FPGA-based architecture for real-time data reduction of ultrasound signals.

This paper describes a novel method for on-line real-time data reduction of radiofrequency (RF) ultrasound signals. The approach is based on a field programmable gate array (FPGA) system intended mainly for steel thickness measurements. Ultrasound data reduction is desirable when: (1) direct measurements performed by an operator are not accessible; (2) it is required to store a considerable amount of data; (3) the application requires measuring at very high speeds; and (4) the physical space for the embedded hardware is limited. All the aforementioned scenarios can be present in applications such as pipeline inspection where data reduction is traditionally performed on-line using pipeline inspection gauges (PIG). The method proposed in this work consists of identifying and storing in real-time only the time of occurrence (TOO) and the maximum amplitude of each echo present in a given RF ultrasound signal. The method is tested with a dedicated immersion system where a significant data reduction with an average of 96.5% is achieved.

Comparative electrochemical behaviour of biotin hydrazide and photobiotin. Importance in the development of biosensors.

The cyclic voltammetric behaviour of biotin hydrazide and photobiotin on carbon paste electrodes has been studied. Biotin hydrazide presents an anodic and irreversible process, meanwhile photobiotin presents two, adsorptive in nature. This characteristic makes photobiotin desirable for following the interaction between biotin and streptavidin, being possible to detect a streptavidin concentration of 10(-12) M. The evidence of this reaction has been shown either directly in solution or on the electrode surface. Photobiotin as the molecule portable of analytical information and carbon paste as the solid support could be applied to the development of sensors based on the oxidation of this molecule.