En el presente Articulo nos concentraremos en los gobiernos dominica nos que han tenido su origen... more En el presente Articulo nos concentraremos en los gobiernos dominica nos que han tenido su origen en procesos electorales, con el proposito de analizar algunos elementos de las ultimas elecciones celebradas en el pais, el 16 de mayo del ano 2000.
SOLARPACES 2019: International Conference on Concentrating Solar Power and Chemical Energy Systems, 2020
Plant developers of parabolic trough collector (PTC) systems for industrial steam generation face... more Plant developers of parabolic trough collector (PTC) systems for industrial steam generation face various challenges. Some of the main challenges are availability of land, buildings in the vicinity of the plant that cast shadows on the collectors as well as land restrictions. The typical north-south collector axis alignment in many cases may not be possible due to limits of available ground. These were challenges that were faced in the planning phase for installing a PTC plant on the premises of the KEAN Soft Drinks Ltd factory in Limassol, Cyprus. As these issues cannot be avoided they must be accounted for by the plant developer, especially when a performance guarantee is given. This work presents, amongst other things, factors that should be analysed in order to predict the energy yield in the planning phase as best as possible by using a simulation model. In the sensitivity study presented in this paper, several effects on the energy yield were investigated theoretically. These effects include: Tracking inaccuracy, non-parallel collector row axis orientations as well as north-south vs. east-west collector alignment. A dynamic simulation model developed by the Solar-Institut Jülich (SIJ) [1] was further developed and used for the analysis. The simulation model features a deviation between the measured and simulated oil temperature at the collector outlet of only 1.5 K (rms). The findings are presented in this paper and give an insight into the effectiveness of mid-sized PTC systems for the industry sector.
Revista U.D.C.A Actualidad & Divulgación Científica, 2013
En la presente revisión, se identifican los bioadsorbentes extraídos de biomasas residuales utili... more En la presente revisión, se identifican los bioadsorbentes extraídos de biomasas residuales utilizadas en la remoción de dos metales pesados, que presenta una amplia toxicidad para el ambiente: plomo y níquel. Se evalúa la capacidad de remoción de los mismos, destacando aquellos en los que se han obtenido altos porcentajes de remoción, mostrando la cinética aplicada en estos experimentos. Se encontró, que los bioadsorbentes más usados incluyen residuos de madera, cáscaras de frutos secos, residuos de cereales y cítricos. Para la remoción de plomo (II), el bagazo de caña de azúcar, con una capacidad de remoción de 333mg/g y para el níquel (II), la corteza de Acacia, con una capacidad de remoción de 294,1mg/g, han sido los bioadsorbentes con mayor eficiencia de remoción. Se encuentra que, en la mayoría de los experimentos, la cinética del proceso de adsorción es regida por la ecuación cinética de pseudo-segundo orden. Se recomienda el diseño de plantas piloto para la remoción de iones...
In the present paper we analyzed the transcriptome of CSCs (Cancer Stem Cells), in order to find ... more In the present paper we analyzed the transcriptome of CSCs (Cancer Stem Cells), in order to find defining molecular processes of breast cancer. (2) Methods: We performed RNA-Seq from CSCs isolated from the basal cell line MDA-MB-468. Enriched processes and networks were studied using the IPA (Ingenuity Pathway Analysis) tool. Validation was performed with qRT-PCR and the analysis of relevant genes was evaluated by overexpression, flow cytometry and in vivo zebrafish studies. Finally, the clinical relevance of these results was assessed using reported cohorts. (3) Results: We found that CSCs presented marked differences from the non-CSCs, including enrichment in transduction cascades related to stemness, cellular growth, proliferation and apoptosis. Interestingly, CSCs overexpressed a module of co-regulated Chromosomal Passenger Proteins including BIRC5 (survivin), INCENP and AURKB. Overexpression of BIRC5 increased the number of CSCs, as assessed by in vitro and in vivo zebrafish xenotransplant analyses. Analysis of previously published cohorts showed that this co-regulated module was not only overexpressed in basal breast tumors but also associated with relapse-free and overall survival in these patients. (4) Conclusions: These results underline the importance of Cancer Stem Cells in breast cancer progression and point toward the possible use of chromosomal passenger proteins as prognostic factors.
Objectives Pets influence evacuation decisions, but little is known about pet-friendly emergency ... more Objectives Pets influence evacuation decisions, but little is known about pet-friendly emergency shelters’ availability or older adults’ need for them. Our study addresses this issue, focusing on the most densely populated area of Florida (Miami-Dade)—the state with the oldest population and greatest hurricane susceptibility. Method We use Geographic Information Systems (GIS)–based methodology to identify the shortest paths to pet-friendly shelters, based on distance and congested and uncongested travel times—taking into account the older population’s spatial distribution. Logistic regression models using the 2013 American Housing Survey’s Disaster Planning Module examine anticipated shelter use as a function of pet ownership and requiring pet evacuation assistance. Results Thirty-four percent of older adults in the Miami-Dade area have pets—35% of whom report needing pet evacuation assistance. However, GIS accessibility measures show that travel time factors are likely to impede ol...
ABSTRACT In this work, we study the modes of vibration for various aluminium nitride-actuated squ... more ABSTRACT In this work, we study the modes of vibration for various aluminium nitride-actuated square microplates. We combine electrical and optical techniques to fully characterize the modes of vibration in different media, with special attention to the modes with the highest quality factor. An electronic speckle pattern interferometry technique is used for a full 3D detection of the movement of the microplates, allowing a precise identification of the modal shape, even under liquid immersion. The electrical characterization was carried out with an impedance analyser. Quality factors as high as 6700 were obtained in vacuum, and as high as 155 in isopropanol, for a high order out-of-plane mode. The effective excitation of these modes is made possible by a proper design of the electrode layout.
2015 28th IEEE International Conference on Micro Electro Mechanical Systems (MEMS), 2015
ABSTRACT We realized piezoelectrically self-actuated self-sensing cantilever sensors for liquid m... more ABSTRACT We realized piezoelectrically self-actuated self-sensing cantilever sensors for liquid monitoring purposes excited in higher orders of the roof tile-shaped mode. This advanced class of vibration mode supports very high Q-factors in liquid media and high volume strain values which result in combination with an optimized electrode design in enhanced strain related conductance peaks. Therefore, precise fluid property measurements even for highly viscous liquids like D500 (~ 430 cP) are feasible.
This Letter reports on an advanced out-of-plane bending mode for aluminum-nitride (AlN)-actuated ... more This Letter reports on an advanced out-of-plane bending mode for aluminum-nitride (AlN)-actuated cantilevers. Devices of different thickness were fabricated and characterized by optical and electrical measurements in air and liquid media having viscosities up to 615 cP and compared to the classical out-of-plane bending and torsional modes. Finite element method eigenmode analyses were performed showing excellent agreement with the measured mode shapes and resonance frequencies. Quality factors (Q-factor) and the electrical behavior were evaluated as a function of the cantilever thickness. A very high Q-factor of about 197 was achieved in deionized water at a low resonance frequency of 336 kHz, being up to now, the highest quality factor reported for cantilever sensors in liquid media. Compared to the quality factor of the common fundamental out-of-plane bending mode, a 5 times higher Q-factor was achieved. Furthermore, the strain related conductance peak of the roof tile-shaped mode...
Objective The objective of this study is to determine the effect of two angiotensin-converting en... more Objective The objective of this study is to determine the effect of two angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEi) (Enalapril and Captopril), an angiotensin-II receptor inhibitor (Losartan) and a renin inhibitor (Aliskiren) on renin, TGF-b1 and collagen expressions in human lung fibroblast cultures through real-time PCR and ELISA. Materials and Methods Normal commercial fibroblasts (CCD25) were exposed to 10-6 M of enalapril, captopril, losartan, or aliskiren for 6 h. Subsequently, media were recovered and proteins were concentrated; RNA was extracted from the cells. Real time-PCR and ELISA were performed. Results ACEi and losartan-stimulated fibroblasts showed an increase in the expression of TGF-b1, Collagen-Ia1 (Col-Ia1), and renin (except losartan) vs PolR2A (p \ 0.05), and upregulation of TGF-b1 protein (p \ 0.01), except with aliskiren. Conclusion Results show that ACEis and losartan could play a profibrosing role by inducing the overexpression of molecules such TGF-b1 and Collagen.
American journal of physiology. Lung cellular and molecular physiology, 2003
In this study, we examined the sequential expression of several matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs),... more In this study, we examined the sequential expression of several matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs), and growth factors as well as the presence of apoptosis in a model of pulmonary fibrosis induced in rats with paraquat and hyperoxia. Animals showing neither clinical nor morphological changes with this double aggression were classified as "resistant". Rats were killed at 1, 2, 3, and 6 wk, and lungs were used for collagen content, gene expression by real-time PCR, gelatinolytic activity by zymography, apoptosis by in situ DNA fragmentation, and protein localization by immunohistochemistry. Our results showed a significant decrease of collagenases MMP-8 and MMP-13, with an increase of TIMP-1 and transforming growth factor-beta. Immunoreactive TIMP-1 was increased in experimental rats and primarily localized in alveolar macrophages. Expression of gelatinases MMP-2 and MMP-9 mRNAs was not affected, but lung zymography revealed an ...
2009 12th Euromicro Conference on Digital System Design, Architectures, Methods and Tools, 2009
Abstract Commonly in space systems there are subsystems or instruments with a low or null commun... more Abstract Commonly in space systems there are subsystems or instruments with a low or null communication or processing capabilities. This paper describes a high reliable, low power consumption and small sized Remote Terminal Unit aimed at connecting these subsystems to the ...
American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, 2015
Rationale: Hypersensitivity pneumonitis (HP) represents a lung inflammation provoked by exposure ... more Rationale: Hypersensitivity pneumonitis (HP) represents a lung inflammation provoked by exposure to a variety of antigens. Chronic HP may evolve to lung fibrosis. Bone marrow-derived fibrocytes migrate to injured tissues and contribute to fibrogenesis, but their role in HP is unknown. Objectives: To assess the possible participation of fibrocytes in chronic HP. Methods: CD45 1 /CXCR4 1 /Col-I 1 circulating fibrocytes were evaluated by flow cytometry, and the presence of fibrocytes in HP and normal lungs by confocal microscopy. The concentration of CXCL12 in plasma and bronchoalveolar lavage fluids was quantified by ELISA. The effect of fibrocytes on lung fibroblasts and T lymphocytes was examined in co-cultures. Measurements and Main Results: The percentage of circulating fibrocytes was significantly increased in patients with HP compared with healthy individuals (5.3 6 3.4% vs. 0.8 6 0.7%; P = 0.00004). Numerous fibrocytes were found infiltrating the HP lungs near fibroblasts and lymphocytes. Plasma CXCL12 concentration was significantly increased in patients with HP (2,303.3 6 813.7 vs. 1,385.6 6 318.5 pg/ml; P = 0.00003), and similar results were found in bronchoalveolar lavage fluids. The chemokine was primarily expressed by epithelial cells. In co-cultures, fibrocytes induced on lung fibroblasts a significant increase in the expression of a 1 type I collagen, matrix metalloprotease-1, and platelet-derived growth factor-b. Likewise, fibrocytes induced the up-regulation of CCL2 in HP lymphocytes and fibroblasts. Conclusions: These findings demonstrate that high levels of fibrocytes are present in the peripheral blood of patients with chronic HP and that these cells infiltrate the HP lungs. Fibrocytes may participate in the pathogenesis of HP, amplifying the inflammatory and fibrotic response by paracrine signaling inducing the secretion of a variety of proinflammatory and profibrotic molecules.
In this study, an analogue Q-control circuit is presented, based on a digital feedback loop. In t... more In this study, an analogue Q-control circuit is presented, based on a digital feedback loop. In this approach, a self-actuated and self-sensing piezoelectric microstructure is used in combination with a lock-in amplifier to extract the Q-control feedback signal amplitude which is proportional to the piezoelectric current. In the next step, the DC-value supported by the lock-in amplifier is multiplied with a sine signal on a custom-designed analogue circuit board containing an analogue amplifier IC. This generated analogue feedback signal allows to drive a complete analogue feedback loop enabling faster response of the Q-control and further faster measurements can be performed. Using this Q-factor enhancement technique, the Q-factor was increased from 397 to about 5357 in air without driving the used Q-control approach to its limits. These promising results will push further activities in measuring the viscosity of liquids in the future.
Background: Type I collagen synthesis and degradation are important events during Mycobacterium t... more Background: Type I collagen synthesis and degradation are important events during Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTb) granuloma or cavity formation, and fibroblasts are cells involved in these processes. Objective: We examined the MTb effects on fibroblast collagen metabolism to understand the virulence factors involved in tuberculosis pathogenesis. Methods: Human lung fibroblasts were incubated with culture medium or sonicated MTb H37Ra (avirulent) or H37Rv (virulent) strains. The effects on collagen synthesis, fibroblast proliferation and collagenase activity were examined. Matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1), MMP-13 and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMP-1) mRNA levels were analyzed by quantitative real-time PCR amplification. Protein expression was explored by Western blot technique. Results: Collagen synthesis and fibroblast proliferation were significantly increased by H37Ra medium. In contrast, cells incubated with H37Rv medium showed an increase in collagenase activit...
Elastolysis, collagenolysis and gelatinolysis are essential in the pathogenesis of tobacco smoke-... more Elastolysis, collagenolysis and gelatinolysis are essential in the pathogenesis of tobacco smoke-induced emphysema; however, these activities have been scantily studied in emphysema secondary to woodsmoke. The aim of this study was to analyze elastolysis, collagenolysis and gelatinolysis, MMP-1, MMP-2, and MMP-9 expression, and apoptosis in guinea pigs exposed to smoke produced by 60 g/day of pine wood, 5 days/week, from 1 to 7 months. Histological analysis after 4 to 7 months in smoke exposed guinea pigs showed alveolar mononuclear phagocyte and lymphocytic peribronchiolar inflammation, epithelial and smooth muscle hyperplasia, and pulmonary arterial hypertension. Mild to moderate emphysematous lesions were observed in woodsmoke-exposed animals at 4 to 7 months by increase of mean linear intercepts. A higher percentage of whole blood carboxyhemoglobin (COHb) and elastolytic activity in bronchoalveolar lavage macrophages and lung tissue homogenates was observed at all times. Collagenolysis was increased after 4 to 7 months in woodsmoke-exposed animals, although collagen concentration did not change. Zymography revealed increase in lysis bands of the active MMP-2 and MMP-9 at 4 and 7 months in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and lung tissue homogenate. Positive immunostaining for MMP-1 and MMP-9 was observed in epithelial cells and macrophages in wood exposed animals at 4 to 7 months. Real-time PCR showed MMP-2 and MMP-9 expression at 3 to 7 months in exposed animals. Furthermore, apoptosis was increased at all times in bronchoalveolar lavage macrophages and lung tissue from exposed animals. Results support a role of metalloproteinases and apoptosis in emphysema secondary to woodsmoke exposure.
documentos son de carácter provisional, de responsabilidad exclusiva de sus autores y sus conteni... more documentos son de carácter provisional, de responsabilidad exclusiva de sus autores y sus contenidos no comprometen a la institución. No Título Autores Fecha 46 Los efectos no considerados de la apertura económica en el Fernando MESA PARRA Mayo 1996 mercado laboral industrial. Javier Alberto GUTIÉRREZ 47 Un modelo de Financiamiento óptimo de un aumento Alvaro ZARTA AVILA Junio 1996 permanente en el gasto público: Una ilustración con el caso colombiano. 48 Estadísticas descriptivas del mercado laboral masculino y Rocío RIBERO M.
En el presente Articulo nos concentraremos en los gobiernos dominica nos que han tenido su origen... more En el presente Articulo nos concentraremos en los gobiernos dominica nos que han tenido su origen en procesos electorales, con el proposito de analizar algunos elementos de las ultimas elecciones celebradas en el pais, el 16 de mayo del ano 2000.
SOLARPACES 2019: International Conference on Concentrating Solar Power and Chemical Energy Systems, 2020
Plant developers of parabolic trough collector (PTC) systems for industrial steam generation face... more Plant developers of parabolic trough collector (PTC) systems for industrial steam generation face various challenges. Some of the main challenges are availability of land, buildings in the vicinity of the plant that cast shadows on the collectors as well as land restrictions. The typical north-south collector axis alignment in many cases may not be possible due to limits of available ground. These were challenges that were faced in the planning phase for installing a PTC plant on the premises of the KEAN Soft Drinks Ltd factory in Limassol, Cyprus. As these issues cannot be avoided they must be accounted for by the plant developer, especially when a performance guarantee is given. This work presents, amongst other things, factors that should be analysed in order to predict the energy yield in the planning phase as best as possible by using a simulation model. In the sensitivity study presented in this paper, several effects on the energy yield were investigated theoretically. These effects include: Tracking inaccuracy, non-parallel collector row axis orientations as well as north-south vs. east-west collector alignment. A dynamic simulation model developed by the Solar-Institut Jülich (SIJ) [1] was further developed and used for the analysis. The simulation model features a deviation between the measured and simulated oil temperature at the collector outlet of only 1.5 K (rms). The findings are presented in this paper and give an insight into the effectiveness of mid-sized PTC systems for the industry sector.
Revista U.D.C.A Actualidad & Divulgación Científica, 2013
En la presente revisión, se identifican los bioadsorbentes extraídos de biomasas residuales utili... more En la presente revisión, se identifican los bioadsorbentes extraídos de biomasas residuales utilizadas en la remoción de dos metales pesados, que presenta una amplia toxicidad para el ambiente: plomo y níquel. Se evalúa la capacidad de remoción de los mismos, destacando aquellos en los que se han obtenido altos porcentajes de remoción, mostrando la cinética aplicada en estos experimentos. Se encontró, que los bioadsorbentes más usados incluyen residuos de madera, cáscaras de frutos secos, residuos de cereales y cítricos. Para la remoción de plomo (II), el bagazo de caña de azúcar, con una capacidad de remoción de 333mg/g y para el níquel (II), la corteza de Acacia, con una capacidad de remoción de 294,1mg/g, han sido los bioadsorbentes con mayor eficiencia de remoción. Se encuentra que, en la mayoría de los experimentos, la cinética del proceso de adsorción es regida por la ecuación cinética de pseudo-segundo orden. Se recomienda el diseño de plantas piloto para la remoción de iones...
In the present paper we analyzed the transcriptome of CSCs (Cancer Stem Cells), in order to find ... more In the present paper we analyzed the transcriptome of CSCs (Cancer Stem Cells), in order to find defining molecular processes of breast cancer. (2) Methods: We performed RNA-Seq from CSCs isolated from the basal cell line MDA-MB-468. Enriched processes and networks were studied using the IPA (Ingenuity Pathway Analysis) tool. Validation was performed with qRT-PCR and the analysis of relevant genes was evaluated by overexpression, flow cytometry and in vivo zebrafish studies. Finally, the clinical relevance of these results was assessed using reported cohorts. (3) Results: We found that CSCs presented marked differences from the non-CSCs, including enrichment in transduction cascades related to stemness, cellular growth, proliferation and apoptosis. Interestingly, CSCs overexpressed a module of co-regulated Chromosomal Passenger Proteins including BIRC5 (survivin), INCENP and AURKB. Overexpression of BIRC5 increased the number of CSCs, as assessed by in vitro and in vivo zebrafish xenotransplant analyses. Analysis of previously published cohorts showed that this co-regulated module was not only overexpressed in basal breast tumors but also associated with relapse-free and overall survival in these patients. (4) Conclusions: These results underline the importance of Cancer Stem Cells in breast cancer progression and point toward the possible use of chromosomal passenger proteins as prognostic factors.
Objectives Pets influence evacuation decisions, but little is known about pet-friendly emergency ... more Objectives Pets influence evacuation decisions, but little is known about pet-friendly emergency shelters’ availability or older adults’ need for them. Our study addresses this issue, focusing on the most densely populated area of Florida (Miami-Dade)—the state with the oldest population and greatest hurricane susceptibility. Method We use Geographic Information Systems (GIS)–based methodology to identify the shortest paths to pet-friendly shelters, based on distance and congested and uncongested travel times—taking into account the older population’s spatial distribution. Logistic regression models using the 2013 American Housing Survey’s Disaster Planning Module examine anticipated shelter use as a function of pet ownership and requiring pet evacuation assistance. Results Thirty-four percent of older adults in the Miami-Dade area have pets—35% of whom report needing pet evacuation assistance. However, GIS accessibility measures show that travel time factors are likely to impede ol...
ABSTRACT In this work, we study the modes of vibration for various aluminium nitride-actuated squ... more ABSTRACT In this work, we study the modes of vibration for various aluminium nitride-actuated square microplates. We combine electrical and optical techniques to fully characterize the modes of vibration in different media, with special attention to the modes with the highest quality factor. An electronic speckle pattern interferometry technique is used for a full 3D detection of the movement of the microplates, allowing a precise identification of the modal shape, even under liquid immersion. The electrical characterization was carried out with an impedance analyser. Quality factors as high as 6700 were obtained in vacuum, and as high as 155 in isopropanol, for a high order out-of-plane mode. The effective excitation of these modes is made possible by a proper design of the electrode layout.
2015 28th IEEE International Conference on Micro Electro Mechanical Systems (MEMS), 2015
ABSTRACT We realized piezoelectrically self-actuated self-sensing cantilever sensors for liquid m... more ABSTRACT We realized piezoelectrically self-actuated self-sensing cantilever sensors for liquid monitoring purposes excited in higher orders of the roof tile-shaped mode. This advanced class of vibration mode supports very high Q-factors in liquid media and high volume strain values which result in combination with an optimized electrode design in enhanced strain related conductance peaks. Therefore, precise fluid property measurements even for highly viscous liquids like D500 (~ 430 cP) are feasible.
This Letter reports on an advanced out-of-plane bending mode for aluminum-nitride (AlN)-actuated ... more This Letter reports on an advanced out-of-plane bending mode for aluminum-nitride (AlN)-actuated cantilevers. Devices of different thickness were fabricated and characterized by optical and electrical measurements in air and liquid media having viscosities up to 615 cP and compared to the classical out-of-plane bending and torsional modes. Finite element method eigenmode analyses were performed showing excellent agreement with the measured mode shapes and resonance frequencies. Quality factors (Q-factor) and the electrical behavior were evaluated as a function of the cantilever thickness. A very high Q-factor of about 197 was achieved in deionized water at a low resonance frequency of 336 kHz, being up to now, the highest quality factor reported for cantilever sensors in liquid media. Compared to the quality factor of the common fundamental out-of-plane bending mode, a 5 times higher Q-factor was achieved. Furthermore, the strain related conductance peak of the roof tile-shaped mode...
Objective The objective of this study is to determine the effect of two angiotensin-converting en... more Objective The objective of this study is to determine the effect of two angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEi) (Enalapril and Captopril), an angiotensin-II receptor inhibitor (Losartan) and a renin inhibitor (Aliskiren) on renin, TGF-b1 and collagen expressions in human lung fibroblast cultures through real-time PCR and ELISA. Materials and Methods Normal commercial fibroblasts (CCD25) were exposed to 10-6 M of enalapril, captopril, losartan, or aliskiren for 6 h. Subsequently, media were recovered and proteins were concentrated; RNA was extracted from the cells. Real time-PCR and ELISA were performed. Results ACEi and losartan-stimulated fibroblasts showed an increase in the expression of TGF-b1, Collagen-Ia1 (Col-Ia1), and renin (except losartan) vs PolR2A (p \ 0.05), and upregulation of TGF-b1 protein (p \ 0.01), except with aliskiren. Conclusion Results show that ACEis and losartan could play a profibrosing role by inducing the overexpression of molecules such TGF-b1 and Collagen.
American journal of physiology. Lung cellular and molecular physiology, 2003
In this study, we examined the sequential expression of several matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs),... more In this study, we examined the sequential expression of several matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs), and growth factors as well as the presence of apoptosis in a model of pulmonary fibrosis induced in rats with paraquat and hyperoxia. Animals showing neither clinical nor morphological changes with this double aggression were classified as "resistant". Rats were killed at 1, 2, 3, and 6 wk, and lungs were used for collagen content, gene expression by real-time PCR, gelatinolytic activity by zymography, apoptosis by in situ DNA fragmentation, and protein localization by immunohistochemistry. Our results showed a significant decrease of collagenases MMP-8 and MMP-13, with an increase of TIMP-1 and transforming growth factor-beta. Immunoreactive TIMP-1 was increased in experimental rats and primarily localized in alveolar macrophages. Expression of gelatinases MMP-2 and MMP-9 mRNAs was not affected, but lung zymography revealed an ...
2009 12th Euromicro Conference on Digital System Design, Architectures, Methods and Tools, 2009
Abstract Commonly in space systems there are subsystems or instruments with a low or null commun... more Abstract Commonly in space systems there are subsystems or instruments with a low or null communication or processing capabilities. This paper describes a high reliable, low power consumption and small sized Remote Terminal Unit aimed at connecting these subsystems to the ...
American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, 2015
Rationale: Hypersensitivity pneumonitis (HP) represents a lung inflammation provoked by exposure ... more Rationale: Hypersensitivity pneumonitis (HP) represents a lung inflammation provoked by exposure to a variety of antigens. Chronic HP may evolve to lung fibrosis. Bone marrow-derived fibrocytes migrate to injured tissues and contribute to fibrogenesis, but their role in HP is unknown. Objectives: To assess the possible participation of fibrocytes in chronic HP. Methods: CD45 1 /CXCR4 1 /Col-I 1 circulating fibrocytes were evaluated by flow cytometry, and the presence of fibrocytes in HP and normal lungs by confocal microscopy. The concentration of CXCL12 in plasma and bronchoalveolar lavage fluids was quantified by ELISA. The effect of fibrocytes on lung fibroblasts and T lymphocytes was examined in co-cultures. Measurements and Main Results: The percentage of circulating fibrocytes was significantly increased in patients with HP compared with healthy individuals (5.3 6 3.4% vs. 0.8 6 0.7%; P = 0.00004). Numerous fibrocytes were found infiltrating the HP lungs near fibroblasts and lymphocytes. Plasma CXCL12 concentration was significantly increased in patients with HP (2,303.3 6 813.7 vs. 1,385.6 6 318.5 pg/ml; P = 0.00003), and similar results were found in bronchoalveolar lavage fluids. The chemokine was primarily expressed by epithelial cells. In co-cultures, fibrocytes induced on lung fibroblasts a significant increase in the expression of a 1 type I collagen, matrix metalloprotease-1, and platelet-derived growth factor-b. Likewise, fibrocytes induced the up-regulation of CCL2 in HP lymphocytes and fibroblasts. Conclusions: These findings demonstrate that high levels of fibrocytes are present in the peripheral blood of patients with chronic HP and that these cells infiltrate the HP lungs. Fibrocytes may participate in the pathogenesis of HP, amplifying the inflammatory and fibrotic response by paracrine signaling inducing the secretion of a variety of proinflammatory and profibrotic molecules.
In this study, an analogue Q-control circuit is presented, based on a digital feedback loop. In t... more In this study, an analogue Q-control circuit is presented, based on a digital feedback loop. In this approach, a self-actuated and self-sensing piezoelectric microstructure is used in combination with a lock-in amplifier to extract the Q-control feedback signal amplitude which is proportional to the piezoelectric current. In the next step, the DC-value supported by the lock-in amplifier is multiplied with a sine signal on a custom-designed analogue circuit board containing an analogue amplifier IC. This generated analogue feedback signal allows to drive a complete analogue feedback loop enabling faster response of the Q-control and further faster measurements can be performed. Using this Q-factor enhancement technique, the Q-factor was increased from 397 to about 5357 in air without driving the used Q-control approach to its limits. These promising results will push further activities in measuring the viscosity of liquids in the future.
Background: Type I collagen synthesis and degradation are important events during Mycobacterium t... more Background: Type I collagen synthesis and degradation are important events during Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTb) granuloma or cavity formation, and fibroblasts are cells involved in these processes. Objective: We examined the MTb effects on fibroblast collagen metabolism to understand the virulence factors involved in tuberculosis pathogenesis. Methods: Human lung fibroblasts were incubated with culture medium or sonicated MTb H37Ra (avirulent) or H37Rv (virulent) strains. The effects on collagen synthesis, fibroblast proliferation and collagenase activity were examined. Matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1), MMP-13 and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMP-1) mRNA levels were analyzed by quantitative real-time PCR amplification. Protein expression was explored by Western blot technique. Results: Collagen synthesis and fibroblast proliferation were significantly increased by H37Ra medium. In contrast, cells incubated with H37Rv medium showed an increase in collagenase activit...
Elastolysis, collagenolysis and gelatinolysis are essential in the pathogenesis of tobacco smoke-... more Elastolysis, collagenolysis and gelatinolysis are essential in the pathogenesis of tobacco smoke-induced emphysema; however, these activities have been scantily studied in emphysema secondary to woodsmoke. The aim of this study was to analyze elastolysis, collagenolysis and gelatinolysis, MMP-1, MMP-2, and MMP-9 expression, and apoptosis in guinea pigs exposed to smoke produced by 60 g/day of pine wood, 5 days/week, from 1 to 7 months. Histological analysis after 4 to 7 months in smoke exposed guinea pigs showed alveolar mononuclear phagocyte and lymphocytic peribronchiolar inflammation, epithelial and smooth muscle hyperplasia, and pulmonary arterial hypertension. Mild to moderate emphysematous lesions were observed in woodsmoke-exposed animals at 4 to 7 months by increase of mean linear intercepts. A higher percentage of whole blood carboxyhemoglobin (COHb) and elastolytic activity in bronchoalveolar lavage macrophages and lung tissue homogenates was observed at all times. Collagenolysis was increased after 4 to 7 months in woodsmoke-exposed animals, although collagen concentration did not change. Zymography revealed increase in lysis bands of the active MMP-2 and MMP-9 at 4 and 7 months in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and lung tissue homogenate. Positive immunostaining for MMP-1 and MMP-9 was observed in epithelial cells and macrophages in wood exposed animals at 4 to 7 months. Real-time PCR showed MMP-2 and MMP-9 expression at 3 to 7 months in exposed animals. Furthermore, apoptosis was increased at all times in bronchoalveolar lavage macrophages and lung tissue from exposed animals. Results support a role of metalloproteinases and apoptosis in emphysema secondary to woodsmoke exposure.
documentos son de carácter provisional, de responsabilidad exclusiva de sus autores y sus conteni... more documentos son de carácter provisional, de responsabilidad exclusiva de sus autores y sus contenidos no comprometen a la institución. No Título Autores Fecha 46 Los efectos no considerados de la apertura económica en el Fernando MESA PARRA Mayo 1996 mercado laboral industrial. Javier Alberto GUTIÉRREZ 47 Un modelo de Financiamiento óptimo de un aumento Alvaro ZARTA AVILA Junio 1996 permanente en el gasto público: Una ilustración con el caso colombiano. 48 Estadísticas descriptivas del mercado laboral masculino y Rocío RIBERO M.
Uploads
Papers by victor ruiz