Search

ATP-dependent potassium (K ATP ) channels are the target of multiple vasoactive factors and drugs. Changes in the functional role of ATP-dependent (K ATP ) potassium channels in hypertension are controversial. The aim of the present study was to analyze the possible changes of ATP-sensitive potassium channels (K ATP ) expression and function during hypertension. For this purpose, we used endothelium-denuded aorta segments from Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) and spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) to analyze the 1) expression of K ATP subunits Kir6.1, Kir6.2 and SUR2B by immunohistochemistry and Western blot, 2) the K ATP currents recorded in the whole cell configuration of the patch-clamp technique and 3) the vasodilator response to the K ATP channel openers, pinacidil and cromakalim. Kir6.1 and SUR2B were expressed in the medial layer of the aorta from WKY rats and SHR rats, while Kir6.2 was not detected in aorta from either strain. Kir6.1 and SUR2B expression were decreased in hypertension. However, the vasodilator responses of pinacidil and cromakalim were similar in WKY rats and SHR rats. Moreover, pinacidil induced increase in K + currents was also similar in WKY rats and SHR rats and also similarly inhibited by glybenclamide. Our data demonstrate for the first time direct evidence of decreased aortic Kir6.1/SUR2B subunit expression in hypertension, but preserved functional responses to K ATP channel openers.

This paper reviews the current instruments in Colombian legislation for water management, including planning, economic and administrative instruments. In particular, it reviews the Watershed Management and Ordering Plans, administrative permits for water use and pollution, as well as water use and water pollution charges. It analyzes how they could interact and be implemented in order to undertake comprehensive and integrated water management by the regional environmental authorities. The paper then reviews how these instruments are currently being implemented by the regional environmental authorities, concluding that IWRM goals are not being achieved.

En los últimos treinta años se constata una creciente ubicuidad de computadoras en todas las esferas de la vida humana. Esta expansión obedece a las posibilidades programables de esos dispositivos y a su capacidad para suplir el funcionamiento de objetos técnicos previos. Desde el desarrollo de la noción de máquina universal, la noción de programa instaura una división entre hardware y software que se ha constituido como un neo-cartesianismo. En este trabajo reseñamos los conceptos de computación y programa, para luego discutir la ontología relacional de los objetos digitales y la necesidad de su medio asociado recuperando la lectura de la tecnicidad de Gilbert Simondon. En ese recorrido prestamos particular atención a la aparente paradoja de la materialidad de lo digital y al problema de la identidad y la copia de lo codificado. A partir de allí discutimos la noción de intérprete para repensar la imbricación e indistinción entre hardware y software a determinados niveles de abstracción para cuestionar las miradas dualistas.Nota: El trabajo fue enviado en 2017 y aceptado en febrero de 2018. La publicación consigna el año de publicación como 2016. Over the last thirty years, there has been a growing ubiquity of computers in all spheres of human life. Such expansion is due to the programmability of such devices and their ability to replace the workings of previous technical objects. Since the developing of the notion of universal machine, the idea of program establishes a division between hardware and software that has become a form of neo Cartesianism. In this paper we present a brief account of the concepts of computing and program, in order discuss the relational ontology of digital objects and their need of an associated milieu, reconsidering Gilbert Simondon’s account of technicity. Following this conceptual path we focus on the apparent paradox of digital materiality and the associated problems of identity and copy of codified entities. From that standpoint will discuss the concept of interpreter to rethink the imbrications and indistinctness between hardware and software at certain levels of abstraction to put into question dualist perspectives. Fil: Javier Blanco. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Centro Científico Tecnológico Conicet - Córdoba. Instituto de Humanidades. Universidad Nacional de Córdoba. Instituto de Humanidades; Argentina Fil: Berti, Agustin. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Centro Científico Tecnológico Conicet - Córdoba. Instituto de Humanidades. Universidad Nacional de Córdoba. Instituto de Humanidades; Argentina

Key Clinical Message Vaginal reconstruction represents a very difficult challenge. Free jejunal flaps can be easily molded and adapted to solve complex cases restoring the width, length, and consistency of the “new” vagina without compromising the external genitalia and improving the lubrication while preserving sensation to clitoris.

We evaluated the possible alterations produced by liver cholestasis (LC), a model of decompensated liver cirrhosis in sympathetic, sensory and nitrergic nerve function in rat superior mesenteric arteries (SMA). The vasoconstrictor response to electrical field stimulation (EFS) was greater in LC animals. Alpha-adrenoceptor antagonist phentolamine and P2 purinoceptor antagonist suramin decreased this response in LC animals more than in control animals. Both non-specific nitric oxide synthase (NOS) L-NAME and calcitonin gene related peptide (CGRP) (8-37) increased the vasoconstrictor response to EFS more strongly in LC than in control segments. Vasomotor responses to noradrenaline (NA) or CGRP were greater in LC segments, while NO analogue DEA-NO induced a similar vasodilation in both experimental groups. The release of NA was not modified, while those of ATP, nitrite and CGRP were increased in segments from LC. Alpha 1 adrenoceptor, Rho kinase (ROCK) 1 and 2 and total myosin phosphatase (MYPT) expressions were not modified, while alpha 2B adrenoceptor, nNOS expression and nNOS and MYPT phosphorylation were increased by LC. Together, these alterations might counteract the increased splanchnic vasodilation observed in the last phases of decompensated liver cirrhosis.

This study compares the maximum rectifier radio frequency (RF)–dc conversion efficiency for various input signals with random modulation. The instantaneous power variance (IPV) is proposed as an easy to compute parameter to classify the effect of modulation on the obtained rectifier efficiency. A prototype ultra high frequency (UHF) rectifier is used to simulate as well as measure the performance of randomly modulated signals with binary phase-shift keying (BPSK), quadrature phase-shift keying (QPSK), 8 phase-shift keying (PSK) and 64 quadrature amplitude modulation (QAM) modulations. In addition to considering different modulation formats, the roll-off factor of the baseband filter is also varied due to the fact that it has a strong impact on the time-varying nature of the signal envelope. For the given rectifier, it is shown that the peak RF–dc conversion efficiency versus the output load is shifted to larger load values for signals with higher IPV. Furthermore, by comparing signals with different time-varying envelope characteristics, it is shown that IPV represents a more accurate signal characteristic than peak-to-average power ratio in terms of properly characterising the effect of modulation on the rectifier efficiency.

This study examines the effect of endogenous male sex hormones on thromboxane A2 (TXA2), prostaglandin (PG) I2, PGF(2 alpha), and PGE I2 release, as well as their role in acetylcholine (ACh)-mediated relaxation in the aorta.Aortic segments from orchidectomized and control male Sprague-Dawley rats were used to measure COX-2 protein expression. ACh-induced relaxation of these segments was also determined in the absence and presence of the COX-2 inhibitor NS-398, the TXA2 synthesis inhibitor furegrelate, the PGI2 synthesis inhibitor tranylcypromine (TCP), or the thromboxane-prostanoid (TP) receptor antagonist SQ-29 548. Furthermore, TXA2, PGI2, PGF(2 alpha), and PGE2 release as well as the vasomotor effect of exogenous TXA2, PGI2, PGF(2 alpha), and PGE2 were measured. COX-2 expression was increased in aortas from orchidectomized rats. NS-398 did not modify the ACh-induced relaxation in arteries from both control or orchidectomized rats. Furegrelate did not modify the ACh-induced relaxation in aortas from control animals but, in aortas from orchidectomized rats, it increased that response. TCP decreased the ACh-induced relaxation in both groups. The TP receptor antagonist, SQ29 548 failed to modify ACh-induced relaxation in aortas from either rat group. Pre-incubating arteries from orchidectomized rats with TCP plus furegrelate did not modify the decrease in the ACh response induced by TCP alone, but this response was restored by co-incubation of TCP plus SQ29 548. ACh-induced TXA2, PGI2, PGF(2 alpha), and PGE2 release were increased by orchidectomy. The presence of furegrelate plus TCP increased the ACh-induced PGE2 release more in arteries from orchidectomized than in those from control rats. The contractile responses induced by the TXA2 mimetic U-46619 or by exogenous PGF(2 alpha) were similar in arteries from control and orchidectomized rats, while those induced by exogenous PGE2 were increased in arteries from orchidectomized rats; the vasodilator response induced by exogenous PGI2 was decreased in arteries from orchidectomized rats.These data show that endogenous male sex hormone deprivation increases COX-2 expression, the release of TXA2, PGI2, PGF(2 alpha), and PGE2 and the contractile response induced by exogenous PGE2 and TXA2, while it decreases the relaxation induced by exogenous PGI2. Despite the predominance of vasoconstrictor prostanoids derived from COX-2 in aortas from orchidectomized rats, the ACh-induced relaxation remains increased.

Clasicamente, la artrosis (OA) no ha sido considerada una artropatia inflamatoria por la escasez de neutrofilos en el liquido sinovial y la ausencia de manifestaciones sistemicas de inflamacion. Ademas, las caracteristicas del cartilago articular (avascular, alinfatico y aneural) impiden cumplir los signos clasicos de la inflamacion (enrojecimiento, hinchazon, calor y dolor). Sin embargo, gracias a los avances en biologia molecular y celular, son multiples los estudios que demuestran que diversos mediadores proinflamatorios, como las citocinas interleucina 1b y factor de necrosis tumoral a, pueden ser importantes en el desarrollo de esta enfermedad. Asi, la estimulacion de condrocitos, unico representante del cartilago articular y por ello principal encargado de mantener la matriz extracelular del cartilago, con estas citocinas proinflamatorias incrementa la produccion de las metaloproteasas, enzimas proteoliticas clave en la degradacion irreversible de la arquitectura articular normal. Tambien inhiben la sintesis de proteoglucanos y colageno tipo II, estimulan la produccion de especies reactivas de oxigeno como el oxido nitrico e incrementan la produccion de prostaglandina E2. Asimismo, es evidente que los efectos de la inflamacion sinovial favorecen la desregulacion en la funcion del condrocito y la perdida del equilibrio entre las actividades anabolicas y catabolicas del condrocito, imprescindibles para mantener la integridad articular normal.

Objective Experimental studies and opinion articles emphasize that cardiovascular alterations associated with ageing can be improved by the long-term use of fenofibrates. We analyzed the effect of fenofibrate treatment on the acetylcholine-induced relaxation in rat aorta and the participation of nitric oxide (NO) and cyclooxygenase (COX)-derived factors in this effect. Methods Acetylcholine relaxation in untreated and 6-week fenofibrate-treated Wistar rats was analyzed in the absence and presence of the NO synthase (NOS) inhibitor N G -nitro-l-arginine methyl ester (l-NAME), the specific inducible NO (iNOS) synthase inhibitor 1400W, the nonspecific COX inhibitor indomethacin, the specific COX-2 inhibitor NS-398, the specific thromboxane receptor antagonist SQ-29548, the thromboxane synthesis inhibitor furegrelate, the prostacyclin synthesis inhibitor tranylcypromine, or the 20-HETES synthesis inhibitor formamidine. eNOS, iNOS, COX-1, and COX-2 expression was studied by Western blotting. In addition, production of prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α), thromboxane A2 (TxA2), prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), isoprostanes, and prostacyclin (PGI2) was also measured. Results Fenofibrate treatment reduced acetylcholine relaxation. Indomethacin, NS-398, and tranylcypromine decreased acetylcholine relaxation in untreated rats but enhanced relaxation in treated rats. SQ-29548 increased acetylcholine responses in segments from treated rats but not in segments from untreated rats. l-NAME decreased vasodilator response to acetylcholine in both groups while furegrelate, NS-398, 1400W, and formamidine did not affect acetylcholine responses in either group. eNOS and COX-2 expression was higher in aorta from treated rats while COX-1 and iNOS remained unmodified. Basal and acetylcholine-stimulated NO and PGE2 release were increased, and that of PGI2 decreased in treated rats. TxA2 release was similar, but PGF2α release was undetectable in both groups. Conclusions Although it increases NO production through increases in eNOS expression, fenofibrate treatment induces endothelial dysfunction. This effect seems to be mediated by decreased PGI2 and increased PGE2 release, and it may help to explain the rise in thromboembolic events observed after long-term fenofibrate treatment in humans.

In this work we propose the use of more detailed graphics to study the performance of routing protocols for mobile multihop ad hoc networks when studying the feasibility of providing quality of service to upper layer real--time applications. Classic success ratio and round trip time curves provide important parameters to study and compare routing protocols, but they also mask valuable information about the evolution of the network. This masquerading is due to the averaging techniques used in classic curves. The dynamic behavior of the network makes these curves inappropriate when analyzing routing protocols with quality of service constraints. In order to obtain more detailed graphics, we propose the use of time windows and discrimination of the results on a per link basis. Our proposal provides better comprehension of the routing protocol characteristics and its applicability to quality of service in mobile multihop ad hoc networks.

The RF-DC conversion efficiency of an RF harvesting circuit when it is excited by digitally modulated signals is investigated. A variety of signals with the same average power but different complementary cumulative distribution function (CCDF) and peak-to-average-power ratio (PAPR) properties are applied at the input of a prototype UHF diode rectifier. The rectifier is optimized for maximum efficiency under low average input power levels and the RF-DC conversion efficiency for different output load conditions is evaluated. It is shown that depending on the CCDF and PAPR properties of the applied signal a different optimum load exists which leads to a maximum efficiency.

espanolEl proposito de este trabajo fue la evaluacion de polvos de zanahorias deshidratadas aplicando diferentes tratamientos: temperaturas/ tiempo 50 °C/24 h, 55 °C/22 h y 60 °C/20 h. La deshidratacion se realizo en una estufa por aire forzado BINDER serie FD 115 (Alemania). Se utilizo un diseno completamente aleatorizado con tres tratamientos (temperaturas/tiempo: 50 °C/24 h, 55 °C/22 h y 60 °C/20 h) y cuatro replicas. Las variables dependientes analizadas fueron los parametros fisicos (aw, color (Indice de Blancura: IB), pH), la composicion proximal (humedad, ceniza, grasa, proteina, fibra y carbohidratos) y los parametros nutricionales (carotenos totales y acido ascorbico) de los polvos de zanahoria obtenidos. Los datos fueron analizados mediante un ANAVA, aplicando un paquete estadistico SAS 2009. Para evaluar la diferencia significativa entre los tratamientos se aplico una prueba de media de minima diferencia significativa (m.d.s.) al 5% de probabilidad. Los resultados del presente estudio mostraron que las temperaturas empleadas no ejercieron ningun efecto sobre la aw ni sobre la composicion proximal (humedad, ceniza, grasa, proteinas, fibra y carbohidratos). Los parametros que se vieron afectados con el incremento de la temperatura de deshidratacion fueron: IB, pH, carotenos totales y acido ascorbico. El IB se incremento al aumentar la temperatura de deshidratacion mientras que el pH disminuyo. Los carotenos totales y el acido ascorbico presentaron una mayor degradacion al utilizar mayores temperaturas de deshidratacion. El polvo de zanahoria obtenido por deshidratacion a 50 °C presento menor decoloracion y mejores caracteristicas nutricionales por su mayor contenido de carotenos totales y de acido ascorbico. EnglishThe purpose of this study was the evaluation of carrot powder dehydrated at different trearments: temperatures/time 50 °C/24h, 55 °C/22h and 60 °C/20 °C. Dehydration was in forced air oven BINDER FD 115 (Germany). We used a completely randomized design with three treatments (temperatures 50, 55, 60 °C) and four replications. The dependent variables analyzed were parameters physic (aw, color, pH), the proximate composition (moisture, ash, fat, protein, carbohydrates and fiber) and nutritional parameters (total carotene, ascorbic acid) of carrot powder obtained. Data were analyzed by ANOVA, using a statistical package SAS 2009. The significant differences between treatments were evaluated applied average test least significant difference (mds) at 5% probability. The results of this studied showed that the temperatures used had no effect on the aw or on proximate composition (moisture, ash, fat, protein, fiber and carbohydrates). The parameters that were affected by the increased temperature of dehydration were IB, pH, total carotenes and ascorbic acid. IB was increased with increasing temperature of dehydration while the pH decreased. Total carotenes and ascorbic acid showed more degradation when using higher temperatures of dehydration. Carrot powder obtained by dehydration at 50 °C showed less discoloration and better nutritional characteristics by its higher content of total carotenes and ascorbic acid.

Current knowledge of the behavior of heavy quadricycles under impact is still very poor. One of the most significant causes is the lack of energy absorption in the vehicle frame or its steel chassis structure. For this reason, special steels (with yield stresses equal to or greater than 350 MPa) are commonly used in the automotive industry due to their great strain hardening properties along the plastic zone, which allows good energy absorption under impact. This paper presents a proposal for a steel quadricycle energy absorption system which meets the percentages of energy absorption for conventional vehicles systems. This proposal is validated by explicit dynamics simulation, which will define the whole problem mathematically and verify behavior under impact at speeds of 40 km/h and 56 km/h using the finite element method (FEM). One of the main consequences of this study is that this FEM–based methodology can tackle high nonlinear problems like this one with success, avoiding the need to carry out experimental tests, with consequent economical savings since experimental tests are very expensive. Finally, the conclusions from this innovative research work are given.

The New World species of the genus Argopistes Motschulsky, 1860 are reviewed, illustrated and a key for their identification is provided. Two new species are described: A. turnbowi (Bahamas Islands) and A. woodleyi (Dominican Republic). The lectotype of A. scyrtoides LeConte is designated.

Background and Purpose We investigated whether pregnancy was associated with changed function in components of perivascular mesenteric innervation and the mechanism/s involved. Experimental Approach We used superior mesenteric arteries from female Sprague-Dawley rats divided into two groups: control rats (in oestrous phase) and pregnant rats (20 days of pregnancy). Modifications in the vasoconstrictor response to electrical field stimulation (EFS) were analysed in the presence/absence of phentolamine (alpha-adrenoceptor antagonist) or L-NAME (nitric oxide synthase-NOS- non-specific inhibitor). Vasomotor responses to noradrenaline (NA), and to NO donor DEA-NO were studied, NA and NO release measured and neuronal NOS (nNOS) expression/activation analysed. Key Results EFS induced a lower frequency-dependent contraction in pregnant than in control rats. Phentolamine decreased EFS-induced vasoconstriction in segments from both experimental groups, but to a greater extent in control rats. EFS-induced vasoconstriction was increased by L-NAME in arteries from both experimental groups. This increase was greater in segments from pregnant rats. Pregnancy decreased NA release while increasing NO release. nNOS expression was not modified but nNOS activation was increased by pregnancy. Pregnancy decreased NA-induced vasoconstriction response and did not modify DEANO- induced vasodilation response, This study was supported by Ministerio de Economía y Competitividad (SAF2012-38530), Red RIC (RD12/0042/0024), and Fundación MAPFRE. E. Sastre received a FPI-UAM fellowship. L. Caracuel received a fellowship from Alianza 4 Universidades Program.

Objective We analysed the effect of aldosterone on calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) mediated vasodilation in noradrenaline precontracted endothelium denuded mesenteric arteries segments from Wistar Kyoto rats (WKY) and spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) and the effect of aldosterone on calcitonin receptor-like receptor (CL receptor) and receptor activity modifying protein 1 (RAMP1) expression in endothelium-denuded mesenteric arteries from SHR rats. Results CGRP 0.1 nM–0.1 μM induced a concentration-dependent relaxation that was enhanced by aldosterone 1 μM in SHR only. Incubation with RU 486 10 μM significantly reduced the enhancement of CGRP-relaxation produced by aldosterone in SHR. CL receptor expression was not modified in either strain, while RAMP1 expression was enhanced in SHR by aldosterone 1 μM 120 min and 0.1 μM 120 min. This up-regulation of RAMP1 was prevented by RU 486 10 μM. Conclusions Aldosterone, through glucocorticoid receptor activation, increases the vasodilatory effect of CGRP in SHR mesenteric arteries, which seems to be mediated by increased RAMP1 expression.

Background/Aims: A previous study has demonstrated that endogenous male sex hormones do not alter neuronal nitric oxide (NO) release in rat mesenteric artery. However, the regulatory role of endogenous male sex hormones on noradrenaline (NA) release in rat mesenteric artery is not known. The present study was designed to analyze whether endogenous male sex hormones influence the NA release induced by electrical field stimulation (EFS), as well as the possible modification in NA and neuronal NO release by presynaptic β-adrenoceptor activation. Methods: For this purpose, mesenteric arteries from control and orchidectomized male Sprague-Dawley rats were used. Basal and EFS-induced neuronal NO and NA release, as well as the contractile effect induced by EFS, was measured. Results: Basal and EFS-induced neuronal NO and NA release were similar in arteries from control and orchidectomized rats. The β-adrenoceptor agonist clenbuterol did not modify EFS-induced neuronal NO and NA release in arteries from control rats. In contrast, in arteries from orchidectomized animals, clenbuterol increased both neuronal NO and NA release; this increase was prevented by incubation with the β-adrenoceptor antagonist propranolol. However, the contractile response elicited by EFS was not modified by clenbuterol in either group of rats. Conclusions: These results show that orchidectomy does not alter the EFS-induced NA release. What is more, activation of presynaptic β-adrenoceptors does not modify EFS-induced NA and neuronal NO release in arteries from control rats although it increases the release of both neurotransmitters in arteries from orchidectomized rats. Despite these modifications, the EFS-induced contractile response is preserved in arteries from orchidectomized rats.

The present study evaluates the effect of endogenous male sex hormones on the reactivity to α2-adrenoceptor activation, and to analyze the role of the endothelium in this response in intact and endothelially denuded superior mesenteric arteries from control and orchidectomized male Sprague-Dawley rats. The concentration-dependent constriction induced by clonidine was analyzed in the absence and presence of the nitric oxide synthase (NOS) inhibitor, Nω-nitro-L-arginine (L-NAME), cyclooxygenase (COX-1 and COX-2) inhibitors, indomethacin, the specific COX-2 inhibitor NS-398, the thromboxane-prostanoid receptor antagonist SQ29,548 and the thromboxane A2 (TXA2) synthase inhibitor, furegrelate. Endothelial NOS (eNOS), COX-2 and TXA2 synthase protein expression was studied by Western blot analysis. In addition, the basal and clonidine-stimulated production of TXB2, the stable TXA2 metabolite, was also measured. In intact vessels from control male rats, the concentration-dependent constriction induced by clonidine was increased by both L-NAME or endothelial removal, unaltered by indomethacin and decreased by NS-398; in denuded vessels, the clonidine response was decreased by NS-398 and unaltered by L-NAME, indomethacin, SQ29,548 or furegrelate. In intact vessels from orchidectomized rats, the constriction induced by clonidine was increased by L-NAME but practically abolished by indomethacin or NS-398; in endothelially denuded segments the clonidine response was unaltered by L-NAME, but was decreased by indomethacin, NS-398, SQ29,548 or furegrelate. Orchidectomy failed to modify eNOS,COX-2 and TXA2 synthase expression, and increased basal and clonidine-stimulated TXB2 release. These results show that TXA2 produced in smooth muscle cells is increased in mesenteric arteries from orchidectomized rats compared to their controls, and that this prostanoid is functionally involved in the vasoconstrictor response to clonidine only in arteries from the orchidectomized rats.

The aim of the present study was to analyze the possible involvement of vasoconstrictors prostanoids on the reduced endothelium-dependent relaxations produced by chronic administration of aldosterone in Wistar Kyoto rats (WKY) and spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). For this purpose, acetylcholine (ACh) relaxations in aortic segments from both strains were analyzed in absence and presence of the cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1) and COX-2 inhibitor indomethacin, the specific COX-2 inhibitor NS-398, the TP receptor antagonist (SQ 29 548), the thromboxane A 2 (TXA 2 ) synthase inhibitor furegrelate, and the prostacyclin (PGI 2 ) synthesis inhibitor tranylcypromine (TCP). In addition, COX-2 protein expression was studied by Western blot analysis. Release of prostaglandin E 2 (PGE 2 ) and the metabolites of PGF 2α , TXA 2 , and PGI 2 , 13,14-dihydro-15-keto PGF 2a , TXB 2 , and 6-keto-PGF 1α , respectively, were measured. Treatment with aldosterone did not modify blood pressure levels in any strain. However, aldosterone markedly reduced ( P P 2a, PGE 2 , and 6-keto-PGF 1α ( P 1α production ( P 2 seems to be the main factor accounting for endothelial dysfunction in hypertensive rats, whereas other prostanoids besides PGI 2 appear to be involved in endothelial dysfunction under normotensive conditions.

In this work wo present a hierarchical algorithm to evaluate the configuration space of a mobile robot. It is based on convolution of discrete functions that represents the workspace and the robot to obtain a function that represents the C-space. An important aspect is that the representation of discrete functions is made by hierarchical data structures, so the information is highly compact, and high dimensions or/and resolutions workspaces can be considered. It is important to highlight that no only hierarchical data structures are used to the representation, but no other intermediate structures are used for the representation in the algorithm execution. Also, as the algorithm is hierarchical, calculations at high resolutions are performed only in those regions where it is necessary.

Hyperpolarization-activated inward current (If) and changes in the messenger RNA (mRNA) expression levels of hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide-gated channel (HCN)2 and HCN4 encoding If channels of the rat heart were studied in control and hypertrophied myocytes isolated from three ventricular regions: the septum (S), the left ventricular free wall (LV) and the right ventricular free wall (RV). Electrophysiological experiments were conducted by ruptured and perforated-patch clamp techniques and quantification of mRNA levels was carried out by quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction. The occurrence, density and maximal specific conductance of If were found to be significantly higher in hypertrophied ventricular myocytes isolated from S and LV than in those isolated from RV or sham-operated rats. Half-maximal activation potential, the slope of the activation curve and the threshold for activation were similar in ventricular myocytes from sham and aortic stenosed rats in the three regions studied. Isoproterenol 1 micromol l-1 increased current size by shifting current activation to more positive potentials in both sham and hypertrophied myocytes. When we studied the mRNA levels of If channel isoforms present in the ventricle, we found a significant increase of HCN2 and HCN4 mRNA levels in hypertrophied myocytes from S and LV but not in RV. We conclude that the occurrence, density and conductance of If is higher in hypertrophied than in control ventricular myocytes, S being the region where all these changes were most evident. These findings are associated with a higher expression of HCN2 and HCN4 mRNA levels in the two regions that developed hypertrophy., This study was supported by the Ministry of Science and Technology of Spain (SAF99-0068 and BFI2002-00536).

This study presents a lumped model for the human cardiorespiratory system. Specifically, we incorporate a sophisticated gas dissociation and transport system to a fully integrated cardiovascular and pulmonary model. The model provides physiologically consistent predictions in terms of hemodynamic variables such as pressure, flow rate, gas partial pressures, and pH. We perform numerical simulations to evaluate the behavior of the partial pressures of oxygen and carbon dioxide in different vascular and pulmonary compartments. For this, we design the rest condition with low oxygen requirements and carbon dioxide production and exercise conditions with high oxygen demand and carbon dioxide production. Furthermore, model sensitivity to more relevant model parameters is studied. Copyright © 2015 John WileySons, Ltd.

Artículo elaborado a raíz del proyecto de innovación docente:"Desarrollo de la competencia "compromiso ético" durante el practicum a través del estudio de caso y los cuentos", coordinado por Purificación Pérez-García. (Código: 12-146). Año 2013. Aprobado por el Vicerrectorado de Ordenación Académica y Profesorado. Período de ejecución: 25-09-2012 a 10-02-2015 Professionals who have undergone their training at university should possess not only the knowledge-base necessary to practice in their chosen profession, but also the ethical principles that ensure responsible professional practice and the corresponding benefits for society. The research project addressed in the present article aimed to contribute to fostering ethical competence and commitment amongst future teachers. During the experience the participants had the opportunity to design tasks that stimulated reflection, critique and ethical awareness. Specialistai, įgiję universitetinį išsilavinimą, turi būti sukaupę ne tik žinių, kurios būtinos profesinėje veikloje, bet ir gebėti vadovautis etikos principais, kurie užtikrintų atsakingą ir vi- suomenės gerovei reikalingą profesinę veiklą. Tyrime, pristatomame šiame straipsnyje, analizuo- jamos būsimųjų mokytojų etinės kompetencijos plėtros ir atsidavimo darbui problemos. Tyrimo dalyviai turėjo galimybę kurti užduotis, kurios skatino refleksiją, kritiką ir etinį sąmoningumą. Los profesionales que han recibido su formación en la Universidad, poseerán no solo el conocimiento base necesario para la práctica en su profesión, sino también los principios éticos que aseguran la práctica profesional responsable y el correspondiente beneficio para la sociedad. El proyecto de investigación presentado con este título tiene como objetivo contribuir a estimular la competencia ética y el compromiso entre los futuros docentes. Durante la experiencia, los participantes tuvieron la oportunidad de diseñar tareas que estimularan la reflexión, la crítica y la conciencia crítica. Les professionnels ayant reçu leur formation auprès des Universités disposeront, non seulement des connaissances de base nécessaires à l'exercice de leur métier, mais aussi les principes éthiques garantissant un exercice professionnel responsable portant bénéfice sur la société. Le projet de recherche présenté sous ce titre a comme objectif la contribution à la favorisation de la compétence éthique et de l’engagement parmi les futurs enseignants. Lors de cette expérience, les participants ont eu l’occasion d’élaborer des tâches favorisant la réflexion, la critique et la pensée critique. Профессионалы, получившие университетское образование, не только получают основные знания для работы по своей профессии, но и моральные принципы, которые обеспечивают ответственную профессиональную работу и соответствующую выгоду для общества. Целью исследовательского проекта, представленного под этим именем, является участие в стимуляции профессиональной этики и компромисса среди будущих преподавателей. Во время проведения эксперимента, участники получили возможность разработать задания, стимулирующие размышление, критику и критичиское сознание. 在大学接受过培训的专业人员，不仅要具备专业实践所必备的基本知识，还需保证具有负责任的专业实践和相应的社会效益道德原则。该主题的研究项目旨在促进未来教师的道德能力和承诺。在此过程中，参与者有机会设计作业，以激发反思，批评和批判意识 يتحلى المهنيون اللذين تلقوا تعليمهم في الجامعة ليس فقط بالمعرفة الأساسية الضرورية لممارسة مهنتهم، وإنما يكتسبون كذلك المبادئ الأخلاقية التي تضمن الممارسة المهنية المسؤولة والفائدة المترتبة عنها للمجتمع. لمشروع البحث المقدم بهذا العنوان هدف السعي لتنشيط الكفاءات الأخلاقية والإلتزام بين معلمي المستقبل. أتيحت للمشاركون الفرصة، خلال التجربة، لتصميم مهام تحفز التفكير والنقاش والوعي النقدي.

In cerium oxide nanoparticles, the facets exposed control their reactivity and catalytic behavior and hence their performance in applications such as three-way catalysis, gas sensors, or solid fuel cells. Thus, the precise characterization of the cerium oxide facets exposed is crucial. In the present work, the geometry of branched cerium oxide nanoparticles, obtained by means of ligand-controlled overgrowth, is determined through the comparison between High Resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy (HRTEM) experimental and simulated images. Two possible 3D structures, corresponding to octapod and tetrapod geometries, were suggested from a preliminary examination of the experimental HRTEM images. A comparative analysis of the gray scale intensity profiles of the simulated and experimental HRTEM images was then performed. This method proved capable of discriminating between the two proposed geometries, showing CeO2 nanoparticles to have an octapod geometry. The obtained results were further confirmed by comparing High Angular Dark Field experimental and simulated images of the nanoparticles. This method can be suitable whenever 3D-Tomographic reconstruction is not feasible in the TEM, for instance, in the case of highly beam sensitive materials.

BACKGROUND There is some evidence that prior use of macrolide antibiotics is a useful predictor of the likelihood of standard triple therapy failure in Helicobacter pylori eradication. In this study, we have evaluated whether previous intake of macrolides correlates with failure to eradicate H. pylori using two different first-line clarithromycin-containing regimens. MATERIALS AND METHODS Retrospective study of 212 patients with H. pylori infection treated with one of two first-line clarithromycin-containing regimens: 108 patients treated with triple therapy for 10 days and 104 patients treated with concomitant therapy for 10 days. The intake of macrolides (clarithromycin, azithromycin, and other macrolides) prior to the eradication therapy was obtained from the electronic medical record, which contains information regarding all the medication prescribed to the patients since the year 2004. RESULTS One hundred of 212 patients (47.2%) had received at least one treatment with macrolides during the years prior to the eradication therapy. H. pylori eradication rates were significantly lower in patients with previous use compared to patients without previous use of macrolides, both with triple therapy (60.8% vs 92.9%; P

Background The ‘Snoezelen’ is an approach based on stimulation and sensory stimulation proposals, giving priority to the notion of caretaking. The aim of this paper is to present the creation and validation of the COMMUNI-CARE scale. This is a new tool that allows for an evaluation of the psycho-emotional well-being that the patient with dementia shows in a ‘Snoezelen’ multisensory stimulation environment. Methods In total 429 evaluations in 143 multisensory stimulation interventions were made using the COMMUNI-CARE scale, in 16 patients between 53 and 85 years of age, diagnosed with moderate to severe dementia. The goal was to evaluate the psycho-emotional well-being the patients present. Results The tool’s internal consistency showed a Crombach alpha of 0.90. The concurrent validity between the COMMUNI-CARE scale and the Clinical Global Impression (CGI) was of r = −0.961. The Kappa index used to determine the reliability between evaluators was of K = 0.87. Conclusions The COMMUNI-CARE scale fulfills the basic principles of classic psychometrics of construct, and criterion validity and reliability. It does so while showing a clear idea, through its five subscales (anxiety, communication, pleasure, adaptation to the surroundings and affection), of the degree of well-being that the patient with dementia shows during such interventions. This scale embodies, through psychometrics, a very subjective human experience with a tool unavailable to date.

Activated carbons from two different types of sugar cane wastes, agricultural residues and bagasse, were prepared by phosphoric acid activation varying the carbonization temperature (300−600 °C), the weight ratio of phosphoric acid to precursor (R = 1−2.5), and carbonization time (0−3 h). Surface properties of the resulting carbons were markedly dependent on the precursor and a combined effect of the conditions employed. Bagasse carbons showed higher surface area and pore volume than those from agricultural residues. Maximum surface areas of around 1100 and 780 m2/g were respectively attained. Temperature above 500 °C, impregnation ratio higher than 2, or prolonged carbonization beyond 1 h led to reduction in porosity development. Selected carbons from both wastes with relatively large mean pore radius showed good ability to decolorize a diluted solution of synthetic melanoidin, used as a model of molasses wastewater. Iodine number between 608 and 746 and methylene blue uptake of 213−261 (mg/g) were deter...

Hyperthyroidism is one of the most common endocrinology disorders. Treatment can be either pharmacological, surgical or using radioactive iodine. In Europe methimazole is the antithyroid drug of choice because it can be administered in a single daily dose and has a lower risk of adverse reactions. Around 5% of patients taking thionamides can present any of their side effects, which are usually mild. Liver toxicity due to thionamides is very rare, and severe due to propylthiouracil. We present a clinical case of a cholestatic jaundice and acute toxic hepatitis due to methimazole and a cross-reaction with propylthiouracil. Based on this case a review is presented.

A fungal infection in the right eye after retina detachment on an immunocompetent patient is reported. After surgery, she developed an infection that was empirically treated with antibiotics and corticoids. Later the patient developed another retina and choroid detachment. The infection evolved to endophthalmitis and a sample was sent to the microbiology laboratory, where Aspergillus fumigatus was isolated. In spite of treatment with intravenous and intravitreous amphotericin B, the eye was eventually removed by enucleation.

Not available., En este trabajo hacemos un apretado recorrido en la historia del cognitivismo, con especial atención a la psicología computacional y a la inteligencia artificial (I.A.). Las ideas de símbolo, representación y significado pretenden reunir una serie de ciencias y técnicas, sobre los supuestos escombros de la tradición conductista.

De la mano de Nietzsche y Spengler, esbozaremos un diagnostico sobre la Muerte de la Civilizacion Europea. La Civilizacion es la fase declinante de una Cultura, y haremos ver que los valores ilustrados e ideales de la Modernidad (Igualdad, Derecho, Estado nacional, Progreso) llevados hasta el fin en sus consecuencias son valores letales para la propia Civilizacion europea que los genero.

en este trabajo estudiamos los conceptos de Clase Social, Pueblo, Nacion y Tecnica en la obra de Oswald Spengler, La Decadencia de Occidente, y los ponemos en relacion con la Historia de Espana. Entendemos que el actual estado espanol es el resultado de una dialectica entre Naciones Fausticas y Civilizacion Mediterranea (antigua y arabiga).

Although it is well known that the persistence of extratropical jet shifts is enhanced by a positive eddy feedback, the dynamics of this feedback is still debated. Two types of mechanisms have been proposed: barotropic mechanisms rely on changes in upper-level propagation and baroclinic mechanisms rely on the coupling between barotropic and baroclinic flow. Recent studies have suggested that barotropic models can capture key aspects of the observed jet variability but the role of baroclinic dynamics has been less explored. This study investigates the temporal relations between barotropic and baroclinic anomalies and their eddy forcings during the internal variability of the simple two-layer quasigeostrophic model. A large correlation is found between barotropic and baroclinic anomalies and between the meridional and vertical components of the Eliassen-Palm divergence, especially at low frequency. The low-frequency variability is consistent with the baroclinic mechanism: persistent upper-level eddy momentum convergence is associated with (and precedes) persistent anomalies in the poleward eddy heat flux. In contrast, at high frequency, poleward heat flux anomalies are associated with eddy momentum divergence aloft and both eddy forcings have same-sign contributions to the upper-level eddy potential vorticity (PV) flux. In this limit the eddy PV flux is associated with wave activity transience as effective diffusivity is too small to dissipate the wave-mean flow interaction term. The large correlation between barotropic and baroclinic anomalies implies that the low-frequency variability of barotropic flow may be affected by thermal damping when this damping is sufficiently strong. For example, zonal index persistence drops drastically in our model when baroclinicity shifts are prevented by strong thermal restoration. © 2014 American Meteorological Society.

This study examines the downstream NO release pathway and the contribution of different vasodilator mediators in the acetylcholine-induced response in rat aorta 5-months after the loss of ovarian function. Aortic segments from ovariectomized and control female Sprague-Dawley rats were used to measure: the levels of superoxide anion, the superoxide dismutases (SODs) activity, the cGMP formation, the cGMP-dependent protein kinase (PKG) activity and the involvement of NO, cGMP, hydrogen peroxide and hyperpolarizing mechanisms in the ACh-induced relaxation. The results showed that ovariectomy did not alter ACh-induced relaxation; incubation with L-NAME, a NO synthase inhibitor, decreased the ACh-induced response to a lesser extent in aorta from ovariectomized than from control rats, while ODQ, a guanylate cyclase inhibitor, decreased that response to a similar extent; the blockade of hyperpolarizing mechanisms, by precontracting arteries with KCl, decreased the ACh-induced response to a greater extent in aortas from ovariectomized than those from control rats; catalase, that decomposes hydrogen peroxide, decreased the ACh-induced response only in aorta from ovariectomized rats. In addition, ovariectomy increased superoxide anion levels and SODs activity, decreased cGMP formation and increased PKG activity. Despite the increased superoxide anion and decreased cGMP in aorta from ovariectomized rats, ACh-induced relaxation is maintained by the existence of hyperpolarizing mechanisms in which hydrogen peroxide participates. The greater contribution of hydrogen peroxide in ACh-induced relaxation is due to increased SOD activity, in an attempt to compensate for increased superoxide anion formation. Increased PKG activity could represent a redundant mechanism to ensure vasodilator function in the aorta of ovariectomized rats, This work was supported by grants (to MF) from the Fondo de Investigaciones Sanitarias (PI1100406)

Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate in rat mesenteric artery whether breast feeding (BF) affects the vasomotor response induced by electrical field stimulation (EFS), participation by different innervations in the EFS-induced response and the mechanism/s underlying these possible modifications. Methods: Experiments were performed in female Sprague-Dawley rats (3 months old), divided into three groups: Control (in oestrous phase), mothers after 21 days of BF, and mothers that had recovered their oestral cycle (After BF, in oestrous phase). Vasomotor response to EFS, noradrenaline (NA) and nitric oxide (NO) donor DEA-NO were studied. Neuronal NO synthase (nNOS) and phosphorylated nNOS (P-nNOS) protein expression were analysed and NO, superoxide anion (O2 .-), NA and ATP releases were also determined. Results: EFS-induced contraction was higher in the BF group, and was recovered after BF. 1 μmol/L phentolamine decreased the response to EFS similarly in control and BF rats. NA vasoconstriction and release were similar in both experimental groups. ATP release was higher in segments from BF rats. 0.1 mmol/L L-NAME increased the response to EFS in both control and BF rats, but more so in control animals. BF decreased NO release and did not modify O2 .- production. Vasodilator response to DEA-NO was similar in both groups, while nNOS and P-nNOS expressions were decreased in segments from BF animals. Conclusion: Breast feeding increases EFS-induced contraction in mesenteric arteries, mainly through the decrease of neuronal NO release mediated by decreased nNOS and P-nNOS expression. Sympathetic function is increased through the increased ATP release in BF rats, This study was supported by Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación (SAF 2009-10374) and Red Cardiovascular del Fondo de Investigaciones Sanitarias (RD06/0014/0011)

En este artículo se realiza una propuesta para la docencia de la parte práctica de una asignatura de robótica en una titulación de Grado en Ingeniería Informática. Con objeto de que la asignatura se atractiva y fomentar el interés por parte del alumnado se ha huido de descripciones matemáticas complejas buscado aspectos más comunes a los estudiantes de la titulación como la robótica móvil. Para que el alumnado tenga acceso a practicar con un robot real se ha elegido un robot comercial de bajo coste como es Roomba. La metodología docente, se basa en la elaboración de proyectos tras el visionado de unos videos del robot realizando una acción para que estos consigan reproducirla lo mejor posible, de modo que puedan extraer sus propias conclusiones para llevarlas a la práctica. Así mismo se presentan el conjunto de proyectos que deberán realizar los estudiantes., In this paper we present a proposal for the practical teaching robotics in a Degree in Computer Science. In order to make the course more attractive and stimulate the interest by students complex mathematical descriptions had been avoided. Instead, it focuses in other aspects more related to those degree students such as mobile robotics. To allow students to have access to real robot to practice Roomba robot has been chosen. Teaching methodology is based on project development by students after viewing of a set of videos of the robot performing actions. Then students must obtain a program where the robot behaves in the same way. So, they first have to analyze how the robot gets the behavior to implementing it later. It also presents the set of projects to be undertaken by students.

The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) on the contractile response induced by electrical field stimulation (EFS) in rat mesenteric segments, as well as the mechanisms involved. Effects of LPS incubation for 2 or 5 h were studied in mesenteric segments from male Wistar rats. Vasomotor responses to EFS, nitric oxide (NO) donor DEA-NO, and noradrenaline (NA) were studied. Phosphorylated neuronal NO synthase protein expression was analyzed, and NO, superoxide anion (O2·), and peroxynitrite releases were also determined. Lipopolysaccharide increased EFS-induced vasoconstriction at 2 h. This increase was lower after 5-h preincubation. N-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester increased vasoconstrictor response only in control segments. Vasodilator response to DEA-NO was increased by LPS after 5-h preincubation and was decreased by O2· scavenger tempol. Basal NO release was increased by LPS. Electrical field stimulation-induced NO release was reduced by LPS compared with control conditions. Lipopolysaccharide exposure increased both O2· and peroxynitrite release. Vasoconstriction to exogenous NA was markedly increased by LPS compared with control conditions after 2-h incubation and remained unchanged after 5-h incubation. Short-term exposure of rat mesenteric arteries to LPS produced a time-dependent enhanced contractile response to EFS. The early phase (2 h) was associated to a reduction in NO from neuronal NO synthase and an enhanced response to NA. After 5 h of LPS exposure, this enhancement was reduced, because of restoration of the adrenergic component and maintenance of the nitrergic reduction.