Accurate internal cavities and kissing bond sizing in metal plates by using the time-of-flight of laser-induced ultrasound waves.

This paper presents a nondestructive method for accurately identifying internal flaws in metal plates, which is crucial for ensuring structural integrity in safety-critical applications. The technique relies on analyzing laser-induced ultrasound (LIU) longitudinal wave time-of-flight, as demonstrated through a theoretical five-layer model. Experimental validation was conducted using a piezo-sensor in contact with a slab containing millimetric artificial cavities immersed in air, resulting in a discrepancy of 5.05%. In contrast, experiments performed in a water medium exhibited a lower discrepancy of 2.5%. (Discrepancy refers to differences between measurements obtained through an experimental time-of-flight analysis and caliper measurements.) The results obtained in water-based experiments affirm the accuracy of the proposed model. B-scan measurements and the five-layer model were utilized to generate 2D reconstructed images, enabling precise localization and sizing of cavities and kissing bonds between plates, finding an average size of kissing bond of 30 µm. In conclusion, the proposed five-layer model, based on a longitudinal wave time-of-flight analysis, provides a straightforward framework for an easy cavity and kissing bond measurements in metal plates.

Studies of the transition between amplified spontaneous emission and optical lasing in ultrahigh-Q polymeric micro-pedestals.

In this work, we demonstrate the properties of Rhodamine B-doped polymeric cylindrical microlasers to perform either as gain amplification devices through amplified spontaneous emission (ASE) or as optical lasing gain devices. A study based on different %wt concentrations of microcavity families with distinct geometrical features demonstrates the characteristic dependence on either gain amplification phenomena. Principal component analysis (PCA) discriminates the relationship between the main ASE and lasing properties and the geometrical aspects of the cavity families. ASE and optical lasing thresholds were found, respectively, as low as 0.2 µJcm-2 and 0.1 µJcm-2 passing the best-reported microlaser performances in literature for cylindrical cavities, even in comparison with those based on 2D patterns. Moreover, our microlasers showed ultrahigh Q-factor of ∼3 × 106, and for the first time, to the best of our knowledge, a visible emission comb constituted by above a hundred peaks at 40 µJcm-2 with a registered free spectral range (FSR) of 0.25 nm corroborated through the whispery gallery mode (WGM) theory.

Red fluorescent benzothiadiazole derivative loaded in different nanoformulations: Optical properties and their use in bio-imaging.

Fluorophores with optimized nonlinear optical properties have become prominent as contrast labels in laser scanning microscopy (LSM). The purpose of this work is to report on a novel benzothiadiazole derivative, namely 4,7-bis(5-((9,9-dioctyl-9H-fluoren-2-yl)ethynyl)thiophen-2-yl)benzo[c][1,2,5]thiadiazole (EFBT) and its optical performance when it is loaded into organic nanostructures intended as labels for LSM. Four different nanostructured labels were prepared: i) EFBT-loaded silica nanoparticles (SiNPs); ii) folate-bioconjugated SiNPs (SiNPs-FA); iii) EFBT-loaded PEGylated nanoparticles (NPs-PEG); and iv) EFBT-loaded folate-terminated PEGylated nanoparticles (NPs-PEG-FA). All these nanostructures are reported through a comparative study of their linear and nonlinear optical properties, including their performance as exogenous label agents in the cervical cancer cell line HeLa. This assessment of the performance of a specific fluorophore loaded into different nanostructured matrices (labels), and fairly compared under the same characterization conditions, including the LSM settings, is less common while previous reports had focused in comparing silica and PEGylated nanoparticles but loaded with different fluorophores. The results show that the internal molecular organization into each type of organic nanostructure impacted differently the properties of EFBT, where the silica matrix tend to preserve the optical performance of the fluorophore by preventing intermolecular interactions; in contrast, PEGylated nanoparticles favored molecular interactions and introduced non-radiative decay channels that degrades drastically the optical performance. Nevertheless, the use of functionalized ends entities produced a better cellular label uptake with PEGylated that with silica nanoparticles. In overall, the NPs-PEG-FA label produced the best HeLa imaging.

Understanding the abundance of the rare sugar ß-D-allose.

The conformational landscape of ß-D-allose, a rare sugar, was investigated using laser ablation in combination with high-resolution rotational spectroscopy. Altogether, three species are identified, exhibiting a counter-clockwise intramolecular hydrogen bond network. The effect of epimerization on the main aldohexose is also studied and, despite the main conformers being very similar, the position of the hydroxyl groups in allose allows the formation of considerably stronger intramolecular hydrogen bonds than in glucose, and this could explain the low abundance of ß-D-allose in Nature.

The eight structures of caffeic acid: a jet-cooled laser ablated rotational study.

This work reports a complete conformational analysis of caffeic acid, an exceptionally versatile pharmacophore, using laser ablation chirped-pulse Fourier transform microwave spectroscopy. The whole conformational space consisting of eight distinct species has been fully deciphered based on the trend of the rotational constants supported by theoretical computations. We show how rotational spectroscopy can be confidently used to distinguish between conformers even when the structural differences are minimal, such as those involved in the conformational panorama of caffeic acid. Additionally, the structural information here provided, such as the planarity observed in all the conformers, could help to elucidate the mechanisms underlying the biological and pharmacological activity of hydroxycinnamic acids.

Low-cost fabrication of microlasers based on polymeric micropedestals.

Our current work exploits direct laser writing (DLW) and low one-photon absorption (LOPA) in a low-cost three-dimensional optical fabrication system designed to print micrometric polymeric structures. Micropedestals were obtained by focusing a laser beam on a photoresist layer deposited on a silica glass substrate. Subsequent coating with rhodamine 6G dye allows these pedestals to function as microlasers upon optical excitation at 532 nm. Our microlasers, with a diameter of ∼53µm and a height of ∼40µm, exhibit a broad fluorescence peak in the spectral range 540-600 nm, in addition to narrow lasing peaks, exhibiting quality factors Q exceeding 2000 and a lasing threshold of ∼5µJcm-2. The observed free spectral range associated with the lasing peaks of ∼1.3nm is consistent with simulations, which we include in this paper. In addition, we present simulations for the longitudinal shift of the patterning laser spot, which occurs particularly for relatively thick photoresist layers, coupled with a large index contrast at the photoresist top surface. Such a shift could introduce errors in the resulting microfabricated structures if left unaccounted for. We hope that our work will contribute to the development of microlasers for various photonic applications, particularly if dimensions can be reduced, for on-chip optical communications and data processing.

Diabetic nephropathy produces alterations in the tissue expression profile of the orphan receptors GPR149, GPR153, GPR176, TAAR3, TAAR5 and TAAR9 in Wistar rats.

Diabetes mellitus is a debilitating health care problem affecting 382 million people around the world and one of the most common complications is diabetic nephropathy. For this reason, it is important to try to identify new mechanisms that could be involved in diabetes. A new class of receptors has been reported, called orphan receptors because the associated ligand and signaling cascades are unknown. These receptors could be an important source of targets for the treatment of many diseases such as diabetes and its associated complications like diabetic nephropathy. Therefore, the aim of this work was to study expression of the orphan receptors GPR149, GPR153, GPR176, TAAR3, TAAR5 and TAAR9 in the kidney of diabetic rats. We used male Wistar rats at 10-12 weeks of age. Diabetes was induced by a single dose of streptozotocin (60 mg/kg i.p.). After 4 weeks, tissues were obtained, and the expression of the mRNAs was measured by RT-PCR. Our results showed that the orphan receptors are expressed in a different way in the kidney. In conclusion, we suggest that orphan receptors could be involved in the development of diabetic nephropathy.

Autoevaluación diagnóstica en enfermería / Diagnostic self-assessment in nursing / Autoavaliação diagnóstica em enfermagem

Resumen Introducción La evaluación educativa en enfermería que se realiza en la ENEO, ha representado múltiples esfuerzos de proyectos institucionales de carácter formativo. A más de dos décadas de experiencia, se requiere realizar un diagnóstico que permita identificar fortalezas y debilidades en tres componentes: planes de estudios, docencia y evaluación de los alumnos por exámenes. Objetivo Implementar la autoevaluación colegiada para identificar las fortalezas y debilidades de planes de estudio, docencia y exámenes, para valorar el aprovechamiento escolar de los alumnos del sistema escolarizado. Método El método fue exploratorio, con muestreo no probabilístico. Participaron 27 docentes en total, 25 mujeres y dos hombres, todos profesores de tiempo completo durante 14 sesiones totales, cuatro para cada uno de los grupos y sus objetos de evaluación y dos sesiones plenarias, una al inicio y otra al final. Se diseñó la autoevaluación estructurada de acuerdo con el Modelo Contexto, Insumo, Proceso y Producto (CIPP), para cada objeto de evaluación (plan de estudios, docencia y exámenes), se conformaron tres grupos durante cuatro sesiones de dos horas cada una y dos plenarias. Resultados En los tres componentes, el mayor promedio se ubica en las dificultades de los resultados institucionales y la mayor fortaleza se ubicó para planes de estudios, las debilidades se orientaron al bajo impacto de los exámenes. Conclusiones La evaluación educativa en enfermería sigue un modelo unilateral que limita la calidad y la toma de decisiones; para la mejora de las licenciaturas se requiere la presencia de otros actores a fin de fortalecerlas.

Abstract Introduction The assessment of nursing education at the National School of Nursing and Obstetrics has reflected diverse efforts from institutional projects. After two decades of experiences, it becomes necessary to carry out a diagnosis which can identify strengths and weaknesses related to three major components: study plans, teaching, and evaluation of students by means of exams. Objective To implement a collegiate self-assessment to identify strengths and weaknesses related to the study plans, the teaching process, and the given exams, to estimate the school performance of students within the in-situ system. Method This is an exploratory study with non-probabilistic sampling. There were 27 participants, 25 female and 2 male, all full-time professors, 4 for each one of the groups and its evaluation objects, and 2 plenary sessions, one at the beginning and the other at the end. A structured self-assessment was designed following the Context, Supply, Process and Product Model for each object of assessment (study plan, teaching, and exams). Results In the three components, the highest average concerns the difficulties of the institutional results, while the greatest strength were on the study plans, and the weaknesses were on the low impact of the exams. Conclusions Education assessment in nursing follows a unilateral model which limits the quality and decision making. In order to improve the undergraduate programs, it is necessary to include other corresponding actors and stakeholders.

Resumo Introdução A avaliação educacional em enfermagem que é realizada na ENEO, tem representado múltiplos esforços de projetos institucionais de natureza formativa. Com mais de duas décadas de experiência, um diagnóstico é necessário para identificar pontos fortes e fracos em três componentes: currículos, ensino e avaliação dos alunos por meio de exames. Objetivo: Implementar a autoavaliação colegiada para identificar os pontos fortes e fracos dos planos de estudo, ensino e exames, para avaliar o desempenho escolar dos alunos no sistema escolar. Método O método foi exploratório, com amostragem não probabilística. Um total de 27 professores participaram, 25 mulheres e dois homens, todos professores em tempo integral para 14 sessões no total, quatro para cada um dos grupos e seus objetos de avaliação e duas sessões plenárias, uma no início e uma no final. A auto-avaliação estruturada foi elaborada de acordo com o Contexto, Insumo, Processo e Modelo de Produto (CIPP), para cada objeto de avaliação (programa, ensino e exames), três grupos foram formados durante quatro sessões de duas horas cada e dois plenárias. Resultados Nos três componentes, a maior média está localizada nas dificuldades dos resultados institucionais e a maior força foi colocada nos planos de estudo, as fragilidades foram orientadas para o baixo impacto dos exames. Conclusões A avaliação educacional em enfermagem segue um modelo unilateral que limita qualidade e tomada de decisão; para a melhoria dos graus, é necessária a presença de outros atores para fortalecê-los.

Unveiling square and triangular optical lattices: a comparative study.

We study square and triangular optical lattice formation using a diffraction technique with light-possessing orbital angular momentum (OAM). We demonstrate that it is possible to use Fraunhofer diffraction of light by a square aperture to unveil OAM about two times bigger than would be possible with a triangular aperture. We notice that the pattern remains truncated until a topological charge (TC) equal to 20 with good precision. Even though a square pattern cannot be used to determine the TC sign, it is possible to measure high order of the modulus and sign of the TC up to 20, combining patterns of the triangular and square apertures.

Mycophenolate as maintenance therapy for lupus nephritis with impaired renal function.

BACKGROUND: Mycophenolate (MF) is effective as a maintenance therapy after induction therapy in patients with lupus nephritis (LN). However, little is known about its role in patients with impaired renal function. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of MF as a maintenance therapy for LN and its association with renal function. METHODS: Data were obtained for 56 Spanish patients who were receiving MF as a maintenance therapy for LN. Patients were classified into two groups according to renal function at the initiation of MF treatment: group 1 [estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) ≥60 ml/min/1.73 m(2)] and group 2 (eGFR <60 ml/min/1.73 m(2)). The primary endpoints of the study were the rates of renal relapse and responses, and their relationship with baseline renal function. Secondary outcomes were the appearance of side effects during treatment. RESULTS: At initiation of MF treatment, the only differences between the groups were for age, hemoglobin levels, anti-DNA antibody titer, proteinuria, and renal function. In group 1 (n = 38), the eGFR was 98 ± 34 ml/min/1.73 m(2) and in group 2 (n = 18) the eGFR was 43 ± 14 ml/min/1.73 m(2). Only 3 cases had an eGFR <30 ml/min/1.73 m(2). No significant differences were observed in the rate of relapse at 6 months (group 1: 20%; group 2: 23%) or at 12 months (group 1: 25%; group 2: 17%). Response rates were also similar in both groups. Side effects were unremarkable. CONCLUSIONS: MF is effective and safe as a maintenance therapy for LN both in patients with normal renal function and in those with renal impairment.

Mycophenolate as induction therapy in lupus nephritis with renal function impairment.

BACKGROUND: Mycophenolate (MF) is effective as induction therapy for lupus nephritis (LN) in patients with normal renal function; however, little is known about its role in patients with impaired renal failure. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the response to MF in LN and its association with baseline renal function. METHODS: Data were obtained for 90 patients from 12 Spanish renal units who were receiving MF as induction therapy for LN. Patients were classified into 2 groups: group 1 (estimated glomerular filtration rate [eGFR] ≥60 ml/min/1.73 m(2)) and group 2 (eGFR <60 ml/min/ 1.73 m(2)). The primary outcome measure was the percentage of patients who achieved any response and its relationship with initial eGFR. The secondary outcome measures were the percentage of patients who achieved a complete response (CR) or partial response (PR) and the appearance of relapses during treatment and side effects. RESULTS: At initiation of MF treatment, there were no differences in the main parameters between group 1 (n = 63; eGFR 87 ± 23 ml/min/ 1.73 m(2)) and group 2 (n = 27; eGFR 44 ± 12 ml/min/1.73 m(2)). Exposure to prednisone and MF was similar. The percentages of patients who achieved a response in groups 1 and 2 were, respectively, 69.2 and 43.8% at 6 months and 81.3 and 73.7% at 12 months. CR was more frequent in group 1, whereas PR was similar in both groups. Four patients relapsed and side effects were unremarkable. CONCLUSIONS: MF is effective and safe as induction therapy for LN, and response is even achieved in patients with baseline renal impairment.

Optical Photoacoustic Detection of Circulating Melanoma Cells In Vitro.

The purpose of this research was to investigate the sensitivity of a system for the detection of circulating melanoma cells based on the thermoelastic properties of melanoma. The method employs photoacoustic (PA) excitation coupled with an optical transducer capable of determining the presence of cells within the circulating system in vitro. The transducer is based on stress wave-induced changes of the optical reflectance of a glass-water interface, probed with a continuous laser beam that is incident at an angle close to the critical angle of total internal reflection. A frequency tripled Nd:YAG laser pumping an optical parametric oscillator was employed to provide 532 nm and 620 nm laser light with a pulse duration of 10 ns. A custom-made flow chamber was used as an excitation and acoustic wave collection device. The targets were a human melanoma cell line HS 936 with an average diameter of about 15 µm. Melanoma cells were suspended in 10 mL of two types of media. The first one was Tyrode's buffer in concentrations ranging from 10 to 50 cells per µL, and the second one included 10(6) healthy white blood cells per mL of Tyrode's buffer. PA pressure waves were detected by an optical stress transducer. Detection trials resulted in a detection threshold of the order of one individual cell, indicating the effectiveness of the proposed mechanism. Results imply the potential to assay simple blood samples, from healthy and metastatic patients, to test the presence of cancerous melanoma providing an unprecedented method for screening metastatic disease.

Axial band scaling for bidisperse mixtures in granular tumblers.

Axial banding in rotating tumblers has been experimentally observed, but the dependence of band formation on the relative concentration of the bidisperse particles has not been thoroughly examined. We consider axial band formation and coarsening for dry and liquid granular systems of bidisperse mixtures of glass beads where the small particle volume fraction ranges from 10% to 90% in half-filled tumblers for several rotation rates. Single bands form for small particle volume fractions as low as 10% and as high as 90%, usually near the end walls. Band formation along the entire length of the tumbler is less likely at very low or very high volume fractions. After many rotations the segregation pattern coarsens, and for small particle volume fractions of 50% and greater, the coarsening is logarithmic. For very low or very high small particle volume fractions, the rate of coarsening is either not logarithmic or coarsening does not occur within the duration of the experiment (600 rotations). When bands form, the width of the band for either the small or large particles scales with the tumbler diameter.

¿Se puede optimizar el bloqueo del sistema reninaangiotensina en las nefropatías proteinúricas? / No disponible

No disponible

Tacrolimus monotherapy in membranous nephropathy: a randomized controlled trial.

Membranous nephropathy is a common cause of nephrotic syndrome in adults. Although some patients with membranous nephropathy achieve a spontaneous remission, renal function continues to deteriorate in others. We conducted a prospective randomized trial evaluating monotherapy with tacrolimus to achieve complete or partial remission in patients with biopsy-proven membranous nephropathy. Twenty-five patients received tacrolimus (0.05 mg/kg/day) over 12 months with a 6-month taper, whereas 23 patients were in the control group. The probability of remission in the treatment group was 58, 82, and 94% after 6, 12, and 18 months but only 10, 24, and 35%, respectively in the control group. The decrease in proteinuria was significantly greater in the treatment group. Notably, six patients in the control group and only one in the treatment group reached the secondary end point of a 50% increase in their serum creatinine. No patient in the tacrolimus group showed a relapse during the taper period. Nephrotic syndrome reappeared in almost half of the patients who were in remission by the 18th month after tacrolimus withdrawal. We conclude that tacrolimus is a very useful therapeutic option for patients with membranous nephropathy and preserved renal function. The majority of patients experienced remission with a significant reduction in the risk for deteriorating renal function.

Raman spectroscopy and multivariate analysis of serum samples from breast cancer patients.

Serum samples were studied using Raman spectroscopy and analyzed through the multivariate statistical methods of principal component analysis (PCA) and linear discriminant analysis (LDA). The blood samples were obtained from 11 patients who were clinically diagnosed with breast cancer and 12 healthy volunteer controls. The PCA allowed us to define the wavelength differences between the spectral bands of the control and patient groups. However, since the differences in the involved molecules were in their tertiary or quaternary structure, it was not possible to determine what molecule caused the observed differences in the spectra. The ratio of the corresponding band intensities were analyzed by calculating the p values and it was found that only seven of these band ratios were significant and corresponded to proteins, phospholipids, and polysaccharides. These specific bands might be helpful during screening for breast cancer using Raman Spectroscopy of serum samples. It is also shown that serum samples from patients with breast cancer and from the control group can be discriminated when the LDA is applied to their Raman spectra.