bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Early Postoperative Pain Following Epi-LASIK and Photorefractive Keratectomy: A Prospective, Comparative, Bilateral Study
Authors: Torres Luis F , Sancho Cristhian , Tan Bryan , Padilla Karina , Schanzlin David J , Chayet Arturo S
Published: December 2018

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: To compare postoperative pain associated with epi-LASIK versus photorefractive keratectomy (PRK).

METHODS: This prospective observer-masked randomized study included 40 eyes of 20 patients with myopia and astigmatism who received epi-LASIK (Moria Epi-K) in one eye and PRK in the contralateral eye. Corneal ablation was done using the NIDEK EC-5000 excimer laser. Patients were seen at days 1, 3, and 6 to rate their pain via three measuring tools: 1) a global subjective rating, 2) a 10-cm visual analog scale, and 3) an 11-point numeric scale of pain.

RESULTS: On postoperative day 1, 19 of 20 patients reported pain in both eyes. Using the global subjective rating scale, patients reported more pain for those eyes treated by PRK. Although clinically relevant, this difference was not statistically significant (P=. 56). Based on the 11-point numeric scale of pain and visual analog scale, mean pain scores were similar for both groups. On day 3, using the global subjective rating scale, 11 of 12 patients who had pain reported more in the epiLASIK treated eye (P= .0005). In addition, epi-LASIK eyes demonstrated higher mean pain scores based on the other two scales (visual analog scale, P= .045 and 11-point numeric scale of pain, P= .023). Only 6 patients reported minimal pain on day 6. It was more frequently reported and slightly more marked in epi-LASIK eyes, but did not reach statistical significance.

CONCLUSIONS: Epi-LASIK and PRK have similar pain on postoperative day 1, but epi-LASIK demonstrated statistically more pain than PRK on days 3 and 6. [J Refract Surg. 2007;23:126-132.]
Endothelial Cell Loss After Toric Iris-fixated Phakic Intraocular Lens Implantation: Three-year Follow-up
Authors: Tehrani Mana , Dick H Burkhard
Published: December 2018

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: To study quantitative changes in endothelial cell count after implantation of the toric iris-fixated phakic intraocular lens.

METHODS: A prospective, non-randomized, self-controlled clinical trial was conducted of 40 eyes (28 myopic, 12 hyperopic) of 23 patients with high ametropia and astigmatism. Non-contact computer-assisted endothelial microscopy was performed before and I1 2, and 3 years after surgery.

RESULTS: In the myopic group, mean preoperative endothelial cell count was 3179±531 cells/mm
p 2
(range: 1800 to 3900 cells/mm2). The mean intraindividual endothelial cell loss was -1.83±2.25% (range: -9.09% to 0%) in the first year; -1.83+2.95% (range: -7.74% to 3.80%) in the second year; and -3.20±4.43% (range: -14.25% to 1.91%) three years after surgery, compared to preoperative values. In the hyperopic group, mean preoperative endothelial cell count was 3107 ±125 cells/mm2 (range: 2932 to 3300 cells/mm2). The mean endothelial cell loss was -1.63+1.76% (range: -3.23% to 1.67%) in the first year; -0.05+1.25% (range: -1.65% to 1.75%) in the second year; and -2.88±2.03% (range: -5.33% to -0.13%) three years after surgery, compared to preoperative values.

CONCLUSIONS: Annual cumulative cell loss was -1.9% for the myopic group and -1.6% for the hyperopic group, which is two to three times greater than physiological annual cell loss in normal eyes without surgery. An annual endothelial cell count analysis is highly recommended in every patient after iris-claw lens implantation to detect potential progressive cell loss at an early stage. [J Refract Surg. 2007;23:172-177.]
Contrast Sensitivity After LASIK Flap Creation With a Femtosecond Laser and a Mechanical Microkeratome
Authors: Montés-Micó Robert , Rodríguez-Galietero Antonio , Alió Jorge L , Cerviño Alejandro
Published: December 2018

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: To compare the effects on contrast sensitivity of the IntraLase femtosecond laser for flap creation (IntraLASIK) and standard LASIK for myopia.

METHODS: Two hundred eyes of 100 consecutive patients underwent LASIK treatment using the VISX S2 laser system. The femtosecond laser (15 kHz IntraLase) was used for flap creation in 100 eyes (50 patients) and a mechanical microkeratome (Carriazo-Barraquer) was used in 100 eyes (50 patients). Best spectacle-corrected contrast sensitivity was measured before and 6 months postoperatively in the IntraLASIK and mechanical LASIK groups. The IntraLASIK and mechanical LASIKinduced changes in contrast sensitivity were compared under photopic (85 cd/m2) and mesopic (5, 2.5, and 0.1 cd/m2) conditions.

RESULTS: Contrast sensitivity for eyes after IntraLASIK did not differ from preoperative values at the photopic level (85 cd/m2). However, under mesopic conditions, a statistically significant reduction (P<.01) in contrast sensitivity was found at high spatial frequencies (12 and 18 cpd), although no significant contrast sensitivity differences were observed at low and middle spatial frequencies (P>.01 for 1.5, 3, and 6 cpd). No statistically significant differences were found between IntraLASIK and mechanical LASIK for 1.5,3, and 6 cpd at any luminance level (P>.01). IntraLASIK showed better contrast sensitivity than mechanical LASIK under mesopic conditions at 12 cpd and photopic and mesopic conditions at 18 cpd (P<.01).

CONCLUSIONS: IntraLASIK surgery demonstrated better contrast sensitivity at high spatial frequencies under photopic and mesopic conditions than mechanical LASIK. [J Refract Surg. 2007;23:188-192.]
Retreatment of Hyperopia After Primary Hyperopic LASIK
Authors: Ortega-Usobiaga Julio , Cobo-Soriano Rosario , Llovet Fernando , Ramos Francisco , Beltrán Jaime , Baviera-Sabater Julio
Published: December 2018

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: To evaluate factors that influence retreatment results after primary hyperopic LASIK.

METHODS: Restrospective study of 86 eyes of 61 patients that underwent LASIK to correct primary hyperopic spherical equivalent refraction and a second hyperopic retreatment due to undercorrection. All procedures were performed with the Technolas Keracor 217C excimer laser, lifting the preexisting flap for the retreatment. Preoperatively, under cycloplegia, mean spherical equivalent refraction of the series was +3.05±0.99 diopters (D).

RESULTS: At last follow-up, mean spherical equivalent refraction was -0.07 ±0.50 D. Efficacy of the retreatment procedure was better when the primary LASIK attempted spherical equivalent refraction correction was <+3.00 D (P<.05). Safety of retreatment was lower when attempted spherical equivalent refraction correction was >+1.00 D (P<.05) and when attempted spherical equivalent refraction correction of both procedures combined was >+4.00D(P<.05).

CONCLUSIONS: Efficacy, safety, and predictability of retreatments secondary to undercorrection after primary hyperopic LASIK may be affected depending on the amount of diopters corrected in the primary procedure, in the retreatment procedure, and in both primary and retreatment procedures combined. [J Refract Surg. 2007;23:201-205.]
Tear Volume and Stability After LASIK
Authors: Patel Sudi , Alió Jorge L , Artola Alberto , Martinez Maria-Jose
Published: December 2018

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: To monitor tear volume and tear film stability before and after LASIK.

METHODS: Tear meniscus height at the mid-point above the lower eyelid and tear thinning time were measured using videokeratography in both eyes before bilateral LASIK and at 1, 3, and 6 months postoperatively. Patients predisposed to dry eye before surgery were excluded.

RESULTS: Twenty-six patients (52 eyes) were monitored. Mean tear meniscus height values were: preoperative, 0.26+0.09 mm; 1 month, 0.24±0.07 mm; 3 months, 0.26±0.07 mm; and 6 months, 0.26+0.06 mm. The differences were not significant. Change in tear meniscus height at 1 month was 0. 1395-0. 601[preoperative tear meniscus height] (r= -0.701, P<.0001, n=52). On average, tear thinning time was not affected by LASIK. When preoperative tear thinning time was <20 seconds, individual changes in tear thinning time at 3 and 6 months were significant (P<.05) but not at 1 month (P= .206).

CONCLUSIONS: Average tear meniscus height and stability are not affected by LASIK; however, there is considerable variability between individual eyes. [J Refract Surg. 2007;23:290-298.]
A 60 kHz IntraLase Femtosecond Laser Creates a Smoother LASIK Stromal Bed Surface Compared to a Zyoptix XP Mechanical Microkeratome in Human Donor Eyes
Authors: Sarayba Melvin A , Ignacio Teresa S , Tran Dan B , Binder Perry S
Published: December 2018

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: To compare the stromal surfaces created by the latest mechanical microkeratome and femtosecond laser technologies.

METHODS: Laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) flaps were created in six fresh human globes unsuitable for transplantation. The eyes were placed in one of two groups of three globes each. One group had LASIK flaps created with a Zyoptix XP microkeratome using a 120-µm head and a fresh blade for each eye. Another group had flaps created at an attempted 100-µm thickness using the 60 kHz IntraLase femtosecond laser. Immediately following flap creation, the stromal beds were prepared for scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Qualitative roughness of the SEM images was graded by masked observers. Quantitative roughness of the SEM images was assessed using computerized software designed for roughness analysis. Mann-Whitney non-parametric statistical analysis was performed to compare groups.

RESULTS: A statistically significant difference was noted in bed smoothness as measured by qualitative roughness and quantitative roughness scores. The IntraLase samples showed smoother stromal beds compared to the Zyoptix group (qualitative roughness = 2.0+0.7 pm vs 3.6+1.6 pm, P= .03; quantitative roughness = 20238+1869 pm vs 26368+8133 pm, P= .03).

CONCLUSIONS: The 60 kHz IntraLase femtosecond laser and the Zyoptix XP 120-µm head using a new blade produced smooth, good quality, compact stromal beds qualitatively and quantitatively. Because the 60 kHz femtosecond laser permits a tight spot/line separation using low energy, it creates a smoother corneal stromal bed compared to previous femtosecond laser engines. [J Refract Surg. 2007;23:331-337.]
Dry Eye and Corneal Sensitivity After High Myopic LASIK
Authors: Tuisku Ilpo S , Lindbohm Nina , Wilson Steven E , Tervo Timo M
Published: December 2018

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: To assess subjective symptoms and objective clinical signs of dry eye and investigate corneal sensitivity after high myopic LASIK.

METHODS: Twenty eyes of 20 patients with a mean age of 34±7.5 years who had undergone high myopic LASIK 2 to 5 years previously and 10 eyes of 10 controls with a mean age of 39.8±10.4 years were enrolled in the study. Clinical signs of dry eye and subjective dry eye symptoms were determined. The corneal sensitivity was assessed using non-contact esthesiometer.

RESULTS: The preoperative spherical equivalent refraction was -11.40±1.40 diopters (D) (range: -9.10 to -14.00 D) and the intended spherical equivalent refraction correction was -10.40±1.10 D (range: -8.30 to -12.50 D). Schirmer'stest score was 14.4+8.9 mm in patients and 9.0±4.2 mm in controls (P= .066). The break-up time was 15.9 ±11.2 seconds in patients and 14.0±10.0 seconds in controls (P=. 505). The mean corneal sensitivity was 73.5±29.6 mL/min in patients and 78.0±18.7 mL/min in controls (P=. 666). The majority (55%) of patients still reported dry eye symptoms. Ocular surface disease index indicating degree of dry eye symptoms was significantly higher in LASIK patients (18.6+13.4%) compared to controls (7.5±5.7%; P=.022).

CONCLUSIONS: The majority of patients who received LASIK for high myopia reported ongoing dry eye symptoms, although objective clinical signs of tear insufficiency and hypoesthesia were not demonstrable. We assume that symptoms represent a form of corneal neuropathy rather than dry eye syndrome. [J Refract Surg. 2007;23:338-342.]
Corneal Radii and Anterior Chamber Depth Measurements Using the IOLMaster Versus the Pentacam
Authors: Reuland Mirjam S , Reuland Andreas J , Nishi Yutaro , Auffarth Gerd U
Published: December 2018

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: Corneal radii (R1, R2) and anterior chamber depth are important parameters for biometry and refractive surgery. This study aimed to investigate whether the IOLMaster, a biometric device, and the Pentacam, a rotating Scheimpflug camera, provide comparable results.

METHODS: In this prospective study, corneal radii and anterior chamber depth were analyzed in 82 eyes of 41 phakic patients (median age 72 years) using the IOLMaster and Pentacam. Normal distribution was confirmed using the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test. A paired t test was used for statistical analysis.

RESULTS: No statistically significant difference was noted for R2 using the Pentacam versus the IOLMaster (P=.40). There was a small statistical difference of 0.03 mm (P<.01) for R1 (corresponding to 0.08 diopters [D]). The IOLMaster measured a mean R1 of 7.87 mm and R2 of 7.67 mm. The Pentacam measured mean R1 of 7.90 mm and R2 of 7.69 mm. For anterior chamber depth values, a small statistically significant difference of 0.05 mm (P<.001) was found (corresponding to 0.01 D). Mean anterior chamber depth measured from the epithelium was 3.20 mm for the IOLMaster and 3.25 mm for the Pentacam. The Bland-Altman plot showed no distorting trends for either variable.

CONCLUSIONS: Keratometry and anterior chamber depth were comparable for the two devices. If the axial length is known, the Pentacam can be used as a biometric device. [J Refract Surg. 2007;23:368-373.]
Theoretical Comparison of Aberration-correcting Customized and Aspheric Intraocular Lenses
Authors: Piers Patricia A , Weeber Henk A , Artal Pablo , Norrby Sverker
Published: December 2018

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: To assess the performance and optical limitations of standard, aspheric, and wavefront-customized intraocular lenses (IOLs) using clinically verified pseudophakic eye models.

METHODS: White light pseudophakic eye models were constructed from physical measurements performed on 46 individual cataract patients and subsequently verified using the clinically measured contrast sensitivity function (CSF) and wavefront aberration of pseudophakic patients implanted with two different types of IOLs. These models are then used to design IOLs that correct the astigmatism and higher order aberrations of each individual eye model's cornea and to investigate how this correction would affect visual benefit, subjective tolerance to lens misalignment (tilt, decentration, and rotation), and depth of field.

RESULTS: Physiological eye models and clinical outcomes show similar levels of higher order aberration and contrast improvement. Customized correction of ocular wavefront aberrations with an IOL results in contrast improvements on the order of 200% over the control and the Tecnis IOLs. The customized lenses can be, on average, decentered by as much as 0.8 mm, tilted >10°, and rotated as much as 15° before their polychromatic modulation transfer function at 8 cycles/degree is less than that of the Tecnis or spherical control lens. Correction of wavefront aberration results in a narrower through focus curve but better out of focus performance for ± 0.50 diopters.

CONCLUSIONS: The use of realistic eye models that include higher order aberrations and chromatic aberrations are important when determining the impact of new IOL designs. Customized IOLs show the potential to improve visual performance. [J Refract Surg. 2007;23:374-384.]
Notas sobre Tanacetum corymbosum s. l. (Asteraceae)
Authors: Iamonico D.
Published: December 2018

Se presenta un estudio nomenclatural y taxonómico sobre Chrysanthemum italicum L., C. achilleae L., C. tanacetifolium Pourr., Pyrethrum cinereum Griseb., P. clusii Fisch. ex Rchb., P. clusii Tausch, P. daucifolium Pers. y P. tenuifolium Ten., táxones que pertenecen al grupo crítico de Tanacetum corymbosum. Se propone una nueva clasificación infraespecífica de Tanacetum corymbosum (L.) Sch. Bip. s. l. y se reconocen cinco subespecies sobre la base de un estudio morfológico del material tipo y otros especímenes. Se proporciona una clave de diagnóstico de los táxones estudiados. Se propone también un cambio nomenclatural, i.e. Tanacetum corymbosum subsp. daucifolium (Pers.) Iamonico comb. nov. Se designan lectotipos para los nombres Chrysanthemum cinereum (espécimen conservado en GOET), Chrysanthemum achilleae (imagen de Micheli), Chrysanthemum italicum (en LINN), Pyrethrum clusii de Rechenbach (ilustración de Clusius), Pyrethrum tenuifolium (en G) y Pyrethrum clusii de Tausch (imagen de Clusius). Se designa un neotipo para Chrysanthemum tanacetifolium (en P).
Closing the Knowledge Gap for Ultra Deep Blowouts: Foci of the C-IMAGE Research Consortium
Authors: Murawski Steven A. , Gilbert Sherryl
Published: December 2018

AbstractThe Center for Integrated Modeling and Analysis of Gulf Ecosystems (C-IMAGE) is a research consortium of 19 U.S. and international partners focused on examining the effects of oil spills on marine environments. Through its continued funding from GoMRI, our researchers
have developed innovative methodologies and technologies to examine the near and far field nature of deep blowouts with their unique physicochemical properties. Laboratory studies at our high-pressure facilities have mimicked the release of gas saturated oil under deep sea initial conditions
and provided data critical for oil transport models. The results from these far-field transport models are used to inform the extensive field effort to examine the short- and long-term impact of marine oil spills on the environment.
Novel Application of Laboratory Instrumentation Characterizes Mass Settling Dynamics of Oil-Mineral Aggregates (OMAs) and Oil-Mineral-Microbial Interactions
Authors: Ye Leiping , Manning Andrew J. , Hsu Tian-Jian , Morey Steve , Chassignet Eric P. , Ippolito Tracy A.
Published: December 2018

AbstractIt is reasonable to assume that microbes played an important role in determining the eventual fate of oil spilled during the 2010 Deepwater Horizon disaster, given that microbial activities in the Gulf of Mexico are significant and diverse. However, critical
gaps exist in our knowledge of how microbes influence the biodegradation and accumulation of petroleum in the water column and in marine sediments of the deep ocean and the shelf. Ultimately, this limited understanding impedes the ability to forecast the fate of future oil spills, specifically
the capacity of numerical models to simulate the transport and fate of petroleum under a variety of conditions and regimes.By synthesizing recent model developments and results from field- and laboratory-based microbial studies, the Consortium for Simulation of Oil-Microbial Interactions
in the Ocean (CSOMIO) investigates (a) how microbial biodegradation influences accumulation of petroleum in the water column and in marine sediments and (b) how biodegradation can be influenced by environmental conditions and impact forecasts of potential future oil spills.
Utilizing Recirculating Aquaculture Systems to Evaluate the Impact of Oil Toxicity on Marine Fishes: Design and Operation of a Large-Scale Experimental System
Authors: Main Kevan L. , Wetzel Dana L. , Grams Randy , Nystrom Michael J. , Niebuhr Karen , Lewis Jim
Published: December 2018

AbstractThe long-term damage of oil spills and recovery efforts on wild fishery populations are not well understood. In order to assess potential biological effects of dispersed oil exposure on Gulf of Mexico fishery populations, C-IMAGE (Center for Integrating Modeling and
Analysis of the Gulf Ecosystem) scientists examined the sublethal impacts resulting from the 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill through a combination of field collections and controlled laboratory exposure experiments. Mote Marine Laboratory scientists and Complete Water Services, LLC
(Marietta, GA), engineers partnered to design, develop, and operate a large-scale, zero-discharge, experimental oil contaminant exposure system at Mote Aquaculture Research Park in Sarasota, Florida. This exposure system is linked to a recirculating aquaculture system (RAS) designed to maintain
water quality and water chemistry within acceptable parameters and to remove oil and dispersant from system water during the filtration process. Equipment was sourced to ensure that potential oil co-contaminants were not retained within the system. Water quality (oxygen, pH, salinity, temperature)
and chemistry (ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, and alkalinity) parameters were monitored and controlled to maintain appropriate environmental conditions for marine fish during experimental trials. The concentrations of petroleum components throughout the system during exposure trials were monitored
to ensure that the system was meeting the design parameters. Experimental trials were conducted using the exposure system with three important Gulf of Mexico marine fishes, Florida pompano (Trachinotus carolinus), red drum (Sciaenops ocellatus), and Southern flounder (Paralichthys
lethostigma). These trials examined the impacts of dispersed oil exposure on facets of fish health including gene expression, transcriptome, immune function, DNA damage, shifts in the microbiome, reproductive potential and success, and the F1 generation from exposed parents. The system
was operated successfully through the trials and allowed us to maintain consistent and appropriate water quality conditions in the experimental tanks. The recirculating filtration system successfully maintained water chemistry and removed oil contaminants during the fish exposure trials. The
application of the system technology applied in this study has broader applications than the study of hydrocarbon impacts and opens the door for investigation of a wide range of different contaminants.
In-Situ Shadowgraph Imaging
Authors: Greer Adam T.
Published: December 2018

AbstractVarious imaging systems are producing complex data that improve our understanding of physical and biological coupling in the ocean. In-situ shadowgraph imaging is one sampling technique that captures detailed biological information for a wide range of plankton with
differing body compositions (e.g., gelatinous to crustacean) in their natural orientations, as well as small-scale physical changes. When combined with rapidly advancing computer vision methods and high-resolution oceanographic observations, shadowgraph imagery holds promise for generating
new discoveries in ocean science that are only limited by our creativity in asking new questions.
A High-Throughput Method (ASE-GC/MS/MS/MRM) for Quantification of Multiple Hydrocarbon Compounds in Marine Environmental Samples
Authors: Romero Isabel C.
Published: December 2018

AbstractA high-throughput method was applied in small and complex environmental samples for targeting multiple organic fractions (polar, nonpolar). The analytical method consists of a single-step lipid extraction and purification procedure (accelerated solvent extraction
[ASE] system) coupled with a single-run step using gas chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry, operated in multiple reaction monitoring mode (GC/MS/MS/MRM). Successful application of this method is summarized for multiple chemical groups (aliphatics, terpanes, steranes, triaromatic steroids,
polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, and oxidation products).
Infrared Polarimetric Sensing of Oil on Water
Authors: Chenault David B. , Vaden Justin P. , Mitchell Douglas A. , Demicco Erik D.
Published: December 2018

AbstractInfrared polarimetry for surface spill detection is an emerging sensing modality shown to significantly enhance contrast in situations where conventional thermal imaging cannot detect a spill. Imaging of the polarization signatures of oil and water in a scene can
lead to enhanced understanding, particularly when the materials in a scene are at thermal equilibrium. Testing at Ohmsett has shown good performance with multiple types of crude oil, diesel fuel, and kerosene in several different viewing geometries. Over the course of two separate tests at
Ohmsett, recoverable oil was detected during day and night, in calm water and in waves, when puddled on sand and rocks, with and without dispersant, on the surface after subsurface releases, and for fresh, aged, and emulsified oil. In-situ testing has confirmed these capabilities. This new
remote sensing capability offers the promise of automated detection of oil spills and leaks for routine monitoring and accident response with the added benefit of continued monitoring at night. The camera has a small form factor that is compatible with all types of platforms including small
drones. Polaris Sensor Technologies has tested this technology extensively at the Ohmsett Test Facility with several opportunistic tests in the Gulf of Mexico and near Santa Barbara, CA, with an emphasis on finding the limits of performance. In this paper, we describe the instrumentation and
the test results in both controlled and uncontrolled conditions.
Technological Advances in Drifters for Oil Transport Studies
Authors: Novelli Guillaume , Guigand Cédric M. , Özgökmen Tamay M.
Published: December 2018

AbstractAdvances in drifter technology applied to oil spill studies from 1970 to the present are summarized here. Initially, drifters designed for oil spill response were intended to remotely track trajectories of accidental spills and help guide responders. Most recently,
inexpensive biodegradable drifters were developed for massive deployments, making it possible to significantly improve numerical transport models and to investigate, via observations, the processes leading to dispersion and accumulation of surface pollutants across multiple scales. Over the
past 50 years, drifters have benefited from constant improvements in electronics for accurate and frequent location and data transmission, as well as progress in material sciences to reduce fabrication costs and minimize the environmental impact of sacrificial instruments. The large amount
of in-situ data provided by drifters, covering a broad area, is crucial to validate the numerical models and remote sensing products that are becoming more important in guiding response and policy decisions.
IRF5 Is Required for Bacterial Clearance in Human M1-Polarized Macrophages, and IRF5 Immune-Mediated Disease Risk Variants Modulate This Outcome
Authors: Hedl Matija , Yan Jie , Witt Heiko , Abraham Clara
Published: December 2018

Common IFN regulatory factor 5 (IRF5) variants associated with multiple immune-mediated diseases are a major determinant of interindividual variability in pattern recognition receptor (PRR)–induced cytokines in macrophages. PRR-initiated pathways also contribute to bacterial clearance, and dysregulation of bacterial clearance can contribute to immune-mediated diseases. However, the role of IRF5 in macrophage-mediated bacterial clearance is not well defined. Furthermore, it is unclear if macrophages from individuals who are carriers of low IRF5-expressing genetic variants associated with protection for immune-mediated diseases might be at a disadvantage in bacterial clearance. We found that IRF5 was required for optimal bacterial clearance in PRR-stimulated, M1-differentiated human macrophages. Mechanisms regulated by IRF5 included inducing reactive oxygen species through p40phox, p47phox and p67phox, NOS2, and autophagy through ATG5. Complementing these pathways in IRF5-deficient M1 macrophages restored bacterial clearance. Further, these antimicrobial pathways required the activation of IRF5-dependent MAPK, NF-κB, and Akt2 pathways. Importantly, relative to high IRF5-expressing rs2004640/rs2280714 TT/TT immune-mediated disease risk-carrier human macrophages, M1-differentiated GG/CC carrier macrophages demonstrated less reactive oxygen species, NOS2, and autophagy pathway induction and, consequently, reduced bacterial clearance. Increasing IRF5 expression to the rs2004640/rs2280714 TT/TT levels restored these antimicrobial pathways. We define mechanisms wherein common IRF5 genetic variants modulate bacterial clearance, thereby highlighting that immune-mediated disease risk IRF5 carriers might be relatively protected from microbial-associated diseases.
Human Anti–HIV-1 gp120 Monoclonal Antibodies with Neutralizing Activity Cloned from Humanized Mice Infected with HIV-1
Authors: Gawron Melissa A. , Duval Mark , Carbone Claudia , Jaiswal Smita , Wallace Aaron , Martin Joseph C. , Dauphin Ann , Brehm Michael A. , Greiner Dale L. , Shultz Leonard D. , Luban Jeremy , Cavacini Lisa A.
Published: December 2018

Broadly neutralizing, anti–HIV-1 gp120 mAbs have been isolated from infected individuals, and there is considerable interest in developing these reagents for Ab-based immunoprophylaxis and treatment. As a means to identify potentially new anti-HIV Abs, we exploited humanized NOD-scid IL2rγnull mice systemically infected with HIV-1 to generate a wide variety of Ag-specific human mAbs. The Abs were encoded by a diverse range of variable gene families and Ig classes, including IgA, and several showed significant levels of somatic mutation. Moreover, the isolated Abs not only bound target Ags with similar affinity as broadly neutralizing Abs, they also demonstrated neutralizing ability against multiple HIV-1 clades. The use of humanized mice will allow us to use our knowledge of HIV-1 gp120 structure and function, and the immune response targeting this protein, to generate native human prophylactic Abs to reduce the infection and spread of HIV-1.
CXCL4L1 Promoter Polymorphisms Are Associated with Improved Renal Function in Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Armbrust Tabea , Millis Meredith Paige , Alvarez Maria Lucrecia , Saremi Aramesh , DiStefano Johanna Kay , Nourbakhsh Mahtab
Published: December 2018

Inflammation is a recognized mechanism underlying the pathogenesis of renal dysfunction in type 1 diabetes. Evidence suggests that genetic factors modulate the expression of inflammatory genes, which may lead to an enhanced predisposition to developing renal complications in patients with diabetes. In this study, we examined 55 genetic variants from 16 human candidate inflammatory genes for associations with renal function expressed as the estimated glomerular filtration rate in 1540 participants from the Genetics of Kidneys in Diabetes study. We observed protective associations between three variants in the CXCL4L1 promoter (rs872914/A, rs941757/G, and rs941758/A) and renal function in patients with type 1 diabetes. In reporter gene assays, all three variants increased CXCL4L1 promoter activity in HEK293 cells stimulated with IL-1 and TNF-α. We performed overexpression and knockdown experiments in primary human mesangial cells to examine the glucose-mediated regulation of endogenous CXCL4L1 gene expression and signaling pathways. The mRNA and protein levels of CXCL4L1 increased in response to high glucose (30 mM) treatment. Overexpression of CXCL4L1 increased the endogenous expression of SMAD7 and IκBα, which are key inhibitory factors in renal inflammation. Knockdown of CXCL4L1 expression also resulted in reduced levels of SMAD7 and IκBα. Our findings suggest that CXCL4L1 promoter variants may protect against the development of renal inflammation in diabetes by increasing CXCL4L1 expression, which in turn activates the anti-inflammatory SMAD7 and IκBα factors in mesangial cells.
El Canal Beagle y consulta popular en 1984. Relaciones internacionales y política interna argentina
Authors: Míguez María Cecilia
Published: December 2018

En el contexto de la reciente vuelta a la democracia en la Argentina, y a menos de un año de la asunción de Raúl Alfonsín, se realizó en 1984 una consulta popular no vinculante respecto de una propuesta de paz con Chile, referida a la cuestión del canal Beagle. Consideramos que se trata de un hecho que es necesario revisar, ya que la población fue convocada a votar respecto de un conflicto internacional, fenómeno poco frecuente. Ello conllevó intensos debates y complejos alineamientos en los partidos políticos. Parece interesante analizar cómo se entrecruzan las posiciones internacionales, el escenario de disputa entre las potencias y la dinámica política interna, tan compleja en el período. Por eso, identificaremos en este artículo las distintas posiciones de los partidos políticos, corporaciones y fuerzas políticas más representativas, para analizar en qué medida los debates respondieron a una evaluación de la circunstancia internacional y/o a la compleja dinámica política interna. Es objetivo de este trabajo abordar los condicionantes internos de la política internacional, variables muchas veces descuidadas a la hora de interpretar la política exterior de los gobiernos dictatoriales o democráticos.
Designing Digital Badges to Improve Learning in Virtual Worlds
Authors: Fanfarelli Joey R
Published: December 2018

Digital badges are digital indicators of achievement that are issued in response to a user action within a virtual environment. While badges have been successful in multiple domains, they do not always achieve their purpose. Past research indicates that this is likely a function of specific badging design and how well the badging system integrates with the system’s needs and goals. The present article examines how careful badge design can be used to facilitate pedagogy and learning in virtual worlds. It integrates educational and psychological theory to discuss several key uses and best practices of designing digital badges for virtual worlds, including assessing peer skill in multiuser worlds, fostering curiosity to drive exploration of the world, setting appropriate goals to structure learning about the world, and teaching users about the world through feedback. Both entertainment and educational applications are discussed alongside examples to better communicate how to integrate badges in virtual worlds.
Representations of Novice Conceptions with Learner-Generated Augmentation: A Framework for Curriculum Design with Augmented Reality
Authors: Lim Kenneth Y T , Chen Kelvin H.-C. , Lin Sheau-Wen , Huang Jong-Chin , Ng Kristal S-E , Ng Joel J L , Wang Yifei , Woong Nicholas
Published: December 2018

This paper describes how learner-constructed Augmented Reality was used in an intervention among science undergraduates in Taiwan, to help their course instructor have a clearer understanding of how novices in chemistry approach and seek to make sense of key concepts in this discipline.The intervention was carried out in the latter half of 2018 using a freely-available app which could be downloaded to any smartphone or tablet which supports Augmented Reality. The undergraduates were introduced to the app and used its affordances as part of their course activities in chemistry.We have termed the pedagogical approach described in this paper as Learner-Generated Augmentation. The intervention and pedagogical approach reported in this paper has potential implications on the design and adoption of subsequent applications of Augmented Reality in contexts of learning; this is because – at the very least – the approach described can be implemented at a lower cost of time, money, and manpower than earlier efforts at integrating Augmented Reality in to learning designs.Results of surveys administered to participants are shared in this paper, as are samples of learner-constructed artifacts in Augmented Reality. It is hoped that the work reported might form the basis of subsequent studies in other disciplinary domains.
Exoskeleton in the neurorehabilitation process: Neuropsychological effects in patients affected by spinal cord injury and stroke
Authors: Milia Paolo , De Salvo Federico , Peccini Maria Cristina , Sfaldaroli Alice , Cadri Silvi , Caserio Marco , Bigazzi Benedetta , Bigazzi Mario
Published: December 2018

Background and Objectives:

In neurorehabilitation, exoskeleton plays a key role among the numerous innovative and advanced frontiers in technology. The exoskeleton is intended for rehabilitation and mobility in patients with neurological motor diseases. The aim of this study is to evaluate the impact of robotic training in body perception and mood.

Methods:

Two patients, one affected by stroke and another affected by spinal cord injury admitted to our rehabilitation unit, have been studied. We used two exoskeletons (Ekso and Indego). Training occurred 3 days a week for a total of forty sessions, with a duration of 50-60 min each session. Psychological tests focused on depression (Beck Depression Inventory), self-perception (body uneasiness test A), and the workload (NASA-Task Load Index) were used.

Results:

After the treatment, we found a great improvement in mood disorders and body perception in the patients.

Conclusions:

Patients with neurological motor diseases can increase motor and psychological skills using an active powered exoskeleton.
Computerized neuropsychological rehabilitation of a frontal lobe stroke: Hierarchical attention training
Authors: De Salvo Federico , Milia Paolo , Peccini Maria Cristina , Sfaldaroli Alice , Cadri Silvi , Caserio Marco , Bigazzi Benedetta , Bigazzi Mario
Published: December 2018

The prefrontal cortex (PFC) has extensive reciprocal connections with nearly all cortical and subcortical structures, placing it in a unique position to orchestrate a wide range of cognitive and affective neural functions. Damage of PFC in humans is associated with profound changes in social and affective behavior. The development of new technologies in the field of cognitive rehabilitation is giving us the opportunity to use computer-based cognitive tools to improve the recovery of patients affected by acquired brain injury.
On the Metric Compactification of Infinite-dimensional Spaces
Authors: Gutiérrez Armando W.
Published: December 2018

The notion of metric compactification was introduced by Gromov and later rediscovered by Rieffel. It has been mainly studied on proper geodesic metric spaces. We present here a generalization of the metric compactification that can be applied to infinite-dimensional Banach spaces. Thereafter we give a complete description of the metric compactification of infinite-dimensional$\ell _{p}$spaces for all$1\leqslant p<\infty$. We also give a full characterization of the metric compactification of infinite-dimensional Hilbert spaces.
A note on doubly nonlinear SPDEs with singular drift in divergence form
Authors: Marinelli Carlo , Scarpa Luca
Published: December 2018

We prove well-posedness for a class of second-order SPDEs with multiplicative Wiener noise and doubly nonlinear drift of the form –div

\gamma(\nabla \cdot) + \beta(\cdot)

, where

\gamma

is the subdifferential of a convex function on

\mathbb R^d

and

\beta

is a maximal monotone graph everywhere defined on

\mathbb R

, on which neither growth nor continuity assumptions are imposed.
Simulación de un juicio como TFG
Authors: Font Ribas Antoni , Caballol Angelats Lluís
Published: December 2018

El objetivo del trabajo consiste en mostrar las posibilidades de aprendizaje de los estudiantes mediante una orientación claramente profesionalizadora en el grado de Derecho.

En este contexto se viene utilizando la estrategia de la simulación como eje central del aprendizaje de los estudiantes y de la intervención de los docentes. La orientación y supervisión del trabajo de los estudiantes se lleva a cabo mediante un portafolio digital. Se incentiva la reflexión de los estudiantes con la llevanza de un diario reflexivo de las sesiones que son grabadas en vídeo y descargadas inmediatamente al finalizar la sesión. Los estudiantes reciben individualmente retroalimentación inmediata. Posteriormente, se vuelve a revisar en grupo la actuación y la retroalimentación proporcionada.

El estudiante se enfrenta por primera vez a situaciones simuladas de la práctica profesional que todavía no ha incorporado a sus experiencias personales, como pueden ser, la entrevista a un cliente, la práctica de un interrogatorio, o la representación de sus intereses ante un órgano judicial. Esta última se realiza en la Escuela Judicial ante un juez en prácticas.
El grado de satisfacción por el aprendizaje obtenido alcanza proporciones muy elevadas. Al mismo tiempo, se ha observado que el aprendizaje en un contexto de réplica profesional proporciona al estudiante la oportunidad de dotar de significado a los conceptos aprehendidos de forma eminentemente teórica y memorística, propiciando de este modo un aprendizaje más profundo, a la par que se incentiva la adquisición y el ejercicio de habilidades que permiten facilitar el tránsito a la actividad profesional.
El Trabajo de Fin de Grado: fines, modalidades y estilos de tutorización
Authors: Díaz-Vázquez R. , García-Díaz A. , Maside Sanfiz J.M. , Vázquez-Rozas E.
Published: December 2018

El objetivo de este artículo es avanzar en el desarrollo de un marco para el análisis de la asignatura Trabajo de Fin de Grado (TFG) que pueda adaptarse a un número amplio de áreas de conocimiento. Se atiende a cuatro elementos clave: los fines perseguidos, los instrumentos disponibles, las modalidades de TFG y los estilos de tutorización. El carácter diferenciado de esta asignatura reside, básicamente, en el proceso seguido para alcanzar los fines: utilizando los instrumentos disponibles (formación previa, materiales específicos y apoyo tutorial) el estudiante debe “producir” un trabajo académicamente riguroso con un grado de autonomía notable. Centramos, por ello, la atención en dos factores que condicionan dicho proceso: las modalidades de TFG y los estilos de tutorización. Ponemos de manifiesto la necesidad de ampliar el abanico de modalidades en todos los elementos que conforman el procedimiento del TFG y presentamos una posible clasificación. A continuación, dado que parece resultar crucial para el alumno, ponemos el foco de atención en el papel del tutor y proponemos una clasificación de los estilos de tutorización. Atendiendo a la intervención del tutor en las distintas fases de elaboración de los TFG, distinguimos tres estilos de tutorización: conductora, orientadora y supervisora. Aunque la elección del estilo de tutorización más adecuado depende de múltiples factores, concluimos que, en general, la tutorización orientadora y la supervisora son más apropiadas para el TFG.
Metodología para la valoración de resultados en Trabajos Finales de Grado (TFG) de áreas tecnológicas
Authors: Arias Odon Fidias Gerardo
Published: December 2018

Este artículo parte de la problemática surgida cuando se pretende transferir la metodología y criterios de evaluación de los Trabajos Finales de Grado que se realizan en ciencias sociales a los que se presentan en áreas tecnológicas, sin considerar la diferencia entre la investigación científica y la investigación tecnológica. En consecuencia, la naturaleza desigual de las actividades de ciencia y tecnología, implica métodos y resultados distintos, que requieren criterios particulares y diferentes para evaluar lo tecnológico, cuyos productos finales se caracterizan por ser materiales o tangibles (hardware) e intangibles (software). Concretamente, el presente estudio se propuso construir una metodología para la valoración de resultados en los Trabajos Finales de Grado, específicamente de áreas tecnológicas: tecnologías industriales (fabricación), tecnologías de la información y la comunicación y tecnología de la salud. En cuanto al método empleado, se realizó una investigación documental que consistió en un análisis exhaustivo de fuentes impresas y electrónicas, haciendo énfasis en la literatura especializada sobre el tema de la investigación tecnológica y la evaluación de resultados. Como conclusión del estudio se presenta la metodología propuesta la cual incluye la caracterización de dichos trabajos, la definición de indicadores y el diseño de las rúbricas para cada área.
El trabajo de fin de grado: resultados desde una perspectiva de pares estudiantes/tutores
Authors: Expósito Díaz Pilar , Freire Esparís María Pilar , Martínez Roget Fidel , Del Río Araújo María Luisa
Published: December 2018

La investigación sobre el Trabajo de Fin de Grado (TFG) ha ido incorporando aspectos de la interacción tutor-a/alumno-a que se han demostrado cruciales en la explicación de los resultados de estos últimos. Merece particular atención el apoyo tutorial recibido durante la realización del trabajo -en naturaleza e intensidad- y su relación con los resultados obtenidos. El estudio de esta relación es el objetivo de este artículo que, a través del análisis de la información aportada por 178 pares alumno-a/tutor-a, indaga en las relaciones entre el apoyo tutorial (declarado por el profesorado) y las competencias alcanzadas por el alumnado (percibidas por el propio estudiantado), y entre éstas y la nota real alcanzada en la materia. Los resultados indican que el apoyo tutorial en cada una de las fases del trabajo se relaciona significativamente con varias competencias que el alumnado percibe haber alcanzado. Concretamente, la capacidad crítica se ve mejorada con la intensidad del apoyo tutorial en varias fases del trabajo. La organización del tiempo y la identificación de limitaciones se perciben incrementadas con el apoyo en las primeras fases -diseño de la investigación y definición de objetivos- mientras que el uso de conocimientos previos y la capacidad de comunicación oral y escrita son competencias que mejoran con la intensidad del apoyo en sus fases finales -elaboración de conclusiones y redacción-. Todas las capacidades determinan la calificación alcanzada por los estudiantes.

 

 
La tutoría académica focalizada en la evaluación: análisis de necesidades desde la perspectiva de estudiantes y profesores.
Authors: Arraiz Pérez Ana , Berbegal Vázquez Alfredo , Sabirón Sierra Fernando
Published: December 2018

La investigación que se presenta se realiza dentro de una línea de innovación en orientación universitaria para el desarrollo de la tutoría académica. El estudio versa sobre un análisis de necesidades que permita establecer un plan piloto para el desarrollo, cambio y mejora de las prácticas tutoriales en las Universidades del Campus Iberus; bajo la demanda, en las nuevas titulaciones, de una tutoría vinculada al proyecto personal y profesional del estudiante.

El análisis de necesidades se realiza aplicando un diseño de encuestación de carácter exploratorio, a través de un cuestionario ad hoc, a una muestra de 423 estudiantes y 202 profesores de la Universidad de Zaragoza. El cuestionario y los resultados se validan a través de cinco grupos de discusión realizados en las Universidades del País Vasco y La Rioja.

Los principales resultados versan sobre tres cuestiones de investigación: 1) La evaluación en las prácticas tutoriales: se confirma el alto potencial de la evaluación como elemento mediador para el desarrollo, cambio y mejora de las prácticas tutoriales. 2) Las necesidades emergentes de las vivencias académicas de estudiantes y profesores: el cambio se sigue proponiendo desde la díada profesor-asignatura. 3) Caracterización de la tutoría ideal: estudiantes y profesores dudan, ante la ausencia de referentes experienciales en prácticas tutoriales innovadoras. Las principales conclusiones son: a) se refuerza el papel protagonista del profesor para propiciar el cambio; y b) estudiantes y profesores comparten expectativas sobre el cambio de una tutoría académica orientada hacia el proyecto personal-profesional.