Determinación de los parámetros de productividad en los procesos de carenamiento en un varadero mediano

Productivity parameters were determined in maintenance works of 16 ships in the slipways of ASTINAVE, a medium-size shipyard at Guayaquil, Ecuador, in the period between April 2008 and January 2009. Typical processes applied during ship maintenance, its units for evaluation and a classification chart are presented. With the registered time (Man-Hour, M-H), mean values, standard deviations and variation coefficients were calculated for each process. Mean value results for each work were: Plating replacement: 0.220 M-H/kg, Hull cleaning: 0.435 M-H/m2-machine, Painting: 0.027 M-H/m2-machine, Cathodic protection: 0.116 M-H/Kg, Thickness measurement: 0.030 M-H/test, Propulsion system: 130.92 M-H/line, Steering system: 54.89 M-H/line, Ship docking/undocking: 43.97 M-H/maneuver, Bottom Valves: 15.83 M-H/#valve, and, Fuel tank cleaning: 0.0093 M-H/gal.Se determinaron Parámetros de Productividad en los trabajos de mantenimiento de 16 embarcaciones en el varadero de ASTINAVE, en Guayaquil, Ecuador, en el periodo Abril 08 hasta Enero 2009. Se describen, definen las unidades para su evaluación y se clasifican los procesos típicos que se desarrollan para el mantenimiento de buques. Con los tiempos (hombres-hora) registrados se calcularon los valores medios, desviaciones estándar y Coeficiente de Variación de los parámetros de cada proceso. Los valores medios resultantes son: Cambio de planchaje 0.220 H-H/kg, Limpieza del Casco 0.435 H-H/m2-máq, Pintado 0.027 H-H/m2-máq, Protección catódica 0.116 H-H/Kg, Medición de espesores 0.030 H-H/prueba, Sistema de Propulsión 130.92 H-H/línea, Sistema de Gobierno 54.89 H-H/línea, Varada/Desvarada 43.97 H-H/maniobra, Válvulas de Fondo 15.83 H-H/#válv, y, Tanques de combustible 0.0093 H-H/gal

Waveguide manufacturing technologies for next-generation millimeter-wave antennas

Some recent waveguide-based antennas are presented in this paper, designed for the next generation of communication systems operating at the millimeter-wave band. The presented prototypes have been conceived to be manufactured using different state-of-the-art techniques, involving subtractive and additive approaches. All the designs have used the latest developments in the field of manufacturing to guarantee the required accuracy for operation at millimeter-wave frequencies, where tolerances are extremely tight. Different designs will be presented, including a monopulse antenna combining a comparator network, a mode converter, and a spline profile horn; a tunable phase shifter that is integrated into an array to implement reconfigurability of the main lobe direction; and a conformal array antenna. These prototypes were manufactured by diverse approaches taking into account the waveguide configuration, combining parts with high-precision milling, electrical discharge machining, direct metal laser sintering, or stereolithography with spray metallization, showing very competitive performances at the millimeter-wave band till 40 GHzThis work was supported by the Spanish Government under Grant TEC2016-76070- C3-1/2-R (ADDMATE); in part under Grant PID2020-116968RB-C32/33 (DEWICOM), Agencia Estatal de Investigación MCIN/AEI/10.13039/501100011033, Fondo Europeo de Desarrollo Regional: AEI/FEDER, UE. This work was also partially supported under Grant S2013/ICE3000 (SPADERADARCM), Madrid Regional Governmen

Resistencia a biocidad en cepas de Salmonella SP. aisladas de huevo

Se ha estudiado la presencia de presuntas salmonelas en la superficie de huevos comerciales, y se ha determinado la sensibilidad a biocidas para la colección de cepas ensayadas. El porcentaje de muestras positivas osciló entre el 37% y el 43%. En algunas de las marcas comerciales analizadas no se logró aislar la bacteria en los huevos analizados, mientras que en los huevos de comercios pequeños o granjas se aisló en todas las muestras ensayadas. La mayoría de las cepas fueron inhibidas a una concentración del 0.1% de los biocidas cloruro de benzalconio, cetrimida, hexadecilpiridinio, hexaclorofeno, polihexametil biguanidio o P3 oxonia. Sin embargo, en algunos casos (cetrimida, polihexametil biguanidio o P3 oxonia ) se encontró un bajo porcentaje de cepas que requerían concentraciones de biocida de hasta diez veces superiores para su inhibición. El triclosan mostró una mayor eficacia, inhibiendo al 77% de las cepas a una concentración de 0.075%. Sin embargo, el resto de las cepas fueron muy tolerantes a este biocida, siendo necesaria una concentración del 1% para su inhibición. Los resultados de este estudio sugieren la existenciaWe have studied the presence of presumptive salmonellae in comercial eggs, and the biocide tolerance of isolates. Presumptive salmonellae were detected in some 37 to 43% of samples tested. Some comercial brands were free of the bacterium, but all eggs from local stores and farms tested positive. Most isolates were inhibited by 0.1% of the biocides benzalkonium chloride, cetrimide, hexadecylpyridinium chloride, hexachlorophene, polyhexamethylen biguanide and P3 oxonia. A small percentage of isolates required up to ten-fold higher biocide concentrations for inhibition (as in the case of cetrimide, polyhexamethylen biguanide and P3 oxonia). Triclosan was apparently more effective, inhibiting 77% of isolates at 0.075%. However, the remaining of isolates only were inhibited at 1% of the biocide. Results from this study suggest that a low percentage of the Salmonella population on egg surfaces can tolerate biocides

Las acequias de careo de Sierra Nevada (sur de España), un sistema de recarga ancestral en acuíferos de alta montaña

En las partes altas de Sierra Nevada (sur de España) se realiza, desde época andalusí (Edad Media), un Sistema Integrado de Gestión del Agua Subterránea, en el que las acequias de careo constituyen un elemento clave. Estos canales excavados en el terreno están diseñados para recargar las aguas procedentes del deshielo, a lo largo de su recorrido y en distintas zonas concretas, donde hay una mayor permeabilidad del terreno. Una vez que el agua se infiltra en las partes altas de los valles, pasa a circular lentamente por los acuíferos superficiales y surge por ríos y manantiales situados a media ladera. En este trabajo se presentan los resultados conseguidos mediante el monitoreo e investigación hidrogeológica de una cuenca de 68 km2 (cuenca del río Bérchules), situada en Sierra Nevada, donde se aplica la técnica de careo. Los resultados conseguidos han permitido comprobar que el careo aplana el hidrograma de los ríos de alta montaña, reduciendo su componente nival y aumentando la subterránea. Además contribuye a mantener el caudal de los manantiales y los ecosistemas asociados a esta descarga. Su uso en otras zonas de alta montaña permitiría disponer de una excelente herramienta de adaptación al cambio climático.Instituto Geológico y Minero de España, EspañaUniversidad Politécnica de Cataluña, EspañaAgencia de Medio Ambiente y Agua de la Junta de Andalucía, EspañaUniversidad Pablo de Olavide, EspañaConsejería de Medio Ambiente y Ordenación del Territorio, Junta de Andalucía, EspañaPeer reviewe

Immunosuppression-independent role of regulatory T cells against hypertension-driven renal dysfunctions

Hypertension-associated cardiorenal diseases represent one of the heaviest burdens for current health systems. In addition to hemodynamic damage, recent results have revealed that hematopoietic cells contribute to the development of these diseases by generating proinflammatory and profibrotic environments in the heart and kidney. However, the cell subtypes involved remain poorly characterized. Here we report that CD39+ regulatory T (TREG) cells utilize an immunosuppression-independent mechanism to counteract renal and possibly cardiac damage during angiotensin II (AngII)-dependent hypertension. This mechanism relies on the direct apoptosis of tissue-resident neutrophils by the ecto-ATP diphosphohydrolase activity of CD39. In agreement with this, experimental and genetic alterations in TREG/TH cell ratios have a direct impact on tissue-resident neutrophil numbers, cardiomyocyte hypertrophy, cardiorenal fibrosis, and, to a lesser extent, arterial pressure elevation during AngII-driven hypertension. These results indicate that TREG cells constitute a first protective barrier against hypertension-driven tissue fibrosis and, in addition, suggest new therapeutic avenues to prevent hypertension-linked cardiorenal diseases.This work has been supported by grants from the Castilla-León Autonomous Government (CSI101U13), the Spanish Ministry of Economy and Competitiveness (SAF2012-31371, RD12/0036/0002), Worldwide Cancer Research, the Solórzano Foundation, and the Ramón Areces Foundation to X.R.B. P.M. is funded by the Spanish Ministry of Economy and Competitiveness (SAF2011-27330). S.F., M.M.-M., J.R.-V., and A.M.-M. were supported by the Spanish Ministry of Economy and Competitiveness through BES-2010-031386, CSIC JAE-Doc, Juan de la Cierva, and BES-2009-016103 contracts, respectively. Spanish government-sponsored funding to X.R.B. is partially supported by the European Regional Development Fund.Peer Reviewe

Simplifying the detection of MUTYH mutations by high resolution melting analysis

<p>Abstract</p> <p>Background</p> <p><it>MUTYH</it>-associated polyposis (MAP) is a disorder caused by bi-allelic germline <it>MUTYH </it>mutation, characterized by multiple colorectal adenomas. In order to identify mutations in <it>MUTYH </it>gene we applied High Resolution Melting (HRM) genotyping. HRM analysis is extensively employed as a scanning method for the detection of heterozygous mutations. Therefore, we applied HRM to show effectiveness in detecting homozygous mutations for these clinically important and frequent patients.</p> <p>Methods</p> <p>In this study, we analyzed phenotype and genotype data from 82 patients, with multiple (>= 10) synchronous (19/82) or metachronous (63/82) adenomas and negative <it>APC </it>study (except one case). Analysis was performed by HRM-PCR and direct sequencing, in order to identify mutations in <it>MUTYH </it>exons 7, 12 and 13, where the most prevalent mutations are located. In monoallelic mutation carriers, we evaluated entire <it>MUTYH </it>gene in search of another possible alteration. HRM-PCR was performed with strict conditions in several rounds: the first one to discriminate the heteroduplex patterns and homoduplex patterns and the next ones, in order to refine and confirm parameters. The genotypes obtained were correlated to phenotypic features (number of adenomas (synchronous or metachronous), colorectal cancer (CRC) and family history).</p> <p>Results</p> <p><it>MUTYH </it>germline mutations were found in 15.8% (13/82) of patients. The hot spots, Y179C (exon 7) and G396D (exon 13), were readily identified and other mutations were also detected. Each mutation had a reproducible melting profile by HRM, both heterozygous mutations and homozygous mutations. In our study of 82 patients, biallelic mutation is associated with being a carrier of ≥10 synchronous polyps (p = 0.05) and there is no association between biallelic mutation and CRC (p = 0.39) nor family history (p = 0.63). G338H non-pathogenic polymorphism (exon 12) was found in 23.1% (19/82) of patients. In all cases there was concordance between HRM (first and subsequent rounds) and sequencing data.</p> <p>Conclusions</p> <p>Here, we describe a screening method, HRM, for the detection of both heterozygous and homozygous mutations in the gene encoding <it>MUTYH </it>in selected samples of patients with phenotype of MAP. We refine the capabilities of HRM-PCR and apply it to a gene not yet analyzed by this tool. As clinical decisions will increasingly rely on molecular medicine, the power of identifying germline mutations must be continuously evaluated and improved.</p

Physiological effects of toxic elements on a wild nightjar species

Nightjars are considered human-tolerant species due to the population densities reached in strongly managed landscapes. However, no studies have been done evaluating metal-related effects on physiology, condition or fitness in any nightjar species. The main aim of this study was to evaluate how metal exposure affects physiology and condition in red-necked nightjar (Caprimulgus ruficollis) populations inhabiting three different environments in southeastern Spain: agricultural-urban area (n = 15 individuals), mining area (n = 17) and control area (n = 16).Increased plasma mineral levels (magnesium and calcium) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity were observed in breeding females, and ALP was significantly higher in young birds due to bone growth and development. In the mining-impacted environment, nightjars showed decreased retinol (17.3 and 23.6 mu M in the mining area and control area), uric acid (28.8 and 48.6 mg/dl in the mining area and control area) and albumin (16.2 and 19.6 g/l in the mining area and control area), probably impaired by a combination of toxic metal exposure and low prey quantity/quality in that area. Moreover, they showed increased plasma tocopherol levels (53.4 and 38.6 μM in the mining area and control area) which may be a response to cope with metal-induced oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation. Blood concentrations of toxic metals (As, Pb, Cd and Hg) were negatively associated with calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, ALP, total proteins and body condition index. This could lead to metal-related disorders in mineral metabolism and ALP activity that may potentially increase the risk of skeletal pathologies and consequent risk of fractures in the long term, compromising the survival of individuals. Further studies need to be carried out to evaluate potential metal-related effects on the antioxidant status and bone mineralization of nightjars inhabiting mining environments.</p

Diseño y posicionado de la prótesis inversa de hombro utilizando técnicas de simulación numérica por método de los elementos finitos y biomodelos realizados por impresión 3D

[EN] Purpose. To analyze the positioning and orientation of a reverse shoulder prostheses in the scapula, and to improve its anchorage and adaptation using numerical simulation techniques trough finite element methodology (FEM) and biomodels by 3D printing. Methods. A 3D-virtual biomodel is generated by the CT of a male patient of 70 kg and load in a 4,2 kg arm, operated with RSA. The base plate-scapula is studied by FEM software simulating the mechanical behavior, comparing the intervention against eccentricity conditions of 4 mm and lateralization of 5 mm. The tensions and deformations performed on the interface are analyzed. Results. A reduction of the mechanical stress in the base plate of 23.7% is obtained. A guide-centering device, designed using the 3D printing modeling technique, is designed. Conclusion. The FEM modeling and analysis of the patient¿s personalized shoulder morphology and 3D biomodel help optimum preoperative planning. Printing 3D guides can improve the positioning and anchoring of the RSA base plate.[ES] Objetivo. Analizar el posicionado y orientación de la prótesis inversa de hombro (PIH) en la escápula, y mejorar su anclaje y adaptación utilizando técnicas de Simulación Numérica por metodología de elementos finitos (FEM) y biomodelos realizados por impresión 3D. Métodos. Mediante la TAC de un paciente intervenido de PIH se genera un biomodelo 3D-virtual. Se estudia el conjunto placa base-escápula mediante software FEM simulando el comportamiento mecánico, comparando la intervención frente a unas condiciones de excentricidad de 4 mm y lateralización de 5mm. Se analizan las tensiones y deformaciones ejercidas. Resultados. Se obtiene una reducción de los esfuerzos mecánicos en la placa base de 23,7%. Se diseña un dispositivo de centrado-guía, elaborado mediante la técnica de impresión 3D. Conclusión. El modelado y análisis FEM de la morfología del hombro del paciente y su biomodelo 3D ayudan a una óptima planificación pre-operatoria. La impresión de guías 3D puede mejorar el posicionamiento y anclaje de la placa base de la PIH.Salvador Marín, J.; Piles-Cabo, L.; Seguí, JM.; Sanchez-Caballero, S.; Reig-Pérez, MJ.; Pla-Ferrando, R.; Ferrándiz Bou, S.... (2017). Diseño y posicionado de la prótesis inversa de hombro utilizando técnicas de simulación numérica por método de los elementos finitos y biomodelos realizados por impresión 3D. Revista Española de Cirugía Osteoarticular. 52(271):96-101. http://hdl.handle.net/10251/148361S961015227

IAA : Información y actualidad astronómica (28)

Sumario : Los orígenes de la Ciencia.-- Darwin y la Astrofísica.-- El gran ojo del astrónomo.-- HISTORIAS DE ASTRONOMÍA. Algunos hitos históricos.-- EL “MOBY DICK” DE...José M. Vílchez.-- CIENCIA: PILARES E INCERTIDUMBRES. El telescopio.-- DECONSTRUCCIÓN Y otros ENSAYOS. Carta de Galileo a Cristina de Lorena.-- ANTES Y DESPUÉS... EN IMÁGENES.-- ACTUALIDAD.-- ENTRE BASTIDORES.-- ACTIVIDADES IAA.N