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International audience; A recently discovered material, carbon nanotubes covered with diamond (DCNTs) was tested for its suitability in bioelectronics applications. Diamond shows advantages for bioelectronics applications (wide electro chemical window and bioinertness). This study investigates the effect of electrode surface shape (flat or three dimensional) on cell growth and behavior. For comparison, flat nanocrystalline diamond substrates were used. Primary embryonic neurons were grown on top of the structures and neither incorporated the structures nor did they grow in between the single structures. The interface was closely examined using focused ion beam (FIB) and scanning electron microscopy. Of special interest was the interface between cell and substrate. 5% to 25% of the cell membrane adhered to the substrate, which fits the theoretical estimated value. While investigating the conformity of the neurons, it could be observed that the cell membrane attaches to different heights of the tips of the 3D structure. However, the aspect ratio of the structures had no effect on the cell viability. These results let us assume that not more than 25% of cell attachment is needed for the survival of a functional neuronal cell.

It is here presented the mechatronic design of an system with automatic storing and picking of small products. The design concept presents the system as a four degrees-of-freedom robot capable of storing objects at different heights. The novelty of the design lies in the space optimization using stacked trays for storing the desired objetcs. Other key components of the system are a device for entry and exit of products, and a robotic arm for manipulating objects. A typical application of such a system is the storage of products inside safe-deposit boxes is presented. © 2014 IEEE. Universidad Tecnologica de Bolivar

In this paper we introduce a new kinematic sensor to evaluate the ability to rise from a chair by means of the sit-to-stand locomotion task. It is based on the analysis of the acceleration assessed by a homemade accelerometric transducer. Preliminary results show the feasibility of discriminating the rising from a chair fixed to different heights and the capability of distinguishing between pathological and non pathological parkinsonian subjects.