Electro-deposition of cerium thin film compound, elaboration and characterisation

Cerium oxide films are widely studied as a promising alternative to the toxic hexavalent Chromium Cr [VI] based pre-treatments for the corrosion protection of different metals and alloys. Cathodic electro-deposition of Cerium compound thin films was realized on Ti alloy [TA6V] substrates from a Ce [NO3]3, 6H2O in water-ethyl alcohol solutions at 0.01 M. Experimental conditions to obtain homogeneous and crack free thin films were determined. The deposited cerium quantity, as expected, is proportional to the used electric charge, following the Faraday law. Subsequent thermal treatment led to a CeO2 coating, which is expected to increase the TA6V oxidation resistance at high temperatures. The deposits were characterized by Differential Scanning Calorimetry [DSC], optical and scanning electron microscopies

[Neuroretinitis associated with cat-scratch disease: case report]

Purpose: cat-scratch disease is a bacterial infection transmitted from the scratch bite of a cat with Bartonella henselae. Ophtalmologic manifestations usually consist in manifest neuroretinitis defined by abrupt, unilateral, painless visual loss associated with stellate macular exudates and optic disc edema

Observation: We present a 14-Year old girl who manifested symptoms of decreased vision at the left eye associated to mild fever, diffuse myalgia and headache. Visual acuities were 9/10 at the right eye and 1/ 10 at the left one. Anterior segment evaluation was unremarkable. Fundus examination showed signs of neuroretinitis confirmed by fluorescein angiography. Visual field and color testing were contributive. History investigation found recent cat bites. Blood cultures Were obtained and Bartonella-henselae antibody titers were measured. Tuberculosis, toxoplasmosis, syphilis, rickettsiosis were excluded. Patient received oral doxycycline 100 mg and rifampicin 300 mg twice daily for 4 weeks. Evolution was marked by a promote resolution of neuroretinitis with a mildly decreased visual acuity

Discussion and Conclusion: Mutiple infectious disease should be evocated in case of neuroretinitis. Cat-scratch disease should be investigated