobajima, Atsuhiro; Kito, Akira; Maki, Hideki; Hattori, Kenichi; Wada, Kentaro

    2012-01-01

    A 51-year-old female with a history of rheumatoid arthritis rapidly developed anterior neck pain and paresis in the left upper and lower extremities and right lower extremity, sensory disturbance in the left upper and lower extremities, and bladder and rectal disorder. Adduction of the left eye and abduction of the right eye were also disturbed. Spinal magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated severe edema in the C1-T5 levels, which then deteriorated rapidly over 3 days, and lesions enhanced with gadolinium in the C1-C3 and C5-T3 levels. 2-Deoxy-2-[18F]fluoro-D-glucose positron emission tomography study demonstrated the inflammatory sites as segmental enhanced accumulation in the C1-C3, C5-C6, and T1 levels. The serum anti-aquaporin 4 antibody level was positive and she was diagnosed with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder. Marked improvement in the neurological conditions, concomitant with reduced spinal cord edema, was obtained by steroid pulse therapy.

  20. Análisis de crecimiento y determinación del contenido de fibra de la vaina de cuatro genotipos de habichuela

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Sánchez J. C.

    2005-09-01

    Full Text Available Se evaluaron en campo cuatro genotipos de habichuela (G9069, G10165, G18722 y la variedad comercial Milenio con el fin de establecer las diferencias en el contenido de fibra (método de campo y análisis químico de la fibra y desarrollar el análisis del crecimiento. Con excepción del genotipo 10165 no se observaron diferencias significativas en el contenido de cenizas entre genotipos ni entre muestreos. Durante la tercera semana post-antesis, se alcanzó correlación negativa altamente significativa entre la longitud de la telilla y la fibra detergente neutra (R= – 0.80; R2 = 0.64. Este resultado confiere validez al método clásico de campo para estimar la fibrosidad y la época de cosecha de la vaina. De acuerdo con los resultados del análisis de crecimiento de cada genotipo, es posible estimar tanto la época ideal para la cosecha como la época crítica para la realización de las labores agronómicas. Los genotipos G9069 y G18722 registraron las mejores características para el mercado colombiano en fresco. Abstract Growth analysis and fiber determination in four genotypes of snap bean. In order to establish genotypical differences in fiber content (field method and chemical fiber analysis and to carry out their growth analysis four snap beans genotypes (G9069, G10165, G18722 and Milenio, were evaluated in field conditions. No significative differences in ashes content and samplings (excepted genotype 10165 were found between the studied genotypes. During the third week after anthesis, highly significative negative correlation coefficient was found between ripped cuticle and NDF (R= – 0.80; R2 = 0.64. This result confirms the validity of the classical method of fiber determination and harvest season of pods in field conditions. According growth analysis results of each genotype, it is possible to estimate the best time for pod harvesting and the critical interval for carry out agronomical practices. Genotypes G9069 y

  1. CARACTERIZACIÓN FÍSICO-MECÁNICA DE UN ALMIDÓN TERMOPLÁSTICO (TPS DE YUCA Y ANÁLISIS INTERFACIAL CON FIBRAS DE FIQUE CARACTERIZAÇÃO FÍSICO-MECÂNICO DE UM AMIDO TERMOPLÁSTICO (TPS DE MANDIOCA E ANÁLISE INTERFACIAL DE FIBRAS DE FIQUE PHYSICO-MECHANICAL CHARACTERIZATION OF THERMOPLASTIC CASSAVA STARCH (TPS AND INTERFACIAL ANALYSIS WITH FIQUE FIBERS

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    JOSE H. MINA H.

    2012-12-01

    Full Text Available Con el fin de estimar la factibilidad de reforzar una matriz de almidón termoplástico (TPS con fibras de Fique, se efectuaron pruebas de micro-mecánica mediante la técnica de zafado de una fibra (pull-out. El TPS se obtuvo a partir de la plastificación, con glicerol, de un almidón nativo de yuca (Manihot sculenta Crantz, empleando un proceso de extrusión. Para estimar la resistencia cortante interfacial (RCI se utilizaron tanto fibras de Fique nativas como modificadas superficialmente, a partir de un tratamiento alcalino. Para la preparación de los especímenes de ensayo el TPS fue peletizado, molido y posteriormente conformado en forma de placas siguiendo un proceso de moldeo por compresión; el material fue acondicionado a 25°C y 54% de humedad relativa, antes de su caracterización físico-química y mecánica. Se encontró que el TPS presentó una absorción de humedad en el equilibrio del orden del 10.5% y resistencia máxima, módulo de elasticidad y deformación a tensión de 1.5 MPa, 42.5 MPa y 26%, respectivamente. Por otro lado, se llegó a que la resistencia cortante interfacial (RCI entre el TPS y las fibras aumentó con el tratamiento superficial del Fique, debiéndose esto al aumento de rugosidad alcanzado con la alcalinización.A fim de estimar-se a viabilidade de reforçar a matriz de amido termoplástico (TPS com fibras de Fique, foram testados usando técnica de micro-mecânico (pull-out. TPS foi obtido a partir de plastificação, com o glicerol, um amido nativo de mandioca (manihot sculenta Crantz utilizando um processo de extrusão. Para estimar a resistência ao cisalhamento interfacial (RCI foram utilizadas fibras nativas e fique superfície modificada, a partir de um tratamento alcalino. Para a preparação das amostras de teste TPS foi peletizado, moído e, em seguida, moldagem sob a forma de placas como um processo de moldagem por compressão, o material foi condicionado a 25°C e 54% umidade relativa HR, antes

  2. Medición de microdeformaciones en losas viales usando sensores de redes de Bragg en fibras ópticas

    OpenAIRE

    Vélez-Hoyos, Francisco Javier; Serpa-Imbet, Claudia Milena; Gómez-Cardona, Nelson Darío

    2010-01-01

    En este trabajo se presenta un método no invasivo para la medición de microdeformaciones en estructuras de concreto usando sensores de redes de Bragg en fibras ópticas adheridos a su superficie. Se realizan mediciones en losas viales de concreto bajo una carga estática de 10 kN, encontrándose una relación aproximada de 2 : 1 entre la deformación registrada por los sensores y los valores arrojados por una simulación computacional con el método de elementos finitos. Se propone el uso de estos s...

  3. Clinical characteristics of disabling attacks at onset in patients with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Seok, Jin Myoung; Cho, Eun Bin; Lee, Hye Lim; Cho, Hye-Jin; Min, Ju-Hong; Lee, Kwang Ho; Kim, Byoung Joon

    2016-09-15

    Individual attacks of neuromyelitis optica (NMO) are generally severe enough to cause disability even after the onset attack. We aimed to elucidate the clinical characteristics of disabling attacks at the onset of NMO. We investigated the clinical characteristics at onset and at first relapse in patients with NMO or NMO spectrum disorder with seropositive for the anti-aquaporin-4 antibody. A disabling attack at onset (DAO) was defined as an onset attack in which, at best recovery (allowing up to one year), patients were unable to walk without assistance or were left functionally blind in at least one affected eye. Fifty-seven patients were enrolled (53 females; onset age, 41.9±14.8years). Ten patients (17.5%) had a DAO; four had become unable to walk without assistance following myelitis, and six had severe visual impairment following optic neuritis despite rescue treatments. Attack severity at nadir was the only clinical factor predicting a DAO (odds ratio, 2.120; 95% CI, 1.162-3.869; P=0.014). The use of immunosuppressants delayed the interval to the first relapse (P=0.003). Our study showed characteristics of NMO onset attacks that caused severe disability. However, no clinically modifiable factors predicted disabling attacks, except attack severity. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  4. Cognitive dysfunction in adult patients with neuromyelitis optica: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Meng, Hao; Xu, Jun; Pan, Chenling; Cheng, Jiaxing; Hu, Yue; Hong, Yin; Shen, Yuehai; Dai, Hua

    2017-08-01

    The objective of this study was to investigate cognitive dysfunction in 24-60-year-old neuromyelitis optica (NMO) patients, demographically matched healthy subjects, and MS patients. We conducted a comprehensive literature review of the PubMed, Medline, EMBASE, CNKI, Wan Fang Date, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library databases from inception to May 2016 for case-control studies that reported cognitive test scores in NMO patients, healthy subjects, and MS patients. Outcome measures were cognitive function evaluations, including performance on attention, language, memory, information processing speed, and executive function tests. The meta-analysis included eight studies. NMO patients performed significantly worse on attention (P < 0.00001), language (P = 0.00008), memory (P = 0.00004), information processing speed (P < 0.00001), and executive function tests (P = 0.00009) than healthy subjects. There were no significant differences in performance between NMO patients and MS patients on these tests. This meta-analysis indicates that NMO patients aged 24-60 years have significantly worse cognitive performance than demographically matched healthy subjects. However, this was comparable to the performance of demographically matched MS patients. There is a need for further rigorous randomized controlled trials with focus on elucidating the underlying mechanism of cognitive dysfunction in NMO patients.

  5. Altered topological organization of white matter structural networks in patients with neuromyelitis optica.

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Yaou Liu

    Full Text Available OBJECTIVE: To investigate the topological alterations of the whole-brain white-matter (WM structural networks in patients with neuromyelitis optica (NMO. METHODS: The present study involved 26 NMO patients and 26 age- and sex-matched healthy controls. WM structural connectivity in each participant was imaged with diffusion-weighted MRI and represented in terms of a connectivity matrix using deterministic tractography method. Graph theory-based analyses were then performed for the characterization of brain network properties. A multiple linear regression analysis was performed on each network metric between the NMO and control groups. RESULTS: The NMO patients exhibited abnormal small-world network properties, as indicated by increased normalized characteristic path length, increased normalized clustering and increased small-worldness. Furthermore, largely similar hub distributions of the WM structural networks were observed between NMO patients and healthy controls. However, regional efficiency in several brain areas of NMO patients was significantly reduced, which were mainly distributed in the default-mode, sensorimotor and visual systems. Furthermore, we have observed increased regional efficiency in a few brain regions such as the orbital parts of the superior and middle frontal and fusiform gyri. CONCLUSION: Although the NMO patients in this study had no discernible white matter T2 lesions in the brain, we hypothesize that the disrupted topological organization of WM networks provides additional evidence for subtle, widespread cerebral WM pathology in NMO.

  6. Evaluation of Clinical Interest of Anti-Aquaporin-4 Autoantibody Followup in Neuromyelitis Optica

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Jean-Baptiste Chanson

    2013-01-01

    Full Text Available Neuromyelitis optica (NMO is an autoimmune disease in which a specific biomarker named NMO-IgG and directed against aquaporin-4 (AQP4 has been found. A correlation between disease activity and anti-AQP4 antibody (Ab serum concentration or complement-mediated cytotoxicity has been reported, but the usefulness of longitudinal evaluation of these parameters remains to be evaluated in actual clinical practice. Thirty serum samples from 10 NMO patients positive for NMO-IgG were collected from 2006 to 2011. Anti-AQP4 Ab serum concentration and complement-mediated cytotoxicity were measured by flow cytometry using two quantitative cell-based assays (CBA and compared with clinical parameters. We found a strong correlation between serum anti-AQP4 Ab concentration and complement-mediated cytotoxicity (P<0.0001. Nevertheless, neither relapse nor worsening of impairment level was closely associated with a significant increase in serum Ab concentration or cytotoxicity. These results suggest that complement-mediated serum cytotoxicity assessment does not provide extra insight compared to anti-AQP4 Ab serum concentration. Furthermore, none of these parameters appears closely related to disease activity and/or severity. Therefore, in clinical practice, serum anti-AQP4 reactivity seems not helpful as a predictive biomarker in the followup of NMO patients as a means of predicting the onset of a relapse and adapting the treatment accordingly.

  7. Complement-independent retinal pathology produced by intravitreal injection of neuromyelitis optica immunoglobulin G

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Christian M. Felix

    2016-10-01

    Full Text Available Abstract Background Neuromyelitis optica (NMO, an autoimmune inflammatory disease of the central nervous system, is often associated with retinal abnormalities including thinning of the retinal nerve fiber layer and microcystic changes. Here, we demonstrate that passive transfer of an anti-aquaporin-4 autoantibody (AQP4-IgG produces primary retinal pathology. Methods AQP4-IgG was delivered to adult rat retinas by intravitreal injection. Rat retinas and retinal explant cultures were assessed by immunofluorescence. Results Immunofluorescence showed AQP4-IgG deposition on retinal Müller cells, with greatly reduced AQP4 expression and increased glial fibrillary acidic protein by 5 days. There was mild retinal inflammation with microglial activation but little leukocyte infiltration and loss of retinal ganglion cells by 30 days with thinning of the ganglion cell complex. Interestingly, the loss of AQP4 was complement independent as seen in cobra venom factor-treated rats and in normal rats administered a mutated AQP4-IgG lacking complement effector function. Exposure of ex vivo retinal cultures to AQP4-IgG produced a marked reduction in AQP4 expression by 24 h, which was largely prevented by inhibitors of endocytosis or lysosomal acidification. Conclusions Passive transfer of AQP4-IgG results in primary, complement-independent retinal pathology, which might contribute to retinal abnormalities seen in NMO patients.

  8. Abnormal brain function in neuromyelitis optica: A fMRI investigation of mPASAT.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Wang, Fei; Liu, Yaou; Li, Jianjun; Sondag, Matthew; Law, Meng; Zee, Chi-Shing; Dong, Huiqing; Li, Kuncheng

    2017-10-01

    Cognitive impairment with the Neuromyelitis Optica (NMO) patients is debated. The present study is to study patterns of brain activation in NMO patients during a pair of task-related fMRI. We studied 20 patients with NMO and 20 control subjects matched for age, gender, education and handedness. All patients with NMO met the 2006 Wingerchuk diagnostic criteria. The fMRI paradigm included an auditory attention monitoring task and a modified version of the Paced Auditory Serial Addition Task (mPASAT). Both tasks were temporally and spatially balanced, with the exception of task difficulty. In mPASAT, Activation regions in control subjects included bilateral superior temporal gyri (BA22), left inferior frontal gyrus (BA45), bilateral inferior parietal lobule (BA7), left cingulate gyrus (BA32), left insula (BA13), and cerebellum. Activation regions in NMO patients included bilateral superior temporal gyri (BA22), left inferior frontal gyrus (BA9), right cingulate gyrus (BA32), right inferior parietal gyrus (BA40), left insula (BA13) and cerebellum. Some dispersed cognition related regions are greater in the patients. The present study showed altered cerebral activation during mPASAT in patients with NMO relative to healthy controls. These results are speculated to provide further evidence for brain plasticity in patients with NMO. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  9. STAT4 Polymorphisms are Associated with Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorders.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Shi, Ziyan; Zhang, Qin; Chen, Hongxi; Lian, Zhiyun; Liu, Ju; Feng, Huiru; Miao, Xiaohui; Du, Qin; Zhou, Hongyu

    2017-12-01

    STAT4 plays a crucial role in the functioning of the innate and adaptive immune cells and has been identified as a susceptibility gene in numerous autoimmune disorders. However, its association with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSD) remains uncertain. Here, we performed a case-control study to determine whether STAT4 contributed to the risk of NMOSD. We tested five STAT4 SNPs in 233 patients with established NMOSD and 492 healthy controls. Chi-square tests and logistic regression analyses were performed with four genetic models, including allelic, additive, dominant, and recessive models, to identify associations with NMOSD. The results of multiple test comparisons were corrected using the Benjamini and Hochberg false discovery rate (FDR-BH). After correcting for multiple test comparisons, the minor alleles of four STAT4 SNPs exhibited significant association with increased risk of NMOSD (rs7574865 T, odds ratio [OR] = 1.66, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.32-2.08, P corr  = 0.000; rs10181656 G, OR = 1.62, 95% CI 1.29-2.03, P corr  = 0.000; rs10168266 T, OR = 1.59, 95% CI 1.27-2.00, P corr  = 0.001; and rs13426947 A, OR = 1.51, 95% CI 1.21-1.90, P corr  = 0.004). Identical results were observed in the dominant, recessive, and additive models. In contrast, the G allele of rs7601754 displayed a protective effect against NMOSD (OR = 0.53, 95% CI 0.36-0.76, P corr  = 0.006). Our study indicates that STAT4 polymorphisms are associated with the risk of NMOSD, which provides novel insights into the underlying mechanisms of this disease.

  10. Caracterização mecânica e morfológica de compósitos de polipropileno e fibras de coco verde: influência do teor de fibra e das condições de mistura Mechanical and morphological characterization of polypropylene and green coconut fiber composites: influence of fiber content and mixture conditions

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Marina H. Ishizaki

    2006-01-01

    Full Text Available Compósitos de polipropileno com 10, 20 e 30% em volume de fibra de coco verde foram obtidos em câmara de mistura Haake, tendo como variáveis a temperatura de processamento e a velocidade de cisalhamento. O módulo de flexão e as características morfológicas dos diferentes compósitos obtidos foram avaliados e comparados com o polipropileno puro. Foi observado que a temperatura de 170 °C, a velocidade do rotor de 60rpm e o teor de fibra de coco verde de 30% forneceram o melhor desempenho quanto à flexão. Essas observações foram comprovadas pela análise da morfologia.Polypropylene composites containing 10, 20 and 30% in volume of green coconut fiber were prepared in a Haake chamber at various processing temperatures and shear rates. The flexural modulus and morphological characteristics of the composites were evaluated and compared with pure polypropylene. Optimization experiments indicated that a temperature of 170 °C, shear rate of 60rpm and green coconut fiber content of 30% showed the best properties by flexural modulus. These observations were confirmed by a morphology analysis.

  11. Cognitive impairment in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders: A comparison of the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale-III and the Wechsler Memory Scale Revised with the Rao Brief Repeatable Neuropsychological Battery

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Juichi Fujimori

    2017-12-01

    Full Text Available Background: Approximately 55% of patients with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD show cognitive impairment as evaluated using the Rao Brief Repeatable Neuropsychological Battery (BRBN, but this frequency appears to be higher than the frequency of specific brain lesions in NMOSD. Objective: We studied whether cognitive impairment could be observed in NMOSD patients with no or minor non-specific brain lesions. Methods: We evaluated cognitive function in 12 NMOSD and 14 MS patients using the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale-III (WAIS-III, the Wechsler Memory Scale-Revised (WMS-R, and the BRBN. We judged as cognitively impaired patients whose scores were below the average by 2 standard deviations or greater in 2 or more cognitive domains. Results: Cognitive impairment was observed in 5 MS patients (35.7% and in the only NMOSD patient (8.3% with symptomatic brain lesions, but not in the other NMOSD patients who had no or minor non-specific brain lesions. Meanwhile, 5 NMOSD (41.7% and 4 MS (28.6% patients who had normal cognition according to the WAIS-III and WMS-R were assessed as cognitively impaired by the BRBN (which is not standardized for age. Conclusions: Cognitive function in NMOSD patients with no or mild non-specific brain lesions was preserved according to the WAIS-III and WMS-R. Keywords: Neuromyelitis Optica, Cognitive impairment, Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale-III, Wechsler Memory Scale-Revised, Rao Brief Repeatable Neuropsychological Battery, Multiple sclerosis

  12. Interacción entre el aluminio fundido y las fibras de carbono recubiertas con cobre y níquel en materiales compuestos de matriz metálica

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Ureña, A.

    2004-04-01

    Full Text Available Aluminium Matrix Composites (AMC reinforced with carbon fiber (Cf show good mechanical properties and great capability of autolubrication. However, carbon fibers have poor wetting and react with molten aluminium producing aluminium carbide (Al4C3, that degrades the composite mechanical properties. In order to improve the wetting and to avoid the reaction between Cf and aluminium, the fibers have been coated with a thin layer of Cu and Ni, using an electroless process. AMC have been made using uncoated carbon fibers and Cu or Ni coated ones. The matrix-reinforcement interface has been analysed using SEM / EDX. Nanoindentation mechanical tests have been carried out to evaluate mechanical properties of the matrix-reinforcement interface.

    Los materiales compuestos de matriz de aluminio (AMC reforzados con fibra de C (Cf presentan unas buenas propiedades mecánicas y una gran capacidad de autolubricación. Sin embargo, las fibras de C tienen una pobre mojabilidad y reaccionan con el aluminio fundido formando Al4C3 en la intercara matriz-refuerzo, lo que provoca la degradación de las propiedades mecánicas del material. Para aumentar la mojabilidad y prevenir la reacción, se han recubierto las fibras con una fina capa de Cu o de Ni, utilizando el proceso de “electroless”. Se han fabricado AMC utilizando Cf sin recubrir y recubiertas de Cu o Ni. Se ha estudiado la intercara matriz-refuerzo mediante SEM / EDX y se han realizado ensayos mecánicos de nanoindentación para evaluar las propiedades mecánicas de la intercara matriz-refuerzo.

  13. Efeito da argila calcinada sobre a durabilidade de argamassas reforçadas com fibras curtas de sisal Effect of calcined clay on aging of sisal short fiber reinforced mortar

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    João de Farias Filho

    2010-10-01

    Full Text Available O interesse pelo uso de fibras vegetais como reforço de matrizes, à base de cimento, tem crescido em todo o mundo nos últimos anos, sendo limitado pela baixa durabilidade das fibras no meio alcalino. Com o tempo, as fibras podem mineralizar devido à migração de hidróxido de cálcio (CH da matriz para o lúmen e paredes das fibro-células. Procurou-se consumir, no presente estudo, o CH livre utilizando-se resíduo de tijolo moído e metacaulinita em substituição parcial, de 20 e 40% em peso, do cimento portland. Compósitos com fibras de sisal e matrizes cimento-pozolana foram submetidos a ensaios de resistência a flexão, após 28 dias de cura em água, 135 e 180 dias de envelhecimento natural e após 94 ciclos de molhagem e secagem. Os resultados indicaram que é possível consumir todo o CH da matriz, o que resultou na manutenção da tenacidade inicial do compósito e no aumento da sua resistência a flexão após exposição natural ou ciclos de molhagem e secagem.In the last few years a growing interest in the use of sisal fibers as reinforcement in cement based composites has been observed. However, the main concern for its use is related with the durability of the fibers in the alkaline water of concrete as they can mineralize due to the migration of calcium hydroxide to the fiber lumen and cell walls. In this study, the alkalinity of the matrix was reduced using metakaolin and crushed waste calcined clay bricks as cement replacement. The percentage of cement replacement ranged from 20 to 40% on weight basis. Flexural tests were carried out in the composites after 28 days of cure in water, 135 and 180 days of ageing in the open air and after 94 cycles of wetting and drying. These results indicated that the mixture with cement replacement consumed all calcium hydroxide and kept the toughness over time.

  14. Descenso de las propiedades mecánicas del pei reforzado con fibra de vidrio y carbono en ambientes químicos

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Viña, J.

    2000-08-01

    Full Text Available This work shows how the mechanical properties, tensile and shear strength, are modified in different way if two different types of composite materials are immersed in toluen and sulfuric acid. The composites have a thermoplastic as matrix and one of them is reinforced with glass fiber and the other with carbon fiber. Also the important influence of the temperature has been tested in the case of the acid and specimens with holes have been tested to know their influence.

    El presente trabajo muestra la diferente influencia que sobre las propiedades mecánicas, resistencias a tracción y cortadura, tiene la inmersión en dos agentes químicos, tales como, tolueno y ácido sulfúrico de dos tipos diferentes de materiales compuestos, uno reforzado con fibra de vidrio y otro con fibra de carbono. En ambos casos la matriz empleada es un termoplástico de altas prestaciones denominado PEI. En el caso del ataque con el ácido se ha podido, asimismo, contrastar la importante influencia de la temperatura en la disminución de las resistencias y por último, también se han ensayado, a tracción, probetas que contenían agujeros pasantes para, en este caso, descartar que el aumento de la superficie de ataque aumentaba éste.

  15. Static and cyclic performance of cementitious composites reinforced with glass-fibres; Rendimiento estático y cíclico de compuestos cementantes reforzados con fibras de vidrio

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Arabi, N.

    2018-04-01

    This paper concerns an experimental study of the influence of short glass-fibres randomly oriented of a reinforced cement-based composite on the mechanical behaviour. The matrix material parameters used are: cement/sand ratio and water/cement ratio fixed at 0.5; the glass-fibre content (0%, 0.5%, 1.0%, 1.5%, 2% and 2.5%) and fibre lengths (3, 6 and 12 mm). Composites mechanical characterisation under static behaviour at flexural and compression tests, shows that the reinforcement effect is beneficial only in flexural case. A synergy (matrix-reinforcement) was observed when fibre length of 12 mm is used with application rate of 2% in flexural. The fatigue behaviour determined by Wöhler plots (stress-number of cycles to rupture), derived from experimental results; showed a large results dispersion which is attributed to many causes initiating this damage. The cyclic tests illustrate brittle character of these materials; even with low-amplitude cycles of loading no adaptation of these materials can be reported. [Spanish] Este trabajo aborda el estudio experimental de la influencia de fibras de vidrio cortas orientadas al azar sobre el comportamiento mecánico de un composite reforzado de base cemento. Los parámetros de la matriz utilizados son: relación cemento/arena y relación agua/cemento fijada en 0,5; el contenido de fibra de vidrio (0%, 0,5%, 1,0%,1,5%, 2% y 2,5%) y longitudes de fibra (3, 6 y 12 mm). Los resultados mecánicos de estos compuestos bajo comportamiento estático (flexión y compresión), muestran que el efecto de refuerzo es beneficioso unicamente a flexión. Se observó una sinergia (refuerzo de la matriz) cuando se usó la fibra de 12 mm con una tasa de aplicación del 2% en flexión. El comportamiento a fatiga determinado por las curvas de Wöhler (número de ciclos hasta la rotura), derivado de los resultados experimentales; mostró una gran dispersión de resultados que se atribuye a las muchas causas que pueden iniciar este daño. Las

  16. USO DE LÁMINAS PULTRUÍDAS DE POLÍMEROS REFORZADOS CON FIBRA DE VIDRIO PARA INCREMENTAR LA RESISTENCIA A FLEXIÓN DE VIGAS DE HORMIGÓN ARMADO

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    A. Busnelli

    2016-06-01

    Full Text Available Por medio de este artículo se presenta el estudio que se viene realizando en la Facultad de Ingeniería de Rosario, en referencia al uso de láminas pultruídas de Polímeros Reforzados con Fibra de Vidrio (PRFV para incrementar la resistencia a flexión de vigas de hormigón armado, siendo dichas láminas unos de los elementos de materiales compuestos más empleados para este tipo de refuerzos. El material de mayor difusión a nivel mundial que lo constituye son las de fibras de carbono, pero su elevado costo desalienta la utilización en la reparación de estructuras en el mercado argentino. Uno de los objetivos de este programa de investigación, es comprobar la posibilidad de sustitución de dichas láminas por elementos de fibra de vidrio de fabricación nacional significativamente más económicos. Los resultados obtenidos en los ensayos demostraron la factibilidad de esta alternativa. Además, el mayor espesor de las láminas de fibra de vidrio permite el uso de anclajes adicionales abulonados, que otorgan al sistema capacidad portante post crítica y ductilidad, características muy necesarias, por ejemplo, para las estructuras en zona sísmica. Through this article the study being done at the Faculty of Engineering of Rosario, referring to the use of sheets pultruded Reinforced Polymer Fiberglass (GRP to increase the bending strength of reinforced concrete beams is presented, THESE layers are one of the elements of compound materials most commonly used in these type of reinforcements. The material most widely distributed worldwide that constitutes it is the carbon fibers, but its high cost discourages the use in the repair of structures in the Argentine market. One of the goals of this research program is to check the possibility of replacing such sheets by fiberglass elements of Argentinean production and significantly cheaper. The results of the tests demonstrated the feasibility of this alternative. In addition, the increased

  17. MR imaging findings of the corpus callosum region in the differentiation between multiple sclerosis and neuromyelitis optica

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Chen, Zhiye, E-mail: yyqf@hotmail.com [Department of Radiology, PLA General Hospital, 28 Fuxing Road, Beijing 100853 (China); Feng, Feng, E-mail: cjr.fengfeng@vip.163.com [Department of Radiology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, 1 Shuaifuyuan, Wangfujing, Beijing 100730 (China); Yang, Yang, E-mail: whitean0584@sina.com.cn [Department of Neurology, PLA General Hospital, 28 Fuxing Road, Beijing 100853 (China); Li, Jinfeng, E-mail: lijf_301@163.com [Department of Radiology, PLA General Hospital, 28 Fuxing Road, Beijing 100853 (China); Ma, Lin, E-mail: cjr.malin@vip.163.com [Department of Radiology, PLA General Hospital, 28 Fuxing Road, Beijing 100853 (China)

    2012-11-15

    Purpose: To evaluate MR imaging findings in corpus callosum region for the discrimination between opticospinal multiple sclerosis (OSMS) and neuromyelitis optica (NMO). Materials and methods: Forty-two definite OSMS with seronegative NMO-IgG and 23 NMO with seropositive NMO-IgG, and 27 age-matched normal controls (NC) were recruited. Sagittal T2-FLAIR images with 2-mm slice thickness were obtained. Subcallosal dot-dash (SCDD) sign and subcallosal striations (SCS) sign were reviewed. Results: SCDD was more commonly detected in OSMS (28 of 42 patients) than in NMO (5 of 23 patients) (P < 0.05). SCS showed no difference between OSMS (31 of 42 patients) and NMO (12 of 23 patients) (P > 0.05). For comparing ROC analysis among SCDD, SCS, and SCDD + SCS for predicted probability through binary logistic regression analysis, SCDD + SCS had the largest area under ROC curve (0.777) than SCDD (0.725) and SCS (0.608). Conclusion: SCDD may be helpful in distinguishing OSMS from NMO. The regression equation may also be a simple and effective method of choice for the differentiation between OSMS and NMO.

  18. Anexo: Fibras de lino en las piletas del poblado ibérico del Coll del Moro (Gandesa, Terra Alta: estudio paleoetnobotánico

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Alonso i Martínez, Natàlia

    1994-12-01

    Full Text Available In this paper we offer the results of research on flax fibres discovered in water-bassins of the Iberian settlement of Coll del Moro (Gandesa, Spain

    En el presente estudio presentamos los resultados obtenidos en las investigaciones realizadas sobre la funcionalidad de las piletas del poblado ibérico del Coll del Moro (Gandesa, en las cuales detectamos una importante presencia de fibras de lino.

  19. Soluble CD40 ligand contributes to blood-brain barrier breakdown and central nervous system inflammation in multiple sclerosis and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Masuda, Hiroki; Mori, Masahiro; Uchida, Tomohiko; Uzawa, Akiyuki; Ohtani, Ryohei; Kuwabara, Satoshi

    2017-04-15

    Soluble CD40 ligand (sCD40L) is reported to disrupt the blood-brain barrier (BBB). Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and serum sCD40L levels were measured in 29 multiple sclerosis (MS), 29 neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD), and 27 disease control (DC) patients. In MS, serum sCD40L levels were higher than in DCs and positively correlated with the CSF/serum albumin ratio (Qalb). In NMOSD, CSF sCD40L levels were significantly increased compared to DCs, and were correlated to Qalb, CSF cell counts, protein concentrations, and interleukin-6 levels. sCD40L could be involved in BBB disruption in MS, whereas it may contribute to CNS inflammation in NMOSD. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  20. Disruption of the leptomeningeal blood barrier in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder

    Science.gov (United States)

    Flanagan, Eoin P.; Fujihara, Kazuo; Kim, Ho Jin; Skejoe, Hanne P.; Wuerfel, Jens; Kuroda, Hiroshi; Kim, Su Hyun; Maillart, Elisabeth; Marignier, Romain; Pittock, Sean J.; Paul, Friedemann; Weinshenker, Brian G.

    2017-01-01

    Objective: To describe leptomeningeal blood-barrier impairment reflected by MRI gadolinium-enhanced lesions in patients with aquaporin-4 immunoglobulin G (AQP4-IgG)–positive neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD). Methods: A retrospective case series of 11 AQP4-IgG–positive NMOSD patients with leptomeningeal enhancement (LME) were collected from 5 centers. External neuroradiologists, blinded to the clinical details, evaluated MRIs. Results: LME was demonstrated on postcontrast T1-weighted and fluid-attenuated inversion recovery images as a sign of leptomeningeal blood-barrier disruption and transient leakage of contrast agent into the subarachnoid space in 11 patients, 6 in the brain and 6 in the spinal cord. The patterns of LME were linear or extensive and were accompanied by periependymal enhancement in 5 cases and intraparenchymal enhancement in all cases. The location of LME in the spinal cord was adjacent to intraparenchymal contrast enhancement with involvement of a median number of 12 (range 5–17) vertebral segments. At the time of LME on MRI, all patients had a clinical attack such as encephalopathy (36%) and/or myelopathy (70%) with median interval between symptom onset and LME of 12 days (range 2–30). LME occurred in association with an initial area postrema attack (44%), signs of systemic infection (33%), or AQP4-IgG in CSF (22%) followed by clinical progression. LME was found at initial clinical presentation in 5 cases and at clinical relapses leading to a diagnosis of NMOSD in 6 cases. Conclusion: This study suggests that altered leptomeningeal blood barrier may be accompanied by intraparenchymal blood-brain barrier breakdown in patients with AQP4-IgG–positive NMOSD during relapses. PMID:28451627

  1. Frequency of autoimmune disorders and autoantibodies in patients with neuromyelitis optica.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Pereira, Wildéa Lice de Carvalho Jennings; Reiche, Edna Maria Vissoci; Kallaur, Ana Paula; Oliveira, Sayonara Rangel; Simão, Andréa Name Colado; Lozovoy, Marcell Alysson Batisti; Schiavão, Lucas José Vaz; Rodrigues, Paula Raquel do Vale Pascoal; Alfieri, Daniela Frizon; Flauzino, Tamires; Kaimen-Maciel, Damacio Ramón

    2017-06-01

    The aim of this study was to report the frequency of autoimmune disorders and autoantibodies in 22 patients with neuromyelitis optica (NMO), as well as whether the seropositivity for autoantibodies differs between anti-aquaporin 4 (AQP4) positive and AQP4 negative NMO patients. Demographic, medical records, and a profile of autoantibodies were evaluated in 22 NMO patients, including AQP4, anti-thyroid-stimulating hormone receptor, antinuclear antibodies (ANA), anti-thyroperoxidase (anti-TPO), anti-thyroglobulin (anti-Tg), anti-double-stranded DNA, anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic, anti-cyclic citrullinate peptide, rheumatoid factor, anti-SSA/Ro, anti-SSB/La, anti-Smith antibodies (anti-Sm), anti-ribonucleoprotein, anti-nucleosome, and anti-Scl70. Thyroid-stimulating hormone and free thyroxin were measured. The frequency of women was higher than men (95.5% vs. 4.5%) and 68.2% were Afro-Brazilians. Six (27.3%) patients presented other autoimmune disorders, such as Hashimoto thyroiditis (n=2), Graves' disease (n=1), juvenile idiopathic arthritis (n=1), systemic lupus erythematosus and systemic sclerosis (n=1), and Raynaud's phenomenon (n=1). The most frequent autoantibodies were anti-AQP4 (54.5%), anti-nucleosome (31.8%), ANA (27.3%), anti-TPO (22.7%), and anti-Tg (22.7%). Difference was not observed in the frequency of autoimmune disorders when the patients were compared according to their anti-AQP4 status. The results of the present study underscored that the NMO patients present high frequency of autoantibodies against cellular antigens and the presence of autoimmune disorders. Further studies with large number of NMO patients may contribute to advances in the understanding of NMO disease mechanisms.

  2. Produção de mudas de tomateiro em substratos contendo fibra de coco e pó de rocha Tomato seedlings production using substrates with coconut fiber and rock waste

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Regynaldo A Sampaio

    2008-12-01

    Full Text Available Com o objetivo de avaliar proporções dos resíduos fibra de coco (FC e pó de rocha de granito (RG como substratos na produção de mudas de tomateiro, cultivar Kada Gigante, realizou-se um experimento em casa de vegetação na UFMG-ICA. Foi utilizado o delineamento experimental em blocos ao acaso, com quatro repetições. Os tratamentos foram constituídos por uma testemunha e seis proporções de fibra de coco (FC e pó de rocha de granito (RG: T1 - Substrato comercial Hortimix®; T2 - 0% FC + 100% RG; T3 - 20% FC + 80% RG; T4 - 40% FC + 60% RG; T5 - 60% FC + 40% RG; T6 - 80% FC + 20% RG; T7 - 100% FC + 0% RG. O cultivo foi feito em bandeja de poliestireno expandido com células de 3,5 x 3,5 x 5,0 cm. Foram avaliados o diâmetro do coleto, a altura da planta, o índice de velocidade de emergência, a percentagem de emergência e a massa fresca e seca da parte aérea e da raiz. Em praticamente todas as características avaliadas o substrato comercial foi superior aos substratos contendo fibra de coco e pó de rocha. Considerando-se apenas os substratos contendo fibra de coco e pó de rocha, as mudas com melhores características foram obtidas com a mistura de aproximadamente 70% em volume de fibra de coco.A greenhouse experiment was carried out to evaluate the ratio of coconut fiber and rock waste, in the tomato seedling production (cultivar Kada Gigante, in Montes Claros, Brazil. The experimental design was of randomized complete blocks with four replicates. The treatments were composed of a control and six ratios of coconut fiber (FC and rock waste (RG: T1 - Commercial Substrate Hortimix®; T2 - 0% FC + 100% RG; T3 - 20% FC + 80% RG; T4 - 40% FC + 60% RG; T5 - 60% FC + 40% RG; T6 - 80% FC + 20% RG; T7 - 100% FC + 0% RG. The cultivation was done in polystyrene trays with cells of 3.5 x 3.5 x 5,0 cm. Stem diameter, seedling height, emergency speed index, emergency percentage, root and aerial part of fresh and dry matter were evaluated. In

  3. INFLUÊNCIA DA QUANTIDADE DE FIBRAS NA DUREZA E RESISTÊNCIA AO IMPACTO DE COMPÓSITOS HIPS/BAGAÇO DE CANA PARA APLICAÇÃO NA INDÚSTRIA DE PET SHOP

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Glayce Cassaro Pereira

    2016-10-01

    Full Text Available Nos últimos anos houve um grande avanço tecnológico no desenvolvimento de materiais compósitos reforçados com fibras naturais. Esse aumento do interesse das indústrias e grupos de pesquisa em desenvolver e utilizar materiais feitos a partir de matérias primas renováveis se deu principalmente pelo grande apelo mundial para a utilização de produtos naturais e pela preservação do meio ambiente. O presente trabalho visou a caracterização de compósitos reforçados com bagaço de cana em matriz de poliestireno de alto impacto (HIPS, tendo como objetivo uma possível substituição dos materiais utilizados atualmente na indústria de produtos para pet shop. Foram caracterizadas três famílias de compósitos, nas proporções de 10, 20 e 30% (m/m. Os resultados da dureza Shore A indicaram que a adição da fibra de bagaço ao HIPS não acarretou alterações nos valores da dureza nos compósitos quando comparados ao HIPS puro. E os resultados de resistência ao impacto foi possível constatar que a adição da fibra de bagaço ao HIPS acarretou uma diminuição na resistência ao impacto, quando comparados ao HIPS puro.

  4. Reforço à flexão em vigas de concreto armado com manta de fibra de carbono: mecanismos de incremento de ancoragem

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Vladimir José Ferrari

    2002-04-01

    Full Text Available O desprendimento dos laminados de plásticos reforçados com fibras da face inferior tracionada das vigas reforçadas à flexão é um problema complexo e indesejável, pois ocorre sem aviso, antecipando a ruína da viga reforçada e impossibilitando o total aproveitamento das propriedades resistentes à tração do reforço. Neste trabalho estudou-se o comportamento de vigas de concreto armado, reforçadas à flexão com manta de fibra de carbono, e avaliou-se a incorporação de mecanismos de incremento de ancoragem para evitar o desprendimento prematuro da manta com conseqüente aumento da capacidade resistente à flexão da viga. Nove vigas foram divididas em cinco grupos em conformidade com mecanismo de incremento de ancoragem adotado. Um dos mecanismos, além de evitar o desprendimento prematuro do reforço, também proporcionou incremento na resistência à flexão mais de 95%, em relação à viga sem reforço, e incrementos em torno de 20%, em relação às vigas sem incremento de ancoragem.

  5. Fertilidade de substratos para mudas de mangabeira, contendo fibra de coco e adubados com fósforo = Fertility of substrata for mangabeira seedlings, containing coconut fiber and fertilized with phosphorus

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Thiago Jardelino Dias

    2007-12-01

    Full Text Available Este experimento foi executado no Centro de Ciências Agrárias da UFPB,Areia, Estado da Paraíba, com objetivo de avaliar a fertilidade de substratos compostos por diferentes concentrações de fibra de coco (0 a 40%, esterco bovino (0 a 25%, terra vegetal (25 a 70%, 15% de areia e adubados com superfosfato triplo (0; 5,5 e 11 g L-1. Houveaumento das características químicas desejáveis do substrato com aumento da concentração de terra vegetal, fibra de coco e dose máxima do superfosfato triplo. A fibra de coco provocou aumento do teor de sódio nos substratos. Recomenda-se utilizar o substratoconstituído de 0 % de esterco, 46% de terra vegetal, 39% de fibra de coco, 15% de areia e 11 g L-1 de superfosfato triplo para obtenção dos máximos valores estimados de matéria orgânica, potássio, magnésio, cálcio e fósforo, e mínimo para H++Al+3 e sódio.This experiment was carried out at Centro de Ciências Agrárias of UFPB, Areia, state of Paraíba, whose objective was to evaluate thefertility of the substrata composed by concentrations of coconut fiber from 0 to 40%, manure bovine from 0 to 25.5%, soil from 25 to 70%, sand 15% and triple superphosphate between 0 and 11 g L-1. There was increase of the desirable chemical characteristics to thesubstratum with the increase of the concentration of soil, coconut fiber and maximum dose of the triple superphosphate. The coconut fiber increased the tenor of sodium in the substrata. It is recommended to use the concentrations of 0% of manure, 46% of soil, 39% of coconut fiber, 15% of sand and 11 g L-1 of triple superphosfate, to obtain the maxima estimated values of organic matter, potassium, magnesium, calcium and phosphorus, andminima for H++Al+3 and sodium.

  6. Clinical and imaging characteristics and autoantibody analysis of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Nan LIU

    2014-09-01

    Full Text Available Objective To observe the clinical and imaging characteristics and the changes of autoimmune antibodies in the serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF of patients with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSDs.  Methods The data of 10 patients with NMOSDs in Aviation General Hospital of China Medical University from January 2011 to June 2014 were collected. The clinical and imaging features were retrospectively reviewed, and NMO-IgG in serum and CSF, anti-nuclear antibody (ANA, homocysteine (Hcy and thyroid function were analyzed.  Results Cranial and spinal MRI of these patients showed that brain stem was involved in 3 cases, cervical cord in 3 cases, thoracic cord in 6 cases, and cervical-thoracic cord in one case. Serum NMO-IgG were tested in 8 cases, among whom 3 patients were positive (3/8 and 5 were negative (5/8. ANA was positive in one case (1/3, and thyroglobulin (TG antibody and thyroid peroxidase (TPO antibody were positive in 2 cases (2/3. Hypothyroidism occured in 2 cases, hyperthyroidism occured in one case, and Hcy rised in 2 cases.  Conclusions NMOSDs frequently occur in young and middle-aged women. Patients who were highly suspected with NMOSDs should receive tests of autoimmune antibodies in the serum and CSF, and cranial and spinal MRI examination, in order to make a definite diagnosis and receive appropriate treatment. Retesting the autoimmune antibodies should be done in catabasis, in order to identify the relationship between autoimmune antibodies and NMOSDs. doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1672-6731.2014.09.010

  7. Imbalance in multiple sclerosis and neuromyelitis optica: association with deep sensation disturbance.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Demura, Yutaka; Kinoshita, Masako; Fukuda, Osamu; Nose, Shouzou; Nakano, Hitoshi; Juzu, Akira; Murase, Nagako; Yamamoto, Kenji

    2016-12-01

    Abnormality in balance is one of the most important causes of gait disturbance which has a direct impact to disability and medical cost in multiple sclerosis (MS) and neuromyelitis optica (NMO). However, characteristics of imbalance in these two diseases have not been fully elucidated. The aim of this study was to evaluate the degree and features of imbalance using stabilography, the degree of deep sensation disturbance using tibial nerve somatosensory evoked potentials (SEP), and their association with clinical impairment, in patients with MS and NMO. Seven NMO patients and seven MS patients with balance disturbance were examined. The relationship among stabilography measurements representing the degree and features of imbalance, height-adjusted P38 peak latency of SEP, and neurological functional disability, were analyzed. Stabilography evaluation showed a significantly severer degree of imbalance in NMO than in MS. Romberg quotient of the patients with brainstem lesions was significantly larger than those without them. In all patients, length of excursion per second significantly correlated positively with anterio-posterior-axis power spectra at intermediate frequency band. In all patients and in NMO, P38 peak latency adjusted by height significantly correlated positively with anterio-posterior-axis power spectra at intermediate frequency band. These findings suggest that the degree of imbalance of MS and NMO possibly correlate with deep sensation disturbance, which could be evaluated by anterio-posterior-axis power spectra at intermediate frequency band by stabilography. Severer imbalance in NMO than MS may be associated with the severe longitudinally extensive spinal cord lesions.

  8. Circulating regulatory B cell subsets in patients with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Han, Jinming; Sun, Li; Wang, Zhongkun; Fan, Xueli; Wang, Lifang; Song, Yang-Yang; Zhu, Jie; Jin, Tao

    2017-07-01

    This study analyzed the populations of three different subsets of regulatory B cells (Bregs) in the peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of patients with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSDs) and explored the relationship between the changes in these subsets of Bregs and the severity of NMOSD. A total of 22 patients with relapsed NMOSDs before treatment were recruited in our study, along with 20 age and gender-matched healthy controls, from May 2015 to March 2016. The percentages and numbers for three different subsets of Bregs including the CD19 + CD24 hi CD38 hi , CD19 + CD24 hi CD27 + , and CD19 + CD5 + CD1d hi populations were evaluated in parallel by flow cytometry. Afterwards, correlations between the change of three different subsets of Bregs and disease severity were analyzed. We found significantly lower percentages of CD19 + CD24 hi CD38 hi and CD19 + CD5 + CD1d hi Bregs in NMOSDs patients than in healthy individuals. In contrast, the CD19 + CD24 hi CD27 + Bregs population was significantly higher in NMOSDs patients than in healthy individuals. However, the three different Bregs subsets showed no significant correlation with expanded disability status scale (EDSS) or annualized relapse rate (ARR). Our findings suggest that the subsets of Bregs may play complex roles in the pathogenesis of NMOSDs and are not correlated with clinical disease severity. Further insights into the potential role of subsets of Bregs could increase our basic knowledge of NMOSDs pathogenesis.

  9. PROCESSAMENTO DE CASCA E FIBRA DE COCO VERDE POR CARBONIZAÇÃO PARA AGREGAÇÃO DE VALOR / PROCESSING OF COCONUT SHELL AND FIBER FOR ADDING VALUE

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    LUIS A. B. CORTEZ

    2009-04-01

    Full Text Available Atualmente o Brasil é o maior produtor de coco verde, com uma área plantada equivalente a 57 mil hectares, onde a maior parte da parte da produção (66,5% se concentra na região Nordeste. O descarte do coco depois do consumo da água representa um problema para os sistemas de coleta e tratamento de lixo, pela sua lenta degradação devido ao alto teor de fibras. Neste trabalho são mostrados os resultados da pirólise lenta da fibra e da casca do coco verde. Os experimentos foram conduzidos em um forno experimental de pequena capacidade, a uma temperatura de 350°C. Os resultados mostraram que o rendimento em carbono fixo foi de 74,43% para o endocarpo verde e 58,07% para o mesocarpo verde. O teor de cinzas, para as mesmas amostras, foi de 14,13% e 13,03%, respectivamente. Os teores de voláteis foram de 11,40% para o carvão obtido do endocarpo verde e, de 28,90% para o carvão obtido do mesocarpo verde. Ficou demonstrado que o resíduo do coco verde apresenta potencial para a produção de carvão vegetal. Porém ainda é preciso estudar o rendimento, utilizando para isto, sistemas em maior escala, avaliando também o emprego integral (casca e fibra, além de estudos econômicos que considerem os custos de logística e acondicionamento.Palavras Chaves: pirólise lenta, carbonização, resíduos de coco.

  10. REVISIÓN: PRODUCTOS VEGETALES COMO FUENTE DE FIBRA DIETARIA EN LA INDUSTRIA DE ALIMENTOS VEGETABLE PRODUCTS AS SOURCE OF DIETARY FIBER IN THE FOOD INDUSTRY: A REVIEW

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Zoraida Cañas Ángel

    2011-06-01

    Full Text Available Durante los últimos años se ha incrementado el interés de la industria, los especialistas y del público en general, hacia los posibles usos y beneficios de la fibra dietaria (FD. Este ingrediente funcional, ha sido reportado especialmente por favorecer el funcionamiento digestivo, controlando el tránsito intestinal de los alimentos, el estreñimiento, las hemorroides, la absorción de glucosa, el colesterol, la sensación de saciedad, entre otros. En este artículo se hace una revisión de literatura publicada principalmente de la última década de la fibra dietaria como componente con actividad fisiológica (ingrediente funcional, haciendo énfasis en las fuentes vegetales, sus propiedades funcionales y aplicabilidad. El resultado del repaso, identifica que son muchas las fuentes de fibra dietaria actualmente subutilizadas y que representan una alternativa viable y de bajo costo para mejorar la nutrición de la población.During the last years there has been an increasing interest from industry, professionals and the general public about possible uses and benefits of dietary fiber (DF. These functional ingredients have been reported especially by promoting gastrointestinal operation, controlling the intestinal transit of food, constipation, hemorrhoids, the absorption of glucose, cholesterol, satiety, among others. This article is a review of literature published primarily in the last decade as a component of dietary fiber with physiological activity (functional ingredient, with emphasis on plant sources, its functional properties and applicability. The results of the review, identified that there are many sources of dietary fiber currently underutilized and represent a viable alternative to improve the nutrition of the population at low cost.

  11. Assessment of Optic Nerve Impairment in Patients with Neuromyelitis Optica by MR Diffusion Tensor Imaging.

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Zhiye Chen

    Full Text Available Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI has been used for the evaluation of the white matter integrity. In this study, we evaluated optic nerve impairment in patients with neuromyelitis optica (NMO using DTI.Optic nerve DTI were performed on 28 NMO patients and 38 normal controls. Fractional anisotropy (FA values were measured in the anterior, middle, and posterior parts of the intraorbital optic nerve segment. For the posterior intraorbital optic nerve, FA values of BI (0.20±0.07, MI (0.24±0.16, and NA (0.25±0.14 decreased significantly compared with that of NC (0.43±0.07 (P<0.05, and ROC analysis demonstrated that the area under the curve (AUC measurements for BI vs. NC, MI vs. NC, NA vs. NC, and NMO (including BI, MI, and NA vs. NC were 0.99, 0.93, 0.88, and 0.96, respectively. The corresponding diagnostic sensitivities of ROC analysis were 100%, 80%, 80%, and 91%; and the specificities were 93%, 97%, 91%, and 93%.Decreased FA value in the intraorbital optic nerve, especially in the posterior part of the nerve, was demonstrated as a characteristic MR feature for NMO-related optic nerve impairment.

  12. Multifrequency magnetic resonance elastography of the brain reveals tissue degeneration in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Streitberger, Kaspar-Josche; Fehlner, Andreas; Sack, Ingolf; Pache, Florence; Lacheta, Anna; Papazoglou, Sebastian; Brandt, Alexander; Bellmann-Strobl, Judith; Ruprecht, Klemens; Braun, Juergen; Paul, Friedemann; Wuerfel, Jens

    2017-01-01

    Application of multifrequency magnetic resonance elastography (MMRE) of the brain parenchyma in patients with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) compared to age matched healthy controls (HC). 15 NMOSD patients and 17 age- and gender-matched HC were examined using MMRE. Two three-dimensional viscoelastic parameter maps, the magnitude G* and phase angle φ of the complex shear modulus were reconstructed by simultaneous inversion of full wave-field data in 1.9-mm isotropic resolution at 7 harmonic drive frequencies from 30 to 60 Hz. In NMOSD patients, a significant reduction of G* was observed within the white matter fraction (p = 0.017), predominantly within the thalamic regions (p = 0.003), compared to HC. These parameters exceeded the reduction in brain volume measured in patients versus HC (p = 0.02 whole-brain volume reduction). Volumetric differences in white matter fraction and the thalami were not detectable between patients and HC. However, phase angle φ was decreased in patients within the white matter (p = 0.03) and both thalamic regions (p = 0.044). MMRE reveals global tissue degeneration with accelerated softening of the brain parenchyma in patients with NMOSD. The predominant reduction of stiffness is found within the thalamic region and related white matter tracts, presumably reflecting Wallerian degeneration. (orig.)

  13. Multifrequency magnetic resonance elastography of the brain reveals tissue degeneration in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Streitberger, Kaspar-Josche [Charite - Universitaetsmedizin Berlin, Department of Radiology, Berlin (Germany); Charite - Universitaetsmedizin Berlin, Department of Neurology with Experimental Neurology, Berlin (Germany); Fehlner, Andreas; Sack, Ingolf [Charite - Universitaetsmedizin Berlin, Department of Radiology, Berlin (Germany); Pache, Florence [Charite - Universitaetsmedizin Berlin, Department of Neurology with Experimental Neurology, Berlin (Germany); Charite - Universitaetsmedizin Berlin, NeuroCure Clinical Research Center, Berlin (Germany); Lacheta, Anna; Papazoglou, Sebastian; Brandt, Alexander [Charite - Universitaetsmedizin Berlin, NeuroCure Clinical Research Center, Berlin (Germany); Bellmann-Strobl, Judith [Max Delbrueck Center for Molecular Medicine and Charite - Universitaetsmedizin Berlin, Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Berlin (Germany); Ruprecht, Klemens [Charite - Universitaetsmedizin Berlin, Department of Neurology with Experimental Neurology, Berlin (Germany); Braun, Juergen [Charite - Universitaetsmedizin Berlin, Institute of Medical Informatics, Berlin (Germany); Paul, Friedemann [Charite - Universitaetsmedizin Berlin, Department of Neurology with Experimental Neurology, Berlin (Germany); Charite - Universitaetsmedizin Berlin, NeuroCure Clinical Research Center, Berlin (Germany); Max Delbrueck Center for Molecular Medicine and Charite - Universitaetsmedizin Berlin, Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Berlin (Germany); Wuerfel, Jens [Charite - Universitaetsmedizin Berlin, NeuroCure Clinical Research Center, Berlin (Germany); Max Delbrueck Center for Molecular Medicine and Charite - Universitaetsmedizin Berlin, Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Berlin (Germany); Medical Image Analysis Center (MIAC AG), Basel (Switzerland)

    2017-05-15

    Application of multifrequency magnetic resonance elastography (MMRE) of the brain parenchyma in patients with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) compared to age matched healthy controls (HC). 15 NMOSD patients and 17 age- and gender-matched HC were examined using MMRE. Two three-dimensional viscoelastic parameter maps, the magnitude G* and phase angle φ of the complex shear modulus were reconstructed by simultaneous inversion of full wave-field data in 1.9-mm isotropic resolution at 7 harmonic drive frequencies from 30 to 60 Hz. In NMOSD patients, a significant reduction of G* was observed within the white matter fraction (p = 0.017), predominantly within the thalamic regions (p = 0.003), compared to HC. These parameters exceeded the reduction in brain volume measured in patients versus HC (p = 0.02 whole-brain volume reduction). Volumetric differences in white matter fraction and the thalami were not detectable between patients and HC. However, phase angle φ was decreased in patients within the white matter (p = 0.03) and both thalamic regions (p = 0.044). MMRE reveals global tissue degeneration with accelerated softening of the brain parenchyma in patients with NMOSD. The predominant reduction of stiffness is found within the thalamic region and related white matter tracts, presumably reflecting Wallerian degeneration. (orig.)

  14. Análise quantitativa das fibras mielínicas dos nervos laríngeos em humanos de acordo com a idade Quantitative analysis of myelinic fibers in human laryngeal nerves according to age

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Romualdo Suzano Louzeiro Tiago

    2008-02-01

    Full Text Available INTRODUÇÃO E OBJETIVO: Realizar análise morfométrica das fibras mielínicas dos nervos laríngeos com a finalidade de verificar modificações quantitativas decorrentes do processo de envelhecimento. FORMA DE ESTUDO: Clínico e experimental. Material e Método: Foi coletado fragmento de 1cm dos nervos laríngeos superiores e nervos laríngeos recorrentes de 12 cadáveres do sexo masculino. A amostra foi dividida em dois grupos: idade inferior a 60 anos (Adulto e idade igual ou superior a 60 anos (Idoso. O material foi avaliado em microscópio de luz acoplado a sistema analisador de imagem. RESULTADOS: O número total de fibras mielínicas do nervo laríngeo superior foi semelhante nos dois grupos etários, mas com tendência para o maior número de fibras de 1µm no grupo adulto (p=0,0744. O grupo adulto apresentou maior número total de fibras mielínicas no nervo laríngeo recorrente (p=0,0006, e esta diferença ocorreu nas fibras com diâmetros de 1-3µm (pINTRODUCTION AND AIM: To carry out a morphometric analysis of myelinic fibers in laryngeal nerves aiming to identify quantitative changes as a result of aging. Study design: Clinical and experimental. MATERIAL AND METHOD: A 1cm fragment was collected from the superior laryngeal nerves and recurrent laryngeal nerves taken from twelve male cadavers. The sample was divided into two groups: those aged below 60 years (Adult and those aged 60 years or more (Elderly. The material was evaluated under light microscopy coupled with an image analysis system. RESULTS: The total number of myelinic fibers from the superior laryngeal nerve was similar in both age groups; there was, however, a trend for a higher number of 1μm fibers in the adult group (p=0.0744. The adult group had a higher total number of myelinic fibers in the recurrent laryngeal nerve (p=0.0006, and this difference was seen in fibers with diameters betwee 1-3μm (p<0.007. The adult group had a higher total number of myelinic fibers

  15. Morteros aligerados con arcilla expandida: influencia de la granulometría y la adicción de fibras de vidrio ar en el comportamiento mecánico

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    González Cortina, Mariano

    2005-06-01

    Full Text Available The study of lightweight cement mortars containing expanded clay aggregate described in this article was conducted to determine the effect of adding fibreglass fibres able to resist the alkalis in cement on the mechanical performance of the mortar. This involved analyzing the following variables: fibre length, degree and effect of dispersion and clay particle size distribution. The lightweight mortars studied are very low density mortars primarily used as fill in different construction situations.En este artículo se presenta un estudio realizado sobre morteros de cemento aligerados con arcilla expandida, para determinar la influencia de la adición de fibras de vidrio resistentes a los álcalis del cemento (AR, en el análisis de las variables: longitud de la fibra, porcentaje e influencia de la dispersabilidad, y la granulometría de la arcilla, sobre el comportamiento mecánico de los mismos. Los morteros aligerados analizados son morteros de muy baja densidad que se están utilizando como material de relleno, fundamentalmente, en distintas soluciones constructivas.

  16. Avaliação da atividade antifúngica de extratos de gengibre e eucalipto in vitro e em fibras de bananeira infectadas com Helminthosporium sp = Evaluation of antifungal activity in vitro of ginger and eucalypt extracts on banana fibers infected with Helminthosporium sp

    OpenAIRE

    Edvirgem Rodrigues; Kátia Regina Freitas Schwan-Estrada; José Renato Stangarlin; Maria Eugenia Silva Cruz; Ana Cristina Grade Fiori-Tutida

    2006-01-01

    O presente trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar a fungitoxicidade dos extratos brutos aquosos (EBA) de gengibre (Zingiber officinalis) e eucalipto (Corymbia citriodora) sobre o fungo Helminthosporium sp. Este patógeno foi identificado nas fibras do pseudocaule da bananeira, as quais são utilizadas na fabricação de artesanato local. Foram avaliados o crescimento micelial e esporulação do fungo in vitro, além do crescimento da colônia fúngica nas fibras tratadas com os extratos das plantas. As f...

  17. Neuromyelitis optica and the evolving spectrum of autoimmune aquaporin-4 channelopathies: a decade later

    Science.gov (United States)

    Pittock, Sean J.; Lucchinetti, Claudia F.

    2015-01-01

    The discovery of AQP4-IgG (a pathogenic antibody that targets the astrocytic water channel aquaporin-4) as the first sensitive and specific biomarker for any inflammatory central nervous system demyelinating disease, has shifted emphasis from the oligodendrocyte and myelin to the astrocyte as a central immunopathogenic player. Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) spectrum disorders (SD) represent an evolving spectrum of IDDs extending beyond the optic nerves and spinal cord to include the brain (especially in children) and, rarely, muscle. NMOSD typical brain lesions are located in areas that highly express the target antigen, AQP4, including the circumventricular organs (accounting for intractable nausea and vomiting) and the diencephalon (accounting for sleep disorders, endocrinopathies, and syndrome of inappropriate antidiuresis). Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) brain abnormalities fulfill Barkoff criteria for multiple sclerosis in up to 10% of patients. As the spectrum broadens, the importance of highly specific assays that detect pathogenic AQP4-IgG targeting extracellular epitopes of AQP4 cannot be overemphasized. The rapid evolution of our understanding of the immunobiology of AQP4 autoimmunity necessitates continuing revision of NMOSD diagnostic criteria. Here, we describe scientific advances that have occurred since the discovery of NMO-IgG in 2004 and review novel targeted immunotherapies. We also suggest that NMOSDs should now be considered under the umbrella term autoimmune aquaporin-4 channelopathy. PMID:26096370

  18. Lesions of the posterior limb of the internal capsule in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Long, Youming; Wu, Linzhan; Zhong, Rong; Ouyang, Xiaoming; Liang, Junyan; Gao, Cong; Chen, Xiaohui; Qiu, Wei; Chang, Yanyu; Wang, Zhanhang; Ye, Jinlong

    2017-05-01

    Posterior limb of the internal capsule lesions (PLICL) are one of the MRI features of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD). However, there is no evidence that such lesions are pathogenically related to NMOSD. We retrospectively analyzed features of PLICL in NMOSD, and other central nervous system inflammatory disorders, in 561 patients. We also examined the pathological samples of six patients. Of the 561 patients investigated, PLICL were found in 65 patients (11.6%). Lesions were bilateral in 26 cases (40%) and unilateral in 39 cases (60%). Unilateral lesions were mainly located on the left side (74.3%, 29/39). Of the 65 patients with PLICL, 46 patients had NMOSD (70.8%) and were positive for anti-aquaporin (AQP4-IgG), four had NMOSD (6.2%) and were AQP4-IgG negative, 10 patients had multiple sclerosis (MS), three patients had NMDAR encephalitis, and two had autoimmune meningoencephalitis. Of the six patients whose pathological samples were evaluated, all had PLICL and were negative for AQP4-IgG, and none had pathological NMOSD lesion features. These cases included three patients with multiple sclerosis, one with anti-N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor encephalitis, and two with autoimmune meningoencephalitis. In conclusion, PLICL are found not only in patients with NMOSD, but also in MS and other disorders.

  19. Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders: long-term safety and efficacy of rituximab in Caucasian patients.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Radaelli, M; Moiola, L; Sangalli, F; Esposito, F; Barcella, V; Ferrè, L; Rodegher, M; Colombo, B; Fazio, R; Martinelli, V; Comi, G

    2016-04-01

    To assess the long-term benefit-risk profile of repeated courses of rituximab in Caucasian patients affected by neuromyelitis optica (NMO) and related disorders, in everyday clinical practice. This is a prospective observational study performed at San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, Italy. From February 2006, we recruited 21 patients affected by NMO and NMO spectrum of disorders (NMOSD) whom underwent at least one cycle of intravenous (i.v.) rituximab and then were followed for at least 2 years. At a mean follow-up time of 48 months, we observed a significant reduction of the annualized relapse rate (ARR), from 2.0 to 0.16 (p < 0.01); and of the median Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS), from 5.5 to 4.0 (p < 0.013). There were 12 patients (57%) who remained disease free during the follow-up period. Five patients (24%) reported mild hematological adverse events. Serious infectious adverse events were reported by another four patients: These were all wheelchair bound at the beginning of their rituximab treatment. A fixed treatment scheme of rituximab, with re-treatment every 6 months, was efficacious for NMO and NMOSD, with a good safety profile; however, to obtain an even better benefit-risk ratio, close monitoring of CD19(+) B cells should be performed before the re-treatment of patients with high-level disability, concomitant leukopenia and hypogammaglobulinemia. © The Author(s), 2015.

  20. MRI abnormalities and related risk factors of the brain in patients with neuromyelitis optica

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Xiao Hui; Ma Lin; Lou Xin; Cai Youquan; Wang Yulin; Wang Yan; Wu Lei; Wu Weiping

    2011-01-01

    Objective: To investigate the MRI features of the brain in patients with neuromyelitis optica (NMO), and to evaluate the correlation between the brain abnormalities and related risk factors. Methods: Fifty-four patients with definite NMO according to 2006 Wingerchuk diagnosis criteria were enrolled in this study. MRI scanning of the brain was performed in these patients. Distribution and signal features of all the lesions were analyzed. A Logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate the risk factors of brain abnormalities. Results: Twenty-four NMO patients (44.4%) showed unremarkable findings and thirty (55.6%) showed abnormalities on brain MRI. Multiple and non-specific small lesions in the subcortical white matter and grey-white matter junction were the most frequent abnormalities on brain MRI (13/30, 43.3%). Typical lesion locations included corpus callosum, subependyma of ventricles, hypothalamus and brain stem. The lesions showed punctate, patchy and linear abnormal signals. Post-contrast MRI showed no abnormal enhancement in 16 cases. Logistic regression analysis showed that coexisting autoimmune disease or infection. history had correlations with abnormalities of the brain on MRI (OR=3.519, P<0.05). Conclusions: There was a high incidence of brain abnormalities in NMO. Subependymal white matter, corpus callosum, hypothalamus and brain stem were often involved in NMO. NMO patients with coexisting autoimmune disease and infection history had higher risk of brain abnormalities. (authors)

  1. Influência da adição de diferentes fontes de fibras (farinha de trigo de grão inteiro e amido resistente) e de transglutaminase nas características tecnológicas, estruturais e sensoriais de massas alimentícias

    OpenAIRE

    Leandra Zafalon Jaekel

    2013-01-01

    Resumo: O interesse dos consumidores por alimentos com características funcionais tem aumentado nos últimos anos. A farinha de trigo de grão inteiro (FTGI) contém constituintes com efeitos benéficos a saúde (fibras, minerais, vitaminas, antioxidantes e aminoácidos). O amido resistente (AR) também tem sua contribuição à saúde, atuando como fibra alimentar. Massas alimentícias, cuja produção brasileira cresce a cada ano, constituem uma excelente forma de aplicação dessas matérias-primas. Contud...

  2. Polpa de fruta congelada: efeito do processamento sobre o conteúdo de fibra alimentar Frozen fruit pulps: effects of the processing on dietary fiber contents

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Silvana Magalhães Salgado

    1999-12-01

    Full Text Available Avaliou-se os efeitos do processo utilizado na obtenção de polpa de frutas congelada sobre o teor de fibras alimentares, empregando-se acerola, caju, goiaba, graviola, manga, pinha, pitanga, sapoti e uva no estágio maduro. Demonstrou-se que o processo tecnológico empregado reduziu significativamente o percentual de fibras alimentares das frutas, determinadas por método gravimétrico não enzimático, principalmente da goiaba, seguida da uva, graviola, sapoti, caju, pinha e acerola; com exceção da manga e pitanga, as demais polpas congeladas não substituem, em termos quantitativos, a fibra alimentar dos frutos in natura na dieta de indivíduos sadios. Considerando que essas perdas são variáveis face às características dos frutos processados, a inclusão de polpas congeladas na dieta em substituição às frutas dependerá de estudos qualitativos que permitam esclarecer os constituintes da referida fração.The effects of the process utilized to obtain frozen fruit pulp on the quality of dietary fibers were evaluated, using ripe samples of acerola, cashew, guava, soursop, mango, sweetsop, pitanga, sapoti and grapes. The results obtained showed that the technological process used reduced significantly the fiber percentual of the fruit, determined by gravimetric non-ensymatic method particularly the guava, followed by the grapes, soursop, saoti, cashew, sweetsop and acerola. With the exception of mango and pitanga, all the frozen pulps tested do not seem to substitute, in terms of quantity of dietary fiber, the in natura fruit in the diet of healthy individuals. Considering the fact that these losses are variable, depending on the characteristics of the fruit which was processed, the inclusion of frozen pulps in the human diet in substitution to fruits will depend on quality control studies which may lead to a classification of the components of the mentioned fraction.

  3. Linear lesions may assist early diagnosis of neuromyelitis optica and longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis, two subtypes of NMOSD.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Cai, Wei; Tan, Sha; Zhang, Lei; Shan, Yilong; Wang, Yanqiang; Lin, Yinyao; Zhou, Fangjing; Zhang, Bingjun; Chen, Xiaoyu; Zhou, Li; Wang, Yuge; Huang, Xuehong; Men, Xuejiao; Li, Haiyan; Qiu, Wei; Hu, Xueqiang; Lu, Zhengqi

    2016-01-15

    To investigate the relationship between linear lesions (LL) and the development of longitudinally extensive spinal cord lesions (LESCL) in Chinese patients with neuromyelitis optica or longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis. The clinical records of 143 patients with these conditions were reviewed. Forty-one patients with LL were divided into three groups according to the order of appearance of LL and LESCL (simultaneously [n=10], LL first [n=26], or LESCL first [n=5]). The remaining 102 patients without LL were used as a control group. Patients who developed LL first demonstrated a lower annualized relapse rate than those in the simultaneous group (1.00 [0.23-10.00] vs. 4.38 [0.60-6.67], p=0.017) and the control group (1.00 [0.23-10.00] vs. 2.00 [0.24-10.00], p=0.007). Among all patients with LL, there were significantly more who developed them before LESCL than those who developed them after LESCL (poptica and longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  4. CARACTERIZACIÓN MICROBIOLÓGICA Y BROMATOLÓGICA DE HAMBURGUESAS BAJAS EN GRASA CON ADICIÓN DE FIBRA DE BANANO VERDE INTEGRO MICROBIOLOGICAL AND BROMATOLOGICAL CHARACTERIZATION OF BURGERS WITH ADDITION OF GREEN BANANA FIBER ENTIRETY

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Silvia Marcela Ospina Meneses

    2011-06-01

    Full Text Available El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar el efecto del reemplazo de la mitad de la grasa por fibra de banano verde íntegro reconstituido 1:1 y 1:1,38, sobre las características microbiológicas y bromatológicas de hamburguesas de carne de res, comparadas con hamburguesas con 20% de grasa como hamburguesa control, durante 60 días de almacenamiento en congelación. Los resultados muestran diferencias significativas (P0,05 ni en el tiempo ni en los niveles de inclusión de fibra. Tanto las hamburguesas control como las con inclusión de fibra permanecieron estables en términos de la calidad microbiológica durante 60 días de almacenamiento en congelación. Por otra parte, el nivel de oxidación no presentó diferencia significativa (P>0,05 entre los diferentes tratamientos, sin presentar oxidación en el tiempo. La fibra de banano verde íntegro puede ser usada satisfactoriamente como un sustituto de la grasa en hamburguesas de res “reducidas o bajas en grasa”.The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of replacing half the fat by green banana fiber reconstituted 1:1 and 1:1,38 on microbiological and qualitative characteristics of beef patties compared with patties with 20% fat hamburger control during 60 days of frozen storage. The results show significant differences (P 0.05 or the time or the inclusion levels of fiber. Both hamburger including control as the fiber remained stable in terms of microbiological quality during 60 days of frozen storage. Moreover, the level of oxidation showed no significant difference (P> 0.05 between treatments, without presenting oxidation time. The full green banana fiber can be used successfully as a substitute for fat in beef patties “reduced or low fat.”

  5. Efeito do condicionamento ambiental nas propriedades de cisalhamento e viscoelásticas de compósitos híbridos metal-fibra

    OpenAIRE

    Damato, Cesar Augusto [UNESP

    2010-01-01

    O desenvolvimento da tecnologia dos compósitos híbridos, combinando laminados poliméricos reforçados com fibras longas e placas metálicas, normalmente ligas de alumínio, denominados de CHMF, tem como uma de suas finalidades formar um conjunto de materiais que combine elevados valores de resistência mecânica, resistência ao impacto, rigidez e baixa massa específica. Essa combinação de propriedades torna os CHMF particularmente atrativos como substituintes das ligas metálicas e dos compósitos t...

  6. The Pathology of an Autoimmune Astrocytopathy: Lessons Learned from Neuromyelitis Optica

    Science.gov (United States)

    Lucchinetti, Claudia F.; Guo, Yong; Popescu, Bogdan F. Gh.; Fujihara, Kazuo; Itoyama, Yasuto; Misu, Tatsuro

    2014-01-01

    Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) is a disabling autoimmune astrocytopathy characterized by typically severe and recurrent attacks of optic neuritis and longitudinally-extensive myelitis. Until recently, NMO was considered an acute aggressive variant of multiple sclerosis (MS), despite the fact that early studies postulated that NMO and MS may be two distinct diseases with a common clinical picture. With the discovery of a highly specific serum autoantibody (NMO-IgG), Lennon and colleagues provided the first unequivocal evidence distinguishing NMO from MS and other CNS inflammatory demyelinating disorders. The target antigen of NMO-IgG was confirmed to be aquaporin-4 (AQP4), the most abundant water channel protein in the central nervous system (CNS), mainly expressed on astrocytic foot processes at the blood brain barrier, subpial and subependymal regions. Pathological studies demonstrated that astrocytes were selectively targeted in NMO as evidenced by the extensive loss of immunoreactivities for the astrocytic proteins, AQP4 and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), as well as perivascular deposition of immunoglobulins and activation of complement even within lesions with a relative preservation of myelin. In support of these pathological findings, GFAP levels in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) during acute NMO exacerbations were found to be remarkably elevated in contrast to MS where CSF-GFAP levels did not substantially differ from controls. Additionally, recent experimental studies showed that AQP4 antibody is pathogenic, resulting in selective astrocyte destruction and dysfunction in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo. These findings strongly suggest that NMO is an autoimmune astrocytopathy where damage to astrocytes exceeds both myelin and neuronal damage. This chapter will review recent neuropathological studies that have provided novel insights into the pathogenic mechanisms, cellular targets, as well as the spectrum of tissue damage in NMO. PMID:24345222

  7. Anti-thyroid antibodies and thyroid function in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Wang, Xuan; Yi, Huan; Liu, Jia; Li, Min; Mao, Zhi-Feng; Xu, Li; Peng, Fu-Hua

    2016-07-15

    Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSD) are complicated neuroautoimmune disorders which can coexist with other organ-specific autoimmune disorders. The most frequently specific organ is the thyroid. The aim of this study is to evaluate the thyroid function of NMOSD patients and detect the difference between anti-thyroid antibodies (ATAbs) seropositive and seronegative NMOSD patients. 88 patients diagnosed with NMOSD were enrolled and their thyroid functions were evaluated. They were divided into two groups by ATAbs abnormalities. In addition, demographic characteristics, clinical symptoms and MRI scan results of brain and spinal cord were assessed. Anti-thyroid peroxidase antibodies (TPOAbs) and anti-thyroglobulin antibodies (TGAbs) seropositivities were detected more frequently in patients with NMOSDs when compared with healthy controls (37.5% vs 14.9%, P=0.01, Diff22.6%, 95CI[9.0%, 34.9%]; 31.8% vs 16.2%, P=0.022, Diff15.6%, 95CI[2.27%, 27.9%]). In NMOSD patients, the Expanded disability status scale score (EDSS) score was significantly higher in ATAbs seropositive group than that in ATAbs seronegative group (median 6.5 vs 3.75, P=0.012). However, there is no significant difference for demographic characteristics and other clinical symptoms. Moreover, NMOSD patients with ATAbs abnormalities had more brain and cervical cord lesions when compared with ATAbs negative NMOSD patients (83.8% vs 61.4%, P=0.029, Diff22.4%, 95CI[0.9%, 40.9%]; 93.9% vs 59.6%, P=0.001, Diff34.3%, 95CI[13.6%, 50.4%]). NMOSD patients have a higher frequency of ATAbs abnormalities. ATAbs may be associated with disability status, brain abnormalities and cervical cord lesions. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  8. Efficacy and safety of rituximab in neuromyelitis optica: Review of evidence

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Masoud Etemadifar

    2017-01-01

    Full Text Available Neuromyelitis optica (NMO is an autoimmune inflammatory disease of the central nervous system with preferential involvement in the optic nerve and spinal cord with a widespread spectrum of clinical features; multiple therapeutic agents have been used with different results. Recent evidence points to B-cell-mediated humoral immunity in the pathogenesis of NMO. Rituximab targets the CD20 antigen on B-cells. Treatment leads to profound B-cell depletion, principally over an antibody-dependent cell cytotoxicity mechanism. The aim of our study was to review clinical trials to elucidate the impact of rituximab on the relapse rate, Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS, and progression of disability in NMO. We performed a comprehensive review of all studies that evaluated clinical and paraclinical effects of rituximab on NMO. MEDLINE-PubMed, Web of Sciences, EMBASE, and Cochrane databases up to June 2016 included in our searches. In addition, reference lists from articles identified by search as well as a key review article to identify additional articles included in the study. Rituximab targets the CD20 antigen on B-cells and decreases attack frequency and severity in patients with NMO; however, it does not remove attacks, even when modifying treatment to achieve B-cell depletion. Most of the investigations revealed that EDSS significantly in all patients with rituximab treatment will be decreased after treatment with rituximab. No new or enlarged lesions or pathological gadolinium enhancement was observed in serial brain and spinal cord magnetic resonance imaging, except for those observed concomitantly with clinical relapses and the median length of spinal cord lesions was significantly reduced after therapy. Rituximab targets the CD20 antigen and decreases attack frequency and severity in patients with NMO.

  9. Quantitative analysis of collagen and elastic fibers in the transversalis fascia in direct and indirect inguinal hernia Análise quantitativa do colágeno e de fibras elásticas na fascia transversal de pacientes com hernia inguinal direta e indireta

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Aldo Junqueira Rodrigues Junior

    2002-01-01

    Full Text Available PURPOSE: Our previous studies demonstrated structural and quantitative age-related changes of the elastic fibers in transversalis fascia, which may play a role in inguinal hernia formation. To verify whether there were differences in the extracellular matrix between direct and indirect inguinal hernia, we studied the amount of collagen and elastic fibers in the transversalis fascia of 36 male patients with indirect inguinal hernia and 21 with direct inguinal hernia. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Transversalis fascia fragments were obtained during surgical intervention and underwent histological quantitative analysis of collagen by colorimetry and analysis of elastic fibers by histomorphometry. RESULTS: We demonstrated significantly lower amounts of collagen and higher amounts of elastic fibers in transversalis fascia from patients with direct inguinal hernia compared to indirect inguinal hernia patients. The transversalis fascia from direct inguinal hernia patients showed structural changes of the mature and elaunin elastic fibers, which are responsible for elasticity, and lower density of oxytalan elastic fibers, which are responsible for resistance. These changes promoted loss of resiliency of the transversalis fascia. CONCLUSION: These results improve our understanding of the participation of the extracellular matrix in the genesis of direct inguinal hernia, suggesting a relationship with genetic defects of the elastic fiber and collagen synthesis.OBJETIVO: Estudos prévios nossos demonstraram alterações estruturais e quantitativas de fibras elásticas na fascia transversal com o envelhecimento, tendo papel na gênese da hérnia inguinal. Com o objetivo de verificar diferenças na matriz extracellular da fascia transversal de pacientes com hernia inguinal direta e indireta, quantificamos o colágeno e as fibras elásticas na fascia transversal de 36 pacientes masculinos com hernia inguinal indireta e 21 pacientes masculinos com hernia inguinal

  10. Investigación, desarrollo e innovación de compósitos de fibras naturales aglutinados con cemento portland ordinario.

    OpenAIRE

    Macías Almazán, Aarón

    2015-01-01

    El presente trabajo se basa en la elaboración de tableros aglomerados con mayor o menor proporción de mezcla cemento:bagazo de caña de azucar, utilizando tratamientos de molienda para disminuir y homogenizar el tamaño de partícula, disminución de extractos y azúcares para el bagazo, así como dos diferentes tratamientos de mineralización superficial para la fibra para mejorar su compatibilidad con la matriz de cemento, uno con Ca(OH)2 y otro con Na2SiO3. Se elaboraron probeta...

  11. Efeito do tratamento do canal radicular com EDTA na retenção de pinos de fibra de vidro

    OpenAIRE

    Luis Alfonso Arana Gordillo

    2010-01-01

    A proposição deste estudo foi analisar o efeito do tratamento da dentina radicular com EDTA na retenção de pinos de fibra de vidro utilizando dois tipos diferentes de cimentos resinosos. Foram utilizados 40 dentes humanos pré-molares hígidos. Após a extração os dentes foram armazenados em água até seu uso. Em seguida, os dentes foram tratados endodonticamente com técnica step back para ser obturados por condensação lateral com cones de guta percha e cimento endodôntico AH Plus. Após a obturaç...

  12. Biscoitos de polvilho azedo enriquecidos com fibras solúveis e insolúveis Fermented cassava starch biscuits enriched with soluble and insoluble fibers

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Flavio Martins Montenegro

    2008-12-01

    Full Text Available O presente trabalho avaliou a utilização de farelo de trigo e polidextrose como fontes de fibra no enriquecimento de biscoitos de polvilho. Utilizou-se a Metodologia de Superfície de Resposta para verificar a influência da adição destes ingredientes nos parâmetros de qualidade dos biscoitos. As respostas avaliadas do planejamento experimental fatorial completo 2² foram o volume específico, a dureza instrumental, a umidade e a cor - parâmetros L, a* e b*. Para as respostas: volume específico e dureza instrumental, todos os fatores foram significativos, a 95% de confiança, com R² = 0,9307 e 0,8091, respectivamente. Pela análise das superfícies geradas, pode-se observar que o farelo de trigo e a polidextrose reduziram o volume específico e o farelo teve maior efeito no aumento da dureza. A substituição de polvilho azedo por farelo de trigo e polidextrose nas proporções de 1,5 e 5%, respectivamente, gerou uma amostra rica em fibras, com 6,23% de fibra alimentar (calculado teoricamente, sem prejuízo considerável para as características de expansão e dureza, e com boa aceitação sensorial.This work evaluated the use of wheat bran and polidextrose as fiber sources to enrich fermented cassava starch biscuits. The Response Surface Methodology was used to verify the influence of the addition of these fiber sources on the quality parameters of the biscuits. The responses of the 2² central composite rotational experimental design that were evaluated were specific volume, hardness, and moisture and color - parameters L, a*, and b*. For the specific volume and hardness responses, all factors were significant: 95% confidence level, with R² of 0.9307 and 0.8091, respectively. Analyzing the surfaces obtained it could be observed that the wheat bran and polidextrose reduced the specific volume and the wheat bran had a greater effect in increasing hardness. The substitution of fermented cassava starch by wheat bran and polidextrose in

  13. Revisión del empleo de fibras de acero en hormigones autocompactantes = Review of the steel fibers use in concrete self-compacting

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Gabriela Vega

    2016-12-01

    Full Text Available En la actualidad el hormigón es un material indispensable en la construcción. Tiene muchas ventajas, entre las que destaca su alta resistencia a compresión, pero a su vez presenta algunas deficiencias sobre las que se va a centrar este documento. Entre las deficiencias más destacables están la baja resistencia a tracción del material y su comportamiento frágil. Por ello desde sus orígenes se ha intentado cubrir esas deficiencias utilizando diferentes tipos de materiales para reforzar y complementar las capacidades estructurales del hormigón. La incorporación de fibras en este material ha ido implantándose en el mercado ya que gracias a sus características ayudan a abaratar los costos de ejecución y a una sustitución parcial o total de la armadura. En este trabajo se hará un repaso a al uso de los hormigones autocompactantes en la construcción y a las diferentes tipos de fibras que pueden aplicarse al hormigón convencional para la mejora de la tenacidad, control de fisuración y resistencia a flexotracción, con el fin de elaborar un hormigón autocompactante con fibras de acero que reúna las características propias del hormigón y que optimice algunos aspectos del mismos. Abstract Concrete is now an indispensable material in construction. It has many advantages, including its high resistance to compression, but in turn presents some deficiencies on which this document will be focused. Among the most notable deficiencies are the low tensile strength of the material and its brittle behavior. Therefore, from the outset, attempts have been made to cover these deficiencies by using different types of materials to reinforce and complement the structural capacities of concrete. The incorporation of fibers in this material has been implanted in the market since, thanks to their characteristics, they help to reduce the execution costs and to a partial or total replacement of the armature. This work will review the use of self

  14. Differentiating neuromyelitis optica from other causes of longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis on spinal magnetic resonance imaging

    Science.gov (United States)

    Pekcevik, Yeliz; Mitchell, Charles H; Mealy, Maureen A; Orman, Gunes; Lee, In H; Newsome, Scott D; Thompson, Carol B; Pardo, Carlos A; Calabresi, Peter A; Levy, Michael; Izbudak, Izlem

    2016-01-01

    Background Although spinal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings of neuromyelitis optica (NMO) have been described, there is limited data available that help differentiate NMO from other causes of longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis (LETM). Objective To investigate the spinal MRI findings of LETM that help differentiate NMO at the acute stage from multiple sclerosis (MS) and other causes of LETM. Methods We enrolled 94 patients with LETM into our study. Bright spotty lesions (BSL), the lesion distribution and location were evaluated on axial T2-weighted images. Brainstem extension, cord expansion, T1 darkness and lesion enhancement were noted. We also reviewed the brain MRI of the patients during LETM. Results Patients with NMO had a greater amount of BSL and T1 dark lesions (p < 0.001 and 0.003, respectively). The lesions in NMO patients were more likely to involve greater than one-half of the spinal cord’s cross-sectional area; to enhance and be centrally-located, or both centrally- and peripherally-located in the cord. Of the 62 available brain MRIs, 14 of the 27 whom were NMO patients had findings that may be specific to NMO. Conclusions Certain spinal cord MRI features are more commonly seen in NMO patients and so obtaining brain MRI during LETM may support diagnosis. PMID:26209588

  15. Spinal cord lesions in patients with neuromyelitis optica: a retrospective long-term MRI follow-up study

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Krampla, Wolfgang; Hruby, Walter [SMZ-Ost Donauspital, Department of Radiology, Vienna (Austria); Aboul-Enein, Fahmy; Jecel, Julia; Kristoferitsch, Wolfgang [SMZ-Ost Donauspital, Department of Neurology, Vienna (Austria); Lang, Wilfried [Hospital of Barmherzige Brueder, Department of Neurology, Vienna (Austria); Fertl, Elisabeth [Krankenanstalt Rudolfstiftung, Department of Neurology, Vienna (Austria)

    2009-10-15

    Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) is characterised by a particular pattern of the optic nerves and the spinal cord. Long-term MRI follow-up studies of spinal NMO lesions are rare, or limited by short observation periods. In nine patients with definite NMO or recurrent longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis (LETM) with NMO-IgG serum antibodies, repeated MRI examinations of the spine were carried out over a period of up to 11 years and evaluated regarding the changes over time in this retrospective study. In eight patients spinal cord lesions were located centrally, involving the grey and white matter. In the first examination after clinical onset changes resembled a stroke of the anterior spinal artery in two patients. Symmetrical signal alterations within the grey matter were observed. In one patient this pattern was transient, but it remained in the other. During the chronic stage, either a variable degree of spinal cord atrophy and high signal alterations, or almost complete remission of the lesions, was observed. Spinal MRI of patients with NMO myelitis can resemble a stroke. MRI of acute NMO stages did not allow a prediction of the clinical outcome. To a variable degree, NMO left behind typical defects which correlated with the clinical outcome. (orig.)

  16. Spinal cord lesions in patients with neuromyelitis optica: a retrospective long-term MRI follow-up study

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Krampla, Wolfgang; Hruby, Walter; Aboul-Enein, Fahmy; Jecel, Julia; Kristoferitsch, Wolfgang; Lang, Wilfried; Fertl, Elisabeth

    2009-01-01

    Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) is characterised by a particular pattern of the optic nerves and the spinal cord. Long-term MRI follow-up studies of spinal NMO lesions are rare, or limited by short observation periods. In nine patients with definite NMO or recurrent longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis (LETM) with NMO-IgG serum antibodies, repeated MRI examinations of the spine were carried out over a period of up to 11 years and evaluated regarding the changes over time in this retrospective study. In eight patients spinal cord lesions were located centrally, involving the grey and white matter. In the first examination after clinical onset changes resembled a stroke of the anterior spinal artery in two patients. Symmetrical signal alterations within the grey matter were observed. In one patient this pattern was transient, but it remained in the other. During the chronic stage, either a variable degree of spinal cord atrophy and high signal alterations, or almost complete remission of the lesions, was observed. Spinal MRI of patients with NMO myelitis can resemble a stroke. MRI of acute NMO stages did not allow a prediction of the clinical outcome. To a variable degree, NMO left behind typical defects which correlated with the clinical outcome. (orig.)

  17. Avaliação da resistência a fadiga dos Engineered Cementitious Composites (ecc, reforçados com fibra de polipropileno e produzidos com adição de cinza de casca de arroz

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Alceu Lopes de Freitas Júnior

    2017-07-01

    Full Text Available O Engineered Cementitious Composites - ECC – é um tipo especial de compósito cimentício de alto desempenho reforçado com fibra, cuja principal característica é a alta ductilidade. O traço de ECC é composto por cimento, material pozolânico, agregado miúdo e fibras. Este estudo avaliou a resistência à fadiga de traços de Engineered Cementitious Composites reforçados com fibras de polipropileno - PPECC – e cuja composição da matriz cimentícia tenha a incorporação de cinza de casca de arroz como material suplementar. Para isto, foram produzidos corpos de prova com substrato de concreto para pavimento e overlay com o traço de PPECC desenvolvido. Os corpos de prova foram submetidos aos ensaios de flexão a quatro pontos (estático e cíclico. Compararam-se os resultados obtidos no ensaio estático dos traços de PPECC com os resultados obtidos neste mesmo ensaio com corpos de prova produzidos somente por concreto para pavimento. Foram analisados os resultados dos ensaios cíclicos em diferentes intervalos de tensões. Com os resultados variação da tensão x números de ciclos, obtidos no ensaio cíclico, foi avaliado o comportamento à fadiga do compósito.

  18. Anti-N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor(NMDAR) antibody encephalitis presents in atypical types and coexists with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder or neurosyphilis.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Qin, Kaiyu; Wu, Wenqing; Huang, Yuming; Xu, Dongmei; Zhang, Lei; Zheng, Bowen; Jiang, Meijuan; Kou, Cheng; Gao, Junhua; Li, Wurong; Zhang, Jinglin; Wang, Sumei; Luan, Yanfei; Yan, Chaoling; Xu, Dan; Zheng, Xinmei

    2017-01-05

    Anti-N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) encephalitis is a clinically heterogeneous disorder characterized by epileptic seizures, psychosis, dyskinesia, consciousness impairments, and autonomic instability. Symptoms are always various. Sometimes it presents in milder or incomplete forms. We report 4 cases of anti-NMDAR encephalitis with incomplete forms, 3 cases of which were accompanied by neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder or neurosyphilis respectively. A 33-year-old man presented with dysarthria, movement disorder and occasional seizures. He had 6 relapses in 28 years. When suffered from upper respiratory tract syndrome, he developed behavioral and consciousness impairment. Cranial MRI was normal. Viral PCR studies and oncologic work-up were negative. Anti-NMDAR antibody was detected in CSF and serum. A 21-year-old female manifested dizziness and diplopia ten months and six months before, respectively. Both responded to steroid therapy and improved completely. This time she presented with progressive left limb and facial anesthesia, walking and holding unsteadily. Spinal cord MRI follow-up showed abnormality of medulla oblongata and cervical cord(C1). Anti-AQP4 and anti-NMDAR were positive in CSF. Steroid-pulse therapy ameliorated her symptoms. A 37-year-old male experienced worsening vision. He was confirmed neurosyphilis since the CSF tests for syphilis were positive. Protein was elevated and the oligoclonal IgG bands(OB) and anti-NMDAR was positive in CSF. Anti-aquaporin 4(AQP4) antibodies and NMO-IgG were negative. Cranial MRI showed high FLAIR signal on frontal lobe and low T2 signal adjacent to the right cornu posterious ventriculi lateralis. Treatment for neurosyphlis was commenced with gradual improvement. A 39-year-old male, developed serious behavioral and psychiatric symptoms. Examination showed abnormal pupils and unsteady gait. He was confirmed neurosyphilis according to the CSF tests for syphilis. Anti-NMDAR was positive in CSF and serum

  19. Substratos de fibra de coco granulada e casca de arroz para a produção do morangueiro ‘Oso Grande’

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Thais Queiroz Zorzeto

    2016-01-01

    Full Text Available RESUMO O morangueiro, cultivado em solo, torna-se suscetível a fungos nele presentes. Rotações de áreas de plantio são fundamentais para o manejo fitossanitário, realidade impraticável para alguns produtores brasileiros com áreas reduzidas para o cultivo. Essa problemática incentivou o uso de substratos, padrão técnico já bem estabelecido na Europa. O objetivo foi avaliar a resposta do morangueiro (‘Oso Grande’ em três tipos de substratos (fibra de coco granulada, casca de arroz pura e a mistura dos dois em iguais proporções, volumes (1,0; 1,5 e 2,0 L e frequências de irrigação (duas, três e quatro vezes por dia. O experimento foi realizado em casa de vegetação, em Jundiaí (SP, no período de 2 de julho a 4 de outubro de 2010. Os dados foram submetidos à análise conjunta de experimentos, em esquema fatorial triplo (frequências de irrigação, tipos de substratos e volumes de substrato. O melhor resultado foi para a mistura de substratos, irrigada três vezes por dia, em 1,0 L do material, com produtividade média de 223 g por planta. A casca de arroz é ineficiente para o cultivo em vaso. Entretanto, na forma de misturas, esse substrato torna-se adequado ao cultivo, possibilitando melhores resultados quando comparado à fibra de coco granulada.

  20. Evaluación de las propiedades de materiales compuestos fabricados a partir de fibras semiquímicas de Leucaena collinsii y polipropileno

    OpenAIRE

    Granda Garcia, Luis Angel

    2016-01-01

    La presente tesis estudia el efecto que produce reforzar una fibra semiquímica de Leucaena collinsii en las propiedades mecánicas, térmicas y de sorción de agua de materiales compuestos de polipropileno. Se obtienen probetas de materiales compuestos con distinto contenido de refuerzo y se estabilizan en una cámara climática durante 48 horas antes de ser ensayadas a tracción, flexión e impacto, y se analiza la morfologia de la fractura mediante SEM. Posteriormente se estudian sus propiedad...

  1. Influencia da largura do corpo-de-prova na medida da tenacidade do concreto reforçado com fibras de aço

    OpenAIRE

    Ana Maria Oliveira Villares

    2001-01-01

    Resumo: A quantificação da tenacidade dos concretos reforçados com fibras de aço (CRFA) pode ser afetada por diversos fatores, dependendo do método adotado e do procedimento para realizar o ensaio de flexão sob deformação controlada. Esses fatores incluem entre outros: configuração do ensaio, configuração do carregamento, taxa e controle do carregamento, tipo de equipamento para medida do deslocamento vertical, tipo de máquina; temperatura ambiente, tamanho e geometria do corpo-de-prova. A an...

  2. Anti-Aquaporin-4 Antibody-Positive Neuromyelitis Optica Presenting with Syndrome of Inappropriate Antidiuretic Hormone Secretion as an Initial Manifestation

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    H. Nakajima

    2011-10-01

    Full Text Available The distribution of neuromyelitis optica (NMO-characteristic brain lesions corresponds to sites of high aquaporin-4 (AQP4 expression, and the brainstem and hypothalamus lesions that express high levels of AQP4 protein are relatively characteristic of NMO. The syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion (SIADH is one of the important causes of hyponatremia and results from an abnormal production or sustained secretion of antidiuretic hormone (ADH. SIADH has been associated with many clinical states or syndromes, and the hypothalamic-neurohypophyseal system regulates the feedback control system for ADH secretion. We report the case of a 63-year-old man with NMO, whose initial manifestation was hyponatremia caused by SIADH. Retrospective analysis revealed that the serum anti-AQP4 antibody was positive, and an MRI scan showed a unilateral lesion in the hypothalamus. SIADH recovered completely with regression of the hypothalamic lesion. As such, NMO should even be considered in patients who develop SIADH and have no optic nerve or spinal cord lesions but have MRI-documented hypothalamic lesions.

  3. A voxel-based morphometry study of brain volume changes in patients with neuromyelitis optica

    International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

    Duan Yunyun; Liu Yaou; Liang Peipeng; Huang Jing; Ren Zhuoqiong; Ye Jing; Dong Huiqing; Chen Hai; Li Kuncheng

    2012-01-01

    Objective: To detect changes of regional grey matter and white matter volume in patients of neuromyelitis optica (NMO) by voxel-based morphometry (VBM), and investigate its relationship with clinical variables. Methods: Conventional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and structural three-dimensional MRI were obtained from 20 NMO and 20 sex-and age-matched healthy volunteers. The comparison of grey matter and white matter volume between the two groups was analyzed by VBM tools of statistical parametric mapping (SPM) 5. Pearson correlation analysis was used to assess correlations between regional volume decrease and disease duration and expanded disability status scale (EDSS) scores in NMO patients. Results: Compared with normal controls, NMO patients had grey matter atrophy in several cortical regions, such as right inferior frontal gyrus (cluster size 514), left superior temporal gyrus (282), right middle temporal gyrus (229) and right insula (211) (t=3.58-5.11, AlphaSim corrected, P<0.05). White matter atrophy was found in several subcortical regions in NMO patients, such as right precentral and postcentral gyrus (cluster size 457, 110), left middle frontal gyrus (285), and right inferior parietal lobule (231) (t=2.90-4.25, AlphaSim corrected, P<0.05). Grey matter and white matter volume loss were not significantly correlated with clinical duration or EDSS score in NMO. Conclusion: By means of VBM, regional atrophy of grey matter and white matter is found in NMO patients, which may provide evidence for brain structural abnormality in NMO. (authors)

  4. Influencia del proceso de fibrilación y desfibrilación enzimática en las propiedades mecánicas de hilos de fibras celulósicas regeneradas obtenidas por el proceso NMMO

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Carrillo, F.

    2001-04-01

    Full Text Available Fibre spinning from a solution of cellulose in N-methyl-morpholine-N-oxidehydrate is an environmentally friendly process (NMMO, which yields cellulose fibres with excellent mechanical properties. A special feature of these fibbers is their ability to fibrillate in the swollen state. It is possible to control and exploit fibrillation of this kind of fibre (generic name: lyocell through mechanical fibrillation and enzymatic defibrillation treatments. The mechanical properties (elongation at break. Young's modulus, tensile strenght and tenacity of solvent (NMMO-spun lyocell yarns samples have been studied in untreated condition as well as after industrial mechanical fibrillation and enzymatic defibrillation treatments. It is observed that the tenacity of lyocell yarn decreases greatly as a result of the treatments, particularly after the enzymatic treatment. For this reason, the control of these operations plays a critical role in ensuring acceptable mechanical properties of the yarns.

    La obtención de fibras hiladas a partir de una solución de celulosa en N-óxido de N-metilmorfolina hidratado permite obtener fibras de celulosa regenerada, con excelentes propiedades mecánicas por medio de un proceso industrial no contaminante (proceso NMMO. Sin embargo, estas fibras presentan una propiedad especial, su elevada fibrilación, principalmente durante los tratamientos en húmedo, que es posible controlar y explotar mediante las etapas de fibrilación mecánica y desfibrilación enzimática de los productos fabricados. En el presente trabajo se estudiaron las propiedades mecánicas (deformación a la rotura, módulo de Young, resistencia máxima a la tracción y tenacidad de muestras de hilo de esta nueva fibra, evaluando la influencia de los tratamientos industriales de fibrilación mecánica y desfibrilación enzimática. Se observó que la tenacidad y la resistencia a la rotura de las muestras disminuyen significativamente después de estos

  5. Validation of a new fiber electrode prototype for clinical electroretinography Validação de protótipo de um novo eletrodo de fibra para eletrorretinografia clínica

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Adriana Berezovsky

    2008-06-01

    prototype provided stable and safe recordings of corneal electroretinograms compared to the commercially availabe DTL® electrode in healthy human subjects. The prototype is a feasible alternative instrument for clinical electroretinography recording to assess retinal function, however further analysis is recommended to validate its clinical usefulness in patients with retinal disorders.OBJETIVO: Validar um novo protótipo de um eletrodo de fibra para eletrorretinografia clínica (ERG. MÉTODOS: Foi testado em um grupo de 20 voluntários saudáveis (17-31 anos; média 22,7 ± 4,5; 8 homens, um protótipo de eletrodo de fibra com referência acoplado descartável recentemente desenvolvido (depósito de patente no Instituto Nacional de Propriedade Intelectual # PI0602186-7, constando de uma fibra de sinais corneanos e uma segunda fibra servindo como referência. Após 30 minutos de adaptação ao escuro, as respostas de cones e bastonetes da eletrorretinografia foram registradas simultaneamente com dilatação completa das pupilas em ambos os olhos, com o protótipo de eletrodo de fibra com referência acoplado em um olho escolhido ao acaso e um eletrodo DTL® no outro olho. Após a apresentação dos estímulos escotópicos e fotópicos cada resposta foi analisada em amplitude e tempo de culminação das ondas a e b. O sistema VERIS 5.1.9 foi usado para a aquisição e análise dos dados. Os resultados da eletrorretinografia foram analisados pelo teste de Mann-Whitney. Após a sessão da eletrorretinografia foi feito exame em lâmpada de fenda para avaliar possíveis eventos adversos. RESULTADOS: As respostas obtidas com o protótipo de eletrodo de fibra com referência acoplado foram comparáveis às do eletrodo DTL® comercialmente disponível. Numa análise qualitativa, o eletrodo de fibra com referência acoplado produziu sinais com menos ruído. Na média, a amplitude escotópica da eletrorretinografia e o tempo de culminação da onda-b usando o eletrodo DTL® foram

  6. Efeito de aditivos desaerantes nas características de compósitos de epóxi/fibras de vidro

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Alexsandro Oliveira

    2014-01-01

    Full Text Available A presença de vazios é um importante fator a afetar as propriedades de compósitos poliméricos. Existem várias causas para a formação de vazios, entre elas, o aprisionamento de gás (frequentemente gás úmido durante o processo de impregnação dos reforços fibrosos com resina e os voláteis gerados durante a formulação da resina. A quantidade de bolhas de ar aprisionadas pode ser, por vezes, reduzida se o sistema de resina é sujeito a um processo de desgaseificação por vácuo ou pelo uso de aditivos químicos especiais. O objetivo deste trabalho é investigar o efeito de um agente desaerante nas propriedades finais de compósitos de resina epóxi moldados pelo processo de RTM utilizando como reforço mantas e tecidos de fibras de vidro. Os compósitos produzidos foram avaliados quanto as suas propriedades de tração, flexão, dureza, short beam e análise dinâmico mecânica (DMA. Em geral, a utilização do aditivo desaerante não provocou alterações significativas nas propriedades mecânicas, tais como resistência e módulo de tração e flexão, as quais são determinadas principalmente pelo tipo e fração volumétrica de fibras. Contudo, os resultados de resistência ao cisalhamento e de dureza mostram um efeito positivo com a inclusão do agente desaerante, levando à melhora na qualidade dos compósitos.

  7. Thermal behavior of building materials based in woody fibers; Comportamiento termico de materiales constructivos a base de fibras lenosas

    Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

    Flores Murrieta, Fernando E; Bojorquez Baez, Inocente; Llovera Esteban, Arturo; Hernandez Rodriguez, Jose [Universidad de Quintana Roo, Chetumal, Quintana Roo (Mexico); Perez Sanchez, Maria M [Universidad Autonoma de Yucatan, Merida (Mexico)

    2000-07-01

    A Test development to obtain the thermal conductivity and the study of thermal performance of building materials by a device of the Guarded Hot Plate (25 x 24.8 cm) according to standards ASTM C 518-91 and C 717-97, in a range of low temperatures (23-50 Celsius degrees) are presented in this work. The device consist of a structure whit: heat source system; heat dissipator system; plates and specimens fastener, and assembly of thermocouples and insulated plates. Subsequently in the experiments, will be necessary to reach a steady state to different temperatures for monitoring the thermal gradient. Another side, considering the electric power of the overall system and the modified Fouriers equation for two specimens, we can obtain the thermal conductivity, for instance: Plaster; woods and new materials based on woody fibers. [Spanish] En este trabajo se presenta el estudio del comportamiento termico y desarrollo de prueba de conductividad termica tanto en materiales de construccion como aquellos basado en fibras lenosas en un rango de bajas temperaturas (23-50 grados Celsius). De acuerdo con las normas ASTM C-518-91 y C-177-97, se utiliza un dispositivo de placa caliente guardada de 25 x 24.8 cm. que requiere de dos muestras identicas de especimenes diferentes colocadas entre una fuente de calor y una fuente fria aisladas termicamente. Se presenta el desarrollo experimental para determinar la conductividad termica en estado estacionario a varias temperaturas de operacion en materiales constructivos tales como: yeso, madera de pino y a base de fibra lenosa. Los dos primeros materiales se han utilizado como referencia en la comparacion de las propiedades termofisicas que aparecen en la bibliografia tecnica. Lo cual nos permite tener un buen grado de confiabilidad en el dispositivo utilizado en la determinacion de dichas propiedades.

  8. Caracterização mecânica e térmica de compósitos de poli (cloreto de vinila reforçados com fibras de sisal Mechanical and thermal characterization of the polyvinyl chloride-sisal fibers composites

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Gilson S. Martins

    2004-12-01

    Full Text Available Compósitos de PVC, plastificados com diferentes sistemas de plastificação e reforçados com fibras de sisal, foram processados em moinho de dois rolos. A influência do tipo e teor do plastificante, do comprimento e do teor das fibras nas propriedades dos compósitos obtidos foi estudada. Dois tipos de plastificantes foram usados, um líquido (do tipo poliéster e um sólido permanente (copolímero etileno/ acetato de vinila/ monóxido de carbono. As fibras usadas foram previamente lavadas com água a 80 °C por uma hora. Os compósitos, com fibras curtas aleatoriamente distribuídas, foram caracterizados através de ensaio mecânico de resistência à tração, microscopia eletrônica de varredura (MEV, e análises térmicas de calorimetria exploratória diferencial (DSC e análise por termogravimetria (TG. O comprimento ótimo de fibra obtido para os compósitos foi de 6 mm. O uso do plastificante sólido mostrou-se viável e promoveu uma maior molhabilidade da fibra pela matriz nos compósitos, principalmente para teores acima de 40 pcr. As análises térmicas mostraram que a substituição do plastificante líquido pelo plastificante sólido não afetou a estabilidade térmica das matrizes e dos compósitos.Composites consisting of flexible polyvinyl chloride (PVC, plasticized with two different types of plasticizers and reinforced with sisal fibers, were processed on a two-roll mixing mill. Two plasticizers were used, a liquid plasticizer (polyester and a permanent solid plasticizer (ethylene/ vinyl acetate/ carbon monoxide copolymer - Elvaloy® , to form two kinds of polymeric matrices. For each one of these matrices, the influence of plasticizers type, plasticizers content, size and quantity of sisal fibers in the composite properties has been studied. The fibers were washed with water at 80 °C during one hour. The composites with randomly distributed short fibers were characterized by mechanical analysis, scanning electron microscopy

  9. Modificação da fibra de coco com polianilina e o seu uso como sensor de pressão Coconut fibers modified with polyaniline nanoparticles are used in pressure sensor

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Fernando G. de Souza Jr

    2011-01-01

    Full Text Available O presente trabalho teve por foco a modificação de fibras de coco, tornando-as materiais compósitos condutores de eletricidade. Para tanto, foi utilizada uma técnica de polimerização in situ, capaz de gerar nanopartículas de polianilina sobre a superfície de fibras tratadas. As fibras modificadas com polianilina foram caracterizadas por FTIR, UV-Vis, DRX e SAXS. Além disso, foram submetidas a ensaios eletromecânicos, com a finalidade de indicar quais condições de modificação são mais eficientes para a obtenção de um material sensível a esforços compressivos. Os resultados de sensibilidade a compressão sugerem que os materiais modificados com as menores quantidades de polianilina são os mais adequados para aplicações no campo de sensores de pressão de natureza resistiva, podendo ser utilizados no desenvolvimento de dispositivos inteligentes.Coconut fibers were covered with polyaniline in order to obtain electrically conductive composite materials. For this purpose aniline was polymerized in the presence of coconut fibers, leading to the formation of polyaniline nanoparticles over the surface of the fibers. The treated fibers were analyzed by FTIR, UV-Vis, DRX and SAXS, being also submitted to electromechanical assays, in order to find the best conditions for obtaining materials with optimal compressional sensitivity. The results suggest that materials obtained with smaller amounts of polyaniline are the most adequate for applications as resistive pressure sensors. This class of materials can be used in the development of intelligent devices.

  10. Variants of Interferon Regulatory Factor 5 are Associated with Neither Neuromyelitis Optica Nor Multiple Sclerosis in the Southeastern Han Chinese Population

    Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China (English)

    Qi-Bing Liu; Lei Wu; Gui-Xian Zhao; Ping-Ping Cai; Zhen-Xin Li; Zhi-Ying Wu

    2015-01-01

    Background:Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) and multiple sclerosis (MS) are demyelinating disorders of the central nervous system.Interferon regulatory factor 5 (IRF5) is a common susceptibility gene to different autoimmune disorders.However,the association of IRF5 variants with NMO and MS patients has not been well studied.Therefore,we aimed to evaluate whether IRF5 variants were associated with NMO and MS in the Southeastern Han Chinese population.Methods:Four single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were selected and genotyped by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time of flight mass spectrometry in 111 NMO patients,145 MS patients and 300 controls from Southeastern China.Results:None of these 4 SNPs was associated with NMO or MS patients.Conclusions:Our preliminary study indicates that genetic variants in IRF5 may affect neither NMO nor MS in the Southeastern Han Chinese population.Further studies with a large sample size and diverse ancestry populations are needed to clarify this issue.

  11. Fibra na ração de crescimento e seus efeitos no desempenho de poedeiras nas fases de crescimento e postura

    OpenAIRE

    Braz,Nádia de Melo; Freitas,Ednardo Rodrigues; Bezerra,Roseane Madeira; Cruz,Carlos Eduardo Braga; Farias,Nadja Naiara Pereira; Silva,Nemuel Muniz da; Sá,Newton Lima; Xavier,Regina Patrícia de Souza

    2011-01-01

    Objetivou-se com esta pesquisa avaliar os efeitos dos níveis de fibra em detergente neutro (FDN) das rações oferecidas para as aves entre a 7ª e 17ª semanas de idade sobre o desempenho, o desenvolvimento dos sistemas digestório e reprodutor, bem como os efeitos na maturidade sexual, no desempenho e na qualidade dos ovos na fase de postura.Foram distribuídas 1.296 aves em delineamento inteiramente casualizado em esquema fatorial 3 × 2, composto de três níveis de FDN e duas linhagens, com quatr...

  12. Produção de biscoitos extrusados de polvilho azedo com fibras: efeito de parâmetros operacionais sobre as propriedades físicas Production of snacks from sour cassava starch and fiber: effect of operational parameters on physical properties

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Karina Fernandes de Camargo

    2008-09-01

    Full Text Available Neste trabalho buscou-se avaliar o efeito de parâmetros operacionais do processo de extrusão no desenvolvimento de biscoitos de polvilho com fibras, utilizando como matérias-primas o polvilho azedo e o farelo de mandioca. O processamento foi realizado em um extrusor mono-rosca, sendo considerados parâmetros variáveis: temperatura na 3ª zona de extrusão, umidade e porcentagem de fibras na mistura. Para analisar o efeito combinado das variáveis independentes nas características tecnológicas dos extrusados, utilizou-se o delineamento 'central composto rotacional' para três fatores. Os resultados obtidos mostraram efeitos significativos da umidade e porcentagem de fibras sobre o volume específico, sendo que a temperatura afetou os índices de solubilidade e absorção de água dos produtos extrusados. Condições de baixa temperatura (65 °C, baixa umidade (12% e baixo teor de fibras (The purpose of this work was to evaluate the effect of operational extrusion parameters on the production of cassava fiber snacks from sour cassava starch and cassava bagasse. Processing was carried out in a single-screw extruder, with temperature in the third extrusion zone, moisture and fiber percentage as independent variables. In order to evaluate the effect of the independent variables on technological characteristics of the snacks, a central composite design with three factors was used. The results showed significant effects of moisture and fiber percentage on specific volume, and extrusion temperature had effects on Water Solubility Index (WSI and Water Absorption Index (WAI. Products with good technological characteristics can be produced at low temperature (65 °C, low fiber (<4% and low moisture (12% conditions.

  13. Eficiência de métodos de melhoramento para teor de fibra e produtividade de grãos em progênies de feijoeiro comum

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Adélia Cristina Fernandes Silva

    2013-01-01

    Full Text Available O objetivo deste estudo foi comparar métodos de melhoramento quanto à variabilidade genética e à eficiência na obtenção de progênies superiores para teor de fibra bruta e produtividade de grãos em feijoeiro comum. As progênies foram obtidas do cruzamento, em 2003, entre as linhagens carioca CNFC 7812 e CNFC 7829. A população segregante foi conduzida por bulk, bulk dentro de F2 e SSD até geração F7. Em 2008 foram amostradas aleatoriamente 64 progênies de cada método para avaliação em Goiás e Paraná. Foram obtidas as estimativas dos componentes de variância, parâmetros genéticos e fenotípicos, média e índices de geração de progênies superiores. As progênies obtidas pelos métodos de bulk e SSD apresentaram diferenças significativas para produtividade e teor de fibra bruta e maior variância genética. O bulk dentro de F2 apresentou os maiores índices de geração de progênies superiores e maiores médias para os dois caracteres, sendo recomendado para os programas de melhoramento de feijoeiro comum.

  14. Caracterización de la Funcionalidad Tecnológica de una Fuente Rica en Fibra Dietaria Obtenida a partir de Cáscara de Plátano / Characterization of Technological Functionality of Dietary Fiber Rich Source Obtained from Plantain Peel

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Alarcón García Miguel Ángel

    2013-08-01

    Full Text Available Resumen. Con el objetivo de obtener la fuente de fibra dietaria y realizar su caracterización, cáscaras de plátano verde (Musa AAB fueron sometidas a un proceso industrial que involucró etapas de selección, lavado, troceado, secado (hasta alcanzar una humedad final del 5% y molido. El proceso completo presentó un rendimiento de 2% en fuente de fibra de cáscara de plátano (FFCP. Se determinaron valores de fibra dietaria total (FDT; 46,79%, fibra dietaria soluble (FDS; 1,68% y fibra dietaria insoluble (FDI; 45,12%. El material resultante fue sometido al efecto de la temperatura utilizando 2 niveles (temperatura ambiente, 20 ºC, y temperatura de escaldado para productos cárnicos, 74 °C y bajo estas condiciones fue caracterizado en términos de capacidad de absorción de agua, capacidad de absorción de aceite, capacidad de retención de agua y capacidad de absorción de moléculas orgánicas; variables que no presentaron diferencias estadísticamente significativas, a excepción de la capacidad de absorción de aceite. Por lo anterior, puede concluirse que la FFCP corresponde a un recurso con aptitud para su inclusión en matrices alimenticias tipo cárnicas. / Abstract. Green plantain peels (Musa AAB were subjected to an industrial process involving selection, washing, chopping, drying (until reach a final moisture content of 5% and grounding steps with the aim of obtaining a source of dietary fiber and perform their characterization. The total process yield was 2% as a fiber source plantain peel (FSPP. Values for total dietary fiber (TDF; 46.79%, soluble dietary fiber (SDF; 1.68% and insoluble dietary fiber (IDF; 45.12% were determined. The resulting material was subjected to the effect of two levels of temperature(environmental temperature, 20 ºC, and scalding temperature, 74 °C for meat products. Under these conditions, the FSPP was characterized in terms of water absorption capacity, oil retention capacity, water holding capacity

  15. Digestive and functional properties of a partially hydrolyzed cassava solid waste with high insoluble fiber concentration Propriedades funcionais-digestivas do concentrado de fibra alimentar obtido de mandioca

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Dorivaldo da Silva Raupp

    2004-06-01

    Full Text Available Starch factories generate large amounts of cassava solid waste. A small amount is utilized for animal feed but most of it is discharged with deleterious effects to the envirounment. A edible food with a high content of insoluble dietary fiber (60.9%, named "partially hidrolyzed cassava waste" (PHCW, was prepared from industrial cassava solid waste by an enzymatic process. PHCW or wheat bran (WB were fed to model rats and both promoted digestive function effects, but PHCW produced the greatest effect. The insoluble fiber constituent from PHCW (and not the soluble fiber, promoted the greatest fecal bulking, fecal weight and defecation frequency in rats, as compared to WB. Such results indicate that the partially hydrolyzed cassava waste presents digestive function properties which allow it to be used as an adequate source of insoluble dietary fiber in the formulation of functional food for human nutrition.As fecularias e polvilheiras produzem grandes quantidades de bagaço de mandioca. A proposta dessa pesquisa consistiu determinar, em ratos modelo, a propriedade funcional-digestiva do produto alimentício bagaço de mandioca hidrolisado (BMH, um concentrado de fibra alimentar (60,9%, peso seco que foi obtido a partir do bagaço de mandioca da polvilheira e através de processo de hidrólise enzimática. O BMH produziu efeitos fisiológicos no trato digestivo dos ratos modelos mais acentuados que os efeitos produzidos pelo farelo de trigo (FT. Foram os componentes insolúveis da fibra alimentar do BMH, e não a fração solúvel, os que mais contribuíram para o maior volume e peso das fezes e, por conseguinte, para o maior número de defecações. Por isso, o BMH pode ser usado como fonte alternativa de fibra alimentar para a formulação de alimentos, principalmente os consumidos por indivíduos com a finalidade de regular ou manter normal a funcionalidade digestiva.

  16. TENDÊNCIAS TECNOLÓGICAS PARA O PROCESSO DE PREPARAÇÃO DE COMPÓSITO À BASE DE SOLO-CIMENTO E FIBRA DE BANANEIRA PARA FABRICAÇÃO DE TIJOLOS E TECNOLOGIAS CORRELATAS ATRAVÉS DA PESQUISA EM DOCUMENTOS DE PATENTES

    OpenAIRE

    Carvalho dos Santos, Wagna Piler; IFBA; Suzart, Vivian Patricia; IFBA; Ferreira da Silva Júnior, Nelicio; IFBA

    2014-01-01

    A fibra extraída da bananeira (Musa Musácea) após a colheita dos cachos de bananas, que geralmente são descartadas, serve no preparo de um compósito à base de solo-cimento formado para a preparação de tijolo ecológico, com baixo custo e boa qualidade, podendo até mesmo ser utilizado por uma mão de obra não qualificada. O presente artigo tem como objetivo realizar um estudo de prospecção tecnológica relacionado à aplicação do compósito à base de solo-cimento de fibra de bananeira para a fab...

  17. Frequency of brain MRI abnormalities in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder at presentation: A cohort of Latin American patients.

    Science.gov (United States)

    Carnero Contentti, Edgar; Daccach Marques, Vanessa; Soto de Castillo, Ibis; Tkachuk, Veronica; Antunes Barreira, Amilton; Armas, Elizabeth; Chiganer, Edson; de Aquino Cruz, Camila; Di Pace, José Luis; Hryb, Javier Pablo; Lavigne Moreira, Carolina; Lessa, Carmen; Molina, Omaira; Perassolo, Monica; Soto, Arnoldo; Caride, Alejandro

    2018-01-01

    Brain magnetic resonance imaging (BMRI) lesions were classically not reported in neuromyelitis optica (NMO). However, BMRI lesions are not uncommon in NMO spectrum disorder (NMOSD) patients. To report BMRI characteristic abnormalities (location and configuration) in NMOSD patients at presentation. Medical records and BMRI characteristics of 79 patients with NMOSD (during the first documented attack) in Argentina, Brazil and Venezuela were reviewed retrospectively. BMRI abnormalities were observed in 81.02% of NMOSD patients at presentation. Forty-two patients (53.1%) showed typical-NMOSD abnormalities. We found BMRI abnormalities at presentation in the brainstem/cerebellum (n = 26; 32.9%), optic chiasm (n = 16; 20.2%), area postrema (n = 13; 16.4%), thalamus/hypothalamus (n = 11; 13.9%), corpus callosum (n = 11; 13.9%), periependymal-third ventricle (n = 9; 11.3%), corticospinal tract (n = 7; 8.8%), hemispheric white matter (n = 1; 1.2%) and nonspecific areas (n = 49; 62.03%). Asymptomatic BMRI lesions were more common. The frequency of brain MRI abnormalities did not differ between patients who were positive and negative for aquaporin 4 antibodies at presentation. Typical brain MRI abnormalities are frequent in NMOSD at disease onset. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  18. PROPIEDADES TÉCNICO-FUNCIONALES DE LA FIBRA DIETARIA DE CÁSCARAS DE MANGO VARIEDADHILACHA (Mangifera indica L.): EFECTO DEL SECADO POR CONVECCIÓN

    OpenAIRE

    GUSTAVO ADOLFO HINCAPIÉ LL.; DIANA CAROLINA VÁSQUEZ O; VALERIA SOFÍA GALICIA M; CARLOS AUGUSTO HINCAPIÉ LL.

    2014-01-01

    Un subproducto de la obtención del jugo de mango es su cáscara; la cual contiene niveles considerables de fibra dietaria que podrían ser utilizados en la elaboración de productos alimenticios, sin embargo, actualmente no es muy aprovechado. El proceso de secado prolonga la vida útil de la cascara y permite que pueda ser adicionada a otros alimentos. En este estudio, se caracterizó fisicoquímicamente la Cáscara de Mango Hilacha (CMH) y se evaluó el efecto de cinco temperaturas de secado sobre ...

  19. Síntese e caracterização da cerâmica PZT dopada com íons bário Synthesis and characterization of barium-doped PZT ceramics

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    G. Gasparotto

    2003-04-01

    Full Text Available Pós de titanato zirconato de chumbo (PZT puros e dopados com bário foram obtidos pelo método de precursores poliméricos, conformados uniaxialmente, na forma de cilindros, utilizando 15 MPa, e prensados isostaticamente à 210MPa. Com o objetivo de estudar o comportamento de sinterização os compactos foram divididos em dois lotes. Sendo um sinterizado em um forno acoplado a um dilatômetro até a temperatura de 1300 °C e o outro sinterizado em forno tipo mufla, em sistema fechado, na temperatura de 1100 °C por 4 horas. Verificou-se que a adição do íon bário influencia na cinética de sinterização, na densificação final, na microestrutura e nas propriedades elétricas da cerâmica. A adição de bário aumenta a concentração da fase tetragonal no PZT, em função da substituição do chumbo por bário na rede perovskita. As amostras dopadas com concentrações maiores que 5,0 mol % em bário apresentaram segregação de PbO no contorno de grão, inibindo seu crescimento.Pure and barium doped lead zirconate titanate powders were obtained by the polymeric precursor method, uniaxially conformed in cylinders form using 15 MPa and pressing isostatically at 210 MPa. In order to study the sintering behaviour, the compacts were divided in two parts. One part was sintered in a dilatometer furnace till 1300 °C and the other one sintered in muffle furnace in the temperature of 1100 °C for 4 hours. It was verified that the addition of barium influences on the sintering kinetics, on the final density, microstructure and electric properties of the ceramics. The addition of barium increases the concentration of the tetragonal phase of PZT due to the substitution of lead by barium in the perovskite lattice. The samples doped with barium concentrations higher than 5.0 mol % leads to the segregation of PbO in the grain boundary, inhibiting grain growth.

  20. Consumo de fibra dietética, sodio, potasio y calcio y su relación con la presión arterial en hombres adultos normotensos

    Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

    Ballesteros-Vásquez Martha Nydia

    1998-01-01

    Full Text Available Objetivo. Evaluar el efecto del consumo de fibra dietética, energía, sodio, potasio y calcio sobre la presión arterial de un grupo de adultos normotensos, tomando en cuenta indicadores tales como la edad, el sexo, la actividad física y la obesidad. Material y métodos. Se evaluaron 38 sujetos del sexo masculino de 30 a 45 años de edad, normotensos, aparentemente sanos y residentes de la ciudad de Hermosillo, Sonora, México. Se midió la presión arterial y se realizó una evaluación dietética, antropométrica y de actividad física. Resultados. La dieta resultó ser alta en fibra y en grasa. El sodio estaba 56% por arriba de la recomendación en 87% de los casos y fue la variable que más efecto mostró sobre la presión diastólica. De los sujetos estudiados, 36.9% tenían sobrepeso y obesidad, y se encontró una asociación significativa entre el índice de masa corporal y la presión diastólica y sistólica. Conclusiones. Existe una asociación significativa entre la hipertensión arterial y el alto consumo de sodio, el sobrepeso y la obesidad en sujetos normotensos.