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Objetivo: Establecer la prevalencia de eosinofilia en sangre en adultos con enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica (EPOC) según varios puntos de corte. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio transversal en pacientes con EPOC. La frecuencia de eosinofilia en sangre se determinó a partir de la concentración absoluta (células/µL) y relativa (%) de eosinófilos. Fueron realizados modelos multivariados para identificar factores asociados. Resultados: En 81 pacientes incluidos, la edad promedio fue de 71.9 ± 9.8 años; de los cuales, 46 (57 %) fueron hombres. La prevalencia de eosinofilia para los puntos de corte ≥ 100, ≥ 150, ≥ 200, ≥ 300 y ≥ 400 células/µL fue de 64.2, 43.2, 37.0, 16.1 y 9.9 %, respectivamente. De 81 pacientes, 34 (42 %) tuvieron una concentración ≥ 2 %; 21 (25.9 %) ≥ 3 %; 14 (17.3 %) ≥ 4 %; y 10 (12.3 %) ≥ 5 %. La eosinofilia ≥ 100 células/µL se asoció con la edad ≥ 80 años (RM = 6.04, p = 0.026) y con la exacerbación de la EPOC (RM = 9.40, p = 0.038); en cambio, la eosinofilia ≥ 2 %, lo hizo con solamente la edad ≥ 80 años (RM = 3.73, p = 0.020). Complementariamente, la concentración de eosinófilos ≥ 100 y < 300 células/µL se asoció con la exacerbación de la EPOC (RM = 11.00, p = 0.026). Conclusiones: Nuestros resultados sugieren que la frecuencia de eosinofilia en EPOC muestra variaciones sustanciales según la definición adoptada.

The sillenite-cobaltite nanocomposites with chemical formula (Bi13Co11)Co2O40–Co3O4 were synthetized and characterized for application as substrate in a microstrip patch antenna. To prepare the sample, the combustion method using urea as fuel was applied. The structural and vibrational characterizations were done through X-ray diffraction and infrared spectroscopy. The morphology of the sample was studied through FESEM images. The magnetization as a function of magnetic field recorded at 300 K confirmed the paramagnetic character of the sample. Electric characterization was performed from 1.0 GHz to 8.5 GHz aiming a wide frequency spectrum data, presenting steady real relative permittivity around 7, with low losses as results. A microstrip patch antenna was designed by cavity method with the nanocomposite as substrate for application in X-band communication services. Reflection coefficient measurements displayed a good agreement with simulations, achieving only 0.39% error in resonance frequency, validating the performed morphological and electrical characterizations, as antenna design. Simulated radiation pattern is also presented, with coherent results for a directive device.

This study proposes the application of low-field magnetic analysis (LFMA) as an alternative nondestructive evaluation method for the detection of microstructural changes of duplex stainless steel due to spinodal decomposition mechanism in a process known as “475°C embrittlement.” Structural, morphological, chemical, mechanical, and magnetic characterizations were performed. Two magnetic methods were used: magnetization versus field measurements at 300 K using a commercial magneto of meter and LFMA testing. The results showed a convergent behavior in agreement with the literature. Experimental results conclusively indicated that the new methodology is consistent and sensitive to the 475°C embrittlement process.

Many of the software development projects are not successfully finished. In many cases, this is because the software requirements were not correctly identified. One of the factors that affect the elicitation of requirements is the proper selection of requirements elicitation techniques. Even when there is a lot of literature that proposes several requirements elicitation techniques, there is no reference process model that indicates the techniques that must be applied by a requirement's engineer to elicit the requirements of a mobile application for e-commerce. This gap covers both the elicitation of functional and non-functional requirements. Therefore, the authors propose a new model called reference process model for requirements elicitation for e-commerce mobile applications development (RPM-REFEMAD), which allows the elicitation of requirements based on the use of four elicitation techniques combined in ten steps. The proposed model was applied in the requirements elicitation of two e-commerce mobile applications in different scenarios. To visualise the results of the model, a survey was designed and applied to users/stakeholders who participated in the reference process model evaluation. The survey results indicated that RPM-REFEMAD model helps to elicit more quality and quantity functional and non-functional requirements, in comparison with the use of traditional requirements elicitation techniques.

Purpose Fixation stability (FS) of the preferred retinal locus (PRL) may be improved by biofeedback fixation training (BFT) with microperimetry. Such training can be done on the patient’s PRL or in different retinal loci with better functional characteristics. We studied both options and compared the outcomes. Methods Sixty-seven consecutive patients with bilateral central vision loss, poor FS and visual acuity (VA) lower than 0.3 LogMAR were recruited for BFT with microperimeter. Patients were assigned into 2 groups. In group A, BFT was performed on the patient’s spontaneous PRL. In group B, PRL was located between 2 adjacent loci with the highest light sensitivity and the lowest distance from the fovea. Two sets of 12 weekly BFT sessions were performed. Primary outcomes were: FS, VA and reading speed. Results Outcomes were statistically significantly better in group B. Mean percentage of FS at therapy end improved from 32 to 35% for group A and from 40 to 55% in group B. Mean VA improved from 1 to 0.86 in group A and from 1 to 0.84 in group B. Reading speed (wpm) improved from 56 to 58 in group A and from 63 to 89 in group B. Conclusions This study describes a reliable methodology of improving eccentric fixation stability using BFT in microperimetry, when the fixation training locus is individualized as the retinal area with best functional characteristics. Further studies are needed to validate its value in a larger scale of patients, at different stages of the disease, and its persistence over time.

The article presents a new methodology that employs 3D printing technology to generate a microporous composite material of polylactic acid, sodium alginate and hydroxyapatite, whose microstructure is designed by means of the 3D numerical solution from a mathematical model. This model represents the spatio-temporal dynamics of the interaction between osteoblasts and osteoclasts in the bone remodeling. The microporosity of composite material mimics the structure of human trabecular bone. This material has density with microporosity pretty close to the one that is exhibited by the natural bone tissue. Close relationship between the material processing and its elasticity module is observed. When subjecting this composite material to a simulated body fluid treatment, the mechanical resistance to compression is increased due to induced mineralization of hydroxyapatite crystals on its surface. The methodology shows potential to generate structures that allow the control of the composite material properties. The material presents a microporosity that has morphological and chemical properties suitable for future applications in tissue engineering as bone scaffold.

Purpose: The principal aim of this pilot study was to investigate the concordance between the different stages of Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD), as determined by the simplified classification of the Age Related Eye Disease Study Group (AREDS), and new evaluation criteria using a microperimetry system. Methods: A complete eye examination and a microperimetry MAIATM (Macular Integrity Assessment, CenterVue, Padova, Italy) examination was performed on 59 eyes with early, intermediate or advanced AMD. We analysed 19 evaluation criteria for every clinical group category. Results: There were 20 female and 12 male participants included with a median age of 74 years (min: 54, max: 87). Thirteen eyes (22%) were classified as category 1, 11 eyes (18.6%) as category 2, 17 eyes (28.8%) as category 3 and 18 eyes (30.6%) as category 4 AMD. All evaluated microperimetry criteria related to retinal sensitivity were found to have a statistically significant difference among the stages ( p Conclusions: The mean sensitivity and the categorized sensitivity (set to 25, 15 and 5 dB), the five higher and lower stimuli sensitivity appeared to be the most sensitive criteria to differentiate the four AMD categories. Microperimetry provides a new reproducible method of anatomical-functional macular analysis.

Industry 4.0 has gained drive in the last few years since most companies at the industrial level need to update and optimize their production chain. Restructuring their processes and improving their human resources skills is imperative if they want to remain competitive. This research presents the development of a virtual reality system for induction motor troubleshooting training. Two sample groups were taken as references. The first one was trained with the VR system, while the second group worked with a conventional methodology. With the use of the proposed system, there was a time reduction of 57.73%. In terms of knowledge acquisition, it was possible to confirm, with a p-value lower than 0.05, that the VR system is more efficient than the conventional methodology. Finally, the system’s usability was evaluated utilizing the System Usability Scale (SUS), obtaining an average value of 73.33.

Objective: To report fixation stability changes in patients with different forms of infantile nystagmus syndrome (INS), who have undergone a visual rehabilitation through biofeedback fixation training (BFT) with microperimetry (MP). Design: Retrospective study. Methods: Patients 6 to 12 years-old with INS who performed BFT with MP. Initially 10 once-weekly followed by eight twice-weekly sessions of BFT during a minimum of 6 months period were performed. Visual acuity (VA) and MP fixation stability indices were analyzed, including displacement from fixation point (P1, P2) and percentage of retinal loci used during fixation attempt (BCEA 63% and 95%). Statistical analysis was conducted at baseline (BL), 10 weeks (W10) and 6 months (M6). Results: Twelve patients (mean age 8.9 years.) with INS completed the whole training session. All patients showed significant improvement in the mean BCEA fixation area (deg2): For BCEA@95% BL was 78.0, 46.1 at W10, and 27.4 at M6 ( p-value = 0.004). For BCEA@63% BL was 27.3, 15.4 in W10, and 9.17 at M6 ( p = 0.01). The ANOVA test for the FS indices of P1 and P2, as well as for BCVA showed no significant difference when compared at the same intervals. Conclusion: Fixation stability (FS) indices of BCEAs (63% and 95%) improved at W10 and M6, while P1 and P2 showed significant improvement at W10 but not at M6, probably because BCEA involves a much larger area than P1 and P2. VA did not show significant improvement at any time point.

Purpose To assess whether treatment with the Limoli Retinal Restoration Technique (LRRT) can be performed in patients with retinitis pigmentosa (RP), grafting the autologous cells in a deep scleral pocket above the choroid of each eye to exert their beneficial effect on the residual retinal cells. Methods The patients were subjected to a complete ophthalmological examination, including best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), close-up visus measurements, spectral domain-optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT), microperimetry (MY), and electroretinography (ERG). Furthermore, the complete ophthalmological examination was carried out at baseline (T0) and at 6 months (T180) after surgery. The Shapiro-Wilk test was used to assess the normality of distribution of the investigated parameters. A mixed linear regression model was used to analyse the difference in all the studied parameters at T0 and T180, and to compare the mean change between the two groups. All statistical analyses were performed with STATA 14.0 (Collage Station, Texas, USA). Results LRRT treatment was performed in 34 eyes of 25 RP patients recruited for the study. The eyes were classified in two groups on the basis of foveal thickness (FT) assessed by SD-OCT: 14 eyes in Group A (FT≤190μm) and the remaining 20 ones in Group B (FT > 190μm). Although it had not reached the statistical significance, Group B showed a better improvement in BCVA, residual close-up visus and sensitivity than Group A. Conclusions Previous studies have described the role of LRRT in slowing down retinal degenerative diseases. Consequently, this surgical procedure could improve the clinical and rehabilitative prognostic parameters in RP patients. On the other hand, further clinical research and studies with longer follow-up will be needed to evaluate its efficacy.

In this paper a grid connected photovoltaic system is presented. The presented system has two stages, the first is the MPPT strategy based on variable-step with predictive current control. In the second stage an active/reactive power control is uses to control a multilevel inverter for grid connection. All the system is developed in Matlab and simulated on Simulink for validation.

Purpose: To assess the intrasession test-retest reliability of scotopic cyan and scotopic red fundus-controlled perimetry (FCP) in normal subjects using a modified MAIA “microperimeter” (macular integrity assessment) device. Methods: Forty-seven normal eyes of 30 subjects (aged 33.8 years) underwent duplicate mesopic (achromatic stimuli, 400-800 nm), scotopic cyan (505 nm), and scotopic red (627 nm) FCP, using a grid of 49 stimuli over 14° of the central retina. Test-retest reliability for pointwise sensitivity (PWS), stability of fixation, reaction time and test duration were analyzed using mixed-effects models. Results: PWS test-retest reliability was good among all 3 types of retinal sensitivity assessments (coefficient of repeatability of 4.75 dB for mesopic, 5.26 dB for scotopic cyan, and 4.06 dB for scotopic red testing). While the mean sensitivity decreased with eccentricity for both mesopic and scotopic red testing, it was highest at 7° eccentricity for the scotopic cyan assessment (p < 0.001). Conclusions: The modified MAIA device allows for reliable scotopic FCP in normal subjects. Our findings suggest that testing of scotopic cyan sensitivity largely reflects rod function.

To evaluate whether autologous mesenchymal cells, adipose derived stem cells and platelet-rich plasma, grafted into the supracoroideal space by surgical treatment according to Limoli retinal restoration technique (LRRT), can produce growth factors in order to exert a beneficial effect in retinitis pigmentosa (RP) patients. Twenty-one eyes underwent surgery and divided based on retinal foveal thickness ≤ 190 or >190 µm into group A and group B, respectively. The specific LRRT triad was grafted in a deep scleral pocket above the choroid of each eye. At 6-month follow-up, group B showed an improvement in residual close-up visus and sensitivity at microperimetry compared to group A. After an in-depth review of molecular biology studies concerning degenerative phenomena underlying the etiopathogenesis of RP, it can be confirmed that further research is needed on tapeto-retinal degenerations both from a clinical and molecular point of view to obtain better functional results. In particular, it is necessary to increase the number of patients, extend observation times, and treat subjects in the presence of still trophic retinal tissue to allow adequate biochemical and functional catering.

In the report "Poverty and Shared Prosperity 2018: Piecing Together the Poverty Puzzle", the World Bank points out that "as the world gets richer and progress is made in the battle against extreme poverty, we must not forget that many around the world still live in deprivation, unable to meet their basic needs, even if their income is higher than the International Poverty Line". This statement establishes two challenges: 1) understanding the complexity of poverty as a multidimensional phenomenon, and, 2) choosing an adequate measure mechanism, which increases data accuracy of poverty, obtaining the closest representation of living conditions of poor people. Nowadays, the compilation of poverty data is a high-cost task for governments due the need of a great amount of financial and human resources. This limitation makes it almost impossible to rely on immediate updated information. This article compiles the evolution of poverty measurement methods and alternatives to gather poverty data that can reduce the costs and time required to update such information.

PurposeTo report the association and prevalence of reticular pseudodrusen (RPD) in eyes with newly presenting adult onset foveomacular vitelliform dystrophy (AFVD). To compare the strength of association with other pathologies resulting from dysfunction of the choroid-Bruch's membrane-retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) complex, including eyes with geographic atrophy (GA) and angioid streaks.MethodsRetrospective single-centre review of all consecutive newly presenting AFVD. Multimodal imaging with spectral domain optical coherence tomography, fundus photographs, red-free/blue light images, and fundus fluorescein angiograms were graded for the presence of RPD. For comparison, all consecutive newly presenting cases of GA and eyes with angioid streaks were studied.ResultsFifteen (15) patients were identified with AFVD (mean age of 77.3 years; 73.3% female). Mean age of patients with AFVD and RPD was 80.5 years (SD 3.7), whereas that of patients with AFVD without RPD was 75.1 years (SD 7.0). This age difference did not reach statistical significance, P=0.1. Six (40%) had identifiable RPD; being a bilateral finding in 100% of patients. No males with AFVD and RPD were identified. A total of 92 eyes presented with GA. Twenty-three (23) of these (25.0%) had RPD. Twelve (12) patients presented with identifiable angioid streaks, with 4 (36.4%) having RPD.ConclusionRPD are a frequent finding in eyes with newly presenting AFVD; not being restricted to AMD, but a finding common among diseases where pathophysiological mechanisms involve damage to Bruch's membrane and the RPE, whether genetic or degenerative. Our study supports the concept that they occur with high but variable frequencies in eyes with various pathologies.

The present paper presents a Software Architecture proposal designed to provide to a “gesture recognition system” the capacity to expose its functionalities and capabilities to be consumed by any other software application with diverse purposes. In this context, the proposed architecture will provide integration and interoperability capabilities to the human-arm gesture recognition system, giving it the ability to interact with other applications. The whole solution includes different elements such as the MyoArmband device (wearable), a human-arm gesture recognition system, a communications interface, and any other practical applications which consume the functionalities of the recognition system. To demonstrate the feasibility and usefulness of the proposed architecture, two software applications have been designed and implemented, based on this architecture, which are a mouse emulator and a Tetris game.

Objective: To evaluate the impact of two therapeutic interventions in patients with non-specific low back pain. Materials and methods: Prospective study, in which in 20 subjects from both genders assigned through consecutive sampling of the two interventions: Group 1:10 sessions of conventional physiotherapy treatment (CPT) (Ultrasound, TENS: Transcutaneous Electrical Nervous Stimulation y HWC: Hot Wet Compresses) and Group 2:10 sessions of Motor Control Exercises (MCE). A numerical Pain Scale (NPS) was applied before and after each intervention. Results: In the first group, it was found a 20% decrease the pain scores after 10 sessions compared with the baseline measurements (before the intervention) (p=0.03). Similarly, in the second group, pain score dimished 42% respect to baseline values at the end of the 10 therapeutic sessions (p = 0.03). When comparing the two interventions, the MCE were more effective than the CPT, even from the first treatment session (p

Background:Compass (CenterVue, Padova, Italy) is a fundus automated perimeter which has been introduced in the clinical practice for glaucoma management in 2014. The aim of the article is to review Compass literature, comparing its performances against Humphrey Field Analyzer (Zeiss Humphrey Systems, Dublin, CA, USA).Results:Analyses on both normal and glaucoma subjects agree on the fact that Humphrey Field Analyzer and Compass are interchangeable, as the difference of their global indices is largely inferior than test -retest variability for Humphrey Field Analyzer. Compass also enables interesting opportunities for the assessment of morphology, and the integration between morphology and function on the same device.Conclusion:Visual field testing by standard automated perimetry is limited by a series of intrinsic factors related to the psychophysical nature of the examination; recent papers suggest that gaze tracking is closely related to visual field reliability. Compass, thanks to a retinal tracker and to the active dislocation of stimuli to compensate for eye movements, is able to provide visual fields unaffected by fixation instability. Also, the instrument is a true colour, confocal retinoscope and obtains high-quality 60° × 60° photos of the central retina and stereo-photos details of the optic nerve. Overlapping the image of the retina to field sensitivity may be useful in ascertaining the impact of comorbidities. In addition, the recent introduction of stereoscopic photography may be very useful for better clinical examination.

AIMS: To determine prevalence, associations, and risk factors for reticular pseudodrusen (RPD) in a UK population. METHODS: Cross-sectional study of Bridlington residents aged ≥65 years. Masked grading of colour fundus photographs from 3549 participants. RPD presence, phenotype, and topography were recorded, demographic details were analysed, and prevalence was calculated. RESULTS: RPD was detected in 281 eyes (176 individuals) of 3476 participants (5.06%) with gradable images, and bilateral in 76.6%. Digital enhancement increased detection by 15.7%. Prevalence increased significantly with age from 1.18% (65–69 years) to 27.27% (≥90 years) (mean age 81.1, SD 6.01; OR 1.18, 95% CI 1.15–1.21, p value

The main objective of this research study is to determine how socio-economic factors affect the educational attainments of high-school students. For our study, we considered the socio-economic and academic data corresponding to more than ten years of records obtained from the leading university of an Andean country. Then, we used classification algorithms and machine learning techniques to determine which factors are the more influential on academic performance. We found that academic scholarship, age, county and high school degree influences academic performance of students. The results of this study constitute important information for academic directors and social workers involved in the task of improving the conditions of students and providing all of them the means to success.

PURPOSE: To explore the use of microperimetry in the evaluation of macular dysfunction in patients with cataract, to aid in proper intraocular lens selection (multifocal vs monofocal), and to set expectations for postoperative visual function. METHODS: One randomly chosen eye of 10 patients diagnosed as having mild (1+) to moderate (3+) cataract was evaluated before and 1 week after cataract surgery with the MAIA microperimeter (Centervue S.p.A, Padova, Italy). Corrected distance visual acuity, dilated and undilated biomicroscopy and indirect fundus examinations, intraocular pressure measurement, and a MAIA microperimeter test to measure macular sensitivity and fixation pattern were also performed. RESULTS: Two patients showed macular abnormalities before and after surgery that were noted on MAIA testing: one patient showed reduced average threshold sensitivity and abnormal percent reduced threshold, whereas the other patient showed fixation drift demonstrating eccentric fixation. Both eyes had reduced postoperative visual performance after uneventful cataract surgeries. CONCLUSIONS: Because not every macular lesion noted on fundus examination or optical coherence tomography may be clinically significant, microperimetry can be useful to detect clinically significant retinal dysfunction prior to cataract surgery. The outcome may aid in the selection of intraocular lens type and may yield a better documented surgical prognosis. Further studies are necessary to confirm these findings. [ J Refract Surg. 2015;31(10):690–696.]

This article proposes a more nuanced method to assess the accuracy of preelection polls in competitive multiparty elections. Relying on data from the 2006 and 2012 presidential campaigns in Mexico, we illustrate some shortcomings of commonly used statistics to assess survey bias when applied to multiparty elections. We propose the use of a Kalman filter-based method that uses all available information throughout an electoral campaign to determine the systematic error in the estimates produced for each candidate by all polling firms. We show that clearly distinguishing between sampling and systematic biases is a requirement for a robust evaluation of polling firm performance, and that house effects need not be unidirectional within a firm’s estimates or across firms.

Objective The retinal area or location used during any fixation attempt defines the preferred retinal locus (PRL). It is presumed that during prolonged fixation attempts there may be various representative reference points within the PRL area. This study aims to clarify this presumption. Design Prospective, nonrandomized, observational case series. Participants Sixty-five eyes of 41 patients from the University of Nottingham, Queen's Medical Centre Retina and Low Vision Clinics. Methods A total of 65 eyes of 41 patients from the University of Nottingham, Queen's Medical Centre Retina and Low Vision Clinics were assessed for PRL using the Macular Integrity Assessment (MAIA) microperimetry equipment (CenterVue, Padova, Italy). The MAIA allows automatic calculation for 2 points named PRL_initial (PRL i ), which is calculated after the first 10 seconds of fixation, and PRL_final (PRL f ), which is calculated after the completion of all fixation attempts during the microperimetry test. Results Estimates of PRL i and PRL f were produced for all patients. Forty-six (71%) eyes were classified as having stable fixation; 40 of the 46 eyes (87%) had both PRLs location over the fovea centralis. Nineteen of 65 eyes (29%) were classified as having unstable or relatively unstable fixation; different PRL i and PRL f locations were found in 18 (95%) of the 19 eyes, including 13 (68%) with central geographic atrophy secondary to dry age-related macular degeneration. The mean rate of change was 5.3 units in fixation per unit change in distance in both PRL i and PRL f . Conclusions The representative points during prolonged fixation attempts may vary at different stages of fixation. This is reflected in the characteristics of fixation stability of the patients and presents a possible association with main pathology responsible for low vision.

Resumen El sindrome fibromialgico es un sindrome clinico caracterizado por dolor cronico generalizado y reduccion de los umbrales del dolor a la palpacion. La fisiopatologia sigue siendo desconocida, pero cada vez hay mas evidencia de que la sensibilizacion periferica y central provocan una amplificacion de los impulsos sensoriales que puede alterar la percepcion del dolor en los pacientes. En su tratamiento resulta fundamental el abordaje multidisciplinario en contraposicion a un abordaje biomedico tradicional, dada la enorme complejidad que suelen presentar estos pacientes. El tratamiento debe ser dirigido por el medico, quien hace el diagnostico y coordina el equipo interdisciplinario, en el que el fisioterapeuta hace la evaluacion inicial y realiza el tratamiento de rehabilitacion integral y el psicologo lleva a cabo la evaluacion inicial y el tratamiento cognitivo conductual. En esta revision, encontraremos las tres areas mas importantes del tratamiento del sindrome fibromialgico, profundizando en el tratamiento farmacologico y fisioterapeutico, segun analisis bibliografico de la evidencia cientifica mas actual.

Purpose To use multimodal imaging to evaluate the prevalence of reticular pseudodrusen (RPD) in eyes with newly presenting neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) in a UK population and explore associations with RPD and angiographic subtypes of nAMD. Methods A retrospective review of all spectral-domain optical coherence tomography, color fundus photographs, red-free and blue channel images, and fundus fluorescein angiograms of 202 consecutive patients who presented to a rapid access macular clinic over a 4-year period was performed. All images were graded by at least 2 ophthalmologists for the presence of RPD and choroidal neovascular membrane (CNV) subtypes. Results A total of 231 consecutive eyes were studied, of which 131 (56.7%) were in women. Of these, 51 eyes with CNV (22.1%) had identifiable RPD, with one or more imaging methods in that eye. A total of 30.3% of patients with newly presenting CNV in either or both eyes had identifiable RPD. The RPD were bilateral in 85.4% of patients and were identified more commonly in women than men (72.5% vs 27.5%), a difference that reached statistical significance (p = 0.011). No association between RPD and any particular CNV subtype was demonstrated, including for retinal angiomatous proliferations (RAP). Conclusions Reticular pseudodrusen have a high prevalence in eyes presenting with nAMD (22.1%), although at rates much lower than that of conventional drusen. They are largely a bilateral finding, occurring more frequently in women. Unlike other previous reports, we found no difference in their occurrence between the different subtypes of CNV including RAPs.

Purpose:To compare retinal sensitivity obtained with MP1 and MAIA microperimeters in patients affected by retinal dystrophies (RD) and in healthy subjects.Methods:Thirty-six patients affected by RD and 25 healthy subjects were considered for the study. All patients and controls underwent a complete ophthalmic examination including fundus-related perimetry, performed by means of two microperimeters, the MP1 (Nidek Technologies) and the MAIA (CenterVue). Main outcome of the study was the comparison of retinal sensitivity. Such comparison was performed converting the MP1 decibel (dB) values to their MAIA equivalent dB values.Results:Mean retinal sensitivity in patients affected by RD was 5.68 6.08 dB (mean +/- SD) on MP1 (9.66 +/- 10.06 dB converted to their equivalent MAIA values) and 14.66 +/- 9.37 dB on MAIA (P < 0.0001). Mean retinal sensitivity in healthy subjects was 18.46 +/- 3.10 dB on MP1 (22.44 +/- 7.08 dB on their converted equivalent MAIA values) and 28.52 +/- 1.12 dB on MAIA (P < 0.0001). Thirty eyes affected by RD (41%) showed retinal areas characterized by sensitivity under 1 dB on MP1, whereas the MAIA examination of the same areas revealed a mean retinal sensitivity of 4.7 dB. Moreover, 28 of these eyes disclosed also areas of absolute scotoma on MP1, but examining the same areas on MAIA, just 13 of these eyes (46%) disclosed an absolute scotoma. In addition, in a subgroup of 6 eyes affected by RD (8%) showing a retinal sensitivity of 20 dB on MP1, the corresponding value on MAIA varied from 26.3 dB to 30.0 dB, with a mean value of 27.8 +/- 1.3 dB.Conclusion:The MAIA microperimeter provides a more accurate characterization of functional impairment in RD with respect to the MP1 system, especially in cases with low and high retinal sensitivity. MAIA microperimeter could reveal particularly useful in precisely identifying and monitoring subtle changes in retinal sensitivity, especially in view of the availability of therapies aiming at a functional rescue in patients with RD.

To describe a follow-up case of vitamin A deficiency (VAD)-related retinopathy with macular involvement monitored with electroretinography and microperimetry. Flash (ERG), pattern (PERG), and multifocal (mfERG) electroretinography were recorded in parallel with microperimetry before and during 7-month follow-up of vitamin A treatment on a 65-year-old man presented with a 1-year history of night blindness. The patient had undergone ileostomy procedure for Crohn’s disease 14 years ago. His best corrected visual acuity was 6/6 in each eye. Fundus examination revealed macular and mid-peripheral yellow-white lesions compatible with drusen. Before treatment, PERG was reduced, and mfERG was reduced and delayed, worse in responses from the central rings. These results revealed evidence of bilateral macular and central cone dysfunction. The flash ERG showed reduced dark-adapted 0.01 ERG (rod response); a-wave of dark-adapted 3.0 and 10.0 ERG was normal but b-wave was reduced (negative configuration); light-adapted 3.0 ERG was slightly reduced. The flash ERG revealed evidence of bilateral generalised retinal dysfunction affecting the rod more than cone system. Microperimetry showed deep reduction in retinal sensitivity. Fixation stability was unstable with eccentric locus. During treatment, ERG and microperimetry demonstrated significant improvements. Fixation stability reached normal values after the third treatment week. This case illustrates the importance of electrophysiological investigation in early VAD-related retinopathy detection correlated with microperimetry. Our findings indicate a more delayed central cone function recovery than that of generalised rod and cone function. There was a marked correlation between ERG and microperimetric changes.

Evolving atrophic macular degeneration represents at least 80% of all macular degenerations and is currently without a standardized care. Autologous fat transplantation efficacy was demonstrated by several studies, as these cells are able to produce growth factors. The aim of the work was to demonstrate possible therapeutic effect of the joined suprachoroidal graft of adipocytes, adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) in stromal vascular fractions (SVFs) of adipose tissue, and platelet-rich plasma (PRP). Twelve eyes in 12 dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD) patients, aged 71.25 (SD ± 6.8) between 62 and 80 years, were analyzed. A complete ocular evaluation was performed using best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), retinographic analysis, spectral-domain optical coherence tomography, microperimetry, computerized visual field, and standard electroretinogram (ERG). Each eye received a cell in graft between choroid and sclera of mature fat cells and ADSCs in SVF enriched with PRP by means of the variant second Limoli (Limoli retinal restoration technique [LRRT]). In order to test if the differences pre- and post-treatment were significant, the Wilcoxon signed-rank test has been performed. Adverse effects were not reported in the patients. After surgery with LRRT, the most significant increase in the ERG values was recorded by scotopic rod-ERG (answer coming from the rods), from 41.26 to 60.83 μV with an average increase of 47.44% highly significant (P

El dolor es considerado un importante problema de salud pública, ya que representa el 70% de la asistencia a emergencia y una tercera parte de las consultas médicas. Los trastornos musculoesqueléticos corresponden a aproximadamente el 80% de las consultas de servicios de fisioterapia ambulatoria siendo el dolor el síntoma más frecuente.El dolor crónico se clasifica como el dolor que persiste más allá del tiempo de curación del tejido normal, que dura más de tres meses y sin valor biológico aparente. El dolor crónico afecta a aproximadamente 60 millones de personas, que corresponden al 10% de la población mundial. Una encuesta que en 2006 estudió a 4.839 personas encontró que el 20% sufría de dolor crónico y muchos reportaron una reducción en la calidad de vida.

Physiological studies of the human finger indicate that friction in the tendon-pulley system accounts for a considerable fraction of the total output force (9–12%) in a high-load static posteccentric configuration. Such a phenomenon can be exploited for robotic and prosthetic applications, as it can result in (1) an increase of output force or (2) a reduction of energy consumption and actuator weight. In this study, a simple frictional, two-link, one-degree-of-freedom model of a human finger was created. The model is validated against in vitro human finger data, and its behavior is examined with respect to select physiological parameters. The results point to clear benefits of incorporating friction in tendon-driven robotic fingers for actuator mass and output force. If it is indeed the case that the majority of high-load hand grasps are posteccentric, there is a clear benefit of incorporating friction in tendon-driven prosthetic hand replacements.

This paper deals with the voltage and frequency control of the generated electricity from a permanent magnet wind-turbine. The wind turbine is directly connected to a permanent magnet synchronous generator in order to avoid the losses associated to the gearbox so that only an AC/DC/AC power converter is used to control the variable voltage and frequency. The AC/DC converter is a three phases diode bridge rectifier, the DC/DC converter consists of a Boost converter which keeps the voltage level nearly constant over the whole wind speeds to supply satisfactory a single-phase DC/AC inverter which has four insulated gate bipolar transistors since a single-phase output with constant voltage and frequency is desired.The simulation of the whole system including the permanent magnet synchronous generator and it is verified that the design of the AC/DC/AC power converter and its control strategy work very well and can be readily used in RL loads in rural areas.

Low vision patients with eccentric viewing (EV) use extrafoveal retinal areas to compensate for the loss of central vision. Such retinal loci are known as the preferred retinal locus (PRL). It is known that EV is accompanied by unstable fixation. Microperimetry systems with biofeedback training have been used as a rehabilitation aid to improve fixation stability in EV patients. Normally, only the best or dominant eye is selected for such rehabilitation. This case report describes the rehabilitation on both eyes by means of PRL relocation with MAIA microperimetry (Centervue, Padova, Italy) with biofeedback training technology of a 74-year-old woman diagnosed with adult pseudovitelliform dystrophy. The patient presented binocularly similar anatomical and functional characteristics with the PRL located over the dystrophic area. At the end of the 3 months rehabilitation period, the PRL was successfully relocated inferiorly from the fovea showing relevant visual acuity improvement.

Patients can present with a variety of conditions that limit, or prevent, the ideal placement of endosteal implants. One of these situations is depicted by an insufficient amount of bone for implant placement in the maxillary anterior alveolar ridge. Autogenous bone grafting can be used to augment the ridge to provide a sufficient amount of bone for implant placement. Using the mandibular symphysis as a donor site offers ease of access, good bone quality for localized repair, a corticocancellous block graft morphology, low morbidity, and minimal graft resorption. A procedure for harvesting and placing an autogenous mandibular bone graft is presented; as are the advantages of using this location as a donor site compared with other locations.

Small and medium-sized benign mandibular tumors such as ameloblastoma, odontogenic myxoma, and odontogenic keratocysts are generally resected intraorally when possible. This leaves extraoral soft tissues at the future recipient site untouched and simplifies dissection during delayed mandibular reconstruction. Superior results can be anticipated because of better blood supply and less scar tissue. In such cases, temporary reconstruction of the mandibular continuity defect resulting from the ablative tumor surgery with a reconstruction plate can preserve both normal facial contour and oral functions. The plate bridges the gap temporarily to maintain the mandibular segments in correct position and favors repair of the soft tissue. This article presents a modified application technique for the three-dimensional, bendable reconstruction plate (3-DBRP) after intraoral resection of benign mandibular tumors.

The use of many currently available implant systems may be limited in patients with severe mandibular atrophy because of the lack of available bone in the symphyseal region. The transmandibular implant is a rigid box-frame structure that can distribute masticatory forces along a severely atrophied mandible with as little as 4 mm of vertical bone with an implant-borne prosthesis. Although the success rate of the transmandibular implant is favorable as compared with other systems, complications can occur after placement, including infection, partial extrusion, and fracture of a post. A case report of fractures of two posts at the necks and the bar approximately 18 months after placement is presented.

Healing of cellular bone grafts irradiated at various times in the postsurgical course was compared to the healing characteristics of bone grafts placed into already irradiated tissue and to controls of irradiated host mandible in a rabbit model. Physical graft consolidation was assessed by load stress characteristics and serial histologic examination. Results indicated that grafts placed into already irradiated tissues failed to form bone in both phases of expected regeneration resulting in structurally weakened and histologically deficient ossicles. Bone grafts irradiated after placement were tolerant of irradiation. Bone grafts irradiated after four weeks were found to be less affected by irradiation than those irradiated within the first four weeks, forming an ossicle structurally and histologically superior to that of bone ossicles developed from grafts placed into irradiated tissues.