Concentric micro-nebulizer for direct sample insertion

DOEpatents

Fassel, V.A.; Rice, G.W.; Lawrence, K.E.

1984-03-06

A concentric micro-nebulizer and method for introducing liquid samples into a plasma established in a plasma torch including a first tube connected to a source of plasma gas. The concentric micro-nebulizer has inner and outer concentric tubes extending upwardly within the torch for connection to a source of nebulizer gas and to a source of liquid solvent and to a source of sample liquid. The inner tube is connected to the source of liquid solvent and to the source of sample liquid and the outer tube is connected to the source of nebulizer gas. The outer tube has an orifice positioned slightly below the plasma when it is established, with the inner and outer tubes forming an annulus therebetween with the annular spacing between the tubes at said orifice being less than about 0.05mm. The dead volume of the inner tube is less than about 5 microliters.

Concentric micro-nebulizer for direct sample insertion

DOEpatents

Fassel, Velmer A.; Rice, Gary W.; Lawrence, Kimberly E.

1986-03-11

A concentric micro-nebulizer and method for introducing liquid samples into a plasma established in a plasma torch including a first tube connected to a source of plasma gas. The concentric micro-nebulizer has inner and outer concentric tubes extending upwardly within the torch for connection to a source of nebulizer gas and to a source of liquid solvent and to a source of sample liquid. The inner tube is connected to the source of liquid solvent and to the source of sample liquid and the outer tube is connected to the source of nebulizer gas. The outer tube has an orifice positioned slightly below the plasma when it is established, with the inner and outer tubes forming an annulus therebetween with the annular spacing between the tubes at said orifice being less than about 0.05 mm. The dead volume of the inner tube is less than about 5 microliters.

SPECT-CT Comparison of Lung Deposition using a System combining a Vibrating-mesh Nebulizer with a Valved Holding Chamber and a Conventional Jet Nebulizer: a Randomized Cross-over Study.

PubMed

Dugernier, Jonathan; Hesse, Michel; Vanbever, Rita; Depoortere, Virginie; Roeseler, Jean; Michotte, Jean-Bernard; Laterre, Pierre-François; Jamar, François; Reychler, Gregory

2017-02-01

To compare in vivo the total and regional pulmonary deposition of aerosol particles generated by a new system combining a vibrating-mesh nebulizer with a specific valved holding chamber and constant-output jet nebulizer connected to a corrugated tube. Cross-over study comparing aerosol delivery to the lungs using two nebulizers in 6 healthy male subjects: a vibrating-mesh nebulizer combined with a valved holding chamber (Aerogen Ultra®, Aerogen Ltd., Galway, Ireland) and a jet nebulizer connected to a corrugated tube (Opti-Mist Plus Nebulizer®, ConvaTec, Bridgewater, NJ). Nebulizers were filled with diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid labelled with technetium-99 m ( 99m Tc-DTPA, 2 mCi/4 mL). Pulmonary deposition of 99m Tc-DTPA was measured by single-photon emission computed tomography combined with a low dose CT-scan (SPECT-CT). Pulmonary aerosol deposition from SPECT-CT analysis was six times increased with the vibrating-mesh nebulizer as compared to the jet nebulizer (34.1 ± 6.0% versus 5.2 ± 1.1%, p < 0.001). However, aerosol penetration expressed as the three-dimensional normalized ratio of the outer and the inner regions of the lungs was similar between both nebulizers. This study demonstrated the high superiority of the new system combining a vibrating-mesh nebulizer with a valved holding chamber to deliver nebulized particles into the lungs as comparted to a constant-output jet nebulizer with a corrugated tube.

Nebulization performance of biodegradable sildenafil-loaded nanoparticles using the Aeroneb Pro: formulation aspects and nanoparticle stability to nebulization.

PubMed

Beck-Broichsitter, Moritz; Kleimann, Pia; Gessler, Tobias; Seeger, Werner; Kissel, Thomas; Schmehl, Thomas

2012-01-17

Polymeric nanoparticles meet the increasing interest for drug delivery applications and hold great promise to improve controlled drug delivery to the lung. Here, we present a series of investigations that were carried out to understand the impact of formulation variables on the nebulization performance of novel biodegradable sildenafil-loaded nanoparticles designed for targeted aerosol therapy of life-threatening pulmonary arterial hypertension. Narrowly distributed poly(D,L-lactide-co-glycolide) nanoparticles (size: ∼200 nm) were prepared by a solvent evaporation technique using poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) as stabilizer. The aerodynamic and output characteristics using the Aeroneb Pro nebulizer correlated well with the dynamic viscosity of the employed fluids for nebulization. The nebulization performance was mainly affected by the amount of employed stabilizer, rather than by the applied nanoparticle concentration. Nanoparticles revealed physical stability against forces generated during aerosolization, what is attributed to the adsorbed PVA layer around the nanoparticles. Sildenafil was successfully encapsulated into nanoparticles (encapsulation efficiency: ∼80%). Size, size distribution and sildenafil content of nanoparticles were not affected by nebulization and the in vitro drug release profile demonstrated a sustained sildenafil release over ∼120 min. The current study suggests that the prepared sildenafil-loaded nanoparticles are a promising pharmaceutical for the therapy of pulmonary arterial hypertension. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Identification and validation of nebulized aerosol devices for sputum induction

PubMed Central

Davidson, Warren J; Dennis, John; The, Stephanie; Litoski, Belinda; Pieron, Cora; Leigh, Richard

2014-01-01

Induced sputum cell count measurement has proven reliability for evaluating airway inflammation in patients with asthma and other airway diseases. Although the use of nebulizer devices for sputum induction is commonplace, they are generally labelled as single-patient devices by the manufacturer and, therefore, cannot be used for multiple patients in large clinical sputum induction programs due to infect ion-control requirements. Accordingly, this study investigated the aerosol characteristics of alternative devices that could be used in such programs. BACKGROUND: Induced sputum cell counts are a noninvasive and reliable method for evaluating the presence, type and degree of airway inflammation in patients with asthma. Currently, standard nebulizer devices used for sputum induction in multiple patients are labelled as single-patient devices by the manufacturer, which conflicts with infection prevention and control requirements. As such, these devices cannot feasibly be used in a clinical sputum induction program. Therefore, there is a need to identify alternative nebulizer devices that are either disposable or labelled for multi-patient use. OBJECTIVE: To apply validated rigorous, scientific testing methods to identify and validate commercially available nebulizer devices appropriate for use in a clinical sputum induction program. METHODS: Measurement of nebulized aerosol output and size for the selected nebulizer designs followed robust International Organization for Standardization methods. Sputum induction using two of these nebulizers was successfully performed on 10 healthy adult subjects. The cytotechnologist performing sputum cell counts was blinded to the type of nebulizer used. RESULTS: The studied nebulizers had variable aerosol outputs. The AeroNeb Solo (Aerogen, Ireland), Omron NE-U17 (Omron, Japan) and EASYneb II (Flaem Nuova, Italy) systems were found to have similar measurements of aerosol size. There was no significant difference in induced sputum

Pulmonary Drug Delivery Following Continuous Vibrating Mesh Nebulization and Inspiratory Synchronized Vibrating Mesh Nebulization During Noninvasive Ventilation in Healthy Volunteers.

PubMed

Michotte, Jean-Bernard; Staderini, Enrico; Aubriot, Anne-Sophie; Jossen, Emilie; Dugernier, Jonathan; Liistro, Giuseppe; Reychler, Gregory

2018-02-01

A breath-synchronized nebulization option that could potentially improve drug delivery during noninvasive positive pressure ventilation (NIPPV) is currently not available on single-limb circuit bilevel ventilators. The aim of this study was to compare urinary excretion of amikacin following aerosol delivery with a vibrating mesh nebulizer coupled to a single-limb circuit bilevel ventilator, using conventional continuous (Conti-Neb) and experimental inspiratory synchronized (Inspi-Neb) nebulization modes. A crossover clinical trial involving 6 noninvasive ventilated healthy volunteers (mean age of 32.3 ± 9.5 y) randomly assigned to both vibrating mesh nebulization modes was conducted: Inspi-Neb delivered aerosol during only the whole inspiratory phase, whereas Conti-Neb delivered aerosol continuously. All subjects inhaled amikacin solution (500 mg/4 mL) during NIPPV using a single-limb bilevel ventilator (inspiratory positive airway pressure: 12 cm H 2 O, and expiratory positive airway pressure: 5 cm H 2 O). Pulmonary drug delivery of amikacin following both nebulization modes was compared by urinary excretion of drug for 24 hours post-inhalation. The total daily amount of amikacin excreted in the urine was significantly higher with Inspi-Neb (median: 44.72 mg; interquartile range [IQR]: 40.50-65.13) than with Conti-Neb (median: 40.07 mg; IQR: 31.00-43.73), (p = 0.02). The elimination rate constant of amikacin (indirect measure of the depth of drug penetration into the lungs) was significantly higher with Inspi-Neb (median: 0.137; IQR: 0.113-0.146) than with Conti-Neb (median: 0.116; IQR: 0.105-0.130), (p = 0.02). However, the mean pulmonary drug delivery rate, expressed as the ratio between total daily urinary amount of amikacin and nebulization time, was significantly higher with Conti-Neb (2.03 mg/min) than with Inspi-Neb (1.09 mg/min) (p < 0.01). During NIPPV with a single-limb circuit bilevel ventilator, the use of inspiratory

Pharmacokinetics of nebulized terbinafine in Hispaniolan Amazon parrots (Amazona ventralis).

PubMed

Emery, Lee C; Cox, Sherry K; Souza, Marcy J

2012-09-01

Aspergillosis is one of the most difficult diseases to treat successfully in avian species. Terbinafine hydrochloride offers numerous potential benefits over traditionally used antifungals for treatment of this disease. Adding nebulized antifungals to treatment strategies is thought to improve clinical outcomes in lung diseases. To determine plasma concentrations of terbinafine after nebulization, 6 adult Hispaniolan Amazon parrots were randomly divided into 2 groups of 3. Each bird was nebulized for 15 minutes with 1 of 2 terbinafine solutions, one made with a crushed tablet and the second with raw drug powder. Blood samples were collected at baseline and at multiple time points up to 720 minutes after completing nebulization. Plasma and nebulization solutions were analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography. The terbinafine concentration of the solution made with a crushed tablet (0.87 +/- 0.05 mg/mL) was significantly lower than was that made with raw powder (1.02 +/- 0.09 mg/mL). Plasma concentrations of terbinafine did not differ significantly between birds in the 2 groups. Plasma terbinafine concentrations in birds were maintained above in vitro minimum inhibitory concentrations for approximately 1 hour in birds nebulized with the crushed tablet solution and 4 hours in birds nebulized with the raw powder solution. Higher concentrations of solution, longer nebulization periods, or more frequent administration are likely needed to reach therapeutic plasma concentrations of terbinafine for clinically relevant periods in Hispaniolan Amazon parrots.

Inhalers and nebulizers: basic principles and preliminary measurements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Misik, Ondrej; Lizal, Frantisek; Asl, Vahid Farhikhteh; Belka, Miloslav; Jedelsky, Jan; Elcner, Jakub; Jicha, Miroslav

2018-06-01

Inhalers are hand-held devices which are used for administration of therapeutic aerosols via inhalation. Nebulizers are larger devices serving for home and hospital care using inhaled medication. This contribution describes the basic principles of dispersion of aerosol particles used in various types of inhalers and nebulizers, and lists the basic physical mechanisms contributing to the deposition of inhaled particles in the human airways. The second part of this article presents experimental setup, methodology and preliminary results of particle size distributions produced by several selected inhalers and nebulizers.

Nebulized antibiotics in mechanically ventilated patients: roadmap and challenges.

PubMed

Poulakou, G; Siakallis, G; Tsiodras, S; Arfaras-Melainis, A; Dimopoulos, G

2017-03-01

Nebulized antibiotics use has become common practice in the therapeutics of pneumonia in cystic fibrosis patients. There is an increasing interest in their use for respiratory infections in mechanically ventilated (MV) patients in order to a) overcome pharmacokinetic issues in the lung compartment with traditional systemic antibiotic use and b) prevent the emergence of multi-drug-resistant (MDR) pathogens. Areas covered: The beneficial effects of antibiotic nebulization in MV patients e.g. increasing efficacy, reduced toxicity and prevention of resistance are described. Physicochemical parameters of optimal lung deposition, characteristics of currently available nebulizers, practical aspects of the procedure, including drug preparation and adjustments of ventilator and circuit parameter are presented. Antibiotics used in nebulized route, along with efficacy in various clinical indications and safety issues are reviewed. Expert commentary: The safety of nebulization of antibiotics has been proven in numerous studies; efficacy as adjunctive treatment to intravenous regimens or as monotherapy has been demonstrated in ventilator-associated pneumonia or ventilator-associated tracheobronchitis due to MDR or susceptible pathogens. However, due to the heterogeneity of studies, multiple meta-analyses fail to demonstrate a clear effect. Clarification of indications, standardization of technique and implementation of clinical practice guidelines, based on new large-scale trials will lead to the optimal use of nebulized antibiotics.

Residual gravimetric method to measure nebulizer output.

PubMed

Vecellio None, Laurent; Grimbert, Daniel; Bordenave, Joelle; Benoit, Guy; Furet, Yves; Fauroux, Brigitte; Boissinot, Eric; De Monte, Michele; Lemarié, Etienne; Diot, Patrice

2004-01-01

The aim of this study was to assess a residual gravimetric method based on weighing dry filters to measure the aerosol output of nebulizers. This residual gravimetric method was compared to assay methods based on spectrophotometric measurement of terbutaline (Bricanyl, Astra Zeneca, France), high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) measurement of tobramycin (Tobi, Chiron, U.S.A.), and electrochemical measurements of NaF (as defined by the European standard). Two breath-enhanced jet nebulizers, one standard jet nebulizer, and one ultrasonic nebulizer were tested. Output produced by the residual gravimetric method was calculated by weighing the filters both before and after aerosol collection and by filter drying corrected by the proportion of drug contained in total solute mass. Output produced by the electrochemical, spectrophotometric, and HPLC methods was determined after assaying the drug extraction filter. The results demonstrated a strong correlation between the residual gravimetric method (x axis) and assay methods (y axis) in terms of drug mass output (y = 1.00 x -0.02, r(2) = 0.99, n = 27). We conclude that a residual gravimetric method based on dry filters, when validated for a particular agent, is an accurate way of measuring aerosol output.

Ozone disinfection of home nebulizers effectively kills common cystic fibrosis bacterial pathogens.

PubMed

Towle, Dana; Baker, Vanisha; Schramm, Craig; O'Brien, Matthew; Collins, Melanie S; Feinn, Richard; Murray, Thomas S

2018-05-01

The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation (CFF) recommends routine nebulizer disinfection for patients but compliance is challenging due to the heavy burden of home care. SoClean® is a user friendly ozone based home disinfection device currently for home respiratory equipment. The objective of this study was to determine whether SoClean® has potential as a disinfection device for families with CF by killing CF associated bacteria without altering nebulizer output. Ozone based disinfection effectively kills bacterial pathogens inoculated to home nebulizer equipment without gross changes in nebulizer function. Common bacterial pathogens associated with CF were inoculated onto the PariLC® jet nebulizer and bacterial recovery compared with or without varied ozone exposure. In separate experiments, nebulizer output was estimated after repeated ozone exposure by weighing the nebulizer. Ozone disinfection was time dependent with a 5 min infusion time and 120 min dwell time effectively killing >99.99% bacteria tested including Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus. Over 250 h of repeat ozone exposure did not alter nebulizer output. This suggests SoClean® has potential as a user-friendly disinfection technique for home respiratory equipment. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Running a nurse-led nebulizer clinic in a district general hospital.

PubMed

Porter-Jones, G; Francis, S; Benfield, G

The widespread home use of nebulizers for delivering bronchodilating medication in patients with a variety of respiratory conditions is well documented, as is the lack of appropriate assessment before this form of treatment is prescribed (Cochrane et al, 1985). When it is considered that the use of nebulizers at home is increasing (Drug Information Bulletin, 1994), it is essential that appropriate assessment is undertaken in line with British Thoracic Society recommendations in order to ensure that the degree of benefit is sufficient to justify the inconvenience, potential dangers and high cost of nebulizer therapy in the home. This article examines a nurse-led nebulizer assessment clinic that was set up as part of a service for providing home nebulization for long-term use in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or chronic severe asthma.

[Problems in the use, cleaning and maintenance of nebulization equipment in the home situation].

PubMed

Struycken, V H; Tiddens, H A; van den Broek, E T; Dzoljic-Danilovic, G; van der Velden, A J; de Jongste, J C

1996-03-23

To determine whether jet nebulizers used at home for the treatment of children with asthma are used optimally. Descriptive. Outpatient clinic for child pulmonary diseases of the Academic Hospital/Sophia Children's Hospital Rotterdam and outpatient clinic for child diseases of the Baronie Hospital Breda, the Netherlands. Thirty-nine children aged 0-13 years and their parents were interviewed at home, and medication cup, saline and aerosol were cultured for bacterial analysis. The pressures of the compressor and nebulizer were measured with a manometer, and the particle size of the aerosol of 10 jet nebulizers was measured by laser technique. The suppliers of the nebulizer did not provide clear instructions on user-related aspects and technical maintenance of the jet nebulizer. Many patients used damaged and poorly functioning, contaminated jet nebulizers. Contamination by potentially pathogenic micro-organisms was present in 50% of the saline, medication cups and aerosols (Klebsiella, Enterobacter, Pseudomonas, Serratia, Escherichia coli). The operating pressure of compressor and nebulizer was below the requirements in more than 50% of the jet nebulizers. In addition, we found that the aerodynamic mass median diameter increased considerably as the nebulizer became older. In 6/10 nebulizers the particle size was below 5 microns. A periodical checkup of user-related aspects and technical quality of jet nebulizers is necessary. The quality of the instruction to users about the procedure for cleaning and maintenance of the jet nebulizer should be improved.

Inhalation Properties and Stability of Nebulized Naked siRNA Solution for Pulmonary Therapy.

PubMed

Tahara, Kohei; Hashimoto, Wakana; Takeuchi, Hirofumi

2016-01-01

The use of naked unmodified small interfering RNA (N-siRNA) without vector has previously been investigated as a pulmonary therapy. However, little is known regarding stabilities and aerodynamic particle sizes of N-siRNA-containing droplets; nebulizers have not yet been optimized for N-siRNA solutions. Thus, in this study, we investigated the feasibility of inhaled N-siRNA solutions for pulmonary therapy using nebulization. Various nebulizers and N-siRNA concentrations were assessed in terms of siRNA integrity after nebulization, and inhalation properties including aerodynamic particle size were examined. In comparison with ultrasonic-, air-jet-, and vibrating-mesh nebulizers, N-siRNA integrity was not affected by nebulization. Thus, in further experiments, performances of N-siRNA aerosols with different nebulizers and N-siRNA concentrations were evaluated and screened using an aerodynamic particle sizer (APS) which employed the time-of-flight principle or a cascade impactor. Mean mass aerodynamic diameters of N-siRNA-containing droplets from vibrating-mesh nebulizers tended to decrease with increasing N-siRNA concentrations, reflecting the influence of N-siRNA solutions on surface tension, as indicated by contact angles. These data indicate the utility of APS instruments for investigating the nebulized characteristics of expensive drugs including siRNAs and may facilitate the development of N-siRNA inhalation formulations.

Baby bottle steam sterilizers for disinfecting home nebulizers inoculated with non-tuberculous mycobacteria.

PubMed

Towle, D; Callan, D A; Lamprea, C; Murray, T S

2016-03-01

Non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTMb), present in environmental water sources, can contribute to respiratory infection in patients with chronic pulmonary disease. Contaminated nebulizers are a potential source of respiratory infection. Treatment with baby bottle steam sterilizers disinfects home nebulizers inoculated with bacterial pathogens but whether this method works for disinfection of NTMb is unclear. Baby bottle steam sterilization was compared with vigorous water washing for disinfecting home nebulizers inoculated with NTMb mixed with cystic fibrosis sputum. No NTMb was recovered from any nebulizers after steam treatment whereas viable NTMb grew after water washing, demonstrating that steam sterilization effectively disinfects NTMb-inoculated nebulizers. Copyright © 2015 The Healthcare Infection Society. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Baby bottle steam sterilizers disinfect home nebulizers inoculated with bacterial respiratory pathogens.

PubMed

Towle, Dana; Callan, Deborah A; Farrel, Patricia A; Egan, Marie E; Murray, Thomas S

2013-09-01

Contaminated nebulizers are a potential source of bacterial infection but no single method is universally accepted for disinfection. We hypothesized that baby-bottle steam sterilizers effectively disinfect home nebulizers. Home nebulizers were inoculated with the common CF respiratory pathogens methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus, Burkholderia cepacia, Haemophilus influenzae, mucoid and non mucoid Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Stenotrophomonas maltophilia. The nebulizers were swabbed for bacterial growth, treated with either the AVENT (Philips), the NUK Quick & Ready (Gerber) or DRY-POD (Camera Baby) baby bottle steam sterilizer and reswabbed for bacterial growth. All steam sterilizers were effective at disinfecting all home nebulizers. Viable bacteria were not recovered from any inoculated site after steam treatment, under any conditions tested. Steam treatment is an effective disinfection method. Additional studies are needed to confirm whether these results are applicable to the clinical setting. Copyright © 2012 European Cystic Fibrosis Society. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Key considerations on nebulization of antimicrobial agents to mechanically ventilated patients.

PubMed

Rello, J; Rouby, J J; Sole-Lleonart, C; Chastre, J; Blot, S; Luyt, C E; Riera, J; Vos, M C; Monsel, A; Dhanani, J; Roberts, J A

2017-09-01

Nebulized antibiotics have an established role in patients with cystic fibrosis or bronchiectasis. Their potential benefit to treat respiratory infections in mechanically ventilated patients is receiving increasing interest. In this consensus statement of the European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, the body of evidence of the therapeutic utility of aerosolized antibiotics in mechanically ventilated patients was reviewed and resulted in the following recommendations: Vibrating-mesh nebulizers should be preferred to jet or ultrasonic nebulizers. To decrease turbulence and limit circuit and tracheobronchial deposition, we recommend: (a) the use of specifically designed respiratory circuits avoiding sharp angles and characterized by smooth inner surfaces, (b) the use of specific ventilator settings during nebulization including use of a volume controlled mode using constant inspiratory flow, tidal volume 8 mL/kg, respiratory frequency 12 to 15 bpm, inspiratory:expiratory ratio 50%, inspiratory pause 20% and positive end-expiratory pressure 5 to 10 cm H 2 O and (c) the administration of a short-acting sedative agent if coordination between the patient and the ventilator is not obtained, to avoid patient's flow triggering and episodes of peak decelerating inspiratory flow. A filter should be inserted on the expiratory limb to protect the ventilator flow device and changed between each nebulization to avoid expiratory flow obstruction. A heat and moisture exchanger and/or conventional heated humidifier should be stopped during the nebulization period to avoid a massive loss of aerosolized particles through trapping and condensation. If these technical requirements are not followed, there is a high risk of treatment failure and adverse events in mechanically ventilated patients receiving nebulized antibiotics for pneumonia. Copyright © 2017 European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights

Toward modern inhalational bacteriophage therapy: nebulization of bacteriophages of Burkholderia cepacia complex.

PubMed

Golshahi, Laleh; Seed, Kimberley D; Dennis, Jonathan J; Finlay, Warren H

2008-12-01

Antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections have renewed interest in finding substitute methods of treatment. The purpose of the present in vitro study was to investigate the possibility of respiratory delivery of a Burkholderia cepacia complex (BCC) bacteriophage by nebulized aerosol administration. Bacteriophages in isotonic saline were aerosolized with Pari LC star and eFlow nebulizers, at titers with mean value (standard deviation) of 2.15 x 10(8) (1.63 x 10(8)) plaque-forming unit (PFU)/mL in 2.5-mL nebulizer fills. The breathing pattern of an adult was simulated using a pulmonary waveform generator. During breath simulation, the size distributions of the nebulized aerosol were measured using phase doppler anemometry (PDA). Efficiency of nebulizer delivery was subsequently determined by collection of aerosol on low resistance filters and measurement of bacteriophage titers. These filter titers were used as input data to a mathematical lung deposition model to predict regional deposition of bacteriophages in the lung and initial bacteriophage titers in the liquid surface layer of each conducting airway generation. The results suggest that BCC bacteriophages can be nebulized successfully within a reasonable delivery time and predicted titers in the lung indicate that this method may hold potential for treatment of bacterial lung infections common among cystic fibrosis patients.

Pharmacokinetics of nebulized and subcutaneously implanted terbinafine in cottonmouths (Agkistrodon piscivorus).

PubMed

Kane, L P; Allender, M C; Archer, G; Leister, K; Rzadkowska, M; Boers, K; Souza, M; Cox, S

2017-10-01

Ophidiomyces ophiodiicola, the causative agent of snake fungal disease, is proposed as a serious threat to the conservation of several snake populations. The objective of this study was to determine the pharmacokinetic parameters of terbinafine administered through nebulization and a sustained subcutaneous implant as potential treatments of Ophidiomyces in reptiles. Seven adult cottonmouths (Agkistrodon piscivorus) were used in single-dose trials. Each snake was nebulized with terbinafine (2 mg/ml) for 30 min and had blood collected before nebulization and up to 12 hr after nebulization. Following a 5-month washout, the same snakes were administered a subcutaneous implant containing 24.5 mg terbinafine; blood was collected at baseline, 1 day postimplant placement, and then once weekly for 9 weeks. Plasma for both studies was analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography. The mean plasma concentrations of nebulized terbinafine peaked between 0.5 and 4 hr. The subcutaneously implanted terbinafine reached therapeutic concentrations on day 1 and maintained therapeutic for over 6 weeks. These methods and doses are recommended as potential treatment options for snake fungal disease in reptiles. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

A comparison of sputum induction methods: ultrasonic vs compressed-air nebulizer and hypertonic vs isotonic saline inhalation.

PubMed

Loh, L C; Eg, K P; Puspanathan, P; Tang, S P; Yip, K S; Vijayasingham, P; Thayaparan, T; Kumar, S

2004-03-01

Airway inflammation can be demonstrated by the modem method of sputum induction using ultrasonic nebulizer and hypertonic saline. We studied whether compressed-air nebulizer and isotonic saline which are commonly available and cost less, are as effective in inducing sputum in normal adult subjects as the above mentioned tools. Sixteen subjects underwent weekly sputum induction in the following manner: ultrasonic nebulizer (Medix Sonix 2000, Clement Clarke, UK) using hypertonic saline, ultrasonic nebulizer using isotonic saline, compressed-air nebulizer (BestNeb, Taiwan) using hypertonic saline, and compressed-air nebulizer using isotonic saline. Overall, the use of an ultrasonic nebulizer and hypertonic saline yielded significantly higher total sputum cell counts and a higher percentage of cell viability than compressed-air nebulizers and isotonic saline. With the latter, there was a trend towards squamous cell contaminations. The proportion of various sputum cell types was not significantly different between the groups, and the reproducibility in sputum macrophages and neutrophils was high (Intraclass correlation coefficient, r [95%CI]: 0.65 [0.30-0.91] and 0.58 [0.22-0.89], p < 0.001). Overall changes in median FEV, were small and comparable between all groups. Induction using ultrasonic nebulizers together with hypertonic saline was generally less well tolerated than compressed-air nebulizers and isotonic saline. We conclude that in normal subjects, although both nebulizers and saline types can induce sputum with reproducible cellular profile, ultrasonic nebulizers and hypertonic saline are more effective but less well tolerated.

Nebulized naloxone gently and effectively reverses methadone intoxication.

PubMed

Mycyk, Mark B; Szyszko, Amy L; Aks, Steven E

2003-02-01

A 46-year-old woman presented to the Emergency Department with lethargy and respiratory depression after ingesting methadone. Initial oxygen saturation of 61% on room air did not improve with supplemental oxygenation. As venous access was initially unobtainable, naloxone was administered by nebulizer. Within 5 min oxygen saturation was 100% and mental status was normal. The patient did not develop severe withdrawal symptoms. Naloxone hydrochloride has been administered by various routes to treat opioid toxicity. Our report describes the successful use of nebulized naloxone for methadone toxicity.

[Analytical figures of merit of Hildebrand grid and ultrasonic nebulizations in inductively coupled plasma atomic emission].

PubMed

Tian, Mei; Han, Xiao-yuan; Zhuo, Shang-jun; Zhang, Rui-rong

2012-05-01

Hildebrand grid nebulizer is a kind of improved Babington nebulizer, which can nebulize solutions with high total dissolved solids. And the ultrasonic nebulizer (USN) possesses advantage of high nebulization efficiency and fine droplets. In the present paper, the detection limits, matrix effects, ICP robustness and memory effects of Hildebrand grid and ultrasonic nebulizers for ICP-AES were studied. The results show that the detection limits using USN are improved by a factor of 6-23 in comparison to Hildebrand grid nebulizer for Cu, Pb, Zn, Cr, Cd and Ni. With the USN the matrix effects were heavier, and the degree of intensity enhancement and lowering depends on the element line, the composition and concentrations of matrices. Moreover, matrix effects induced by Ca and Mg are more significant than those caused by Na and Mg, and intensities of ionic lines are affected more easily than those of atomic lines. At the same time, with the USN ICP has less robustness. In addition, memory effect of the USN is also heavier than that of Hildebrand grid nebulizer.

[Effectiveness of the HighFO novel oxygen nebulizer for respiratory failure patients with severe hypoxia].

PubMed

Takamatsu, Kazufumi; Sakuramoto, Minoru; Inoue, Daiki; Ishitoko, Manabu; Itotani, Ryo; Suzuki, Shinko; Matsumoto, Masataka; Takemura, Masaya; Fukui, Motonari

2011-04-01

Optimal oxygen delivery is an essential component of therapy for patients with respiratory failure. Reservoir masks or air entrainment nebulizers have often been used for patients who require highly concentrated oxygen, but these may not actually deliver a sufficient fraction of inspired oxygen if there is a marked increase in the patient's ventilatory demands, or if oxygen flow becomes limited due to high resistance in the nebulizer nozzles. The HighFO nebulizer is a novel air entrainment nebulizer equipped with unique structures which reduce nozzle resistance, and as a result, it is possible to supply a sufficient flow of highly concentrated-oxygen. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness and usefulness of the HighFO nebulizer in 10 respiratory failure patients with severe hypoxemia who used a reservoir mask and required more than 10 L/min of oxygen supply. In each case, the reservoir mask was replaced with the HighFO nebulizer, and changes in percutaneous oxygen saturation (SpO2) were monitored using pulse oximetry. Oxygenation improved promptly after the reservoir mask was substituted for the HighFO nebulizer (SpO2 : 83.7% +/- 8.5%-94.2% +/- 3.2%, p = 0.007). This finding suggests that the HighFO nebulizer was reasonably effective in delivering highly concentrated oxygen, sufficient for patient demands. The HighFO nebulizer may be the beginning of a new strategy for oxygen therapy.

Incorporating a Nebulizer System Into High-Flow Nasal Cannula Improves Comfort in Infants With Bronchiolitis.

PubMed

Valencia-Ramos, Juan; Mirás, Alicia; Cilla, Amacia; Ochoa, Carlos; Arnaez, Juan

2018-07-01

High-flow nasal cannula (HFNC) is increasingly used to provide respiratory support in infants with bronchiolitis. The delivery of aerosol therapy through a jet nebulizer is widely indicated despite its controversial efficacy and poor tolerability. This randomized cross-over study aimed to evaluate the comfort and satisfaction of the delivery of aerosol therapy using a nebulization system integrated into HFNC compared with the standard practice of using a jet nebulizer with a face mask. The COMFORT-Behavior (COMFORT-B) scale, a visual analog scale, and a numeric rating scale were used by health professionals and caregivers to assess subjects' levels of comfort and satisfaction. A total of 113 nebulizations (64 via nebulizer with HFNC; 49 via jet nebulizer) were delivered to the 6 subjects included in the study. Use of the nebulizer with HFNC showed increased comfort and satisfaction during nebulization compared to use of the jet nebulizer, as measured by the COMFORT-B scale, the visual analog scale, and the numeric rating scale, with the following median (interquartile range) scores: 10.7 (7-16) versus 14.5 (10-20) ( P = .006), 8.5 (6-10) versus 7 (4-9) ( P = .02), and 3.84 (3.61-4.07) versus 1.83 (1.58-2.08) ( P < .001), respectively. Correlation between the COMFORT-B scale and the visual analog scale using Spearman's rho was -0.757 ( P < .001). The intraclass correlation coefficient for the COMFORT-B scale, visual analog scale, and numeric rating scale, as measured by 2 different nurses, was between 0.75 and 0.87. The use of a nebulizer incorporated into HFNC therapy results in an increased level of comfort and satisfaction compared to the use of a conventional jet nebulizer in subjects with bronchiolitis who required HFNC therapy. Further studies are needed to determine whether aerosol therapy delivered through HFNC improves the clinical course of this pathology. Copyright © 2018 by Daedalus Enterprises.

Facial and ocular deposition of nebulized budesonide: effects of face mask design.

PubMed

Harris, Keith W; Smaldone, Gerald C

2008-02-01

In vivo case reports and in vitro studies have indicated that aerosol therapy using face masks can result in drug deposition on the face and in the eyes, and that face mask design may affect drug delivery. To test different mask/nebulizer combinations for budesonide, a nebulized steroid used to treat pediatric patients with asthma. Using high-performance liquid chromatography, drug delivery (inhaled mass), facial, and ocular deposition of budesonide aerosols were studied in vitro using a ventilated face facsimile (tidal volume, 50 mL; rate, 25 breaths/min, duty cycle 0.4), a tight-fitting test mask, a standard commercial mask, and a prototype mask designed to optimize delivery by reducing particle inertia. Nebulizer insertion into the mask (front loaded vs bottom loaded) was also tested. Particle size was measured by cascade impaction. Pari LC Plus (PARI Respiratory Equipment; Midlothian, VA) and MistyNeb (Allegiance; McGaw Park, IL) nebulizers were tested. Inhaled mass for tight-fitting and prototype masks was similar (13.2 +/- 1.85% vs 14.4 +/- 0.67% [percentage of nebulizer charge], p = 0.58) and significantly greater than for the commercial mask (3.03 +/- 0.26%, p = 0.005). Mask insertion of nebulizer was a key factor (inhaled mass: front loaded vs bottom loaded, 8.23 +/- 0.18% vs 3.03 +/- 0.26%; p = 0.005). Ocular deposition varied by an order of magnitude and was a strong function of mask design (4.77 +/- 0.24% vs 0.35 +/- 0.05%, p = 0.002, tight fitting vs prototype). Particle sizes (7.3 to 9 microm) were larger than previously reported for budesonide. For pediatric breathing patterns, mask design is a key factor defining budesonide delivery to the lungs, face, and eyes. Front-loaded nebulizer mask combinations are more efficient than bottom-loaded systems.

PDI using nebulized indocyanine green for pneumonia treatment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Geralde, Mariana C.; Kassab, Giulia; Inada, Natalia M.; Kurachi, Cristina; Bagnato, Vanderlei S.

2018-02-01

Infectious pneumonia is a major cause of morbidity/mortality, mainly due to the increasing rate of microorganisms resistant to antibiotics. Photodynamic Inactivation (PDI) is emerging as a promising treatment option, which effects are based on oxidative stress, targeting several biomolecules and probably preventing potential resistant strains. In previous studies, the in vitro inactivation of Streptococcus pneumoniae using indocyanine green (ICG) and infrared (IR) light source (780 nm) was successful, and achieving satisfactory reduction of colony-forming units (CFU/mL). In the present study, a proof-of-principle protocol was designed to treat lung infections by PDI using extracorporeal irradiation with a 780 nm laser device and nebulized ICG as photosensitizer. Balb/c mice were infected with S. pneumoniae and PDI was performed two days after infection using 800 μM of nebulized ICG and extracorporeal irradiation. Our results indicate that IR-extracorporeal PDI using nebulized ICG may be considered a potential pneumonia treatment, and pulmonary decontamination with PDI may be used as a single therapy or as an adjuvant for antibiotics.

Protein stability in pulmonary drug delivery via nebulization.

PubMed

Hertel, Sebastian P; Winter, Gerhard; Friess, Wolfgang

2015-10-01

Protein inhalation is a delivery route which offers high potential for direct local lung application of proteins. Liquid formulations are usually available in early stages of biopharmaceutical development and nebulizers are the device of choice for atomization avoiding additional process steps like drying and enabling fast progression to clinical trials. While some proteins were proven to remain stable throughout aerosolization e.g. DNase, many biopharmaceuticals are more susceptible towards the stresses encountered during nebulization. The main reason for protein instability is unfolding and aggregation at the air-liquid interface, a problem which is of particular challenge in the case of ultrasound and jet nebulizers due to recirculation of much of the generated droplets. Surfactants are an important formulation component to protect the sensitive biomolecules. A second important challenge is warming of ultrasound and vibrating mesh devices, which can be overcome by overfilling, precooled solutions or cooling of the reservoir. Ultimately, formulation development has to go hand in hand with device evaluation. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Characterization of a human powered nebulizer compressor for resource poor settings

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Background Respiratory disease accounts for three of the ten leading causes of death worldwide. Many of these diseases can be treated and diagnosed using a nebulizer. Nebulizers can also be used to safely and efficiently deliver vaccines. Unfortunately, commercially available nebulizers are not designed for use in regions of the world where lung disease is most prevalent: they are electricity-dependent, cost-prohibitive, and not built to be reliable in harsh operating conditions or under frequent use. To overcome these limitations, the Human Powered Nebulizer compressor (HPN) was developed. The HPN does not require electricity; instead airflow is generated manually through a hand-crank or bicycle-style pedal system. A health care worker or other trained individual operates the device while the patient receives treatment. This study demonstrates functional specifications of the HPN in comparison with a standard commercially available electric jet nebulizer compressor, the DeVilbiss Pulmo-Aide 5650D (Pulmo-Aide). Methods Pressure and flow characteristics were measured with a rotameter and pressure transducer, respectively. Volume nebulized by each compressor was determined by mass, and particle size distribution was determined via laser diffraction. The Hudson RCI Micro Mist nebulizer mouthpiece was used with both compressors. Results The pressure and flow generated by the HPN and Pulmo-Aide were: 15.17 psi and 10.5 L/min; and 14.65 psi and 11.2 L/min, respectively. The volume of liquid delivered by each was equivalent, 1.097 ± 0.107 mL (mean ± s.e.m., n = 13) for the HPN and 1.092 ± 0.116 mL for the Pulmo-Aide. The average particle size was also equivalent, 5.38 ± 0.040 micrometers (mean ± s.e.m., n = 7) and 5.40 ± 0.025 micrometers, respectively. Conclusions Based on these characteristics, the HPN’s performance is equivalent to a popular commercially available electric nebulizer compressor. The findings presented in

Does nebulized fentanyl relieve dyspnea during exercise in healthy man?

PubMed Central

Kotrach, Houssam G.; Bourbeau, Jean

2015-01-01

Few therapies exist for the relief of dyspnea in restrictive lung disorders. Accumulating evidence suggests that nebulized opioids selective for the mu-receptor subtype may relieve dyspnea by modulating intrapulmonary opioid receptor activity. Our respective primary and secondary objectives were to test the hypothesis that nebulized fentanyl (a mu-opioid receptor agonist) relieves dyspnea during exercise in the presence of abnormal restrictive ventilatory constraints and to identify the physiological mechanisms of this improvement. In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover study, we examined the effect of 250 μg nebulized fentanyl, chest wall strapping (CWS), and their interaction on detailed physiological and perceptual responses to constant work rate cycle exercise (85% of maximum incremental work rate) in 14 healthy, fit young men. By design, CWS decreased vital capacity by ∼20% and mimicked the negative consequences of a mild restrictive lung disorder on exercise endurance time and on dyspnea, breathing pattern, dynamic operating lung volumes, and diaphragmatic electromyographic and respiratory muscle function during exercise. Compared with placebo under both unrestricted control and CWS conditions, nebulized fentanyl had no effect on exercise endurance time, integrated physiological response to exercise, sensory intensity, unpleasantness ratings of exertional dyspnea. Our results do not support a role for intrapulmonary opioids in the neuromodulation of exertional dyspnea in health nor do they provide a physiological rationale for the use of nebulized fentanyl in the management of dyspnea due to mild restrictive lung disorders, specifically those arising from abnormalities of the chest wall and not affiliated with airway inflammation. PMID:26031762

Aerosol Delivery Using Jet Nebulizer and Vibrating Mesh Nebulizer During High Frequency Oscillatory Ventilation: An In Vitro Comparison.

PubMed

Fang, Tien-Pei; Lin, Hui-Ling; Chiu, Shu-Hua; Wang, Szu-Hui; DiBlasi, Robert M; Tsai, Ying-Huang; Fink, James B

2016-10-01

High frequency oscillatory ventilation (HFOV) is used in critically ill patients with severe hypoxemic respiratory failure. The purpose of this in vitro study was to determine the efficiency of aerosol delivery with different lung parameters during simulated neonatal, pediatric, and adult HFOV. Sensormedics 3100A/B ventilators were used to deliver infant, pediatric, and adult HFOV. Two types of aerosol generators were chosen for testing: 1) a continuous jet nebulizer (JN) with a unit-dose of 5.0 mg/2.5 mL salbutamol sulfate diluted into 4 mL, and 2) a vibrating mesh nebulizer (VMN) with salbutamol sulfate were run to completion of aerosol generation. Both aerosol devices were placed 1) between the ventilator circuit and the endotracheal tube (ETT) (proximal position); and 2) at the inlet of the heated humidifier (distal position) (n = 5). Drug was collected on a bacterial filter placed distal to the ETT, and the drug eluted and analyzed with a UV Spectrophotometer at 276 nm. T- test and ANOVA tests were used for comparison (p < 0.05). The inhaled drug delivered by JN was 0%-0.6% of the nominal dose when placed at distal position, and 0%-3% at proximal position (p < 0.01), while the VMN was 0%-0.5% at distal and 8.6%-22.7% at proximal position (p < 0.01). Aerosol delivery during HFOV was greater with adult settings than pediatric and infant settings with VMN and JN (22.7%, 8.6%, and 17.4% respectively, p < 0.01). When the aerosol delivery device was placed at the distal position, negligible drug mass was observed (<0.5%), regardless of the nebulizer device used. During HFOV, aerosol delivery with the nebulizer placed at proximal was greater than placement distal from the ETT, with VMN delivering more drug than JN. The inhaled drug was delivery correlated positively with ETT size, MAP, and bias flow, and inversely proportional to power settings.

Nebulization reflux concentrator

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Collins, V. G.; Cofer, W. R., III

1986-01-01

A nebulization reflux concentrator for removing trace gas contaminants from a sample gas is described. Sample gas from a gas supply is drawn by a suction source into a vessel. The gas enters the vessel through an atomizing nozzle, thereby atomizing and entraining a scrubbing liquid solvent drawn through a siphon tube from a scrubbing liquid reservoir. The gas and entrained liquid rise through a concentrator and impinge upon a solvent phobic filter, whereby purified gas exits through the filter housing and contaminated liquid coalesces on the solvent phobic filter and falls into the reservoir.

Inhalation of Nebulized Perfluorochemical Enhances Recombinant Adenovirus and Adeno-Associated Virus-Mediated Gene Expression in Lung Epithelium

PubMed Central

Beckett, Travis; Bonneau, Laura; Howard, Alan; Blanchard, James; Borda, Juan; Weiner, Daniel J.; Wang, Lili; Gao, Guang Ping; Kolls, Jay K.; Bohm, Rudolf; Liggitt, Denny

2012-01-01

Abstract Use of perfluorochemical liquids during intratracheal vector administration enhances recombinant adenovirus and adeno-associated virus (AAV)-mediated lung epithelial gene expression. We hypothesized that inhalation of nebulized perfluorochemical vapor would also enhance epithelial gene expression after subsequent intratracheal vector administration. Freely breathing adult C57BL/6 mice were exposed for selected times to nebulized perflubron or sterile saline in a sealed Plexiglas chamber. Recombinant adenoviral vector was administered by transtracheal puncture at selected times afterward and mice were killed 3 days after vector administration to assess transgene expression. Mice tolerated the nebulized perflubron without obvious ill effects. Vector administration 6 hr after nebulized perflubron exposure resulted in an average 540% increase in gene expression in airway and alveolar epithelium, compared with that with vector alone or saline plus vector control (p<0.05). However, vector administration 1 hr, 1 day, or 3 days after perflubron exposure was not different from either nebulized saline with vector or vector alone and a 60-min exposure to nebulized perflubron is required. In parallel pilot studies in macaques, inhalation of nebulized perflubron enhanced recombinant AAV2/5 vector expression throughout the lung. Serial chest radiographs, bronchoalveolar lavages, and results of complete blood counts and serum biochemistries demonstrated no obvious adverse effects of nebulized perflubron. Further, one macaque receiving nebulized perflubron only was monitored for 1 year with no obvious adverse effects of exposure. These results demonstrate that inhalation of nebulized perflubron, a simple, clinically more feasible technique than intratracheal administration of liquid perflubron, safely enhances lung gene expression. PMID:22568624

Nebulized antibiotics. An adequate option for treating ventilator-associated respiratory infection?

PubMed

Rodríguez, A; Barcenilla, F

2015-03-01

Ventilator-associated tracheobronchitis (VAT) is a frequent complication in critical patients. The 90% of those who develop it receive broad-spectrum antibiotic (ATB) treatment, without any strong evidence of its favorable impact. The use of nebulized ATB could be a valid treatment option, to reduce the use of systemic ATB and the pressure of selection on the local flora. Several studies suggest that an adequate nebulization technique can ensure high levels of ATB even in areas of lung consolidation, and to obtain clinical and microbiological cure. New studies are needed to properly assess the impact of treatment with nebulized ATB on the emergence of resistance. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier España, S.L.U. y SEMICYUC. All rights reserved.

Effects of peritoneal ropivacaine nebulization for pain control after laparoscopic gynecologic surgery.

PubMed

Somaini, Marta; Brambillasca, Pietro; Ingelmo, Pablo Mauricio; Lovisari, Federica; Catenacci, Stefano Scalia; Rossini, Valeria; Bucciero, Mario; Sahillioglu, Emre; Buda, Alessandro; Signorelli, Mauro; Gili, Mauro; Joshi, Girish; Fumagalli, Roberto; Ferland, Catherine E; Diemunsch, Pierre

2014-01-01

To evaluate the effects of peritoneal cold nebulization of ropivacaine on pain control after gynecologic laparoscopy. Evidence obtained from a properly designed, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial (Canadian Task Force classification I). Tertiary care center. One hundred thirty-five women with American Society of Anesthesiologists disease classified as ASA I-III who were scheduled to undergo operative laparoscopy. Patients were randomized to receive either nebulization of 30 mg ropivacaine before surgery (preoperative group), nebulization of 30 mg ropivacaine after surgery (postoperative group), instillation of 100 mg ropivacaine before surgery (instillation group), or instillation of saline solution (control group). Nebulization was performed using the Aeroneb Pro device. Pain scores, morphine consumption, and ambulation time were collected in the post-anesthesia care unit and at 4, 6, and 24 hours postoperatively. One hundred eighteen patients completed the study. Patients in the preoperative group reported lower pain Numeric Ranking Scale values compared with those in the control group (net difference 2 points; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.3-3.1 at 4 hours, 1-3 at 6 hours, and 0.7-3 at 24 hours; p = .01) Patients in the preoperative group consumed significantly less morphine than did those in the control group (net difference 7 mg; 95% CI, 0.7-13; p = .02). More patients who received nebulization walked without assistance within 12 hours after awakening than did those in the instillation and control groups (net difference 15%; 95% CI, 6%-24%; p = .001). Cold nebulization of ropivacaine before surgery reduced postoperative pain and morphine consumption and was associated with earlier walking without assistance. Copyright © 2014 AAGL. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Comparison of numerical simulations to experiments for atomization in a jet nebulizer.

PubMed

Lelong, Nicolas; Vecellio, Laurent; Sommer de Gélicourt, Yann; Tanguy, Christian; Diot, Patrice; Junqua-Moullet, Alexandra

2013-01-01

The development of jet nebulizers for medical purposes is an important challenge of aerosol therapy. The performance of a nebulizer is characterized by its output rate of droplets with a diameter under 5 µm. However the optimization of this parameter through experiments has reached a plateau. The purpose of this study is to design a numerical model simulating the nebulization process and to compare it with experimental data. Such a model could provide a better understanding of the atomization process and the parameters influencing the nebulizer output. A model based on the Updraft nebulizer (Hudson) was designed with ANSYS Workbench. Boundary conditions were set with experimental data then transient 3D calculations were run on a 4 µm mesh with ANSYS Fluent. Two air flow rate (2 L/min and 8 L/min, limits of the operating range) were considered to account for different turbulence regimes. Numerical and experimental results were compared according to phenomenology and droplet size. The behavior of the liquid was compared to images acquired through shadowgraphy with a CCD Camera. Three experimental methods, laser diffractometry, phase Doppler anemometry (PDA) and shadowgraphy were used to characterize the droplet size distributions. Camera images showed similar patterns as numerical results. Droplet sizes obtained numerically are overestimated in relation to PDA and diffractometry, which only consider spherical droplets. However, at both flow rates, size distributions extracted from numerical image processing were similar to distributions obtained from shadowgraphy image processing. The simulation then provides a good understanding and prediction of the phenomena involved in the fragmentation of droplets over 10 µm. The laws of dynamics apply to droplets down to 1 µm, so we can assume the continuity of the distribution and extrapolate the results for droplets between 1 and 10 µm. So, this model could help predicting nebulizer output with defined geometrical and

Comparison of Numerical Simulations to Experiments for Atomization in a Jet Nebulizer

PubMed Central

Lelong, Nicolas; Vecellio, Laurent; Sommer de Gélicourt, Yann; Tanguy, Christian; Diot, Patrice; Junqua-Moullet, Alexandra

2013-01-01

The development of jet nebulizers for medical purposes is an important challenge of aerosol therapy. The performance of a nebulizer is characterized by its output rate of droplets with a diameter under 5 µm. However the optimization of this parameter through experiments has reached a plateau. The purpose of this study is to design a numerical model simulating the nebulization process and to compare it with experimental data. Such a model could provide a better understanding of the atomization process and the parameters influencing the nebulizer output. A model based on the Updraft nebulizer (Hudson) was designed with ANSYS Workbench. Boundary conditions were set with experimental data then transient 3D calculations were run on a 4 µm mesh with ANSYS Fluent. Two air flow rate (2 L/min and 8 L/min, limits of the operating range) were considered to account for different turbulence regimes. Numerical and experimental results were compared according to phenomenology and droplet size. The behavior of the liquid was compared to images acquired through shadowgraphy with a CCD Camera. Three experimental methods, laser diffractometry, phase Doppler anemometry (PDA) and shadowgraphy were used to characterize the droplet size distributions. Camera images showed similar patterns as numerical results. Droplet sizes obtained numerically are overestimated in relation to PDA and diffractometry, which only consider spherical droplets. However, at both flow rates, size distributions extracted from numerical image processing were similar to distributions obtained from shadowgraphy image processing. The simulation then provides a good understanding and prediction of the phenomena involved in the fragmentation of droplets over 10 µm. The laws of dynamics apply to droplets down to 1 µm, so we can assume the continuity of the distribution and extrapolate the results for droplets between 1 and 10 µm. So, this model could help predicting nebulizer output with defined geometrical and

Sinuclean Nebules treatment in children suffering from otitis media with effusion.

PubMed

Varricchio, A; De Lucia, A; Varricchio, A M; Della Volpe, A; Mansi, N; Pastore, V; Ciprandi, G

2017-03-01

Otitis media with effusion (OME) is an ear disorder defined by the presence of fluid in the middle ear without signs or symptoms of acute infection. The current randomized, double-blind, controlled study aimed to evaluate whether Sinuclean Nebules treatment, administered by nasal douche (Rinowash), could induce ear healing better than isotonic saline in children with OME. The study was randomized, double-blind, and controlled. Group A (30 children) was treated with Sinuclean Nebules 45 and Group B (31 children) was treated with isotonic saline; both compounds were administered by nasal nebulization with Rinowash nasal douche twice/day in the morning and in the evening for 10 days, followed by a one-week suspension, and after by a second course as the first. Tympanogram and audiometry were performed at baseline and after treatment. Considering the global evaluation of the treatment: in Group A, 28 (93.3%) patients had complete resolution and 2 (6.7%) had partial resolution; in Group B, all patients had failure of treatment. There was a significant difference between groups (p < 0.0001). The current randomized-controlled study demonstrated that Sinuclean Nebules was effective and in the treatment of children with OME. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Effect of budesonide transnasal nebulization in patients with eosinophilic chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps.

PubMed

Wang, Chengshuo; Lou, Hongfei; Wang, Xiangdong; Wang, Yang; Fan, Erzhong; Li, Ying; Wang, Hong; Bachert, Claus; Zhang, Luo

2015-04-01

There is little evidence on the efficacy of glucocorticoid transnasal nebulization therapy in patients with eosinophilic chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP). We sought to evaluate the immunologic and remodeling effects of budesonide transnasal nebulization in patients with eosinophilic CRSwNP. Sixty patients with eosinophilic CRSwNP were randomized to receive budesonide or placebo treatment for 14 days by means of transnasal nebulization in a double-blind manner. Endoscopic polyp size scores (maximum = 6 points, Kennedy score) and visual analog scale scores for nasal symptoms were assessed before and after treatment. Similarly, polyp samples were evaluated for inflammatory cytokines, matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs) by using an immunoassay; collagen by using histochemistry; eosinophils by using hematoxylin and eosin stain; and T-cell subsets by using flow cytometry. Budesonide transnasal nebulization significantly reduced polyp size compared with placebo (mean difference between groups, -0.73 units; 95% CI, -1.15 to -0.32 units; P = .002) and improved symptoms. Polyp IL-5 and eotaxin expression decreased significantly, whereas TGF-β and IL-10 expression increased. Expression of IFN-γ and IL-17 was not altered. Budesonide transnasal nebulization consistently reduced eosinophil infiltration and TH2 cell frequency and increased natural regulatory T-cell and type 1 regulatory T-cell frequencies. Indices of remodeling, including albumin, MMP-2, MMP-7, MMP-8, and MMP-9, were significantly decreased, whereas collagen deposition and TIMP-1, TIMP-2, and TIMP-4 levels were significantly increased. Budesonide transnasal nebulization did not suppress the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis or cause any serious side effects. Short-term budesonide transnasal nebulization is an effective and safe treatment option in patients with eosinophilic CRSwNP, achieving clinical improvement by regulating remodeling

Impact of humidification and nebulization during expiratory limb protection: an experimental bench study.

PubMed

Tonnelier, Alexandre; Lellouche, François; Bouchard, Pierre Alexandre; L'Her, Erwan

2013-08-01

Different filtering devices are used during mechanical ventilation to avoid dysfunction of flow and pressure transducers or for airborne microorganisms containment. Water condensates, resulting from the use of humidifiers, but also residual nebulization particles may have a major influence on expiratory limb resistance. To evaluate the influence of nebulization and active humidification on the resistance of expiratory filters. A respiratory system analog was constructed using a test lung, an ICU ventilator, heated humidifiers, and a piezoelectric nebulizer. Humidifiers were connected to different types of circuits (unheated, mono-heated, new-generation and old-generation bi-heated). Five filter types were evaluated: electrostatic, heat-and-moisture exchanger, standard, specific, and internal heated high-efficiency particulate air [HEPA] filter. Baseline characteristics were obtained from each dry filter. Differential pressure measurements were carried out after 24 hours of continuous in vitro use for each condition, and after 24 hours of use with an old-generation bi-heated circuit without nebulization. While using unheated circuits, measurements had to be interrupted before 24 hours for all the filtering devices except the internal heated HEPA filter. The heat-and-moisture exchangers occluded before 24 hours with the unheated and mono-heated circuits. The circuit type, nebulization practice, and duration of use did not influence the internal heated HEPA filter resistance. Expiratory limb filtration is likely to induce several major adverse events. Expiratory filter resistance increase is due mainly to the humidification circuit type, rather than to nebulization. If filtration is mandatory while using an unheated circuit, a dedicated filter should be used for ≤ 24 hours, or a heated HEPA for a longer duration.

Effect of nebulized budesonide on decreasing the recurrence of allergic fungal rhinosinusitis.

PubMed

Dai, Qi; Duan, Chen; Liu, Quan; Yu, Hongmeng

The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical efficacy and the effects on decreasing the recurrence of AFRS (allergic fungal rhinosinusitis) of a budesonide inhalation suspension delivered via transnasal nebulization to patients following endoscopic sinus surgery. Thirty-five patients were recruited into this study. Final diagnoses were reached using Bent and Kuhn's criteria. The eligible patients were randomly divided into two groups: the budesonide transnasal nebulization group (group A) and the topical nasal steroids group (group B). Nasal symptoms, Lund-Mackay scores, and Kupferberg grades were evaluated before surgery, after surgery and during the follow-up to assess the effects of these two approaches. A total of 30 patients with AFRS who were eligible were included in the study. Four of the 15 patients in group B (26.67%) developed recurrent disease, whereas no patients in group A developed recurrent disease. This difference was statistically significant (p=0.032). Nebulized budesonide is an effective and safe treatment for patients with AFRS following endoscopic sinus surgery, as evidenced by the reduced recurrence rate observed in the budesonide transnasal nebulization group relative to the topical nasal steroids group. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Feedback mechanism for smart nozzles and nebulizers

DOEpatents

Montaser, Akbar [Potomac, MD; Jorabchi, Kaveh [Arlington, VA; Kahen, Kaveh [Kleinburg, CA

2009-01-27

Nozzles and nebulizers able to produce aerosol with optimum and reproducible quality based on feedback information obtained using laser imaging techniques. Two laser-based imaging techniques based on particle image velocimetry (PTV) and optical patternation map and contrast size and velocity distributions for indirect and direct pneumatic nebulizations in plasma spectrometry. Two pulses from thin laser sheet with known time difference illuminate droplets flow field. Charge coupled device (CCL)) captures scattering of laser light from droplets, providing two instantaneous particle images. Pointwise cross-correlation of corresponding images yields two-dimensional velocity map of aerosol velocity field. For droplet size distribution studies, solution is doped with fluorescent dye and both laser induced florescence (LIF) and Mie scattering images are captured simultaneously by two CCDs with the same field of view. Ratio of LIF/Mie images provides relative droplet size information, then scaled by point calibration method via phase Doppler particle analyzer.

Impact of atomization technique on the stability and transport efficiency of nebulized liposomes harboring different surface characteristics.

PubMed

Lehofer, Bernhard; Bloder, Florian; Jain, Pritesh P; Marsh, Leigh M; Leitinger, Gerd; Olschewski, Horst; Leber, Regina; Olschewski, Andrea; Prassl, Ruth

2014-11-01

The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of nebulization on liposomes with specific surface characteristics by applying three commercially available inhaler systems (air-jet, ultrasonic and vibrating-mesh). Conventional liposome formulations composed of phosphatidylcholine and cholesterol were compared to sterically stabilized PEGylated liposomes and cationic polymer coated liposomes.Liposomes of similar size (between 140 and 165 nm in diameter with polydispersity indices <0.1) were prepared by dry lipid film rehydration followed by size extrusion. Their stability upon nebulization was determined in terms of size, polydispersity index and leakage using a fluorescence quenching system. The transport efficiencies of the nebulizer devices and the influences of both salt and liposomes on the droplet size distribution of the aerosol were investigated. While the droplet size of the aerosol decreased with increasing salt concentration the liposomes had no influence on the droplet size distribution. The output of the nebulizers in terms of liposomal transport efficiencies differed significantly among the nebulizer principles (20–100%, p < 0.05), with the vibrating-mesh nebulizers being the most effective. The integrity of the conventional liposomes was almost unaffected by the atomization process, while polymer coated and especially positively charged liposomes showed enhanced leakage. The release rates for the hydrophilic model drug system were highest for the vibrating-mesh nebulizers regardless of the surface characteristics of the liposomes (increasing from 10% to 20% and 50% for the conventional, PEGylated and positively charged formulations, respectively). In view of surface modified liposomes our data suggest that drug delivery via nebulization necessitates the finding of a compromise between nebulizer efficiency, formulation stability and drug release profile to accomplish the development of tailored formulations suitable for advanced inhalation

Fenoterol versus salbutamol nebulization in asthma.

PubMed Central

Hockley, B.; Johnson, N. M.

1983-01-01

A double-blind crossover study was conducted in 10 stable asthmatics comparing 5 mg fenoterol with 5 mg salbutamol, both given via a Hudson nebulizer. Although both drugs caused significant bronchodilatation at the doses used, fenoterol had a significantly greater peak effect than salbutamol and its duration of action was 4 hr as opposed to 3 hr. PMID:6353397

Nebulized heparin for patients under mechanical ventilation: an individual patient data meta-analysis.

PubMed

Glas, Gerie J; Serpa Neto, Ary; Horn, Janneke; Cochran, Amalia; Dixon, Barry; Elamin, Elamin M; Faraklas, Iris; Dissanaike, Sharmila; Miller, Andrew C; Schultz, Marcus J

2016-12-01

Pulmonary coagulopathy is a characteristic feature of lung injury including ventilator-induced lung injury. The aim of this individual patient data meta-analysis is to assess the effects of nebulized anticoagulants on outcome of ventilated intensive care unit (ICU) patients. A systematic search of PubMed (1966-2014), Scopus, EMBASE, and Web of Science was conducted to identify relevant publications. Studies evaluating nebulization of anticoagulants in ventilated patients were screened for inclusion, and corresponding authors of included studies were contacted to provide individual patient data. The primary endpoint was the number of ventilator-free days and alive at day 28. Secondary endpoints included hospital mortality, ICU- and hospital-free days at day 28, and lung injury scores at day seven. We constructed a propensity score-matched cohort for comparisons between patients treated with nebulized anticoagulants and controls. Data from five studies (one randomized controlled trial, one open label study, and three studies using historical controls) were included in the meta-analysis, compassing 286 patients. In all studies unfractionated heparin was used as anticoagulant. The number of ventilator-free days and alive at day 28 was higher in patients treated with nebulized heparin compared to patients in the control group (14 [IQR 0-23] vs. 6 [IQR 0-22]), though the difference did not reach statistical significance (P = 0.459). The number of ICU-free days and alive at day 28 was significantly higher, and the lung injury scores at day seven were significantly lower in patients treated with nebulized heparin. In the propensity score-matched analysis, there were no differences in any of the endpoints. This individual patient data meta-analysis provides no convincing evidence for benefit of heparin nebulization in intubated and ventilated ICU patients. The small patient numbers and methodological shortcomings of included studies underline the need for high

Nebulized isotonic saline versus water following a laryngeal desiccation challenge in classically trained sopranos.

PubMed

Tanner, Kristine; Roy, Nelson; Merrill, Ray M; Muntz, Faye; Houtz, Daniel R; Sauder, Cara; Elstad, Mark; Wright-Costa, Julie

2010-12-01

To examine the effects of nebulized isotonic saline (IS) versus sterile water (SW) on self-perceived phonatory effort (PPE) and phonation threshold pressure (PTP) following a surface laryngeal dehydration challenge in classically trained sopranos. In a double-blind, within-subject crossover design, 34 sopranos breathed dry air (relative humidity < 1%) transorally for 15 min and then nebulized 3 mL of IS or SW, or experienced a no-treatment control condition over 3 consecutive weeks. PPE and PTP were measured every 15 min from baseline through 2 hr postdesiccation. PPE increased significantly following the laryngeal desiccation challenge in all 3 treatment conditions (p < .01). After nebulization, PPE returned to baseline for the IS condition only. For the SW and control conditions, PPE remained above baseline during the 2 hr after desiccation. No statistically significant changes in PTP following laryngeal desiccation were observed, although values for the IS condition remained below baseline for nearly 2 hr after nebulization. PPE and PTP were not significantly correlated. Following a laryngeal surface dehydration challenge, classically trained sopranos reported increased vocal effort that persisted for at least 2 hr. Compared with SW, nebulized IS showed promise as an effective way to remediate the adverse, self-perceived effects of laryngeal desiccation.

A Collison nebulizer as an ion source for mass spectrometry analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pervukhin, V. V.; Sheven', D. G.; Kolomiets, Yu. N.

2014-12-01

It is proposed to use a Collison nebulizer as a source of ionization for mass-spectrometry with ionization at atmospheric pressure. This source does not require an electric voltage, radioactive sources, heaters, or liquid pumps. It is shown that the number of ions produced by the Collison nebulizer is ten times greater than the quantity of ions produced by the 63Ni radioactive source and three to four times greater than the number of ions produced with sonic ionization devices.

Short torch design for direct liquid sample introduction using conventional and micro-nebulizers for plasma spectrometry

DOEpatents

Montaser, Akbar [Potomac, MD; Westphal, Craig S [Landenberg, PA; Kahen, Kaveh [Montgomery Village, MD; Rutkowski, William F [Arlington, VA

2008-01-08

An apparatus and method for providing direct liquid sample introduction using a nebulizer are provided. The apparatus and method include a short torch having an inner tube and an outer tube, and an elongated adapter having a cavity for receiving the nebulizer and positioning a nozzle tip of the nebulizer a predetermined distance from a tip of the outer tube of the short torch. The predetermined distance is preferably about 2-5 mm.

Red and nebulous objects in dark clouds - A survey

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cohen, M.

1980-01-01

A search on the NGS-PO Sky Survey photographs has revealed 150 interesting nebulous and/or red objects, mostly lying in dark clouds and not previously catalogued. Spectral classifications are presented for 55 objects. These indicate a small number of new members of the class of Herbig-Haro objects, a significant number of new T Tauri stars, and a few emission-line hot stars. It is argued that hot, high-mass stars form preferentially in the dense cores of dark clouds. The possible symbiosis of high and low mass stars is considered. A new morphology class is defined for cometary nebulae, in which a star lies on the periphery of a nebulous ring.

Improved efficiency of budesonide nebulization using surface-active agents.

PubMed

Bouwman, A M; Heijstra, M P; Schaefer, N C; Duiverman, E J; Lesouëf, P N; Devadason, S G

2006-01-01

Our aim was to improve the efficiency of nebulised budesonide using surface-active agents. Cationic, anionic, and nonionic detergents were added to commercial budesonide suspension, and the particle size distribution during nebulization was measured using both cascade impaction and laser diffraction. Our results showed that the emitted dose was increased after addition of cationic (p < 0.001) and nonionic detergents (p < 0.01) compared with the commercial formulation alone. The respirable fraction was increased for all detergent formulations (p < 0.001) compared with the commercial formulation. We concluded that cationic and nonionic detergent increased the total output of budesonide from the Sidestream. All detergent formulations increased the respirable fraction of nebulized budesonide.

Heated air humidification versus cold air nebulization in newly tracheostomized patients

PubMed Central

Händel, Alexander; Wenzel, Angela; Kramer, Benedikt; Aderhold, Christoph; Hörmann, Karl; Stuck, Boris A.; Sommer, J. Ulrich

2017-01-01

Abstract Background After tracheostomy, the airway lacks an essential mechanism for warming and humidifying the inspired air with the consequent functional impairment and discomfort. The purpose of this study was to compare airway hydration with cold‐air nebulization versus heated high‐flow humidification on medical interventions and tracheal ciliary beat frequency (CBF). Methods Newly tracheostomized patients (n = 20) were treated either with cold‐air nebulization or heated humidification. The number of required tracheal suctioning procedures to clean the trachea and tracheal CBF were assessed. Results The number of required suctions per day was significantly lower in the heated humidification group with medians 3 versus 5 times per day. Mean CBF was significantly higher in the heated humidification group (6.36 ± 1.49 Hz) compared to the cold‐air nebulization group (3.99 ± 1.39 Hz). Conclusion The data suggest that heated humidification enhanced mucociliary transport leading to a reduced number of required suctioning procedures in the trachea, which may improve postoperative patient care. PMID:28990261

Topical airway anesthesia for awake fiberoptic intubation: Comparison between airway nerve blocks and nebulized lignocaine by ultrasonic nebulizer

PubMed Central

Gupta, Babita; Kohli, Santvana; Farooque, Kamran; Jalwal, Gopal; Gupta, Deepak; Sinha, Sumit; Chandralekha

2014-01-01

Overview: Awake fiberoptic bronchoscope (FOB) guided intubation is the gold standard of airway management in patients with cervical spine injury. It is essential to sufficiently anesthetize the upper airway before the performance of awake FOB guided intubation in order to ensure patient comfort and cooperation. This randomized controlled study was performed to compare two methods of airway anesthesia, namely ultrasonic nebulization of local anesthetic and performance of airway blocks. Materials and Methods: A total of 50 adult patients with cervical spine injury were randomly allocated into two groups. Group L received airway anesthesia through ultrasonic nebulization of 10 ml of 4% lignocaine and Group NB received airway blocks (bilateral superior laryngeal and transtracheal recurrent laryngeal) each with 2 ml of 2% lignocaine and viscous lignocaine gargles. FOB guided orotracheal intubation was then performed. Hemodynamic variables at baseline and during the procedure, patient recall, vocal cord visibility, ease of intubation, coughing/gagging episodes, and signs of lignocaine toxicity were noted. Results: The observations did not reveal any significant differences in demographics or hemodynamic parameters at any time during the study. However, the time taken for intubation was significantly lower in Group NB as compared with the Group L. Group L had an increased number of coughing/gagging episodes as compared with Group NB. Vocal cord visibility and ease of intubation were better in patients who received airway blocks and hence the amount of supplemental lignocaine used was less in this group. Overall patient comfort was better in Group NB with fewer incidences of unpleasant recalls as compared with Group L. Conclusion: Upper airway blocks provide better quality of anesthesia than lignocaine nebulization as assessed by patient recall of procedure, coughing/gagging episodes, ease of intubation, vocal cord visibility, and time taken to intubate. PMID:25538514

Determination of alkyllead compounds by HPLC/ICP using a glass-frit nebulizer ICP interface

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ibrahim, Mona; Nisamaneepong, Wipawan; Haas, David L.; Caruso, Joseph A.

The glass-frit nebulizer, by forming a very fine mist, has improved the ability of the ICP to accept the introduction of organic solvents with high evaporation rates. The reversed-phase chromatographic separation of TML and TEL, and their determination with glass frit nebulization ICP was accomplished with various mobile phases and columns. The separation of several trialkyllead salts also was studied on a strong cation exchange column, but these compounds were not determined with the glass frit nebulizer interface. Detection limits as low as 33 pg s -1 for TML and 100 pg s -1 for TEL and precision of 3.4% for TML and 6.9% relative standard deviation for TEL were obtained.

Droplet size prediction in ultrasonic nebulization for non-oxide ceramic powder synthesis.

PubMed

Muñoz, Mariana; Goutier, Simon; Foucaud, Sylvie; Mariaux, Gilles; Poirier, Thierry

2018-03-01

Spray pyrolysis process has been used for the synthesis of non-oxide ceramic powders from liquid precursors in the Si/C/N system. Particles with a high thermal stability and with variable composition and size distribution have been obtained. In this process, the mechanisms involved in precursor decomposition and gas phase recombination of species are still unknown. The final aim of this work consists in improving the whole process comprehension by an experimental/modelling approach that helps to connect the synthesized particles characteristics to the precursor properties and process operating parameters. It includes the following steps: aerosol formation by a piezoelectric nebulizer, its transport and the chemical-physical phenomena involved in the reaction processes. This paper focuses on the aerosol characterization to understand the relationship between the liquid precursor properties and the liquid droplet diameter distribution. Liquids with properties close to the precursor of interest (hexamethyldisilazane) have been used. Experiments have been performed using a shadowgraphy technique to determine the drop size distribution of the aerosol. For all operating parameters of the nebulizer device and liquids used, bimodal droplet size distributions have been obtained. Correlations proposed in the literature for the droplet size prediction by ultrasonic nebulization were used and adapted to the specific nebulizer device used in this study, showing rather good agreement with experimental values. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Short-term effect of a smart nebulizing device on adherence to inhaled corticosteroid therapy in Asthma Predictive Index-positive wheezing children.

PubMed

Zhou, Yuan; Lu, Yanming; Zhu, Haojin; Zhang, Yanhan; Li, Yaqin; Yu, Qing

2018-01-01

To explore the effect of a smart nebulizing device on the rate of adherence to inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) in children with positive Asthma Predictive Index. In total, 65 children with positive Asthma Predictive Index and under the age of 5 years who visited our hospital from October 2015 through October 2016, were randomly assigned to receive conventional nebulization or smart nebulization. The smart nebulizer was connected to smart phones via an App. The following information was collected: rate of adherence to ICS, frequency of emergency visits or hospitalizations, application of antibiotics or oral steroids, and wheezing progression or improvement. The rate of adherence to ICS was 86.67% (26/30), 76.67% (23/30), and 67.33% (20/30) in the smart nebulization group, and 62.86% (22/35), 51.42% (18/35), and 40.00% (14/35) in the conventional nebulization group after 4-, 8-, and 12-week therapy, respectively. There were significant differences between the 2 groups at all of the time points ( P <0.05). Both day- and night-time wheezing scores were significantly lower in the smart nebulization group than those of the conventional nebulization group after 4-, 8-, and 12-week therapy ( P <0.05). The frequency of emergency visits, comorbidity of respiratory infection, antibiotics or systemic steroid usage, and therapeutic cost for additional treatment during the 12-week study period, was significantly lower in the smart nebulization group than that in the conventional nebulization group ( P <0.05). A smart electronic nebulization device could significantly improve the rate of adherence to ICS in children under the age of 5 years, and thus could significantly reduce the frequency of emergency visits and respiratory infections as well as the usage of antibiotics or systemic steroids.

Heated air humidification versus cold air nebulization in newly tracheostomized patients.

PubMed

Birk, Richard; Händel, Alexander; Wenzel, Angela; Kramer, Benedikt; Aderhold, Christoph; Hörmann, Karl; Stuck, Boris A; Sommer, J Ulrich

2017-12-01

After tracheostomy, the airway lacks an essential mechanism for warming and humidifying the inspired air with the consequent functional impairment and discomfort. The purpose of this study was to compare airway hydration with cold-air nebulization versus heated high-flow humidification on medical interventions and tracheal ciliary beat frequency (CBF). Newly tracheostomized patients (n = 20) were treated either with cold-air nebulization or heated humidification. The number of required tracheal suctioning procedures to clean the trachea and tracheal CBF were assessed. The number of required suctions per day was significantly lower in the heated humidification group with medians 3 versus 5 times per day. Mean CBF was significantly higher in the heated humidification group (6.36 ± 1.49 Hz) compared to the cold-air nebulization group (3.99 ± 1.39 Hz). The data suggest that heated humidification enhanced mucociliary transport leading to a reduced number of required suctioning procedures in the trachea, which may improve postoperative patient care. © 2017 The Authors Head & Neck Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

An evaluation of different steam disinfection protocols for cystic fibrosis nebulizers.

PubMed

Hohenwarter, K; Prammer, W; Aichinger, W; Reychler, G

2016-01-01

Contamination is a key element in cystic fibrosis. For this reason, nebulizer hygiene is an important, but complex and time-consuming task for cystic fibrosis patients. The aim of this study was to compare different steam disinfection and drying protocols. One hundred nebulizer parts were inoculated with cystic fibrosis-related bacteria in high concentrations (Burkholderia multivorans 3.9 × 10(10)/ml, Staphylococcus aureus 8.9 × 10(8/)ml and Pseudomonas aeruginosa 2.1 × 10(9)/ml). Tubes with Mycobacterium abscessus complex were additionally tested. Six steam disinfectors were compared. Different methods of drying were examined. All tested bacteria were efficiently killed by the different steam disinfectors tested. The risk of contamination depended on the method of drying. Steam disinfection is a safe disinfection method. It is better to leave the nebulizers wet after steam disinfection than to manipulate them by active drying, which seems to be a source of recontamination. Copyright © 2015 European Cystic Fibrosis Society. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Magnetic core-shell nanoparticles for drug delivery by nebulization.

PubMed

Verma, Navin Kumar; Crosbie-Staunton, Kieran; Satti, Amro; Gallagher, Shane; Ryan, Katie B; Doody, Timothy; McAtamney, Colm; MacLoughlin, Ronan; Galvin, Paul; Burke, Conor S; Volkov, Yuri; Gun'ko, Yurii K

2013-01-23

Aerosolized therapeutics hold great potential for effective treatment of various diseases including lung cancer. In this context, there is an urgent need to develop novel nanocarriers suitable for drug delivery by nebulization. To address this need, we synthesized and characterized a biocompatible drug delivery vehicle following surface coating of Fe3O4 magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) with a polymer poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA). The polymeric shell of these engineered nanoparticles was loaded with a potential anti-cancer drug quercetin and their suitability for targeting lung cancer cells via nebulization was evaluated. Average particle size of the developed MNPs and PLGA-MNPs as measured by electron microscopy was 9.6 and 53.2 nm, whereas their hydrodynamic swelling as determined using dynamic light scattering was 54.3 nm and 293.4 nm respectively. Utilizing a series of standardized biological tests incorporating a cell-based automated image acquisition and analysis procedure in combination with real-time impedance sensing, we confirmed that the developed MNP-based nanocarrier system was biocompatible, as no cytotoxicity was observed when up to 100 μg/ml PLGA-MNP was applied to the cultured human lung epithelial cells. Moreover, the PLGA-MNP preparation was well-tolerated in vivo in mice when applied intranasally as measured by glutathione and IL-6 secretion assays after 1, 4, or 7 days post-treatment. To imitate aerosol formation for drug delivery to the lungs, we applied quercitin loaded PLGA-MNPs to the human lung carcinoma cell line A549 following a single round of nebulization. The drug-loaded PLGA-MNPs significantly reduced the number of viable A549 cells, which was comparable when applied either by nebulization or by direct pipetting. We have developed a magnetic core-shell nanoparticle-based nanocarrier system and evaluated the feasibility of its drug delivery capability via aerosol administration. This study has implications for targeted delivery

Nebulized hyaluronan ameliorates lung inflammation in cystic fibrosis mice.

PubMed

Gavina, Manuela; Luciani, Alessandro; Villella, Valeria R; Esposito, Speranza; Ferrari, Eleonora; Bressani, Ilaria; Casale, Alida; Bruscia, Emanuela M; Maiuri, Luigi; Raia, Valeria

2013-08-01

Chronic lung inflammation with increased susceptibility to bacterial infections cause much of the morbidity and mortality in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF), the most common severe, autosomal recessively inherited disease in the Caucasian population. Exogenous inhaled hyaluronan (HA) can exert a protective effect against injury and beneficial effects of HA have been shown in experimental models of chronic respiratory diseases. Our objective was to examine whether exogenous administration of nebulized HA might interfere with lung inflammation in CF. F508del homozygous mice (Cftr(F508del) ) and transgenic mice overexpressing the ENaC channel β-subunit (Scnn1b-Tg) were treated with nebulized HA (0.5 mg/mouse/day for 7 days). Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNFα), macrophage inflammatory protein-2 (MIP-2), myeloperoxidase (MPO) levels, and macrophage infiltration were assessed on lung tissues. IB3-1 and CFBE41o-epithelial cell lines were cultured with HA (24 hr, 100 µg/ml) and Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS), Tissue Transglutaminase (TG2) SUMOylation and Peroxisome Proliferator Activated Receptor gamma (PPARγ) and phospho-p42/p44 levels were measured by dichlorodihydrofluorescein assay, or fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) microscopy or immunoblots. Nebulized HA reduced TNFα expression (P < 0.005); TNFα, MIP-2, and MPO protein levels (P < 0.05); MPO activity (P < 0.05); and CD68+ cells counts (P < 0.005) in lung tissues of Cftr(F508del) and Scnn1b-Tg mice, compared with saline-treated mice. HA reduced ROS, TG2 SUMOylation, TG2 activity, phospho-p42-44, and increased PPARγ protein in both IB3-1 and CFBE41o cells (P < 0.05). Nebulized HA is effective in controlling inflammation in vivo in mice CF airways and in vitro in human airway epithelial cells. We provide the proof of concept for the use of inhaled HA as a potential anti-inflammatory drug in CF therapy. Copyright © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Magnetic core-shell nanoparticles for drug delivery by nebulization

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Background Aerosolized therapeutics hold great potential for effective treatment of various diseases including lung cancer. In this context, there is an urgent need to develop novel nanocarriers suitable for drug delivery by nebulization. To address this need, we synthesized and characterized a biocompatible drug delivery vehicle following surface coating of Fe3O4 magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) with a polymer poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA). The polymeric shell of these engineered nanoparticles was loaded with a potential anti-cancer drug quercetin and their suitability for targeting lung cancer cells via nebulization was evaluated. Results Average particle size of the developed MNPs and PLGA-MNPs as measured by electron microscopy was 9.6 and 53.2 nm, whereas their hydrodynamic swelling as determined using dynamic light scattering was 54.3 nm and 293.4 nm respectively. Utilizing a series of standardized biological tests incorporating a cell-based automated image acquisition and analysis procedure in combination with real-time impedance sensing, we confirmed that the developed MNP-based nanocarrier system was biocompatible, as no cytotoxicity was observed when up to 100 μg/ml PLGA-MNP was applied to the cultured human lung epithelial cells. Moreover, the PLGA-MNP preparation was well-tolerated in vivo in mice when applied intranasally as measured by glutathione and IL-6 secretion assays after 1, 4, or 7 days post-treatment. To imitate aerosol formation for drug delivery to the lungs, we applied quercitin loaded PLGA-MNPs to the human lung carcinoma cell line A549 following a single round of nebulization. The drug-loaded PLGA-MNPs significantly reduced the number of viable A549 cells, which was comparable when applied either by nebulization or by direct pipetting. Conclusion We have developed a magnetic core-shell nanoparticle-based nanocarrier system and evaluated the feasibility of its drug delivery capability via aerosol administration. This study has

Accurate assessment of adherence: self-report and clinician report vs electronic monitoring of nebulizers.

PubMed

Daniels, Tracey; Goodacre, Lynne; Sutton, Chris; Pollard, Kim; Conway, Steven; Peckham, Daniel

2011-08-01

People with cystic fibrosis have a high treatment burden. While uncertainty remains about individual patient level of adherence to medication, treatment regimens are difficult to tailor, and interventions are difficult to evaluate. Self- and clinician-reported measures are routinely used despite criticism that they overestimate adherence. This study assessed agreement between rates of adherence to prescribed nebulizer treatments when measured by self-report, clinician report, and electronic monitoring suitable for long-term use. Seventy-eight adults with cystic fibrosis were questioned about their adherence to prescribed nebulizer treatments over the previous 3 months. Self-report was compared with clinician report and stored adherence data downloaded from the I-Neb nebulizer system. Adherence measures were expressed as a percentage of the prescribed regimen, bias was estimated by the paired difference in mean (95% CI) patient and clinician reported and actual adherence. Agreement between adherence measures was calculated using intraclass correlation coefficients (95% CI), and disagreements for individuals were displayed using Bland-Altman plots. Patient-identified prescriptions matched the medical record prescription. Median self-reported adherence was 80% (interquartile range, 60%-95%), whereas median adherence measured by nebulizer download was 36% (interquartile range, 5%-84.5%). Nine participants overmedicated and underreported adherence. Median clinician report ranged from 50% to 60%, depending on profession. Extensive discrepancies between self-report and clinician report compared with nebulizer download were identified for individuals. Self- and clinician-reporting of adherence does not provide accurate measurement of adherence when compared with electronic monitoring. Using inaccurate measures has implications for treatment burden, clinician prescribing practices, cost, and accuracy of trial data.

Laboratory Study Comparing Pharmacopeial Testing of Nebulizers with Evaluation Based on Nephele Mixing Inlet Methodology.

PubMed

Svensson, Mårten; Berg, Elna; Mitchell, Jolyon; Sandell, Dennis

2018-02-01

Determination of fine droplet dose with preparations for nebulization, currently deemed to be the metric most indicative of lung deposition and thus in vivo responses, involves combining two procedures following practice as described in the United States Pharmacopeia and the European Pharmacopeia. Delivered dose (DD) is established by simulating tidal breathing at the nebulizer, collecting the medication on a filter downstream of the nebulizer mouthpiece/facemask. Fine droplet fraction (FDF nebulizer to the continuously varying flow profile associated with breath simulation. The study purpose was to investigate the feasibility of this approach, termed mixing inlet lung simulation (MILS), for direct determination of FDD nebulizers, but 5 μm was chosen since this limit is the European norm when testing other inhalation products. Vibrating membrane nebulizers (eFlow® Rapid) were used to deliver aqueous salbutamol sulfate, simulating an adult tidal-breathing pattern (inspiratory to expiratory ratio = 1:1, tidal volume = 500 mL, 15 breaths per minute, peak inspiratory flow rate = 24 L/min). The two procedures were inequivalent, as FDD <5 μm by the MILS approach was 72% of that obtained using the compendial "combination" method. Since the MILS methodology more closely mimics clinical use, we infer that the compendial approach likely overestimates the dose reaching the human lung.

Induced tolerance to nebulized colistin after severe reaction to the drug.

PubMed

Domínguez-Ortega, J; Manteiga, E; Abad-Schilling, C; Juretzcke, M A; Sánchez-Rubio, J; Kindelan, C

2007-01-01

Daily nebulized colistin therapy has been used as maintenance therapy for patients with chronic Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection and in treatment protocols aimed at eradicating early P aeruginosa infection. Colistin-induced nephrotoxicity and mild neurotoxic effects have been described but hypersensitivity reactions are rare. However, bronchial constriction has been reported associated with the inhalation of the antibiotic. We report the case of a 63-year-old man who had been diagnosed with bronchiectasis and bronchopleural fistula and who developed severe bronchospasm when using nebulized colistin. A skin prick test (80 mg/mL) with colistin was performed and was negative. An intradermal test was not performed due to its possible irritant effect. As our patient suffered from a tobramycin-resistant P aeruginosa infection, we started a procedure to induce tolerance to 80 mg colistin (8 mg, 16 mg, 24 mg, 32 mg, 40 mg, 80 mg) nebulized in 30-minutes-intervals. No changes in forced expiratory volume in 1 second values were observed and the patient continues on treatment twice daily after the tolerance induction with no new episodes of bronchospasm. We report the first successful procedure to induce tolerance to colistin after escalating doses of inhaled colistin.

Characterization of nebulized liposomal amikacin (Arikace) as a function of droplet size.

PubMed

Li, Zhili; Zhang, Yanling; Wurtz, William; Lee, Jin K; Malinin, Vladimir S; Durwas-Krishnan, Sripriya; Meers, Paul; Perkins, Walter R

2008-09-01

The stress of nebulization has been shown to alter the properties of liposomal drugs. What has not been demonstrated is whether nebulized liposomes differ as a function of droplet size. Because droplet size influences lung deposition, liposomes with different properties could be deposited in different areas of the lung (e.g., central vs. peripheral). In this report, a liposomal amikacin formulation (Arikace, a registered trademark of Transave, Inc., Monmouth Junction, NJ) that is being developed as an inhaled treatment for gram negative infections was aerosolized with an eFlow (registered trademark of PARI, GmbH, Munich, Germany) nebulizer, reclaimed from the various stages of an Andersen cascade impactor (ACI) and analyzed for lipid-to-drug (L/D) (w/w) ratio, amikacin retention, and liposome size. For the nebulized solution, 99.7% of the total deposited drug was found on ACI stages 0 through 5, which have cutoff diameters of 9, 5.8, 4.7, 3.3, 2.1, and 1.1 microm, respectively. Properties were found to differ for drug reclaimed on stage 0 compared stages 1-5, which were not different from one another. For drug found on stages 1-5 (97% of total drug), the averages (n = 3) for L/D, percent encapsulated amikacin, and liposome mean diameter ranged from 0.59 to 0.68 (w/w), 71% to 75%, 248 to 282 nm, respectively. Drug found on stage 0 (2.8% of total drug) had an average L/D ratio of 0.51 and average liposome mean diameter of 375 nm. Examination of another batch of liposomal amikacin revealed no statistically significant differences between drug reclaimed on stages 0-5. Although a droplet size dependence was noted for one batch of Arikace aerosolized with the eFlow, the effect was considered to be inconsequential because the fraction in doubt represented nonrespirable particles >9 microm and accounted for <3% of the total deposited dose. The methodology applied here appears useful in evaluating aerosolized liposome systems. However, our results should not be assumed to

Characterization of aerosols containing Legionella generated upon nebulization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Allegra, Séverine; Leclerc, Lara; Massard, Pierre André; Girardot, Françoise; Riffard, Serge; Pourchez, Jérémie

2016-09-01

Legionella pneumophila is, by far, the species most frequently associated with Legionnaires’ disease (LD). Human infection occurs almost exclusively by aerosol inhalation which places the bacteria in juxtaposition with alveolar macrophages. LD risk management is based on controlling water quality by applying standardized procedures. However, to gain a better understanding of the real risk of exposure, there is a need (i) to investigate under which conditions Legionella may be aerosolized and (ii) to quantify bacterial deposition into the respiratory tract upon nebulization. In this study, we used an original experimental set-up that enables the generation of aerosol particles containing L. pneumophila under various conditions. Using flow cytometry in combination with qPCR and culture, we determined (i) the size of the aerosols and (ii) the concentration of viable Legionella forms that may reach the thoracic region. We determined that the 0.26-2.5 μm aerosol size range represents 7% of initial bacterial suspension. Among the viable forms, 0.7% of initial viable bacterial suspension may reach the pulmonary alveoli. In conclusion, these deposition profiles can be used to standardize the size of inoculum injected in any type of respiratory tract model to obtain new insights into the dose response for LD.

Promoting adherence to nebulized therapy in cystic fibrosis: poster development and a qualitative exploration of adherence.

PubMed

Jones, Stephen; Babiker, Nathan; Gardner, Emma; Royle, Jane; Curley, Rachael; Hoo, Zhe Hui; Wildman, Martin J

2015-01-01

Cystic fibrosis (CF) health care professionals recognize the need to motivate people with CF to adhere to nebulizer treatments, yet little is known about how best to achieve this. We aimed to produce motivational posters to support nebulizer adherence by using social marketing involving people with CF in the development of those posters. The Sheffield CF multidisciplinary team produced preliminary ideas that were elaborated upon with semi-structured interviews among people with CF to explore barriers and facilitators to the use of nebulized therapy. Initial themes and poster designs were refined using an online focus group to finalize the poster designs. People with CF preferred aspirational posters describing what could be achieved through adherence in contrast to posters that highlighted the adverse consequences of nonadherence. A total of 14 posters were produced through this process. People with CF can be engaged to develop promotional material to support adherence, providing a unique perspective differing from that of the CF multidisciplinary team. Further research is needed to evaluate the effectiveness of these posters to support nebulizer adherence.

Promoting adherence to nebulized therapy in cystic fibrosis: poster development and a qualitative exploration of adherence

PubMed Central

Jones, Stephen; Babiker, Nathan; Gardner, Emma; Royle, Jane; Curley, Rachael; Hoo, Zhe Hui; Wildman, Martin J

2015-01-01

Background Cystic fibrosis (CF) health care professionals recognize the need to motivate people with CF to adhere to nebulizer treatments, yet little is known about how best to achieve this. We aimed to produce motivational posters to support nebulizer adherence by using social marketing involving people with CF in the development of those posters. Methods The Sheffield CF multidisciplinary team produced preliminary ideas that were elaborated upon with semi-structured interviews among people with CF to explore barriers and facilitators to the use of nebulized therapy. Initial themes and poster designs were refined using an online focus group to finalize the poster designs. Results People with CF preferred aspirational posters describing what could be achieved through adherence in contrast to posters that highlighted the adverse consequences of nonadherence. A total of 14 posters were produced through this process. Conclusion People with CF can be engaged to develop promotional material to support adherence, providing a unique perspective differing from that of the CF multidisciplinary team. Further research is needed to evaluate the effectiveness of these posters to support nebulizer adherence. PMID:26346635

Adaption of a parallel-path poly(tetrafluoroethylene) nebulizer to an evaporative light scattering detector: Optimization and application to studies of poly(dimethylsiloxane) oligomers as a model polymer.

PubMed

Durner, Bernhard; Ehmann, Thomas; Matysik, Frank-Michael

2018-06-05

The adaption of an parallel-path poly(tetrafluoroethylene)(PTFE) ICP-nebulizer to an evaporative light scattering detector (ELSD) was realized. This was done by substituting the originally installed concentric glass nebulizer of the ELSD. The performance of both nebulizers was compared regarding nebulizer temperature, evaporator temperature, flow rate of nebulizing gas and flow rate of mobile phase of different solvents using caffeine and poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS) as analytes. Both nebulizers showed similar performances but for the parallel-path PTFE nebulizer the performance was considerably better at low LC flow rates and the nebulizer lifetime was substantially increased. In general, for both nebulizers the highest sensitivity was obtained by applying the lowest possible evaporator temperature in combination with the highest possible nebulizer temperature at preferably low gas flow rates. Besides the optimization of detector parameters, response factors for various PDMS oligomers were determined and the dependency of the detector signal on molar mass of the analytes was studied. The significant improvement regarding long-term stability made the modified ELSD much more robust and saved time and money by reducing the maintenance efforts. Thus, especially in polymer HPLC, associated with a complex matrix situation, the PTFE-based parallel-path nebulizer exhibits attractive characteristics for analytical studies of polymers. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier B.V.

A preliminary study of painless and effective transdermal botulinum toxin A delivery by jet nebulization for treatment of primary hyperhidrosis.

PubMed

Iannitti, Tommaso; Palmieri, Beniamino; Aspiro, Anna; Di Cerbo, Alessandro

2014-01-01

Hyperhidrosis is a chronic disease characterized by increased sweat production. Local injections of botulinum toxin A (BTX-A) have been extensively used for treatment of primary hyperhidrosis (idiopathic). The current treatment for this condition involves several intradermal injections, resulting in poor patient compliance due to injection-related pain. Therefore, new protocols, including an improved anesthetic regimen, are required. We designed the present study to determine whether JetPeel™-3, a medical device used for transdermal delivery of drugs by jet nebulization, could be used to deliver lidocaine prior to the standard multiple BTX-A injections or deliver lidocaine together with BTX-A in order to determine the protocol giving better results in terms of procedure-related pain, sweating, and patient satisfaction in subjects affected by primary axillary, palmar or plantar hyperhidrosis. Twenty patients with a visual analog scale (VAS) sweating score ≥ 8 cm were randomized to receive lidocaine 2% (5 mL) delivered by JetPeel™-3 followed by multiple injections of BTX-A (100 units) or lidocaine 2% (5 mL) and BTX-A (50 units) delivered together by JetPeel™-3. Effect of treatment on sweating was measured by VAS (0= minimum sweating; 10= maximum sweating) at 3-month follow-up. Pain induced by the procedure was assessed by VAS (0= minimum pain; 10= maximum pain) immediately after the procedure. Patient satisfaction was assessed at 3-month follow-up using a 5-point scale (1= not at all satisfied; 2= not satisfied; 3= partially satisfied; 4= satisfied; 5= highly satisfied). Both treatment modalities reduced sweating at 3-month follow-up, if compared with baseline (all P<0.001). Delivery of lidocaine and BTX-A by JetPeel™-3 resulted in lower procedure-related pain and reduced sweating, if compared with lidocaine delivered by JetPeel™-3 followed by multiple BTX-A injections (all P<0.001). Patient satisfaction with the procedure was higher in the group

A preliminary study of painless and effective transdermal botulinum toxin A delivery by jet nebulization for treatment of primary hyperhidrosis

PubMed Central

Iannitti, Tommaso; Palmieri, Beniamino; Aspiro, Anna; Di Cerbo, Alessandro

2014-01-01

Background Hyperhidrosis is a chronic disease characterized by increased sweat production. Local injections of botulinum toxin A (BTX-A) have been extensively used for treatment of primary hyperhidrosis (idiopathic). The current treatment for this condition involves several intradermal injections, resulting in poor patient compliance due to injection-related pain. Therefore, new protocols, including an improved anesthetic regimen, are required. Aim We designed the present study to determine whether JetPeel™-3, a medical device used for transdermal delivery of drugs by jet nebulization, could be used to deliver lidocaine prior to the standard multiple BTX-A injections or deliver lidocaine together with BTX-A in order to determine the protocol giving better results in terms of procedure-related pain, sweating, and patient satisfaction in subjects affected by primary axillary, palmar or plantar hyperhidrosis. Materials and methods Twenty patients with a visual analog scale (VAS) sweating score ≥ 8 cm were randomized to receive lidocaine 2% (5 mL) delivered by JetPeel™-3 followed by multiple injections of BTX-A (100 units) or lidocaine 2% (5 mL) and BTX-A (50 units) delivered together by JetPeel™-3. Effect of treatment on sweating was measured by VAS (0= minimum sweating; 10= maximum sweating) at 3-month follow-up. Pain induced by the procedure was assessed by VAS (0= minimum pain; 10= maximum pain) immediately after the procedure. Patient satisfaction was assessed at 3-month follow-up using a 5-point scale (1= not at all satisfied; 2= not satisfied; 3= partially satisfied; 4= satisfied; 5= highly satisfied). Results Both treatment modalities reduced sweating at 3-month follow-up, if compared with baseline (all P<0.001). Delivery of lidocaine and BTX-A by JetPeel™-3 resulted in lower procedure-related pain and reduced sweating, if compared with lidocaine delivered by JetPeel™-3 followed by multiple BTX-A injections (all P<0.001). Patient satisfaction with

Effect of magnesium sulfate nebulization on the incidence of postoperative sore throat.

PubMed

Yadav, Monu; Chalumuru, Nitish; Gopinath, Ramachandran

2016-01-01

Postoperative sore throat (POST) is a well-recognized complication after general anesthesia (GA). Numerous nonpharmacological and pharmacological measures have been used for attenuating POST with variable success. The present study was conducted to compare the efficiency of preoperative nebulization of normal saline and magnesium sulfate in reducing the incidence of POST following GA. Following institutional ethical committee approval and written informed consent, a prospective randomized double-blinded study was conducted in 100 cases divided into two equal groups. Patients included in the study were of either gender belonging to American Society of Anesthesiologist (ASA) status 1 or 2 undergoing elective surgery of approximately 2 h or more duration requiring tracheal intubation. Patients in Group A are nebulized with 3 ml of normal saline and the patients in Group B are nebulized with 3 ml of 225 mg isotonic nebulized magnesium sulfate for 15 min, 5 min before induction of anesthesia. The incidence of POST at rest and on swallowing and any undue complaints at 0, 2, 4, and 24 h in the postoperative period are evaluated. There is no significant difference in POST at rest during 0(th), 2(nd) and 4(th) h between normal saline and MgSO4. Significant difference is seen at 24(th) h, where MgSO4 lessens POST. There is no significant difference in POST on swallowing during 0(th) and 2(nd) h between normal saline and MgSO4. Significant difference is seen at 4(th) h, where MgSO4 has been shown to lessen POST. MgSO4 significantly reduces the incidence of POST compared to normal saline.

Advantages and pitfalls of combining intravenous antithrombin with nebulized heparin and tissue plasminogen activator in acute respiratory distress syndrome.

PubMed

Rehberg, Sebastian; Yamamoto, Yusuke; Sousse, Linda E; Jonkam, Collette; Cox, Robert A; Prough, Donald S; Enkhbaatar, Perenlei

2014-01-01

Pulmonary coagulopathy has become an important therapeutic target in adult respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). We hypothesized that combining intravenous recombinant human antithrombin (rhAT), nebulized heparin, and nebulized tissue plasminogen activator (TPA) more effectively improves pulmonary gas exchange compared with a single rhAT infusion, while maintaining the anti-inflammatory properties of rhAT in ARDS. Therefore, the present prospective, randomized experiment was conducted using an established ovine model. Following burn and smoke inhalation injury (40% of total body surface area, third-degree flame burn, and 4 × 12 breaths of cold cotton smoke), 18 chronically instrumented sheep were randomly assigned to receive intravenous saline plus saline nebulization (control), intravenous rhAT (6 IU/kg/h) started 1 hour after injury plus saline nebulization (AT i.v.) or intravenous rhAT combined with nebulized heparin (10,000 IU every 4 hours, started 2 hours after injury), and nebulized TPA (2 mg every 4 hours, started 4 hours after injury) (triple therapy, n = 6 each). All animals were mechanically ventilated and fluid resuscitated according to standard protocols during the 48-hour study period. Both treatment approaches attenuated ARDS compared with control animals. Notably, triple therapy was associated with an improved PaO2/FiO2 ratio (p = 0.007), attenuated pulmonary obstruction (p = 0.02) and shunting (p = 0.025), as well as reduced ventilatory pressures (p < 0.05 each) versus AT i.v. at 48 hours. However, the anti-inflammatory effects of sole AT i.v., namely, the inhibition of neutrophil activation (neutrophil count in the lymph and pulmonary polymorphonuclear cells, p < 0.05 vs. control each), pulmonary transvascular fluid flux (lymph flow, p = 0.004 vs. control), and systemic vascular leakage (cumulative net fluid balance, p < 0.001 vs. control), were abolished in the triple therapy group. Combining intravenous rhAT with nebulized heparin and nebulized

Nebulization of Antiinfective Agents in Invasively Mechanically Ventilated Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

PubMed

Solé-Lleonart, Candela; Rouby, Jean-Jacques; Blot, Stijn; Poulakou, Garyfallia; Chastre, Jean; Palmer, Lucy B; Bassetti, Matteo; Luyt, Charles-Edouard; Pereira, Jose M; Riera, Jordi; Felton, Tim; Dhanani, Jayesh; Welte, Tobias; Garcia-Alamino, Jose M; Roberts, Jason A; Rello, Jordi

2017-05-01

Nebulization of antiinfective agents is a common but unstandardized practice in critically ill patients. A systematic review of 1,435 studies was performed in adults receiving invasive mechanical ventilation. Two different administration strategies (adjunctive and substitute) were considered clinically relevant. Inclusion was restricted to studies using jet, ultrasonic, and vibrating-mesh nebulizers. Studies involving children, colonized-but-not-infected adults, and cystic fibrosis patients were excluded. Five of the 11 studies included had a small sample size (fewer than 50 patients), and only 6 were randomized. Diversity of case-mix, dosage, and devices are sources of bias. Only a few patients had severe hypoxemia. Aminoglycosides and colistin were the most common antibiotics, being safe regarding nephrotoxicity and neurotoxicity, but increased respiratory complications in 9% (95% CI, 0.01 to 0.18; I = 52%), particularly when administered to hypoxemic patients. For tracheobronchitis, a significant decrease in emergence of resistance was evidenced (risk ratio, 0.18; 95% CI, 0.05 to 0.64; I = 0%). Similar findings were observed in pneumonia by susceptible pathogens, without improvement in mortality or ventilation duration. In pneumonia caused by resistant pathogens, higher clinical resolution (odds ratio, 1.96; 95% CI, 1.30 to 2.96; I = 0%) was evidenced. These findings were not consistently evidenced in the assessment of efficacy against pneumonia caused by susceptible pathogens. Performance of randomized trials evaluating the impact of nebulized antibiotics with more homogeneous populations, standardized drug delivery, predetermined clinical efficacy, and safety outcomes is urgently required. Infections by resistant pathogens might potentially have higher benefit from nebulized antiinfective agents. Nebulization, without concomitant systemic administration of the drug, may reduce nephrotoxicity but may also be associated with higher risk of respiratory

Nebulized voriconazole in infections with Scedosporium apiospermum--case report and review of the literature.

PubMed

Holle, J; Leichsenring, M; Meissner, P E

2014-07-01

Scedosporium infections are rare complications in immunocompromised patients or patients with chronic pulmonary disease. While Scedosporium prolificans is resistant to most antimycotics, Scedosporium apiospermum is usually sensitive to voriconazole and posaconazole. Pharmacokinetics and efficacy of nebulized voriconazole have been described in a murine model previously. We report for the first time the safe and effective use of nebulized voriconazole for the treatment of severe pulmonary infection with Scedosporium apiospermum in an adolescent with cystic fibrosis. Copyright © 2013 European Cystic Fibrosis Society. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Nebulized anticoagulants in lung injury in critically ill patients—an updated systematic review of preclinical and clinical studies

PubMed Central

Juschten, Jenny; Tuinman, Pieter R.; Juffermans, Nicole P.; Dixon, Barry; Levi, Marcel

2017-01-01

Pneumonia, inhalation trauma and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), typical causes of lung injury in critically ill patients, are all three characterized by dysregulated inflammation and coagulation in the lungs. Nebulized anticoagulants are thought to have beneficial effects as they could attenuate pulmonary coagulopathy and maybe even affect pulmonary inflammation. A systematic search of the medical literature was performed using terms referring to aspects of the condition (‘pneumonia’, ‘inhalation trauma’ and ‘ARDS’), the intervention (‘nebulized’, ‘vaporized’, and ‘aerosolized’) and anticoagulants limited to agents that are commercially available and frequently given or tested in critically ill patients [‘heparin’, ‘danaparoid’, ‘activated protein C’ (APC), ‘antithrombin’ (AT) and ‘tissue factor pathway inhibitor’ (TFPI)]. The systematic search identified 16 articles reporting on preclinical studies and 11 articles reporting on human trials. All nebulized anticoagulants attenuate pulmonary coagulopathy in preclinical studies using various models for lung injury, but the effects on inflammation are less consistent. Nebulized heparin, danaparoid and TFPI, but not APC and AT also reduced systemic coagulation. Nebulized heparin in lung injury patients shows contradictory results, and there is concern over systemic side effects of this strategy. Future studies need to focus on the way to nebulize anticoagulants, as well as on efficient but safe dosages, and other side effects. PMID:29264361

Effects of Nebulizer Position, Gas Flow, and CPAP on Aerosol Bronchodilator Delivery: An In Vitro Study.

PubMed

Ball, Lorenzo; Sutherasan, Yuda; Caratto, Valentina; Sanguineti, Elisa; Marsili, Maria; Raimondo, Pasquale; Ferretti, Maurizio; Kacmarek, Robert M; Pelosi, Paolo

2016-03-01

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of different delivery circuit configurations, nebulizer positions, CPAP levels, and gas flow on the amount of aerosol bronchodilator delivered during simulated spontaneous breathing in an in vitro model. A pneumatic lung simulator was connected to 5 different circuits for aerosol delivery, 2 delivering CPAP through a high-flow generator tested at 30, 60, and 90 L/min supplementary flow and 5, 10, and 15 cm H2O CPAP and 3 with no CPAP: a T-piece configuration with one extremity closed with a cap, a T-piece configuration without cap and nebulizer positioned proximally, and a T-piece configuration without cap and nebulizer positioned distally. Albuterol was collected with a filter, and the percentage amount delivered was measured by infrared spectrophotometry. Configurations with continuous high-flow CPAP delivered higher percentage amounts of albuterol compared with the configurations without CPAP (9.1 ± 6.0% vs 6.2 ± 2.8%, P = .03). Among configurations without CPAP, the best performance was obtained with a T-piece with one extremity closed with a cap. In CPAP configurations, the highest delivery (13.8 ± 4.4%) was obtained with the nebulizer placed proximal to the lung simulator, independent of flow. CPAP at 15 cm H2O resulted in the highest albuterol delivery (P = .02). Based on our in vitro study, without CPAP, a T-piece with a cap at one extremity maximizes albuterol delivery. During high-flow CPAP, the nebulizer should always be placed proximal to the patient, after the T-piece, using the highest CPAP clinically indicated. Copyright © 2016 by Daedalus Enterprises.

History of aerosol therapy: liquid nebulization to MDIs to DPIs.

PubMed

Anderson, Paula J

2005-09-01

Inhaled therapies have been used since ancient times and may have had their origins with the smoking of datura preparations in India 4,000 years ago. In the late 18th and in the 19th century, earthenware inhalers were popular for the inhalation of air drawn through infusions of plants and other ingredients. Atomizers and nebulizers were developed in the mid-1800s in France and were thought to be an outgrowth of the perfume industry as well as a response to the fashion of inhaling thermal waters at spas. Around the turn of the 20th century, combustible powders and cigarettes containing stramonium were popular for asthma and other lung complaints. Following the discovery of the utility of epinephrine for treating asthma, hand-bulb nebulizers were developed, as well as early compressor nebulizers. The marketing of the first pressurized metered-dose inhaler for epinephrine and isoproterenol, by Riker Laboratories in 1956, was a milestone in the development of inhaled drugs. There have been remarkable advances in the technology of devices and formulations for inhaled drugs in the past 50 years. These have been influenced greatly by scientific developments in several areas: theoretical modeling and indirect measures of lung deposition, particle sizing techniques and in vitro deposition studies, scintigraphic deposition studies, pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, and the 1987 Montreal Protocol, which banned chlorofluorocarbon propellants. We are now in an era of rapid technologic progress in inhaled drug delivery and applications of aerosol science, with the use of the aerosolized route for drugs for systemic therapy and for gene replacement therapy, use of aerosolized antimicrobials and immunosuppressants, and interest in specific targeting of inhaled drugs.

Ultrasonic nebulization atmospheric pressure glow discharge - Preliminary study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Greda, Krzysztof; Jamroz, Piotr; Pohl, Pawel

2016-07-01

Atmospheric pressure glow microdischarge (μAPGD) generated between a small-sized He nozzle jet anode and a flowing liquid cathode was coupled with ultrasonic nebulization (USN) for analytical optical emission spectrometry (OES). The spatial distributions of the emitted spectra from the novel coupled USN-μAPGD system and the conventional μAPGD system were compared. In the μAPGD, the maxima of the intensity distribution profiles of the atomic emission lines Ca, Cd, In, K, Li, Mg, Mn, Na and Sr were observed in the near cathode region, whereas, in the case of the USN-μAPGD, they were shifted towards the anode. In the novel system, the intensities of the analytical lines of the studied metals were boosted from several to 35 times. As compared to the conventional μAPGD-OES with the introduction of analytes through the sputtering and/or the electrospray-like nebulization of the flowing liquid cathode solution, the proposed method with the USN introduction of analytes in the form of a dry aerosol provides improved detectability of the studied metals. The detection limits of metals achieved with the USN-μAPGD-OES method were in the range from 0.08 μg L- 1 for Li to 52 μg L- 1 for Mn.

Compatibility and osmolality of inhaled N-acetylcysteine nebulizing solution with fenoterol and ipratropium.

PubMed

Lee, Tzung-Yi; Chen, Chi-Ming; Lee, Chun-Nin; Chiang, Yi-Chun; Chen, Hsiang-Yin

2005-04-15

The compatibility, pH, and osmolality of N-acetylcysteine (NAC) nebulizing solution in the presence of ipratropium bromide or fenoterol hydrobromide were studied. Portions (400 microL) of each mixture were sampled immediately upon mixing and one, two, three, four, five, six, and seven hours after mixing and assayed by high-performance liquid chromatography. Osmolality was measured by sampling 100 microL from the filling cup at a five-minute interval during nebulization and by the freezing-point-depression method. Adding NAC solution to fenoterol solution raised the pH from 3.20 to 7.90 and the osmolality to a mean +/- S.D. of 1400.67 +/- 4.51 mOsm/kg. Fenoterol concentrations decreased to 93.71% and NAC concentrations to 92.54% of initial concentrations after seven hours. Mixing ipratropium with NAC solution raised the pH from 3.74 to 7.95 and the osmolality to a mean +/- S.D. of 1413 +/- 11.79 mOsm/kg. The initial ipratropium concentration declined 7.39% and 10.91% one and two hours after mixing with NAC solution, respectively. NAC and ipratropium were stable in nebulizing solution within one hour of mixing. NAC and fenoterol were compatible for at least seven hours.

Effect of mask dead space and occlusion of mask holes on delivery of nebulized albuterol.

PubMed

Berlinski, Ariel

2014-08-01

Infants and children with respiratory conditions are often prescribed bronchodilators. Face masks are used to facilitate the administration of nebulized therapy in patients unable to use a mouthpiece. Masks incorporate holes into their design, and their occlusion during aerosol delivery has been a common practice. Masks are available in different sizes and different dead volumes. The aim of this study was to compare the effect of different degrees of occlusion of the mask holes and different mask dead space on the amount of nebulized albuterol available at the mouth opening in a model of a spontaneously breathing child. A breathing simulator mimicking infant (tidal volume [VT] = 50 mL, breathing frequency = 30 breaths/min, inspiratory-expiratory ratio [I:E] = 1:3), child (VT = 155 mL, breathing frequency = 25 breaths/min, I:E = 1:2), and adult (VT = 500 mL, breathing frequency = 15 breaths/min, I:E = 1:2) breathing patterns was connected to a collection filter hidden behind a face plate. A pediatric size mask and an adult size mask connected to a continuous output jet nebulizer were sealed to the face plate. Three nebulizers were loaded with albuterol sulfate (2.5 mg/3 mL) and operated with 6 L/min compressed air for 5 min. Experiments were repeated with different degrees of occlusion (0%, 50%, and 90%). Albuterol was extracted from the filter and measured with a spectrophotometer at 276 nm. Occlusion of the holes in the large mask did not increase the amount of albuterol in any of the breathing patterns. The amount of albuterol captured at the mouth opening did not change when the small mask was switched to the large mask, except with the breathing pattern of a child, and when the holes in the mask were 50% occluded (P = .02). Neither decreasing the dead space of the mask nor occluding the mask holes increased the amount of nebulized albuterol captured at the mouth opening.

Individualized supervised resistance training during nebulization in adults with cystic fibrosis.

PubMed

Shaw, Ina; Kinsey, Janine E; Richards, Roxanne; Shaw, Brandon S

2016-01-01

Since dyspnea limits exercise adherence and intensity in cystic fibrosis (CF) patients, engaging in resistance training (RT), which causes less dyspnea than other exercise modalities, while using nebulizers could not only overcome this barrier, but also enhance long-term adaptations to treatment. The objective of this study was to examine the effects of RT during nebulization on spirometry, anthropometry, chest wall excursion, respiratory muscle strength and health-related quality of life (HRQOL). Fourteen male and female CF patients were assigned to a four-week, 20-minute, 5-day per week proof-of-concept RT group (RTG) (n=7) or non-exercising control group (CON) (n=7), with 3 CON patients later dropping out of the study. Patients performed whole body exercises for 3 sets of 10 reps using resistance bands, since such bands have previously demonstrated a greater effect on functional exercise capacity than conventional RT in lung patients. The RTG displayed significant (p≤0.05) increases in FEV 1 , FEV 1 /FVC, latissimusdorsi strength, pectoralis major clavicular portion strength, pectoralis major sternocostal portion strength and emotional and digestion HRQOL domains, while decreasing pectoralis minor strength on the left and social, body image and respiration HRQOL domains. This small scale proof-of-concept investigation demonstrates the multiple and simultaneous benefits of RT during nebulization in CF patients. The improvements in pulmonary measures are particularly promising especially since this study only made use of a four-week experimental period. This study provides an important alternative, time-saving treatment for the CF patient that does not add to the treatment burden of CF patients.

Variability in delivered dose and respirable delivered dose from nebulizers: are current regulatory testing guidelines sufficient to produce meaningful information?

PubMed

Hatley, Ross Hm; Byrne, Sarah M

2017-01-01

To improve convenience to patients, there have been advances in the operation of nebulizers, resulting in fast treatment times and less drug lost to the environment. However, limited attention has been paid to the effects of these developments on the delivered dose (DD) and respirable delivered dose (RDD). Published pharmacopoeia and ISO testing guidelines for adult-use testing utilize a single breathing pattern, which may not be sufficient to enable effective comparisons between the devices. The DD of 5 mg of salbutamol sulfate into adult breathing patterns with inhalation:exhalation (I:E) ratios between 1:1 and 1:4 was determined. Droplet size was determined by laser diffraction and RDD calculated. Nine different nebulizer brands with different modes of operation (conventional, venturi, breath-enhanced, mesh, and breath-activated) were tested. Between the non-breath-activated nebulizers, a 2.5-fold difference in DD (~750-1,900 µg salbutamol) was found; with RDD, there was a more than fourfold difference (~210-980 µg). With increasing time spent on exhalation, there were progressive reductions in DD and RDD, with the RDD at an I:E ratio of 1:4 being as little as 40% of the dose with the 1:1 I:E ratio. The DD and RDD from the breath-activated mesh nebulizer were independent of the I:E ratio, and for the breath-activated jet nebulizer, there was less than 20% change in RDD between the I:E ratios of 1:1 and 1:4. Comparing nebulizers using the I:E ratio recommended in the guidelines does not predict relative performance between the devices at other ratios. There was significant variance in DD or RDD between different brands of non-breath-activated nebulizer. In future, consideration should be given to revision of the test protocols included in the guidelines, to reflect more accurately the potential therapeutic dose that is delivered to a realistic spectrum of breathing patterns.

The Effects of Three Nebulized Osmotic Agents in the Dry Larynx

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Tanner, Kristine; Roy, Nelson; Merrill, Ray M.; Elstad, Mark

2007-01-01

Purpose: This investigation examined the effects of nebulized hypertonic saline, isotonic saline (IS), and sterile (hypotonic) water on phonation threshold pressure (PTP) and self-perceived phonatory effort (PPE) following a surface laryngeal dehydration challenge. Method: In a double-blind, randomized experimental trial, 60 vocally healthy women…

Formulation, Characterization and Pulmonary Deposition of Nebulized Celecoxib Encapsulated Nanostructured Lipid Carriers

PubMed Central

Patlolla, Ram R.; Chougule, Mahavir; Patel, Apurva R.; Jackson, Tanise; Tata, Prasad NV; Singh, Mandip

2010-01-01

The aim of the current study was to encapsulate celecoxib (Cxb) in the Nanostructured Lipid Carrier (Cxb-NLC) nanoparticles and evaluate the lung disposition of nanoparticles following nebulization in Balb/c mice. Cxb-NLC nanoparticles were prepared with Cxb, Compritol, Miglyol and sodium taurocholate using high-pressure homogenization. Cxb-NLC nanoparticles were characterized for physical and aerosol properties. In-vitro cytotoxicity studies were performed with A549 cells. The lung deposition and pharmacokinetic parameters of Cxb-NLC and Cxb solution (Cxb-Soln) formulations were determined using Inexpose™ system and Pari LC star jet nebulizer. The particle size and entrapment efficiency of Cxb-NLC formulation were 217 ± 20 nm and > 90%, respectively. The Cxb-NLC released the drug in controlled fashion, and in vitro aersolization of Cxb-NLC formulation showed FPF of 75.6 ± 4.6 %, MMAD of 1.6 ±0.13 μm and GSD of 1.2 ± 0.21. Cxb-NLC showed dose and time dependent cytotoxicity against A549 cells. Nebulization of Cxb-NLC demonstrated 4 fold higher AUCt/D in lung tissues compared to Cxb-Soln. The systemic clearance of Cxb-NLC was slower (0.93 L/h) compared to Cxb-Soln (20.03 L/h). Cxb encapsulated NLC were found to be stable and aerodynamic properties were within the respirable limits. Aerosolization of Cxb-NLC improved the Cxb pulmonary bioavailability compared to solution formulation which will potentially lead to better patient compliance with minimal dosing intervals. PMID:20153385

[Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis: Evaluation of a maintenance therapy with nebulized Ambisome®].

PubMed

Godet, C; Couturaud, F; Ragot, S; Laurent, F; Brun, A L; Bergeron, A; Cadranel, J

2017-05-01

Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA) affects 3-13% of patients with asthma. Its natural history includes possibly life-threatening exacerbations and evolution towards fixed obstructive ventilatory disorders or even irreversible lung fibrosis lesions. ABPA prognosis is directly associated with exacerbation control and the main objective of the treatment is to decrease their frequency and duration. Recommendations regarding dosage and duration of treatment are not very precise. The currently used combination of itraconazole and corticosteroid therapy has many limitations. The interests of a therapeutic strategy using nebulized liposomal amphotericin B (LAmB) are to heighten antifungal lung tissue concentration, to circumvent drug interactions and decrease the potential toxicity of systemic antifungal treatments. Finally, this association leads to improved eradication of Aspergillus, thereby limiting the risk of side effects and the emergence of treatment-resistant Aspergillus strains. This is a phase II, multicentre, randomized, single blind, controlled therapeutic study, with the objective of comparing the potential benefit on exacerbation control of a maintenance therapy by LAmB nebulization. The main objective of the study is to compare the incidence of severe clinical exacerbations in ABPA treatment, between a maintenance treatment strategy with nebulized LAmB and a conventional strategy without antifungal maintenance therapy. The results will guide practitioners in the management of ABPA treatments and help to define the place of aerosols of LAmB on "evidence base medicine" criteria. Copyright © 2017 SPLF. Published by Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

Collison nebulizer as a new soft ionization source for mass spectrometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pervukhin, V. V.; Sheven', D. G.; Kolomiets, Yu. N.

2016-08-01

We have proposed that a Collison-type nebulizer be used as an ionization source for mass spectrometry with ionization under atmospheric pressure. This source does not require the use of electric voltage, radioactive sources, heaters, or liquid pumps. It has been shown that the number of ions produced by the 63Ni radioactive source is three to four times larger than the number of ions produced by acoustic ionization sources. We have considered the possibility of using a Collison-type nebulizer in combination with a vortex focusing system as an ion source for extractive ionization of compounds under atmospheric pressure. The ionization of volatile substances in crossflows of a charged aerosol and an analyte (for model compounds of the amine class, viz., diethylaniline, triamylamine, and cocaine) has been investigated. It has been shown that the limit of detecting cocaine vapor by this method is on the level of 4.6 × 10-14 g/cm3.

Effects of Temperature and Humidity on Laser Diffraction Measurements to Jet Nebulizer and Comparison with NGI.

PubMed

Song, Xinghan; Hu, Junhua; Zhan, Shuyao; Zhang, Rui; Tan, Wen

2016-04-01

Laser diffraction (LD) and next generation impactor (NGI) are commonly used for the evaluation of inhaled drug formulations. In this study, the effect of temperature and humidity on the assessment of the nebulizer particle size distribution (PSD) by LD was investigated, and the consistency between NGI and LD measurements was evaluated. There was an increase in particle size with higher temperature or lower humidity. The particle population with a diameter less than 1 μm was significant at a temperature of 5°C or at relative humidity >90%; however, the same particle population became undetectable when temperature increased to 39°C or at relative humidity of 30-45%. The results of the NGI and LD measurements of aerosol generated from three types of jet nebulizers were compared. A poor correlation between the NGI and LD measurements was observed for PARI LC (2.2 μm) (R (2) = 0.893) and PARI LC (2.9 μm) (R (2) = 0.878), while a relatively good correlation (R (2) = 0.977) was observed for the largest particle size nebulizer (PARI TIA (8.6 μm)). We conclude that the ambient environment and the nebulizer have significant impacts on the performance and consistency between these instruments. These factors should be controlled in the evaluation of inhaled aerosol drug formulations when these instruments are used individually or in combination.

Nebulized isotonic saline improves voice production in Sjögren's syndrome.

PubMed

Tanner, Kristine; Nissen, Shawn L; Merrill, Ray M; Miner, Alison; Channell, Ron W; Miller, Karla L; Elstad, Mark; Kendall, Katherine A; Roy, Nelson

2015-10-01

This study examined the effects of a topical vocal fold hydration treatment on voice production over time. Prospective, longitudinal, within-subjects A (baseline), B (treatment), A (withdrawal/reversal), B (treatment) experimental design. Eight individuals with primary Sjögren's syndrome (SS), an autoimmune disease causing laryngeal dryness, completed an 8-week A-B-A-B experiment. Participants performed twice-daily audio recordings of connected speech and sustained vowels and then rated vocal effort, mouth dryness, and throat dryness. Two-week treatment phases introduced twice-daily 9-mL doses of nebulized isotonic saline (0.9% Na(+)Cl(-)). Voice handicap and patient-based measures of SS disease severity were collected before and after each 2-week phase. Connected speech and sustained vowels were analyzed using the Cepstral Spectral Index of Dysphonia (CSID). Acoustic and patient-based ratings during each baseline and treatment phase were analyzed and compared. Baseline CSID and patient-based ratings were in the mild-to-moderate range. CSID measures of voice severity improved by approximately 20% with nebulized saline treatment and worsened during treatment withdrawal. Posttreatment CSID values fell within the normal-to-mild range. Similar patterns were observed in patient-based ratings of vocal effort and dryness. CSID values and patient-based ratings correlated significantly (P < .05). Nebulized isotonic saline improves voice production based on acoustic and patient-based ratings of voice severity. Future work should optimize topical vocal fold hydration treatment formulations, dose, and delivery methodologies for various patient populations. This study lays the groundwork for future topical vocal fold hydration treatment development to manage and possibly prevent dehydration-related voice disorders. 2b. © 2015 The American Laryngological, Rhinological and Otological Society, Inc.

Ground deformation monitoring using RADARSAT-2 DInSAR-MSBAS at the Aquistore CO2 storage site in Saskatchewan (Canada)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Czarnogorska, M.; Samsonov, S.; White, D.

2014-11-01

The research objectives of the Aquistore CO2 storage project are to design, adapt, and test non-seismic monitoring methods for measurement, and verification of CO2 storage, and to integrate data to determine subsurface fluid distributions, pressure changes and associated surface deformation. Aquistore site is located near Estevan in Southern Saskatchewan on the South flank of the Souris River and west of the Boundary Dam Power Station and the historical part of Estevan coal mine in southeastern Saskatchewan, Canada. Several monitoring techniques were employed in the study area including advanced satellite Differential Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (DInSAR) technique, GPS, tiltmeters and piezometers. The targeted CO2 injection zones are within the Winnipeg and Deadwood formations located at > 3000 m depth. An array of monitoring techniques was employed in the study area including advanced satellite Differential Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (DInSAR) with established corner reflectors, GPS, tiltmeters and piezometers stations. We used airborne LIDAR data for topographic phase estimation, and DInSAR product geocoding. Ground deformation maps have been calculated using Multidimensional Small Baseline Subset (MSBAS) methodology from 134 RADARSAT-2 images, from five different beams, acquired during 20120612-20140706. We computed and interpreted nine time series for selected places. MSBAS results indicate slow ground deformation up to 1 cm/year not related to CO2 injection but caused by various natural and anthropogenic causes.

Economic evaluation of nebulized magnesium sulphate in acute severe asthma in children.

PubMed

Petrou, Stavros; Boland, Angela; Khan, Kamran; Powell, Colin; Kolamunnage-Dona, Ruwanthi; Lowe, John; Doull, Iolo; Hood, Kerry; Williamson, Paula

2014-10-01

The aim of this study was to estimate the cost-effectiveness of nebulized magnesium sulphate (MgSO4) in acute asthma in children from the perspective of the UK National Health Service and personal social services. An economic evaluation was conducted based on evidence from a randomized placebo controlled multi-center trial of nebulized MgSO4 in severe acute asthma in children. Participants comprised 508 children aged 2-16 years presenting to an emergency department or a children's assessment unit with severe acute asthma across thirty hospitals in the United Kingdom. Children were randomly allocated to receive nebulized salbutamol and ipratropium bromide mixed with either 2.5 ml of isotonic MgSO4 or 2.5 ml of isotonic saline on three occasions at 20-min intervals. Cost-effectiveness outcomes were constructed around the Yung Asthma Severity Score (ASS) after 60 min of treatment; whilst cost-utility outcomes were constructed around the quality-adjusted life-year (QALY) metric. The nonparametric bootstrap method was used to present cost-effectiveness acceptability curves at alternative cost-effectiveness thresholds for either: (i) a unit reduction in ASS; or (ii) an additional QALY. MgSO4 had a 75.1 percent probability of being cost-effective at a GBP 1,000 (EUR 1,148) per unit decrement in ASS threshold, an 88.0 percent probability of being more effective (in terms of reducing the ASS) and a 36.6 percent probability of being less costly. MgSO4 also had a 67.6 percent probability of being cost-effective at a GBP 20,000 (EUR 22,957) per QALY gained threshold, an 8.5 percent probability of being more effective (in terms of generating increased QALYs) and a 69.1 percent probability of being less costly. Sensitivity analyses showed that the results of the economic evaluation were particularly sensitive to the methods used for QALY estimation. The probability of cost-effectiveness of nebulized isotonic MgSO4, given as an adjuvant to standard treatment of severe acute

Ultrasonic nebulization extraction/low pressure photoionization mass spectrometry for direct analysis of chemicals in matrices.

PubMed

Liu, Chengyuan; Zhu, Yanan; Zhou, Zhongyue; Yang, Jiuzhong; Qi, Fei; Pan, Yang

2015-09-03

A novel ultrasonic nebulization extraction/low-pressure photoionization (UNE-LPPI) system has been designed and employed for the rapid mass spectrometric analysis of chemicals in matrices. An ultrasonic nebulizer was used to extract the chemicals in solid sample and nebulize the solvent in the nebulization cell. Aerosols formed by ultrasonic were evaporated by passing through a transferring tube, and desolvated chemicals were ionized by the emitted light (10.6 eV) from a Krypton discharge lamp at low pressure (∼68 Pa). First, a series of semi/non-volatile compounds with different polarities, such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), amino acids, dipeptides, drugs, nucleic acids, alkaloids, and steroids were used to test the system. Then, the quantification capability of UNE-LPPI was checked with: 1) pure chemicals, such as 9,10-phenanthrenequinone and 1,4-naphthoquinone dissolved in solvent; 2) soil powder spiked with different amounts of phenanthrene and pyrene. For pure chemicals, the correlation coefficient (R(2)) for the standard curve of 9,10-phenanthrenequinone in the range of 3 ng-20 μg mL(-1) was 0.9922, and the measured limits of detection (LOD) was 1 ng ml(-1). In the case of soil powder, linear relationships for phenanthrene and pyrene from 10 to 400 ng mg(-1) were obtained with correlation coefficients of 0.9889 and 0.9893, respectively. At last, the feasibility of UNE-LPPI for the detection of chemicals in real matrices such as tablets and biological tissues (tea, Citrus aurantium peel and sage (Salvia officinalis) leaf) were successfully demonstrated. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Use of a parallel path nebulizer for capillary-based microseparation techniques coupled with an inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer for speciation measurements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yanes, Enrique G.; Miller-Ihli, Nancy J.

2004-06-01

A low flow, parallel path Mira Mist CE nebulizer designed for capillary electrophoresis (CE) was evaluated as a function of make-up solution flow rate, composition, and concentration, as well as the nebulizer gas flow rate. This research was conducted in support of a project related to the separation and quantification of cobalamin (vitamin B-12) species using microseparation techniques combined with inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) detection. As such, Co signals were monitored during the nebulizer characterization process. Transient effects in the ICP were studied to evaluate the suitability of using gradients for microseparations and the benefit of using methanol for the make-up solution was demonstrated. Co signal response changed significantly as a function of changing methanol concentrations of the make-up solution and maximum signal enhancement was seen at 20% methanol with a 15 μl/min flow rate. Evaluation of the effect of changing the nebulizer gas flow rates showed that argon flows from 0.8 to 1.2 l/min were equally effective. The Mira Mist CE parallel path nebulizer was then evaluated for interfacing capillary microseparation techniques including capillary electrophoresis (CE) and micro high performance liquid chromatography (μHPLC) to inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). A mixture of four cobalamin species standards (cyanocobalamin, hydroxocobalamin, methylcobalamin, and 5' deoxyadenosylcobalamin) and the corrinoid analogue cobinamide dicyanide were successfully separated using both CE-ICP-MS and μHPLC-ICP-MS using the parallel path nebulizer with a make-up solution containing 20% methanol with a flow rate of 15 μl/min.

Beneficial effects of warmed humidified oxygen combined with nebulized albuterol and ipratropium in pediatric patients with acute exacerbation of asthma in winter months.

PubMed

Nibhanipudi, Kumara; Hassen, Getaw Worku; Smith, Arthur

2009-11-01

The objective of this study was to determine whether a combination of nebulized albuterol and ipratropium with warmed humidified oxygen would be more beneficial when compared to the same combination with humidified oxygen at room temperature. Albuterol alone was tested in the same settings. All patients between 6 and 17 years of age who presented to a pediatric emergency department in the winter months with acute exacerbation of bronchial asthma were given a combination of nebulized albuterol and ipratropium with warmed or room temperature humidified oxygen. Peak flow was measured before and after the treatment. Sixty patients were enrolled in the study, with 15 subjects in each group. The mean increase in peak flow in the albuterol-ipratropium with warm humidified oxygen group was 52.6, and in the albuterol-ipratropium with humidified oxygen at room temperature group, it was 26.2. The results of the albuterol with warmed humidified oxygen and with humidified oxygen at room temperature groups were 20.6 and 34.3, respectively. The differences between the groups were statistically significant. Our study shows that warmed humidified oxygen given along with the combination of nebulized albuterol and ipratropium is more beneficial for pediatric patients having an acute exacerbation of bronchial asthma in the winter months when compared to nebulized albuterol alone with warmed humidified oxygen, nebulized albuterol alone with room temperature humidified oxygen, or a combination of nebulized albuterol and ipratropium with room temperature humidified oxygen.

Nebulized heparin is associated with fewer days of mechanical ventilation in critically ill patients: a randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Dixon, Barry; Schultz, Marcus J; Smith, Roger; Fink, James B; Santamaria, John D; Campbell, Duncan J

2010-01-01

Prolonged mechanical ventilation has the potential to aggravate or initiate pulmonary inflammation and cause lung damage through fibrin deposition. Heparin may reduce pulmonary inflammation and fibrin deposition. We therefore assessed whether nebulized heparin improved lung function in patients expected to require prolonged mechanical ventilation. Fifty patients expected to require mechanical ventilation for more than 48 hours were enrolled in a double-blind randomized placebo-controlled trial of nebulized heparin (25,000 U) or placebo (normal saline) 4 or 6 hourly, depending on patient height. The study drug was continued while the patient remained ventilated to a maximum of 14 days from randomization. Nebulized heparin was not associated with a significant improvement in the primary end-point, the average daily partial pressure of oxygen to inspired fraction of oxygen ratio while mechanically ventilated, but was associated with improvement in the secondary end-point, ventilator-free days amongst survivors at day 28 (22.6 ± 4.0 versus 18.0 ± 7.1, treatment difference 4.6 days, 95% CI 0.9 to 8.3, P = 0.02). Heparin administration was not associated with any increase in adverse events. Nebulized heparin was associated with fewer days of mechanical ventilation in critically ill patients expected to require prolonged mechanical ventilation. Further trials are required to confirm these findings. The Australian Clinical Trials Registry (ACTR-12608000121369).

Dose Accuracy and Injection Force of Different Insulin Glargine Pens

PubMed Central

Friedrichs, Arnd; Bohnet, Janine; Korger, Volker; Adler, Steffen; Schubert-Zsilavecz, Manfred; Abdel-Tawab, Mona

2013-01-01

Background Dose accuracy and injection force, representing key parameters of insulin pens, were determined for three pens delivering insulin glargine-based copies, Pen Royale (WR) and DispoPen (WD) for Glaritus® (Wockhardt) and GanLee Pen (GL) for Basalin® (Gan & Lee), compared with pens of the originator, ClikSTAR® (CS) and S o l o S TA R® (SS) for Lantus® (Sanofi) . Methods Using the weighing procedure recommended by DIN EN ISO 11608–1:2000, dose accuracy was evaluated based on nonrandomized delivery of low (5 U), mid (30 U), and high (60 U) dosage levels. Injection force was measured by dispensing the maximum dose of insulin (60 U for the GL, WR, and WD; 80 U for the SS and CS) at dose speeds of 6 and 10 U/s. Results All tested pens delivered comparable average doses within the DIN EN ISO 11608–1:2000 limits at all dosage levels. The GL revealed a higher coefficient of variation (CV) at 5 U, and the WR and WD had higher CVs at all dosage levels compared with the CS and SS. Injection force was higher for the WR, WD, and GL compared with the CS and SS at both dose speeds. In contrast to the CS and SS with an end-of-content feature, doses exceeding the remaining insulin could be dialed with the WR, GL, and WD and, apparently, dispensed with the WD. Conclusions All pens fulfilled the dose accuracy requirements defined by DIN EN ISO 11608–1:2000 standards at all three dosage levels, with the WR, WD, and GL showing higher dosage variability and injection force compared with the SS and CS. Thus, the devices that deliver insulin glargine copies show different performance characteristics compared with the originator. J Diabetes Sci Technol 2013;7(5):1346–1353 PMID:24124963

Applicability of an ultrasonic nebulization system for the airways delivery of beclomethasone dipropionate in a murine model of asthma.

PubMed

Hrvacić, Boska; Bosnjak, Berislav; Tudja, Marijan; Mesić, Milan; Merćep, Mladen

2006-08-01

We have assessed the use of an ultrasonic nebulization system (UNS), composed of ultrasonic nebulizer and diffusion dryer filled with charcoal, for the effective delivery of beclomethasone to the airways in a murine asthma model. Solution of beclomethasone in ethanol was aerosolized using an ultrasonic nebulizer. Passage of the aerosol through a drying column containing charcoal and deionizer produced dry beclomethasone particles. Particles were delivered to BALB/c mice placed in a whole-body exposition chamber 1 h before intranasal challenge with ovalbumine. Efficacy of beclomethasone delivery was evaluated by examining bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) cytology. Effect of three UNS system parameters on aerosol particle size was investigated. The critical parameter affecting the size of dry particles was beclomethasone concentration in aerosolized solution and solution flow rate while power level of ultrasonic nebulizer generator had no effect. Administration of beclomethasone at calculated dose of 150 microg/kg to mice significantly decreased total cell number and relative eosinophil number in BALF. The UNS system produces a monodisperse aerosol that can be used for inhalative delivery of poorly water soluble substances to experimental animals. The UNS system minimizes formulation requirements and allows rapid and relatively simple efficacy and toxicity testing in animals.

Nebulization of Cyclic Arginine-Glycine-(D)-Aspartic Acid-Peptide Grafted and Drug Encapsulated Liposomes for Inhibition of Acute Lung Injury.

PubMed

Desu, Hari R; Thoma, Laura A; Wood, George C

2018-03-13

Acute lung injury (ALI) is a fatal syndrome in critically ill patients. It is characterized by lung edema and inflammation. Numerous pro-inflammatory mediators are released into alveoli. Among them, interleukin-1beta (IL-1β) causes an increase in solute permeability across the alveolar-capillary barrier leading to edema. It activates key effector cells (alveolar epithelial and endothelial cells) releasing inflammatory chemokines and cytokines. The purpose of the study was to demonstrate that nebulized liposomes inhibit ALI in vivo. In vivo ALI model was simulated through intra-tracheal instillation of IL-1β solution (100 μg/mL in PBS, pH 7.2, 200 μL) in male Sprague-Dawley rats. Various formulations were tested in ALI induced rats. These formulations include plain liposomes (PL), methylprednisolone sodium succinate solution (MPS solution), cRGD-peptide grafted liposomes (L cRGD ) and methylprednisolone sodium succinate encapsulated and cRGD-peptide grafted liposomes (MPS-L cRGD ). Formulations were nebulized in vivo in rats using micro-pump nebulizer. Liposome formulations exhibited higher levels of drug concentration in lungs. The physicochemical parameters demonstrated that the liposome formulations were stable. On the basis of aerodynamic droplet-size, nebulized formulations were estimated to deposit in different regions of respiratory tract, especially alveolar region, Among the formulations, MPS-L cRGD caused significant reduction of edema, neutrophil infiltration and inflammation biochemical marker levels. From the results, it can be inferred that nebulization of targeted liposomes had facilitated spatial and temporal modulation of drug delivery resulting in alleviation of ALI.

CFD simulation of aerosol delivery to a human lung via surface acoustic wave nebulization.

PubMed

Yousefi, Morteza; Pourmehran, Oveis; Gorji-Bandpy, Mofid; Inthavong, Kiao; Yeo, Leslie; Tu, Jiyuan

2017-12-01

Administration of drug in the form of particles through inhalation is generally preferable in the treatment of respiratory disorders. Conventional inhalation therapy devices such as inhalers and nebulizers, nevertheless, suffer from low delivery efficiencies, wherein only a small fraction of the inhaled drug reaches the lower respiratory tract. This is primarily because these devices are not able to produce a sufficiently fine drug mist that has aerodynamic diameters on the order of a few microns. This study employs computational fluid dynamics to investigate the transport and deposition of the drug particles produced by a new aerosolization technique driven by surface acoustic waves (SAWs) into an in silico lung model geometrically reconstructed using computed tomography scanning. The particles generated by the SAW are released in different locations in a spacer chamber attached to a lung model extending from the mouth to the 6th generation of the lung bronchial tree. An Eulerian approach is used to solve the Navier-Stokes equations that govern the airflow within the respiratory tract, and a Lagrangian approach is adopted to track the particles, which are assumed to be spherical and inert. Due to the complexity of the lung geometry, the airflow patterns vary as it penetrates deeper into the lung. High inertia particles tend to deposit at locations where the geometry experiences a significant reduction in cross section. Our findings, nevertheless, show that the injection location can influence the delivery efficiency: Injection points close to the spacer centerline result in deeper penetration into the lung. Additionally, we found that the ratio of drug particles entering the right lung is significantly higher than the left lung, independent of the injection location. This is in good agreement with this fact that the most of airflow enters to the right lobes.

Preclinical safety evaluation of submicronized sildenafil citrate nebulization solution in small experimental animals.

PubMed

Agrawal, Priyanka; Soni, Sandeep; Mittal, Gaurav; Bhatnagar, Aseem

2015-01-01

Sildenafil citrate (SC) nebulization solution has the potential to treat pulmonary hypertension by delivering high concentration directly to the respiratory system while minimizing systemic drug exposure and associated toxicity. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the potential toxicity of aerosolized SC (inhaled) in Sprague dawley rats for 28 days. The rats were randomly divided into five groups (n = 6). Placebo (normal saline) was inhaled to group I (control). Group II was exposed to therapeutic dose (TD): 20 mg/kg, while group 3 and group 4 were exposed to 3 TD and 6 TD, respectively, till 28 days and toxicokinetic parameters were evaluated in group V. The particle size of the nebulized solution of SC (1%) was measured by using Anderson Cascade Impactor. At the end of experiment, all animals were sacrificed. Endpoints used to evaluate potential toxicity of inhaled sildenafil citrate were clinical observations, body weight, and clinical pathology along with broncho-alveolar lavage (BAL) Fluid investigation. ACI study has shown that more than 70% aerosolized drug particles were in submicron range (0.3-0.5 μm). There was no systemic toxicity or clinically limiting local respiratory toxicity associated with inhalation exposure to SC nebulization solution at 6 TD. No significant changes were observed in the level of different blood and BALF parameters in treated groups in comparison to control. Histopathological examination revealed no abnormal findings in the animals of treated group. The data demonstrate that aerosolized sildenafil citrate is well tolerated in rats and suggest its use in humans.

Sample Introduction Using the Hildebrand Grid Nebulizer for Plasma Spectrometry

DTIC Science & Technology

1988-01-01

linear dynamic ranges, precision, and peak width were de- termined for elements in methanol and acetonitrile solutions. , (1)> The grid nebulizer was...FIA) with ICP-OES detection were evaluated. Detec- tion limits, linear dynamic ranges, precision, and peak width were de- termined for elements in...Concentration vs. Log Peak Area for Mn, 59 Cd, Zn, Au, Ni in Methanol (CMSC) 3-28 Log Concentration vs. Log Peak Area for Mn, 60 Cd, Au, Ni in

Nebulized C1-Esterase Inhibitor does not Reduce Pulmonary Complement Activation in Rats with Severe Streptococcus Pneumoniae Pneumonia.

PubMed

de Beer, Friso; Lagrand, Wim; Glas, Gerie J; Beurskens, Charlotte J P; van Mierlo, Gerard; Wouters, Diana; Zeerleder, Sacha; Roelofs, Joris J T H; Juffermans, Nicole P; Horn, Janneke; Schultz, Marcus J

2016-12-01

Complement activation plays an important role in the pathogenesis of pneumonia. We hypothesized that inhibition of the complement system in the lungs by repeated treatment with nebulized plasma-derived human C1-esterase inhibitor reduces pulmonary complement activation and subsequently attenuates lung injury and lung inflammation. This was investigated in a rat model of severe Streptococcus pneumoniae pneumonia. Rats were intra-tracheally challenged with S. pneumoniae to induce pneumonia. Nebulized C1-esterase inhibitor or saline (control animals) was repeatedly administered to rats, 30 min before induction of pneumonia and every 6 h thereafter. Rats were sacrificed 20 or 40 h after inoculation with bacteria. Brochoalveolar lavage fluid and lung tissue were obtained for measuring levels of complement activation (C4b/c), lung injury and inflammation. Induction of pneumonia was associated with pulmonary complement activation (C4b/c at 20 h 1.24 % [0.56-2.59] and at 40 h 2.08 % [0.98-5.12], compared to 0.50 % [0.07-0.59] and 0.03 % [0.03-0.03] in the healthy control animals). The functional fraction of C1-INH was detectable in BALF, but no effect was found on pulmonary complement activation (C4b/c at 20 h 0.73 % [0.16-1.93] and at 40 h 2.38 % [0.54-4.19]). Twenty hours after inoculation, nebulized C1-esterase inhibitor treatment reduced total histology score, but this effect was no longer seen at 40 h. Nebulized C1-esterase inhibitor did not affect other markers of lung injury or lung inflammation. In this negative experimental animal study, severe S. pneumoniae pneumonia in rats is associated with pulmonary complement activation. Repeated treatment with nebulized C1-esterase inhibitor, although successfully delivered to the lungs, does not affect pulmonary complement activation, lung inflammation or lung injury.

Methods of analysis by the U.S. Geological Survey National Water Quality Laboratory; use of a modified ultrasonic nebulizer for the analysis of low ionic-strength water by inductively coupled optical emission spectrometry

USGS Publications Warehouse

Harris, Carl M.; Litteral, Charles J.; Damrau, Donna L.

1997-01-01

The U.S. Geological Survey National Water Quality Laboratory has developed a method for the determination of dissolved calcium, iron, magnesium, manganese, silica, and sodium using a modified ultrasonic nebulizer sample-introduction system to an inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometer. The nebulizer's spray chamber has been modified to avoid carryover and memory effects common in some conventional ultrasonic designs. The modified ultrasonic nebulizer is equipped with a high-speed rinse cycle to remove previously analyzed samples from the spray chamber without excessive flush times. This new rinse cycle decreases sample washout times by reducing carryover and memory effects from salt or analytes in previously analyzed samples by as much as 45 percent. Plasma instability has been reduced by repositioning the argon carrier gas inlet on the spray chamber and by directly pumping waste from the chamber, instead of from open drain traps, thereby maintaining constant pressure to the plasma. The ultrasonic nebulizer improves signal intensities, which are 8 to 16 times greater than for a conventional cross-flow pneumatic nebulizer, without being sensitive to clogging from salt buildup as in cross-flow nebulizers. Detection limits for the ultrasonic nebulizer are 4 to 18 times less than detection limits achievable using a cross-flow pneumatic nebulizer, with equivalent sample analysis time.

Effect of On-Demand vs Routine Nebulization of Acetylcysteine With Salbutamol on Ventilator-Free Days in Intensive Care Unit Patients Receiving Invasive Ventilation: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

PubMed

van Meenen, David M P; van der Hoeven, Sophia M; Binnekade, Jan M; de Borgie, Corianne A J M; Merkus, Maruschka P; Bosch, Frank H; Endeman, Henrik; Haringman, Jasper J; van der Meer, Nardo J M; Moeniralam, Hazra S; Slabbekoorn, Mathilde; Muller, Marcella C A; Stilma, Willemke; van Silfhout, Bart; Neto, Ary Serpa; Ter Haar, Hans F M; Van Vliet, Jan; Wijnhoven, Jan Willem; Horn, Janneke; Juffermans, Nicole P; Pelosi, Paolo; Gama de Abreu, Marcelo; Schultz, Marcus J; Paulus, Frederique

2018-03-13

It remains uncertain whether nebulization of mucolytics with bronchodilators should be applied for clinical indication or preventively in intensive care unit (ICU) patients receiving invasive ventilation. To determine if a strategy that uses nebulization for clinical indication (on-demand) is noninferior to one that uses preventive (routine) nebulization. Randomized clinical trial enrolling adult patients expected to need invasive ventilation for more than 24 hours at 7 ICUs in the Netherlands. On-demand nebulization of acetylcysteine or salbutamol (based on strict clinical indications, n = 471) or routine nebulization of acetylcysteine with salbutamol (every 6 hours until end of invasive ventilation, n = 473). The primary outcome was the number of ventilator-free days at day 28, with a noninferiority margin for a difference between groups of -0.5 days. Secondary outcomes included length of stay, mortality rates, occurrence of pulmonary complications, and adverse events. Nine hundred twenty-two patients (34% women; median age, 66 (interquartile range [IQR], 54-75 years) were enrolled and completed follow-up. At 28 days, patients in the on-demand group had a median 21 (IQR, 0-26) ventilator-free days, and patients in the routine group had a median 20 (IQR, 0-26) ventilator-free days (1-sided 95% CI, -0.00003 to ∞). There was no significant difference in length of stay or mortality, or in the proportion of patients developing pulmonary complications, between the 2 groups. Adverse events (13.8% vs 29.3%; difference, -15.5% [95% CI, -20.7% to -10.3%]; P < .001) were more frequent with routine nebulization and mainly related to tachyarrhythmia (12.5% vs 25.9%; difference, -13.4% [95% CI, -18.4% to -8.4%]; P < .001) and agitation (0.2% vs 4.3%; difference, -4.1% [95% CI, -5.9% to -2.2%]; P < .001). Among ICU patients receiving invasive ventilation who were expected to not be extubated within 24 hours, on-demand compared with routine nebulization of

Financial effect of converting ipratropium-albuterol therapy from inhalers to nebulizer treatments at an academic health system.

PubMed

Loborec, Steven M; Johnson, Shawn E; Keating, Ellen A

2016-02-01

The results of a study to assess the financial impact of an automatic formulary substitution of ipratropium-albuterol nebulization solution for ipratropium-albuterol metered-dose inhalers (MDIs) at an academic health system are reported. The study was conducted at a 1242-bed urban academic health system. Data were collected regarding all respiratory medication administrations during a three-month period before the MDI-to-nebulizer substitution (October-December 2012) and the same period of 2013 (after the substitution was implemented). Purchasing data were compared between the two time periods to measure the impact of the formulary substitution on pharmacy department costs, and documented administrations were assessed to evaluate associated changes in respiratory therapist (RT) workload. With 100% prescriber compliance with the formulary substitution, the number of MDI administrations of ipratropium-albuterol declined from 13,667 in October-December 2012 to zero in the same period of 2013. The substitution required expenditures for equipment (vibrating mesh nebulizer technology and patient-specific kits) and RT personnel (one additional RT was hired), but those added costs were substantially outweighed by cost savings resulting from a substantial reduction in overall respiratory drug spending. An automatic substitution of ipratropium-albuterol nebulization solution for MDIs resulted in a three-month savings of $99,359 in drug cost and an extrapolated full-year savings of $397,436. When additional costs associated with the substitution were taken into account, there was an overall savings of $146,806 during the implementation year and a projected savings of $257,936 for each following year. Copyright © 2016 by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc. All rights reserved.

[Ernst Rüdin: distinguished scientist, radical racial hygienist].

PubMed

Roelcke, V

2012-03-01

Ernst Rüdin (1874–1952) was one of the founders of psychiatric genetics. From 1931 until 1945, he was Director of the German Institute for Psychiatric Research (Deutsche Forschungsanstalt für Psychiatrie, DFA) and from 1935 until 1945 President of the German Association of Neurologists and Psychiatrists. The historical knowledge on Rüdin is reconsidered, using new sources, and with a focus on Rüdin’s involvement in the Nazi program of patient killings („euthanasia"). It is documented that (1) it is a misconception to interpret psychiatric genetics as „instrumentalised" by the Nazi regime; (2) Rüdin belonged to the group of psychiatric perpetrators who worked to give the Nazi selection policies scientific authority; (3) Rüdin knew early on about the patient killings and refused to support others in their efforts to stop them; and (4) the research in the context of the patient killings carried out by Julius Deussen, a member of Rüdin’s team at the DFA, was initiated and actively supported by Rüdin, and co-financed by the DFA.

Nebulized hypertonic saline and recombinant human DNase in the treatment of pulmonary atelectasis in newborns.

PubMed

Dilmen, Ugur; Karagol, Belma Saygili; Oguz, Serife Suna

2011-06-01

The aim of this study was to compare and evaluate the efficacy of nebulized 3% hypertonic saline (HS) and recombinant human DNase (rhDNase) treatment for resolution of persistent atelectasis in newborns. Forty newborns (38 preterms) who did not respond to conventional treatment were enrolled to receive either nebulized 3% HS solution (n = 20) or rhDNase (n = 20) between September 2007 and March 2008. Clinical parameters, oxygen saturation and radiological response (chest X-ray scoring) were analyzed before and after administration of 3% HS or rhDNase. The patients of the nebulized 3% HS solution group improved better chest X-ray scores parameters than the patients of the rhDNase group: chest X-ray scores were 5.1 ± 1.9 vs 4.8 ± 1.7 before treatment and 1.0 ± 0.8 vs 2.1 ± 1.4 after treatment (P < 0.001). Resolution time of atelectasis did not differ between the two groups after whole treatment but the percentage of atelectasis resolution after 3 days treatment were 90% (18/20) in the 3% HS group and 70% (14/20) in the rhDNase group. The patients in the 3% HS group improved better also in clinical parameters in comparison to the rhDNase treatment. The difference of oxygen saturation before and after the treatment was 4.6 ± 0.8 in 3% HS group in comparison to 2.6 ± 0.1 in the rhDNase group (P < 0.05). All serum sodium levels were normal in two groups before and after the treatment modalities. This is the first study on the usefulness of nebulized 3% hypertonic saline solution in treating newborns with pulmonary atelectasis. In addition, 3% HS solution was a more effective therapeutic option on the basis of clinical and radiological improvement compared to rhDNase treatment in newborns with pulmonary atelectasis. © 2011 The Authors. Pediatrics International © 2011 Japan Pediatric Society.

Determination of metals in lubricating oils by flame atomic absorption spectrometry using a single-bore high-pressure pneumatic nebulizer.

PubMed

Mora, J; Todolí, J L; Sempere, F J; Canals, A; Hernandis, V

2000-12-01

The behaviour of a single-bore high-pressure pneumatic nebulizer (SBHPPN) as a tool for the analysis of lubricating oils by flame atomic absorption spectrometry (FAAS) was investigated. The effects of the sample oil content [from 10% to 100% (w/w) oil in 4-methylpentan-2-one, IBMK] and the carrier nature (IBMK and methanol) on the characteristics of the aerosols generated, on the analyte transport efficiency and on the analytical figures of merit in FAAS were studied. A pneumatic concentric nebulizer (PCN) was used for comparison. Increasing the oil content increases the viscosity of the sample. With the PCN this gives rise to coarser aerosols, making it impossible to nebulize samples with an oil content higher than 70% (w/w). Using the SBHPPN, the viscosity of the sample scarcely affects the characteristics of the primary aerosols. Hence, the SBHPPN is able, by using the appropriate carrier, to nebulize pure lubricating oils. Among the carriers tested, IBMK is the most advisable because it is fully miscible with all the oil samples. The SBHPPN provides higher sensitivities and lower limits of detection than the PCN. Compared with a method based on organic dilution, the use of the SBHPPN for the direct analysis of lubricating oils by FAAS makes it possible, in addition to increasing the analysis throughput, to detect elements at lower concentrations. Moreover, the SBHPPN provides similar results to those obtained using a previous acid digestion step.

Effectiveness of mouthpiece nebulization and nasal swab stick packing for topical anesthesia in awake fiberoptic nasotracheal intubation.

PubMed

Techanivate, Anchalee; Leelanukrom, Ruenreong; Prapongsena, Prut; Terachinda, Danuchit

2007-10-01

To evaluate the effectiveness of using mouthpiece nebulization and nasal swab stick packing for topical anesthesia in awake fiberoptic nasotracheal intubation. This was a prospective descriptive study of 30 patients with ASA I-II who underwent elective surgery and suspected of difficult intubation between March 2004 and June 2006. After 2% lidocaine 5 ml was nebulizated in a micronebulizer using oxygen 10 L/min as a driving gas through a standard mouthpiece and 10% cocaine 1 ml on cotton swab-stick was applied to the selected nostril for 15 min, fiberoptic nasotracheal intubation was done while the patient was awake. If the patient had severe gag or cough reflex, 1% lidocaine 5 ml per each time could be injected through the working channel of the fiberoptic bronchoscope. The descriptive statistics were calculated by using SPSS version 11.0. The success rate of awake fiberoptic nasotracheal was 100%. The mean duration of awake fiberoptic nasotracheal intubation was 119.0 +/- 76.8 sec. The responses of the patient to instrumentation during 4 periods, i.e.: passing the endotracheal tube into the nose, passing the bronchoscope into the pharynx-larynx, passing the bronchoscope into the trachea-carina and passing the endotracheal tube into the trachea were, as follows: no response in about 53.3%, 63.3%, 23.3%,and 13.3%; mild pain or reflex in about 46.7%, 10%, 70%, and 86.7%; moderate pain or reflex in about 0%, 3.3%, 6.7%, and 0%; and severe pain or reflex requiring more local anesthetic in about 0%, 23.3%, 0%, and 0%, respectively. Despite complete topical anesthesia in the majority of the patients, two patients required 5 ml more 1% lidocaine and five patients required 10 mL more of the drug through the fiberoptic bronchoscope. There was no serious complication such as hypoxemia, arrhythmia. Twenty-four patients (80%) were satisfied with mouthpiece nebulization and nasal swab packing because they felt safe, did not have pain, and were comfortable; only three patients

Aerosol Delivery with Two Nebulizers Through High-Flow Nasal Cannula: A Randomized Cross-Over Single-Photon Emission Computed Tomography-Computed Tomography Study.

PubMed

Dugernier, Jonathan; Hesse, Michel; Jumetz, Thibaud; Bialais, Emilie; Roeseler, Jean; Depoortere, Virginie; Michotte, Jean-Bernard; Wittebole, Xavier; Ehrmann, Stephan; Laterre, Pierre-François; Jamar, François; Reychler, Gregory

2017-10-01

High-flow nasal cannula use is developing in ICUs. The aim of this study was to compare aerosol efficiency by using two nebulizers through a high-flow nasal cannula: the most commonly used jet nebulizer (JN) and a more efficient vibrating-mesh nebulizer (VN). Aerosol delivery of diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid labeled with technetium-99m (4 mCi/4 mL) to the lungs by using a VN (Aerogen Solo ® ; Aerogen Ltd., Galway, Ireland) and a constant-output JN (Opti-Mist Plus Nebulizer ® ; ConvaTec, Bridgewater, NJ) through a high-flow nasal cannula (Optiflow ® ; Fisher & Paykel, New Zealand) was compared in six healthy subjects. Flow rate was set at 30 L/min through the heated humidified circuit. Pulmonary and extrapulmonary deposition was measured by single-photon emission computed tomography combined with a low-dose computed tomographic scan and by planar scintigraphy. Lung deposition was only 3.6 (2.1-4.4) and 1 (0.7-2)% of the nominal dose with the VN and the JN, respectively (p < 0.05). The JN showed higher retained doses than the VN. However, both nebulizers were associated with substantial deposition in the single limb circuit, the humidification chamber, and the nasal cannula [58.2 (51.6-61.6)% of the nominal dose with the VN versus 19.2 (15.8-22.9)% of the nominal dose with the JN, p < 0.05] and in the upper respiratory tract [17.6 (13.4-27.9)% of the nominal dose with the VN and 8.6 (6.0-11.0)% of the nominal dose with the JN, p < 0.05], especially in the nasal cavity. In the specific conditions of the study, pulmonary drug delivery through the high-flow nasal cannula is about 1%-4% of the initial amount of drugs placed in the nebulizer, despite the higher efficiency of the VN as compared with the JN.

Nebulization with Gamma-Tocopherol Ameliorates Acute Lung Injury after Burn and Smoke Inhalation in the Ovine Model

PubMed Central

Yamamoto, Yusuke; Enkhbaatar, Perenlei; Sousse, Linda E.; Sakurai, Hiroyuki; Rehberg, Sebastian W.; Asmussen, Sven; Kraft, Edward R.; Wright, Charlotte L.; Bartha, Eva; Cox, Robert A.; Hawkins, Hal K.; Traber, Lillian D.; Traber, Maret G.; Szabo, Csaba; Herndon, David N.; Traber, Daniel L.

2012-01-01

We hypothesize that the nebulization of gamma-tocopherol (g-T) in the airway of our ovine model of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) will effectively improve pulmonary function following burn and smoke inhalation after 96 hours. Adult ewes (n=14) were subjected to 40% total body surface area burn and were insufflated with 48 breaths of cotton smoke under deep anesthesia, in a double-blind comparative study. A customized aerosolization device continuously delivered g-T in ethanol with each breath from 3 to 48 hours after the injury (g-T group, n=6), while the control group (n=5) was nebulized with only ethanol. Animals were weaned from the ventilator when possible. All animals were sacrificed after 96 hours, with the exception of one untreated animal that was euthanized after 64 hours. Lung g-T concentration significantly increased after g-T nebulization compared to the control group (38.5±16.8 nmol/g vs. 0.39±0.46, p<0.01). The PaO2/FiO2 ratio was significantly higher after treatment with g-T compared to the control group (310±152 vs 150±27.0, p<0.05). The following clinical parameters were improved with g-T treatment: pulmonary shunt fraction, peak and pause pressures, lung bloodless wet-to-dry weight ratios (2.9±0.87 vs 4.6±1.4, p<0.05), and bronchiolar obstruction (2.0±1.1% vs 4.6±1.7%, p<0.05). Nebulization of g-T, carried by ethanol, improved pulmonary oxygenation and markedly reduced the time necessary for assisted ventilation in burn and smoke injured sheep. Delivery of g-T into the lungs may be a safe, novel, and efficient approach for management of ALI patients who have sustained oxidative damage to the airway. PMID:22266978

Effect of heliox- and air-driven nebulized bronchodilator therapy on lung function in patients with asthma.

PubMed

El-Khatib, Mohamad F; Jamaleddine, Ghassan; Kanj, Nadim; Zeineddine, Salah; Chami, Hassan; Bou-Akl, Imad; Husari, Ahmad; Alawieh, Marwan; Bou-Khalil, Pierre

2014-06-01

This study compares the effect of heliox-driven to that of air-driven bronchodilator therapy on the pulmonary function test (PFT) in patients with different levels of asthma severity. One-hundred thirty-two participants were included in the study. Participants underwent spirometry twice with bronchodilator testing on two consecutive days. Air-driven nebulization was used one day and heliox-driven nebulization the other day in random order crossover design. After a baseline PFT, each participant received 2.5 mg of albuterol sulfate nebulized with the randomized driving gas. Post bronchodilator PFT was repeated after 30 min. The next day, the exact same protocol was repeated, except that the other driving gas was used to nebulize the drug. Participants were subgrouped and analyzed according to their baseline FEV(1) on day 1: Group I, FEV(1) ≥80 %; Group II, 80 % > FEV(1) > 50 %; Group III, FEV(1) ≤50 %. The proportion of participants with greater than 12 % and 200-mL increases from their baseline FEV(1) and the changes from baseline in PFT variables were compared between heliox-driven versus air-driven bronchodilation therapy. The proportion of participants with >12 % and 200-mL increases from their baseline FEV(1) with air- or heliox-driven bronchodilation was not different with respect to the proportion of participants with baseline FEV(1) ≥80 % (20 vs. 18 %, respectively) and 80 % > FEV(1) > 50 % (36 vs. 43 %, respectively), but it was significantly greater with heliox-driven bronchodilation in participants with FEV(1) ≤50 % (43 vs. 73 %, respectively; p = 0.01). Changes from baseline FVC, FEV(1), FEV(1)/FVC, FEF(25-75) %, FEF(max), FEF(25) %, FEF(50) %, and FEF(75) % were significantly larger with heliox-driven versus air-driven bronchodilation in participants with baseline FEV(1) ≤50 %. Improvements in PFT variables are more frequent and profound with heliox-driven compared to air-driven bronchodilator therapy only in asthmatic patients with baseline

Nebulized Isotonic Saline versus Water following a Laryngeal Desiccation Challenge in Classically Trained Sopranos

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Tanner, Kristine; Roy, Nelson; Merrill, Ray M.; Muntz, Faye; Houtz, Daniel R.; Sauder, Cara; Elstad, Mark; Wright-Costa, Julie

2010-01-01

Purpose: To examine the effects of nebulized isotonic saline (IS) versus sterile water (SW) on self-perceived phonatory effort (PPE) and phonation threshold pressure (PTP) following a surface laryngeal dehydration challenge in classically trained sopranos. Method: In a double-blind, within-subject crossover design, 34 sopranos breathed dry air…

Ernst Rüdin, 1874-1952: a German psychiatrist and geneticist.

PubMed

Weber, M M

1996-07-26

Ernst Rüdin (1874-1952) was one of the major representatives of German psychiatry, genetics, and eugenics in the first half of the twentieth century. Born in Switzerland, he was influenced early on by his brother-in-law Alfred Ploetz, who propagated the ideas of social Darwinism and "racial hygiene" in Germany after 1890. Rüdin began his career in psychiatry at Emil Kraepelin's clinic in Munich, where he developed the concept of "empirical genetic prognosis" of mental disorders. He published his first results on the genetics of schizophrenia in 1916. From 1917-1945 Rüdin was director of the Genealogical-Demographic Department at the German Institute for Psychiatric Research, which Kraepelin had founded. After a short interruption from 1925-1928, Rüdin returned to Munich and enlarged the department. After 1933 the National Socialist government and party endorsed Rüdin's work by supplying financial and manpower support. Nazi health policy required a scientific basis to justify its actions, and Rüdin's ideas corresponded partially with this kind of thinking. In 1934 he prepared the official commentary on the "Law for the Prevention of Genetically Diseased Offspring." The connections of Rüdin's department to National Socialism can be understood as one of the main reasons for the critical attitude towards psychiatric genetics in Germany after 1945.

Ovine progressive pneumonia virus is transmitted more effectively via aerosol nebulization than oral administration

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

A new method of experimental infection of ovine progressive pneumonia virus (OPPV), aerosol nebulization (Nb), was compared to intravenous (IV) and oral (PO) methods of experimental infection. Seven month old lambs were given 3.5 × 107 TCID50 of Dubois OPPV LMH19 isolate using IV, PO, or Nb methods ...

Comparison of Initial Response of Nebulized Salbutamol and Adrenaline in Infants and young Children Admitted with Acute Bronchiolitis.

PubMed

Adhikari, S; Thapa, P; Rao, K S; Bk, G

2016-01-01

Background Acute bronchiolitis is common cause of hospitalization in infants and young children. There are widespread variations in the diagnosis and management. Despite the use of bronchodilators for decades, there is lack of consensus for the benefit of one above another. Objective To compare initial response of nebulized adrenaline and salbutamol. Method Children aged two months to two years admitted with acute bronchiolitis in the department of Paediatrics of Manipal teaching hospital, Pokhara, Nepal, from 1st March 2014 to 28th February 2015 were enrolled. Patients fulfilling inclusion criteria received either adrenaline or salbutamol nebulization. Data were collected in a predesigned proforma. Respiratory distress assessment instrument (RDAI) scores were considered primary outcome measure and respiratory rate at 48 hours, duration of hospital stay, requirement of supplemental oxygen and intravenous fluid were considered secondary outcome measure. Result A total of 40 patients were enrolled in each study group. Mean RDAI scores at admission was in 9.75 with (CI- 9.01, 10.49) in adrenaline and 9.77 (CI- 9.05, 10.50) in salbutamol group. There was gradual decline in mean RDAI scores in both the groups over 48 hours to 4.15 (CI- 3.57,4.73) and 4.13 (CI- 3.69,4.56) in adrenaline and salbutamol group respectively. Hospital stay was 5.32 days in adrenaline and 5.68 days in salbutamol group. Patients nebulized with adrenaline required oxygen for 33.30 hours compared with 36.45 hours in salbutamol. Intravenous fluid duration was also less in adrenaline group compared to salbutamol group (33.15 vs 37.80 hours). Conclusion Patients of acute bronchiolitis nebulized with either salbutamol or adrenaline experienced similar decline in RDAI scores in the first 48 hours. Duration of supplementary oxygen and intravenous fluid was less in adrenaline group compared with salbutamol group.

MDI with DIY Spacer versus Nebulizer for Bronchodilator Therapy in Children Admitted with Asthmatic Attack.

PubMed

Leelathipkul, Lalit; Tanticharoenwiwat, Pattara; Ithiawatchakul, Jutinan; Prommin, Danu; Sirisalee, Pasu; Junhunee, Parinya; Poachanukoon, Orapan

2016-07-01

Inhaled bronchodilator treatment given via the pressurized metered-dose inhaler (pMDI) with spacer has been recommended for an acute asthma treatment. Unfortunately, most of commercially available spacers are at high cost while a do-it-yourself (DIY) spacer has lower cost as it is made from plastic bottle and siphon pump which are inexpensive and easilyfound materials. This study aims to compare treatment response in nebulizer and DIY spacer used for asthmatic children. A prospective, randomized control study was conducted in children aged 1-15 years old hospitalized for mild to moderate asthmatic attack at Thammasat University Hospital between June 2014 and March 2015. The patients were divided into 2 groups, receiving β2-agonist via nebulization and via pMDI with DIY spacer. Their vital signs and oxygen saturation were monitored and asthma scores were also recorded at admission, 24 hours, 48 hours, and before discharge. The satisfaction of equipment use was evaluated employing questionnaires. 40 childrens were enrolled with male at 72.5% and mean age at 3.1±1.6 years old. There was no significant difference in efficacy of β2-agonist among 2 groups when comparing in consideration of vital signs, oximetry, asthma scores and hospital stay. However, there were significantly different on side effect in which the DIY spacer had less tachycardia and agitation. Satisfaction of parents and healthcare workers were higher in DIY spacer. MDI with DIY spacer was able to be used effectively when compared with nebulization to treat mild to moderate acute exacerbations of asthma in children admitted in hospital.

Nebulized perflubron and carbon dioxide rapidly dilate constricted airways in an ovine model of allergic asthma.

PubMed

El Mays, Tamer Y; Choudhury, Parichita; Leigh, Richard; Koumoundouros, Emmanuel; Van der Velden, Joanne; Shrestha, Grishma; Pieron, Cora A; Dennis, John H; Green, Francis Hy; Snibson, Ken J

2014-09-16

The low toxicity of perfluorocarbons (PFCs), their high affinity for respiratory gases and their compatibility with lung surfactant have made them useful candidates for treating respiratory diseases such as adult respiratory distress syndrome. We report results for treating acute allergic and non-allergic bronchoconstriction in sheep using S-1226 (a gas mixture containing carbon dioxide and small volumes of nebulized perflubron). The carbon dioxide, which is highly soluble in perflubron, was used to relax airway smooth muscle. Sheep previously sensitized to house dust mite (HDM) were challenged with HDM aerosols to induce early asthmatic responses. At the maximal responses (characterised by an increase in lung resistance), the sheep were either not treated or treated with one of the following; nebulized S-1226 (perflubron + 12% CO2), nebulized perflubron + medical air, 12% CO2, salbutamol or medical air. Lung resistance was monitored for up to 20 minutes after cessation of treatment. Treatment with S-1226 for 2 minutes following HDM challenge resulted in a more rapid, more profound and more prolonged decline in lung resistance compared with the other treatment interventions. Video bronchoscopy showed an immediate and complete (within 5 seconds) re-opening of MCh-constricted airways following treatment with S-1226. S-1226 is a potent and rapid formulation for re-opening constricted airways. Its mechanism(s) of action are unknown. The formulation has potential as a rescue treatment for acute severe asthma.

The safety and pharmacokinetics of rapid iloprost aerosol delivery via the BREELIB nebulizer in pulmonary arterial hypertension

PubMed Central

Gessler, Tobias; Ghofrani, Hossein-Ardeschir; Held, Matthias; Klose, Hans; Leuchte, Hanno; Olschewski, Horst; Rosenkranz, Stephan; Fels, Lueder; Li, Na; Ren, Dawn; Kaiser, Andreas; Schultze-Mosgau, Marcus-Hillert; Müllinger, Bernhard; Rohde, Beate; Seeger, Werner

2017-01-01

The BREELIB nebulizer was developed for iloprost to reduce inhalation times for patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). This multicenter, randomized, unblinded, four-part study compared inhalation time, pharmacokinetics, and acute tolerability of iloprost 5 µg at mouthpiece delivered via BREELIB versus the standard I-Neb nebulizer in 27 patients with PAH. The primary safety outcome was the proportion of patients with a maximum increase in heart rate (HR) ≥ 25% and/or a maximum decrease in systolic blood pressure ≥ 20% within 30 min after inhalation. Other safety outcomes included systolic, diastolic, and mean blood pressure, HR, oxygen saturation, and adverse events (AEs). Median inhalation times were considerably shorter with BREELIB versus I-Neb (2.6 versus 10.9 min; n = 24). Maximum iloprost plasma concentration and systemic exposure (area under the plasma concentration–time curve) were 77% and 42% higher, respectively, with BREELIB versus I-Neb. Five patients experienced a maximum systolic blood pressure decrease ≥ 20%, four with BREELIB (one mildly and transiently symptomatic), and one with I-Neb; none required medical intervention. AEs reported during the study were consistent with the known safety profile of iloprost. The BREELIB nebulizer offers reduced inhalation time, good tolerability, and may improve iloprost aerosol therapy convenience and thus compliance for patients with PAH. PMID:28597762

High-dose nebulized budesonide is effective for mild asthma exacerbations in children under 3 years of age.

PubMed

Saito, M; Kikuchi, Y; Kawarai Lefor, A; Hoshina, M

2017-01-01

Background. High-dose inhaled steroid therapy has been shown to be effective in children and adults with asthma exacerbations. However, few reports are available regarding its efficacy for asthma exacerbations in younger children. Objective. In this study, we administered high-dose nebulized budesonide therapy for mild asthma exacerbations in children < 3 years of age and compared its efficacy and safety with systemic steroid therapy. Methods. This study included children < 3 years old with mild asthma exacerbations. Patients were randomly assigned to two groups: the BIS group was given 1 mg of nebulized budesonide twice daily, and the PSL group received prednisolone 0.5 mg/kg iv three times daily. Days to disappearance of wheezing, days of steroid use, days of oxygen use, serum cortisol level, and incidence of adverse events during treatment were compared between the groups. Result. Wheezing disappeared after an average of five days, and steroids were administered for an average of five days in both groups, with no significant difference in days of oxygen use. Serum cortisol levels at initiation and during the course of treatment remained unchanged in the BIS group, and were decreased in the PSL group; however, the decrease in the latter group was not pathologic. Conclusion. For children < 3 years old with mild asthma exacerbations, high-dose nebulized budesonide therapy is equally as effective as systemic steroid therapy.

Bipolar Mass Spectrometry of Labile Coordination Complexes, Redox Active Inorganic Compounds, and Proteins Using a Glass Nebulizer for Sonic-Spray Ionization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Antonakis, Manolis M.; Tsirigotaki, Alexandra; Kanaki, Katerina; Milios, Constantinos J.; Pergantis, Spiros A.

2013-08-01

In this study, we report on the development of a novel nebulizer configuration for sonic-spray ionization (SSI) mass spectrometry (MS), more specifically for a version of SSI that is referred to as Venturi easy ambient sonic-spray ionization (V-EASI) MS. The developed nebulizer configuration is based on a commercially available pneumatic glass nebulizer that has been used extensively for aerosol formation in atomic spectrometry. In the present study, the nebulizer was modified in order to achieve efficient V-EASI-MS operation. Upon evaluating this system, it has been demonstrated that V-EASI-MS offers some distinct advantages for the analysis of coordination compounds and redox active inorganic compounds over the predominantly used electrospray ionization (ESI) technique. Such advantages, for this type of compounds, are demonstrated here for the first time. More specifically, a series of labile heptanuclear heterometallic [CuII 6LnIII] clusters held together with artificial amino acid ligands, in addition to easily oxidized inorganic oxyanions of selenium and arsenic, were analyzed. The observed advantages pertain to V-EASI appearing to be a "milder" ionization source than ESI, not requiring electrical potentials for gas phase ion formation, thus eliminating the possibility of unwanted redox transformations, allowing for the "simultaneous" detection of negative and positive ions (bipolar analysis) without the need to change source ionization conditions, and also not requiring the use of syringes and delivery pumps. Because of such features, especially because of the absence of ionization potentials, EASI can be operated with minimal requirements for source parameter optimization. We observed that source temperature and accelerating voltage do not seem to affect labile compounds to the extent they do in ESI-MS. In addition, bipolar analysis of proteins was demonstrated here by acquiring both positive and negative ion mass spectra from the same protein solutions

[The efficacy and safety of budesonide inhalation suspension via transnasal nebulization compared with oral corticosteroids in chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps].

PubMed

Lou, Hongfei; Wang, Chengshuo; Zhang, Luo

2015-05-01

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of a short course of nebulized budesonide via transnasal inhalation in chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps. Fifty patients with severe eosinophilic nasal polyps were randomized devided into study group (n = 25) and control group (n = 25). The study group received budesonide inhalation suspension (1 mg twice daily) via transnasal nebulization for one week and the control group received oral prednisone (24 mg QD). Visual analogue scales (VAS) of nasal symptoms, endoscopic polyp scores (kennedy scores) and morning serum cortisol concentrations were assessed in both groups pre- and post-treatment. Operation time and surgical field bleeding were evaluated. Four subjects dropped out in control group. Budesonide transnasal nebulization caused a significant improvement in all nasal symptoms especially nasal obstruction (baseline: 8.25 ± 0.53; after treatment: 4.97 ± 0.97, P < 0.01) and reduced polyp size significantly (baseline: 4.64 ± 0.63; after treatment: 3.40 ± 0.76, P < 0.01) compared to pre-treatment. The patients treated with oral prednisone, however, showed more obvious improvement in nasal symptoms and polyp size, shorter operation time and better surgical field than budesonide group. Additionally, the morning serum cortisol concentration was mildly decreased after one week treatment in budesonide group [baseline (17.18 ± 2.83) μg/dl, after treatment (16.24 ± 2.93) μg/dl, P > 0.05], but all values were still located in normal range (normal range: 5-25 μg/dl). Conversely, the morning serum cortisol concentration in oral prednisone group was lower than normal limit [baseline (18.19 ± 2.81) μg/dl, after treatment (2.26 ± 0.70) μg/dl, P < 0.01]. Twice daily budesonide transnasal nebulization is an effective and safe treatment as evidenced by significant improvements in nasal symptoms and reduction in polyp size, coupled with an absence of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis suppression, which is safer than the

Bipolar mass spectrometry of labile coordination complexes, redox active inorganic compounds, and proteins using a glass nebulizer for sonic-spray ionization.

PubMed

Antonakis, Manolis M; Tsirigotaki, Alexandra; Kanaki, Katerina; Milios, Constantinos J; Pergantis, Spiros A

2013-08-01

In this study, we report on the development of a novel nebulizer configuration for sonic-spray ionization (SSI) mass spectrometry (MS), more specifically for a version of SSI that is referred to as Venturi easy ambient sonic-spray ionization (V-EASI) MS. The developed nebulizer configuration is based on a commercially available pneumatic glass nebulizer that has been used extensively for aerosol formation in atomic spectrometry. In the present study, the nebulizer was modified in order to achieve efficient V-EASI-MS operation. Upon evaluating this system, it has been demonstrated that V-EASI-MS offers some distinct advantages for the analysis of coordination compounds and redox active inorganic compounds over the predominantly used electrospray ionization (ESI) technique. Such advantages, for this type of compounds, are demonstrated here for the first time. More specifically, a series of labile heptanuclear heterometallic [Cu(II) 6Ln(III)] clusters held together with artificial amino acid ligands, in addition to easily oxidized inorganic oxyanions of selenium and arsenic, were analyzed. The observed advantages pertain to V-EASI appearing to be a "milder" ionization source than ESI, not requiring electrical potentials for gas phase ion formation, thus eliminating the possibility of unwanted redox transformations, allowing for the "simultaneous" detection of negative and positive ions (bipolar analysis) without the need to change source ionization conditions, and also not requiring the use of syringes and delivery pumps. Because of such features, especially because of the absence of ionization potentials, EASI can be operated with minimal requirements for source parameter optimization. We observed that source temperature and accelerating voltage do not seem to affect labile compounds to the extent they do in ESI-MS. In addition, bipolar analysis of proteins was demonstrated here by acquiring both positive and negative ion mass spectra from the same protein solutions

Lanthanides determination in red wine using ultrasound assisted extraction, flow injection, aerosol desolvation and ICP-MS.

PubMed

Bentlin, Fabrina R S; dos Santos, Clarissa M M; Flores, Erico M M; Pozebon, Dirce

2012-01-13

This paper deals with the determination of the fourteen naturally occurring elements of the lanthanide series in red wine. Ultrasound (US) was used for sample preparation prior lanthanides determination using ICP-MS. Flow injection (FI) and pneumatic nebulization/aerosol desolvation were used for nebulization of aliquots of 50 μL of sample and its subsequent transportation to plasma. Sample preparation procedures, matrix interference and time of sonication were evaluated. Better results for lanthanides in red wine were obtained by sonication with US probe for 90 s and sample 10-fold diluted. The limits of detection of La, Ce, Nd, Sm, Gd, Pr, Eu, Tb, Dy, Ho, Er, Tm, Lu and Yb were 6.57, 10.8, 9.97, 9.38, 2.71, 1.29, 1.22, 0.52, 2.35, 0.96, 2.30, 0.45, 0.24 and 1.35 ng L(-1), respectively. Red wines of different varieties from three countries of South America were discriminated according to the country of origin by means of multivariate analysis of lanthanides concentration. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Effect of Heat Moisture Exchanger on Aerosol Drug Delivery and Airway Resistance in Simulated Ventilator-Dependent Adults Using Jet and Mesh Nebulizers.

PubMed

Ari, Arzu; Dang, Truong; Al Enazi, Fahad H; Alqahtani, Mohammed M; Alkhathami, Abdulrahman; Qoutah, Rowaida; Almamary, Ahmad S; Fink, James B

2018-02-01

Placement of a heat moisture exchanger (HME) between aerosol generator and patient has been associated with greatly reduced drug delivery. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of filtered and nonfiltered HMEs placed between nebulizer and patient on aerosol deposition and airway resistance (Raw) in simulated ventilator-dependent adults. An in vitro lung model was developed to simulate a mechanically ventilated adult (Vt 500 mL, RR 15/min, and PEEP 5 cmH 2 O, using two inspiratory flow rates 40 and 50 L/min) using an intubated adult manikin with an endotracheal tube (8 mmID). The bronchi of the manikin were connected to a Y-adapter through a collecting filter (Respirgard II) attached to a test lung through a heated humidifier (37°C producing 100% relative humidity) to simulate exhaled humidity. For treatment conditions, a nonfiltered HME (ThermoFlo™ 6070; ARC Medical) and filtered HMEs (ThermoFlo™ Filter; ARC Medical and PALL Ultipor; Pall Medical) were placed between the ventilator circuit at the endotracheal tube and allowed to acclimate to the exhaled heat and humidity for 30 minutes before aerosol administration. Airway resistance (cmH 2 O/L/s) was taken at 0, 10, 20, and 30 minutes after HME placement and after each of four aerosol treatments. Albuterol sulfate (2.5 mg/3 mL) was administered with jet (Misty Max 10; Airlife) and mesh (Aerogen Solo; Aerogen) nebulizers positioned in the inspiratory limb proximal to the Y-adapter. Control consisted of nebulization with no HME. Drug was eluted from filter at the end of the trachea and measured using spectrophotometry (276 nm). Greater than 60% of the control dose was delivered through the ThermoFlo. No significant difference was found between the first four treatments given by the jet (p = 0.825) and the mesh (p = 0.753) nebulizers. There is a small increase in Raw between pre- and post-four treatments with the jet (p = 0.001) and mesh (p = 0.015) nebulizers. Aerosol

ULTRASONIC NEBULIZATION AND ARSENIC VALENCE STATE CONSIDERATIONS PRIOR TO DETERMINATION VIA INDUCTIVELY COUPLED PLASMA MASS SPECTROMETRY

EPA Science Inventory

An ultrasonic nebulizer (USN) was utilized as a sample introduction device for an inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer in an attempt to increase the sensitivity for As. The USN produced a valence state response difference for As. The As response was suppressed approximate...

The Effects of Smartphone-based Nebulizer Therapy Education on Parents' Knowledge and Confidence of Performance in Caring for Children with Respiratory Disease.

PubMed

Lee, Jung Min; Kim, Shin-Jeong; Min, Hae Young

This study aimed to identify the effects of smartphone-based nebulizer therapy education on the knowledge and confidence of parents while performing care for their children with respiratory disease. This quasi-experimental study employed a pretest-posttest design using a nonequivalent control group. Data were collected from children's parents who had not used nebulizer therapy for their children previously. Both the groups were given nebulizer therapy education using the same content but different learning methods. The experimental group (n=36) was taught using smartphones, while the control group (n=36) was taught using verbal and paper-based methods. The data were analyzed using the Chi Square test, repeated measures analysis of variance, and t-test. The mean scores on knowledge improvement (F=100.949, p<0.001) and confidence in performing care (t=-6.959, p<0.001) were significantly higher for the experimental group as compared to the control group. Further, the scores on satisfaction with the learning method were significantly higher for the experimental group as compared to the control group (t=-5.819, p<0.001). Our results suggest that smartphone-based education on nebulizer therapy might be effective in improving parents' knowledge and confidence in performing care for their children. This study suggests that smartphone-based education needs to be considered as an effective educational intervention in providing nursing support for parents of children with respiratory disease. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Escherichia coli DinB inhibits replication fork progression without significantly inducing the SOS response.

PubMed

Mori, Tetsuya; Nakamura, Tatsuro; Okazaki, Naoto; Furukohri, Asako; Maki, Hisaji; Akiyama, Masahiro Tatsumi

2012-01-01

The SOS response is readily triggered by replication fork stalling caused by DNA damage or a dysfunctional replicative apparatus in Escherichia coli cells. E. coli dinB encodes DinB DNA polymerase and its expression is upregulated during the SOS response. DinB catalyzes translesion DNA synthesis in place of a replicative DNA polymerase III that is stalled at a DNA lesion. We showed previously that DNA replication was suppressed without exogenous DNA damage in cells overproducing DinB. In this report, we confirm that this was due to a dose-dependent inhibition of ongoing replication forks by DinB. Interestingly, the DinB-overproducing cells did not significantly induce the SOS response even though DNA replication was perturbed. RecA protein is activated by forming a nucleoprotein filament with single-stranded DNA, which leads to the onset of the SOS response. In the DinB-overproducing cells, RecA was not activated to induce the SOS response. However, the SOS response was observed after heat-inducible activation in strain recA441 (encoding a temperature-sensitive RecA) and after replication blockage in strain dnaE486 (encoding a temperature-sensitive catalytic subunit of the replicative DNA polymerase III) at a non-permissive temperature when DinB was overproduced in these cells. Furthermore, since catalytically inactive DinB could avoid the SOS response to a DinB-promoted fork block, it is unlikely that overproduced DinB takes control of primer extension and thus limits single-stranded DNA. These observations suggest that DinB possesses a feature that suppresses DNA replication but does not abolish the cell's capacity to induce the SOS response. We conclude that DinB impedes replication fork progression in a way that does not activate RecA, in contrast to obstructive DNA lesions and dysfunctional replication machinery.

Laryngeal Desiccation Challenge and Nebulized Isotonic Saline in Healthy Male Singers and Nonsingers: Effects on Acoustic, Aerodynamic, and Self-Perceived Effort and Dryness Measures.

PubMed

Tanner, Kristine; Fujiki, Robert B; Dromey, Christopher; Merrill, Ray M; Robb, Whitney; Kendall, Katherine A; Hopkin, J Arden; Channell, Ron W; Sivasankar, M Preeti

2016-11-01

This study examined the effects of a laryngeal desiccation challenge and nebulized isotonic saline on voice production in young, healthy male singers and nonsingers. This is a prospective, double-blind, within-subjects experimental design. Participants included 10 male university-trained singers and 10 age-matched nonsingers (mean age, 21.8 years; range, 18-26 years) who underwent a 30-minute oral breathing laryngeal desiccation challenge using medical grade dry air (<1% relative humidity) on two occasions in consecutive weeks. After the challenge, participants received either 3 mL or 9 mL of nebulized isotonic saline (0.9% Na + Cl - ); order of administration was counterbalanced. Phonation threshold pressure (PTP), the cepstral spectral index of dysphonia (CSID) for sustained vowels and connected speech, and self-perceived vocal effort, mouth dryness, and throat dryness were measured at each recording (baseline, after challenge, and at 5, 35, and 65 minutes after treatment). Self-perceived effort and dryness measures increased (worsened) after desiccation challenge and decreased (improved) after nebulized treatment (P < 0.05). No consistent changes were observed for PTP or CSID over time. Overall, singers demonstrated significantly lower vocal effort and CSID as compared with nonsingers. Young, vocally healthy men may not experience physiologic changes in voice production associated with laryngeal desiccation and nebulized saline treatments; however, self-reported increases in vocal effort which are associated with dryness symptoms might improve with nebulized treatments. Future hydration research should consider age and sex variables. Copyright © 2016 The Voice Foundation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Fluorescence assessment of the delivery and distribution of nebulized indocyanine green in a murine model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kassab, Giulia; C. Geralde, Mariana; M. Inada, Natalia; Bagnato, Vanderlei S.

2018-02-01

Photodynamic inactivation (PDI) is a promising alternative for the treatment of infectious diseases, and the combination of indocyanine green (ICG) and extracorporeal infrared light has shown optimistic results against pneumonia in vitro and in vivo. However, the pharmacokinetics and the possible side effects of the pulmonary delivery via nebulization have not been fully investigated. This study assessed the distribution of the photosensitizer within the lungs and to other organs of mice, and monitored the fluorescence of ICG in the thorax in the presence and absence of the activating light. The excitation wavelength was 780 nm and detection focused on the emission between 795 and 890 nm. Experiments demonstrated that the amount of fluorescence detected from outside the body was significantly higher after the nebulization of ICG, and reduced after the illumination, allowing for the monitoring of the PDI in real time. The fluorescence remained detectable in the mice for at least 24 hours, and was present in the lungs, stomach, liver, small and large intestines, bladder, spleen and heart after this time.

Nebulized hypertonic-saline vs epinephrine for bronchiolitis; proof of concept study of cumulative sum (CUSUM) analysis.

PubMed

Gupta, Neeraj; Puliyel, Ashish; Manchanda, Ayush; Puliyel, Jacob

2012-07-01

To apply cumulative sum (CUSUM) to monitor a drug trial of nebulized hypertonic-saline in bronchiolitis. To test if monitoring with CUSUM control lines is practical and useful as a prompt to stop the drug trial early, if the study drug performs significantly worse than the comparator drug. Prospective, open label, controlled trial using standard therapy (epinephrine) and study drug (hypertonic-saline) sequentially in two groups of patients. Hospital offering tertiary-level pediatric care. Children, 2 months to 2 years, with first episode of bronchiolitis, excluding those with cardiac disease, immunodeficiency and critical illness at presentation. Nebulized epinephrine in first half of the bronchiolitis season (n = 35) and hypertonic saline subsequently (n = 29). Continuous monitoring of response to hypertonic-saline using CUSUM control charts developed with epinephrine-response data. Clinical score, tachycardia and total duration of hospital stay. In the epinephrine group, the maximum CUSUM was +2.25 (SD 1.34) and minimum CUSUM was -2.26 (SD 1.34). CUSUM score with hypertonic saline group stayed above the zero line throughout the study. There was no statistical difference in the post-treatment clinical score at 24 hours between the treatment groups {Mean (SD) 3.516 (2.816): 3.552 (2.686); 95% CI: -1.416 to 1.356}, heart rate {Mean (SD) 136 (44): 137(12); 95% CI: -17.849 to 15.849) or duration of hospital stay (Mean (SD) 96.029 (111.41): 82.914 (65.940); 95% CI: -33.888 to 60.128}. The software we developed allows for drawing of control lines to monitor study drug performance. Hypertonic saline performed as well or better than nebulized epinephrine in bronchiolitis.

Impact of airborne particle size, acoustic airflow and breathing pattern on delivery of nebulized antibiotic into the maxillary sinuses using a realistic human nasal replica.

PubMed

Leclerc, Lara; Pourchez, Jérémie; Aubert, Gérald; Leguellec, Sandrine; Vecellio, Laurent; Cottier, Michèle; Durand, Marc

2014-09-01

Improvement of clinical outcome in patients with sinuses disorders involves targeting delivery of nebulized drug into the maxillary sinuses. We investigated the impact of nebulization conditions (with and without 100 Hz acoustic airflow), particle size (9.9 μm, 2.8 μm, 550 nm and 230 nm) and breathing pattern (nasal vs. no nasal breathing) on enhancement of aerosol delivery into the sinuses using a realistic nasal replica developed by our team. After segmentation of the airways by means of high-resolution computed tomography scans, a well-characterized nasal replica was created using a rapid prototyping technology. A total of 168 intrasinus aerosol depositions were performed with changes of aerosol particle size and breathing patterns under different nebulization conditions using gentamicin as a marker. The results demonstrate that the fraction of aerosol deposited in the maxillary sinuses is enhanced by use of submicrometric aerosols, e.g. 8.155 ± 1.476 mg/L of gentamicin in the left maxillary sinus for the 2.8 μm particles vs. 2.056 ± 0.0474 for the 550 nm particles. Utilization of 100-Hz acoustic airflow nebulization also produced a 2- to 3-fold increase in drug deposition in the maxillary sinuses (e.g. 8.155 ± 1.476 vs. 3.990 ± 1.690 for the 2.8 μm particles). Our study clearly shows that optimum deposition was achieved using submicrometric particles and 100-Hz acoustic airflow nebulization with no nasal breathing. It is hoped that our new respiratory nasal replica will greatly facilitate the development of more effective delivery systems in the future.

Physicochemical compatibility of mixtures of dornase alfa and tobramycin containing nebulizer solutions.

PubMed

Krämer, Irene; Schwabe, Astrid; Lichtinghagen, Ralf; Kamin, Wolfgang

2009-02-01

Patients suffering from cystic fibrosis (CF) often need to inhale multiple doses of different nebulizable drugs per day. Patients attempt to shorten the time consuming administration procedure by mixing drug solutions/suspensions for simultaneous inhalation. The objective of this experimental study was to determine whether mixtures of the nebulizer solution dornase alfa (Pulmozyme) with tobramycin nebulizer solutions (TOBI and GERNEBCIN 80 mg) are physico-chemically compatible. Drug combinations were prepared by mixing the content of one respule Pulmozyme with either one respule TOBI or one ampoule GERNEBCIN 80 mg. Test solutions were stored at room temperature and exposed to light. Dornase alfa activity and tobramycin concentrations were determined by using a kinetic colorimetric DNase activity assay and a fluorescence immunoassay, respectively. Physical compatibility was determined by visual inspection and measurements of pH and osmolality. Tobramycin concentration was not affected by mixing the drug products. In spite of the high variability of the dornase alfa potency assay, it is obvious that activity is especially affected by sodium metabisulfite, used as excipient in GERNEBCIN. Patients should be advised, not to mix Pulmozyme with GERNEBCIN because of the incompatibility reaction. Further analytical studies are needed in order to determine the integrity and activity of dornase alfa in mixtures of Pulmozyme with TOBI. Finally clinical studies are necessary in order to demonstrate equivalent efficacy and safety of simultaneous inhalation in comparison to consecutive inhalation of both drugs. (c) 2008 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Use of nebulized antimicrobials for the treatment of respiratory infections in invasively mechanically ventilated adults: a position paper from the European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases.

PubMed

Rello, J; Solé-Lleonart, C; Rouby, J-J; Chastre, J; Blot, S; Poulakou, G; Luyt, C-E; Riera, J; Palmer, L B; Pereira, J M; Felton, T; Dhanani, J; Bassetti, M; Welte, T; Roberts, J A

2017-09-01

With an established role in cystic fibrosis and bronchiectasis, nebulized antibiotics are increasingly being used to treat respiratory infections in critically ill invasively mechanically ventilated adult patients. Although there is limited evidence describing their efficacy and safety, in an era when there is a need for new strategies to enhance antibiotic effectiveness because of a shortage of new agents and increases in antibiotic resistance, the potential of nebulization of antibiotics to optimize therapy is considered of high interest, particularly in patients infected with multidrug-resistant pathogens. This Position Paper of the European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases provides recommendations based on the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) methodology regarding the use of nebulized antibiotics in invasively mechanically ventilated adults, based on a systematic review and meta-analysis of the existing literature (last search July 2016). Overall, the panel recommends avoiding the use of nebulized antibiotics in clinical practice, due to a weak level of evidence of their efficacy and the high potential for underestimated risks of adverse events (particularly, respiratory complications). Higher-quality evidence is urgently needed to inform clinical practice. Priorities of future research are detailed in the second part of the Position Paper as guidance for researchers in this field. In particular, the panel identified an urgent need for randomized clinical trials of nebulized antibiotic therapy as part of a substitution approach to treatment of pneumonia due to multidrug-resistant pathogens. Copyright © 2017 European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Efficacy and safety of glycopyrrolate/eFlow® CS (nebulized glycopyrrolate) in moderate-to-very-severe COPD: Results from the glycopyrrolate for obstructive lung disease via electronic nebulizer (GOLDEN) 3 and 4 randomized controlled trials.

PubMed

Kerwin, Edward; Donohue, James F; Goodin, Thomas; Tosiello, Robert; Wheeler, Alistair; Ferguson, Gary T

2017-11-01

SUN-101 is a combination of glycopyrrolate delivered through an innovative, electronic nebulizer, intended for the treatment of patients with COPD. The objective of this study was to assess the efficacy and safety of this new drug device combination. Replicate Phase III randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled studies were conducted to evaluate the efficacy and safety of glycopyrrolate solution administered by an investigational eFlow ® Closed System (eFlow ® CS) nebulizer in subjects with moderate-to-very-severe COPD, including those with continued background use of a long-acting beta 2 -agonist ± inhaled corticosteroid and/or history of cardiovascular (CV) disease. Subjects were randomized in a 1:1:1 ratio to receive placebo or glycopyrrolate (25 μg or 50 μg twice daily [BID]) for 12 weeks. The primary efficacy endpoint was the change from baseline in trough forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV 1 ) at Week 12 compared with placebo. Secondary endpoints included change from baseline in forced vital capacity (FVC) after 12 weeks, change from baseline in health status measured by St George's Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ) at 12 weeks/end of study (EOS), and change in rescue medication use, as well as change from baseline in FEV 1 area under the curve from 0 to 12 h after 12 weeks in the GOLDEN 3 sub-study. Daytime and night-time symptoms were recorded using an electronic diary. Safety was monitored throughout the study, including major adverse cardiovascular events. A total of 653 subjects were randomized in GOLDEN 3 and 641 in GOLDEN 4. Treatment with glycopyrrolate 25 μg BID and 50 μg BID resulted in statistically significant and clinically important changes from baseline in trough FEV 1 compared with placebo at Week 12 (GOLDEN 3: 0.105 L and 0.126 L; p ≤ 0.0001; GOLDEN 4: 0.084 L and 0.082 L; p ≤ 0.0001). Nebulized glycopyrrolate 25 μg BID and 50 μg BID also resulted in improvements in FVC change from baseline versus placebo at

Technical note: Air compared to nitrogen as nebulizing and drying gases for electrospray ionization mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Mielczarek, P; Silberring, J; Smoluch, M

In the present study we tested the application of compressed air instead of pure nitrogen as the nebulizing and drying gas, and its influence on the quality of electrospray ionization (ESI) mass spectra. The intensities of the signals corresponding to protonated molecules were significantly (twice) higher when air was used. Inspection of signal-to-noise (S/N) ratios revealed that, in both cases, sensitivity was comparable. A higher ion abundance after the application of compressed air was followed by a higher background. Another potential risk of using air in the ESI source is the possibility for sample oxidation due to the presence of oxygen. To test this, we selected five easily oxidizing compounds to verify their susceptibility to oxidation. In particular, the presence of methionine was of interest. For all the compounds studied, no oxidation was observed. Amodiaquine oxidizes spontaneously in water solutions and its oxidized form can be detected a few hours after preparation. Direct comparison of the spectra where nitrogen was used with the corresponding spectra obtained when air was applied did not show significant differences. The only distinction was slightly different patterns of adducts when air was used. The difference concerns acetonitrile, which forms higher signals when air is the nebulizing gas. It is also important that the replacement of nitrogen with air does not affect quantitative data. The prepared calibration curves also visualize an intensity twice as high (independent of concentration within tested range) of the signal where air was applied. We have used our system continuously for three months with air as the nebulizing and drying gas and have not noticed any unexpected signal deterioration caused by additional source contamination from the air. Moreover, compressed air is much cheaper and easily available using oil-free compressors or pumps.

Nebulized fentanyl vs intravenous morphine for ED patients with acute abdominal pain: a randomized double-blinded, placebo-controlled clinical trial.

PubMed

Deaton, Travis; Auten, Jonathan D; Darracq, Michael A

2015-06-01

Patients with acute abdominal pain commonly present to emergency departments. The safe and effective relief of discomfort is a concern to patients and physicians. Intravenous opioids are the traditional method used to provide pain relief in this setting, but intravenous access is time consuming and not always achievable. Alternative methods of pain control may therefore be necessary for the acute management of painful conditions without adding to the overall physical or psychological discomfort. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of nebulized fentanyl (NF) in the alleviation of acute and undifferentiated abdominal pain. We also sought to compare NF with intravenous morphine (IVM) and to assess patient and provider satisfaction with NF. Nebulized fentanyl (2 μg/kg) was compared to IVM (0.1 mg/kg) at 10, 20, 30, and 40 minutes; and patient and physician satisfaction was recorded. The NF group experienced more rapid pain relief and more sustained and clinically significant pain relief over the 40-minute study interval. There were no adverse effects noted in the NF group. Both patient and physician satisfaction scores were higher in the NF group. Fentanyl citrate at a dose of 2 μg/kg through a breath-actuated nebulizer appears to be a feasible and safe alternative to IVM (0.1 mg/kg) in the treatment of acute abdominal pain. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Statistical inference in comparing DInSAR and GPS data in fault areas

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Barzaghi, R.; Borghi, A.; Kunzle, A.

2012-04-01

DInSAR and GPS data are nowadays currently used in geophysical investigation, e.g. for estimating slip rate over the fault plane in seismogenic areas. This analysis is usually done by mapping the surface deformation rates as estimated by GPS and DInSAR over the fault plane using suitable geophysical models (e.g. the Okada model). Usually, DInSAR vertical velocities and GPS horizontal velocities are used for getting an integrated slip estimate. However, it is sometimes critical to merge the two kinds of information since they may reflect a common undergoing geophysical signal plus different disturbing signals that are not related to the fault dynamic. In GPS and DInSAR data analysis, these artifacts are mainly connected to signal propagation in the atmosphere and to hydrological phenomena (e.g. variation in the water table). Thus, some coherence test between the two information must be carried out in order to properly merge the GPS and DInSAR velocities in the inversion procedure. To this aim, statistical tests have been studied to check for the compatibility of the two deformation rate estimates coming from GPS and DInSAR data analysis. This has been done according both to standard and Bayesian testing methodology. The effectiveness of the proposed inference methods has been checked with numerical simulations in the case of a normal fault. The fault structure is defined following the Pollino fault model and both GPS and DInSAR data are simulated according to real data acquired in this area.

Multiple pathways for SOS-induced mutagenesis in Escherichia coli: An overexpression of dinB/dinP results in strongly enhancing mutagenesis in the absence of any exogenous treatment to damage DNA

PubMed Central

Kim, Su-Ryang; Maenhaut-Michel, Geneviéve; Yamada, Masami; Yamamoto, Yoshihiro; Matsui, Keiko; Sofuni, Toshio; Nohmi, Takehiko; Ohmori, Haruo

1997-01-01

dinP is an Escherichia coli gene recently identified at 5.5 min of the genetic map, whose product shows a similarity in amino acid sequence to the E. coli UmuC protein involved in DNA damage-induced mutagenesis. In this paper we show that the gene is identical to dinB, an SOS gene previously localized near the lac locus at 8 min, the function of which was shown to be required for mutagenesis of nonirradiated λ phage infecting UV-preirradiated bacterial cells (termed λUTM for λ untargeted mutagenesis). A newly constructed dinP null mutant exhibited the same defect for λUTM as observed previously with a dinB::Mu mutant, and the defect was complemented by plasmids carrying dinP as the only intact bacterial gene. Furthermore, merely increasing the dinP gene expression, without UV irradiation or any other DNA-damaging treatment, resulted in a strong enhancement of mutagenesis in F′lac plasmids; at most, 800-fold increase in the G6-to-G5 change. The enhanced mutagenesis did not depend on recA, uvrA, or umuDC. Thus, our results establish that E. coli has at least two distinct pathways for SOS-induced mutagenesis: one dependent on umuDC and the other on dinB/P. PMID:9391106

[Efficacy of nebulizer therapy with acetylcystein in outpatients with chronic obstructive lung disease].

PubMed

Stepanishcheva, L A; Ignatova, G L; Blinova, E V

2005-01-01

Chronic obstructive lung disease (COLD) is a widespread illness with constantly growing mortality. Mucolytic therapy plays a significant role in treatment of patients with COLD. The paper contains the results of nebulization with acetyl-cystein as part of rehabilitation program in outpatients with stable clinical course of I-II stage of COLD. The results demonstrated significant clinical improvement, as well as positive changes in external respiration parameters (1 sforced expiratory volume), increase of physical activity tolerance, and disappearance of acute inflammation phase reactants in saliva.

Nebulized heparin and N-acetylcysteine for smoke inhalational injury: A case report.

PubMed

Ashraf, Umair; Bajantri, Bharat; Roa-Gomez, Gabriella; Venkatram, Sindhaghatta; Cantin, Amanda; Diaz-Fuentes, Gilda

2018-05-01

Every year, ∼40,000 people suffer burn-related injuries in the United States. Despite recent advances, the odds of dying from exposure to fire, flames, or smoke are one in ∼1500. Smoke inhalation causes injury to the airways via a complex physiological process, and the treatment is mainly supportive. Many recent interventions aim to decrease the formation of fibrin casts, the main cause of airway damage in these patients. Among these, treatment with a combination of nebulized heparin and N-acetylcysteine (NAC) has shown benefit. We describe the case of a 58-year-old man who presented after smoke inhalation during a fire. Soot was found in the nostrils when he was admitted to our hospital, and after he began coughing up carbonaceous material, he was electively intubated and placed on volume assist control ventilation. Bronchoscopy on the first day of intensive care confirmed the injury from smoke inhalation and revealed mucosal edema and soot involving the tracheobronchial tree. Inhaled unfractionated heparin of 10,000 IU in 3 mL of 0.9% normal saline alternating every 2 hours with 3 mL of 20% NAC was started 48 hours after admission and continued for 7 days. Bronchoscopy on the fifth day of intensive care showed significant improvement in airway edema and a resolution of soot. On the basis of our experience with this case and limited literature, we posit that nebulized heparin and NAC may be of benefit in patients with inhalational smoke-induced lung injury and mild-to-severe lung injury scores.

Benzalkonium Chloride: A Bronchoconstricting Preservative in Continuous Albuterol Nebulizer Solutions.

PubMed

Prabhakaran, Sreekala; Abu-Hasan, Mutasim; Hendeles, Leslie

2017-05-01

For convenience, many pediatric hospitals are preparing solutions for continuous nebulized albuterol using the 0.5% 20-ml multidose albuterol dropper bottle. This product contains benzalkonium chloride (BAC) that, by itself, produces bronchospasm that is dose dependent and cumulative. The bronchoconstrictive effects of BAC are greater in patients with more severe airway obstruction and increased airway responsiveness. Use of BAC-containing albuterol during severe acute asthma exacerbations may antagonize the bronchodilator response to albuterol, prolong treatment, and increase the risk of albuterol-related systemic adverse effects. Such a deleterious effect of BAC is difficult to detect because some patients improve slowly or may even worsen during treatment. We recommend that only preservative-free albuterol products be used. © 2017 Pharmacotherapy Publications, Inc.

Characteristics of Riverine DIN Export in Subtropical High-standing Island, Taiwan

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Huang, J. C.; Kao, S. J.; Lee, T. Y.; Lin, T. C.

2016-12-01

Increases in nitrogen (N) availability and mobility resulting from anthropogenic activities has substantially altered nitrogen cycle both locally and globally. Taiwan characterized by the subtropical montane landscape with abundant rainfall, downwind to the most rapidly industrializing east coast of China can be a demonstration site for extreme high N input and riverine DIN (dissolved inorganic N) export. We used 49 watersheds with similar climatic and landscape settings, but classified into low-, moderate-, and highly-disturbed categories based on population density to illustrate their differences in nitrogen inputs through atmospheric N deposition, synthetic fertilizer and human emission and DIN export ratios. Our results showed that the island-wide average riverine DIN export is 3800 kg-N/km2yr, approximately 18-fold higher than the global average mostly due to the large input of synthetic fertilizer. The average riverine DIN export ratio is 0.30-0.51, which is much higher than the average of 0.20-0.25 of large rivers around the world indicating excessive N input relative to ecosystem demand or retention capacity. The low-disturbed watersheds despite of high input only export 0.06-0.18 of the input and well buffered to changes in input quantity suggesting high efficiency of nitrogen usage or high N retention capacity of the less disturbed watersheds. The moderate-disturbed watersheds show a linear increase of output with increases in total N inputs and a mean DIN export ratio of 0.20 to 0.31. The main differences in land use between low and moderately disturbed watershed are the relative proportions of agricultural land and forests, not the built-up lands. The export ratio of the highly-disturbed watersheds is 0.42-0.53, which is very high and suggests that much of the N input is transported downstream. The increases in riverine DIN export ratio along with the gradient of human disturbance in subtropical Taiwan shows a gradient in excess N saturation. Our

Nebulized water cooling of the canopy affects leaf temperature, berry composition and wine quality of Sauvignon blanc.

PubMed

Paciello, Pericle; Mencarelli, Fabio; Palliotti, Alberto; Ceccantoni, Brunella; Thibon, Cécile; Darriet, Philippe; Pasquini, Massimiliano; Bellincontro, Andrea

2017-03-01

The present paper details a new technique based on spraying nebulized water on vine canopy to counteract the negative impact of the current wave of hot summers with temperatures above 30 °C, which usually determine negative effects on vine yield, grape composition and wine quality. The automatized spraying system was able to maintain air temperature at below 30 °C (the threshold temperature to start spraying) for all of August 2013, when in the canopy of uncooled vines the temperature was as high as 36 °C. The maintenance of temperature below 30 °C reduced leaf stress linked to high temperature and irradiance regimes as highlighted by the decrease of H 2 O 2 content and catalase activity in the leaves. A higher amount of total polyphenols and organic acids and lower sugars characterized the grapes of cooled vines. Wine from these grapes had a higher content of some volatile thiols like 3-sulfanylhexanol (3SH) and 3-sulfanylhexylacetate (3SHA), and lower content of 4-methyl-4-sulfanylpentan-2-one (4MSP). Under conditions of high temperature and irradiance regimes, water nebulization on the vine canopy can represent a valid solution to reduce and/or avoid oxidative stress and associated effects in the leaves, ensure a regular berry ripening and maintain high wine quality. The consumption of water during nebulization was acceptable, being 180 L ha -1 min -1 , which lasted an average of about 1 min to reduce the temperature below the threshold value of 30 °C. A total of 85-90 hL (from 0.8 to 0.9 mm) of water per hectare per day was required. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry.

Increasing anthropogenic nitrogen inputs and riverine DIN exports from the Changjiang River basin under changing human pressures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yan, Weijin; Mayorga, Emilio; Li, Xinyan; Seitzinger, Sybil P.; Bouwman, A. F.

2010-12-01

In this paper, we estimate the inputs of nitrogen (N) and exports of dissolved inorganic nitrogen (DIN) from the Changjiang River to the estuary for the period 1970-2003, by using the global NEWS-DIN model. Modeled DIN yields range from 260 kg N km-2 yr-1 in 1970 to 895 kg N km-2 yr-1 in 2003, with an increasing trend. The study demonstrated a varied contribution of different N inputs to river DIN yields during the period 1970-2003. Chemical fertilizer and manure together contributed about half of the river DIN yields, while atmospheric N deposition contributed an average of 21% of DIN yields in the period 1970-2003. Biological N fixation contributed 40% of DIN yields in 1970, but substantially decreased to 13% in 2003. Point sewage N input also showed a decreasing trend in contribution to DIN yields, with an average of 8% over the whole period. We also discuss possible future trajectories of DIN export based on the Global NEWS implementation of the Millennium Ecosystem Assessment scenarios. Our result indicates that anthropogenically enhanced N inputs dominate and will continue to dominate river DIN yields under changing human pressures in the basin. Therefore, nitrogen pollution is and will continue to be a great challenge to China.

Voluntary inhalation of methamphetamine: a novel strategy for studying intake non-invasively.

PubMed

Juarez-Portilla, C; Kim, R D; Robotham, M; Tariq, M; Pitter, M; LeSauter, J; Silver, R

2017-03-01

The abuse of the psychostimulant methamphetamine (MA) is associated with substantial costs and limited treatment options. To understand the mechanisms that lead to abuse, animal models of voluntary drug intake are crucial. We aimed to develop a protocol to study long-term non-invasive voluntary intake of MA in mice. Mice were maintained in their home cages and allowed daily 1 h access to an attached tunnel leading to a test chamber in which nebulized MA was available. Restated, if they went to the nebulizing chamber, they self-administered MA by inhalation. This protocol was compared to injected and to imposed exposure to nebulized MA, in a series of seven experiments. We established a concentration of nebulized MA at which motor activity increases following voluntary intake resembled that following MA injection and imposed inhalation. We found that mice regulated their exposure to MA, self-administering for shorter durations when concentrations of nebulized MA were increased. Mice acquire the available MA by repeatedly running in and out of the nebulizing chamber for brief bouts of intake. Such exposure to nebulized MA elevated plasma MA levels. There was limited evidence of sensitization of locomotor activity. Finally, blocking access to the wheel did not affect time spent in the nebulizing chamber. We conclude that administration of MA by nebulization is an effective route of self-administration, and our new protocol represents a promising tool for examining the transitions from first intake to long-term use and its behavioral and neural consequences in a non-invasive protocol.

The effect of nebulized salbutamol or isotonic saline on exercise-induced bronchoconstriction in elite skaters following a 1,500-meter race: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Driessen, Jean M M; Gerritsma, Margryt; Westbroek, Jaap; ten Hacken, Nick H T; de Jongh, Frans H C

2013-07-09

Prevalence of exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB) is high in elite athletes, especially after many years training in cold and dry air conditions. The primary treatment of EIB is inhaling a short-acting beta-2-agonist such as salbutamol. However, professional speed skaters also inhale nebulized isotonic saline or tap water before and after a race or intense training. The use of nebulized isotonic saline or tap water to prevent EIB has not been studied before, raising questions about safety and efficacy. The aim of this study is to analyze the acute effect of nebulized isotonic saline or salbutamol on EIB in elite speed skaters following a 1,500-meter race. This randomized controlled trial compares single dose treatment of 1 mg nebulized salbutamol in 4 mL of isotonic saline, or with 5 mL of isotonic saline. A minimum of 13 participants will be allocated in each treatment group. Participants should be between 18 and 35 years of age and able to skate 1,500 m in less than 2 min 10 s (women) or 2 min 05 s (men). Repeated measurements of spirometry, forced oscillation technique, and electromyography will be performed before and after an official 1,500-m race. Primary outcome of the study is the difference in fall in FEV1 after exercise in the different treatment groups. The trial is currently enrolling participants. Elite athletes run the risk of pulmonary inflammation and remodeling as a consequence of their frequent exercise, and thus increased ventilation in cold and dry environments. Although inhalation of nebulized isotonic saline is commonplace, no study has ever investigated the safety or efficacy of this treatment. This trial protocol was registered with the Dutch trial registration for clinical trials under number NTR3550.

Localized landslide risk assessment with multi pass L band DInSAR analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yun, HyeWon; Rack Kim, Jung; Lin, Shih-Yuan; Choi, YunSoo

2014-05-01

In terms of data availability and error correction, landslide forecasting by Differential Interferometric SAR (DInSAR) analysis is not easy task. Especially, the landslides by the anthropogenic construction activities frequently occurred in the localized cutting side of mountainous area. In such circumstances, it is difficult to attain sufficient enough accuracy because of the external factors inducing the error component in electromagnetic wave propagation. For instance, the local climate characteristics such as orographic effect and the proximity to water source can produce the significant anomalies in the water vapor distribution and consequently result in the error components of InSAR phase angle measurements. Moreover the high altitude parts of target area cause the stratified tropospheric delay error in DInSAR measurement. The other obstacle in DInSAR observation over the potential landside site is the vegetation canopy which causes the decorrelation of InSAR phase. Thus rather than C band sensor such as ENVISAT, ERS and RADARSAT, DInSAR analysis with L band ALOS PLASAR is more recommendable. Together with the introduction of L band DInSAR analysis, the improved DInSAR technique to cope all above obstacles is necessary. Thus we employed two approaches i.e. StaMPS/MTI (Stanford Method for Persistent Scatterers/Multi-Temporal InSAR, Hopper et al., 2007) which was newly developed for extracting the reliable deformation values through time series analysis and two pass DInSAR with the error term compensation based on the external weather information in this study. Since the water vapor observation from spaceborne radiometer is not feasible by the temporal gap in this case, the quantities from weather Research Forecasting (WRF) with 1 km spatial resolution was used to address the atmospheric phase error in two pass DInSAR analysis. Also it was observed that base DEM offset with time dependent perpendicular baselines of InSAR time series produce a significant error

Assessment of DInSAR Potential in Simulating Geological Subsurface Structure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fouladi Moghaddam, N.; Rudiger, C.; Samsonov, S. V.; Hall, M.; Walker, J. P.; Camporese, M.

2013-12-01

High resolution geophysical surveys, including seismic, gravity, magnetic, etc., provide valuable information about subsurface structuring but they are very costly and time consuming with non-unique and sometimes conflicting interpretations. Several recent studies have examined the application of DInSAR to estimate surface deformation, monitor possible fault reactivation and constrain reservoir dynamic behaviour in geothermal and groundwater fields. The main focus of these studies was to generate an elevation map, which represents the reservoir extraction induced deformation. This research study, however, will focus on developing methods to simulate subsurface structuring and identify hidden faults/hydraulic barriers using DInSAR surface observations, as an innovative and cost-effective reconnaissance exploration tool for planning of seismic acquisition surveys in geothermal and Carbon Capture and Sequestration regions. By direct integration of various DInSAR datasets with overlapping temporal and spatial coverage we produce multi-temporal ground deformation maps with high resolution and precision to evaluate the potential of a new multidimensional MSBAS technique (Samsonov & d'Oreye, 2012). The technique is based on the Small Baseline Subset Algorithm (SBAS) that is modified to account for variation in sensor parameters. It allows integration of data from sensors with different wave-band, azimuth and incidence angles, different spatial and temporal sampling and resolutions. These deformation maps then will be used as an input for inverse modelling to simulate strain history and shallow depth structure. To achieve the main objective of our research, i.e. developing a method for coupled InSAR and geophysical observations and better understanding of subsurface structuring, comparing DInSAR inverse modelling results with previously provided static structural model will result in iteratively modified DInSAR structural model for adequate match with in situ observations

Seasonal and multi-year surface displacements measured by DInSAR in a High Arctic permafrost environment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rudy, Ashley C. A.; Lamoureux, Scott F.; Treitz, Paul; Short, Naomi; Brisco, Brian

2018-02-01

Arctic landscapes undergo seasonal and long-term changes as the active layer thaws and freezes, which can result in localized or irregular subsidence leading to the formation of thermokarst terrain. Differential Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (DInSAR) is a technique capable of measuring ground surface displacements resulting from thawing permafrost at centimetre precision and is quickly gaining acceptance as a means of measuring ground displacement in permafrost regions. Using RADARSAT-2 stacked DInSAR data from 2013 and 2015 we determined the magnitude and patterns of land surface change in a continuous permafrost environment. At our study site situated in the Canadian High Arctic, DInSAR seasonal ground displacement patterns were consistent with field observations of permafrost degradation. As expected, many DInSAR values are close to the detection threshold (i.e., 1 cm) and therefore do not indicate significant change; however, DInSAR seasonal ground displacement patterns aligned well with climatological and soil conditions and offer geomorphological insight into subsurface processes in permafrost environments. While our dataset is limited to two years of data representing a three-year time period, the displacements derived from DInSAR provide insight into permafrost change in a High Arctic environment and demonstrate that DInSAR is an applicable tool for understanding environmental change in remote permafrost regions.

Apportioning riverine DIN load to export coefficients of land uses in an urbanized watershed.

PubMed

Shih, Yu-Ting; Lee, Tsung-Yu; Huang, Jr-Chuan; Kao, Shuh-Ji; Chang

2016-08-01

The apportionment of riverine dissolved inorganic nitrogen (DIN) load to individual land use on a watershed scale demands the support of accurate DIN load estimation and differentiation of point and non-point sources, but both of them are rarely quantitatively determined in small montane watersheds. We introduced the Danshui River watershed of Taiwan, a mountainous urbanized watershed, to determine the export coefficients via a reverse Monte Carlo approach from riverine DIN load. The results showed that the dynamics of N fluctuation determines the load estimation method and sampling frequency. On a monthly sampling frequency basis, the average load estimation of the methods (GM, FW, and LI) outperformed that of individual method. Export coefficient analysis showed that the forest DIN yield of 521.5kg-Nkm(-2)yr(-1) was ~2.7-fold higher than the global riverine DIN yield (mainly from temperate large rivers with various land use compositions). Such a high yield was attributable to high rainfall and atmospheric N deposition. The export coefficient of agriculture was disproportionately larger than forest suggesting that a small replacement of forest to agriculture could lead to considerable change of DIN load. The analysis of differentiation between point and non-point sources showed that the untreated wastewater (non-point source), accounting for ~93% of the total human-associated wastewater, resulted in a high export coefficient of urban. The inclusion of the treated and untreated wastewater completes the N budget of wastewater. The export coefficient approach serves well to assess the riverine DIN load and to improve the understanding of N cascade. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Inhaled, Nebulized Sodium Nitrite Protects In Murine and Porcine Experimental Models Of Hemorrhagic Shock and Resuscitation by Limiting Mitochondrial Injury

PubMed Central

Kautza, Benjamin; Gomez, Hernando; Escobar, Daniel; Corey, Catherine; Ataya, Bilal; Luciano, Jason; Botero, Ana Maria; Gordon, Lisa; Brumfield, John; Martinez, Silvia; Holder, Andre; Ogundele, Olufunmilayo; Pinsky, Michael; Shiva, Sruti; Zuckerbraun, Brian S.

2015-01-01

Objective The cellular injury that occurs in the setting of hemorrhagic shock and resuscitation (HS/R) affects all tissue types and can drive altered inflammatory responses. Resuscitative adjuncts hold the promise of decreasing such injury. Here we test the hypothesis that sodium nitrite (NaNO2), delivered as a nebulized solution via an inhalational route, protects against injury and inflammation from HS/R. Methods Mice underwent HS/R to a mean arterial pressure (MAP) of 20 or 25 mmHg. Mice were resuscitated with Lactated Ringers after 90–120 minutes of hypotension. Mice were randomized to receive nebulized NaNO2 via a flow through chamber (30mg in 5mL PBS). Pigs (30–35 kg) were anesthetized and bled to a MAP of 30–40 mmHg for 90 minutes, randomized to receive NaNO2 (11 mg in 2.5 mL PBS) nebulized into the ventilator circuit starting 60 minutes into the hypotensive period, followed by initial resuscitation with Hextend. Pigs had ongoing resuscitation and support for up to four hours. Hemodynamic data were collected continuously. Results NaNO2 limited organ injury and inflammation in murine hemorrhagic shock. A nitrate/nitrite depleted diet exacerbated organ injury, as well as mortality, and inhaled NaNO2 significantly reversed this effect. Furthermore, NaNO2 limited mitochondrial oxidant injury. In porcine HS/R, NaNO2 had no significant influence on shock induced hemodynamics. NaNO2 limited hypoxia/reoxia or HS/R-induced mitochondrial injury and promoted mitochondrial fusion. Conclusion NaNO2 may be a useful adjunct to shock resuscitation based on its limitation of mitochondrial injury. PMID:26410351

Determination of absorbed dose to water for high-energy photon and electron beams-comparison of the standards DIN 6800-2 (1997), IAEA TRS 398 (2000) and DIN 6800-2 (2006).

PubMed

Zakaria, Golam Abu; Schuette, Wilhelm

2007-01-01

For the determination of the absorbed dose to water for high-energy photon and electron beams the IAEA code of practice TRS-398 (2000) is applied internationally. In Germany, the German dosimetry protocol DIN 6800-2 (1997) is used. Recently, the DIN standard has been revised and published as Draft National Standard DIN 6800-2 (2006). It has adopted widely the methodology and dosimetric data of the code of practice. This paper compares these three dosimetry protocols systematically and identifies similarities as well as differences. The investigation was done with 6 and 18 MV photon as well as 5 to 21 MeV electron beams. While only cylindrical chambers were used for photon beams, measurements of electron beams were performed using cylindrical as well as plane-parallel chambers. The discrepancies in the determination of absorbed dose to water between the three protocols were 0.4% for photon beams and 1.5% for electron beams. Comparative measurements showed a deviation of less than 0.5% between our measurements following protocol DIN 6800-2 (2006) and TLD inter-comparison procedure in an external audit.

A COMPARISON OF URINARY ARSENIC SPECIATION VIA DIRECT NEBULIZATION AND ON-LINE PHOTOOXIDATION-HYDRIDE GENERATION WITH DETECTION BY INDUCTIVELY COUPLED PLASMA MASS SPECTROMETRY

EPA Science Inventory

Arsenic speciation continues to be important in assessing human and environmental exposure risk. Urinary arsenic analysis provides information on recent arsenic exposure. In this study, two sample introduction pathways: direct nebulization (DN) and hydride generation (HG) were ut...

Ultrasonic nebulization extraction-heating gas flow transfer-headspace single drop microextraction of essential oil from pericarp of Zanthoxylum bungeanum Maxim.

PubMed

Wei, Shigang; Zhang, Huihui; Wang, Yeqiang; Wang, Lu; Li, Xueyuan; Wang, Yinghua; Zhang, Hanqi; Xu, Xu; Shi, Yuhua

2011-07-22

The ultrasonic nebulization extraction-heating gas flow transfer coupled with headspace single drop microextraction (UNE-HGFT-HS-SDME) was developed for the extraction of essential oil from Zanthoxylum bungeanum Maxim. The gas chromatography-mass spectrometry was applied to the determination of the constituents in the essential oil. The contents of the constituents from essential oil obtained by the proposed method were found to be more similar to those obtained by hydro-distillation (HD) than those obtained by ultrasonic nebulization extraction coupled with headspace single drop microextraction (UNE-HS-SDME). The heating gas flow was firstly used in the analysis of the essential oil to transfer the analytes from the headspace to the solvent microdrop. The relative standard deviations for determining the five major constituents were in the range from 1.5 to 6.7%. The proposed method is a fast, sensitive, low cost and small sample consumption method for the determination of the volatile and semivolatile constituents in the plant materials. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

DinB Upregulation Is the Sole Role of the SOS Response in Stress-Induced Mutagenesis in Escherichia coli

PubMed Central

Galhardo, Rodrigo S.; Do, Robert; Yamada, Masami; Friedberg, Errol C.; Hastings, P. J.; Nohmi, Takehiko; Rosenberg, Susan M.

2009-01-01

Stress-induced mutagenesis is a collection of mechanisms observed in bacterial, yeast, and human cells in which adverse conditions provoke mutagenesis, often under the control of stress responses. Control of mutagenesis by stress responses may accelerate evolution specifically when cells are maladapted to their environments, i.e., are stressed. It is therefore important to understand how stress responses increase mutagenesis. In the Escherichia coli Lac assay, stress-induced point mutagenesis requires induction of at least two stress responses: the RpoS-controlled general/starvation stress response and the SOS DNA-damage response, both of which upregulate DinB error-prone DNA polymerase, among other genes required for Lac mutagenesis. We show that upregulation of DinB is the only aspect of the SOS response needed for stress-induced mutagenesis. We constructed two dinB(oc) (operator-constitutive) mutants. Both produce SOS-induced levels of DinB constitutively. We find that both dinB(oc) alleles fully suppress the phenotype of constitutively SOS-“off” lexA(Ind−) mutant cells, restoring normal levels of stress-induced mutagenesis. Thus, dinB is the only SOS gene required at induced levels for stress-induced point mutagenesis. Furthermore, although spontaneous SOS induction has been observed to occur in only a small fraction of cells, upregulation of dinB by the dinB(oc) alleles in all cells does not promote a further increase in mutagenesis, implying that SOS induction of DinB, although necessary, is insufficient to differentiate cells into a hypermutable condition. PMID:19270270

Determination of absorbed dose to water for high-energy photon and electron beams-comparison of the standards DIN 6800-2 (1997), IAEA TRS 398 (2000) and DIN 6800-2 (2006)

PubMed Central

Zakaria, Golam Abu; Schuette, Wilhelm

2007-01-01

For the determination of the absorbed dose to water for high-energy photon and electron beams the IAEA code of practice TRS-398 (2000) is applied internationally. In Germany, the German dosimetry protocol DIN 6800-2 (1997) is used. Recently, the DIN standard has been revised and published as Draft National Standard DIN 6800-2 (2006). It has adopted widely the methodology and dosimetric data of the code of practice. This paper compares these three dosimetry protocols systematically and identifies similarities as well as differences. The investigation was done with 6 and 18 MV photon as well as 5 to 21 MeV electron beams. While only cylindrical chambers were used for photon beams, measurements of electron beams were performed using cylindrical as well as plane-parallel chambers. The discrepancies in the determination of absorbed dose to water between the three protocols were 0.4% for photon beams and 1.5% for electron beams. Comparative measurements showed a deviation of less than 0.5% between our measurements following protocol DIN 6800-2 (2006) and TLD inter-comparison procedure in an external audit. PMID:21217912

An empirical method to cluster objective nebulizer adherence data among adults with cystic fibrosis.

PubMed

Hoo, Zhe H; Campbell, Michael J; Curley, Rachael; Wildman, Martin J

2017-01-01

The purpose of using preventative inhaled treatments in cystic fibrosis is to improve health outcomes. Therefore, understanding the relationship between adherence to treatment and health outcome is crucial. Temporal variability, as well as absolute magnitude of adherence affects health outcomes, and there is likely to be a threshold effect in the relationship between adherence and outcomes. We therefore propose a pragmatic algorithm-based clustering method of objective nebulizer adherence data to better understand this relationship, and potentially, to guide clinical decisions. This clustering method consists of three related steps. The first step is to split adherence data for the previous 12 months into four 3-monthly sections. The second step is to calculate mean adherence for each section and to score the section based on mean adherence. The third step is to aggregate the individual scores to determine the final cluster ("cluster 1" = very low adherence; "cluster 2" = low adherence; "cluster 3" = moderate adherence; "cluster 4" = high adherence), and taking into account adherence trend as represented by sequential individual scores. The individual scores should be displayed along with the final cluster for clinicians to fully understand the adherence data. We present three cases to illustrate the use of the proposed clustering method. This pragmatic clustering method can deal with adherence data of variable duration (ie, can be used even if 12 months' worth of data are unavailable) and can cluster adherence data in real time. Empirical support for some of the clustering parameters is not yet available, but the suggested classifications provide a structure to investigate parameters in future prospective datasets in which there are accurate measurements of nebulizer adherence and health outcomes.

[Nebulized budesonide in the treatment of exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: Efficacy, safety, and effects on the serum levels of soluble differentiation molecules].

PubMed

Makarova, E V; Varvarina, G N; Menkov, N V; Czapaeva, M Yu; Lazareva, E S; Kazatskaya, Zh A; Novikov, V V; Karaulov, A V

2016-01-01

To investigate the efficacy and safety of nebulized budesonide and systemic glucocorticosteroids (GCS) (SGCS) in the treatment of an exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and their effects on the serum concentration of soluble leukocyte differentiation antigens. Seventy-eight hospitalized patients with an acute exacerbation of COPD were randomized into two groups: 1) 37 patients took nebulized budesonide 4 mg/day; 2) 41 patients received intravenous prednisolone. The symptoms of COPD, forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) and other spirometric indicators, peripheral blood oxygen saturation (SpO2), and adverse events were studied. The serum levels of the soluble adhesion molecules CD50 (sCD50) and CD54 (sCD54) and the lymphocyte activation molecules CD38 (sCD38) and CD25 (sCD25) were investigated by an enzyme immunoassay. There was a significant resolution of the symptoms of COPD, FEV1, and SpO2 in both groups after treatment. The incidence of hyperglycemia episodes was lower in the budesonide group than in the sGCS group. GCSs caused a decrease in the serum level of soluble interleukin-2 receptor (sCD25) in both groups. A prednisolone cycle, unlike a budesonide one, was found to reduce the concentrations of sCD54, sCD50, and sCD38. Nebulized budesonide is an effective and safe alternative to SGCS in treating an exacerbation of COPD. Inhaled GCSs, unlike SGCSs, exhibit anti-inflammatory activity, but exert no immunosuppressive activity.

Enhanced expression of the DNA damage-inducible gene DIN7 results in increased mutagenesis of mitochondrial DNA in Saccharomyces cerevisiae.

PubMed

Koprowski, P; Fikus, M U; Dzierzbicki, P; Mieczkowski, P; Lazowska, J; Ciesla, Z

2003-08-01

We reported previously that the product of DIN7, a DNA damage-inducible gene of Saccharomyces cerevisiae, belongs to the XPG family of proteins, which are involved in DNA repair and replication. This family includes the S. cerevisiae protein Rad2p and its human homolog XPGC, Rad27p and its mammalian homolog FEN-1, and Exonuclease I (Exo I). Interestingly, Din7p is the only member of the XPG family which specifically functions in mitochondria. We reported previously that overexpression of DIN7 results in a mitochondrial mutator phenotype. In the present study we wished to test the hypothesis that this phenotype is dependent on the nuclease activity of Din7p. For this purpose, we constructed two alleles, din7-D78A and din7-D173A, which encode proteins in which highly conserved aspartates important for the nuclease activity of the XPG proteins have been replaced by alanines. Here, we report that overexpression of the mutant alleles, in contrast to DIN7, fails to increase the frequency of mitochondrial petite mutants or erythromycin-resistant (Er) mutants. Also, overproduction of din7-D78Ap does not result in destabilization of poly GT tracts in mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA), the phenotype observed in cells that overexpress Din7p. We also show that petite mutants induced by enhanced synthesis of wild-type Din7p exhibit gross rearrangements of mtDNA, and that this correlates with enhanced recombination within the mitochondrial cyt b gene. These results suggest that the stability of the mitochondrial genome of S. cerevisiae is modulated by the level of the nuclease Din7p.

DINS measurements on VESUVIO in the Resonance Detector configuration: proton mean kinetic energy in water

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pietropaolo, Antonino; Andreani, Carla; Filabozzi, Alessandra; Senesi, Roberto; Gorini, Giuseppe; Perelli-Cippo, Enrico; Tardocchi, Marco; Rhodes, Nigel J.; Schooneveld, Erik M.

2006-04-01

Deep Inelastic Neutron Scattering (DINS) measurements have been performed on a liquid water sample at two different temperatures and pressures. The experiments were carried out using the VESUVIO spectrometer at the ISIS spallation neutron source. This experiment represents the first DINS measurement from water using the Resonance Detector configuration, employing yttrium-aluminum-perovskite scintillator and a 238U analyzer foil. The maximum energy of the scattered neutrons was about 70 eV, allowing to access an extended kinematic space with energy and wave vector transfers at the proton recoil peak in the range 1 eV <= hbarω <= 20 eV and 25 Å-1 <= q <= 90 Å-1, respectively. Comparison with DINS measurements on water performed in the standard Resonance Filter configuration indicates the potential advantages offered by the use of Resonance Detector approach for DINS measurements at forward scattering angles.

Dinámica de objetos transplutonianos: resultados preliminares

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fernández, S.; Brizuela, H.; Roig, F.; Varela, O.

Se presentan los resultados de una integración numérica de las ecuaciones de movimiento para objetos transplutonianos. Se han calculado los tiempos de Lyapunov para esos objetos y se analiza el comportamiento dinámico de los mismos.

Surface acoustic wave nebulization facilitating lipid mass spectrometric analysis.

PubMed

Yoon, Sung Hwan; Huang, Yue; Edgar, J Scott; Ting, Ying S; Heron, Scott R; Kao, Yuchieh; Li, Yanyan; Masselon, Christophe D; Ernst, Robert K; Goodlett, David R

2012-08-07

Surface acoustic wave nebulization (SAWN) is a novel method to transfer nonvolatile analytes directly from the aqueous phase to the gas phase for mass spectrometric analysis. The lower ion energetics of SAWN and its planar nature make it appealing for analytically challenging lipid samples. This challenge is a result of their amphipathic nature, labile nature, and tendency to form aggregates, which readily precipitate clogging capillaries used for electrospray ionization (ESI). Here, we report the use of SAWN to characterize the complex glycolipid, lipid A, which serves as the membrane anchor component of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and has a pronounced tendency to clog nano-ESI capillaries. We also show that unlike ESI SAWN is capable of ionizing labile phospholipids without fragmentation. Lastly, we compare the ease of use of SAWN to the more conventional infusion-based ESI methods and demonstrate the ability to generate higher order tandem mass spectral data of lipid A for automated structure assignment using our previously reported hierarchical tandem mass spectrometry (HiTMS) algorithm. The ease of generating SAWN-MS(n) data combined with HiTMS interpretation offers the potential for high throughput lipid A structure analysis.

Quality assessment of DInSAR deformation measurements in volcanic areas by comparing GPS and SBAS results

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bonforte, A.; Casu, F.; de Martino, P.; Guglielmino, F.; Lanari, R.; Manzo, M.; Obrizzo, F.; Puglisi, G.; Sansosti, E.; Tammaro, U.

2009-04-01

Differential Synthetic Aperture Radar Interferometry (DInSAR) is a methodology able to measure ground deformation rates and time series of relatively large areas. Several different approaches have been developed over the past few years: they all have in common the capability to measure deformations on a relatively wide area (say 100 km by 100 km) with a high density of the measuring points. For these reasons, DInSAR represents a very useful tool for investigating geophysical phenomena, with particular reference to volcanic areas. As for any measuring technique, the knowledge of the attainable accuracy is of fundamental importance. In the case of DInSAR technology, we have several error sources, such as orbital inaccuracies, phase unwrapping errors, atmospheric artifacts, effects related to the reference point selection, thus making very difficult to define a theoretical error model. A practical way to obtain assess the accuracy is to compare DInSAR results with independent measurements, such as GPS or levelling. Here we present an in-deep comparison between the deformation measurement obtained by exploiting the DInSAR technique referred to as Small BAseline Subset (SBAS) algorithm and by continuous GPS stations. The selected volcanic test-sites are Etna, Vesuvio and Campi Flegrei, in Italy. From continuous GPS data, solutions are computed at the same days SAR data are acquired for direct comparison. Moreover, three dimensional GPS displacement vectors are projected along the radar line of sight of both ascending and descending acquisition orbits. GPS data are then compared with the coherent DInSAR pixels closest to the GPS station. Relevant statistics of the differences between the two measurements are computed and correlated to some scene parameter that may affect DInSAR accuracy (altitude, terrain slope, etc.).

THE DETERMINATION OF MERCURY AND MULTIPLE METALS IN DIETARY MATRICES USING DIRECT INJECTION NEBULIZATION INDUCTIVELY COUPLED PLASMA MASS SPECTROMETRY (DIN-ICP/MS)

EPA Science Inventory

Mercury (Hg) is a Persistent Bioaccumulative Toxin. Currently, low-level mercury (Hg) and low-level multiple-metals analyses require separate methods. Due to the high costs of performing both types of analyses, research planners often have to choose one or the other. For examp...

Investigation of Potential Landsubsidence using GNSS CORS UDIP and DinSAR, Sayung, Demak, Indonesia

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yuwono, B. D.; Prasetyo, Y.; Islama, L. J. F.

2018-02-01

The coastal flooding induced by land subsidence is one of major social problems in the coastal area of Central Java, especially North Demak. Recent advance technology Global Navigation Satellite System Continuously Operating System (GNSS) and Differential Synthetic Aperture Radar Interferometry ( DInSAR) is already increased our capability to identify of land subsidence processes. DInSAR required not only availability of good quality input data but also rigorous approaches. In this research we used DInSAR analysis with focusing on landsubsidence phenomena. Tests were done with geodetic GPS survey with GNSS CORS UDIP as base station. Performance assessment of development method was conducted on study area affected by land subsidence. The results of this study indicate land subsidence spreads in study area with varying degrees of subsidence.

Testing and Results of Human Metabolic Simulation Utilizing Ultrasonic Nebulizer Technology for Water Vapor Generation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stubbe, Matthew; Curley, Su

2010-01-01

Life support technology must be evaluated thoroughly before ever being implemented into a functioning design. A major concern during that evaluation is safety. The ability to mimic human metabolic loads allows test engineers to evaluate the effectiveness of new technologies without risking injury to any actual humans. The main function of most life support technologies is the removal of carbon dioxide (CO2) and water (H2O) vapor. As such any good human metabolic simulator (HMS) will mimic the human body s ability to produce these items. Introducing CO2 into a test chamber is a very straightforward process with few unknowns so the focus of this particular new HMS design was on the much more complicated process of introducing known quantities of H2O vapor on command. Past iterations of the HMS have utilized steam which is very hard to keep in vapor phase while transporting and injecting into a test chamber. Also steam adds large quantities of heat to any test chamber, well beyond what an actual human does. For the new HMS an alternative approach to water vapor generation was designed utilizing ultrasonic nebulizers as a method for creating water vapor. Ultrasonic technology allows water to be vibrated into extremely tiny pieces (2-5 microns) and evaporate without requiring additional heating. Doing this process inside the test chamber itself allows H2O vapor generation without the unwanted heat and the challenging process of transporting water vapor. This paper presents the design details as well as results of all initial and final acceptance system testing. Testing of the system was performed at a range of known human metabolic rates in both sea-level and reduced pressure environments. This multitude of test points fully defines the systems capabilities as they relate to actual environmental systems testing.

Railway deformation detected by DInSAR over active sinkholes in the Ebro Valley evaporite karst, Spain

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Galve, J. P.; Castañeda, C.; Gutiérrez, F.

2015-11-01

Subsidence was measured for the first time on railway tracks in the central sector of Ebro Valley (NE Spain) using Differential Synthetic Aperture Radar Interferometry (DInSAR) techniques. This area is affected by evaporite karst and the analysed railway corridors traverse active sinkholes that produce deformations in these infrastructures. One of the railway tracks affected by slight settlements is the Madrid-Barcelona high-speed line, a form of transport infrastructure highly vulnerable to ground deformation processes. Our analysis based on DInSAR measurements and geomorphological surveys indicates that this line shows dissolution-induced subsidence and compaction of anthropogenic deposits (infills and embankments). Significant sinkhole-related subsidence was also measured by DInSAR techniques on the Castejón-Zaragoza conventional railway line. This study demonstrates that DInSAR velocity maps, coupled with detailed geomorphological surveys, may help in the identification of the railway track sections that are affected by active subsidence.

Effects of different N sources on riverine DIN export and retention in a subtropical high-standing island, Taiwan

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Huang-Chuan, Jr.; Lee, Tsung-Yu; Lin, Teng-Chiu; Hein, Thomas; Lee, Li-Chin; Shih, Yu-Ting; Kao, Shuh-Ji; Shiah, Fuh-Kwo; Lin, Neng-Huei

2016-03-01

Increases in nitrogen (N) availability and mobility resulting from anthropogenic activities have substantially altered the N cycle, both locally and globally. Taiwan characterized by the subtropical montane landscape with abundant rainfall, downwind of the most rapidly industrializing eastern coast of China, can be a demonstration site for extremely high N input and riverine DIN (dissolved inorganic N) export. We used 49 watersheds with similar climatic and landscape settings but classified into low, moderate, and highly disturbed categories based on population density to illustrate their differences in nitrogen inputs (through atmospheric N deposition, synthetic fertilizers, and human emission) and DIN export ratios. Our results showed that the island-wide average riverine DIN export is ˜ 3800 kg N km-2 yr-1, approximately 18 times the global average. The average riverine DIN export ratios are 0.30-0.51, which are much higher than the averages of 0.20-0.25 of large rivers around the world, indicating excessive N input relative to ecosystem demand or retention capacity. The low disturbed watersheds have a high N retention capacity and DIN export ratios of 0.06-0.18 in spite of the high N input (˜ 4900 kg N km-2 yr-1). The high retention capacity is likely due to effective uptake by secondary forests in the watersheds. The moderately disturbed watersheds show a linear increase in DIN export with increases in total N inputs and mean DIN export ratios of 0.20 to 0.31. The main difference in land use between low and moderately disturbed watersheds is the greater proportion of agricultural land cover in the moderately disturbed watersheds. Thus, their greater DIN export could be attributed to N fertilizers used in the agricultural lands. The greater export ratios also imply that agricultural lands have a lower proportional N retention capacity and that reforestation could be an effective land management practice to reduce riverine DIN export. The export ratios of the

Effects of different N sources on riverine DIN export and retention in a subtropical high-standing island, Taiwan

PubMed Central

Huang, Jr-Chuan; Lee, Tsung-Yu; Lin, Teng-Chiu; Hein, Thomas; Lee, Li-Chin; Shih, Yu-Ting; Kao, Shuh-Ji; Shiah, Fuh-Kwo; Lin, Neng-Huei

2016-01-01

Increases in nitrogen (N) availability and mobility resulting from anthropogenic activities have substantially altered the N cycle, both locally and globally. Taiwan characterized by the subtropical montane landscape with abundant rainfall, downwind of the most rapidly industrializing eastern coast of China, can be a demonstration site for extremely high N input and riverine DIN (dissolved inorganic N) export. We used 49 watersheds with similar climatic and landscape settings but classified into low, moderate, and highly disturbed categories based on population density to illustrate their differences in nitrogen inputs (through atmospheric N deposition, synthetic fertilizers, and human emission) and DIN export ratios. Our results showed that the island-wide average riverine DIN export is ~ 3800 kg N km−2 yr−1, approximately 18 times the global average. The average riverine DIN export ratios are 0.30−0.51, which are much higher than the averages of 0.20−0.25 of large rivers around the world, indicating excessive N input relative to ecosystem demand or retention capacity. The low disturbed watersheds have a high N retention capacity and DIN export ratios of 0.06−0.18 in spite of the high N input (~ 4900 kg N km−2 yr−1). The high retention capacity is likely due to effective uptake by secondary forests in the watersheds. The moderately disturbed watersheds show a linear increase in DIN export with increases in total N inputs and mean DIN export ratios of 0.20 to 0.31. The main difference in land use between low and moderately disturbed watersheds is the greater proportion of agricultural land cover in the moderately disturbed watersheds. Thus, their greater DIN export could be attributed to N fertilizers used in the agricultural lands. The greater export ratios also imply that agricultural lands have a lower proportional N retention capacity and that reforestation could be an effective land management practice to reduce riverine DIN export. The export

Effects of different N sources on riverine DIN export and retention in a subtropical high-standing island, Taiwan.

PubMed

Huang, Jr-Chuan; Lee, Tsung-Yu; Lin, Teng-Chiu; Hein, Thomas; Lee, Li-Chin; Shih, Yu-Ting; Kao, Shuh-Ji; Shiah, Fuh-Kwo; Lin, Neng-Huei

Increases in nitrogen (N) availability and mobility resulting from anthropogenic activities have substantially altered the N cycle, both locally and globally. Taiwan characterized by the subtropical montane landscape with abundant rainfall, downwind of the most rapidly industrializing eastern coast of China, can be a demonstration site for extremely high N input and riverine DIN (dissolved inorganic N) export. We used 49 watersheds with similar climatic and landscape settings but classified into low, moderate, and highly disturbed categories based on population density to illustrate their differences in nitrogen inputs (through atmospheric N deposition, synthetic fertilizers, and human emission) and DIN export ratios. Our results showed that the island-wide average riverine DIN export is ~ 3800 kg N km -2 yr -1 , approximately 18 times the global average. The average riverine DIN export ratios are 0.30-0.51, which are much higher than the averages of 0.20-0.25 of large rivers around the world, indicating excessive N input relative to ecosystem demand or retention capacity. The low disturbed watersheds have a high N retention capacity and DIN export ratios of 0.06-0.18 in spite of the high N input (~ 4900 kg N km -2 yr -1 ). The high retention capacity is likely due to effective uptake by secondary forests in the watersheds. The moderately disturbed watersheds show a linear increase in DIN export with increases in total N inputs and mean DIN export ratios of 0.20 to 0.31. The main difference in land use between low and moderately disturbed watersheds is the greater proportion of agricultural land cover in the moderately disturbed watersheds. Thus, their greater DIN export could be attributed to N fertilizers used in the agricultural lands. The greater export ratios also imply that agricultural lands have a lower proportional N retention capacity and that reforestation could be an effective land management practice to reduce riverine DIN export. The export ratios of

X-Ray protective clothing: does DIN 6857-1 allow an objective comparison between lead-free and lead-composite materials?

PubMed

Eder, H; Schlattl, Helmut; Hoeschen, C

2010-05-01

The validity of DIN 6857-1 to establish lead equivalence for protective clothing is evaluated by Monte Carlo simulations and measurements. Commercially available protective clothing made of lead, lead-free and lead-composite materials has been tested regarding its protective efficacy. The analysis has been performed on the one hand in accordance with the test conditions described in the manufacturing standard DIN EN 61331-3 and on the other hand following the new DIN 6857-1 standard. Additionally, measurements have been carried out under simulated patient conditions by using an Alderson-Rando phantom. Following DIN EN 61331-3, the lead-free protective clothing achieved the required protective efficacy only at a restricted tube-voltage range. The test according to DIN 6857-1 showed that the protective criteria were fulfilled only by one lead-composite apron, but not by the three lead-free aprons examined. Thus, in order to guarantee the same protection as lead between 50 and 120 kV, the conditions of DIN 6857-1 must be fulfilled. A modification of DIN EN 61331-3 to account for secondary radiation is strongly advised in the case of lead-free materials. In summary, most of the protective lead-free aprons in use should be used with care, particularly for examinations with a high dose. Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart * New York.

Railway deformation detected by DInSAR over active sinkholes in the Ebro Valley evaporite karst, Spain

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Galve, J. P.; Castañeda, C.; Gutiérrez, F.

2015-06-01

Previously not measured subsidence on railway tracks was detected using DInSAR displacement maps produced for the central sector of Ebro Valley (NE Spain). This area is affected by evaporite karst and the analyzed railway corridors traverse active sinkholes that produce deformations in these infrastructures. One of the railway tracks affected by slight settlements corresponds to the Madrid-Barcelona high-speed line, a transport infrastructure highly vulnerable to ground deformation processes. Our analysis based on DInSAR measurements and geomorphological surveys indicate that this line show dissolution-induced subsidence and compaction of anthropogenic deposits (infills and embankments). By using DInSAR techniques, it was also measured the significant subsidence related to the activity of sinkholes in the Castejón-Zaragoza conventional railway line. Thus, this study demonstrate that DInSAR velocity maps coupled with detailed geomorphological surveys may help in the identification of the sectors of railway tracks that may compromise the safety of travellers.

Size distribution of salbutamol/ipratropium aerosols produced by different nebulizers in the absence and presence of heat and humidification.

PubMed

Yang, Ssu-Han; Yang, Tsung-Ming; Lin, Hui-Ling; Tsai, Ying-Huang; Fang, Tien-Pei; Wan, Gwo-Hwa

2018-02-01

Few studies have evaluated the size distribution of inhaled and exhaled aerosolized drugs, or the effect of heated humidification on particle size and lung deposition. The present study evaluated these aspects of bronchodilator (salbutamol/ipratropium) delivery using a lung model in the absence and presence of heat and humidification. We positioned filters to collect and measure the initial drug, inhaled drug, and exhaled drug. Particle size distribution was evaluated using an 8-stage Marple personal cascade impactor with 0.2-μm polycarbonate filters. A greater inhaled drug mass was delivered using a vibrating mesh nebulizer (VMN) than by using a small volume nebulizer (SVN), when heated humidifiers were not employed. When heated and humidified medical gas was used, there was no significant difference between the inhaled drug mass delivered by the VMN and that delivered by the SVN. A significantly greater mass of inhaled 1.55-μm drug particles was produced by the VMN than with the SVN, under heated and humidified conditions. However, the mass median aerodynamic diameters (MMADs) of the aerosolized drug produced by the SVN and VMN did not differ significantly under the same conditions. The VMN produced more fine particles of salbutamol/ipratropium, and the drug particle size clearly increased in the presence of heat and humidification. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Feasibility, tolerability, and outcomes of nebulized liposomal amphotericin B for Aspergillus infection prevention in lung transplantation.

PubMed

Monforte, Víctor; Ussetti, Piedad; Gavaldà, Joan; Bravo, Carles; Laporta, Rosalia; Len, Oscar; García-Gallo, Cristina López; Tenorio, Lluís; Solé, Joan; Román, Antonio

2010-05-01

Nebulized amphotericin B deoxycholate (n-ABD) is used to prevent Aspergillus infection in lung transplantation. Nebulized liposomal amphotericin B (n-LAB) is another option; however, no clinical data are available on the results of n-LAB for this purpose. In an observational study performed in 2 centers to assess the feasibility, tolerability, and outcomes of n-LAB prophylaxis, 104 consecutive patients undergoing prophylaxis with n-LAB were compared with 49 historical controls who received n-ABD. Patient follow-up lasted 12 months. The n-LAB prophylaxis regimen was 25 mg thrice weekly starting on the first post-operative day and continuing to 60 days, 25 mg once weekly from 60 to 180 days, and the same dose once every 2 weeks thereafter. Aspergillus infection developed in 8 of 104 patients (7.7%) with n-LAB prophylaxis (5 colonization, 1 simple tracheobronchitis, 1 ulcerative tracheobronchitis, and 1 invasive pulmonary infection). Ulcerative tracheobronchitis and invasive pulmonary aspergillosis were regarded as invasive disease; hence, the rate of invasive disease was 1.9% (2 patients). The control group had similar rates of Aspergillus infection (10.2%; p = 0.6) and invasive disease (4.1%; p = 0.43). In 3 patients (2.9%), n-LAB was withdrawn due to bronchospasm in 2 and nausea in 1. In the control group, prophylaxis was stopped in 2 patients (4.1%) because of bronchospasm (p = 0.7). At the dose and frequency described, n-LAB seems effective, safe, and convenient for the prevention of Aspergillus infection in lung transplant patients. Copyright (c) 2010 International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Minimizing variability of cascade impaction measurements in inhalers and nebulizers.

PubMed

Bonam, Matthew; Christopher, David; Cipolla, David; Donovan, Brent; Goodwin, David; Holmes, Susan; Lyapustina, Svetlana; Mitchell, Jolyon; Nichols, Steve; Pettersson, Gunilla; Quale, Chris; Rao, Nagaraja; Singh, Dilraj; Tougas, Terrence; Van Oort, Mike; Walther, Bernd; Wyka, Bruce

2008-01-01

The purpose of this article is to catalogue in a systematic way the available information about factors that may influence the outcome and variability of cascade impactor (CI) measurements of pharmaceutical aerosols for inhalation, such as those obtained from metered dose inhalers (MDIs), dry powder inhalers (DPIs) or products for nebulization; and to suggest ways to minimize the influence of such factors. To accomplish this task, the authors constructed a cause-and-effect Ishikawa diagram for a CI measurement and considered the influence of each root cause based on industry experience and thorough literature review. The results illustrate the intricate network of underlying causes of CI variability, with the potential for several multi-way statistical interactions. It was also found that significantly more quantitative information exists about impactor-related causes than about operator-derived influences, the contribution of drug assay methodology and product-related causes, suggesting a need for further research in those areas. The understanding and awareness of all these factors should aid in the development of optimized CI methods and appropriate quality control measures for aerodynamic particle size distribution (APSD) of pharmaceutical aerosols, in line with the current regulatory initiatives involving quality-by-design (QbD).

Humidity control of an incubator using the microcontroller-based active humidifier system employing an ultrasonic nebulizer.

PubMed

Güler, I; Burunkaya, M

2002-01-01

Relative humidity levels of an incubator were measured and controlled. An ultrasonic nebulizer system as an active humidifier was used to humidify the incubator environment. An integrated circuit-type humidity sensor was used to measure the humidity level of the incubator environment. Measurement and control processes were achieved by a PIC microcontroller. The high-performance and high-speed PIC provided the flexibility of the system. The developed system can be used effectively for the intensive care of newborns and/or premature babies. Since the humidifier generates an aerosol in ambient conditions, it is possible to provide the high relative humidity level for therapeutic and diagnostic purposes in medicine.

Effects of different N sources on riverine DIN export and retention in subtropical high-standing island, Taiwan

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Huang, J.-C.; Lee, T.-Y.; Lin, T.-C.; Hein, T.; Lee, L.-C.; Shih, Y.-T.; Kao, S.-J.; Shiah, F.-K.; Lin, N.-H.

2015-10-01

Increases in nitrogen (N) availability and mobility resulting from anthropogenic activities has substantially altered N cycle both locally and globally. Taiwan characterized by the subtropical montane landscape with abundant rainfall, downwind to the most rapidly industrializing east coast of China can be a demonstration site for extreme high N input and riverine DIN (dissolved inorganic N) export. We used 49 watersheds classified into low-, moderate-, and highly-disturbed categories based on population density to illustrate their differences in nitrogen inputs through atmospheric N deposition, synthetic fertilizers and human emission and DIN export ratios. Our results showed that the island-wide average riverine DIN export is ~ 3800 kg N km-2 yr-1, approximately 18-fold higher than the global average mostly due to the large input of synthetic fertilizers. The average riverine DIN export ratio is 0.30-0.51, which is much higher than the average of 0.20-0.25 of large rivers around the world indicating excessive N input relative to ecosystem demand or retention capacity. The low-disturbed watersheds, despite of high N input, only export 0.06-0.18 of the input so were well buffered to changes in input quantity suggesting high efficiency of nitrogen usage or high N retention capacity of the less disturbed watersheds. The high retention capacity probably is due to the effective uptake by secondary forests in the watersheds. The moderate-disturbed watersheds show a linear increase of output with increases in total N inputs and a mean DIN export ratio of 0.20 to 0.31. The main difference in land use between low and moderately disturbed watershed is the relative proportions of agricultural land and forests, not the built-up lands. Thus, their greater DIN export quantity could be attributed to N fertilizers used in the agricultural lands. The greater export ratios also imply that agricultural lands have lower proportional N retention capacity and that reforestation could be

IMPINGER SOLUTIONS FOR THE EFFICIENT CAPTURE OF GASEOUS MERCURY SPECIES USING DIRECT INJECTION NEBULIZATION INDUCTIVELY COUPLED PLASMA MASS SPECTROMETRY (DIN-ICP/MS) ANALYSIS

EPA Science Inventory

Currently there are no EPA reference sampling mehtods that have been promulgated for measuring Hg from coal combustion sources. EPA Method 29 is most commonly applied. The ASTM Ontario Hydro Draft Method for measuring oxidized, elemental, particulate-bound and total Hg is now und...

Noise distribution of an incubator with nebulizer at a neonatal intensive care unit in southern Taiwan.

PubMed

Chen, H F; Chang, Y J

2001-06-01

The purpose of this study was to investigate the noise distribution and sources of peak noise inside an incubator with a nebulizer at a neonatal intensive care unit of a medical center in Southern Taiwan. Sound levels were monitored continuously with an electronic sound-meter for 24 hours daily over a one-week period. Three working hours (day, evening, and night hours) in the weekday and weekend (total 48 hours) were selected randomly from the one-week period of noise survey to observe peak noise at levels > or = 65 dBA. Results revealed that 24.8% of the total monitoring period had sound levels at < or = 59 dBA, 58.9% at 60-64 dBA, 10.7% at 65-69 dBA, and 5.6% at > or = 70 dBA. Furthermore, a total of 947 peak noises > or = 65 dBA were found within the 48 hours, of which 61.5% were in a range of 65-69 dBA, 24% of 70-74 dBA, 9.8% of 75-79 dBA, and 4.8% > or = 80 dBA. Human-related sources, equaling 79%, were the dominant peak noises. These noises included opening and closing doors, banging the incubator hood, conversation among staff, nursing activity inside the incubator, tearing and opening paper or bags, opening and closing trash can lids, and bumping metal carts or other apparatus. Nonhuman-related sources were 21% including alarms of monitors and running of the incubator motor. Results of this study showed that the noise distribution in the incubator with nebulizer was far above a protective limitation of 58 dBA, suggested by the American Academy of Pediatrics in 1974. However, most peak noises could be reduced by modification of staff behavior. Therefore, determinations of noise distribution and sources of peak noise in this study are useful for further noise reduction programs.

Phase unwrapping methods of corner reflector DInSAR monitoring slow ground deformation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fu, Wenxue; Guo, Xiaofang; Tian, Qingjiu

2007-06-01

Difference interferometric Synthetic aperture radar (DInSAR) has turned out to be a very powerful technique for the measurement of land deformations, but it requires the observed area to be correlated, and coherence degradation will seriously affect the quality of interferogram. Corner reflector DInSAR (CRDInSAR) is a new technique in recently years, which can compensate for the limitation of the classical DInSAR. Due to the stable amplitude and phase performance of the reflector, the interferometric phase difference of the reflector can be used to monitor or measure the small and slowly ground deformation for the cases of large geometrical baseline and large time interval between acquisitions. Phase unwrapping is the process where the absolute phase is reconstructed from its principal value as accurately as possible. It is a key step in the analysis of DInSAR. The classical phase unwrapping methods are either of path following type or of minimum-norm type. However, if the coherence of the two images is very low, the both methods will get error result. In application of CRDInSAR, due to the scattered points, the phase unwrapping of corner reflectors is only dealt with on a sparse grid, so all the reflectors are connected with Delaunay triangulation firstly, which can be used to define neighboring points and elementary cycles. When the monitoring ground deformation is slow, that is unwrapped neighboring-CR phase gradients are supposed to equal their wrapped-phase counterparts, then path-following method and Phase unwrapping using Coefficient of Elevation-Phase-Relation can be used to phase unwrapping. However, in the cases of unwrapped gradients exceeding one-half cycle, minimum cost flow (MCF) method can be used to unwrap the interferogram.

DIN retention-transport through four hydrologically connected zones in a headwater catchment of the Upper Mississippi River

USGS Publications Warehouse

Triska, F.J.; Duff, J.H.; Sheibley, R.W.; Jackman, A.P.; Avanzino, R.J.

2007-01-01

Dissolved inorganic nitrogen (DIN) retention-transport through a headwater catchment was synthesized from studies encompassing four distinct hydrologic zones of the Shingobee River Headwaters near the origin of the Mississippi River. The hydrologic zones included: (1) hillslope ground water (ridge to bankside riparian); (2) alluvial riparian ground water; (3) ground water discharged through subchannel sediments (hyporheic zone); and (4) channel surface water. During subsurface hillslope transport through Zone 1, DIN, primarily nitrate, decreased from ???3 mg-N/l to <0.1 mg-N/l. Ambient seasonal nitrate:chloride ratios in hillslope flow paths indicated both dilution and biotic processing caused nitrate loss. Biologically available organic carbon controlled biotic nitrate retention during hillslope transport. In the alluvial riparian zone (Zone 2) biologically available organic carbon controlled nitrate depletion although processing of both ambient and amended nitrate was faster during the summer than winter. In the hyporheic zone (Zone 3) and stream surface water (Zone 4) DIN retention was primarily controlled by temperature. Perfusion core studies using hyporheic sediment indicated sufficient organic carbon in bed sediments to retain ground water DIN via coupled nitrification-denitrification. Numerical simulations of seasonal hyporheic sediment nitrification-denitrification rates from perfusion cores adequately predicted surface water ammonium but not nitrate when compared to 5 years of monthly field data (1989-93). Mass balance studies in stream surface water indicated proportionally higher summer than winter N retention. Watershed DIN retention was effective during summer under the current land use of intermittently grazed pasture. However, more intensive land use such as row crop agriculture would decrease nitrate retention efficiency and increase loads to surface water. Understanding DIN retention capacity throughout the system, including special channel

A new implementation of full resolution SBAS-DInSAR processing chain for the effective monitoring of structures and infrastructures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bonano, Manuela; Buonanno, Sabatino; Ojha, Chandrakanta; Berardino, Paolo; Lanari, Riccardo; Zeni, Giovanni; Manunta, Michele

2017-04-01

The advanced DInSAR technique referred to as Small BAseline Subset (SBAS) algorithm has already largely demonstrated its effectiveness to carry out multi-scale and multi-platform surface deformation analyses relevant to both natural and man-made hazards. Thanks to its capability to generate displacement maps and long-term deformation time series at both regional (low resolution analysis) and local (full resolution analysis) spatial scales, it allows to get more insights on the spatial and temporal patterns of localized displacements relevant to single buildings and infrastructures over extended urban areas, with a key role in supporting risk mitigation and preservation activities. The extensive application of the multi-scale SBAS-DInSAR approach in many scientific contexts has gone hand in hand with new SAR satellite mission development, characterized by different frequency bands, spatial resolution, revisit times and ground coverage. This brought to the generation of huge DInSAR data stacks to be efficiently handled, processed and archived, with a strong impact on both the data storage and the computational requirements needed for generating the full resolution SBAS-DInSAR results. Accordingly, innovative and effective solutions for the automatic processing of massive SAR data archives and for the operational management of the derived SBAS-DInSAR products need to be designed and implemented, by exploiting the high efficiency (in terms of portability, scalability and computing performances) of the new ICT methodologies. In this work, we present a novel parallel implementation of the full resolution SBAS-DInSAR processing chain, aimed at investigating localized displacements affecting single buildings and infrastructures relevant to very large urban areas, relying on different granularity level parallelization strategies. The image granularity level is applied in most steps of the SBAS-DInSAR processing chain and exploits the multiprocessor systems with distributed

Estimation of the formation rates of polyatomic species of heavy metals in plutonium analyses using a multicollector ICP-MS with a desolvating nebulizer

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Mitroshkov, Alexandre V.; Olsen, Khris B.; Thomas, Linda M.

2015-01-01

The analyses of IAEA and environmental samples for Plutonium isotopic content are conducted normally at very low concentrations of Pu–usually in the range of part per trillion level and even more often at the parts per quadrillion level. To analyze such low concentrations, the interferences in the analytical solution must be reduced as much as possible. Polyatomic interferences (PIs), formed by the heavy metals (HMs) from Hf to Bi are known to create the problems for Pu isotopic analyses, because even the relatively high resolution of a modern multicollector ICP-MS is not enough to separate Pu isotopes from this PIsmore » in most of the cases. Desolvating nebulizers (DSN) (e.g. APEX and AridusII) reduce significantly the formation of PIs compare to the use of wet plasma. The purpose of this work was to investigate the rate of formation of PIs, produced by HMs, when high resolution MC ICP-MS with desolvating nebulizer was used for Pu isotopic analyses and to estimate the influence of the metals present in the sample on the results of analyses. The NU Plasma HR Multicollector and AridusII desolvating nebulizer were used in this investigation. This investigation was done for all Pu isotopes normally analyzed by ICP-MS, including ²⁴⁴Pu, with the exception of ²³⁸Pu, which most of the time can’t be analyzed by ICP-MS, because of the overwhelming presence of ²³⁸U in the solutions. The PI formation rates were determined and reported for all 12 HMs from Hf to Bi. Selected IAEA samples were scanned for the presence of HMs and the influence of HMs on the results of Pu isotopic analyses was evaluated. It was found that the implemented separation procedure provides sufficient separation of HM from Pu, although the effect of PIs on the measurement of low level isotopes like ²⁴¹Pu and ²⁴²Pu in some cases can still be observed.« less

Performance Comparisons of Jet and Mesh Nebulizers Using Different Interfaces in Simulated Spontaneously Breathing Adults and Children.

PubMed

Ari, Arzu; de Andrade, Armele Dornelas; Sheard, Meryl; AlHamad, Bshayer; Fink, James B

2015-08-01

Different types of nebulizers and interfaces are used for the treatment of adults and children with pulmonary diseases. The purpose of this study was to determine the efficiency of a mesh nebulizer (MN) with a proprietary adapter and a jet nebulizer (JN) under different configurations in adult and pediatric models of spontaneous breathing. We hypothesize that delivery efficiency of JN and MN will differ depending on the interface used during aerosol therapy in simulated spontaneously breathing adult and pediatric models. While we expect that aerosol delivery with JN will be less efficient than MN, we also hypothesize that lung deposition obtained with the adult lung model will be more than that with the pediatric lung model in all conditions tested in this study. A lung model using a teaching manikin connected to a sinusoidal pump via a collecting filter at the level of the bronchi simulating a spontaneously breathing adult (Vt 500 mL, RR 15 bpm, I:E ratio 1:2) or pediatric patient (Vt 150 mL, RR 25 bpm, I:E ratio 1:2). Albuterol sulfate (2.5 mg/3 mL) was aerosolized with JN (Mistymax 10, Airlife) or MN (Aerogen Solo(®), Aerogen) with the Adapter (Aerogen Solo(®) Adapter, Aerogen Ltd, Galway, Ireland) using mouthpiece, aerosol mask, and valved-mask in adults and the dragon mask, aerosol mask, and valved-mask in pediatrics (n=3). The Adapter, specifically designed for MN, was attached to all the interfaces used in this study with supplemental oxygen of 2 lpm, and in addition, the MP was tested with no additional flow in the adult model. The JN was driven with 10 lpm based on the manufacturer's label. Drug was eluted from the filter and analyzed via spectrophotometry. Descriptive statistics, dependent t-test and one-way analysis of variance were used for data analysis. Significant level was set at 0.05. In adults, delivery efficiency of JN with the valved mask was significantly greater than that with the aerosol mask (p=0.01). Aerosol delivery of JN

Manufacturing of microcomponents in a research institute under DIN EN ISO 9001

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Maas, Dieter; Karl, Bernhard; Saile, Volker; Schulz, Joachim

2000-08-01

The Institute for Microstructure Technology at Forschungszentrum Karlsruhe has implemented a rigorous quality management system and was certified according to the DIN ISO EN 9001 standard in January 2000.

The DinJ/RelE Toxin-Antitoxin System Suppresses Bacterial Proliferation and Virulence of Xylella fastidiosa in Grapevine.

PubMed

Burbank, Lindsey P; Stenger, Drake C

2017-04-01

Xylella fastidiosa, the causal agent of Pierce's disease of grapes, is a slow-growing, xylem-limited, bacterial pathogen. Disease progression is characterized by systemic spread of the bacterium through xylem vessel networks, causing leaf-scorching symptoms, senescence, and vine decline. It appears to be advantageous to this pathogen to avoid excessive blockage of xylem vessels, because living bacterial cells are generally found in plant tissue with low bacterial cell density and minimal scorching symptoms. The DinJ/RelE toxin-antitoxin system is characterized here for a role in controlling bacterial proliferation and population size during plant colonization. The DinJ/RelE locus is transcribed from two separate promoters, allowing for coexpression of antitoxin DinJ with endoribonuclease toxin RelE, in addition to independent expression of RelE. The ratio of antitoxin/toxin expressed is dependent on bacterial growth conditions, with lower amounts of antitoxin present under conditions designed to mimic grapevine xylem sap. A knockout mutant of DinJ/RelE exhibits a hypervirulent phenotype, with higher bacterial populations and increased symptom development and plant decline. It is likely that DinJ/RelE acts to prevent excessive population growth, contributing to the ability of the pathogen to spread systemically without completely blocking the xylem vessels and increasing probability of acquisition by the insect vector.

Two host-induced Ralstonia solanacearum genes, acrA and dinF, encode multidrug efflux pumps and contribute to bacterial wilt virulence.

PubMed

Brown, Darby G; Swanson, Jill K; Allen, Caitilyn

2007-05-01

Multidrug efflux pumps (MDRs) are hypothesized to protect pathogenic bacteria from toxic host defense compounds. We created mutations in the Ralstonia solanacearum acrA and dinF genes, which encode putative MDRs in the broad-host-range plant pathogen. Both mutations reduced the ability of R. solanacearum to grow in the presence of various toxic compounds, including antibiotics, phytoalexins, and detergents. Both acrAB and dinF mutants were significantly less virulent on the tomato plant than the wild-type strain. Complementation restored near-wild-type levels of virulence to both mutants. Addition of either dinF or acrAB to Escherichia coli MDR mutants KAM3 and KAM32 restored the resistance of these strains to several toxins, demonstrating that the R. solanacearum genes can function heterologously to complement known MDR mutations. Toxic and DNA-damaging compounds induced expression of acrA and dinF, as did growth in both susceptible and resistant tomato plants. Carbon limitation also increased expression of acrA and dinF, while the stress-related sigma factor RpoS was required at a high cell density (>10(7) CFU/ml) to obtain wild-type levels of acrA expression both in minimal medium and in planta. The type III secretion system regulator HrpB negatively regulated dinF expression in culture at high cell densities. Together, these results show that acrAB and dinF encode MDRs in R. solanacearum and that they contribute to the overall aggressiveness of this phytopathogen, probably by protecting the bacterium from the toxic effects of host antimicrobial compounds.

Evolución Dinámica de Cúmulos Estelares Abiertos

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

de La Fuente Marcos, R.

Las estrellas que observamos no se formaron aisladamente, sino que lo hicieron en grupos o cúmulos. Estos sistemas estelares recibenel nombre de cúmulos estelares abiertos o galácticos cuando están constituidos por estrellas de la Población I. Los cúmulos abiertos se localizan preferentemente en el plano galáctico, y en muchos de ellos está teniendo lugar aún una activa formación estelar. El propósito principal de esta tesis doctoral es el estudio de la evolución dinámica de estos sistemas estelares por medio de simulaciones numéricas y de la comparación de sus resultados con datos observacionales. Con este fin se analizan los efectos que, sobre la dinámica de los cúmulos, ejercen varios fenómenos de interés astrofísico tales como el campo gravitatorio galáctico, la pérdida de masa causada por la evolución estelar y la presencia de binarias primordiales. En este trabajo se presentan los resultados de más de un centenar de modelos de cúmulos, con poblaciones comprendidas en el intervalo [100, 10.000] estrellas, calculados con NBODY5, un programa estándar en el campo de la Dinámica Estelar Experimental. De los mismos se deduce que el mecanismo principal que rige la dinámica de los cúmulos abiertos es la evolución estelar de su distribución de masas, encontrándose un comportamiento diferencial fuertemente dependiente de la población inicial del cúmulo. Los mecanismos responsables de la desintegración de los cúmulos abiertos son analizados en detalle, proponiéndose un modelo analítico que ajusta razonablemente los resultados de las simulaciones. Además, y con el fin de explicar el elevado número de sistemas múltiples observados en cúmulos abiertos, se estudian los efectos que, sobre los mismos, ejerce la presencia de una cierta fracción de binarias primordiales. El papel de las binarias tambiín depende de la riqueza del cúmulo y sus efectos se interrelacionan con aquellos debidos a la evolución estelar. Por último, se

Diné (Navajo) parents' and community leaders' perceptions of agriculture-related injury risk to youth: a social narrative.

PubMed

Shumway, K; Pate, M L; McNeal, L G

2014-01-01

The purpose of this study was to provide a formative needs assessment of Diné (Navajo) parents for the prevention of childhood injuries resulting from livestock and horses. The research objectives were to identify parents' perceived livestock and horse related injury risks to Diné children and describe Diné community stakeholder input on prevention interventions for reducing injury risks to children associated with livestock and horse related activities on farms or ranches. The assessment used a survey constructed of closed and open-response questions to gauge Diné farmers' and ranchers' perceptions of injury risks to children who live or work on agricultural operations. Additional questions were asked to gauge Diné acceptance of an online training program as a prevention intervention to reduce livestock and horse related injuries to children. A total of 96 individuals agreed to participate in the survey and provided usable responses. A total of 53.2% (f = 50) of participants were female. Sixty-three percent of participants (f = 58) perceived that youth who work with intact male livestock were at high risk for injury. A total of 25 individuals perceived that youth who ride horses without equestrian helmets were at high risk for injury. Approximately 96% (f = 89) of those surveyed agreed or strongly agreed that they would use an online training program to promote agricultural health and safety for Diné youth. When participants were asked if there were safety issues associated with having youth working on a farm or ranch, a very large portion felt that the biggest issue was a lack of education and instruction from elders. A recommendation for an injury prevention practice included developing a user-friendly online network, giving parents and community leaders access to resources to assist in educating youth in local agricultural traditions integrated with safety training.

1% Versus 2% Lignocaine for Airway Anesthesia in Flexible Bronchoscopy Without Lignocaine Nebulization (LIFE): A Randomized Controlled Trial.

PubMed

Madan, Karan; Biswal, Shiba K; Mittal, Saurabh; Hadda, Vijay; Mohan, Anant; Khilnani, Gopi C; Pandey, Ravindra M; Guleria, Randeep

2018-04-01

The ideal concentration of lignocaine for topical anesthesia in bronchoscopy remains investigational. In this randomized, double blind study, we compared 1% versus 2% lignocaine for topical anesthesia. Consecutive patients undergoing bronchoscopy were randomized to receive either 1% or 2% lignocaine solution by spray-as-you-go technique. All received 10% lignocaine spray to the oropharynx along with nasal 2% lignocaine gel. Nebulized lignocaine was not administered. Primary outcomes were operator-rated overall procedural satisfaction, visual analogue scale (VAS)-rated and operator-rated cough, VAS. Secondary objectives were total lignocaine dose administered, patient-rated pain on faces pain scale, cumulative dose of lignocaine and procedural complications. A total of 500 patients (250 in each group) were randomized. Baseline characteristics were comparable. Operator-rated overall procedural satisfaction, VAS (72.05±20.16 and 72.20±21.96 in 1% and 2% group respectively; P=0.93) and operator-rated cough, VAS [1% group: 19.1 (12.6-34.6) and 2% group: 20.6 (12.5-36.9); P>0.05] were similar between the 2 groups. Cumulative dose of lignocaine used in 2% lignocaine group was greater (220.89±12.96 mg in 1% and 319.55±19.32 mg in 2% group; P<0.001). Patients receiving sedation were comparable between the 2 groups. (10% in 1% lignocaine group and 6% in 2% lignocaine group; P=0.13). Minor complications occurred in 2 patients in each group. One percent lignocaine in flexible bronchoscopy is as efficacious as 2% lignocaine when administered using the spray as you go technique without concurrent lignocaine nebulization, at a significantly lower total dose of lignocaine administered.

A User-Oriented Methodology for DInSAR Time Series Analysis and Interpretation: Landslides and Subsidence Case Studies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Notti, Davide; Calò, Fabiana; Cigna, Francesca; Manunta, Michele; Herrera, Gerardo; Berti, Matteo; Meisina, Claudia; Tapete, Deodato; Zucca, Francesco

2015-11-01

Recent advances in multi-temporal Differential Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) Interferometry (DInSAR) have greatly improved our capability to monitor geological processes. Ground motion studies using DInSAR require both the availability of good quality input data and rigorous approaches to exploit the retrieved Time Series (TS) at their full potential. In this work we present a methodology for DInSAR TS analysis, with particular focus on landslides and subsidence phenomena. The proposed methodology consists of three main steps: (1) pre-processing, i.e., assessment of a SAR Dataset Quality Index (SDQI) (2) post-processing, i.e., application of empirical/stochastic methods to improve the TS quality, and (3) trend analysis, i.e., comparative implementation of methodologies for automatic TS analysis. Tests were carried out on TS datasets retrieved from processing of SAR imagery acquired by different radar sensors (i.e., ERS-1/2 SAR, RADARSAT-1, ENVISAT ASAR, ALOS PALSAR, TerraSAR-X, COSMO-SkyMed) using advanced DInSAR techniques (i.e., SqueeSAR™, PSInSAR™, SPN and SBAS). The obtained values of SDQI are discussed against the technical parameters of each data stack (e.g., radar band, number of SAR scenes, temporal coverage, revisiting time), the retrieved coverage of the DInSAR results, and the constraints related to the characterization of the investigated geological processes. Empirical and stochastic approaches were used to demonstrate how the quality of the TS can be improved after the SAR processing, and examples are discussed to mitigate phase unwrapping errors, and remove regional trends, noise and anomalies. Performance assessment of recently developed methods of trend analysis (i.e., PS-Time, Deviation Index and velocity TS) was conducted on two selected study areas in Northern Italy affected by land subsidence and landslides. Results show that the automatic detection of motion trends enhances the interpretation of DInSAR data, since it provides an objective

The injection of microorganisms into an atmospheric pressure rf-driven microplasma

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Maguire, P. D.; Mahony, C. M. O.; Diver, D.; Mariotti, D.; Bennet, E.; Potts, H.; McDowell, D. A.

2013-09-01

The introduction of living organisms, such as bacteria, into atmospheric pressure microplasmas offers a unique means to study certain physical mechanisms in individual microorganisms and also help understand the impact of macroscopic entities and liquid droplets on plasma characteristics. We present the characterization of an RF-APD operating at 13.56 MHz and containing microorganisms in liquid droplets emitted from a nebulizer, with the spray entrained in a gas flow by a gas shroud and passed into the plasma source. We report successful microorganism injection and transmission through the plasma with stable plasma operation of at least one hour. Diagnostics include RF electrical characterization, optical emission spectrometry and electrostatic deflection to investigate microorganism charging. A close-coupled Impedans Octiv VI probe indicates source efficiencies of 10 to 15%. The introduction of the droplets/microorganisms results in increased plasma conductivity and reduced capacitance, due to their impact on electron density and temperature. An electrical model will be presented based on diagnostic data and deflection studies with input from simulations of charged aerosol diffusion and evaporation. Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council EP/K006088, EP/K006142.

Two Host-Induced Ralstonia solanacearum Genes, acrA and dinF, Encode Multidrug Efflux Pumps and Contribute to Bacterial Wilt Virulence▿ †

PubMed Central

Brown, Darby G.; Swanson, Jill K.; Allen, Caitilyn

2007-01-01

Multidrug efflux pumps (MDRs) are hypothesized to protect pathogenic bacteria from toxic host defense compounds. We created mutations in the Ralstonia solanacearum acrA and dinF genes, which encode putative MDRs in the broad-host-range plant pathogen. Both mutations reduced the ability of R. solanacearum to grow in the presence of various toxic compounds, including antibiotics, phytoalexins, and detergents. Both acrAB and dinF mutants were significantly less virulent on the tomato plant than the wild-type strain. Complementation restored near-wild-type levels of virulence to both mutants. Addition of either dinF or acrAB to Escherichia coli MDR mutants KAM3 and KAM32 restored the resistance of these strains to several toxins, demonstrating that the R. solanacearum genes can function heterologously to complement known MDR mutations. Toxic and DNA-damaging compounds induced expression of acrA and dinF, as did growth in both susceptible and resistant tomato plants. Carbon limitation also increased expression of acrA and dinF, while the stress-related sigma factor RpoS was required at a high cell density (>107 CFU/ml) to obtain wild-type levels of acrA expression both in minimal medium and in planta. The type III secretion system regulator HrpB negatively regulated dinF expression in culture at high cell densities. Together, these results show that acrAB and dinF encode MDRs in R. solanacearum and that they contribute to the overall aggressiveness of this phytopathogen, probably by protecting the bacterium from the toxic effects of host antimicrobial compounds. PMID:17337552

A new global approach to obtain three-dimensional displacement maps by integrating GPS and DInSAR data

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guglielmino, F.; Nunnari, G.; Puglisi, G.; Spata, A.

2009-04-01

We propose a new technique, based on the elastic theory, to efficiently produce an estimate of three-dimensional surface displacement maps by integrating sparse Global Position System (GPS) measurements of deformations and Differential Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (DInSAR) maps of movements of the Earth's surface. The previous methodologies known in literature, for combining data from GPS and DInSAR surveys, require two steps: the first, in which sparse GPS measurements are interpolated in order to fill in GPS displacements at the DInSAR grid, and the second, to estimate the three-dimensional surface displacement maps by using a suitable optimization technique. One of the advantages of the proposed approach is that both these steps are unified. We propose a linear matrix equation which accounts for both GPS and DInSAR data whose solution provide simultaneously the strain tensor, the displacement field and the rigid body rotation tensor throughout the entire investigated area. The mentioned linear matrix equation is solved by using the Weighted Least Square (WLS) thus assuring both numerical robustness and high computation efficiency. The proposed methodology was tested on both synthetic and experimental data, these last from GPS and DInSAR measurements carried out on Mt. Etna. The goodness of the results has been evaluated by using standard errors. These tests also allow optimising the choice of specific parameters of this algorithm. This "open" structure of the method will allow in the near future to take account of other available data sets, such as additional interferograms, or other geodetic data (e.g. levelling, tilt, etc.), in order to achieve even higher accuracy.

Quality Control of Injection Molded Eyewear by Non-Contact Deflectometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Speck, A.; Zelzer, B.; Langenbucher, A.; Eppig, T.

2014-07-01

Occupational eye wear such as safety spectacles are manufactured by injection molding techniques. Testing of the assembled safety spectacle lenses in transmission is state of the art, but there is a lack of surface measurement systems for occupational safety lenses. The purpose of this work was to validate a deflectometric setup for topography measurement, detection of defects and visualization of the polishing quality, e.g. casting indentations or impressions, for the production process of safety spectacles. The setup is based on a customized stereo phase measuring deflectometer (PMD), equipped with 3 cameras with f'1,2 = 16 mm and f'3 = 8.5 mm and a specified measurement uncertainty of ± 3 μm. Sixteen plastic lenses and 8 corresponding injection molds from 4 parallel cavities were used for validation of the deflectometer. For comparison an interferometric method and a reference standard (< λ/10 super polished) was used. The accuracy and bias with a spherical safety spectacle sample was below 1 μm, according to DIN ISO 5725-2.2002-12. The repeatability was 2.1 μm and 35.7 μm for a blind radius fit. In conclusion, the PMD technique is an appropriate tool for characterizing occupational safety spectacle and injections mold surfaces. With the presented setup we were able to quantify the surface quality. This can be useful and may optimize the quality of the end product, in addition to standardized measuring systems in transmission.

Living in Health, Harmony, and Beauty: The Diné (Navajo) Hózhó Wellness Philosophy

PubMed Central

Koithan, Mary

2015-01-01

Hózhó is the complex wellness philosophy and belief system of the Diné (Navajo) people, comprised of principles that guide one's thoughts, actions, behaviors, and speech. The alignment of integrative nursing principles and the Hózhó Wellness Philosophy illustrates the power that integrative nursing offers as a meta-theoretical perspective that can transform our healthcare system so that it is inclusive and responsive to the needs of our varied populations. Integrative nursing offers the opportunity to re-introduce cultural wellness wisdom, such as Hózhó, as a means to improve whole-person/whole-systems wellbeing and resilience. Integrative nursing, through the acceptance and validation of indigenous health-sustaining wisdom, contributes to the delivery of effective, authentic, culturally tailored, whole-person/whole-system, patient-centered, relationship-based healthcare. Highlighting the Diné Hózhó philosophy re-introduces this philosophy to the Diné, other American Indian/Alaska Native nations, global indigenous cultures, and even nonindigenous people of the world as a means to promote and sustain global health and wellbeing. PMID:25984415

Comportamiento dinámico de asteroides en la región 23 < a < 26 UA

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

López García, F.

Los Kuiper Belt Objects (KBOs) pueden ser una fuente de origen de los cometas de corto período. Muchos de los KBOs observados parecen provenir, al igual que el sistema Pluton-Charonte, de órbitas resonantes con Neptuno. Los Centauros son objetos que dinámicamente provienen de órbitas inestables cuyo semieje mayor se encuentra entre las órbitas de Júpiter y Neptuno. Pudiera ser que estos cuerpos fueron expulsados desde la región del cinturón de Kuiper y se encuentran en un proceso de ``scattering" debido a los efectos gravitacionales de los planetas gigantes. Su tiempo de vida dinámico es de algunos millones de años. La evolución orbital de los objetos trans-Neptunianos nos permite conocer su comportamiento anterior, por eso, es importante su relación dinámica con la evolución orbital de Neptuno. El objeto de este trabajo es estudiar el comportamiento dinámico de partículas test que se encuentran entre las resonancias 3:2 con Neptuno y 2:3 con Urano, las cuales comprenden una región de 2 UA aproximadamente. Los primeros resultados indican que la mayoría de los objetos ficticios son eyectados hacia la parte externa del Sistema Solar, mientras que sólo una parte pequeña del total de objetos estudiados, aproximadamente un 7%, son eyectados hacia la parte interna del Sistema Solar, y en algunos casos sus órbitas pueden cruzar la órbita de los planetas terrestres.

Quantification aspects of constant pressure (ultra) high pressure liquid chromatography using mass-sensitive detectors with a nebulizing interface.

PubMed

Verstraeten, M; Broeckhoven, K; Lynen, F; Choikhet, K; Landt, K; Dittmann, M; Witt, K; Sandra, P; Desmet, G

2013-01-25

The present contribution investigates the quantitation aspects of mass-sensitive detectors with nebulizing interface (ESI-MSD, ELSD, CAD) in the constant pressure gradient elution mode. In this operation mode, the pressure is controlled and maintained at a set value and the liquid flow rate will vary according to the inverse mobile phase viscosity. As the pressure is continuously kept at the allowable maximum during the entire gradient run, the average liquid flow rate is higher compared to that in the conventional constant flow rate operation mode, thus shortening the analysis time. The following three mass-sensitive detectors were investigated: mass spectrometry detector (MS), evaporative light scattering detector (ELSD) and charged aerosol detector (CAD) and a wide variety of samples (phenones, polyaromatic hydrocarbons, wine, cocoa butter) has been considered. It was found that the nebulizing efficiency of the LC-interfaces of the three detectors under consideration changes with the increasing liquid flow rate. For the MS, the increasing flow rate leads to a lower peak area whereas for the ELSD the peak area increases compared to the constant flow rate mode. The peak area obtained with a CAD is rather insensitive to the liquid flow rate. The reproducibility of the peak area remains similar in both modes, although variation in system permeability compromises the 'long-term' reproducibility. This problem can however be overcome by running a flow rate program with an optimized flow rate and composition profile obtained from the constant pressure mode. In this case, the quantification remains reproducibile, despite any occuring variations of the system permeability. Furthermore, the same fragmentation pattern (MS) has been found in the constant pressure mode compared to the customary constant flow rate mode. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Human Y-Family DNA Polymerase κ Is More Tolerant to Changes in Its Active Site Loop than Its Ortholog Escherichia coli DinB.

PubMed

Antczak, Nicole M; Packer, Morgan R; Lu, Xueguang; Zhang, Ke; Beuning, Penny J

2017-11-20

DNA damage is a constant threat and can be bypassed in a process called translesion synthesis, which is typically carried out by Y-family DNA polymerases. Y-family DNA polymerases are conserved in all domains of life and tend to have specificity for certain types of DNA damage. Escherichia coli DinB and its human ortholog pol κ can bypass specific minor groove deoxyguanine adducts efficiently and are inhibited by major groove adducts, as Y-family DNA polymerases make contacts with the minor groove side of the DNA substrate and lack contacts with the major groove at the nascent base pair. DinB is inhibited by major groove adducts more than pol κ, and they each have active site loops of different lengths, with four additional amino acids in the DinB loop. We previously showed that the R35A active site loop mutation in DinB allows for bypass of the major groove adduct N 6 -furfuryl-dA. These observations led us to investigate the different active site loops by creating loop swap chimeras of DinB with a pol κ loop and vice versa by changing the loop residues in a stepwise fashion. We then determined their activity with undamaged DNA or DNA containing N 2 -furfuryl-dG or N 6 -furfuryl-dA. The DinB proteins with the pol kappa loop have low activity on all templates but have decreased misincorporation compared to either wild-type protein. The kappa proteins with the DinB loop retain activity on all templates and have decreased misincorporation compared to either wild-type protein. We assessed the thermal stability of the proteins and observed an increase in stability in the presence of all DNA templates and additional increases generally only in the presence of the undamaged and N 2 -furfuryl-dG adduct and dCTP, which correlates with activity. Overall we find that pol κ is more tolerant to changes in the active site loop than DinB.

Unsupervised DInSAR processing chain for multi-scale displacement analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Casu, Francesco; Manunta, Michele

2016-04-01

Earth Observation techniques can be very helpful for the estimation of several sources of ground deformation due to their characteristics of large spatial coverage, high resolution and cost effectiveness. In this scenario, Differential Synthetic Aperture Radar Interferometry (DInSAR) is one of the most effective methodologies for its capability to generate spatially dense deformation maps at both global and local spatial scale, with centimeter to millimeter accuracy. DInSAR exploits the phase difference (interferogram) between SAR image pairs relevant to acquisitions gathered at different times, but with the same illumination geometry and from sufficiently close flight tracks, whose separation is typically referred to as baseline. Among several, the SBAS algorithm is one of the most used DInSAR approaches and it is aimed at generating displacement time series at a multi-scale level by exploiting a set of small baseline interferograms. SBAS, and generally DInSAR, has taken benefit from the large availability of spaceborne SAR data collected along years by several satellite systems, with particular regard to the European ERS and ENVISAT sensors, which have acquired SAR images worldwide during approximately 20 years. Moreover, since 2014 the new generation of Copernicus Sentinel satellites has started to acquire data with a short revisit time (12 days) and a global coverage policy, thus flooding the scientific EO community with an unprecedent amount of data. To efficiently manage such amount of data, proper processing facilities (as those coming from the emerging Cloud Computing technologies) have to be used, as well as novel algorithms aimed at their efficient exploitation have to be developed. In this work we present a set of results achieved by exploiting a recently proposed implementation of the SBAS algorithm, namely Parallel-SBAS (P-SBAS), which allows us to effectively process, in an unsupervised way and in a limited time frame, a huge number of SAR images

EVALUATION OF IODINE BASED IMPINGER SOLUTIONS FOR THE EFFICIENT CAPTURE OF HG USING DIRECT INJECTION NEBULIZATION INDUCTIVELY COUPLED PLASMA MASS SPECTROMETRY (DIN-ICP/MS) ANALYSIS

EPA Science Inventory

Currently there are no EPA reference sampling methods that have been promulgated for measuring stack emissions of Hg from coal combustion sources, however, EPA Method 29 is most commonly applied. The draft ASTM Ontario Hydro Method for measuring oxidized, elemental, particulate-b...

Analysing surface deformation in Surabaya from sentinel-1A data using DInSAR method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Anjasmara, Ira Mutiara; Yusfania, Meiriska; Kurniawan, Akbar; Resmi, Awalina L. C.; Kurniawan, Roni

2017-07-01

The rapid population growth and increasing industrial space in the urban area of Surabaya have caused an excessive ground water use and load of infrastructures. This condition triggers surface deformation, especially the vertical deformation (subsidence or uplift), in Surabaya and its surroundings. The presence of dynamic processes of the Earth and geological form of Surabaya area can also fasten the rate of the surface deformation. In this research, Differential Interferometry Synthetic Aperture Radar (DInSAR) method is chosen to infer the surface deformation over Surabaya area. The DInSAR processing utilized Sentinel 1A satellite images from May 2015 to September 2016 using two-pass interferometric. Two-pass interferometric method is a method that uses two SAR imageries and Digital Elevation Model (DEM). The results from four pairs of DInSAR processing indicate the occurrence of surface deformation in the form of land subsidence and uplift based on the displacement Line of Sight (LOS) in Surabaya. The average rate of surface deformation from May 2015 to September 2016 varies from -3.52 mm/4months to +2.35 mm/4months. The subsidence mostly occurs along the coastal area. However, the result still contains errors from the processing of displacement, due to the value of coherence between the image, noise, geometric distortion of a radar signal and large baseline on image pair.

Enhancing DInSAR capabilities for landslide monitoring by applying GIS-based multicriteria filtering analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Beyene, F.; Knospe, S.; Busch, W.

2015-04-01

Landslide detection and monitoring remain difficult with conventional differential radar interferometry (DInSAR) because most pixels of radar interferograms around landslides are affected by different error sources. These are mainly related to the nature of high radar viewing angles and related spatial distortions (such as overlays and shadows), temporal decorrelations owing to vegetation cover, and speed and direction of target sliding masses. On the other hand, GIS can be used to integrate spatial datasets obtained from many sources (including radar and non-radar sources). In this paper, a GRID data model is proposed to integrate deformation data derived from DInSAR processing with other radar origin data (coherence, layover and shadow, slope and aspect, local incidence angle) and external datasets collected from field study of landslide sites and other sources (geology, geomorphology, hydrology). After coordinate transformation and merging of data, candidate landslide representing pixels of high quality radar signals were filtered out by applying a GIS based multicriteria filtering analysis (GIS-MCFA), which excludes grid points in areas of shadow and overlay, low coherence, non-detectable and non-landslide deformations, and other possible sources of errors from the DInSAR data processing. At the end, the results obtained from GIS-MCFA have been verified by using the external datasets (existing landslide sites collected from fieldworks, geological and geomorphologic maps, rainfall data etc.).

Toward smart Nebulization: Engineering acoustic airflow to penetrate maxillary sinuses in chronic rhinosinusitis.

PubMed

Moghadam, Shima Jowhari; Navarro, Laurent; Leclerc, Lara; Hodin, Sophie; Pourchez, Jérémie

2018-07-30

Treating chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) by nebulization requires an airflow capable to deliver medication to deep target sites beyond the nasal valve. Fixed frequency acoustic airflow technology is currently available, mainly as post-surgical therapy, but still have not been able to realize the full potential of direct nose to paranasal sinuses delivery. Reported herein are the application of frequency sweep acoustic airflow and the optimization of its frequency range, sweep cycle duration and intensity. The resonant frequencies of the model's maxillary sinuses can be estimated using the Helmholtz resonator theory. Results indicated a resonant frequency of 479 Hz for the right maxillary sinus and one of 849 Hz for the left maxillary sinus. The highest intrasinus deposition within the experiments are from sweep cycle duration of 1 s, intensity of 80 dB, and frequency range of 100-850 Hz. The optimal range of frequency determined from experiments is in good agreement with the corresponding frequency range obtained from the Helmholtz resonator theory. Results reveal a significantly enhanced maxillary sinus drug deposition. This technique affords the potential of treating CRS. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Geodetic Observations Using GNSS, Tiltmeter, and DInSAR, at Tokachi-dake Volcano, Japan

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Miyagi, Y.

2017-12-01

Tokachi-dake volcano is located in central Hokkaido, Japan. Middle sized eruptions occurred in 1926, 1962, and 1988-1989, and several small phreatic eruptions also occurred in the meanwhile. After the latest eruption in 1988-1989, many volcanic tremor and active seismicity were revealed. Active fumarolic activities from Taisho crater and 62-2 crater have been observed. In recent years, Tokachi-dake volcano has been observed by using several geodetic techniques, including DInSAR, GNSS, tiltmeter, and gravimeter, to detect regional and local signals associated with volcanic activities. Continuous GNSS stations in summit area operated by Geological Survey of Hokkaido and Hokkaido University [Okazaki et al., 2015] and DInSAR observations using ALOS-2 and TerraSAR-X data have revealed long-term small deformation after 2006 and transient large deformation in May, 2015. We found that these are quite local deformation, because regional GNSS and tiltmeter network did not detect any obvious signals in same period. The remarkable deformation detected by GNSS and DInSAR in the summit area between May and July, 2015, indicates that horizontal displacements are larger than vertical displacements, and westward displacement are much larger than eastward displacement. First, we try to model the deformation pattern using a simple spherical source model [Mogi, 1958] and a dike source model [Okada, 1985]. However, they cannot explain observed deformation because they do not take into consideration a topographic effect in the deformation area. Kawguchi & Miyagi [2016] tried to model the deformation using a boundary element method considering the topographic effect. Consequently, a deformation source which is vertically prolate spheroid beneath the summit shows a better fit between observed and simulated deformation. Annual campaign gravity observations have carried out by several Japanese university and institutes since 2010 [Takahashi et al., 2016]. These reveal that gravity value

From local to national scale DInSAR analysis for the comprehension of Earth's surface dynamics.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

De Luca, Claudio; Casu, Francesco; Manunta, Michele; Zinno, Ivana; lanari, Riccardo

2017-04-01

Earth Observation techniques can be very helpful for the estimation of several sources of ground deformation due to their characteristics of large spatial coverage, high resolution and cost effectiveness. In this scenario, Differential Synthetic Aperture Radar Interferometry (DInSAR) is one of the most effective methodologies for its capability to generate spatially dense deformation maps with centimeter to millimeter accuracy. DInSAR exploits the phase difference (interferogram) between SAR image pairs relevant to acquisitions gathered at different times, but with the same illumination geometry and from sufficiently close flight tracks, whose separation is typically referred to as baseline. Among several, the SBAS algorithm is one of the most used DInSAR approaches and it is aimed at generating displacement time series at a multi-scale level by exploiting a set of small baseline interferograms. SBAS, and generally DInSAR, has taken benefit from the large availability of spaceborne SAR data collected along years by several satellite systems, with particular regard to the European ERS and ENVISAT sensors, which have acquired SAR images worldwide during approximately 20 years. While the application of SBAS to ERS and ENVISAT data at local scale is widely testified, very few examples involving those archives for analysis at huge spatial scale are available in literature. This is mainly due to the required processing power (in terms of CPUs, memory and storage) and the limited availability of automatic processing procedures (unsupervised tools), which are mandatory requirements for obtaining displacement results in a time effective way. Accordingly, in this work we present a methodology for generating the Vertical and Horizontal (East-West) components of Earth's surface deformation at very large (national/continental) spatial scale. In particular, it relies on the availability of a set of SAR data collected over an Area of Interest (AoI), which could be some hundreds

[Determination of calcium, magnesium and potassium in nurtured cell by AAS with quick-pulsed nebulization technique and NaOH base digestion].

PubMed

Shi, C; Gao, S; Gun, S

1997-06-01

The sample is digested with 6% NaOH solution and an amount of 50 microl is used for protein content analysis by the method of Comassie Brilliant Blue G250, the residual is diluted with equal 0.4% Lathanurm-EDTA solution. Its Calcium magensium and potassium content are determined by AAS. With quick-pulsed nebulization technique. When a self-made micro-sampling device is used, 20microl of sample volume is needed and it is only the 1/10 approximately 1/20 of the sample volume required for conventional determination. Sensitivity, precision and rate of recovery agree well with those using regular wet ashing method.

"We're still in a struggle": Diné resilience, survival, historical trauma, and healing.

PubMed

Goodkind, Jessica R; Hess, Julia Meredith; Gorman, Beverly; Parker, Danielle P

2012-08-01

As part of a community/university collaborative effort to promote the mental health and well-being of Diné (Navajo) youth, we explored the relevance of addressing historical trauma and current structural stressors, and of building on individual and community strengths through healing and social transformation at multiple levels. Qualitative analyses of 74 ethnographic interviews with 37 Diné youth, parents, and grandparents suggested that a focus on historical trauma as a conceptual frame for behavioral health inequities, understood within the context of resilience and survival, is appropriate. Our findings also highlight the salience of current stressors such as poverty and violence exposure. We explore the fit of an historical trauma healing framework and present implications for intervention and transformation through revitalization of traditional knowledge, culturally based healing practices, intergenerational education, and social change strategies designed to eliminate social inequities.

Synthesis of Carbon Nano Materials Originated from Waste Cooking Oil Using a Nebulized Spray Pyrolysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Arie, A. A.; Hadisaputra, L.; Susanti, R. F.; Devianto, H.; Halim, M.; Enggar, R.; Lee, J. K.

2017-07-01

Synthesis of nanocarbon on snake fruit-peel’s activated carbon from waste cooking oil palm was conducted by a nebulized spray pyrolysis process (NSP) by varying the processing temperature from 650 to 750 °C. Ferrocene was used as a catalyst with constant concentration of 0.015 g/ml of carbon source. The structure of nanocarbon was studied by using scanning electron microscope (SEM),x-ray diffraction (XRD), surface area analyzer and Raman spectroscopy. SEM results showed that the structures of carbon products was in the the form of carbon nanopsheres (CNS). XRD and Raman analysis confirmed the CNS structure. The carbon producs were then tested as electrode’s materials for lithium ion capacitors (LIC) by cyclic voltammetry (CV) instruments. From the CV results the specific capacitance was estimated as 79.57 F / g at a scan rate of 0.1 mV / s and voltage range from 2.5 - 4 V. This study shows that the nano carbons synthesized from the waste cooking oil can be used as prospective electrode materials for LIC.

A breakthrough in neuroscience needs a "Nebulous Cartesian System" Oscillations, quantum dynamics and chaos in the brain and vegetative system.

PubMed

Başar, Erol; Güntekin, Bahar

2007-04-01

The Cartesian System is a fundamental conceptual and analytical framework related and interwoven with the concept and applications of Newtonian Dynamics. In order to analyze quantum processes physicist moved to a Probabilistic Cartesian System in which the causality principle became a probabilistic one. This means the trajectories of particles (obeying quantum rules) can be described only with the concept of cloudy wave packets. The approach to the brain-body-mind problem requires more than the prerequisite of modern physics and quantum dynamics. In the analysis of the brain-body-mind construct we have to include uncertain causalities and consequently multiple uncertain causalities. These multiple causalities originate from (1) nonlinear properties of the vegetative system (e.g. irregularities in biochemical transmitters, cardiac output, turbulences in the vascular system, respiratory apnea, nonlinear oscillatory interactions in peristalsis); (2) nonlinear behavior of the neuronal electricity (e.g. chaotic behavior measured by EEG), (3) genetic modulations, and (4) additional to these physiological entities nonlinear properties of physical processes in the body. The brain shows deterministic chaos with a correlation dimension of approx. D(2)=6, the smooth muscles approx. D(2)=3. According to these facts we propose a hyper-probabilistic approach or a hyper-probabilistic Cartesian System to describe and analyze the processes in the brain-body-mind system. If we add aspects as our sentiments, emotions and creativity to this construct, better said to this already hyper-probabilistic construct, this "New Cartesian System" is more than hyper-probabilistic, it is a nebulous system, we can predict the future only in a nebulous way; however, despite this chain of reasoning we can still provide predictions on brain-body-mind incorporations. We tentatively assume that the processes or mechanisms of the brain-body-mind system can be analyzed and predicted similar to the

Connection and Community: Diné College Emphasizes Real-World Experience in Public Health

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bauer, Mark

2016-01-01

The Summer Research Enhancement Program (SREP) at Diné College provides students with a solid foundation of public health research methods and includes a hands-on internship in their home community to test their newly acquired skills while enhancing the communities' health. Focusing on health issues prioritized by Navajo health leaders, from…

“We’re Still in a Struggle”: Diné Resilience, Survival, Historical Trauma, and Healing

PubMed Central

Goodkind, Jessica R.; Hess, Julia Meredith; Gorman, Beverly; Parker, Danielle P.

2014-01-01

As part of a community/university collaborative effort to promote the mental health and well-being of Diné (Navajo) youth, we explored the relevance of addressing historical trauma and current structural stressors and of building on individual and community strengths through healing and social transformation at multiple levels. Qualitative analyses of 74 ethnographic interviews with 37 Diné youth, parents, and grandparents suggested that a focus on historical trauma as a conceptual frame for behavioral health inequities, understood within the context of resilience and survival, is appropriate. Our findings also highlight the salience of current stressors such as poverty and violence exposure. We explore the fit of a historical trauma healing framework and present implications for intervention and transformation through revitalization of traditional knowledge, culturally-based healing practices, intergenerational education, and social change strategies designed to eliminate social inequities. PMID:22707344

Reference Dosimetry according to the New German Protocol DIN 6800-2 and Comparison with IAEA TRS 398 and AAPM TG 51*

PubMed Central

Zakaria, A; Schuette, W; Younan, C

2011-01-01

The preceding DIN 6800-2 (1997) protocol has been revised by a German task group and its latest version was published in March 2008 as the national standard dosimetry protocol DIN 6800-2 (2008 March). Since then, in Germany the determination of absorbed dose to water for high-energy photon and electron beams has to be performed according to this new German dosimetry protocol. The IAEA Code of Practice TRS 398 (2000) and the AAPM TG-51 are the two main protocols applied internationally. The new German version has widely adapted the methodology and dosimetric data of TRS-398. This paper investigates systematically the DIN 6800-2 protocol and compares it with the procedures and results obtained by using the international protocols. The investigation was performed with 6 MV and 18 MV photon beams as well as with electron beams from 5 MeV to 21 MeV. While only cylindrical chambers were used for photon beams, the measurements of electron beams were performed by using cylindrical and plane-parallel chambers. It was found that the discrepancies in the determination of absorbed dose to water among the three protocols were 0.23% for photon beams and 1.2% for electron beams. The determination of water absorbed dose was also checked by a national audit procedure using TLDs. The comparison between the measurements following the DIN 6800-2 protocol and the TLD audit-procedure confirmed a difference of less than 2%. The advantage of the new German protocol DIN 6800-2 lies in the renouncement on the cross calibration procedure as well as its clear presentation of formulas and parameters. In the past, the different protocols evoluted differently from time to time. Fortunately today, a good convergence has been obtained in concepts and methods. PMID:22287987

Reference Dosimetry according to the New German Protocol DIN 6800-2 and Comparison with IAEA TRS 398 and AAPM TG 51.

PubMed

Zakaria, A; Schuette, W; Younan, C

2011-04-01

The preceding DIN 6800-2 (1997) protocol has been revised by a German task group and its latest version was published in March 2008 as the national standard dosimetry protocol DIN 6800-2 (2008 March). Since then, in Germany the determination of absorbed dose to water for high-energy photon and electron beams has to be performed according to this new German dosimetry protocol. The IAEA Code of Practice TRS 398 (2000) and the AAPM TG-51 are the two main protocols applied internationally. The new German version has widely adapted the methodology and dosimetric data of TRS-398. This paper investigates systematically the DIN 6800-2 protocol and compares it with the procedures and results obtained by using the international protocols. The investigation was performed with 6 MV and 18 MV photon beams as well as with electron beams from 5 MeV to 21 MeV. While only cylindrical chambers were used for photon beams, the measurements of electron beams were performed by using cylindrical and plane-parallel chambers. It was found that the discrepancies in the determination of absorbed dose to water among the three protocols were 0.23% for photon beams and 1.2% for electron beams. The determination of water absorbed dose was also checked by a national audit procedure using TLDs. The comparison between the measurements following the DIN 6800-2 protocol and the TLD audit-procedure confirmed a difference of less than 2%. The advantage of the new German protocol DIN 6800-2 lies in the renouncement on the cross calibration procedure as well as its clear presentation of formulas and parameters. In the past, the different protocols evoluted differently from time to time. Fortunately today, a good convergence has been obtained in concepts and methods.

Effects of liquid chromatography mobile phases and buffer salts on phosphorus inductively coupled plasma atomic emission and mass spectrometries utilizing ultrasonic nebulization and membrane desolvation.

PubMed

Carr, John E; Kwok, Kaho; Webster, Gregory K; Carnahan, Jon W

2006-01-23

Atomic spectrometry, specifically inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry (ICP-AES) and mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) show promise for heteroatom-based detection of pharmaceutical compounds. The combination of ultrasonic nebulization (USN) with membrane desolvation (MD) greatly enhances detection limits with these approaches. Because pharmaceutical analyses often incorporate liquid chromatography, the study herein was performed to examine the effects of solvent composition on the analytical behaviors of these approaches. The target analyte was phosphorus, introduced as phosphomycin. AES response was examined at the 253.7 nm atom line and mass 31 ions were monitored for the MS experiments. With pure aqueous solutions, detection limits of 5 ppb (0.5 ng in 0.1 mL injection volumes) were obtained with ICP-MS. The ICP-AES detection limit was 150 ppb. Solvent compositions were varied from 0 to 80% organic (acetonitrile and methanol) with nine buffers at concentrations typically used in liquid chromatography. In general, solvents and buffers had statistically significant, albeit small, effects on ICP-AES sensitivities. A few exceptions occurred in cases where typical liquid chromatography buffer concentrations produced higher mass loadings on the plasma. Indications are that isocratic separations can be reliably performed. Within reasonable accuracy tolerances, it appears that gradient chromatography can be performed without the need for signal response normalization. Organic solvent and buffer effects were more significant with ICP-MS. Sensitivities varied significantly with different buffers and organic solvent content. In these cases, gradient chromatography will require careful analytical calibration as solvent and buffer content is varied. However, for most buffer and solvent combinations, signal and detection limits are only moderately affected. Isocratic separations and detection are feasible.

A nebulized gelatin nanoparticle-based CpG formulation is effective in immunotherapy of allergic horses.

PubMed

Klier, John; Fuchs, Sebastian; May, Anna; Schillinger, Ulrike; Plank, Christian; Winter, Gerhard; Coester, Conrad; Gehlen, Heidrun

2012-06-01

In the recent years, nanotechnology has boosted the development of potential drug delivery systems and material engineering on nanoscale basis in order to increase drug specificity and reduce side effects. A potential delivery system for immunostimulating agents such as cytosine-phosphate-guanine-oligodeoxynucleotides (CpG-ODN) needs to be developed to maximize the efficacy of immunotherapy against hypersensitivity. In this study, an aerosol formulation of biodegradable, biocompatible and nontoxic gelatin nanoparticle-bound CpG-ODN 2216 was used to treat equine recurrent airway obstruction in a clinical study. Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid was obtained from healthy and allergic horses to quantify Th1/Th2 cytokine levels before and after inhalation regimen. Full clinical examinations were performed to evaluate the therapeutic potential of this nebulized gelatin nanoparticle-based CpG formulation. Most remarkable was that regulatory anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic cytokine IL-10 expression was significantly triggered by five consecutive inhalations. Thorough assessment of clinical parameters following nanoparticle treatment indicated a partial remission of the allergic condition. Thus this study, for the first time, showed effectiveness of colloidal nanocarrier-mediated immunotherapy in food-producing animals with potential future applicability to other species including humans.

Rehydrated sterically stabilized phospholipid nanomicelles of budesonide for nebulization: physicochemical characterization and in vitro, in vivo evaluations

PubMed Central

Sahib, Mohanad Naji; Darwis, Yusrida; Peh, Kok Khiang; Abdulameer, Shaymaa Abdalwahed; Tan, Yvonne Tze Fung

2011-01-01

Background Inhaled corticosteroids provide unique systems for local treatment of asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. However, the use of poorly soluble drugs for nebulization has been inadequate, and many patients rely on large doses to achieve optimal control of their disease. Theoretically, nanotechnology with a sustained-release formulation may provide a favorable therapeutic index. The aim of this study was to determine the feasibility of using sterically stabilized phospholipid nanomicelles of budesonide for pulmonary delivery via nebulization. Methods PEG5000-DSPE polymeric micelles containing budesonide (BUD-SSMs) were prepared by the coprecipitation and reconstitution method, and the physicochemical and pharmacodynamic characteristics of BUD-SSMs were investigated. Results The optimal concentration of solubilized budesonide at 5 mM PEG5000-DSPE was 605.71 ± 6.38 μg/mL, with a single-sized peak population determined by photon correlation spectroscopy and a particle size distribution of 21.51 ± 1.5 nm. The zeta potential of BUD-SSMs was −28.43 ± 1.98 mV. The percent entrapment efficiency, percent yield, and percent drug loading of the lyophilized formulations were 100.13% ± 1.09%, 97.98% ± 1.95%, and 2.01% ± 0.02%, respectively. Budesonide was found to be amorphous by differential scanning calorimetry, and had no chemical interaction with PEGylated polymer according to Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Transmission electron microscopic images of BUD-SSMs revealed spherical nanoparticles. BUD-SSMs exhibited prolonged dissolution behavior compared with Pulmicort Respules® (P < 0.05). Aerodynamic characteristics indicated significantly higher deposition in the lungs compared with Pulmicort Respules®. The mass median aerodynamic, geometric standard deviation, percent emitted dose, and the fine particle fraction were 2.83 ± 0.08 μm, 2.33 ± 0.04 μm, 59.13% ± 0.19%, and 52.31% ± 0.25%, respectively. Intratracheal administration

Toxin-antitoxin systems mqsR/ygiT and dinJ/RelE of Xylella fastidiosa

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

The plant pathogen Xylella fastidiosa (Xf) encodes multiple toxin-antitoxin (TA) system homologues, including relE/dinJ and mqsR/ygiT. Phylogenetic analyses indicate these two Xf TA systems have distinct evolutionary histories. Genomic comparisons among Xf subspecies/strains reveal TA systems are ...

DInSAR time series generation within a cloud computing environment: from ERS to Sentinel-1 scenario

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Casu, Francesco; Elefante, Stefano; Imperatore, Pasquale; Lanari, Riccardo; Manunta, Michele; Zinno, Ivana; Mathot, Emmanuel; Brito, Fabrice; Farres, Jordi; Lengert, Wolfgang

2013-04-01

One of the techniques that will strongly benefit from the advent of the Sentinel-1 system is Differential SAR Interferometry (DInSAR), which has successfully demonstrated to be an effective tool to detect and monitor ground displacements with centimetre accuracy. The geoscience communities (volcanology, seismicity, …), as well as those related to hazard monitoring and risk mitigation, make extensively use of the DInSAR technique and they will take advantage from the huge amount of SAR data acquired by Sentinel-1. Indeed, such an information will successfully permit the generation of Earth's surface displacement maps and time series both over large areas and long time span. However, the issue of managing, processing and analysing the large Sentinel data stream is envisaged by the scientific community to be a major bottleneck, particularly during crisis phases. The emerging need of creating a common ecosystem in which data, results and processing tools are shared, is envisaged to be a successful way to address such a problem and to contribute to the information and knowledge spreading. The Supersites initiative as well as the ESA SuperSites Exploitation Platform (SSEP) and the ESA Cloud Computing Operational Pilot (CIOP) projects provide effective answers to this need and they are pushing towards the development of such an ecosystem. It is clear that all the current and existent tools for querying, processing and analysing SAR data are required to be not only updated for managing the large data stream of Sentinel-1 satellite, but also reorganized for quickly replying to the simultaneous and highly demanding user requests, mainly during emergency situations. This translates into the automatic and unsupervised processing of large amount of data as well as the availability of scalable, widely accessible and high performance computing capabilities. The cloud computing environment permits to achieve all of these objectives, particularly in case of spike and peak

Low-cost and eco-friendly nebulizer spray coated CuInAlS2 counter electrode for dye-sensitized solar cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dhas, C. Ravi; Christy, A. Jennifer; Venkatesh, R.; Esther Santhoshi Monica, S.; Panda, Subhendu K.; Subramanian, B.; Ravichandran, K.; Sudhagar, P.; Raj, A. Moses Ezhil

2018-05-01

CuInAlS2 thin films for different substrate temperatures were deposited by a novel nebulizer spray technique. The polycrystalline CIAS thin film exhibited tetragonal structure with the preferential orientation of (1 1 2) plane. Nanoflakes were observed from the surface morphology of CIAS film. The peak position of core level spectra confirms the presence of CuInAlS2 from XPS analysis. The absorbance spectra and optical band gap were observed from the optical property. The activation energy, carrier concentration, hole mobility and resistivity were determined by linear four probe and Hall effect measurements. The CIAS film was used as a counter electrode (CE) in dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) and is characterized by cyclic voltammetry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and Tafel measurements. DSSC fabricated with the CIAS CE achieved the photo conversion efficiency of about 2.55%.

Modeled long-term changes of DIN:DIP ratio in the Changjiang River in relation to Chl-α and DO concentrations in adjacent estuary

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Jianing; Yan, Weijin; Chen, Nengwang; Li, Xinyan; Liu, Lusan

2015-12-01

In the past four decades (1970-2013), nitrogen and phosphorous inputs to the Changjiang River basin, mainly from human activities, have increased 3-fold and 306-fold, respectively. The riverine nutrient fluxes to the estuary have also grown exponentially. Dissolved inorganic nitrogen (DIN) and dissolved inorganic phosphorous (DIP) fluxes of the Changjiang River increased by 338% and 574% during 1970-2013 period, and red tides and benthic hypoxia have been observed in the outflow region of the Changjiang River in the East China Sea (ECS). We assumed that time series changes in the DIN:DIP ratio from the Changjiang River could have a significant impact on Chlorophyll-α (Chl-α) concentration in the surface sea water and dissolved oxygen (DO) concentration in the bottom sea water of the Changjiang estuary. Our study showed that the DIN:DIP ratio from the Changjiang River increased from 76 to 384 between 1970 and 1985, and decreased from 255 to 149 between 1986 and 2013. The observed Chl-α concentration increased by 146% from 1992 to 2010 in the Changjiang estuary, and was negatively related to the DIN:DIP ratio in 1992-2010. Bottom sea water DO concentration decreased by 24.6% during 1992-2010 and a "low oxygen zone" (122°∼123°E, 32°∼33°N) was observed during summer since 1999. The anthropogenically enhanced nutrient inputs dominated river DIN and DIP fluxes and influenced Chl-α concentrations as well as bottom DO concentrations in the estuary. Scenarios emphasizing global collaboration and proactive environmental problem-solving may result in reductions in the river nutrient exports and in Chl-α and DO concentration in the Changjiang estuary by 2050.

A GeoNode-Based Multiscale Platform For Management, Visualization And Integration Of DInSAR Data With Different Geospatial Information Sources

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Buonanno, Sabatino; Fusco, Adele; Zeni, Giovanni; Manunta, Michele; Lanari, Riccardo

2017-04-01

This work describes the implementation of an efficient system for managing, viewing, analyzing and updating remotely sensed data, with special reference to Differential Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (DInSAR) data. The DInSAR products measure Earth surface deformation both in space and time, producing deformation maps and time series[1,2]. The use of these data in research or operational contexts requires tools that have to handle temporal and spatial variability with high efficiency. For this aim we present an implementation based on Spatial Data Infrastructure (SDI) for data integration, management and interchange, by using standard protocols[3]. SDI tools provide access to static datasets that operate only with spatial variability . In this paper we use the open source project GeoNode as framework to extend SDI infrastructure functionalities to ingest very efficiently DInSAR deformation maps and deformation time series. GeoNode allows to realize comprehensive and distributed infrastructure, following the standards of the Open Geospatial Consortium, Inc. - OGC, for remote sensing data management, analysis and integration [4,5]. In the current paper we explain the methodology used for manage the data complexity and data integration using the opens source project GeoNode. The solution presented in this work for the ingestion of DinSAR products is a very promising starting point for future developments of the OGC compliant implementation of a semi-automatic remote sensing data processing chain . [1] Berardino, P., Fornaro, G., Lanari, R., & Sansosti, E. (2002). A new Algorithm for Surface Deformation Monitoring based on Small Baseline Differential SAR Interferograms. IEEE Transactions on Geoscience and Remote Sensing, 40, 11, pp. 2375-2383. [2] Lanari R., F. Casu, M. Manzo, G. Zeni,, P. Berardino, M. Manunta and A. Pepe (2007), An overview of the Small Baseline Subset Algorithm: a DInSAR Technique for Surface Deformation Analysis, P. Appl. Geophys., 164

The cough response to ultrasonically nebulized distilled water in heart-lung transplantation patients

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Higenbottam, T.; Jackson, M.; Woolman, P.

1989-07-01

As a result of clinical heart-lung transplantation, the lungs are denervated below the level of the tracheal anastomosis. It has been questioned whether afferent vagal reinnervation occurs after surgery. Here we report the cough frequency, during inhalation of ultrasonically nebulized distilled water, of 15 heart-lung transplant patients studied 6 wk to 36 months after surgery. They were compared with 15 normal subjects of a similar age and sex. The distribution of the aerosol was studied in five normal subjects using /sup 99m/technetium diethylene triamine pentaacetate (/sup 99m/Tc-DTPA) in saline. In seven patients, the sensitivity of the laryngeal mucosa to instilledmore » distilled water (0.2 ml) was tested at the time of fiberoptic bronchoscopy by recording the cough response. Ten percent of the aerosol was deposited onto the larynx and trachea, 56% on the central airways, and 34% in the periphery of the lung. The cough response to the aerosol was strikingly diminished in the patients compared with normal subjects (p less than 0.001), but all seven patients coughed when distilled water was instilled onto the larynx. As expected, the laryngeal mucosa of heart-lung transplant patients remains sensitive to distilled water. However, the diminished coughing when the distilled water is distributed by aerosol to the central airways supports the view that vagal afferent nerves do not reinnervate the lungs after heart-lung transplantation, up to 36 months after surgery.« less

Accurate determination of sulfur in gasoline and related fuel samples using isotope dilution ICP-MS with direct sample injection and microwave-assisted digestion.

PubMed

Heilmann, Jens; Boulyga, Sergei F; Heumann, Klaus G

2004-09-01

Inductively coupled plasma isotope-dilution mass spectrometry (ICP-IDMS) with direct injection of isotope-diluted samples into the plasma, using a direct injection high-efficiency nebulizer (DIHEN), was applied for accurate sulfur determinations in sulfur-free premium gasoline, gas oil, diesel fuel, and heating oil. For direct injection a micro-emulsion consisting of the corresponding organic sample and an aqueous 34S-enriched spike solution with additions of tetrahydronaphthalene and Triton X-100, was prepared. The ICP-MS parameters were optimized with respect to high sulfur ion intensities, low mass-bias values, and high precision of 32S/34S ratio measurements. For validation of the DIHEN-ICP-IDMS method two certified gas oil reference materials (BCR 107 and BCR 672) were analyzed. For comparison a wet-chemical ICP-IDMS method was applied with microwave-assisted digestion using decomposition of samples in a closed quartz vessel inserted into a normal microwave system. The results from both ICP-IDMS methods agree well with the certified values of the reference materials and also with each other for analyses of other samples. However, the standard deviation of DIHEN-ICP-IDMS was about a factor of two higher (5-6% RSD at concentration levels above 100 mircog g(-1)) compared with those of wet-chemical ICP-IDMS, mainly due to inhomogeneities of the micro-emulsion, which causes additional plasma instabilities. Detection limits of 4 and 18 microg g(-1) were obtained for ICP-IDMS in connection with microwave-assisted digestion and DIHEN-ICP-IDMS, respectively, with a sulfur background of the used Milli-Q water as the main limiting factor for both methods.

Din7 and Mhr1 expression levels regulate double-strand-break–induced replication and recombination of mtDNA at ori5 in yeast

PubMed Central

Ling, Feng; Hori, Akiko; Yoshitani, Ayako; Niu, Rong; Yoshida, Minoru; Shibata, Takehiko

2013-01-01

The Ntg1 and Mhr1 proteins initiate rolling-circle mitochondrial (mt) DNA replication to achieve homoplasmy, and they also induce homologous recombination to maintain mitochondrial genome integrity. Although replication and recombination profoundly influence mitochondrial inheritance, the regulatory mechanisms that determine the choice between these pathways remain unknown. In Saccharomyces cerevisiae, double-strand breaks (DSBs) introduced by Ntg1 at the mitochondrial replication origin ori5 induce homologous DNA pairing by Mhr1, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) enhance production of DSBs. Here, we show that a mitochondrial nuclease encoded by the nuclear gene DIN7 (DNA damage inducible gene) has 5′-exodeoxyribonuclease activity. Using a small ρ− mtDNA bearing ori5 (hypersuppressive; HS) as a model mtDNA, we revealed that DIN7 is required for ROS-enhanced mtDNA replication and recombination that are both induced at ori5. Din7 overproduction enhanced Mhr1-dependent mtDNA replication and increased the number of residual DSBs at ori5 in HS-ρ− cells and increased deletion mutagenesis at the ori5 region in ρ+ cells. However, simultaneous overproduction of Mhr1 suppressed all of these phenotypes and enhanced homologous recombination. Our results suggest that after homologous pairing, the relative activity levels of Din7 and Mhr1 modulate the preference for replication versus homologous recombination to repair DSBs at ori5. PMID:23598996

Din7 and Mhr1 expression levels regulate double-strand-break-induced replication and recombination of mtDNA at ori5 in yeast.

PubMed

Ling, Feng; Hori, Akiko; Yoshitani, Ayako; Niu, Rong; Yoshida, Minoru; Shibata, Takehiko

2013-06-01

The Ntg1 and Mhr1 proteins initiate rolling-circle mitochondrial (mt) DNA replication to achieve homoplasmy, and they also induce homologous recombination to maintain mitochondrial genome integrity. Although replication and recombination profoundly influence mitochondrial inheritance, the regulatory mechanisms that determine the choice between these pathways remain unknown. In Saccharomyces cerevisiae, double-strand breaks (DSBs) introduced by Ntg1 at the mitochondrial replication origin ori5 induce homologous DNA pairing by Mhr1, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) enhance production of DSBs. Here, we show that a mitochondrial nuclease encoded by the nuclear gene DIN7 (DNA damage inducible gene) has 5'-exodeoxyribonuclease activity. Using a small ρ(-) mtDNA bearing ori5 (hypersuppressive; HS) as a model mtDNA, we revealed that DIN7 is required for ROS-enhanced mtDNA replication and recombination that are both induced at ori5. Din7 overproduction enhanced Mhr1-dependent mtDNA replication and increased the number of residual DSBs at ori5 in HS-ρ(-) cells and increased deletion mutagenesis at the ori5 region in ρ(+) cells. However, simultaneous overproduction of Mhr1 suppressed all of these phenotypes and enhanced homologous recombination. Our results suggest that after homologous pairing, the relative activity levels of Din7 and Mhr1 modulate the preference for replication versus homologous recombination to repair DSBs at ori5.

Study of the use of axial viewed inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry with ultrasonic nebulization for the determination of select elemental impurities in oral drug products.

PubMed

Menoutis, James; Parisi, Angela; Verma, Natasha

2018-04-15

In efforts to control the potential presence of heavy metals in pharmaceuticals, the United States Pharmacopeia (USP) and International Conference on Harmonization (ICH) have put forth new requirements and guidelines for their control. The new requirements and guidelines establish specific daily exposures (PDE) for 24 heavy metals/elemental impurities (EI) based upon their toxicological properties. USP General Chapter 〈233〉 provides a general reference procedure for preparing pharmaceutical samples for analysis employing microwave assisted digestion (MWAD). It also provides two Compendial Procedures, Procedure 1 employing ICP-AES, and Procedure 2 employing ICP-MS. Given the extremely low detection limits afforded by ICP-MS, much work has been done in developing and evaluating analytical methods to support the analysis of elemental impurities in finished pharmaceutical products, active pharmaceutical ingredients, and excipients by this analytical technique. In this study, we have evaluated the use of axial ICP-AES. This employs ultrasonic nebulization (UN) for the determination of Class 1 and 2 EI, instead of traditional pneumatic nebulization. The study also employed closed vessel MWAD to prepare samples for analysis. Limits of quantitation were element specific and significantly lower than the PDEs for oral drugs. Spike recoveries for the elements studied ranged between 89.3% and 109.25%, except for Os, which was subject to OsO4 formation during MWAD. The use of axial ICP-AES UN provides an alternative to ICP-MS in the analysis of EI requiring low detection limits. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Real-life effectiveness and safety of salbutamol Steri-Neb™ vs. Ventolin Nebules® for exacerbations in patients with COPD: Historical cohort study

PubMed Central

Gefen, Eran; Gopalan, Gokul; McDonald, Rosie; Thomas, Vicky; Ming, Simon Wan Yau; Davis, Emily

2018-01-01

Introduction Ventolin Nebules® (reference product; GlaxoSmithKline) was the first licensed nebulizer solution containing the rapid-onset, short-acting β2-agonist salbutamol. Salbutamol Steri-Neb™ (comparator; Teva Pharmaceuticals, Inc.) has the same chemical composition as the reference product. This study evaluated whether the effectiveness of the comparator is non-inferior to the reference product alongside concomitant medications during real-life clinical management of COPD exacerbations. Safety in terms of adverse events (AEs) was also examined. Methods This matched (1:1) historical cohort study evaluated data from 2 UK primary care databases on patients prescribed the salbutamol comparator or reference. The study included a 1-year baseline period, starting 1 year before the index prescription date, and 1-year outcome period. Cohorts were matched for baseline COPD respiratory medications. The primary outcome was analysis of non-inferiority for the comparator versus reference product for the rate of moderate and severe COPD exacerbations. Non-inferiority was satisfied if the 95% confidence interval (CI) upper limit for mean differences in proportions between treatments was <15%. Secondary outcomes were examined through rate ratios (RR) of severe exacerbations and AEs. Results After matching, 1191 patients were included in each cohort. Adjusted upper 95% CI for the difference in proportion of patients experiencing moderate or severe exacerbations between comparator and reference groups was 0.032 (3.2%), demonstrating non-inferiority. No significant differences were observed in rates of moderate and severe exacerbations (RR: 1.00; 95% CI: 0.91, 1.10), severe exacerbations (RR: 0.76; 95% CI: 0.49, 1.17), or AEs (RR: 0.98; 95% CI: 0.78, 1.22) after adjusting for baseline confounders. No significant differences across cohorts were observed for rates of any AE or death. Conclusion This matched cohort study of real-life management of COPD patients supports the

Determination of Rare Earth Elements in multi-year high-resolution Arctic aerosol record by double focusing Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry with desolvation nebulizer inlet system.

PubMed

Giardi, Fabio; Traversi, Rita; Becagli, Silvia; Severi, Mirko; Caiazzo, Laura; Ancillotti, Claudia; Udisti, Roberto

2018-02-01

An inductively coupled plasma sector field mass spectrometer (ICP-SFMS) was used to develop an analytical method for the fast determination of Na, Al, Sc, Ti, V, Cr, Mn, Fe, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Y, Mo, Cd, Ba, La, Ce, Pr, Nd, Sm, Eu, Gd, Tb, Dy, Ho, Er, Tm, Yb, Lu, and Pb in Arctic size-segregated aerosol samples (PM 10 ), after microwave acidic digestion. The ICP-SFMS was coupled with a microflow nebulizer and a desolvation system for the sample introduction, which reduced the isobaric interferences due to oxides and the required volume of sample solutions, compared to the usual nebulization chamber methods. With its very low limit of detection, and taking into account the level of blanks, this method allowed the quantification of many metals in very low concentration. Particular attention was given to Rare Earth Elements (REEs - La to Lu). The efficiency in the extraction of REEs was proved to be acceptable, with recoveries over 83% obtained with a Certified Reference Material (AMiS 0356). The analytical method was then applied to particulate matter samples, collected at ground level in Ny Ålesund (Svalbard Islands, Norway), during spring and summer, from 2010 to 2015, with daily resolution and using a low-volume device. Thus, for the first time, a large atmospheric concentrations dataset of metals in Arctic particulate matter at high temporal resolution is presented. On the basis of differences in LREE/HREE ratio and Ce and Eu anomalies in spring and summer samples, basic information to distinguish local and long-range transported dust were achieved. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Accuracy improvement of the ice flow rate measurements on Antarctic ice sheet by DInSAR method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shiramizu, Kaoru; Doi, Koichiro; Aoyama, Yuichi

2015-04-01

DInSAR (Differential Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar) is an effective tool to measure the flow rate of slow flowing ice streams on Antarctic ice sheet with high resolution. In the flow rate measurement by DInSAR method, we use Digital Elevation Model (DEM) at two times in the estimating process. At first, we use it to remove topographic fringes from InSAR images. And then, it is used to project obtained displacements along Line-Of-Sight (LOS) direction to the actual flow direction. ASTER-GDEM widely-used for InSAR prosessing of the data of polar region has a lot of errors especially in the inland ice sheet area. Thus the errors yield irregular flow rates and directions. Therefore, quality of DEM has a substantial influence on the ice flow rate measurement. In this study, we created a new DEM (resolution 10m; hereinafter referred to as PRISM-DEM) based on ALOS/PRISM images, and compared PRISM-DEM and ASTER-GDEM. The study area is around Skallen, 90km south from Syowa Station, in the southern part of Sôya Coast, East Antarctica. For making DInSAR images, we used ALOS/PALSAR data of 13 pairs (Path633, Row 571-572), observed during the period from November 23, 2007 through January 16, 2011. PRISM-DEM covering the PALSAR scene was created from nadir and backward view images of ALOS/PRISM (Observation date: 2009/1/18) by applying stereo processing with a digital mapping equipment, and then the automatically created a primary DEM was corrected manually to make a final DEM. The number of irregular values of actual ice flow rate was reduced by applying PRISM-DEM compared with that by applying ASTER-GDEM. Additionally, an averaged displacement of approximately 0.5cm was obtained by applying PRISM-DEM over outcrop area, where no crustal displacement considered to occur during the recurrence period of ALOS/PALSAR (46days), while an averaged displacement of approximately 1.65 cm was observed by applying ASTER-GDEM. Since displacements over outcrop area are considered

Dinámica de planetas extrasolares resonantes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Beauge, C.

Actualmente se han detectado 117 planetas alrededor de estrellas de Secuencia Principal, incluyendo 12 sistemas planetarios, cada uno con dos o tres miembros. De estos últimos, ocho poseen planetas en órbitas próximas y sus perturbaciones gravitacionales se convierten en un factor fundamental para la estabilidad orbital del sistema. Todos se encuentran en configuraciones resonantes, desde la conmensurabilidad de movimientos 2/1 de Gliese 876, hasta la resonancia secular de Ups And. En esta presentación analizamos varios aspectos de la dinámica resonante de los planetas extrasolares, incluyendo la existencia de soluciones de equilibrio, construcción de modelos analógicos y métodos para la determinación de masas individuales. También discutimos por qué las resonancias son tan frecuentes en estos sistemas, comparado con nuestro propio Sistema Solar. Por último, intentamos relacionar estos modelos con la hipótesis de migración planetaria, buscando límites en su extensión y en los posibles mecanismos que le dieron origen.

In-situ droplet monitoring for self-tuning spectrometers

DOEpatents

Montaser, Akbar; Jorabchi, Kaveh; Kahen, Kaveh

2010-09-28

A laser scattering based imaging technique is utilized in order to visualize the aerosol droplets in an inductively coupled plasma (ICP) torch from an aerosol source to the site of analytical measurements. The resulting snapshots provide key information about the spatial distribution of the aerosol introduced by direct and indirect injection devices: 1) a direct injection high efficiency nebulizer (DIHEN); 2) a large-bore DIHEN (LB-DIHEN); and 3) a PFA microflow nebulizer with a PFA Scott-type spray chamber. Moreover, particle image velocimetry (PIV) is used to study the in-situ behavior of the aerosol before interaction with, for example, plasma, while the individual surviving droplets are explored by particle tracking velocimetry (PTV). Further, the velocity distribution of the surviving droplets demonstrates the importance of the initial droplet velocities in complete desolvation of the aerosol for optimum analytical performance in ICP spectrometries. These new observations are important in the design of the next-generation direct injection devices for lower sample consumption, higher sensitivity, lower noise levels, suppressed matrix effects, and for developing smart spectrometers. For example, a controller can be provided to control the output of the aerosol source by controlling the configuration of the source or the gas flow rate via feedback information concerning the aerosol.

Use of ICP/MS with ultrasonic nebulizer for routine determination of uranium activity ratios in natural water

USGS Publications Warehouse

Kraemer, T.F.; Doughten, M.W.; Bullen, T.D.

2002-01-01

A method is described that allows precise determination of 234U/238U activity ratios (UAR) in most natural waters using commonly available inductively coupled plasma/mass spectrometry (ICP/MS) instrumentation and accessories. The precision achieved by this technique (??0.5% RSD, 1 sigma) is intermediate between thermal ionization mass spectrometry (??0.25% RSID, 1 sigma) and alpha particle spectrometry (??5% RSD, 1 sigma). It is precise and rapid enough to allow analysis of a large number of samples in a short period of time at low cost using standard, commercially available quadrupole instrumentation with ultrasonic nebulizer and desolvator accessories. UARs have been analyzed successfully in fresh to moderately saline waters with U concentrations of from less than 1 ??g/L to nearly 100 ??g/L. An example of the uses of these data is shown for a study of surface-water mixing in the North Platte River in western Nebraska. This rapid and easy technique should encourage the wider use of uranium isotopes in surface-water and groundwater investigations, both for qualitative (e.g. identifying sources of water) and quantitative (e.g. determining end-member mixing ratios purposes.

Quantitative analysis of lead in aqueous solutions by ultrasonic nebulizer assisted laser induced breakdown spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhong, Shi-Lei; Lu, Yuan; Kong, Wei-Jin; Cheng, Kai; Zheng, Ronger

2016-08-01

In this study, an ultrasonic nebulizer unit was established to improve the quantitative analysis ability of laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) for liquid samples detection, using solutions of the heavy metal element Pb as an example. An analytical procedure was designed to guarantee the stability and repeatability of the LIBS signal. A series of experiments were carried out strictly according to the procedure. The experimental parameters were optimized based on studies of the pulse energy influence and temporal evolution of the emission features. The plasma temperature and electron density were calculated to confirm the LTE state of the plasma. Normalizing the intensities by background was demonstrated to be an appropriate method in this work. The linear range of this system for Pb analysis was confirmed over a concentration range of 0-4,150ppm by measuring 12 samples with different concentrations. The correlation coefficient of the fitted calibration curve was as high as 99.94% in the linear range, and the LOD of Pb was confirmed as 2.93ppm. Concentration prediction experiments were performed on a further six samples. The excellent quantitative ability of the system was demonstrated by comparison of the real and predicted concentrations of the samples. The lowest relative error was 0.043% and the highest was no more than 7.1%.

Injection System for Multi-Well Injection Using a Single Pump

PubMed Central

Wovkulich, Karen; Stute, Martin; Protus, Thomas J.; Mailloux, Brian J.; Chillrud, Steven N.

2015-01-01

Many hydrological and geochemical studies rely on data resulting from injection of tracers and chemicals into groundwater wells. The even distribution of liquids to multiple injection points can be challenging or expensive, especially when using multiple pumps. An injection system was designed using one chemical metering pump to evenly distribute the desired influent simultaneously to 15 individual injection points through an injection manifold. The system was constructed with only one metal part contacting the fluid due to the low pH of the injection solutions. The injection manifold system was used during a three-month pilot scale injection experiment at the Vineland Chemical Company Superfund site. During the two injection phases of the experiment (Phase I = 0.27 L/min total flow, Phase II = 0.56 L/min total flow), flow measurements were made 20 times over three months; an even distribution of flow to each injection well was maintained (RSD <4%). This durable system is expandable to at least 16 injection points and should be adaptable to other injection experiments that require distribution of air-stable liquids to multiple injection points with a single pump. PMID:26140014

Direct-injection screening for acidic drugs in plasma and neutral drugs in equine urine by differential-gradient LC-LC coupled MS/MS.

PubMed

Stanley, Shawn M R; Wee, Wei Khee; Lim, Boon Huat; Foo, Hsiao Ching

2007-04-01

Direct-injection LC-LC hybrid tandem MS methods have been developed for undertaking broad-based screening for acidic drugs in protein-precipitated plasma and neutral doping agents in equine urine. In both analyses, analytes present in the matrix were trapped using a HLB extraction column before being refocused and separated on a Chromolith RP-18e monolithic analytical column using a controlled differential gradient generated by proportional dilution of the first column's eluent with water. Each method has been optimised by the adoption of a mobile phase and gradient that was tailored to enhance ionisation in the MS source while maintaining good chromatographic behaviour for the majority of the target drugs. The analytical column eluent was fed into the heated nebulizer (HN) part of the Duospray interface attached to a 4000 QTRAP mass spectrometer. Information dependent acquisition (IDA) with dynamic background subtraction (DBS) was configured to trigger a sensitive enhanced product ion (EPI) scan when a multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) survey scan signal exceeded the defined criteria. Ninety-one percent of acidic drugs in protein-precipitated plasma and 80% of the neutral compounds in equine urine were detected when spiked at 10 ng/ml.

Non-injection Drug Use and Injection Initiation Assistance among People Who Inject Drugs in Tijuana, Mexico.

PubMed

Ben Hamida, Amen; Rafful, Claudia; Jain, Sonia; Sun, Shelly; Gonzalez-Zuniga, Patricia; Rangel, Gudelia; Strathdee, Steffanie A; Werb, Dan

2018-02-01

Although most people who inject drugs (PWID) report receiving assistance during injection initiation events, little research has focused on risk factors among PWID for providing injection initiation assistance. We therefore sought to determine the influence of non-injection drug use among PWID on their risk to initiate others. We used generalized estimating equation (GEE) models on longitudinal data among a prospective cohort of PWID in Tijuana, Mexico (Proyecto El Cuete IV), while controlling for potential confounders. At baseline, 534 participants provided data on injection initiation assistance. Overall, 14% reported ever initiating others, with 4% reporting this behavior recently (i.e., in the past 6 months). In a multivariable GEE model, recent non-injection drug use was independently associated with providing injection initiation assistance (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 2.42, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.39-4.20). Further, in subanalyses examining specific drug types, recent non-injection use of cocaine (AOR = 9.31, 95% CI = 3.98-21.78), heroin (AOR = 4.00, 95% CI = 1.88-8.54), and methamphetamine (AOR = 2.03, 95% CI = 1.16-3.55) were all significantly associated with reporting providing injection initiation assistance. Our findings may have important implications for the development of interventional approaches to reduce injection initiation and related harms. Further research is needed to validate findings and inform future approaches to preventing entry into drug injecting.

Developmental and Cell Cycle Quiescence Is Mediated by the Nuclear Hormone Receptor Coregulator DIN-1S in the Caenorhabditis elegans Dauer Larva.

PubMed

Colella, Eileen; Li, Shaolin; Roy, Richard

2016-08-01

When faced with suboptimal growth conditions, Caenorhabditis elegans larvae can enter a diapause-like stage called "dauer" that is specialized for dispersal and survival. The decision to form a dauer larva is controlled by three parallel signaling pathways, whereby a compromise of TGFβ, cyclic guanosine monophosphate, or insulin/IGF-like signaling (ILS) results in dauer formation. Signals from these pathways converge on DAF-12, a nuclear hormone receptor that triggers the changes required to initiate dauer formation. DAF-12 is related to the vitamin D, liver-X, and androstane receptors, and like these human receptors, it responds to lipophilic hormone ligands. When bound to its ligand, DAF-12 acquires transcriptional activity that directs reproductive development, while unliganded DAF-12 forms a dauer-specifying complex with its interacting protein DIN-1S to regulate the transcription of genes required for dauer development. We report here that din-1S is required in parallel to par-4/LKB1 signaling within the gonad to establish cell cycle quiescence during the onset of the dauer stage. We show that din-1S is important for postdauer reproduction when ILS is impaired and is necessary for long-term dauer survival in response to reduced ILS. Our work uncovers several previously uncharacterized functions of DIN-1S in executing and maintaining many of the cellular and physiological processes required for appropriate dauer arrest, while also shedding light on the coordination of nuclear hormone signaling, the LKB1/AMPK signaling cascade, and ILS/TGFβ in the control of cell cycle quiescence and tissue growth: a key feature that is often misregulated in a number of hormone-dependent cancers. Copyright © 2016 by the Genetics Society of America.

Dinámica global en galaxias elípticas

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pérez, M. J.; Cincotta, P. M.; Giordano, C. M.

Con el propósito de determinar propiedades dinámicas globales en sistemas triaxiales no integrables, utilizamos una nueva herramienta conocida como ``Mean Exponential Growth factor of Nearby Orbits'' (MEGNO), introducida por Cincotta y Simó (2000). Esta técnica no sólo resulta eficiente para investigar ambas componentes del espacio fase, regular y caótica, sino que también, provee una medida de la hiperbolicidad en el dominio caótico que coincide con la dada por el Lyapunov Characteristic Number (LCN). Previamente este método ha sido aplicado al estudio de modelos simples, y últimamente en el campo de la Mecánica Celeste, al estudio de sistemas planetarios extrasolares. En esta presentación, ilustraremos algunas de las propiedades más importantes del MEGNO, aplic& acute;andolo al potencial tridimensional de Stäckel perturbado.

Finite Element Simulations of Kaikoura, NZ Earthquake using DInSAR and High-Resolution DSMs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Barba, M.; Willis, M. J.; Tiampo, K. F.; Glasscoe, M. T.; Clark, M. K.; Zekkos, D.; Stahl, T. A.; Massey, C. I.

2017-12-01

Three-dimensional displacements from the Kaikoura, NZ, earthquake in November 2016 are imaged here using Differential Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (DInSAR) and high-resolution Digital Surface Model (DSM) differencing and optical pixel tracking. Full-resolution co- and post-seismic interferograms of Sentinel-1A/B images are constructed using the JPL ISCE software. The OSU SETSM software is used to produce repeat 0.5 m posting DSMs from commercial satellite imagery, which are supplemented with UAV derived DSMs over the Kaikoura fault rupture on the eastern South Island, NZ. DInSAR provides long-wavelength motions while DSM differencing and optical pixel tracking provides both horizontal and vertical near fault motions, improving the modeling of shallow rupture dynamics. JPL GeoFEST software is used to perform finite element modeling of the fault segments and slip distributions and, in turn, the associated asperity distribution. The asperity profile is then used to simulate event rupture, the spatial distribution of stress drop, and the associated stress changes. Finite element modeling of slope stability is accomplished using the ultra high-resolution UAV derived DSMs to examine the evolution of post-earthquake topography, landslide dynamics and volumes. Results include new insights into shallow dynamics of fault slip and partitioning, estimates of stress change, and improved understanding of its relationship with the associated seismicity, deformation, and triggered cascading hazards.

Flow injection on-line displacement/solid phase extraction system coupled with flame atomic absorption spectrometry for selective trace silver determination in water samples.

PubMed

Christou, Chrysoula K; Anthemidis, Aristidis N

2009-04-15

A novel flow injection (FI) on-line displacement solid phase extraction preconcentration and/or separation method coupled with FAAS in order to minimize interference from other metals was developed for trace silver determination. The proposed method involved the on-line formation and subsequently pre-sorption of lead diethyldithiocarbamate (Pb-DDTC) into a column packed with PTFE-turnings. The preconcentration and/or separation of the Ag(I) took place through a displacement reaction between Ag(I) and Pb(II) of the pre-sorbed Pb-DDTC. Finally, the retained analyte was eluted with isobutyl methyl ketone (IBMK) and delivered directly to nebulizer for measuring. Interference from co-existing ions with lower DDTC complex stability in comparison with Pb-DDTC, was eliminated without need for any masking reagent. With 120 s of preconcentration time at a sample flow rate of 7.6 mL min(-1), an enhancement factor of 110 and a detection limit (3s) of 0.2 microg L(-1) were obtained. The precision (RSD, n=10) was 3.1% at the 10 mug L(-1) level. The developed method was successfully applied to trace silver determination in a variety of environmental water samples and certified reference material.

Granisetron Injection

MedlinePlus

... and vomiting that may occur after surgery. Granisetron extended-release (long-acting) injection is used with other ... be injected intravenously (into a vein) and granisetron extended-release injection comes as a liquid to be ...

Deltoid Injections of Risperidone Long-acting Injectable in Patients with Schizophrenia

PubMed Central

Quiroz, Jorge A.; Rusch, Sarah; Thyssen, An; Kushner, Stuart

2011-01-01

Background Risperidone long-acting injectable was previously approved for treatment of schizophrenia as biweekly injections in the gluteal muscle only. We present data on local injection-site tolerability and safety of risperidone long-acting injectable and comparability of systemic exposure of deltoid versus gluteal injections. Methods Risperidone long-acting injectable was administered in an open-label, single-dose, two-way crossover study, with patients randomized to receive either 25mg gluteal/37.5mg deltoid crossover in two treatment periods or 50mg gluteal/50mg deltoid injections crossover; each treatment period was separated by an 85-day observation period (Study 1) and an open-label, multiple-dose study (4 sequential 37.5mg or 50mg deltoid injections every 2 weeks) (Study 2). The pharmacokinetic results from both the studies have already been published. Results In Study 1 (n=170), the majority of patients had no local injection-site findings, based on investigator and patient-rated evaluations. In Study 2 (n=53), seven of the 51 patients who received at least two deltoid injections discontinued (primary endpoint). However, none of the discontinuations were due to injection-site related reasons. The 90-percent upper confidence limit of the true proportion of injection-site issue withdrawals was 5.7 percent. No moderate or severe injection-site reactions were reported. Conclusion Intramuscular injections via the deltoid and gluteal sites are equivalent routes of administration of risperidone long-acting injectable with respect to local injection-site tolerability. The overall safety and tolerability profile of risperidone long-acting injectable was comparable when administered as an intramuscular injection in the deltoid (37.5mg and 50mg) and gluteal (25mg and 50mg) sites. PMID:21779538

Effect of nebulized eucalyptus on contamination of microbial plaque of endotracheal tube in ventilated patients

PubMed Central

Amini, Nazanin; Rezaei, Korosh; Yazdannik, Ahmadreza

2016-01-01

Background: Formation of biofilm and bacterial colonization within the endotracheal tube (ETT) are significant sources of airway contamination and play a role in the development of ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP). This study was conducted to examine the effect of nebulized eucalyptus (NE) on bacterial colonization of ETT biofilm. Materials and Methods: We performed a randomized clinical trial in three intensive care units (ICUs) of an educational hospital. Seventy intubated patients were selected and randomly divided into intervention (n = 35) and control (n = 35) groups. The intervention group received 4 ml (5%) of eucalyptus in 6 ml normal saline every 8 h. The placebo group received only 10 ml of normal saline in the same way. On extubation, the interior of the tube was immediately sampled using a sterile swab for standard microbiological analysis. Chi-square and Fisher's exact tests were used for statistical analysis in SPSS. P values less than 0.05 were considered statistically significant. Results: In both samples, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Acinetobacter baumannii were the most frequently isolated bacteria. In the control group, heavy colonization was greater than in the intervention group (P = 0.002). The frequency of isolation of K. pneumoniae in the intervention group was lower than in the control group (P < 0.001). However, there was no difference between the two groups in other isolated bacteria. Conclusions: NE can reduce microbial contamination of the endotracheal tube biofilm in ventilated patients. Moreover, K. pneumoniae was the most sensitive to NE. PMID:27095990

Nusinersen Injection

MedlinePlus

Nusinersen injection comes as a solution (liquid) to inject intrathecally (into the fluid-filled space of the spinal canal). Nusinersen injection is given by a doctor in a medical office or clinic. It is usually given as ...

Inhaled Steroids

MedlinePlus

... and Spacer AeroChamber® AeroChamber® with Mask RediHaler® Nebulizers Pari LC® Star Nebulizer with Amikacin Using a Nebulizer Nebulizer with a Mask Pari LC Jet+™ Nebulizer Pari LC® Sprint Reusable Nebulizer ...

About Steroids (Inhaled and Oral Corticosteroids)

MedlinePlus

... and Spacer AeroChamber® AeroChamber® with Mask RediHaler® Nebulizers Pari LC® Star Nebulizer with Amikacin Using a Nebulizer Nebulizer with a Mask Pari LC Jet+™ Nebulizer Pari LC® Sprint Reusable Nebulizer ...

Fatigue of DIN 1.4914 martensitic stainless steel in a hydrogen environment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shakib, J. I.; Ullmaier, H.; Little, E. A.; Faulkner, R. G.; Schmilz, W.; Chung, T. E.

1994-09-01

Fatigue tests at room temperature in vacuum, air and hydrogen have been carried out on specimens of DIN 1.4914 martensitic stainless steel in load-controlled, push-pull type experiments. Fatigue lifetimes in hydrogen are significantly lower than in both vacuum and air and the degradation is enhanced by lowering the test frequency or introducing hold times into the tension half-cycle. Fractographic examinations reveal hydrogen embrittlement effects in the form of internal cracking between fatigue striations together with surface modifications, particularly at low stress amplitudes. It is suggested that gaseous hydrogen can influence both fatigue crack initiation and propagation events in martensitic steels.

Caractérisations structurale et morphologique des couches minces de CuInS2 et d'In-S "airless spray"

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kamoun, N.; Belgacem, S.; Amlouk, M.; Bennaceur, R.; Abdelmoula, K.; Belhadj Amara, A.

1994-03-01

We have prepared CuInS2 thin layers by airless spray "S.P.A." in order to use them as an absorber in a photovoltaic cell. The X-ray diffraction analysis has showed that these layers are well crystallized with a privileged (112) principal orientation for a ratio of the concentrations in the pulverized solution x=frac[Cu^I][In^{III]}=1.1. After heat treatment under vacuum the crystallization have been clearly improved. The structural analysis of the thin CuInS2 layers have revealed that a secondary phases of In2S3 and In6S7 are present. Thus we have realized by the same technique thin In-S layers whose structural and morphological properties have been studied. This analysis has showed that the In-S layers are well crystallized for a ratio y=frac[In^{3+]}[S^{2-]}=0.6 in the spray solution. The In-S layers are essentially formed by a β-In2S3 material. Although the In6S7 phase appears to the detriment of β-In2S3 phase for y= 0.75. Nous avons préparé des couches minces de CuInS2, par pulvérisation chimique réactive sans air "P.S.A.", en vue de leur utilisation en tant qu'absorbeur dans un dispositif photovoltaïque. L'analyse par diffraction X a montré que ces couches sont bien cristallisées et que l'orientation principale (112) est privilégiée pour un rapport de concentrations x=frac[Cu^I]{[In^{III}]}=1,1 dans la solution à pulvériser. Après le traitement thermique sous vide la cristallisation est nettement améliorée. L'analyse structurale des couches minces de CuInS2 a révélé que ces couches renferment des phases secondaires d'In2S3 et d'In6S7. Ainsi nous avons réalisé par la même technique "P.S.A.", des couches minces d'In-S dont nous avons étudié les propriétés structurales et morphologiques, Cette analyse a montré que les couches d'In-S sont bien cristallisées. Pour un rapport de concentrations en solution de pulvérisation y=frac[In^{3+]}[S^{2-]}=0,6 les couches d'In-S sont surtout formées du matériau β-In2S3. Alors que la phase In6S7

DIN 1.7035 Steel Modification with High Intensity Nitrogen Ion Implantation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ryabchikov, A. I.; Sivin, D. O.; Anan'in, P. S.; Ivanova, A. I.; Uglov, V. V.; Korneva, O. S.

2018-06-01

The paper presents research results on the formation of deep ion-modified layers of the grade DIN 1.7035 alloy steel due to a high intensity, repetitively-pulsed nitrogen ion beams with the ion current density of up to 0.5 A/cm2. The formation of a low-energy, high intensity nitrogen ion beam is based on a plasma immersion ion extraction followed by the ballistic focusing in the equipotential drift region. The nitrogen ion implantation in steel specimens is performed at a 1.2 keV energy and 450, 500, 580 and 650°C temperatures during 60 minutes. The morphology, elementary composition and mechanical properties are investigated in deep layers of steel specimens alloyed with nitrogen ions.

Dinámica y crecimiento de los granos de polvo en la nebulosa protoplanetaria

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

de La Fuente Marcos, Carlos

2001-06-01

En el escenario estándar de la formación planetaria, los planetesimales (cuerpos de tamaño kilométrico) crecen a partir de granos de polvo, similares a los interestelares, embebidos en un disco gaseoso denominado nebulosa protoplanetaria. Durante esta etapa, los movimientos del gas pueden tener gran influencia en la dinámica y el crecimiento de los granos de polvo, dado que el flujo kepleriano del gas frena el movimiento de los mismos haciendo que caigan hacia el Sol, y la turbulencia inhibe la inestabilidad gravitacional de la capa de polvo. Aunque se acepta que los planetesimales fueron los elementos constituyentes de los planetas, todavía se desconoce cómo se produjo la formación de los mismos. Por esta razón, en los estudios más recientes, existe un renovado interés por comprender mejor la evolución de la capa de polvo inmersa en el disco gaseoso de la Nebulosa. El gas que fluye en el disco puede engendrar estructuras carentes de simetría axial, como por ejemplo ondas espirales y vórtices, a partir de gran variedad de mecanismos de excitación e inestabilidad. En 1995, Barge y Sommeria pusieron de manifiesto que la existencia de vórtices gaseosos persistentes en la nebulosa solar tendría importantes consecuencias sobre la formación de los planetesimales y el posterior crecimiento de los planetas gigantes. La investigación desarrollada en esta Tesis analiza la relación entre el polvo y el gas debida al acoplamiento por fricción dinámica entre ambos; en concreto, se estudia el efecto del flujo medio del gas sobre la dinámica de las partículas de polvo. El primer objetivo es investigar en profundidad los procesos de captura y crecimiento de los granos de polvo dentro de un vórtice y su posible relevancia en cuanto a la formación de los planetesimales. El segundo objetivo es la exploración de los efectos de ondas espirales propagándose en el disco gaseoso sobre la dinámica y el crecimiento de las partículas. La presencia de líneas de

Pre-eruptive ground deformation of Azerbaijan mud volcanoes detected through satellite radar interferometry (DInSAR)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Antonielli, Benedetta; Monserrat, Oriol; Bonini, Marco; Righini, Gaia; Sani, Federico; Luzi, Guido; Feyzullayev, Akper A.; Aliyev, Chingiz S.

2014-12-01

Mud volcanism is a process that leads to the extrusion of subsurface mud, fragments of country rocks, saline waters and gases. This mechanism is typically linked to hydrocarbon traps, and the extrusion of this material builds up a variety of conical edifices with a similar morphology to those of magmatic volcanoes, though smaller in size. The Differential Interferometry Synthetic Aperture Radar (DInSAR) technique has been used to investigate the ground deformation related to the activity of the mud volcanoes of Azerbaijan. The analysis of a set of wrapped and unwrapped interferograms, selected according to their coherence, allowed the detection of significant superficial deformation related to the activity of four mud volcanoes. The ground displacement patterns observed during the period spanning from October 2003 to November 2005 are dominated by uplift, which reach a cumulative value of up to 20 and 10 cm at the Ayaz-Akhtarma and Khara-Zira Island mud volcanoes, respectively. However, some sectors of the mud volcano edifices are affected by subsidence, which might correspond to deflation zones that coexist with the inflation zones characterized by the dominant uplift. Important deformation events, caused by fluid pressure and volume variations, have been observed both (1) in connection with main eruptive events in the form of pre-eruptive uplift, and (2) in the form of short-lived deformation pulses that interrupt a period of quiescence. Both deformation patterns show important similarities to those identified in some magmatic systems. The pre-eruptive uplift has been observed in many magmatic volcanoes as a consequence of magma intrusion or hydrothermal fluid injection. Moreover, discrete short-duration pulses of deformation are also experienced by magmatic volcanoes and are repeated over time as multiple inflation and deflation events.

Measuring tissue back-pressure--in vivo injection forces during subcutaneous injection.

PubMed

Allmendinger, Andrea; Mueller, Robert; Schwarb, Edward; Chipperfield, Mark; Huwyler, Joerg; Mahler, Hanns-Christian; Fischer, Stefan

2015-07-01

Limited information is available on injection forces of parenterals representing the in vivo situation. Scope of the present study was to investigate the contribution of the subcutaneous (sc) tissue layer to injection forces during in vivo injection. Göttingen minipigs received injections of isotonic dextran solutions (1-100 mPas) into the plica inguinalis using different injection rates and volumes (0.025-0.2 mL/s and 2.5 vs. 4.5 mL). The contribution of the sc back-pressure to injection forces was found to increase linearly with viscosity and injection rate ranging from 0.6 ± 0.5 N to 1.0 ± 0.4 N (1 mPas), 0.7 ± 0.2 N to 2.4 ± 1.9 N (10 mPas), and 1.8 ± 0.6 N to 4.7 ± 3.3 N (20 mPas) for injection rates of 0.025 to 0.2 mL/s, respectively. Variability increased with viscosity and injection rate. Values are average values from 10 randomized injections. A maximum of 12.9 N was reached for 20 mPas at 0.2 mL/s; 6.9 ± 0.3 N was determined for 100 mPas at 0.025 mL/s. No difference was found between injection volumes of 2.5 and 4.5 mL. The contribution of the tissue was differentiated from the contribution of the injection device and a local temperature effect. This effect was leading to warming of the (equilibrated) sample in the needle, therefore smaller injection forces than expected compensating tissue resistance to some parts. When estimating injection forces representative for the in vivo situation, the contribution of the tissue has to be considered as well as local warming of the sample in the needle during injection.

Sensitive determination of Hg together with Mn, Fe, Cu by combined photochemical vapor generation and pneumatic nebulization in the programmable temperature spray chamber and inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry.

PubMed

Giersz, Jacek; Bartosiak, Magdalena; Jankowski, Krzysztof

2017-05-15

Continuous photo-induced generation of mercury cold vapor has been successfully coupled with conventional pneumatic nebulization in programmable temperature spray chamber (PCVG-PN-PTSC) allowing fast, sensitive and easy multi-element analysis. The applied technique enabled simultaneous determination of non-volatile forming elements (Fe, Cu, Mn) and volatile Hg, while 15% v/v formic acid is present in the sample. PTSC elevated temperature (40°C) causes partial conversion of sample matrix into vapor form, thus improving plasma robustness. The efficiency of Hg vapor generation and its transport to the plasma is close to 100%. Moreover, spray chamber temperature stabilization improved the precision of the measurements (Hg signal RSD below 0.5%). The achieved limit of detection for Hg (90pgmL -1 ) at 194.23nm with no monochromator purge is better by almost two orders of magnitude than that obtained by conventional PN-ICP-OES. On the other hand, LODs for non-vapor forming elements are comparable to those obtained with pneumatic nebulization. The linear dynamic ranges for all examined elements are at least three orders of magnitude up to 1000ngmL -1 . None mutual interference between examined analytes (Hg, Fe, Cu, Mn) has been observed. The method was validated by the analysis of two CRM materials of different matrix composition (waste water ERM CA713 and estuarine sediment ERM CC580) giving satisfactory results. As low as 2 ppb of Hg can he directly determined in waste water. The proposed procedure uses mild reagents and allows for fast multi-element analysis, and matches green chemistry requirements. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

The impact of high-resolution topography on landslide characterization using DInSAR

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tiampo, K. F.; Barba, M.; Jacquemart, M. F.; Willis, M. J.; González, P. J.; McKee, C.; Samsonov, S. V.; Feng, W.

2017-12-01

Differential interferometric synthetic aperture radar (DInSAR) can measure surface deformation at the centimeter level and, as a result, has been used to investigate a wide variety of natural hazards since the 1990s. In general, short spatial and temporal baselines are selected to reduce decorrelation and the effect of incorrect removal of the topographic component in differential interferograms. The nearly global coverage of the Shuttle Radar Topography Mission (SRTM) digital elevation models (DEMs) significantly simplified and improved the modelling and removal of topography for differential interferometric applications. However, DEMs are produced today at much finer resolutions, although with varying availability and cost. SRTM DEMs are freely available at 30 m resolution world-wide and 10 m resolution in the US. The TanDEM-X mission has produced a worldwide DEM at 12 m, although it is not generally free of cost. Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) DEMs can provide better than 1m resolution, but are expensive to produce over limited extents. Finally, DEMs from optical data can be produced from Digital Globe satellite images over larger regions at resolutions of less than 1 m, subject to various restrictions. It can be shown that the coherence quality of a DInSAR image is directly related to the DEM resolution, improving recovery of the differential phase by significantly reducing the geometric decorrelation, and that the number of recovered pixels significantly increases with higher resolutions, particularly in steep topography. In this work we quantify that improvement for varying resolutions, from 1 to 30 m, and slopes and investigate its effect on the characterization of landslides in different regions and with a variety of surface conditions, including Greenland, Alaska, California, and the Canary Islands.

Compressed air injection technique to standardize block injection pressures.

PubMed

Tsui, Ban C H; Li, Lisa X Y; Pillay, Jennifer J

2006-11-01

Presently, no standardized technique exists to monitor injection pressures during peripheral nerve blocks. Our objective was to determine if a compressed air injection technique, using an in vitro model based on Boyle's law and typical regional anesthesia equipment, could consistently maintain injection pressures below a 1293 mmHg level associated with clinically significant nerve injury. Injection pressures for 20 and 30 mL syringes with various needle sizes (18G, 20G, 21G, 22G, and 24G) were measured in a closed system. A set volume of air was aspirated into a saline-filled syringe and then compressed and maintained at various percentages while pressure was measured. The needle was inserted into the injection port of a pressure sensor, which had attached extension tubing with an injection plug clamped "off". Using linear regression with all data points, the pressure value and 99% confidence interval (CI) at 50% air compression was estimated. The linearity of Boyle's law was demonstrated with a high correlation, r = 0.99, and a slope of 0.984 (99% CI: 0.967-1.001). The net pressure generated at 50% compression was estimated as 744.8 mmHg, with the 99% CI between 729.6 and 760.0 mmHg. The various syringe/needle combinations had similar results. By creating and maintaining syringe air compression at 50% or less, injection pressures will be substantially below the 1293 mmHg threshold considered to be an associated risk factor for clinically significant nerve injury. This technique may allow simple, real-time and objective monitoring during local anesthetic injections while inherently reducing injection speed.

"Injection first": a unique group of injection drug users in Tijuana, Mexico.

PubMed

Morris, Meghan D; Brouwer, Kimberly C; Lozada, Remedios M; Gallardo, Manuel; Vera, Alicia; Strathdee, Steffanie A

2012-01-01

Using baseline data from a study of injection drug users (IDUs) in Tijuana, Mexico (N = 1,052), we identified social and behavioral factors associated with injecting at the same age or earlier than other administration routes of illicit drug use (eg, "injection first") and examined whether this IDU subgroup had riskier drug using and sexual behaviors than other IDUs. Twelve-percent "injected first." Characteristics independently associated with a higher odds of "injection first" included being younger at first injection, injecting heroin as their first drug, being alone at the first injection episode, and having a sexual debut at the same age or earlier as when they initiated drug use; family members' illicit drug use was associated with lower odds of injecting first. When adjusting for age at first injection and number of years injecting, "injection first" IDUs had lower odds of ever overdosing, and ever trading sex. On the other hand, they were less likely to have ever been enrolled in drug treatment, and more commonly obtained their syringes from potentially unsafe sources. In conclusion, a sizable proportion of IDUs in Tijuana injected as their first drug using experience, although evidence that this was a riskier subgroup of IDUs was inconclusive.  Copyright © American Academy of Addiction Psychiatry.

Prevalence and characteristics of femoral injection among Seattle-area injection drug users.

PubMed

Coffin, Phillip O; Coffin, Lara S; Murphy, Shilo; Jenkins, Lindsay M; Golden, Matthew R

2012-04-01

Injection drug use (IDU) into central veins, most common among long-term IDUs with no other options, can lead to severe infectious, vascular, and traumatic medical consequences. To follow-up on anecdotal reports of femoral vein injection and related medical problems in Seattle, we analyzed data from the annual survey of a community-based syringe exchange program. A total of 276 (81%) of 343 program attendees completed the survey in August 2010. Among 248 IDUs, 66% were male, 78% white, and 86% primarily injected opiates. One hundred respondents (40%) had injected into the femoral vein, 55% of whom were actively doing so, and 58% of whom reported medical complications that they attributed to the practice. Most (66%) used the femoral vein due to difficulty accessing other veins, although 61% reported other veins they could access and 67% reporting using other sites since initiating femoral injection. While injecting into muscle was more frequent among older IDUs with longer injection careers, the prevalence of femoral injection was highest among respondents in their late twenties with 2.5-6 years of injecting drugs. Multivariate analysis demonstrated an increased risk of initiating femoral injection each calendar year after 2007. Injecting into the femoral vein was also associated with white versus other race (odds ratio [OR] 2.7, 95% CI 1.3-5.4) and injection of primarily opiates versus other drugs (OR 6.3, 95% CI 1.2-32.9) and not associated with age, length of IDU career, or a history of injecting into muscle. These findings suggest a secular trend of increasing femoral injection among Seattle-area IDUs with a high rate of related medical problems. Interventions, such as education regarding the hazards of central venous injection and guidance on safe injection into peripheral veins, are needed to minimize the health consequences of femoral injection.

Unsupervised SBAS-DInSAR Processing of Space-borne SAR data for Earth Surface Displacement Time Series Generation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Casu, F.; de Luca, C.; Lanari, R.; Manunta, M.; Zinno, I.

2016-12-01

During the last 25 years, the Differential Synthetic Aperture Radar Interferometry (DInSAR) has played an important role for understanding the Earth's surface deformation and its dynamics. In particular, the large collections of SAR data acquired by a number of space-borne missions (ERS, ENVISAT, ALOS, RADARSAT, TerraSAR-X, COSMO-SkyMed) have pushed toward the development of advanced DInSAR techniques for monitoring the temporal evolution of the ground displacements with an high spatial density. Moreover, the advent of the Copernicus Sentinel-1 (S1) constellation is providing a further increase in the SAR data flow available to the Earth science community, due to its characteristics of global coverage strategy and free and open access data policy. Therefore, managing and storing such a huge amount of data, processing it in an effcient way and maximizing the available archives exploitation are becoming high priority issues. In this work we present some recent advances in the DInSAR field for dealing with the effective exploitation of the present and future SAR data archives. In particular, an efficient parallel SBAS implementation (namely P-SBAS) that takes benefit from high performance computing is proposed. Then, the P-SBAS migration to the emerging Cloud Computing paradigm is shown, together with extensive tests carried out in the Amazon's Elastic Cloud Compute (EC2) infrastructure. Finally, the integration of the P-SBAS processing chain within the ESA Geohazards Exploitation Platform (GEP), for setting up operational on-demand and systematic web tools, open to every user, aimed at automatically processing stacks of SAR data for the generation of SBAS displacement time series, is also illustrated. A number of experimental results obtained by using the ERS, ENVISAT and S1 data in areas characterized by volcanic, seismic and anthropogenic phenomena will be shown. This work is partially supported by: the DPC-CNR agreement, the EPOS-IP project and the ESA GEP project.

Solution-based calibration strategy for laser ablation-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry using desolvating nebulizer system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Guoxia; Li, Qing; Zhu, Yan; Wang, Zheng

2018-07-01

An additional quantification strategy using a desolvating nebulizer system (DNS) for solution-based calibration was developed. For quantitative analysis, laser ablation (LA) and DNS-generated aerosols were coupled using a "Y" connector and introduced into the inductively coupled plasma (ICP). These aerosols were also observed by scanning electron microscopy following collection on a silicon chip. Internal standards (108Ag, 64Cu, 89Y) were used to correct for the different aerosol transport efficiencies between the DNS and LA. The correlation coefficients of the calibration curves for all elements ranged from 0.9986 to 0.9999. Standard reference materials (NIST 610-616 and GBW08407-08411) were used to demonstrate the accuracy and precision of the method. The results were in good agreement with certified values, and the relative standard deviation (RSD) of most elements was <3%. The limits of detection (LODs) for 50Cr, 55Mn, 59Co, 60Ni, 66Zn, 89Y, 110Cd, 139La, 140Ce, 146Nd, 147Sm, 157Gd, 163Dy, 166Er, and 208Pb were 23, 3, 3, 19, 31, 4, 12, 0.4, 0.9, 0.1, 0.2, 2, 0.3, 0.4, and 21 ng/g, respectively, which were significantly better than those obtained by other methods. Further, this approach was applied for the analysis of multiple elements in biological tissues, and the results were in good agreement with those obtained using solution-based inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS).

Solid lipid nanoparticles for pulmonary delivery of insulin.

PubMed

Liu, Jie; Gong, Tao; Fu, Hualin; Wang, Changguang; Wang, Xiuli; Chen, Qian; Zhang, Qin; He, Qin; Zhang, Zhirong

2008-05-22

Growing attention has been given to the potential of pulmonary route as an alternative for non-invasive systemic delivery of therapeutic agents. In this study, novel nebulizer-compatible solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) for pulmonary drug delivery of insulin were developed by reverse micelle-double emulsion method. The influences of the amount of sodium cholate (SC) and soybean phosphatidylcholine (SPC) on the deposition properties of the nanoparticles were investigated. Under optimal conditions, the entrapment delivery (ED), respirable fraction (RF) and nebulization efficiency (NE) of SLNs could reach 96.53, 82.11 and 63.28%, respectively, and Ins-SLNs remained stable during nebulization. Fasting plasma glucose level was reduced to 39.41% and insulin level was increased to approximately 170 microIU/ml 4h after pulmonary administration of 20 IU/kg Ins-SLNs. A pharmacological bioavailability of 24.33% and a relative bioavailability of 22.33% were obtained using subcutaneous injection as a reference. Incorporating fluorescent-labelled insulin into SLNs, we found that the SLNs were effectively and homogeneously distributed in the lung alveoli. These findings suggested that SLNs could be used as a potential carrier for pulmonary delivery of insulin by improving both in vitro and in vivo stability as well as prolonging hypoglycemic effect, which inevitably resulted in enhanced bioavailability.

Electrical, optical and structural properties of FTO thin films fabricated by spray ultrasonic nebulizer technique from SnCl4 precursor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lalasari, Latifa Hanum; Arini, Tri; Andriyah, Lia; Firdiyono, F.; Yuwono, Akhmad Herman

2018-05-01

Thin films of fluorine-doped tin oxide on glass were prepared by spray ultrasonic nebulizer technique from an economic anhydrous tin (IV) chloride (SnCl4) precursor. The effect of deposition time on the structural, electrical and optical properties of tin oxide thin films was investigated. This research a purpose to find an optimum deposition time during spray pyrolysis technique in order to produce FTO with the desired characteristics. For this purpose, soda lime glasses are heated at 350 °C on deposition time of 10, 15, 20 and 25 minutes. NH4F was doped at a ratio of 2 wt% in the SnCl4 precursor and methanol solvent. The results revealed that longer deposition times created decreased the electrical resistivity and optical transmittance of FTO layers. The highest optical transmittance was 84.808% and the lowest resistivity was 4.01×10-5 Ω.cm, obtained from FTO glass subjected to a 15-minute deposition time at deposition temperature of 350 °C. This is accordance to the TCO conductive glass requirements for the minimum resistivity value on scale 10-4 Ω.cm and optical transmittance value of 80-85%.

Prevalence and correlates of neck injection among people who inject drugs in Tijuana, Mexico.

PubMed

Rafful, Claudia; Wagner, Karla D; Werb, Dan; González-Zúñiga, Patricia E; Verdugo, Silvia; Rangel, Gudelia; Strathdee, Steffanie A

2015-11-01

Injecting drugs in the neck has been related to adverse health conditions such as jugular vein thrombosis, deep neck infections, aneurysm, haematomas, airway obstruction, vocal cord paralysis and wound botulism, among others. We identified prevalence and correlates of neck injection among people who inject drugs (PWID) in Tijuana, Mexico. Beginning in 2011, PWID aged ≥18 years who injected drugs within the last month were recruited into a prospective cohort. At baseline and semi-annually, PWID completed interviewer-administered surveys soliciting data on drug-injecting practices. Logistic regression was used to identify predictors of injecting in the neck as the most frequent injection site at a single visit. Of 380 PWID, 35.3% injected in the neck at least once in the past 6 months, among whom 71.6% reported it as their most common injection site, the most common injecting site after the arms (47%). Controlling for age, years injecting and injecting frequency, injecting heroin and methamphetamine two or more times per day and having sought injection assistance were associated with injecting in the neck [adjusted odds ratios (AOR): 2.12; 95% confidence intervals (CI): 1.27-3.53 and AOR: 2.65; 95% CI: 1.52-4.53 respectively]. Injecting in the neck was very common among PWID in Tijuana and was associated with polydrug use and seeking injection assistance. Tailoring harm reduction education interventions for individuals who provide injection assistance ('hit doctors') may allow for the dissemination of safe injecting knowledge to reduce injection-related morbidity and mortality. © 2015 Australasian Professional Society on Alcohol and other Drugs.

Small-Volume Injections: Evaluation of Volume Administration Deviation From Intended Injection Volumes.

PubMed

Muffly, Matthew K; Chen, Michael I; Claure, Rebecca E; Drover, David R; Efron, Bradley; Fitch, William L; Hammer, Gregory B

2017-10-01

In the perioperative period, anesthesiologists and postanesthesia care unit (PACU) nurses routinely prepare and administer small-volume IV injections, yet the accuracy of delivered medication volumes in this setting has not been described. In this ex vivo study, we sought to characterize the degree to which small-volume injections (≤0.5 mL) deviated from the intended injection volumes among a group of pediatric anesthesiologists and pediatric postanesthesia care unit (PACU) nurses. We hypothesized that as the intended injection volumes decreased, the deviation from those intended injection volumes would increase. Ten attending pediatric anesthesiologists and 10 pediatric PACU nurses each performed a series of 10 injections into a simulated patient IV setup. Practitioners used separate 1-mL tuberculin syringes with removable 18-gauge needles (Becton-Dickinson & Company, Franklin Lakes, NJ) to aspirate 5 different volumes (0.025, 0.05, 0.1, 0.25, and 0.5 mL) of 0.25 mM Lucifer Yellow (LY) fluorescent dye constituted in saline (Sigma Aldrich, St. Louis, MO) from a rubber-stoppered vial. Each participant then injected the specified volume of LY fluorescent dye via a 3-way stopcock into IV tubing with free-flowing 0.9% sodium chloride (10 mL/min). The injected volume of LY fluorescent dye and 0.9% sodium chloride then drained into a collection vial for laboratory analysis. Microplate fluorescence wavelength detection (Infinite M1000; Tecan, Mannedorf, Switzerland) was used to measure the fluorescence of the collected fluid. Administered injection volumes were calculated based on the fluorescence of the collected fluid using a calibration curve of known LY volumes and associated fluorescence.To determine whether deviation of the administered volumes from the intended injection volumes increased at lower injection volumes, we compared the proportional injection volume error (loge [administered volume/intended volume]) for each of the 5 injection volumes using a linear

Rich catalytic injection

DOEpatents

Veninger, Albert [Coventry, CT

2008-12-30

A gas turbine engine includes a compressor, a rich catalytic injector, a combustor, and a turbine. The rich catalytic injector includes a rich catalytic device, a mixing zone, and an injection assembly. The injection assembly provides an interface between the mixing zone and the combustor. The injection assembly can inject diffusion fuel into the combustor, provides flame aerodynamic stabilization in the combustor, and may include an ignition device.

Anesthetic efficacy of a repeated intraosseous injection following a primary intraosseous injection.

PubMed

Jensen, Joanne; Nusstein, John; Drum, Melissa; Reader, Al; Beck, Mike

2008-02-01

The purpose of this prospective, randomized, single-blinded study was to determine the anesthetic efficacy of a repeated intraosseous injection given 30 minutes after a primary intraosseous injection. Using a crossover design, 55 subjects randomly received a primary X-tip intraosseous injection (Dentsply Inc, York, PA) of 1.4 mL of 2% lidocaine with epinephrine (using the Wand; Milestone Scientific, Deerfield, IL) and a repeated intraosseous or mock injection at 30 minutes in two appointments. The first molar and adjacent teeth were pulp tested every 2 minutes for a total of 120 minutes. Success was defined as obtaining two consecutive 80 readings with the electric pulp tester. Success of the initial intraosseous injection was 100% for the first molar. The repeated intraosseous injection mimicked the initial intraosseous injection in terms of pulpal anesthesia and statistically provided another 15 minutes of pulpal anesthesia. In conclusion, using the methodology presented, repeating the intraosseous injection 30 minutes after an initial intraosseous injection will provide an additional 15 minutes of pulpal anesthesia.

Prevalence and correlates of neck injection among people who inject drugs in Tijuana, Mexico

PubMed Central

RAFFUL, CLAUDIA; WAGNER, KARLA D.; WERB, DAN; GONZÁLEZ-ZÚÑIGA, PATRICIA E.; VERDUGO, SILVIA; RANGEL, GUDELIA; STRATHDEE, STEFFANIE A.

2016-01-01

Introduction and Aims Injecting drugs in the neck has been related to adverse health conditions such as jugular vein thrombosis, deep neck infections, aneurysm, haematomas, airway obstruction, vocal cord paralysis and wound botulism, among others. We identified prevalence and correlates of neck injection among people who inject drugs (PWID) in Tijuana, Mexico. Design and Methods Beginning in 2011, PWID aged ≥18 years who injected drugs within the last month were recruited into a prospective cohort. At baseline and semi-annually, PWID completed interviewer-administered surveys soliciting data on drug-injecting practices. Logistic regression was used to identify predictors of injecting in the neck as the most frequent injection site at a single visit. Results Of 380 PWID, 35.3% injected in the neck at least once in the past 6 months, among whom 71.6% reported it as their most common injection site, the most common injecting site after the arms (47%). Controlling for age, years injecting and injecting frequency, injecting heroin and methamphetamine two or more times per day and having sought injection assistance were associated with injecting in the neck [adjusted odds ratios (AOR): 2.12; 95% confidence intervals (CI): 1.27–3.53 and AOR: 2.65; 95% CI: 1.52–4.53 respectively]. Discussion and Conclusions Injecting in the neck was very common among PWID in Tijuana and was associated with polydrug use and seeking injection assistance. Tailoring harm reduction education interventions for individuals who provide injection assistance (‘hit doctors’) may allow for the dissemination of safe injecting knowledge to reduce injection-related morbidity and mortality. PMID:25867795

Monitoring of surface deformation in open pit mine using DInSAR time-series: a case study in the N5W iron mine (Carajás, Brazil) using TerraSAR-X data

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mura, José C.; Paradella, Waldir R.; Gama, Fabio F.; Santos, Athos R.; Galo, Mauricio; Camargo, Paulo O.; Silva, Arnaldo Q.; Silva, Guilherme G.

2014-10-01

We present an investigation of surface deformation using Differential SAR Interferometry (DInSAR) time-series carried out in an active open pit iron mine, the N5W, located in the Carajás Mineral Province (Brazilian Amazon region), using 33 TerraSAR-X (TSX-1) scenes. This mine has presented a historical of instability and surface monitoring measurements over sectors of the mine (pit walls) have been done based on ground based radar. Two complementary approaches were used: the standard DInSAR configuration, as an early warning of the slope instability conditions, and the DInSAR timeseries analysis. In order to decrease the topographic phase error a high resolution DEM was generated based on a stereo GeoEye-1 pair. Despite the fact that a DinSAR contains atmospheric and topographic phase artifacts and noise, it was possible to detect deformation in some interferometric pairs, covering pit benches, road ramps and waste piles. The timeseries analysis was performed using the 31 interferometric pairs, which were selected based on the highest mean coherence of a stack of 107 interferograms, presenting less phase unwrapping errors. The time-series deformation was retrieved by the Least-Squares (LS) solution using an extension of the Singular Value Decomposition (SVD), with a set of additional weighted constrain on the acceleration deformation. The atmospheric phase artifacts were filtered in the space-time domain and the DEM height errors were estimated based on the normal baseline diversity. The DInSAR time-series investigation showed good results for monitoring surface displacement in the N5W mine located in a tropical rainforest environment, providing very useful information about the ground movement for alarm, planning and risk assessment.

Influence of pre-injection control parameters on main-injection fuel quantity for an electronically controlled double-valve fuel injection system of diesel engine

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Song, Enzhe; Fan, Liyun; Chen, Chao; Dong, Quan; Ma, Xiuzhen; Bai, Yun

2013-09-01

A simulation model of an electronically controlled two solenoid valve fuel injection system for a diesel engine is established in the AMESim environment. The accuracy of the model is validated through comparison with experimental data. The influence of pre-injection control parameters on main-injection quantity under different control modes is analyzed. In the spill control valve mode, main-injection fuel quantity decreases gradually and then reaches a stable level because of the increase in multi-injection dwell time. In the needle control valve mode, main-injection fuel quantity increases with rising multi-injection dwell time; this effect becomes more obvious at high-speed revolutions and large main-injection pulse widths. Pre-injection pulse width has no obvious influence on main-injection quantity under the two control modes; the variation in main-injection quantity is in the range of 1 mm3.

RimabotulinumtoxinB Injection

MedlinePlus

... tightening of the neck muscles that may cause neck pain and abnormal head positions). RimabotulinumtoxinB injection is in ... cannot be substituted for another.RimabotulinumtoxinB injection controls ... longer before you feel the full benefit of rimabotulinumtoxinB injection.

Lacosamide Injection

MedlinePlus

Lacosamide injection is used in combination with other medications to control certain types of seizures in people who cannot take oral medications. Lacosamide injection is in a class of medications called ...

Nebulization of antimicrobial agents in mechanically ventilated adults in 2017: an international cross-sectional survey.

PubMed

Alves, Joana; Alp, Emine; Koulenti, Despoina; Zhang, Zhongheng; Ehrmann, Stephan; Blot, Stijn; Bassetti, Matteo; Conway-Morris, Andrew; Reina, Rosa; Teran, Enrique; Sole-Lleonart, Candela; Ruiz-Rodríguez, Maria; Rello, Jordi

2018-04-01

2017 ESCMID practice guidelines reported safety concerns and weak evidence of benefit supporting use of aerosolized antibiotics in mechanically ventilated patients. Our primary goal was to assess current patterns of aerosolized antibiotic prescription in mechanically ventilated patients. A sequential global survey was performed prior to the release of the ESCMID guidelines, from the 1st of February to the 30th of April 2017, using an electronic platform. Responses were analyzed comparing geographical regions. A total of 410 units responded, with 261 (177 from Europe) being eligible for the full survey. 26.8% of units reported not using aerosolized antibiotics. The two major indications amongst prescribing units were ventilator-associated pneumonia and ventilator-associated tracheobronchitis (74.3% and 49.4%, respectively). 63.6% of units indicated prescription solely in response to multi-drug resistant organisms. In comparison with a survey undertaken in 2014, there was a significant reduction in use of aerosolized antibiotics for prophylaxis (50.6% vs 7.7%, p < 0.05) and colonization (52.9% vs 25.3%, p < 0.05). The large majority of units (91.7%) reported only prescribing in patients with positive pulmonary cultures. Asia appeared to be an outlier, with 53.3% of units reporting empirical use. The most commonly used device was the jet nebulizer. The most commonly prescribed drugs were colistin methanesulfonate (57.6%), colistin base (41.9%) and amikacin (31.4%), although there was considerable heterogeneity across geographical areas. A significant gap exists between ESCMID clinical practice recommendations and the use of aerosolized antibiotics in clinical practice. Our findings indicate an urgent need for high-quality education to bring practice into line with evidence-based guidelines.

Colistimethate Injection

MedlinePlus

... is used to treat certain infections caused by bacteria. Colistimethate injection is in a class of medications called antibiotics. It works by killing bacteria.Antibiotics such as colistimethate injection will not work ...

Hydrocortisone Injection

MedlinePlus

Hydrocortisone injection is used to treat symptoms of low corticosteroid levels (lack of certain substances that are ... is also used to treat severe allergic reactions. Hydrocortisone injection is used in the management of multiple ...

Teduglutide Injection

MedlinePlus

... the medication should read the manufacturer's directions for mixing and injecting the medication before you use it ... Teduglutide must be used within 3 hours after mixing teduglutide powder with the diluent.You can inject ...

Doxycycline Injection

MedlinePlus

Doxycycline injection is used to treat or prevent bacterial infections, including pneumonia and other respiratory tract infections. ... certain skin, genital, intestine, and urinary system infections. Doxycycline injection may be used to treat or prevent ...

Dupilumab Injection

MedlinePlus

... injection is used to treat the symptoms of eczema (atopic dermatitis; a skin disease that causes the ... use other medications for their condition or whose eczema has not responded to other medications. Dupilumab injection ...

Naltrexone Injection

MedlinePlus

Naltrexone injection is used along with counseling and social support to help people who have stopped drinking ... injection is also used along with counseling and social support to help people who have stopped abusing ...

Doripenem Injection

MedlinePlus

... tract, kidney, and abdomen that are caused by bacteria. Doripenem injection is not approved by the Food ... medications called carbapenem antibiotics. It works by killing bacteria.Antibiotics such as doripenem injection will not work ...

Chloramphenicol Injection

MedlinePlus

... treat certain types of serious infections caused by bacteria when other antibiotics cannot be used. Chloramphenicol injection ... antibiotics. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria..Antibiotics such as chloramphenicol injection will not work ...

Cefoxitin Injection

MedlinePlus

... injection is used to treat infections caused by bacteria including pneumonia and other lower respiratory tract (lung) ... medications called cephamycin antibiotics. It works by killing bacteria.Antibiotics such as cefoxitin injection will not work ...

Tocilizumab Injection

MedlinePlus

... of age or older after receiving certain immunotherapy infusions. Tocilizumab injection is in a class of medications ... you miss an appointment to receive a tocilizumab infusion, call your doctor.If you forget to inject ...

Aripiprazole Injection

MedlinePlus

... a mental illness that causes disturbed or unusual thinking, loss of interest in life, and strong or ... aripiprazole injection and aripiprazole extended-release injection developed gambling problems or other intense urges or behaviors that ...

Mipomersen Injection

MedlinePlus

Mipomersen injection is used to decrease levels of cholesterol and other fatty substances in the blood in ... procedure that removes LDL from the blood), but mipomersen injection should not be used along with this ...

Paclitaxel Injection

MedlinePlus

... other medications. Paclitaxel injection manufactured with polyoxyethylated castor oil is used to treat ovarian cancer (cancer that ... and lung cancer. Paclitaxel injection with polyoxyethylated castor oil is also used to treat Kaposi's sarcoma (a ...

Epidural steroid injections: update on efficacy, safety, and newer medications for injection.

PubMed

Kozlov, N; Benzon, H T; Malik, K

2015-08-01

The best evidence for epidural injection appears to be in the setting of radicular pain with epidural steroid and non-steroid injections more efficacious than non-epidural injections. Studies showed the efficacy of non-particulate steroid to approach the efficacy of particulate steroid and very limited comparisons demonstrated no significant difference between epidural steroid and epidural non-steroid (local anesthetic) injection. Preliminary studies evaluating epidural injection of disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs such etanercept and tocilizumab showed conflicting results and had significant limitations. Randomized studies support better efficacy of transforaminal injection due to greater incidence of ventral epidural spread of injectate when compared to interlaminar injection. Thus, the transforaminal approach is recommended when unilateral radicular pain is limited to one nerve root. However, the transforaminal approach is associated with greater incidence of central nervous system injury, including paraplegia, attributed to embolization of the particulate steroid. Recent studies showed that non-particulate steroids potentially last as long as particulate steroids. Therefore non-particulate steroid should be used in initial transforaminal epidural injection. Future studies should look into the role of adjunct diagnostic aids, including digital subtraction angiography, in detecting intravascular injection and the ideal site of needle placement, whether it is the safe triangle or the triangle of Kambin. Finally, the role of epidural disease -modifying antirheumatic drugs in the management of back pain needs to be better elucidated.

Electrothermal vaporization of mineral acid solutions in inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry: comparison with sample nebulization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mora, Juan; Gras, Luis; van Veen, Eric H.; de Loos-Vollebregt, Margaretha T. C.

1999-06-01

The analytical behaviour of an electrothermal vaporization (ETV) device for the introduction of mineral acid solutions in inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) was evaluated. Water, nitric acid, hydrochloric acid, perchloric acid and sulphuric acid in concentrations within the 0.05-1.0 mol l-1 range were studied. For all the acids tested, increasing the acid concentration increases the ion signal and deteriorates the precision. The magnitude of the signal enhancement depends on the analyte and on the acid considered. Acid solutions give rise to ion signals that are between 2 and 10 times higher than those with water. Among the acids tested, sulphuric acid provides the highest signals. The addition of palladium reduces matrix effects due to the acids and increases the signal in ETV ICP-MS. In comparison with conventional sample nebulization (CS), the ETV sample introduction system provides higher sensitivities (between 2 and 20 times higher) at the same acid concentration. The magnitude of this improvement is similar to that obtained with a microwave desolvation system (MWDS). The ETV sample introduction system gives rise to the lowest background signals from matrix-induced species. Due to this fact, the limits of detection (LODs) obtained for the isotopes affected by any interference are lower for ETV sample introduction than those obtained with the CS and the MWDS. For the isotopes that do not suffer from matrix-induced spectral interferences, the ETV gives rise to LODs higher than those obtained with the CS. For these isotopes the lowest LODs are obtained with MWDS.

Pramlintide Injection

MedlinePlus

... eye problems. Using medication(s), making lifestyle changes (e.g., diet, exercise, quitting smoking), and regularly checking your ... inject pramlintide into your arm. Choose a different spot to inject pramlintide every day. Be sure that ...

Medroxyprogesterone Injection

MedlinePlus

... Medroxyprogesterone injection is a very effective method of birth control but does not prevent the spread of human ... you have been using a different method of birth control and are switching to medroxyprogesterone injection, your doctor ...

Triptorelin Injection

MedlinePlus

... used to treat the symptoms associated with advanced prostate cancer. Triptorelin injection (Triptodur) is used to treat central ... a medical office or clinic. When used for prostate cancer, an injection of 3.75 mg of triptorelin ( ...

Adalimumab Injection

MedlinePlus

... causes pain, swelling, and damage) including the following: rheumatoid arthritis (a condition in which the body attacks its ... If you are using adalimumab injection to treat rheumatoid arthritis, your doctor may tell you to inject the ...

Buprenorphine Injection

MedlinePlus

Buprenorphine extended-release injection is used to treat opioid dependence (addiction to opioid drugs, including heroin and narcotic painkillers) ... sublingual buprenorphine for at least 7 days. Buprenorphine extended-release injection is in a class of medications ...

Golimumab Injection

MedlinePlus

... body and causes pain, swelling, and damage) including: rheumatoid arthritis (condition in which the body attacks its own ... doctor.If golimumab injection is used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, it may also be injected intravenously (into a ...

Evolocumab Injection

MedlinePlus

... coronary artery bypass (CABG) surgery in people with cardiovascular disease. Evolocumab injection is also used along with diet ... evolocumab injection is used to treat HeFH or cardiovascular disease or to reduce the risk of a stroke, ...

Levoleucovorin Injection

MedlinePlus

... injection is used to prevent harmful effects of methotrexate (Rheumatrex, Trexall) when methotrexate is used to to treat certain types of ... people who have accidentally received an overdose of methotrexate or similar medications. Levoleucovorin injection is in a ...

Prevalence of injections and knowledge of safe injections among rural residents in Central China.

PubMed

Yan, Y W; Yan, J; Zhang, G P; Gao, Z L; Jian, H X

2007-08-01

Abuse of the injection services, namely unnecessary injections and unsafe injections, exists extensively in developing countries. Unsafe injection practices contribute to the transmission of blood-borne pathogens. The aims of this study were to survey the prevalence of injections and knowledge of injection safety among the rural residents in Jingzhou district, Hubei, China and to provide scientific data for developing a health educational programme. A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted in 12 villages, which were selected from the Jingzhou district by the random sampling method. 50 rural residents were interviewed per village using a questionnaire. Among the 595 residents studied, 192 had received at least one injection in the past three months, with an injection prevalence of 32.3 percent and an average of 0.93 injections. 90.3 percent of the rural residents knew that unsafe injections could transmit the following blood-borne pathogens: human immunodeficiency virus (74.4 percent), hepatitis B virus (55.8 percent) and hepatitis C virus (22.9 percent). Logistic regression analysis showed that the residents' age, educational level and residential area were important factors in influencing their knowledge about injection safety. The results indicated that the injection prevalence was high among rural residents in the study area, and their knowledge regarding injection safety should be further improved.

An Innovative Needle-free Injection System: Comparison to 1 ml Standard Subcutaneous Injection.

PubMed

Kojic, Nikola; Goyal, Pragun; Lou, Cheryl Hamer; Corwin, Michael J

2017-11-01

A needle-free delivery system may lead to improved satisfaction and compliance, as well as reduced anxiety among patients requiring frequent or ongoing injections. This report describes a first-in-man assessment comparing Portal Instruments' innovative needle-free injection system with subcutaneous injections using a 27G needle. Forty healthy volunteer participants each received a total of four injections of 1.0 mL sterile saline solution, two with a standard subcutaneous injection using a 27G needle, and two using the Portal injection system. Perception of pain was measured using a 100-mm visual analog scale (VAS). Injection site reactions were assessed at 2 min and at 20-30 min after each injection. Follow-up contact was made 24-48 h after the injections. Subject preference regarding injection type was also assessed. VAS pain scores at Portal injection sites met the criteria to be considered non-inferior to the pain reported at 27G needle injection sites (i.e., upper 95% confidence bound less than +5 mm). Based on a mixed effects model, at time 0, accounting for potential confounding variables, the adjusted difference in VAS scores indicated that Portal injections were 6.5 mm lower than the 27G needle injections (95% CI -10.5, -2.5). No clinically important adverse events were noted. Portal injections were preferred by 24 (60%) of the subjects (P = 0.0015). As an early step in the development of this new needle-free delivery system, the current study has shown that a 1.0-mL saline injection can be given with less pain reported than a standard subcutaneous injection using a 27G needle.

Injection-controlled laser resonator

DOEpatents

Chang, J.J.

1995-07-18

A new injection-controlled laser resonator incorporates self-filtering and self-imaging characteristics with an efficient injection scheme. A low-divergence laser signal is injected into the resonator, which enables the injection signal to be converted to the desired resonator modes before the main laser pulse starts. This injection technique and resonator design enable the laser cavity to improve the quality of the injection signal through self-filtering before the main laser pulse starts. The self-imaging property of the present resonator reduces the cavity induced diffraction effects and, in turn, improves the laser beam quality. 5 figs.

Injection-controlled laser resonator

DOEpatents

Chang, Jim J.

1995-07-18

A new injection-controlled laser resonator incorporates self-filtering and self-imaging characteristics with an efficient injection scheme. A low-divergence laser signal is injected into the resonator, which enables the injection signal to be converted to the desired resonator modes before the main laser pulse starts. This injection technique and resonator design enable the laser cavity to improve the quality of the injection signal through self-filtering before the main laser pulse starts. The self-imaging property of the present resonator reduces the cavity induced diffraction effects and, in turn, improves the laser beam quality.

Degarelix Injection

MedlinePlus

... injection is used to treat advanced prostate cancer (cancer that begins in the prostate [a male reproductive gland]). Degarelix injection is in a class of medications called gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) receptor antagonists. It works by decreasing the amount of ...

Indian Injection Technique Study: Injecting Complications, Education, and the Health Care Professional.

PubMed

Kalra, Sanjay; Mithal, Ambrish; Sahay, Rakesh; John, Mathew; Unnikrishnan, A G; Saboo, Banshi; Ghosh, Sujoy; Sanyal, Debmalya; Hirsch, Laurence J; Gupta, Vandita; Strauss, Kenneth W

2017-06-01

Using the Indian and rest of world (ROW) injection technique questionnaire (ITQ) data, we address key insulin injection complications. In 2015 we conducted an ITQ survey throughout India involving 1011 patients. Indian values were compared with those from 41 other countries participating in the ITQ, known here as ROW. More than a quarter of Indian insulin users described lesions consistent with lipohypertrophy (LH) at their injection sites and approximately 1 in 5 were found to have LH by the examining nurse (using visual inspection and palpation). Just over half of Indian injectors report having pain on injection. Of these, 4 out of 5 report having painful injections only several times a month or year (i.e., not with every injection). Doctors and diabetes educators in India (as opposed to nurses) have a larger role in teaching patients how to inject than they do in ROW. Despite this specialized approach, a very high percentage of patients report that they have not been trained (at least cannot remember being trained) in a wide range of essential injection topics. Only about 30% of Indian injectors get their sites checked at least annually, with nearly a third only having sites checked when they specifically complained and nearly 4 out of 10 never having had their sites checked. Indian HCPs can clearly do a better job covering all the vital topics essential to proper injection habits.

Ixekizumab Injection

MedlinePlus

... or runny nose redness or pain at the injection site abdominal pain diarrhea (with or without blood) weight loss Some side effects can be serious. If you experience any of these symptoms ... ixekizumab injection and call your doctor immediately or get emergency ...

Zidovudine Injection

MedlinePlus

... immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. Zidovudine is given to HIV-positive pregnant women to reduce the chance of passing the infection to the baby. Zidovudine injection is in a class of medications ... the amount of HIV in the blood. Although zidovudine injection does not ...

Sonographically guided deep plantar fascia injections: where does the injectate go?

PubMed

Maida, Eugene; Presley, James C; Murthy, Naveen; Pawlina, Wojciech; Smith, Jay

2013-08-01

To determine the distribution of sonographically guided deep plantar fascia injections in an unembalmed cadaveric model. A single experienced operator completed 10 sonographically guided deep plantar fascia injections in 10 unembalmed cadaveric specimens (5 right and 5 left) obtained from 6 donors (2 male and 4 female) aged 49 to 95 years (mean, 77.5 years) with a mean body mass index of 23.2 kg/m(2) (range, 18.4-26.3 kg/m(2)). A 12-3-MHz linear array transducer was used to direct a 22-gauge, 38-mm stainless steel needle deep to the plantar fascia at the anterior aspect of the calcaneus using an in-plane, medial-to-lateral approach. In each case, 1.5 mL of 50% diluted colored latex was injected deep to the plantar fascia. After a minimum of 72 hours, study coinvestigators dissected each specimen to assess injectate placement. All 10 injections accurately placed latex adjacent to the deep side of the plantar fascia at the anterior calcaneus. However, the flexor digitorum brevis (FDB) origin from the plantar fascia variably limited direct latex contact with the plantar fascia, and small amounts of latex interdigitated with the FDB origin in 90% (9 of 10). In all 10 specimens, latex also covered the traversing first branch of the lateral plantar nerve (FBLPN, ie, Baxter nerve) between the FDB and quadratus plantae muscles. No latex was found in the plantar fat pad or plantar fascia in any specimen. Sonographically guided deep plantar fascia injections reliably deliver latex deep to the plantar fascia while avoiding intrafascial injection. However, the extent of direct plantar fascia contact is variable due to the intervening FDB. On the contrary, the traversing FBLPN is reliably covered by the injection. Deep plantar fascia injections may have a role in the management of refractory plantar fasciitis, particularly following failed superficial perifascial or intrafascial injections, in cases of preferential deep plantar fascia involvement, or when entrapment

The use of the DInSAR method in the monitoring of road damage caused by mining activities

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Murdzek, Radosław; Malik, Hubert; Leśniak, Andrzej

2018-04-01

This paper reviews existing remote sensing methods of road damage detection and demonstrates the possibility of using DInSAR (Differential Interferometry SAR) method to identify endangered road sections. In this study two radar images collected by Sentinel-1 satellite have been used. Images were acquired with 24 days interval in 2015. The analysis allowed to estimate the scale of the post-mining deformation that occurred in Upper Silesia and to indicate areas where road infrastructure is particularly vulnerable to damage.

Plasma Torch Development Activities at Archimedes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Davis Lee, W.; Agnew, Steve; Chamberlin, Fred; Hilsabeck, Terry; Meekins, Mike; Plaisted, Ryan; Putvinski, Sergei; Umstadter, Karl; Yung, Shui

2004-11-01

The Archimedes Demonstration Unit (ADU) is a large scale implementation (L ≃ 4.0 m, a ≃ 0.37 m) of the plasma mass filter. The filter concept uses perpendicular \\overrightarrowE and \\overrightarrowB fields to separate material by atomic mass at high throughputs, with applications to nuclear waste remediation. Fueling the filter plasma with molten waste is one of the fundamental challenges of the ADU program, and this has been achieved using an inductively coupled plasma torch. Experiments have been performed with molten NaOH, a primary constituent of the waste to be treated. The melt is pumped to the bottom of the torch and nebulized using a 20 kHz sonic source. The nebulized NaOH mist is then evaporated by the torch and injected into the central region of the ADU. Vapor jet characteristics and ionization rates have been measured. The experimental setup and data will be presented.

El nuevo panorama de la Dinámica Galáctica

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pivovaroff, Michael James

En general, la tendencia imperante en Dinámica Galáctica ha sido considerar que los movimientos estelares son básicamente regulares y que el caos no tiene mayor relevancia en los sistemas estelares. Sin embargo, en el último lustro se vienen acumulando pruebas de la importancia del movimiento caótico en ciertos sistemas estelares que existen en la naturaleza. Por una parte, sobre todo el grupo de David Merritt, lo ha mostrado en los casos de galaxias elípticas con concentraciones centrales de materia; por otra parte, en nuestro propio grupo, lo hemos mostrado para el caso de los satélites galácticos. Las consecuencias de estos hallazgos son tanto de tipo técnico, por la necesidad de construir modelos que contengan órbitas caóticas, como astrofísico, por los efectos del caos sobre la estacionariedad y evolución de los sistemas estelares en los que se presenta.

Injectable Drug Eluting Elastomeric Polymer: A Novel Submucosal Injection Material

PubMed Central

Tran, Richard T.; Palmer, Michael; Tang, Shou-Jiang; Abell, Thomas L.; Yang, Jian

2011-01-01

Background Biodegradable hydrogels can deliver therapeutic payloads with great potentials in endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) and endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) to yield improvements in efficacy and foster mucosal regeneration. Objective To assess the efficacy of an injectable drug eluting elastomeric polymer (iDEEP) as a submucosal injection material. Design Comparative study among 3 different solutions using material characterization tests, ex vivo and in vivo porcine models. Setting Academic hospital. Interventions 30 gastric submucosal cushions were achieved with saline (0.9%), sodium hyaluronate (0.4%), and iDEEP (n = 10) in ex vivo porcine stomachs. Four porcine gastric submucosal cushions were then performed in vivo using iDEEP. Main outcome measurements Maximum injection pressure, Rebamipide release rate, submucosal elevation duration, and assessment of in vivo efficacy by en bloc resection. Results No significant difference in injection pressures between iDEEP (28.9 ± 0.3 PSI) and sodium hyaluronate (29.5 ± 0.4 PSI, P > .05) was observed. iDEEP gels displayed a controlled release of Rebamipide up to 2 weeks in vitro. The elevation height of iDEEP (5.7 ± 0.5 mm) was higher than saline (2.8 ± 0.2 mm, P < .01) and SH (4.2 ± 0.2 mm, P < .05). All EMR procedures were successfully performed after injection of iDEEP, and a large gel cushion was noted after the resection procedure. Limitations Benchtop, ex vivo, and non-survival pig study. Conclusions A novel injection solution was evaluated for endoscopic resection. These results suggest that iDEEP may provide a significant step towards the realization of an ideal EMR and ESD injection material. PMID:22301346

The longitudinal association between homelessness, injection drug use, and injection-related risk behavior among persons with a history of injection drug use in Baltimore, MD.

PubMed

Linton, Sabriya L; Celentano, David D; Kirk, Gregory D; Mehta, Shruti H

2013-10-01

Few studies have assessed the temporal association between homelessness and injection drug use, and injection-related risk behavior. Among a cohort of 1405 current and former injection drug users in follow-up from 2005 to 2009, we used random intercept models to assess the temporal association between homelessness and subsequent injection drug use, and to determine whether the association between homelessness and sustained injection drug use among active injectors differed from the association between homelessness and relapse among those who stopped injecting. We also assessed the association between homelessness and subsequent injection-related risk behavior among participants who injected drugs consecutively across two visits. Homelessness was categorized by duration: none, <1 month, and ≥1 month. Homelessness was reported on at least one occasion by 532 (38%) participants. The relationship between homelessness and subsequent injection drug use was different for active injectors and those who stopped injecting. Among those who stopped injecting, homelessness was associated with relapse [<1 month: AOR=1.67, 95% CI (1.01, 2.74); ≥1 month: AOR=1.34 95% CI (0.77, 2.33)]. Among active injectors, homelessness was not associated with sustained injection drug use [<1 month: AOR=1.03, 95% CI (0.71, 1.49); ≥1 month: AOR=0.81 95% CI (0.56, 1.17)]. Among those injecting drugs across two consecutive visits, homelessness ≥1 month was associated with subsequent injection-related risk behavior [AOR=1.61, 95% CI (1.06, 2.45)]. Homelessness appears to be associated with relapse and injection-related risk behavior. Strengthening policies and interventions that prevent homelessness may reduce injection drug use and injection-related risk behaviors. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Experiment Research of Microbial Flooding Injected Capacity and Injected Volume

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shi, Fang; Zhao, Yang; Tang, Qinghua; Xie, Ximing

2018-01-01

Strains of microbial enhanced oil recovery technology is the use of crude oil directly in growth and the same time the metabolites of itself, so as to enhance oil recovery. Experimental study on paper through a number of data analysis. The growth and metabolism of three kinds of oil producing bacteria in the core are determined, and the corresponding growth curve is obtained. The parameter sensitivity analysis of the microorganism flooding process by homogeneous core is studied, and the influence of injection capacity and injection volume on the oil displacement effect is studied. The same permeability, water, temperature and other conditions, microbial injection pressure has a certain degree of increase than water flooding. Injection volume depends on the actual input-output ratio, quantity is 0.3PV is more reasonable.

Relationship Between the Provision of Injection Services in Ambulatory Physician Offices and Prescribing Injectable Medicines.

PubMed

Yousefi, Naeimeh; Rashidian, Arash; Soleymani, Fatemeh; Kebriaeezade, Abbas

2017-01-01

Overuse of injections is a common problem in many low-income and middle income countries. While cultural factors and attitudes of both physicians and patients are important factors, physicians› financial intensives may play an important role in overprescribing of injections. This study was designed to assess the effects of providing injection- services in physicians› ambulatory offices on prescribing injectable medicines. This cross-sectional study was conducted in Tehran in 2012 -2013and included a random sample of general physicians, pediatricians and infectious disease specialists. We collected data on the provision of injection services in or in proximity of physician offices, and obtained data from physicians› prescriptions in the previous three-month period. We analyzed the data using ANOVA, Student›s t-test and linear regression methods. We obtained complete data from 465 of 600 sampled physicians. Overall 41.9% of prescriptions contained injectable medicines. 75% of physicians offered injection services in their offices. Male physicians and general physicians were more likely to offer the services, and more likely to prescribe injectables. We observed a clear linear relationship between the injection service working hours and the proportion of prescriptions containing injectables (p-value<0.001). Providing injection service in the office was directly linked with the proportion of prescriptions containing injectables. While provision of injection services may provide a direct financial benefit to physicians, it is unlikely to be able to substantially reduce injectable medicines› prescription without addressing the issue.

Compressed air injection technique to standardize block injection pressures : [La technique d'injection d'air comprimé pour normaliser les pressions d'injection d'un blocage nerveux].

PubMed

Tsui, Ban C H; Li, Lisa X Y; Pillay, Jennifer J

2006-11-01

Presently, no standardized technique exists to monitor injection pressures during peripheral nerve blocks. Our objective was to determine if a compressed air injection technique, using an in vitro model based on Boyle's law and typical regional anesthesia equipment, could consistently maintain injection pressures below a 1293 mmHg level associated with clinically significant nerve injury. Injection pressures for 20 and 30 mL syringes with various needle sizes ( 18G, 20G, 21 G, 22G, and 24G) were measured in a closed system. A set volume of air was aspirated into a saline-filled syringe and then compressed and maintained at various percentages while pressure was measured. The needle was inserted into the injection port of a pressure sensor, which had attached extension tubing with an injection plug clamped "off". Using linear regression with all data points, the pressure value and 99% confidence interval (CI) at 50% air compression was estimated. The linearity of Boyle's law was demonstrated with a high correlation, r = 0.99, and a slope of 0.984 (99% CI: 0.967-1.001). The net pressure generated at 50% compression was estimated as 744.8 mmHg, with the 99% CI between 729.6 and 760.0 mmHg. The various syringe/needle combinations had similar results. By creating and maintaining syringe air compression at 50% or less, injection pressures will be substantially below the 1293 mmHg threshold considered to be an associated risk factor for clinically significant nerve injury. This technique may allow simple, real-time and objective monitoring during local anesthetic injections while inherently reducing injection speed. Présentement, aucune technique normalisée ne permet de vérifier les pressions d'injection pendant les blocages nerveux périphériques. Nous voulions vérifier si une technique d'injection d'air comprimé, utilisant un modèle in vitro fondé sur la loi de Boyle et du matériel propre à l'anesthésie régionale, pouvait maintenir avec régularité les

Calculation method of water injection forward modeling and inversion process in oilfield water injection network

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Long; Liu, Wei

2018-04-01

A forward modeling and inversion algorithm is adopted in order to determine the water injection plan in the oilfield water injection network. The main idea of the algorithm is shown as follows: firstly, the oilfield water injection network is inversely calculated. The pumping station demand flow is calculated. Then, forward modeling calculation is carried out for judging whether all water injection wells meet the requirements of injection allocation or not. If all water injection wells meet the requirements of injection allocation, calculation is stopped, otherwise the demand injection allocation flow rate of certain step size is reduced aiming at water injection wells which do not meet requirements, and next iterative operation is started. It is not necessary to list the algorithm into water injection network system algorithm, which can be realized easily. Iterative method is used, which is suitable for computer programming. Experimental result shows that the algorithm is fast and accurate.

Advanced Differential Radar Interferometry (A-DInSAR) as integrative tool for a structural geological analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Crippa, B.; Calcagni, L.; Rossi, G.; Sternai, P.

2009-04-01

Advanced Differential SAR interferometry (A-DInSAR) is a technique monitoring large-coverage surface deformations using a stack of interferograms generated from several complex SLC SAR images, acquired over the same target area at different times. In this work are described the results of a procedure to calculate terrain motion velocity on highly correlated pixels (E. Biescas, M. Crosetto, M. Agudo, O. Monserrat e B. Crippa: Two Radar Interferometric Approaches to Monitor Slow and Fast Land Deformation, 2007) in two area Gemona - Friuli, Northern Italy, Pollino - Calabria, Southern Italy, and, furthermore, are presented some consideration, based on successful examples of the present analysis. The choice of these pixels whose displacement velocity is calculated depends on the dispersion index value (DA) or using coherence values along the stack interferograms. A-DInSAR technique allows to obtain highly reliable velocity values of the vertical displacement. These values concern the movement of minimum surfaces of about 80m2 at the maximum resolution and the minimum velocity that can be recognized is of the order of mm/y. Because of the high versatility of the technology, because of the large dimensions of the area that can be analyzed (of about 10000Km2) and because of the high precision and reliability of the results obtained, we think it is possible to exploit radar interferometry to obtain some important information about the structural context of the studied area, otherwise very difficult to recognize. Therefore we propose radar interferometry as a valid investigation tool whose results must be considered as an important integration of the data collected in fieldworks.

Relationships between Induced Seismicity and Fluid Injection: Development of Strategies to Manage Injection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Eichhubl, Peter; Frohlich, Cliff; Gale, Julia; Olson, Jon; Fan, Zhiqiang; Gono, Valerie

2014-05-01

Induced seismicity during or following the subsurface injection of waste fluids such as well stimulation flow back and production fluids has recently received heightened public and industry attention. It is understood that induced seismicity occurs by reactivation of existing faults that are generally present in the injection intervals. We seek to address the question why fluid injection triggers earthquakes in some areas and not in others, with the aim toward improved injection methods that optimize injection volume and cost while avoiding induced seismicity. A GIS database has been built of natural and induced earthquakes in four hydrocarbon-producing basins: the Fort Worth Basin, South Texas, East Texas/Louisiana, and the Williston Basin. These areas are associated with disposal from the Barnett, Eagle Ford, Bakken, and Haynesville Shales respectively. In each region we analyzed data that were been collected using temporary seismographs of the National Science Foundation's USArray Transportable Array. Injection well locations, formations, histories, and volumes are also mapped using public and licensed datasets. Faults are mapped at a range of scales for selected areas that show different levels of seismic activity, and scaling relationships used to extrapolate between the seismic and wellbore scale. Reactivation potential of these faults is assessed using fault occurrence, and in-situ stress conditions, identifying areas of high and low fault reactivation potential. A correlation analysis between fault reactivation potential, induced seismicity, and fluid injection will use spatial statistics to quantify the probability of seismic fault reactivation for a given injection pressure in the studied reservoirs. The limiting conditions inducing fault reactivation will be compared to actual injection parameters (volume, rate, injection duration and frequency) where available. The objective of this project is a statistical reservoir- to basin-scale assessment of fault

Strategies for safe injections.

PubMed Central

Battersby, A.; Feilden, R.; Stoeckel, P.; Da Silva, A.; Nelson, C.; Bass, A.

1999-01-01

In 1998, faced with growing international concern, WHO set out an approach for achieving injection safety that encompassed all elements from patients' expectations and doctors' prescribing habits to waste disposal. This article follows that lead and describes the implications of the approach for two injection technologies: sterilizable and disposable. It argues that focusing on any single technology diverts attention from the more fundamental need for health services to develop their own comprehensive strategies for safe injections. National health authorities will only be able to ensure that injections are administered safely if they take an approach that encompasses the whole system, and choose injection technologies that fit their circumstances. PMID:10680247

Distribution and regularity of injection from a multicylinder fuel-injection pump

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rothrock, A M; Marsh, E T

1936-01-01

This report presents the results of performance test conducted on a six-cylinder commercial fuel-injection pump that was adjusted to give uniform fuel distribution among the cylinders at a throttle setting of 0.00038 pound per injection and a pump speed of 750 revolutions per minute. The throttle setting and pump speed were then varied through the operating range to determine the uniformity of distribution and regularity of injection.

Penicillin G Procaine Injection

MedlinePlus

Penicillin G procaine injection is used to treat certain infections caused by bacteria. Penicillin G procaine injection should not be used to ... early in the treatment of certain serious infections. Penicillin G procaine injection is in a class of ...

Ground deformation monitoring using small baseline DInSAR technique: A case study in Taiyuan City from 2003 to 2009

USGS Publications Warehouse

Wu, H.-A.; Zhang, Y.-H.; Chen, X.-Y.; Lu, T.; Du, J.; Sun, Z.-H.; Sun, G.-T.

2011-01-01

DInSAR technique based on time series of SAR images has been very popular to monitor ground stow deformation in recent years such as permanent scatterers (PS) method small baseline subsets (SBAS) method and coherent targets (CT) method. By taking advantage of PS method and CT method in this paper small baseline DTnSAR technique is used to investigate the ground deformation of Taiyuan City Shanxi Province from 2003 to 2009 by using 23 ENVISAT ASAR images. The experiment results demonstrate that: (1) during this period four significant subsidence centers have been developed in Taiyuan namely Xiayuan Wujiabu Xiaodian Sunjiazhai. The largest subsidence center is Sunjiazhai with an average subsidence rate of -77. 28 mm/a; (2) The subsidence of the old center Wanbolin has sHowed down. And the subsidence in the northern region has stopped and some areas even rebounded. (3) The change of subsidence centers indicates that the control measures of "closing wells and reducing exploitation" taken by the Taiyuan government has achieved initial effects. (4) The experiment results have been validated with leveling data and the acouracy is 2. 90 mm which shows that the small baseline DInSAR technique can be used to monitor urban ground deformation.

Supersonic Pulsed Injection

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cutler, A. D.; Harding, G. C.; Diskin, G. S.

2001-01-01

An injector has been developed to provide high-speed high-frequency (order 10 kHz) pulsed a supersonic crossflow. The injector nozzle is formed between the fixed internal surface of the nozzle and a freely rotating three- or four-sided wheel embedded within the device. Flow-induced rotation of the wheel causes the nozzle throat to open and close at a frequency proportional to the speed of sound of the injected gas. Measurements of frequency and mass flow rate as a function of supply pressure are discussed for various injector designs. Preliminary results are presented for wall-normal injection of helium into a Mach-2 ducted airflow. The data include schlieren images in the injectant plume in a plane normal to the flow, downstream of injection.

Calcitonin Salmon Injection

MedlinePlus

Calcitonin salmon injection is used to treat osteoporosis in postmenopausal women. Osteoporosis is a disease that causes bones to weaken and break more easily. Calcitonin salmon injection is also used to ...

Dependence of injection locking of a TEA CO2 laser on intensity of injected radiation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Oppenheim, U. P.; Menzies, R. T.; Kavaya, M. J.

1982-01-01

The results of an experimental study to determine the minimum required injected power to control the output frequency of a TEA CO2 laser are reported. A CW CO2 waveguide laser was used as the injection oscillator. Both the power and the frequency of the injected radiation were varied, while the TEA resonator cavity length was adjusted to match the frequency of the injected signal. Single-longitudinal mode (SLM) TEA laser radiation was produced for injected power levels which are several orders of magnitude below those previously reported. The ratio of SLM output power to injection power exceeded 10 to the 12th at the lowest levels of injected intensity.

Unsteady boundary-layer injection

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Telionis, D. P.; Jones, G. S.

1981-01-01

The boundary-layer equations for two-dimensional incompressible flow are integrated numerically for the flow over a flat plate and a Howarth body. Injection is introduced either impulsively or periodically along a narrow strip. Results indicate that injection perpendicular to the wall is transmitted instantly across the boundary layer and has little effect on the velocity profile parallel to the wall. The effect is a little more noticeable for flows with adverse pressure gradients. Injection parallel to the wall results in fuller velocity profiles. Parallel and oscillatory injection appears to influence the mean. The amplitude of oscillation decreases with distance from the injection strip but further downstream it increases again in a manner reminiscent of an unstable process.

First injection of ketamine among young injection drug users (IDUs) in three U.S. cities

PubMed Central

Lankenau, Stephen E.; Sanders, Bill; Bloom, Jennifer Jackson; Hathazi, Dodi; Alarcon, Erica; Tortu, Stephanie; Clatts, Michael C.

2007-01-01

Ketamine, a dissociative anesthetic, has emerged as an increasingly common drug among subgroups of young injection drug users (IDUs) in cities across the United States. In-depth qualitative interviews were conducted with 213 young IDUs aged 16–28 years recruited in New York, New Orleans, and Los Angeles between 2004 and 2006. While some initiated injection drug use with ketamine, the drug was more frequently injected by IDUs with extensive polydrug using histories. IDUs initiating with ketamine commonly self-injected via an intramuscular mode of administration. The injection group provided crucial knowledge and material resources that enabled the injection event to occur, including ketamine, syringes, and injection skills. Injection paraphernalia was commonly shared during the first injection of ketamine, particularly vials of pharmaceutically-packaged liquid ketamine. Injection events infrequently occurred in a rave or club and more typically in a private home, which challenges ketamine’s designation as a ‘club’ drug. The first injection of ketamine was a noteworthy event since it introduced a novel drug or new mode of administration to be further explored by some, or exposed others to a drug to be avoided in the future. Risk reduction messages directed towards young IDUs should be expanded to include ketamine. PMID:16979848

MEDICAL INJECTION

NASA Image and Video Library

1963-06-10

S62-08371 (1962) --- The automatic medical injectors carried on the Mercury-Atlas 9 flight. The injectors provide the astronaut with injection tubes of Tigan, for preventing motion sickness and Demerol, for relieving pain. The tubes encased in the block are stowed in the astronauts survival kit. The single injection tubes are placed in a pocket of the astronauts spacesuit. Photo credit: NASA

78 FR 42776 - Underground Injection Control Program; Hazardous Waste Injection Restrictions; Petition for...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-07-17

... ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY [FRL9834-8] Underground Injection Control Program; Hazardous Waste Injection Restrictions; Petition for Exemption--Class I Hazardous Waste Injection; Blanchard Refining... migration petition reissuance. SUMMARY: Notice is hereby given that a reissuance of an exemption to the land...

Determination of uranium isotopic composition and 236U content of soil samples and hot particles using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Boulyga, S F; Becker, J S

2001-07-01

As a result of the accident at the Chernobyl nuclear power plant (NPP) the environment was contaminated with spent nuclear fuel. The 236U isotope was used in this study to monitor the spent uranium from nuclear fallout in soil samples collected in the vicinity of the Chernobyl NPP. Nuclear track radiography was applied for the identification and extraction of hot radioactive particles from soil samples. A rapid and sensitive analytical procedure was developed for uranium isotopic ratio measurement in environmental samples based on double-focusing inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (DF-ICP-MS) with a MicroMist nebulizer and a direct injection high-efficiency nebulizer (DIHEN). The performance of the DF-ICP-MS with a quartz DIHEN and plasma shielded torch was studied. Overall detection efficiencies of 4 x 10(-4) and 10(-3) counts per atom were achieved for 238U in DF-ICP-QMS with the MicroMist nebulizer and DIHEN, respectively. The rate of formation of uranium hydride ions UH+/U+ was 1.2 x 10(-4) and 1.4 x 10(-4), respectively. The precision of short-term measurements of uranium isotopic ratios (n = 5) in 1 microg L(-1) NBS U-020 standard solution was 0.11% (238U/235U) and 1.4% (236U/238U) using a MicroMist nebulizer and 0.25% (235U/238U) and 1.9% (236U/P38U) using a DIHEN. The isotopic composition of all investigated Chernobyl soil samples differed from those of natural uranium; i.e. in these samples the 236U/238U ratio ranged from 10(-5) to 10(-3). Results obtained with ICP-MS, alpha- and gamma-spectrometry showed differences in the migration properties of spent uranium, plutonium, and americium. The isotopic ratio of uranium was also measured in hot particles extracted from soil samples.

Using DInSAR as a tool to detect unstable terrain areas in an Andes region in Ecuador (South America)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mayorga Torres, Tannia

2014-05-01

Using DInSAR as a tool to detect unstable terrain areas in an Andes region in Ecuador (South America) 1. INTRODUCTION Monitoring landslides is a mandatory task in charge on the National Institute of Geological Research (INIGEMM) in Ecuador. It is a small country, supposedly will be faster doing monitoring, but what about its geographic characteristics? Lamentably, due to human and financial resources is not possible to put monitoring systems in unstable terrain areas. However, getting ALOS data to accessible price and using open source software to produce interferograms, could be a first step to know steep areas covered by vegetation and where mass movements are not visible. Under this statement, this study is part of the final research in a master study developed at CONAE during 2009-2011, with oral defense in August 2013. As a new technique used in Ecuador, the study processed radar data from ERS-1/2 and ALOS sensor PALSAR for getting differential interferograms, using ROI_PAC software. Stacking DInSAR is applied to get an average of displacement that indicates uplift and subsidence in the whole radar scene that covers two provinces in the Andes region. 2. PROBLEM Mass movements are present in the whole territory, independently of their magnitude and dynamic (slow or fast), they are a latent threat in winter season specially. There are registers of monitoring, such as two GPS's campaigns and artisanal extensometers, which are used to contrast with DInSAR results. However, the campaigns are shorter and extensometers are no trust on all. 3. METHODOLOGY Methodology has four phases of development: (1) Pre-processing of RAW data; (2) Processing of RAW data in ROI_PAC; (3) Post-processing for getting interferograms in units of cm per year; (4) Analysis of the results and comparison with ground truth. Sandwell & Price (1998) proposed Stacking technique to increase the fringes and decrease errors due to the atmosphere, to average several interferograms. L band penetrates

Slit injection device

DOEpatents

Alger, Terry W.; Schlitt, Leland G.; Bradley, Laird P.

1976-06-15

A laser cavity electron beam injection device provided with a single elongated slit window for passing a suitably shaped electron beam and means for varying the current density of the injected electron beam.

Adaptive engine injection for emissions reduction

DOEpatents

Reitz, Rolf D. : Sun, Yong

2008-12-16

NOx and soot emissions from internal combustion engines, and in particular compression ignition (diesel) engines, are reduced by varying fuel injection timing, fuel injection pressure, and injected fuel volume between low and greater engine loads. At low loads, fuel is injected during one or more low-pressure injections occurring at low injection pressures between the start of the intake stroke and approximately 40 degrees before top dead center during the compression stroke. At higher loads, similar injections are used early in each combustion cycle, in addition to later injections which preferably occur between about 90 degrees before top dead center during the compression stroke, and about 90 degrees after top dead center during the expansion stroke (and which most preferably begin at or closely adjacent the end of the compression stroke). These later injections have higher injection pressure, and also lower injected fuel volume, than the earlier injections.

Physics of the current injection process during localized helicity injection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hinson, Edward Thomas

An impedance model has been developed for the arc-plasma cathode electron current source used in localized helicity injection tokamak startup. According to this model, a potential double layer (DL) is established between the high-density arc plasma (narc ˜ 1021 m-3) in the electron source, and the less-dense external tokamak edge plasma (nedge ˜ 10 18 m-3) into which current is injected. The DL launches an electron beam at the applied voltage with cross-sectional area close to that of the source aperture: Ainj ≈ 2 cm 2. The injected current, Iinj, increases with applied voltage, Vinj, according to the standard DL scaling, Iinj ˜ V(3/2/ inj), until the more restrictive of two limits to beam density nb arises, producing Iinj ˜ V(1/2/inj), a scaling with beam drift velocity. For low external tokamak edge density nedge, space-charge neutralization of the intense electron beam restricts the injected beam density to nb ˜ nedge. At high Jinj and sufficient edge density, the injected current is limited by expansion of the DL sheath, which leads to nb ˜ narc. Measurements of narc, Iinj , nedge, Vinj, support these predicted scalings, and suggest narc as a viable control actuator for the source impedance. Magnetic probe signals ≈ 300 degrees toroidally from the injection location are consistent with expectations for a gyrating, coherent electron beam with a compact areal cross-section. Technological development of the source has allowed an extension of the favorable Iinj ˜ V(1/2/inj) to higher power without electrical breakdown.

Parametric study of injection rates with solenoid injectors in an injection quantity and rate measuring device

DOE PAGES

Busch, Stephen; Miles, Paul C.

2015-03-31

A Moehwald HDA (HDA is a German acronym: Hydraulischer Druckanstieg: hydraulic pressure increase) injection quantity and rate measuring unit is used to investigate injection rates obtained with a fast-acting, preproduction diesel solenoid injector. Experimental parametric variations are performed to determine their impact on measured injection rate traces. A pilot–main injection strategy is investigated for various dwell times; these preproduction injectors can operate with very short dwell times with distinct pilot and main injection events. Dwell influences the main injection rate shape. Furthermore, a comparison between a diesel-like fuel and a gasoline-like fuel shows that injection rates are comparable for amore » single injection but dramatically different for multiple injections with short dwells.« less

75 FR 60457 - Underground Injection Control Program Hazardous Waste Injection Restrictions; Petition for...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-09-30

... ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY [FRL-9208-4] Underground Injection Control Program Hazardous Waste Injection Restrictions; Petition for Exemption--Class I Hazardous Waste Injection Dow Chemical Company (DOW... Petition. SUMMARY: Notice is hereby given that an exemption to the land disposal restrictions under the...

Brentuximab Vedotin Injection

MedlinePlus

... with healthy bone marrow) or at least two treatment periods of chemotherapy. Brentuximab vedotin injection is also ... Hodgkin lymphoma) who did not respond to another treatment period of chemotherapy. Brentuximab vedotin injection is in ...

Parathyroid Hormone Injection

MedlinePlus

... injection is used along with calcium and vitamin D to treat low levels of calcium in the ... condition can be controlled by calcium and vitamin D alone. Parathyroid hormone injection is in a class ...

Antigen injection (image)

MedlinePlus

Leprosy is caused by the organism Mycobacterium leprae . The leprosy test involves injection of an antigen just under ... if your body has a current or recent leprosy infection. The injection site is labeled and examined ...

76 FR 55908 - Underground Injection Control Program; Hazardous Waste Injection Restrictions; Petition for...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-09-09

... of an exemption to the land disposal restrictions, under the 1984 Hazardous and Solid Waste... Waste Injection Restrictions; Petition for Exemption--Class I Hazardous Waste Injection; Great Lakes... from the injection zone for as long as the waste remains hazardous. This final decision allows the...

78 FR 23246 - Underground Injection Control Program; Hazardous Waste Injection Restrictions; Petition for...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-04-18

... exemption to the land disposal Restrictions, under the 1984 Hazardous and Solid Waste [[Page 23247... Waste Injection Restrictions; Petition for Exemption--Class I Hazardous Waste Injection; BASF... from the injection zone for as long as the waste remains hazardous. This final decision allows the...

77 FR 26755 - Underground Injection Control Program; Hazardous Waste Injection Restrictions; Petition for...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-05-07

... reissuance of an exemption to the land disposal Restrictions, under the 1984 Hazardous and Solid Waste... Waste Injection Restrictions; Petition for Exemption--Class I Hazardous Waste Injection; Diamond... from the injection zone for as long as the waste remains hazardous. This final decision allows the...

Corticotropin, Repository Injection

MedlinePlus

Corticotropin repository injection is used to treat the following conditions:infantile spasms (seizures that usually begin during the first ... of the arms, hands, feet, and legs). Corticotropin repository injection is in a class of medications called ...

Epoetin Alfa Injection

MedlinePlus

Epoetin alfa injection is used to treat anemia (a lower than normal number of red blood cells) in people ... stop working over a period of time). Epoetin alfa injection is also used to treat anemia caused ...

Darbepoetin Alfa Injection

MedlinePlus

Darbepoetin alfa injection is used to treat anemia (a lower than normal number of red blood cells) in people ... stop working over a period of time). Darbepoetin alfa injection is also used to treat anemia caused ...

Iron Dextran Injection

MedlinePlus

Iron dextran injection is used to treat iron-deficiency anemia (a lower than normal number of red blood cells ... treated with iron supplements taken by mouth. Iron dextran injection is in a class of medications called ...

Surgical versus injection treatment for injection-confirmed chronic sacroiliac joint pain

PubMed Central

Spiker, William Ryan; Lawrence, Brandon D.; Raich, Annie L.; Skelly, Andrea C.; Brodke, Darrel S.

2012-01-01

Study design: Systematic review. Study rationale: Chronic sacroiliac joint pain (CSJP) is a common clinical entity with highly controversial treatment options. A recent systematic review compared surgery with denervation, but the current systematic review compares outcomes of surgical intervention with therapeutic injection for the treatment of CSJP and serves as the next step for evaluating current evidence on the comparative effectiveness of treatments for non-traumatic sacroiliac joint pain. Objective or clinical question: In adult patients with injection-confirmed CSJP, does surgical treatment lead to better outcomes and fewer complications than injection therapy? Methods: A systematic review of the English-language literature was undertaken for articles published between 1970 and June 2012. Electronic databases and reference lists of key articles were searched to identify studies evaluating surgery or injection treatment for injection-confirmed CSJP. Studies involving traumatic onset or non-injection–confirmed CSJP were excluded. Two independent reviewers assessed the level of evidence quality using the grading of recommendations assessment, development and evaluation (GRADE) system, and disagreements were resolved by consensus. Results: We identified twelve articles (seven surgical and five injection treatment) meeting our inclusion criteria. Regardless of the type of treatment, most studies reported over 40% improvement in pain as measured by Visual Analog Scale or Numeric rating Scale score. Regardless of the type of treatment, most studies reported over 20% improvement in functionality. Most complications were reported in the surgical studies. Conclusion: Surgical fusion and therapeutic injections can likely provide pain relief, improve quality of life, and improve work status. The comparative effectiveness of these interventions cannot be evaluated with the current literature. PMID:23526911

Repeated onabotulinumtoxin-a injections provide better results than single injection in treatment of painful bladder syndrome.

PubMed

Kuo, Hann-Chorng

2013-01-01

Onabotulinumtoxin-A (BoNT-A) is effective for the treatment of interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome (IC/PBS). However, long-term follow-up does not show successful outcome after a single injection. To evaluate the efficacy and safety of repeated intravesical BoNT-A injections for treatment of IC/PBS and compare the success rates among patient groups receiving different injection numbers. Prospective interventional study. Tertiary medical center. Intravesical injection of 100 U of BoNT-A was performed in 81 patients every 6 months for up to 4 times or until patients' symptoms significantly improved. Patients who received a single injection served as active controls. Measured parameters included O'Leary-Sant symptom indexes (ICSI) and problem indexes (ICPI), visual analogue score (VAS) for pain, voiding diary variables, urodynamic parameters, maximal bladder capacity under anesthesia, glomerulation grade, and global response assessment. Multiple measurements and Kaplan-Meier analysis were used for comparison of consecutive data and success rates among groups. Among 81 patients, 20 received single injections, 19 received 2 injections, 12 received 3 injections, and 30 received 4 injections. The mean (± standard deviation) of ICSI, ICPI, total scores, VAS, functional bladder capacity, and daytime frequency all showed significant improvement after repeated BoNT-A treatment with different injections. Significantly better success rates were noted in patients who received 4 repeated injections (P = 0.0242) and 3 injections (P = 0.050), compared to those who received a single injection. However, there was no significant difference of long-term success rates among patients who received 2, 3, and 4 injections. Lack of placebo control group is the main limitation. Repeated intravesical BoNT-A injections were safe and effective for pain relief and they increased bladder capacity and provided a better long-term success rate than a single injection did for treatment of

Transitions from injecting to non-injecting drug use: potential protection against HCV infection

PubMed Central

Des Jarlais, Don C.; McKnight, Courtney; Arasteh, Kamyar; Feelemyer, Jonathan; Perlman, David C.; Hagan, Holly; Cooper, Hannah L. F.

2013-01-01

Transitions from injecting to non-injecting drug use have been reported from many different areas, particularly in areas with large human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) epidemics. The extent to which such transitions actually protect against HIV and HCV has not been determined. A cross-sectional survey with HIV and hepatitis C (HCV) testing was conducted with 322 former injectors (persons who had injected illicit drugs but permanently transitioned to non-injecting use) and 801 current injectors recruited in New York City between 2007 and 2012. There were no differences in HIV prevalence, while HCV prevalence was significantly lower among former injectors compared to current injectors. Years injecting functioned as a mediating variable linking former injector status to lower HCV prevalence. Transitions have continued well beyond the reduction in the threat of AIDS to injectors in the city. New interventions to support transitions to non-injecting drug use should be developed and supported by both drug treatment and syringe exchange programs. PMID:24161262

Development of SnS (FTO/CdS/SnS) thin films by nebulizer spray pyrolysis (NSP) for solar cell applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Arulanantham, A. M. S.; Valanarasu, S.; Jeyadheepan, K.; Ganesh, V.; Shkir, Mohd

2018-01-01

Herein we report a well-organized analysis on various key-properties of SnS thin films for solar cell fabricated by nebulizer spray pyrolysis technique. X-ray diffraction study reveals the polycrystalline nature of deposited films with orthorhombic crystal structure. The crystallite size was calculated and observed to be in the range of 8-28 nm with increasing molarity of precursor solution. The stoichiometry composition of SnS was confirmed by EDX study. SEM/AFM studies divulge the well-covered deposited surface with spherical grains and the size of grains is increasing with concentration and so the roughness. A remarkable decrease in band gap from 2.6 eV to 1.6 eV was noticed by raising the molar concentration from 0.025 M up to 0.075 M. A single strong emission peak at about 825 nm is observed in PL spectra with enhanced intensity which may be attributed to near band edge emission. From the Hall effect measurement, it was found that the SnS thin film exhibits p-type conductivity. The calculated values of resistivity and carrier concentration are 0.729 Ω cm and 3.67 × 1018/cm3 respectively. Furthermore, to study the photovoltaic properties of SnS thin films a heterojunction solar cell, FTO/n-CdS/p-SnS was produced and the conversion efficiency was recorded about 0.01%.

A Kinematic Survey in the Perseus Molecular Cloud: Results from the APOGEE Infrared Survey of Young Nebulous Clusters (IN-SYNC)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Covey, Kevin R.; Cottaar, M.; Foster, J. B.; Nidever, D. L.; Meyer, M.; Tan, J.; Da Rio, N.; Flaherty, K. M.; Stassun, K.; Frinchaboy, P. M.; Majewski, S.; APOGEE IN-SYNC Team

2014-01-01

Demographic studies of stellar clusters indicate that relatively few persist as bound structures for 100 Myrs or longer. If cluster dispersal is a 'violent' process, it could strongly influence the formation and early evolution of stellar binaries and planetary systems. Unfortunately, measuring the dynamical state of 'typical' (i.e., ~300-1000 member) young star clusters has been difficult, particularly for clusters still embedded within their parental molecular cloud. The near-infrared spectrograph for the Apache Point Observatory Galactic Evolution Experiment (APOGEE), which can measure precise radial velocities for 230 cluster stars simultaneously, is uniquely suited to diagnosing the dynamics of Galactic star formation regions. We give an overview of the INfrared Survey of Young Nebulous Clusters (IN-SYNC), an APOGEE ancillary science program that is carrying out a comparative study of young clusters in the Perseus molecular cloud: NGC 1333, a heavily embedded cluster, and IC 348, which has begun to disperse its surrounding molecular gas. These observations appear to rule out a significantly super-virial velocity dispersion in IC 348, contrary to predictions of models where a cluster's dynamics is strongly influenced by the dispersal of its primordial gas. We also summarize the properties of two newly identified spectroscopic binaries; binary systems such as these play a key role in the dynamical evolution of young clusters, and introduce velocity offsets that must be accounted for in measuring cluster velocity dispersions.

Methodology for the Randomised Injecting Opioid Treatment Trial (RIOTT): evaluating injectable methadone and injectable heroin treatment versus optimised oral methadone treatment in the UK

PubMed Central

Lintzeris, Nicholas; Strang, John; Metrebian, Nicola; Byford, Sarah; Hallam, Christopher; Lee, Sally; Zador, Deborah

2006-01-01

Whilst unsupervised injectable methadone and diamorphine treatment has been part of the British treatment system for decades, the numbers receiving injectable opioid treatment (IOT) has been steadily diminishing in recent years. In contrast, there has been a recent expansion of supervised injectable diamorphine programs under trial conditions in a number of European and North American cities, although the evidence regarding the safety, efficacy and cost effectiveness of this treatment approach remains equivocal. Recent British clinical guidance indicates that IOT should be a second-line treatment for those patients in high-quality oral methadone treatment who continue to regularly inject heroin, and that treatment be initiated in newly-developed supervised injecting clinics. The Randomised Injectable Opioid Treatment Trial (RIOTT) is a multisite, prospective open-label randomised controlled trial (RCT) examining the role of treatment with injected opioids (methadone and heroin) for the management of heroin dependence in patients not responding to conventional substitution treatment. Specifically, the study examines whether efforts should be made to optimise methadone treatment for such patients (e.g. regular attendance, supervised dosing, high oral doses, access to psychosocial services), or whether such patients should be treated with injected methadone or heroin. Eligible patients (in oral substitution treatment and injecting illicit heroin on a regular basis) are randomised to one of three conditions: (1) optimized oral methadone treatment (Control group); (2) injected methadone treatment; or (3) injected heroin treatment (with access to oral methadone doses). Subjects are followed up for 6-months, with between-group comparisons on an intention-to-treat basis across a range of outcome measures. The primary outcome is the proportion of patients who discontinue regular illicit heroin use (operationalised as providing >50% urine drug screens negative for markers of

Syringe injectable electronics

PubMed Central

Hong, Guosong; Zhou, Tao; Jin, Lihua; Duvvuri, Madhavi; Jiang, Zhe; Kruskal, Peter; Xie, Chong; Suo, Zhigang; Fang, Ying; Lieber, Charles M.

2015-01-01

Seamless and minimally-invasive three-dimensional (3D) interpenetration of electronics within artificial or natural structures could allow for continuous monitoring and manipulation of their properties. Flexible electronics provide a means for conforming electronics to non-planar surfaces, yet targeted delivery of flexible electronics to internal regions remains difficult. Here, we overcome this challenge by demonstrating syringe injection and subsequent unfolding of submicrometer-thick, centimeter-scale macroporous mesh electronics through needles with a diameter as small as 100 micrometers. Our results show that electronic components can be injected into man-made and biological cavities, as well as dense gels and tissue, with > 90% device yield. We demonstrate several applications of syringe injectable electronics as a general approach for interpenetrating flexible electronics with 3D structures, including (i) monitoring of internal mechanical strains in polymer cavities, (ii) tight integration and low chronic immunoreactivity with several distinct regions of the brain, and (iii) in vivo multiplexed neural recording. Moreover, syringe injection enables delivery of flexible electronics through a rigid shell, delivery of large volume flexible electronics that can fill internal cavities and co-injection of electronics with other materials into host structures, opening up unique applications for flexible electronics. PMID:26053995

Endoscopic injection therapy.

PubMed

Kim, Sang Woon; Lee, Yong Seung; Han, Sang Won

2017-06-01

Since the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved dextranomer/hyaluronic acid copolymer (Deflux) for the treatment of vesicoureteral reflux, endoscopic injection therapy using Deflux has become a popular alternative to open surgery and continuous antibiotic prophylaxis. Endoscopic correction with Deflux is minimally invasive, well tolerated, and provides cure rates approaching those of open surgery (i.e., approximately 80% in several studies). However, in recent years a less stringent approach to evaluating urinary tract infections (UTIs) and concerns about long-term efficacy and complications associated with endoscopic injection have limited the use of this therapy. In addition, there is little evidence supporting the efficacy of endoscopic injection therapy in preventing UTIs and vesicoureteral reflux-related renal scarring. In this report, we reviewed the current literature regarding endoscopic injection therapy and provided an updated overview of this topic.

Extraforaminal needle tip position reduces risk of intravascular injection in CT-fluoroscopic lumbar transforaminal epidural steroid injections

PubMed Central

Yu, Robinson K.; Ghodadra, Anish; Agarwal, Vikas

2016-01-01

Background Lumbar transforaminal epidural steroid injection is a common and effective tool for managing lumbar radicular pain, although accidental intravascular injection can rarely result in paralysis. The purpose of this study is to determine the safest needle tip position for computed tomography (CT)-guided lumbar transforaminal epidural steroid injections as determined by incidence of intravascular injection. Methods Three radiologists, in consensus, reviewed procedural imaging for consecutive CT-fluoroscopic lumbar transforaminal epidural steroid injections performed during a 16-month period. Intravascular injections were identified and categorized by needle tip position, vessel type injected, intravascular injection volume and procedural phase containing the intravascular injection. Pearson chi-square and logistic regression testing were used to assess differences between groups, as appropriate. Results Intravascular injections occurred in 9% (52/606) of injections. The intravascular injection rate was significantly lower (P<0.001) for extraforaminal needle position (0%, 0/109) compared to junctional (8%, 27/319) and foraminal (14%, 25/178) needle tip positions. Of the intravascular injections, 4% (2/52) were likely arterial, 35% (18/52) were likely venous, and 62% (32/52) were indeterminate for vessel type injected. 46% (24/52) of intravascular injections were large volume, 33% (17/52) were small volume, and 21% (11/52) were trace volume. 56% (29/52) of intravascular injections occurred with the contrast trial dose, 29% (15/52) with the steroid/analgesic cocktail, and 15% (8/52) with both. Conclusions An extraforaminal needle position for CT-fluoroscopic lumbar transforaminal epidural steroid injections decreases the risk of intravascular injection and therefore may be safer than other needle tip positions. PMID:28097241

Effect of educational and policy interventions on institutional utilization of wet nebulization respiratory drugs and portable inhalers.

PubMed

Lowe, Donna O; Lummis, Heather; Zhang, Ying; Sketris, Ingrid S

2008-01-01

Asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease treatment guidelines support the preferential use of portable inhalers (PIs) over wet nebulization (WN) respiratory therapy. Hospital- and community-based educational initiatives and a community-based provincial drug program policy change were previously implemented to promote the conversion of WN therapy to PI and spacer device use in Nova Scotia. To examine the effect of these interventions on salbutamol, ipratropium bromide, and spacer device (Aerochamber) use at the Queen Elizabeth II Health Sciences Centre (QEII HSC). We conducted a time-series analysis of drug utilization data from August 1998 to July 2005. We used two intervention phases compared to the pre-intervention phase to determine whether the educational and policy interventions were associated with significant changes in monthly drug and spacer device utilization rates at the QEII HSC (1000-bed teaching hospital; Halifax, Nova Scotia). Salbutamol and ipratropium bromide PI use significantly increased in both intervention phases, compared to the pre-intervention phase. Mean (SD) defined daily doses/100 bed-days for salbutamol PI increased from 30.4 (0.4) in the pre-intervention phase to 34.6 (0.9) and 37.0 (0.4) in intervention phases I and II respectively (p<0.001 for both), and ipratropium bromide PI increased from 27.3 (3.5) to 32.8 (2.5) in intervention phase I (p=0.004) and 35.6 (3.5) in intervention phase II (p<0.001). However, a significant corresponding decrease was observed with salbutamol WN only. Mean (SD) Aerochamber units/100 bed-days significantly increased. Educational and policy interventions had limited effects on converting WN to PI use at the QEII HSC.

Influence of precursor concentration on physical properties of CdO thin films prepared by spray pyrolysis technique using nebulizer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Anitha, M.; Amalraj, L.; Anitha, N.

2017-12-01

Cadmium oxide (CdO) thin films were prepared with different concentrations of precursor solution (0.05, 0.1, 0.15, 0.2 and 0.25 M, respectively) at the optimized temperature (200 °C) using the nebulized spray pyrolysis technique to obtain better crystallinity in polycrystalline thin films on amorphous glass substrates. The XRD characterization of those samples revealed a preferential orientation along the (111) plane having a cubic structure. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis displayed that all the as-deposited thin films have spherical shaped grains. The transmittance of the as-deposited CdO thin films had decreased from 88 to 71% for longer wavelength regions (600-900 nm) as the precursor concentration had increased and then increased for higher precursor concentration. The optical band gap was found to lie between 2.45 and 2.40 eV belonging to direct transition for those thin films. The presence of Cd-O bond (540 cm-1) was confirmed by FTIR spectrum. The emission properties of CdO thin films were studied by luminescence spectrum recorded at room temperature. A maximum carrier concentration and minimum resistivity values of 4.743 × 1019 cm- 3 and 1.06 × 10-3 Ω-cm, respectively, were obtained for 0.2 M precursor concentration. These CdO thin films have high optical transmittance and high room temperature conductivity, which can be used as the TCO and Solar cell (window layer) material.

Deformational injection rate measuring method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Marčič, Milan

2002-09-01

After completing the diesel engine endurance testing, we detected various traces of thermal load on the walls of combustion chambers located in the engine pistons. The engines were fitted with ω combustion chambers. The thermal load of different intensity levels occurred where the spray of fuel, fuel vapor, and air interacted with the combustion chamber wall. The uneven thermal load distribution of the combustion chamber wall results from varying injection rates in each injection nozzle hole. The most widely applied controlling methods so far for injection rate measurement, such as the Zeuch and Bosch concepts, allow measurement of only the total injection rate in multihole nozzles, without providing any indication whatsoever of the injection rate differences in individual injection nozzle holes. The new deformational measuring method described in the article allows the injection rate to be measured in each hole of the multihole nozzle. The results of the measurements using this method showed that the differences occurred in injection rates of individual injection nozzle holes. These differences may be the cause of various thermal loads on the combustion chamber walls. The criterion for injection rate is the deformation of the membrane due to an increase in the fuel quantity in the measuring space and due to the pressure waves resulting from the fuel being injected into the measuring space. The membrane deformation is measured using strain gauges, glued to the membrane and forming the Wheatstone's bridge. We devoted special attention to the temperature compensation of the Wheatstone's bridge and the membrane, heated up during the measurements.

Filmless radiology: The design, integration, implementation, and evaluation of a digital imaging network. Potential investigations to be conducted in conjunction with the Digital-Imaging Network System (DINS) evaluation project. Revision 1. Annual report, 1 March 1987-28 February 1988

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kerlin, B.D.; Cerva, J.R.; Glenn, M.E.

This document describes evaluation studies and technical investigations proposed for the three-year Digital Imaging Network System (DINS) prototype project, sponsored by the U.S. Army Medical Research and Development Command, Ft. Detrick, Maryland. The project has three overall goals. The first is to install and operate a prototype DINS at each of two University-based hospitals for test purposes. The second is to evaluate key aspects of each prototype system once it is in full operation. The third is to develop guidelines and specifications for an operational DINS suitable for use by the military and others developing systems of the future. Thismore » document defines twelve overall evaluative questions for use in meeting the second and third objectives of the project and proposes studies that will answer these questions.« less

PSR Injection Line Upgrade

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Blind, Barbara; Jason, Andrew J.

1997-05-01

We describe the new injection line to be implemented for the Los Alamos Proton Storage Ring in the change from a two-step process to direct H- injection. While obeying all geometrical constraints imposed by the existing structures, the new line has properties not found in the present injection line. In particular, it features decoupled transverse phase spaces downstream of the skew bend and a high degree of tunability of the beam at the injection foil. A comprehensive set of error studies has dictated the component tolerances imposed and has indicated the expected performance of the system.

Ducted fuel injection: A new approach for lowering soot emissions from direct-injection engines

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Mueller, Charles J.; Nilsen, Christopher W.; Ruth, Daniel J.

Designers of direct-injection compression-ignition engines use a variety of strategies to improve the fuel/charge-gas mixture within the combustion chamber for increased efficiency and reduced pollutant emissions. Strategies include the use of high fuel-injection pressures, multiple injections, small injector orifices, flow swirl, long-ignition-delay conditions, and oxygenated fuels. This is the first journal publication paper on a new mixing-enhancement strategy for emissions reduction: ducted fuel injection. The concept involves injecting fuel along the axis of a small cylindrical duct within the combustion chamber, to enhance the mixture in the autoignition zone relative to a conventional free-spray configuration (i.e., a fuel spray thatmore » is not surrounded by a duct). Finally, the results described herein, from initial proof-of-concept experiments conducted in a constant-volume combustion vessel, show dramatically lower soot incandescence from ducted fuel injection than from free sprays over a range of charge-gas conditions that are representative of those in modern direct-injection compression-ignition engines.« less

Ducted fuel injection: A new approach for lowering soot emissions from direct-injection engines

DOE PAGES

Mueller, Charles J.; Nilsen, Christopher W.; Ruth, Daniel J.; ...

2017-07-18

Designers of direct-injection compression-ignition engines use a variety of strategies to improve the fuel/charge-gas mixture within the combustion chamber for increased efficiency and reduced pollutant emissions. Strategies include the use of high fuel-injection pressures, multiple injections, small injector orifices, flow swirl, long-ignition-delay conditions, and oxygenated fuels. This is the first journal publication paper on a new mixing-enhancement strategy for emissions reduction: ducted fuel injection. The concept involves injecting fuel along the axis of a small cylindrical duct within the combustion chamber, to enhance the mixture in the autoignition zone relative to a conventional free-spray configuration (i.e., a fuel spray thatmore » is not surrounded by a duct). Finally, the results described herein, from initial proof-of-concept experiments conducted in a constant-volume combustion vessel, show dramatically lower soot incandescence from ducted fuel injection than from free sprays over a range of charge-gas conditions that are representative of those in modern direct-injection compression-ignition engines.« less

The Comparative Study of Morals and Democracy and Their Effect on the Behavioral Reflections of Khawaja Nasir Al-Din Tusi and John Dewey

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mirzaei, Khalil; Golestani, Sayyed Hashem; Vaezi, Sayyed Hossain

2016-01-01

This study was aimed at comparatively analyzing morals and democracy from John Dewey and Khawaja Nasir al-Din Tusi's viewpoint. It also sought the effect of the two philosophers' viewpoint about morals and democracy and behavioral reflections. The purpose of this study was also to become familiar with the effect of morals and democracy on…

Small baseline subsets approach of DInSAR for investigating land surface deformation along the high-speed railway

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rao, Xiong; Tang, Yunwei

2014-11-01

Land surface deformation evidently exists in a newly-built high-speed railway in the southeast of China. In this study, we utilize the Small BAseline Subsets (SBAS)-Differential Synthetic Aperture Radar Interferometry (DInSAR) technique to detect land surface deformation along the railway. In this work, 40 Cosmo-SkyMed satellite images were selected to analyze the spatial distribution and velocity of the deformation in study area. 88 pairs of image with high coherence were firstly chosen with an appropriate threshold. These images were used to deduce the deformation velocity map and the variation in time series. This result can provide information for orbit correctness and ground control point (GCP) selection in the following steps. Then, more pairs of image were selected to tighten the constraint in time dimension, and to improve the final result by decreasing the phase unwrapping error. 171 combinations of SAR pairs were ultimately selected. Reliable GCPs were re-selected according to the previously derived deformation velocity map. Orbital residuals error was rectified using these GCPs, and nonlinear deformation components were estimated. Therefore, a more accurate surface deformation velocity map was produced. Precise geodetic leveling work was implemented in the meantime. We compared the leveling result with the geocoding SBAS product using the nearest neighbour method. The mean error and standard deviation of the error were respectively 0.82 mm and 4.17 mm. This result demonstrates the effectiveness of DInSAR technique for monitoring land surface deformation, which can serve as a reliable decision for supporting highspeed railway project design, construction, operation and maintenance.

Sensor for Injection Rate Measurements

PubMed Central

Marcic, Milan

2006-01-01

A vast majority of the medium and high speed Diesel engines are equipped with multi-hole injection nozzles nowadays. Inaccuracies in workmanship and changing hydraulic conditions in the nozzles result in differences in injection rates between individual injection nozzle holes. The new deformational measuring method described in the paper allows injection rate measurement in each injection nozzle hole. The differences in injection rates lead to uneven thermal loads of Diesel engine combustion chambers. All today known measuring method, such as Bosch and Zeuch give accurate results of the injection rate in diesel single-hole nozzles. With multihole nozzles they tell us nothing about possible differences in injection rates between individual holes of the nozzle. At deformational measuring method, the criterion of the injected fuel is expressed by the deformation of membrane occurring due to the collision of the pressure wave against the membrane. The pressure wave is generated by the injection of the fuel into the measuring space. For each hole of the nozzle the measuring device must have a measuring space of its own into which fuel is injected as well as its measuring membrane and its own fuel outlet. During measurements procedure the measuring space must be filled with fuel to maintain an overpressure of 5 kPa. Fuel escaping from the measuring device is conducted into the graduated cylinders for measuring the volumetric flow through each hole of the nozzle.The membrane deformation is assessed by strain gauges. They are glued to the membrane and forming the full Wheatstone's bridge. We devoted special attention to the membrane shape and temperature compensation of the strain gauges.

2.4-3.2 GHz robust self-injecting injection-locked phase-locked loop

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Jincheng; Zhang, Zhao; Qi, Nan; Liu, Liyuan; Liu, Jian; Wu, Nanjian

2018-04-01

In this paper, we propose a robust self-injecting injection-locked phase-locked loop (SI-ILPLL). It adopts a phase alignment loop (PAL) based on a subsampling phase frequency detector to align the phase between the injected pulse and the voltage-controlled oscillator (VCO) output. With the proposed phase frequency detector, the PAL performs phase alignment and the pulse generator can self-inject pulses into the VCO for injection locking. The subsampling phase detection and self-injection locking techniques can suppress the phase noise of the SI-ILPLL. The SI-ILPLL shows excellent robustness to environmental interference. The SI-ILPLL is implemented in 65 nm CMOS technology. It occupies an active area of 0.7 mm2. The measured root-mean-square (RMS) jitters at 3.2 GHz output without and with injection locking are 216 and 131 fs, respectively. When the supply voltage varies from 1.17 to 1.23 V and the temperature varies from 0 to 80 °C, the maximum jitter variation of all the output frequencies is less than 50 fs. The measured results demonstrate that even when a large interference appears at the supply voltage and unlocks the SI-ILPLL, the SI-ILPLL can self-recover its injection-locked state rapidly after the disturbance disappears, whereas the conventional ILPLL cannot self-recover its locked state after losing it. The power consumption of the SI-ILPLL is 7.4 mW under a 1.2 V supply voltage. The SI-ILPLL achieves a figure of merit (FOM) of -249 dB.

Syringe-injectable electronics.

PubMed

Liu, Jia; Fu, Tian-Ming; Cheng, Zengguang; Hong, Guosong; Zhou, Tao; Jin, Lihua; Duvvuri, Madhavi; Jiang, Zhe; Kruskal, Peter; Xie, Chong; Suo, Zhigang; Fang, Ying; Lieber, Charles M

2015-07-01

Seamless and minimally invasive three-dimensional interpenetration of electronics within artificial or natural structures could allow for continuous monitoring and manipulation of their properties. Flexible electronics provide a means for conforming electronics to non-planar surfaces, yet targeted delivery of flexible electronics to internal regions remains difficult. Here, we overcome this challenge by demonstrating the syringe injection (and subsequent unfolding) of sub-micrometre-thick, centimetre-scale macroporous mesh electronics through needles with a diameter as small as 100 μm. Our results show that electronic components can be injected into man-made and biological cavities, as well as dense gels and tissue, with >90% device yield. We demonstrate several applications of syringe-injectable electronics as a general approach for interpenetrating flexible electronics with three-dimensional structures, including (1) monitoring internal mechanical strains in polymer cavities, (2) tight integration and low chronic immunoreactivity with several distinct regions of the brain, and (3) in vivo multiplexed neural recording. Moreover, syringe injection enables the delivery of flexible electronics through a rigid shell, the delivery of large-volume flexible electronics that can fill internal cavities, and co-injection of electronics with other materials into host structures, opening up unique applications for flexible electronics.

Syringe-injectable electronics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Jia; Fu, Tian-Ming; Cheng, Zengguang; Hong, Guosong; Zhou, Tao; Jin, Lihua; Duvvuri, Madhavi; Jiang, Zhe; Kruskal, Peter; Xie, Chong; Suo, Zhigang; Fang, Ying; Lieber, Charles M.

2015-07-01

Seamless and minimally invasive three-dimensional interpenetration of electronics within artificial or natural structures could allow for continuous monitoring and manipulation of their properties. Flexible electronics provide a means for conforming electronics to non-planar surfaces, yet targeted delivery of flexible electronics to internal regions remains difficult. Here, we overcome this challenge by demonstrating the syringe injection (and subsequent unfolding) of sub-micrometre-thick, centimetre-scale macroporous mesh electronics through needles with a diameter as small as 100 μm. Our results show that electronic components can be injected into man-made and biological cavities, as well as dense gels and tissue, with >90% device yield. We demonstrate several applications of syringe-injectable electronics as a general approach for interpenetrating flexible electronics with three-dimensional structures, including (1) monitoring internal mechanical strains in polymer cavities, (2) tight integration and low chronic immunoreactivity with several distinct regions of the brain, and (3) in vivo multiplexed neural recording. Moreover, syringe injection enables the delivery of flexible electronics through a rigid shell, the delivery of large-volume flexible electronics that can fill internal cavities, and co-injection of electronics with other materials into host structures, opening up unique applications for flexible electronics.

Comparison of incidence of intravascular injections during transforaminal epidural steroid injection using different needle types

PubMed Central

Lee, Yong Ho

2014-01-01

Background Infrequent but serious complications of transforaminal epidural steroid injection (TFESI) occur due to inadvertent intravascular injections. A few studies reported that the different needle types can influence on the occurrences of intravascular incidence in TFESI. This study prospectively evaluated whether short-bevel needle can reduce the incidences of intravascular injection of TFESI compared to long-bevel needles. Methods From March 2013 to December 2013, 239 consecutive patients were enrolled and received 249 fluoroscopically guided TFESI using the classic technique. Confirmation of intravascular spread was done initially with real time fluoroscopy and then with digital subtraction angiography method in a same patient. Injection technique for TFESI was the same for both short-bevel and long-bevel needle types. Results The incidences of intravascular injections with the long-bevel and short-bevel needles were 15.0% (21/140) and 9.2% (4/140), respectively. More than half of intravascular injections occurred simultaneously with epidural injections (8.0%, 20/249). There were no statistically significant differences between the long-bevel and the short-bevel needles in the rates of intravascular injections (P = 0.17). Conclusions Short-bevel needles did not demonstrate any benefits in reducing the incidence of intravascular injection. PMID:25302096

Hydrogeology and results of injection tests at waste-injection test sites in Pinellas County, Florida

USGS Publications Warehouse

Hickey, John J.

1982-01-01

Potential benefits or hazards to freshwater resources could result from subsurface injection of treated wastewater. Recognizing this, the U.S. Geological Survey, in cooperation with Pinellas County and the city of St. Petersburg, undertook an evaluation of the hydrogeology and injection of wastewater at proposed test sites on the Pinellas peninsula. The injection sites are underlain by sedimentary rocks ranging in age from Cretaceous to Pleistocene. Lower Eocene carbonate rocks were penetrated to a maximum depth of 3,504 feet and were found to have relatively low water yields. The most permeable part of the investigated section was in rocks of middle Eocene age within the Floridan aquifer. At the injection sites, the Floridan aquifer was subdivided into four permeable zones and three semiconfining beds. The test injection zone is within the Avon Park Limestone, the most productive of the identified permeable zones, with a transmissivity of about 1,000,000 feet squared per day. Two semiconfining beds are above the injection zone in the Suwannee Limestone and Ocala Limestone and have vertical hydraulic conductivities estimated to range from about 0.1 to 1 foot per day where these beds do not contain clay. Limited fresh ground-water supplies exist in the Floridan aquifer within the Pinellas peninsula. At all test sites, chloride concentration in the injection zone ranged from 19,000 to 20,000 milligrams per liter. Injection tests ranging in duration from 3 to 91.1 days were run at three different sites. Pressure buildup occurred in permeable zones above and below the injection zone during these tests. Calculated pressure buildup in observation wells close to and at some distance from the test wells was typically less than 1 pound per square inch. Injection and formation water will probably move slowly through the semiconfining bed overlying the injection zone, and long-term injection tests will be needed to determine the effectiveness of these beds to retard flow. The

AbobotulinumtoxinA Injection

MedlinePlus

... tightening of the neck muscles that may cause neck pain and abnormal head positions). AbobotulinumtoxinA injection is also ... it. If you are using abobotulinumtoxinA to treat cervical dystonia, it may take 2 weeks or longer before you feel the full benefit of abobotulinumtoxinA injection.

Reduced injection pressures using a compressed air injection technique (CAIT): an in vitro study.

PubMed

Tsui, Ban C H; Knezevich, Mark P; Pillay, Jennifer J

2008-01-01

High injection pressures have been associated with intraneural injection and persistent neurological injury in animals. Our objective was to test whether a reported simple compressed air injection technique (CAIT) would limit the generation of injection pressures to below a suggested 1,034 mm Hg limit in an in vitro model. After ethics board approval, 30 consenting anesthesiologists injected saline into a semiclosed system. Injection pressures using 30 mL syringes connected to a 22 gauge needle and containing 20 mL of saline were measured for 60 seconds using: (1) a typical "syringe feel" method, and (2) CAIT, thereby drawing 10 mL of air above the saline and compressing this to 5 mL prior to and during injections. All anesthesiologists performed the syringe feel method before introduction and demonstration of CAIT. Using CAIT, no anesthesiologist generated pressures above 1,034 mm Hg, while 29 of 30 produced pressures above this limit at some time using the syringe feel method. The mean pressure using CAIT was lower (636 +/- 71 vs. 1378 +/- 194 mm Hg, P = .025), and the syringe feel method resulted in higher peak pressures (1,875 +/- 206 vs. 715 +/- 104 mm Hg, P = .000). This study demonstrated that CAIT can effectively keep injection pressures under 1,034 mm Hg in this in vitro model. Animal and clinical studies will be needed to determine whether CAIT will allow objective, real-time pressure monitoring. If high pressure injections are proven to contribute to nerve injury in humans, this technique may have the potential to improve the safety of peripheral nerve blocks.

Pellet injection technology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Combs, S. K.

1993-07-01

During the last 10 to 15 years, significant progress has been made worldwide in the area of pellet injection technology. This specialized field of research originated as a possible solution to the problem of depositing atoms of fuel deep within magnetically confined, hot plasmas for refueling of fusion power reactors. Using pellet injection systems, frozen macroscopic (millimeter-size) pellets composed of the isotopes of hydrogen are formed, accelerated, and transported to the plasma for fueling. The process and benefits of plasma fueling by this approach have been demonstrated conclusively on a number of toroidal magnetic confinement configurations; consequently, pellet injection is the leading technology for deep fueling of magnetically confined plasmas for controlled thermonuclear fusion research. Hydrogen pellet injection devices operate at very low temperatures (≂10 K) at which solid hydrogen ice can be formed and sustained. Most injectors use conventional pneumatic (light gas gun) or centrifuge (mechanical) acceleration concepts to inject hydrogen or deuterium pellets at speeds of ≂1-2 km/s. Pellet injectors that can operate at quasi-steady state (pellet delivery rates of 1-40 Hz) have been developed for long-pulse fueling. The design and operation of injectors with the heaviest hydrogen isotope, tritium, offer some special problems because of tritium's radioactivity. To address these problems, a proof-of-principle experiment was carried out in which tritium pellets were formed and accelerated to speeds of 1.4 km/s. Tritium pellet injection is scheduled on major fusion research devices within the next few years. Several advanced accelerator concepts are under development to increase the pellet velocity. One of these is the two-stage light gas gun, for which speeds of slightly over 4 km/s have already been reported in laboratory experiments with deuterium ice. A few two-stage pneumatic systems (single-shot) have recently been installed on tokamak

Prevalence and correlates of crack-cocaine injection among young injection drug users in the United States, 1997-1999.

PubMed

Santibanez, Scott S; Garfein, Richard S; Swartzendruber, Andrea; Kerndt, Peter R; Morse, Edward; Ompad, Danielle; Strathdee, Steffanie; Williams, Ian T; Friedman, Samuel R; Ouellet, Lawrence J

2005-03-07

We estimated prevalence and identified correlates of crack-cocaine injection among young injection drug users in the United States. We analyzed data from the second Collaborative Injection Drug Users Study (CIDUS II), a 1997-1999 cohort study of 18-30-year-old, street-recruited injection drug users from six US cities. Crack-cocaine injection was reported by 329 (15%) of 2198 participants. Prevalence varied considerably by site (range, 1.5-28.0%). No participants injected only crack-cocaine. At four sites where crack-cocaine injection prevalence was greater than 10%, recent (past 6 months) crack-cocaine injection was correlated with recent daily injection and sharing of syringes, equipment, and drug solution. Lifetime crack-cocaine injection was correlated with using shooting galleries, initiating others into drug injection, and having serologic evidence of hepatitis B virus and hepatitis C virus infection. Crack-cocaine injection may be a marker for high-risk behaviors that can be used to direct efforts to prevent HIV and other blood-borne viral infections.

Teriparatide (rDNA origin) Injection

MedlinePlus

... teriparatide injection yourself the first time, read the User Manual that comes with it. Ask your doctor or ... injecting the medication how to inject it. The User Manual includes solutions to problems you may have when ...

Financial methods for waterflooding injectate design

DOEpatents

Heneman, Helmuth J.; Brady, Patrick V.

2017-08-08

A method of selecting an injectate for recovering liquid hydrocarbons from a reservoir includes designing a plurality of injectates, calculating a net present value of each injectate, and selecting a candidate injectate based on the net present value. For example, the candidate injectate may be selected to maximize the net present value of a waterflooding operation.

Talimogene Laherparepvec Injection

MedlinePlus

... sure to replace them right away. You should use rubber or latex gloves when bandaging the injection sites. You should be sure to put all cleaning materials, gloves, and bandages that were used for the injection sites into a sealed plastic bag and throw them away into the garbage.you ...

Injectable barriers for waste isolation

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Persoff, P.; Finsterle, S.; Moridis, G.J.

In this paper the authors report laboratory work and numerical simulation done in support of development and demonstration of injectable barriers formed from either of two fluids: colloidal silica or polysiloxane. Two principal problems addressed here are control of gel time and control of plume emplacement in the vadose zone. Gel time must be controlled so that the viscosity of the barrier fluid remains low long enough to inject the barrier, but increases soon enough to gel the barrier in place. During injection, the viscosity must be low enough to avoid high injection pressures which could uplift or fracture themore » formation. To test the grout gel time in the soil, the injection pressure was monitored as grouts were injected into sandpacks. When grout is injected into the vadose zone, it slumps under the influence of gravity, and redistributes due to capillary forces as it gels. The authors have developed a new module for the reservoir simulator TOUGH2 to model grout injection into the vadose zone, taking into account the increase of liquid viscosity as a function of gel concentration and time. They have also developed a model to calculate soil properties after complete solidification of the grout. The numerical model has been used to design and analyze laboratory experiments and field pilot tests. The authors present the results of computer simulations of grout injection, redistribution, and solidification.« less

Injectable foams for regenerative medicine.

PubMed

Prieto, Edna M; Page, Jonathan M; Harmata, Andrew J; Guelcher, Scott A

2014-01-01

The design of injectable biomaterials has attracted considerable attention in recent years. Many injectable biomaterials, such as hydrogels and calcium phosphate cements (CPCs), have nanoscale pores that limit the rate of cellular migration and proliferation. While introduction of macroporosity has been suggested to increase cellular infiltration and tissue healing, many conventional methods for generating macropores often require harsh processing conditions that preclude their use in injectable foams. In recent years, processes such as porogen leaching, gas foaming, and emulsion-templating have been adapted to generate macroporosity in injectable CPCs, hydrogels, and hydrophobic polymers. While some of the more mature injectable foam technologies have been evaluated in clinical trials, there are challenges remaining to be addressed, such as the biocompatibility and ultimate fate of the sacrificial phase used to generate pores within the foam after it sets in situ. Furthermore, while implantable scaffolds can be washed extensively to remove undesirable impurities, all of the components required to synthesize injectable foams must be injected into the defect. Thus, every compound in the foam must be biocompatible and noncytotoxic at the concentrations utilized. As future research addresses these critical challenges, injectable macroporous foams are anticipated to have an increasingly significant impact on improving patient outcomes for a number of clinical procedures. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Injectable Foams for Regenerative Medicine

PubMed Central

Prieto, Edna M.; Page, Jonathan M.; Harmata, Andrew J.

2013-01-01

The design of injectable biomaterials has attracted considerable attention in recent years. Many injectable biomaterials, such as hydrogels and calcium phosphate cements, have nanoscale pores that limit the rate of cellular migration and proliferation. While introduction of macroporosity has been suggested to increase cellular infiltration and tissue healing, many conventional methods for generating macropores often require harsh processing conditions that preclude their use in injectable foams. In recent years, processes such as porogen leaching, gas foaming, and emulsion-templating have been adapted to generate macroporosity in injectable calcium phosphate cements, hydrogels, and hydrophobic polymers. While some of the more mature injectable foam technologies have been evaluated in clinical trials, there are challenges remaining to be addressed, such as the biocompatibility and ultimate fate of the sacrificial phase used to generate pores within the foam after it sets in situ. Furthermore, while implantable scaffolds can be washed extensively to remove undesirable impurities, all of the components required to synthesize injectable foams must be injected into the defect. Thus, every compound in the foam must be biocompatible and non-cytotoxic at the concentrations utilized. As future research addresses these critical challenges, injectable macroporous foams are anticipated to have an increasingly significant impact on improving patient outcomes for a number of clinical procedures. PMID:24127230

Discontinuation rates and inter-injection interval for repeated intravesical botulinum toxin type A injections for detrusor overactivity.

PubMed

Veeratterapillay, Rajan; Harding, Chris; Teo, Luke; Vasdev, Nikhil; Abroaf, Ahmed; Dorkin, Trevor J; Pickard, Robert S; Hasan, Tahseen; Thorpe, Andrew C

2014-02-01

To report discontinuation rates, inter-injection interval and complication rates after repeated intravesical botulinum toxin type A for the treatment of detrusor overactivity. Patients with urodyamically proven detrusor overactivity who had two or more botulinum toxin type A injections in the period 2004-2011 at Freeman Hospital, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK, were considered for the present study. Discontinuation rates, complication rates and interval between botulinum toxin type A treatments were retrospectively analyzed. Overall, 125 patients (median age 53 years, range 19-83 years) were included in the analysis. The female-to-male ratio was 2.4:1 and median follow up was 38 months. A total of 96 patients had idiopathic detrusor overactivity, whereas 29 had neurogenic detrusor overactivity. A total of 667 injections were carried out, with 125 patients receiving two injections, 60 receiving three injections, 28 receiving four injections, 14 receiving five injections, three receiving six injections, three receiving seven injections and two receiving eight injections. The mean interval (±standard deviation) between the first and second injection (n = 125) was 17.6 months (±10.4), between the second and third (n = 60) was 15.7 ± 7.4 months, between the third and fourth (n = 28) was 15.4 ± 8.6 months, and between the fourth and subsequent injections (n = 22) was 11.6 ± 4.5 months. A total of 26% required intermittent catheterization, and 18% developed recurrent urinary tract infections. There was a discontinuation rate of 25% at 60 months. Repeated botulinum toxin type A injections represent a safe and effective method for managing patients with idiopathic detrusor overactivity and neurogenic detrusor overactivity. We have shown that the inter-injection interval remains unchanged up to five injections. © 2013 The Japanese Urological Association.

Reliability of Vibrating Mesh Technology.

PubMed

Gowda, Ashwin A; Cuccia, Ann D; Smaldone, Gerald C

2017-01-01

For delivery of inhaled aerosols, vibrating mesh systems are more efficient than jet nebulizers are and do not require added gas flow. We assessed the reliability of a vibrating mesh nebulizer (Aerogen Solo, Aerogen Ltd, Galway Ireland) suitable for use in mechanical ventilation. An initial observational study was performed with 6 nebulizers to determine run time and efficiency using normal saline and distilled water. Nebulizers were run until cessation of aerosol production was noted, with residual volume and run time recorded. Three controllers were used to assess the impact of the controller on nebulizer function. Following the observational study, a more detailed experimental protocol was performed using 20 nebulizers. For this analysis, 2 controllers were used, and time to cessation of aerosol production was noted. Gravimetric techniques were used to measure residual volume. Total nebulization time and residual volume were recorded. Failure was defined as premature cessation of aerosol production represented by residual volume of > 10% of the nebulizer charge. In the initial observational protocol, an unexpected sporadic failure rate was noted of 25% in 55 experimental runs. In the experimental protocol, a failure rate was noted of 30% in 40 experimental runs. Failed runs in the experimental protocol exhibited a wide range of retained volume averaging ± SD 36 ± 21.3% compared with 3.2 ± 1.5% (P = .001) in successful runs. Small but significant differences existed in nebulization time between controllers. Aerogen Solo nebulization was often randomly interrupted with a wide range of retained volumes. Copyright © 2017 by Daedalus Enterprises.

Integrated analysis of differential interferometric synthetic aperture radar (DInSAR) and geological data for measuring deformation movement of Kaligarang fault, Semarang-Indonesia

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Prasetyo, Y.; Fakhrudin, Warasambi, S. M.

2016-05-01

Semarang is one of the densely populated city in Central Java which is has Kaligarang's fault. It is lie in Kaligarang River and across several dense urban settlement. The position of Kaligarang's river itself divides in the direction nearly north-south city of Semarang. The impact of the fault can be seen in severals indication such as a land subsidence phenomenon in Tinjomoyo village area which is make impact to house and road destruction. In this research, we have used combination methods between InSAR, DinSAR and geomorphology (geology data) where is this techniques used to identity the fault area and estimate Kaligarang's fault movement velocity. In fault movement velocity observation, we only compute the movement in vertical with neglect horizontal movement. The data used in this study of one pair ALOS PALSAR level 1.0 which was acquired on June 8, 2007and 10 of September 2009. Besides that third ALOS PALSAR earlier, also used data of SRTM DEM 4th version, is used for the correction of the topography. The use of the three methods already mentioned earlier have different functions. For the lnSAR method used for the establishment of a digital model in Semarang. After getting high models digital city of Semarang, the identification process can be done layout, length, width and area of the Kaligarang fault using geomorphology. Results of such identification can be calculated using the rate of deformation and fault movement. From the result generated DinSAR method of land subsidence rate between 3 em to II em. To know the truth measurement that used DinSAR method, is performed with the decline of validation that measured using GPS. After validating obtained standard deviation of 3,073 em. To estimate the Kaligarang's fault pattern and direction is using the geomorphology method. The results that Kaligarang's is an active fault that has fault strike slip as fault pattern. It makes this research is useful because could be used as an inquick assessment in fault

Injecting drug use: Gendered risk.

PubMed

Zahnow, Renee; Winstock, Adam R; Maier, Larissa J; Levy, Jay; Ferris, Jason

2018-06-01

Research demonstrates gender related differences in drug-use practices and risk behaviours. Females' structural vulnerability stemming from traditional gender roles and gender-power relations may enhance their propensity to experience injecting related risk. In this paper we explore gender differences in injection practices at the initiation event, during the first year of injecting and in the most recent 12-month period, to inform more effective harm reduction strategies. Data used in this study were drawn from the Global Drug Survey 2015. The study employs chi-square and logistic regression to assess gender differences in injection behaviours in a sample of current injectors residing in six global regions: North-West Europe; Southern Eastern Europe; North America. South America and Oceania. Females were more likely than males to report being injected by an intimate partner at initiation (OR = 4.4, 95%CI: 2.2-8.8), during the first year of injecting (OR = 4.8, 95% CI: 2.4-9.3) and in the most recent 12-month period (OR = 2.5, 95%CI: 1.0-6.2). Females reported greater difficulties accessing sterile equipment (X 2 (2,N = 453) = 8.2, p = 0.02) and were more likely to share injecting equipment than males (X 2 (1,N = 463) = 3.9, p = 0.05). Our findings highlight females' continued dependence on their intimate partner to administer the injection into the first year of their injecting career. Females remained more likely than males to rely on intimate partners for injection during the most recent 12-month period. Females report greater difficulties in sourcing sterile equipment and are more likely to share injecting equipment. We suggest that these findings reflect the broader social structure in which females are disempowered through traditional gender roles and the lack of gender appropriate harm reduction services. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Effect of inhaled furosemide and torasemide on bronchial response to ultrasonically nebulized distilled water in asthmatic subjects.

PubMed

Foresi, A; Pelucchi, A; Mastropasqua, B; Cavigioli, G; Carlesi, R M; Marazzini, L

1992-08-01

Inhaled furosemide has been shown to reduce the bronchoconstriction induced by several indirect stimuli, including ultrasonically nebulized distilled water (UNDW). Because the protective effect could be due to the inhibition of the Na(+)-2Cl(-)-K+ cotransport system of bronchial epithelium, we have compared the protective effect of inhaled furosemide with that of inhaled torasemide, a new and more potent loop diuretic, on UNDW-induced bronchoconstriction in a group of 12 asthmatic subjects. UNDW challenge was performed by constructing a stimulus-response curve with five increasing volume outputs of distilled water (from 0.5 to 5.2 ml/min) and the bronchial response expressed as the provocative output causing a 20% fall in FEV1 (PO20UNDW). On different days, each subject inhaled an equal dose (28 mg) of furosemide and torasemide in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study 5 min prior to an UNDW challenge. Furosemide and torasemide had no significant effect on resting lung function. The geometric mean value of PO20UNDW measured after placebo was 1.73 ml/min. This was significantly lower than that recorded after furosemide (4.25 ml/min; p < 0.025), but not after torasemide (3.05 ml/min; p = 0.07). Inhaled furosemide totally blocked bronchial response to UNDW in five subjects. In two of five subjects the response was also blocked by inhaled torasemide. A remarkable increase in diuresis was noted only after torasemide in most subjects. We conclude that inhaled furosemide has a better protective effect than does inhaled torasemide against UNDW-induced bronchoconstriction. However, the protective effect of furosemide is variable, with some asthmatic patients showing no change in bronchial response to UNDW.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

10 years of prophylaxis with nebulized liposomal amphotericin B and the changing epidemiology of Aspergillus spp. infection in lung transplantation.

PubMed

Peghin, Maddalena; Monforte, Victor; Martin-Gomez, Maria-Teresa; Ruiz-Camps, Isabel; Berastegui, Cristina; Saez, Berta; Riera, Jordi; Ussetti, Piedad; Solé, Juan; Gavaldá, Joan; Roman, Antonio

2016-01-01

The aim of this study was to assess the outcome and tolerability of prophylactic nebulized liposomal amphotericin B (n-LAB) in lung transplant recipients (LTR) and the changing epidemiology of Aspergillus spp. infection and colonization. We performed an observational study including consecutive LTR recipients (2003-2013) undergoing n-LAB prophylaxis lifetime. A total of 412 patients were included (mean postoperative follow-up 2.56 years; IQR 1.01-4.65). Fifty-three (12.8%) patients developed 59 Aspergillus spp. infections, and 22 invasive aspergillosis (overall incidence 5.3%). Since 2009, person-time incidence rates of Aspergillus spp. colonization and infection decreased (2003-2008, 0.19; 2009-2014, 0.09; P = 0.0007), but species with reduced susceptibility or resistance to amphotericin significantly increased (2003-2008, 38.1% vs 2009-2014, 58.1%; P = 0.039). Chronic lung allograft dysfunction (CLAD) was associated with Aspergillus spp. colonization and infection (HR 24.4, 95% CI 14.28-41.97; P = 0.00). Only 2.9% of patients presented adverse effects, and 1.7% required discontinuation. Long-term administration of prophylaxis with n-LAB has proved to be tolerable and can be used for preventing Aspergillus spp. infection in LTR. Over the last years, the incidence of Aspergillus spp. colonization and infection has decreased, but species with reduced amphotericin susceptibility or resistance are emerging. CLAD is associated with Aspergillus spp. colonization and infection. © 2015 Steunstichting ESOT.

Obeticholic acid raises LDL-cholesterol and reduces HDL-cholesterol in the Diet-Induced NASH (DIN) hamster model.

PubMed

Briand, François; Brousseau, Emmanuel; Quinsat, Marjolaine; Burcelin, Rémy; Sulpice, Thierry

2018-01-05

The use of rat and mouse models limits the translation to humans for developing novel drugs targeting nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Obeticholic acid (OCA) illustrates this limitation since its dyslipidemic effect in humans cannot be observed in these rodents. Conversely, Golden Syrian hamsters have a lipoprotein metabolism mimicking human dyslipidemia since it does express the cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP). We therefore developed a Diet-Induced NASH (DIN) hamster model and evaluated the impact of OCA. Compared with chow fed controls, hamsters fed for 20 weeks with a free-choice (FC) diet, developed obesity, insulin resistance, dyslipidemia and NASH (microvesicular steatosis, inflammation, hepatocyte ballooning and perisinusoidal to bridging fibrosis). After 20 weeks of diet, FC fed hamsters were treated without or with obeticholic acid (15mg/kg/day) for 5 weeks. Although a non-significant trend towards higher dietary caloric intake was observed, OCA significantly lowered body weight after 5 weeks of treatment. OCA significantly increased CETP activity and LDL-C levels by 20% and 27%, and reduced HDL-C levels by 20%. OCA blunted hepatic gene expression of Cyp7a1 and Cyp8b1 and reduced fecal bile acids mass excretion by 64% (P < 0.05). Hamsters treated with OCA showed a trend towards higher scavenger receptor Class B type I (SR-BI) and lower LDL-receptor hepatic protein expression. OCA reduced NAS score for inflammation (P < 0.01) and total NAS score, although not significantly. Compared to mouse and rat models, the DIN hamster replicates benefits and side effects of OCA as observed in humans, and should be useful for evaluating novel drugs targeting NASH. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Accuracy of acromioclavicular joint injections.

PubMed

Wasserman, Bradley R; Pettrone, Sarah; Jazrawi, Laith M; Zuckerman, Joseph D; Rokito, Andrew S

2013-01-01

Injection to the acromioclavicular (AC) joint can be both diagnostic and therapeutic. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of in vivo AC joint injections. Case series; Level of evidence, 4. Thirty patients with pain localized to the AC joint were injected with 1 mL of 1% lidocaine and 0.5 mL of radiographic contrast material (Isovue). Radiographs of the AC joint were taken after the injection. Each radiograph was reviewed by a musculoskeletal radiologist and graded as intra-articular, extra-articular, or partially intra-articular. Of the 30 injections performed, 13 (43.3%) were intra-articular, 7 (23.3%) were partially articular, and 10 (33.3%) were extra-articular. When the intra-articular and the partially articular groups were combined, 20 patients (66.7%) had some contrast dye in the AC joint. This study demonstrates that despite the relatively superficial location of the AC joint, the clinical accuracy of AC joint injections remains relatively low.

Predictors of Sharing Injection Equipment by HIV-Seropositive Injection Drug Users

PubMed Central

Latkin, Carl A.; Buchanan, Amy S.; Metsch, Lisa R.; Knight, Kelly; Latka, Mary H.; Mizuno, Yuko; Knowlton, Amy R.

2009-01-01

Among HIV-positive injection drug users (IDUs), we examined baseline predictors of lending needles and syringes, and sharing cookers, cotton, and rinse water in the prior 3 months at follow-up. Participants were enrolled in INSPIRE, a secondary prevention intervention for sexually active HIV-positive IDUs in four US cities during 2001–2005. The analyses involved 357 participants who reported injecting drugs in the prior six months at either the 6- or 12-months follow-up visit. About half (49%) reported at least one sharing episode. In adjusted analyses, peer norms supporting safer injection practices, and having primary HIV medical care visits in the prior 6 months were associated with reporting no sharing of injection equipment. Higher levels of psychological distress was associated with a greater likelihood of reporting drug paraphernalia sharing. These findings suggest that intervention approaches for reducing HIV-seropositive IDUs’ transmission of blood-borne infections should include peer-focused interventions to alter norms of drug paraphernalia sharing and promoting primary HIV care and mental health services. PMID:19186356

Predictors of sharing injection equipment by HIV-seropositive injection drug users.

PubMed

Latkin, Carl A; Buchanan, Amy S; Metsch, Lisa R; Knight, Kelly; Latka, Mary H; Mizuno, Yuko; Knowlton, Amy R

2008-12-01

Among HIV-positive injection drug users (IDUs), we examined baseline predictors of lending needles and syringes and sharing cookers, cotton, and rinse water in the prior 3 months at follow-up. Participants were enrolled in Intervention for Seropositive Injectors-Research and Evaluation, a secondary prevention intervention for sexually active HIV-positive IDUs in 4 US cities during 2001-2005. The analyses involved 357 participants who reported injecting drugs in the prior 6 months at either the 6- or 12-month follow-up visit. About half (49%) reported at least 1 sharing episode. In adjusted analyses, peer norms supporting safer injection practices and having primary HIV medical care visits in the prior 6 months were associated with reporting no sharing of injection equipment. Higher levels of psychological distress were associated with a greater likelihood of reporting drug paraphernalia sharing. These findings suggest that intervention approaches for reducing HIV-seropositive IDUs' transmission of blood-borne infections should include peer-focused interventions to alter norms of drug paraphernalia sharing and promoting primary HIV care and mental health services.

Sodium Ferric Gluconate Injection

MedlinePlus

Sodium ferric gluconate injection is used to treat iron-deficiency anemia (a lower than normal number of ... are also receiving the medication epoetin (Epogen, Procrit). Sodium ferric gluconate injection is in a class of ...

Prevalence and risk factors for injection site skin infections among people who inject drugs (PWID) in Tehran.

PubMed

Noroozi, Mehdi; Armoon, Bahram; Ghisvand, Hesam; Noroozi, Alireza; Karimy, Mahmood; Bazrafshan, Mohammad Rafi; Marshall, Brandon D L; Dieji, Bahman

2018-05-20

Injection drug use is one of the major public health problems in Iran. Injection drug use is associated with numerous negative health outcomes, such as blood-borne infections (HIV, HCV) and injection site skin infections (abscesses, cellulitis). The aim of this study was to determine prevalence of injection site skin infections and its associated risk factors among people who inject drugs (PWID) in Tehran, Iran. The cross-sectional study was conducted from March to August 2016 in Tehran province. A total of 500 PWID were recruited by convenience and snowball sampling from Drop-in Centers (DIC) in the South of Tehran. Our primary outcomes were self-report of ever having injection sites skin infections and receiving treatment for them. We first examined associations between individual variables and lifetime history of having injection site infections in bivariate analysis using the chi-square or Fisher's exact tests, as appropriate. Variables with P-value <.2 were included in a multiple logistic regression model. Overall, 40% (CI95%: 30.3%, 52.2%) of participants reported ever having an injection site infection. In the multivariable model, those with low socioeconomic status (AOR = 2.4, P = .03), self-reported as HIV positive (AOR =1.6, P = .01), reporting more than 3 injections per day (AOR = 4.1, P = .03) and reuse of their own syringes (AOR = 8.5, P = .03) were more likely to have injection sites skin infections. PWID who used needle and syringe program (NSP) services were less likely to report injection site infections (AOR = 0.5, P = .04). We have identified several risk factors for injection sites infections among PWID, including frequency of injection per day, reuse of their own syringes, not using NSP services, HIV status, socioeconomic status with skin infections in PWID. Prevention strategies to reduce skin infections should focus on high-risk injection behaviors and improving access to NSP services. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Computerized Dental Injection Fear Treatment

PubMed Central

Heaton, L.J.; Leroux, B.G.; Ruff, P.A.; Coldwell, S.E.

2013-01-01

One in four adults reports a clinically significant fear of dental injections, leading many to avoid dental care. While systematic desensitization is the most common therapeutic method for treating specific phobias such as fear of dental injections, lack of access to trained therapists, as well as dentists’ lack of training and time in providing such a therapy, means that most fearful individuals are not able to receive the therapy needed to be able to receive necessary dental treatment. Computer Assisted Relaxation Learning (CARL) is a self-paced computerized treatment based on systematic desensitization for dental injection fear. This multicenter, block-randomized, dentist-blind, parallel-group study conducted in 8 sites in the United States compared CARL with an informational pamphlet in reducing fear of dental injections. Participants completing CARL reported significantly greater reduction in self-reported general and injection-specific dental anxiety measures compared with control individuals (p < .001). Twice as many CARL participants (35.3%) as controls (17.6%) opted to receive a dental injection after the intervention, although this was not statistically significant. CARL, therefore, led to significant changes in self-reported fear in study participants, but no significant differences in the proportion of participants having a dental injection (ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT00609648). PMID:23690352

Patient's Guide to Aerosol Drug Delivery

MedlinePlus

... nebulizer. Ultrasonic nebulizers should be cleaned and disinfected based on the manu- facturer’s recommendations. Table 12. Cleaning instructions for the jet nebulizer CLEANING AFTER EACH USE Wash your hands before handling equipment. Disassemble parts after every treatment. Remove the tubing ...

Generation of Classical DInSAR and PSI Ground Motion Maps on a Cloud Thematic Platform

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mora, Oscar; Ordoqui, Patrick; Romero, Laia

2016-08-01

This paper presents the experience of ALTAMIRA INFORMATION uploading InSAR (Synthetic Aperture Radar Interferometry) services in the Geohazard Exploitation Platform (GEP), supported by ESA. Two different processing chains are presented jointly with ground motion maps obtained from the cloud computing, one being DIAPASON for classical DInSAR and SPN (Stable Point Network) for PSI (Persistent Scatterer Interferometry) processing. The product obtained from DIAPASON is the interferometric phase related to ground motion (phase fringes from a SAR pair). SPN provides motion data (mean velocity and time series) on high-quality pixels from a stack of SAR images. DIAPASON is already implemented, and SPN is under development to be exploited with historical data coming from ERS-1/2 and ENVISAT satellites, and current acquisitions of SENTINEL-1 in SLC and TOPSAR modes.

Emergence of cocaine and methamphetamine injection among HIV-positive injection drug users in Northern and Western India

PubMed Central

Mehta, Shruti H.; Srikrishnan, Aylur K; Noble, Eva; Vasudevan, Canjeevaram K; Solomon, Suniti; Kumar, M Suresh; Solomon, Sunil S

2014-01-01

Background Little is known regarding the epidemiology of drug injection and risk behaviors among injection drug users (IDUs) across India. In particular, there is limited data on the prevalence of stimulant injection. Methods We sampled 801 HIV positive IDUs from 14 locations throughout India to represent the geography of India as well as the diversity in IDU epidemic stage (established epidemics, emerging epidemics and large cities). All participants underwent a behavioral survey and blood draw. Given prior associations with stimulant injection and HIV risk, we compared stimulant injectors (cocaine and/or methamphetamine) to those who injected opiates and/or pharmaceuticals only. Results The median age was 33; 86% were male. The primary drugs injected were heroin, buprenorphine and other pharmaceuticals. In all but four sites, >50% of those actively injecting reported needle sharing. Stimulant injection was most common in emerging epidemics. Compared to exclusive opiate injectors, stimulant injectors were significantly younger, more likely to be educated and employed, more likely to report non-injection use of heroin, crack/cocaine and amphetamines, heavy alcohol use, recent needle sharing (71% vs. 57%), sex with a casual partner (57% vs. 31%) and men having sex with other men (33% vs. 9%; p<0.01 for all). Conclusions Emerging IDU epidemics have a drug/sexual risk profile not previously been observed in India. Given the high prevalence of stimulant injection in these populations, HIV prevention/treatment programs may need to be redesigned to maximize effectiveness. The high levels of injection sharing overall reinforce the need to ensure access to harm-reduction services for all. PMID:24382362

Correlates of risky injection practices among past-year injection drug users among the US general population.

PubMed

Ropelewski, Lauren R; Mancha, Brent E; Hulbert, Alicia; Rudolph, Abby E; Martins, Silvia S

2011-07-01

With an estimated 1 million active injection drug users (IDUs), injection drug use continues to be a public health concern in the United States. Risky injection practices have been associated with the transmission of HIV, Hepatitis B and C, as well as other skin and soft tissue infections. We used data from 463 respondents, aged 18 and older, who were past-year IDUs in the 2005-2008 National Survey of Drug Use and Health (NSDUH). We investigated correlates of risky injection behavior among these recent IDUs. Older age (≥ 35 versus 18-25) was associated with reusing one's own needle at last injection (aOR=1.80 [1.02-3.17], as were past year heroin (aOR=2.59 [1.18-5.66]) and cocaine injection (aOR=2.17 [1.13-4.15]). Past year crack cocaine use was positively associated with not cleaning needles with bleach (aOR=2.18 [1.10-4.33]). Past year cocaine injection was associated with obtaining needles in a risky manner (aOR=2.29 [1.23-4.25]). Methamphetamine injection was associated with obtaining needles in less risky ways (aOR=0.41 [0.20-0.84]). Our findings indicate that some IDUs are continuing to engage in high risk injection behaviors. The identification of potential at-risk populations of IDUs may have implications for harm reduction interventions and HIV prevention programs. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Cross-border drug injection relationships among injection drug users in Tijuana, Mexico

PubMed Central

Wagner, Karla D.; Pollini, Robin A.; Patterson, Thomas L.; Lozada, Remedios; Ojeda, Victoria D.; Brouwer, Kimberly C.; Vera, Alicia; Volkmann, Tyson A.; Strathdee, Steffanie A.

2010-01-01

Background International borders are unique social and environmental contexts characterized by high levels of mobility. Among drug users, mobility increases risk for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in part through its effects on the social environment. However, the social dynamics of drug users living in border regions are understudied. Methods 1056 injection drug users (IDUs) residing in Tijuana, Mexico were recruited using respondent-driven sampling (RDS) from 2006 to 2007, and underwent surveys and testing for HIV, syphilis, and tuberculosis (TB). Using logistic regression on baseline data, we identified correlates of having ever injected drugs with someone from the US. Results Almost half (48%) reported ever injecting drugs with someone from the US. In RDS-adjusted logistic regression, factors independently associated with having ever injected with someone from the US included: having greater than middle school education (Adjusted Odds Ratio [AOR] 2.91; 95% Confidence Interval [C.I.] 1.52, 5.91), speaking English (AOR 3.24, 95% C.I. 1.96, 5.36), age (AOR 1.10 per year; 95% C.I. 1.07, 1.14), age at initiation of injection drug use (AOR 0.90 per year; 95% C.I. 0.86, 0.94), homelessness (AOR 2.61; 95% C.I. 1.27, 5.39), and having ever been incarcerated (AOR 11.82; 95% C.I., 5.22, 26.77). No associations with HIV, syphilis, TB, drug use, or injection risk behavior were detected. Conclusion Findings suggest that IDU networks in Mexico and the US may transcend international borders, with implications for cross-border transmission of infectious disease. Binational programs and policies need to consider the structure and geographic distribution of drug using networks. PMID:20889270

"Vivo para consumirla y la consumo para vivir" ["I live to inject and inject to live"]: high-risk injection behaviors in Tijuana, Mexico.

PubMed

Strathdee, Steffanie A; Fraga, Wendy Davila; Case, Patricia; Firestone, Michelle; Brouwer, Kimberly C; Perez, Saida Gracia; Magis, Carlos; Fraga, Miguel Angel

2005-09-01

Injection drug use is a growing problem on the US-Mexico border, where Tijuana is situated. We studied the context of injection drug use among injection drug users (IDUs) in Tijuana to help guide future research and interventions. Guided in-depth interviews were conducted with 10 male and 10 female current IDUs in Tijuana. Topics included types of drug used, injection settings, access to sterile needles, and environmental influences. Interviews were taped, transcribed verbatim, and translated. Content analysis was conducted to identify themes. Of the 20 IDUs, median age and age at first injection were 30 and 18. Most reported injecting at least daily: heroin ("carga", "chiva", "negra"), methamphetamine ("crico", "cri-cri"), or both drugs combined. In sharp contrast to Western US cities, almost all regularly attended shooting galleries ("yongos" or "picaderos") because of the difficulties obtaining syringes and police oppression. Almost all shared needles/paraphernalia ["cuete" (syringe), "cacharros" (cookers), cotton from sweaters/socks (filters)]. Some reported obtaining syringes from the United States. Key themes included (1) pharmacies refusing to sell or charging higher prices to IDUs, (2) ample availability of used/rented syringes from "picaderos" (e.g., charging approximately 5 pesos or "10 drops" of drug), and (3) poor HIV/AIDS knowledge, such as beliefs that exposing syringes to air "kills germs." This qualitative study suggests that IDUs in Tijuana are at high risk of HIV and other blood-borne infections. Interventions are urgently needed to expand access to sterile injection equipment and offset the potential for a widespread HIV epidemic.

Effect of the Ethanol Injection Moment During Compression Stroke on the Combustion of Ethanol - Diesel Dual Direct Injection Engine

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liang, Yu; Zhou, Liying; Huang, Haomin; Xu, Mingfei; Guo, Mei; Chen, Xin

2018-01-01

A set of GDI system is installed on a F188 single-cylinder, air-cooled and direct injection diesel engine, which is used for ethanol injection, with the injection time controlled by the crank angle signal collected by AVL angle encoder. The injection of ethanol amounts to half of the thermal equivalent of an original diesel fuel. A 3D combustion model is established for the ethanol - diesel dual direct injection engine. Diesel was injected from the original fuel injection system, with a fuel supply advance angle of 20°CA. The ethanol was injected into the cylinder during compression process. Diesel injection began after the completion of ethanol injection. Ethanol injection starting point of 240°CA, 260°CA, 280°CA, 300°CA and 319.4°CA were simulated and analyzed. Due to the different timing of ethanol injection, the ignition of the ethanol mixture when diesel fires, results in non-uniform ignition distribution and flame propagation rate, since the distribution and concentration gradients of the ethanol mixture in the cylinder are different, thus affecting the combustion process. The results show that, when ethanol is injected at 319.4°CA, the combustion heat release rate and the pressure rise rate during the initial stage are the highest. Also, the maximum combustion pressure, with a relatively advance phase, is the highest. In case of later initial ethanol injection, the average temperature in the cylinder during the initial combustion period will have a faster rise. In case of initial injection at 319.4°CA, the average temperature in the cylinder is the highest, followed by 240°CA ethanol injection. In the post-combustion stage, the earlier ethanol injection will result in higher average temperature in the cylinder and more complete fuel combustion. The injection of ethanol at 319.4°CA produces earlier and highest NOX emissions.

Injection related anxiety in insulin-treated diabetes.

PubMed

Zambanini, A; Newson, R B; Maisey, M; Feher, M D

1999-12-01

The presence of injection related anxiety and phobia may influence compliance, glycaemic control and quality of life in patients with insulin-treated diabetes. Unselected consecutive, insulin-treated patients attending a diabetes clinic for follow-up, completed a standardised questionnaire providing an injection anxiety score (IAS) and general anxiety score (GAS). A total of 115 insulin-treated (80 Type 1 and 35 Type 2) diabetic patients completed the questionnaire. Injections had been avoided secondary to anxiety in 14% of cases and 42% expressed concern at having to inject more frequently. An IAS > or = 3 was seen in 28% of patients and of these, 66% injected insulin one to two times/day, 45% had avoided injections, and 70% would be bothered by more frequent injections. A significant correlation between IAS and GAS was seen (Kendall's tau-a 0.30, 95% CI 0.19-0.41, P < 0.001). GAS was significantly associated with both previous injection avoidance and expressed concern at increased injection frequency. No significant correlation was seen with HbA1c and injection or general anxiety scores. Symptoms relating to insulin injection anxiety and phobia have a high prevalence in an unselected group of diabetic patients requiring insulin injections and are associated with higher levels of general anxiety.

Soft Tissue Injections in the Athlete

PubMed Central

Nepple, Jeffrey J.; Matava, Matthew J.

2009-01-01

Background: Injections into or adjacent to soft tissue structures, including muscle, tendon, bursa, and fascia, for pain relief and an earlier return to play have become common in the field of sports medicine. Study Design: Clinical review. Results: Corticosteroids, local anesthetics, and ketorolac tromethamine (Toradol) are the most commonly used injectable agents in athletes. The use of these injectable agents have proven efficacy in some disorders, whereas the clinical benefit for others remain questionable. All soft tissue injections performed for pain control and/or an anti-inflammatory effect have potentially serious side effects, which must be considered, especially in the pregame setting. Conclusions: The primary concern regarding corticosteroid and local anesthetic injections is an increased risk of tendon rupture associated with the direct injection into the tendon. Intramuscular Toradol injections provide significant analgesia, as well as an anti-inflammatory effect via its inhibitory effect on the cyclooxygenase pathway. The risk of bleeding associated with Toradol use is recognized but not accurately quantified. PMID:23015899

Reductant injection and mixing system

DOEpatents

Reeves, Matt; Henry, Cary A.; Ruth, Michael J.

2016-02-16

A gaseous reductant injection and mixing system is described herein. The system includes an injector for injecting a gaseous reductant into an exhaust gas stream, and a mixer attached to a surface of the injector. The injector includes a plurality of apertures through which the gaseous reductant is injected into an exhaust gas stream. The mixer includes a plurality of fluid deflecting elements.

Premixed direct injection disk

DOEpatents

York, William David; Ziminsky, Willy Steve; Johnson, Thomas Edward; Lacy, Benjamin; Zuo, Baifang; Uhm, Jong Ho

2013-04-23

A fuel/air mixing disk for use in a fuel/air mixing combustor assembly is provided. The disk includes a first face, a second face, and at least one fuel plenum disposed therebetween. A plurality of fuel/air mixing tubes extend through the pre-mixing disk, each mixing tube including an outer tube wall extending axially along a tube axis and in fluid communication with the at least one fuel plenum. At least a portion of the plurality of fuel/air mixing tubes further includes at least one fuel injection hole have a fuel injection hole diameter extending through said outer tube wall, the fuel injection hole having an injection angle relative to the tube axis. The invention provides good fuel air mixing with low combustion generated NOx and low flow pressure loss translating to a high gas turbine efficiency, that is durable, and resistant to flame holding and flash back.

Administration of Injectable Vitamin K Orally.

PubMed

Afanasjeva, Janna

2017-10-01

Background: Vitamin K, or phytonadione, is available in both injectable and oral formulations. Oral vitamin K is available as 5-mg tablets, but the key drawbacks for using vitamin K tablets consist of availability of only 1 dose strength and recent tripling of the product's cost over a 2-year period. An interest exists for utilization of injectable vitamin K via oral route. Method: A literature search was performed on April 26, 2017, to identify any studies describing the use of injectable vitamin K for oral administration. The search involved PubMed and Embase and utilized various combinations of keywords vitamin K , phytonadione , IV , intravenous , injectable , and oral . The results were limited to studies that discussed oral administration of injectable vitamin K. The efficacy of the injectable preparation of vitamin K administered orally was explored in 6 studies and one cost-savings project. Results: Based on the available literature, the administration of injectable vitamin K via oral route is effective and safe. Injectable vitamin K for oral administration can be prepared as an undiluted solution or as a compounded solution. These 2 formulations have different beyond-use dates depending on ingredients used. Conclusion: Information on efficacy and stability of injectable vitamin K formulations prepared for oral administration provides an additional option for health care systems when vitamin K tablets are unavailable or cost-prohibitive to use.

Sequential injection gas guns for accelerating projectiles

DOEpatents

Lacy, Jeffrey M [Idaho Falls, ID; Chu, Henry S [Idaho Falls, ID; Novascone, Stephen R [Idaho Falls, ID

2011-11-15

Gas guns and methods for accelerating projectiles through such gas guns are described. More particularly, gas guns having a first injection port located proximate a breech end of a barrel and a second injection port located longitudinally between the first injection port and a muzzle end of the barrel are described. Additionally, modular gas guns that include a plurality of modules are described, wherein each module may include a barrel segment having one or more longitudinally spaced injection ports. Also, methods of accelerating a projectile through a gas gun, such as injecting a first pressurized gas into a barrel through a first injection port to accelerate the projectile and propel the projectile down the barrel past a second injection port and injecting a second pressurized gas into the barrel through the second injection port after passage of the projectile and to further accelerate the projectile are described.

Fluid injection and induced seismicity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kendall, Michael; Verdon, James

2016-04-01

The link between fluid injection, or extraction, and induced seismicity has been observed in reservoirs for many decades. In fact spatial mapping of low magnitude events is routinely used to estimate a stimulated reservoir volume. However, the link between subsurface fluid injection and larger felt seismicity is less clear and has attracted recent interest with a dramatic increase in earthquakes associated with the disposal of oilfield waste fluids. In a few cases, hydraulic fracturing has also been linked to induced seismicity. Much can be learned from past case-studies of induced seismicity so that we can better understand the risks posed. Here we examine 12 case examples and consider in particular controls on maximum event size, lateral event distributions, and event depths. Our results suggest that injection volume is a better control on maximum magnitude than past, natural seismicity in a region. This might, however, simply reflect the lack of baseline monitoring and/or long-term seismic records in certain regions. To address this in the UK, the British Geological Survey is leading the deployment of monitoring arrays in prospective shale gas areas in Lancashire and Yorkshire. In most cases, seismicity is generally located in close vicinity to the injection site. However, in some cases, the nearest events are up to 5km from the injection point. This gives an indication of the minimum radius of influence of such fluid injection projects. The most distant events are never more than 20km from the injection point, perhaps implying a maximum radius of influence. Some events are located in the target reservoir, but most occur below the injection depth. In fact, most events lie in the crystalline basement underlying the sedimentary rocks. This suggests that induced seismicity may not pose a leakage risk for fluid migration back to the surface, as it does not impact caprock integrity. A useful application for microseismic data is to try and forecast induced seismicity

Associations between injection risk and community disadvantage among suburban injection drug users in southwestern Connecticut, USA.

PubMed

Heimer, Robert; Barbour, Russell; Palacios, Wilson R; Nichols, Lisa G; Grau, Lauretta E

2014-03-01

Increases in drug abuse, injection, and opioid overdoses in suburban communities led us to study injectors residing in suburban communities in southwestern Connecticut, US. We sought to understand the influence of residence on risk and injection-associated diseases. Injectors were recruited by respondent-driven sampling and interviewed about sociodemographics, somatic and mental health, injection risk, and interactions with healthcare, harm reduction, substance abuse treatment, and criminal justice systems. HIV, hepatitis B and C (HBV and HCV) serological testing was also conducted. Our sample was consistent in geographic distribution and age to the general population and to the patterns of heroin-associated overdose deaths in the suburban towns. High rates of interaction with drug abuse treatment and criminal justice systems contrasted with scant use of harm reduction services. The only factors associated with both dependent variables-residence in less disadvantaged census tracts and more injection risk-were younger age and injecting in one's own residence. This contrasts with the common association among urban injectors of injection-associated risk behaviors and residence in disadvantaged communities. Poor social support and moderate/severe depression were associated with risky injection practices (but not residence in specific classes of census tracts), suggesting that a region-wide dual diagnosis approach to the expansion of harm reduction services could be effective at reducing the negative consequences of injection drug use.

Policing behaviors, safe injection self-efficacy, and intervening on injection risks: Moderated mediation results from a randomized trial.

PubMed

Pitpitan, Eileen V; Patterson, Thomas L; Abramovitz, Daniela; Vera, Alicia; Martinez, Gustavo; Staines, Hugo; Strathdee, Steffanie A

2016-01-01

We aim to use conditional or moderated mediation to simultaneously test how and for whom an injection risk intervention was efficacious at reducing receptive needle sharing among female sex workers who inject drugs (FSWs-IDUs) in Mexico. Secondary analysis of data from a randomized trial. A total of 300 FSW-IDUs participated in Mujer Mas Segura in Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, and were randomized to an interactive injection risk intervention or a didactic injection risk intervention. We measured safe injection self-efficacy as the hypothesized mediator and policing behaviors (being arrested and syringe confiscation) as hypothesized moderators. In total, 213 women provided complete data for the current analyses. Conditional (moderated) mediation showed that the intervention affected receptive needle sharing through safe injection self-efficacy among women who experienced syringe confiscation. On average, police syringe confiscation was associated with lower safe injection self-efficacy (p = .04). Among those who experienced syringe confiscation, those who received the interactive (vs. didactic) intervention reported higher self-efficacy, which in turn predicted lower receptive needle sharing (p = .04). Whereas syringe confiscation by the police negatively affected safe injection self-efficacy and ultimately injection risk behavior, our interactive intervention helped to "buffer" this negative impact of police behavior on risky injection practices. The theory-based, active skills building elements included in the interactive condition, which were absent from the didactic condition, helped participants' self-efficacy for safer injection in the face of syringe confiscation. (c) 2015 APA, all rights reserved).

Policing Behaviors, Safe Injection Self-Efficacy, and Intervening on Injection Risks: Moderated Mediation Results from a Randomized Trial

PubMed Central

Pitpitan, Eileen V.; Patterson, Thomas L.; Abramovitz, Daniela; Vera, Alicia; Martinez, Gustavo; Staines, Hugo; Strathdee, Steffanie A.

2015-01-01

Objective We aim to use conditional, or moderated mediation to simultaneously test how and for whom an injection risk intervention was efficacious at reducing receptive needle sharing among female sex workers who inject drugs (FSWs-IDUs) in Mexico. Methods Secondary analysis of data from a randomized trial. A total of 300 FSW-IDUs participated in Mujer Mas Segura in Ciudad Juarez, Mexico and were randomized to an interactive injection risk intervention or a didactic injection risk intervention. We measured safe injection self-efficacy as the hypothesized mediator, and policing behaviors (being arrested and syringe confiscation) as hypothesized moderators. 213 women provided complete data for the current analyses. Results Conditional (moderated) mediation showed that the intervention affected receptive needle sharing through safe injection self-efficacy among women who experienced syringe confiscation. On average, police syringe confiscation was associated with lower safe injection self-efficacy (p = 0.04). Among those who experienced syringe confiscation, those who received the interactive (vs. didactic) intervention reported higher self-efficacy, which in turn predicted lower receptive needle sharing (p = 0.04). Conclusions Whereas syringe confiscation by the police negatively impacted safe injection self-efficacy and ultimately injection risk behavior, our interactive intervention helped to “buffer” this negative impact of police behavior on risky injection practices. The theory-based, active skills building elements included in the interactive condition, which were absent from the didactic condition, helped participants’ self-efficacy for safer injection in the face of syringe confiscation. PMID:26120851

The contribute of DInSAR techniques to landslide hazard evaluation in mountain and hilly regions: a case study from Agno Valley (North-Eastern Italian Alps)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

De Agostini, A.; Floris, M.; Pasquali, P.; Barbieri, M.; Cantone, A.; Riccardi, P.; Stevan, G.; Genevois, R.

2012-04-01

In the last twenty years, Differential Synthetic Aperture Radar Interferometry (DInSAR) techniques have been widely used to investigate geological processes, such as subsidence, earthquakes and landslides, through the evaluation of earth surface displacements caused by these processes. In the study of mass movements, contribution of interferometry can be limited due to the acquisition geometry of RADAR images and the rough morphology of mountain and hilly regions which represent typical landslide-prone areas. In this study, the advanced DInSAR techniques (i.e. Small Baseline Subset and Persistent Scatterers techniques), available in SARscape software, are used. These methods involve the use of multiple acquisitions stacks (large SAR temporal series) allowing improvements and refinements in landslide identification, characterization and hazard evaluation at the basin scale. Potential and limits of above mentioned techniques are outlined and discussed. The study area is the Agno Valley, located in the North-Eastern sector of Italian Alps and included in the Vicenza Province (Veneto Region, Italy). This area and the entire Vicenza Province were hit by an exceptional rainfall event on November 2010 that triggered more than 500 slope instabilities. The main aim of the work is to verify if spatial information available before the rainfall event, including ERS and ENVISAT RADAR data from 1992 to 2010, were able to predict the landslides occurred in the study area, in order to implement an effectiveness forecasting model. In the first step of the work a susceptibility analysis is carried out using landslide dataset from the IFFI project (Inventario Fenomeni Franosi in Italia, Landslide Italian Inventory) and related predisposing factors, which consist of morphometric (elevation, slope, aspect and curvature) and non-morphometric (land use, distance of roads and distance of river) factors available from the Veneto Region spatial database. Then, to test the prediction, the

A Vibration Device to Control Injection Discomfort.

PubMed

Shaefer, Jeffry R; Lee, Stephanie J; Anderson, Nina K

2017-06-01

Pain from local anesthesia injections can be reduced by distraction and counter-stimulation techniques. This study investigated the DentalVibe® Injection Comfort System (third-generation, DV3), developed to lessen anesthesia pain through pulsed vibration, a form of counter-stimulation. The aim of the study was to evaluate both the efficacy of DV3 in reducing pain and discomfort from intraoral long buccal (LB) and inferior alveolar nerve (IAN) injections and the time needed to achieve complete anesthesia during an IAN block. The study enrolled 60 subjects, 30 men and 30 women, aged 21 to 32 years, who rated both injection pain on a visual analog scale and discomfort, unpleasantness, and difficulty in enduring the injection on a modified symptom severity index. Each subject received bilateral LB injections and an IAN block. Using block design, the third-generation DV (DV3) was randomly assigned to either the first or second LB injection and to 30 subjects on their third injection, the IAN block. No topical anesthesia was applied. Subjects receiving DV3 reported significantly less pain, discomfort, unpleasantness, and difficulty in enduring LB and IAN injections (P < .05), regardless of whether DV3 was used on the first or second LB injection. Time to complete anesthesia was not significantly different (P > .05) when DV3 was used on IAN block injections. The DV3 significantly (P < .02) reduced pain/discomfort from anesthetic injections in this pilot study, in which many subjects were either dental or medical students familiar with performing and enduring injections. More studies are warranted on layperson populations.

Health Instruction Packages: Injections.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Dunkleman, Ellie; And Others

Text, illustrations, and exercises are utilized in this set of four learning modules designed to instruct nursing students in techniques and equipment utilized for intramuscular injections. The first module, "Equipment for Intramuscular Injections" by Ellie Dunkleman, presents guidelines for selecting needles of the proper length and…

Budesonide nebulization added to systemic prednisolone in the treatment of acute asthma in children: a double-blind, randomized, controlled trial.

PubMed

Alangari, Abdullah A; Malhis, Nidal; Mubasher, Mohamed; Al-Ghamedi, Najwa; Al-Tannir, Mohamad; Riaz, Muhammad; Umetsu, Dale T; Al-Tamimi, Saleh

2014-04-01

Inhaled corticosteroids, known to be effective as a maintenance medication in chronic asthma, have also been suggested as a therapy for acute asthma when given at high doses. A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial was conducted in children aged 2 to 12 years with moderate or severe acute asthma, as determined based on a clinical score of 5 to 15 points, where 15 is the most severe. We compared the addition of budesonide 1,500 μg vs placebo to standard acute asthma treatment, which included salbutamol, ipratropium bromide, and a single dose of prednisolone 2 mg/kg given at the beginning of therapy. The primary outcome was hospital admission rate within 4 h. A total of 906 ED visits by children with moderate or severe acute asthma were evaluated. Seventy-five cases out of 458 (16.4%) in the budesonide group vs 82 of 448 (18.3%) in the placebo group were admitted (OR, 0.84; 95% CI, 0.58-1.23; P=.38). However, among cases with high baseline clinical score (≥13), significantly fewer children were admitted in the budesonide group (27 of 76 [35.5%]) than in the placebo group (39 of 73 [53.4%]; OR, 0.42; 95% CI, 0.19-0.94; P=.03). The addition of budesonide nebulization did not decrease the admission rate of children with acute asthma overall. However, it may decrease the admission rate of children with severe acute asthma. ClinicalTrials.gov; No.: NCT01524198; URL: www.clinicaltrials.gov

Rapid assessment of injection practices in Cambodia, 2002

PubMed Central

Vong, Sirenda; Perz, Joseph F; Sok, Srun; Som, Seiharath; Goldstein, Susan; Hutin, Yvan; Tulloch, James

2005-01-01

Background Injection overuse and unsafe injection practices facilitate transmission of bloodborne pathogens such as hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Anecdotal reports of unsafe and unnecessary therapeutic injections and the high prevalence of HBV (8.0%), HCV (6.5%), and HIV (2.6%) infection in Cambodia have raised concern over injection safety. To estimate the magnitude and patterns of such practices, a rapid assessment of injection practices was conducted. Methods We surveyed a random sample of the general population in Takeo Province and convenience samples of prescribers and injection providers in Takeo Province and Phnom Penh city regarding injection-related knowledge, attitudes, and practices. Injection providers were observed administering injections. Data were collected using standardized methods adapted from the World Health Organization safe injection assessment guidelines. Results Among the general population sample (n = 500), the overall injection rate was 5.9 injections per person-year, with 40% of participants reporting receipt of ≥ 1 injection during the previous 6 months. Therapeutic injections, intravenous infusions, and immunizations accounted for 74%, 16% and 10% of injections, respectively. The majority (>85%) of injections were received in the private sector. All participants who recalled their last injection reported the injection was administered with a newly opened disposable syringe and needle. Prescribers (n = 60) reported that 47% of the total prescriptions they wrote included a therapeutic injection or infusion. Among injection providers (n = 60), 58% recapped the syringe after use and 13% did not dispose of the used needle and syringe appropriately. Over half (53%) of the providers reported a needlestick injury during the previous 12 months. Ninety percent of prescribers and injection providers were aware HBV, HCV, and HIV were transmitted through unsafe injection practices

Characterization and Application of a Nose-Only Exposure Chamber for Inhalation Delivery of Liposomal Drugs and Nucleic Acids to Mice

PubMed Central

Seshadri, S.; Garbuzenko, O.B.; Han, T.; Wang, Z.; Minko, T.

2013-01-01

Abstract Background A small nose-only exposure chamber was evaluated for inhalation delivery of drug carrier systems (DCSs) to mice for the treatment of lung cancer. The chamber then was used for inhalation delivery of an anticancer drug, antisense oligonucleotides (ASO), and small interfering RNA (siRNA) directly to the cancerous lungs of mice. Methods The uniformity of particle delivery across the ports of the exposure chamber and stability of the DCS (liposomes) during continuous aerosolization by a Collison nebulizer were examined. The mean produced particle size by number was approximately 130 nm, and the mass median diameter was approximately 270 nm. The system was then used to deliver DCS containing doxorubicin (DOX) and ASO or siRNA targeted to multidrug resistance-associated protein 1 (MRP1) mRNA as suppressors of cancer cell resistance. The retention of the drug in the lungs and the effect on tumor size were compared after inhalation delivery and intravenous injection in a nu/nu mouse model of lung cancer. Results The aerosol mass across the four inhalation ports had a coefficient of variation of less than 12%, and approximately 1.4% of the nebulized mass was available for inhalation at each port. The mean size of 130 nm of liposomal DCS did not change significantly during continuous 60-min aerosolization. For inhalation delivery of DCS with DOX+ASO/siRNA, the amount of drugs available for inhalation was lower compared with intravenous injection of DOX; however, the observed lung dose and the retention time were significantly higher. The delivery of DOX+ASO/siRNA via inhalation resulted in tumor volume reduction of more than 90%, whereas only about 40% reduction was achieved after intravenous injection of DOX. Conclusions The investigated exposure system is suitable for inhalation delivery of complex DCS, and its use to deliver DCS containing anticancer drugs and resistance suppressors via inhalation offered a superior method for lung cancer

76 FR 42125 - Underground Injection Control Program; Hazardous Waste Injection Restrictions; Petition for...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-07-18

... Waste Injection Restrictions; Petition for Exemption--Class I Hazardous Waste Injection; ConocoPhillips... no migration petition. SUMMARY: Notice is hereby given that an exemption to the land disposal Restrictions, under the 1984 Hazardous and Solid Waste Amendments to the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act...

[Analysis of inadvertent epidural injection of drugs].

PubMed

Kasaba, T; Uehara, K; Katsuki, H; Ono, Y; Takasaki, M

2000-12-01

We asked 31 anesthesiologists, who were on the Japanese Board of Anesthesiology, about inadvertent injection of drugs into the epidural space, and received answers from 28 (90%). Fifteen (54%) had an experience of inadvertent epidural injection, and five of them had two experiences. Injected drugs were ephedrine (6 times), a mixture of neostigmine and atropine (3), thiopental (2), etilefrine (2), vecuronium (1), suxamethonium (1), bicarbonate (1), midazolam (1), lactated Ringer's solution (1), nicardipine (1), and pentazocine (1). The inadvertent injection of thiopental or bicarbonate was noticed by back pain during injection. No treatment was added after the inadvertent injections, except a patient with an epidural steroid injection following thiopental. No neurological complications were found in any patients.

Two injection digital block versus single subcutaneous palmar injection block for finger lacerations.

PubMed

Okur, O M; Şener, A; Kavakli, H Ş; Çelik, G K; Doğan, N Ö; Içme, F; Günaydin, G P

2017-12-01

We aimed to compare two digital nerve block techniques in patients due to traumatic digital lacerations. This was a randomized-controlled study designed prospectively in the emergency department of a university-based training and research hospital. Randomization was achieved by sealed envelopes. Half of the patients were randomised to traditional (two-injection) digital nerve block technique while single-injection digital nerve block technique was applied to the other half. Score of pain due to anesthetic infiltration and suturing, onset time of total anesthesia, need for an additional rescue injection were the parameters evaluated with both groups. Epinephrin added lidocaine hydrochloride preparation was used for the anesthetic application. Visual analog scale was used for the evaluation of pain scores. Outcomes were compared by using Mann-Whitney U test and Student t-test. Fifty emergency department patients ≥18 years requiring digital nerve block were enrolled in the study. Mean age of the patients was 33 (min-max: 19-86) and 39 (78 %) were male. No statistically significant difference was found between the two groups in terms of our main parameters; anesthesia pain score, suturing pain score, onset time of total anesthesia and rescue injection need. Single injection volar digital nerve block technique is a suitable alternative for digital anesthesias in emergency departments.

Closed-Loop Control of Chemical Injection Rate for a Direct Nozzle Injection System.

PubMed

Cai, Xiang; Walgenbach, Martin; Doerpmond, Malte; Schulze Lammers, Peter; Sun, Yurui

2016-01-20

To realize site-specific and variable-rate application of agricultural pesticides, accurately metering and controlling the chemical injection rate is necessary. This study presents a prototype of a direct nozzle injection system (DNIS) by which chemical concentration transport lag was greatly reduced. In this system, a rapid-reacting solenoid valve (RRV) was utilized for injecting chemicals, driven by a pulse-width modulation (PWM) signal at 100 Hz, so with varying pulse width the chemical injection rate could be adjusted. Meanwhile, a closed-loop control strategy, proportional-integral-derivative (PID) method, was applied for metering and stabilizing the chemical injection rate. In order to measure chemical flow rates and input them into the controller as a feedback in real-time, a thermodynamic flowmeter that was independent of chemical viscosity was used. Laboratory tests were conducted to assess the performance of DNIS and PID control strategy. Due to the nonlinear input-output characteristics of the RRV, a two-phase PID control process obtained better effects as compared with single PID control strategy. Test results also indicated that the set-point chemical flow rate could be achieved within less than 4 s, and the output stability was improved compared to the case without control strategy.

Closed-Loop Control of Chemical Injection Rate for a Direct Nozzle Injection System

PubMed Central

Cai, Xiang; Walgenbach, Martin; Doerpmond, Malte; Schulze Lammers, Peter; Sun, Yurui

2016-01-01

To realize site-specific and variable-rate application of agricultural pesticides, accurately metering and controlling the chemical injection rate is necessary. This study presents a prototype of a direct nozzle injection system (DNIS) by which chemical concentration transport lag was greatly reduced. In this system, a rapid-reacting solenoid valve (RRV) was utilized for injecting chemicals, driven by a pulse-width modulation (PWM) signal at 100 Hz, so with varying pulse width the chemical injection rate could be adjusted. Meanwhile, a closed-loop control strategy, proportional-integral-derivative (PID) method, was applied for metering and stabilizing the chemical injection rate. In order to measure chemical flow rates and input them into the controller as a feedback in real-time, a thermodynamic flowmeter that was independent of chemical viscosity was used. Laboratory tests were conducted to assess the performance of DNIS and PID control strategy. Due to the nonlinear input–output characteristics of the RRV, a two-phase PID control process obtained better effects as compared with single PID control strategy. Test results also indicated that the set-point chemical flow rate could be achieved within less than 4 s, and the output stability was improved compared to the case without control strategy. PMID:26805833

A pooled analysis of injection site-related adverse events in patients with schizophrenia treated with olanzapine long-acting injection.

PubMed

Atkins, Susan; Detke, Holland C; McDonnell, David P; Case, Michael G; Wang, Shufang

2014-01-14

Depot antipsychotic injections are an important tool for the management of patients with schizophrenia who have difficulty with adherence to oral medication. However, pain and discomfort at the injection site can be a potential impediment to the use of these long-acting formulations. We report here the results of a pooled analysis of injection site-related adverse events (AEs) collected during treatment with the olanzapine long-acting injection (olanzapine LAI). Unsolicited injection site-related AEs were pooled from 7 olanzapine LAI clinical trials conducted in patients between March 2001 and December 2010. All patients had a Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition (DSM-IV) or Fourth Edition, Text Revision (DSM-IV-TR) diagnosis of schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder and were between the ages of 18 and 75. Doses ranged from 45 to 405 mg olanzapine LAI, and injection intervals were 2, 3, or 4 weeks. Events were evaluated for severity, timing, possible risk factors, and outcome. A criterion of p < .05 for statistical significance was used for all tests. A total of 1752 patients received at least 1 olanzapine LAI injection. Of these, 92 patients (5.3%) reported at least 1 injection site-related AE, with "pain" being the most common type (2.9%). Most events were mild (81.4%) and the median duration was 3 days. Four patients (0.2%) discontinued due to injection site-related AEs. Dose volume and body mass index did not appear to affect the probability of injection site-related AEs. However, patients who experienced a post-injection delirium/sedation syndrome event (n = 37) were more likely to have or have had an injection site-related AE at some time during the study. Incidence of injection site-related AEs appeared to decrease over time. In 94.2% of the injection site-related AEs, no specific treatment or concomitant medication was reported; in 9 cases, patients received pharmacologic treatment for reaction, mass, abscess, rash, or

Injecting risk behavior among traveling young injection drug users: travel partner and city characteristics.

PubMed

Montgomery, Martha E; Fatch, Robin S; Evans, Jennifer L; Yu, Michelle; Davidson, Peter J; Page, Kimberly; Hahn, Judith A

2013-06-01

Young injection drug users (IDUs), a highly mobile population, engage in high levels of injecting risk behavior, yet little is understood about how such risk behavior may vary by the characteristics of the cities to which they travel, including the existence of a syringe exchange program (SEP), as well as travel partner characteristics. In 2004-2005, we conducted a 6-month prospective study to investigate the risk behavior of 89 young IDUs as they traveled, with detailed information gathered about 350 city visits. In multivariable analyses, travel to larger urban cities with a population of 500,000-1,000,000 was significantly associated with injecting drugs (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 3.71; 95 % confidence interval (CI), 1.56-8.82), ancillary equipment sharing (AES; AOR = 7.05; 95 % CI, 2.25-22.06) and receptive needle sharing (RNS; AOR = 5.73; 95 % CI, 1.11-27.95), as compared with visits to smaller cities with populations below 50,000. Region of the country, and the existence of a SEP within the city visited, were not independently associated with injecting drugs, AES, or RNS during city visits. Traveling with more than one injecting partner was associated with injecting drugs during city visits (AOR = 2.77; 95 % CI, 1.46-5.27), when compared with traveling alone. Additionally, both non-daily and daily/almost daily alcohol use during city visits were associated with AES (AOR = 3.37; 95 % CI, 1.42-7.68; AOR = 3.03; 95 % CI, 1.32-6.97, respectively) as compared with no alcohol consumption. Traveling young IDUs are more likely to inject when traveling with other IDUs and to engage in higher risk injection behavior when they are in large cities. Risk behavior occurring in city visits, including equipment sharing and alcohol consumption, suggests further need for focused interventions to reduce risk for viral infection among this population.

Synergistic effects of Mo and F doping on the quality factor of ZnO thin films prepared by a fully automated home-made nebulizer spray technique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ravichandran, K.; Dineshbabu, N.; Arun, T.; Manivasaham, A.; Sindhuja, E.

2017-01-01

Transparent conducting oxide films of undoped, Mo doped, Mo + F co-doped ZnO were deposited using a facile homemade nebulizer spray pyrolysis technique. The effects of Mo and F doping on the structural, optical, electrical and surface morphological properties were investigated using XRD, UV-vis-NIR spectroscopy, I-V and Hall probe techniques, FESEM and AFM, and XPS, respectively. The XRD analysis confirms that all the films are well crystallized with hexagonal wurtzite structure. All the synthesized samples exhibit high transmittance (above 85%) in the visible region. The current-voltage (I-V) characteristics show the ohmic conduction nature of the films. The Hall probe measurements show that the synergistic effects of Mo and F doping cause desirable improvements in the quality factor of the ZnO films. A minimum resistivity of 5.12 × 10-3 Ω cm with remarkably higher values of mobility and carrier concentration is achieved for Mo (2 at.%) + F (15 at.%) co-doped ZnO films. A considerable variation in the intensity of deep level emission caused by Mo and F doping is observed in the photoluminescence (PL) studies. The presence of the constituent elements in the samples is confirmed by XPS analysis.

78 FR 76294 - Underground Injection Control Program; Hazardous Waste Injection Restrictions; Petition for...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-12-17

... Waste Injection Restrictions; Petition for Exemption--Class I Hazardous Waste Injection; Mosaic... decision on a no migration petition. SUMMARY: Notice is hereby given that an exemption to the land disposal Restrictions, under the 1984 Hazardous and Solid Waste Amendments to the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act...

76 FR 36129 - Underground Injection Control Program; Hazardous Waste Injection Restrictions; Petition for...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-06-21

... Waste Injection Restrictions; Petition for Exemption--Class I Hazardous Waste Injection; ExxonMobil... final decision on a no migration petition. SUMMARY: Notice is hereby given that an exemption to the land disposal Restrictions, under the 1984 Hazardous and Solid Waste Amendments to the Resource Conservation and...

Effects of injection pressure and injection timing to exhaust gas opacity for a conventional indirect diesel engine

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Budiman, Agus; Majid, Akmal Irfan; Pambayun, Nirmala Adhi Yoga; Yuswono, Lilik Chaerul; Sukoco

2016-06-01

In relation to pollution control and environmental friendliness, the quality of exhaust gas from diesel engine needs to be considered. The influences of injection pressure and timing to exhaust gas opacity were investigated. A series of experiments were conducted in a one-cylinder conventional diesel engine with a naturally aspirated system and indirect injection. The default specification of injection pressure was 120 kg/cm2. To investigate the injection pressure, the engine speed was retained on 1000 rpm with pressure variations from 80 to 215 kg/cm2. On the other hand, the various injection timing (8, 10, 12, 16 degrees before TDC point and exact 18 degrees before TDC point) were used to determine their effects to exhaust gas opacity. In this case, the engine speed was varied from 1000 to 2400 rpm. The injector tester was used to measure injection pressure whereas the exhaust gas opacity was determined by the smoke meter. Those data were also statistically analyzed by product moment correlation. As the results, the injection pressure of diesel engine had a non-significant positive correlation to the exhaust gas opacity with r = 0.113 and p > 5 %. Injection pressure should be adjusted to the specification listed on the diesel engine as if it was too high or too low will lead to the higher opacity. Moreover, there was a significant positive correlation between injection timing and the exhaust gas opacity in all engine speeds.

Large decline in injecting drug use in Amsterdam, 1986-1998: explanatory mechanisms and determinants of injecting transitions.

PubMed

van Ameijden, E J; Coutinho, R A

2001-05-01

To study community wide trends in injecting prevalence and trends in injecting transitions, and determinants. Open cohort study with follow up every four months (Amsterdam Cohort Study). Generalised estimating equations were used for statistical analysis. Amsterdam has adopted a harm reduction approach as drug policy. 996 drug users who were recruited from 1986 to 1998, mainly at methadone programmes, who paid 13620 cohort visits. The prevalence of injecting decreased exponentially (66% to 36% in four to six monthly periods). Selective mortality and migration could maximally explain 33% of this decline. Instead, injecting initiation linearly decreased (4.1% to 0.7% per visit), cessation exponentially increased (10.0% to 17.1%), and relapse linearly decreased (21.3% to 11.8%). Non-injecting cocaine use (mainly pre-cooked, comparable to crack) and heroin use strongly increased. Trends were not attributable to changes in the study sample. Harm reduction, including large scale needle exchange programmes, does not lead to an increase in injecting drug use. The injecting decline seems mainly attributable to ecological factors (for example, drug culture and market). Prevention of injecting is possible and peer-based interventions may be effective. The consequences of the recent upsurge in crack use requires further study.

RADIUS OF PRESSURE INFLUENCE OF INJECTION WELLS

EPA Science Inventory

It is often necessary, in injection well design, to predict the probable rate of pressure increase in the injection reservoir that would be expected to result from a proposed injection program. Areas of application include oilfield brine injection, waterflooding for secondary oil...

Anesthetic efficacy of a repeated intraosseous injection given 30 min following an inferior alveolar nerve block/intraosseous injection.

PubMed

Reitz, J; Reader, A; Nist, R; Beck, M; Meyers, W J

1998-01-01

To determine whether a repeated intraosseous (IO) injection would increase or prolong pulpal anesthesia, we measured the degree of anesthesia obtained by a repeated IO injection given 30 min following a combination inferior alveolar nerve block/intraosseous injection (IAN/IO) in mandibular second premolars and in first and second molars. Using a repeated-measures design, we randomly assigned 38 subjects to receive two combinations of injections at two separate appointments. The combinations were an IAN/IO injection followed approximately 30 min later by another IO injection of 0.9 ml of 2% lidocaine with 1:100,000 epinephrine and a combination IAN/IO injection followed approximately 30 min later by a mock IO injection. The second premolar, first molar, and second molar were blindly tested with an Analytic Technology pulp tester at 2-min cycles for 120 min postinjection. Anesthesia was considered successful when two consecutive readings of 80 were obtained. One hundred percent of the subjects had lip numbness with IAN/IO and with IAN/IO plus repeated IO techniques. Rates of anesthetic success for the IAN/IO and for the IAN/IO plus repeated IO injection, respectively, were 100% and 97% for the second premolar, 95% and 95% for the first molar, and 87% and 87% for the second molar. The repeated IO injection increased pulpal anesthesia for approximately 14 min in the second premolar and for 6 min in the first molar, but no statistically significant differences (P > 0.05) were shown. In conclusion, the repeated IO injection of 0.9 ml of 2% lidocaine with 1:100,000 epinephrine given 30 min following a combination IAN/IO injection did not significantly increase pulpal anesthesia in mandibular second premolars or in first and second molars.

New diesel injection nozzle flow measuring device

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Marčič, Milan

2000-04-01

A new measuring device has been developed for diesel injection nozzle testing, allowing measuring of the steady flow through injection nozzle and the injection rate. It can be best applied for measuring the low and high injection rates of the pintle and single hole nozzle. In steady flow measuring the fuel pressure at the inlet of the injection nozzle is 400 bar. The sensor of the measuring device measures the fuel charge, resulting from fuel rubbing in the fuel injection system, as well as from the temperature gradient in the sensor electrode. The electric charge is led to the charge amplifier, where it is converted into electric current and amplified. The amplifier can be used also to measure the mean injection rate value.

Survey of Botulinum Toxin Injections in Anticoagulated Patients: Korean Physiatrists' Preference in Controlling Anticoagulation Profile Prior to Intramuscular Injection.

PubMed

Jang, Yongjun; Park, Geun-Young; Park, Jihye; Choi, Asayeon; Kim, Soo Yeon; Boulias, Chris; Phadke, Chetan P; Ismail, Farooq; Im, Sun

2016-04-01

To evaluate Korean physiatrists' practice of performing intramuscular botulinum toxin injection in anticoagulated patients and to assess their preference in controlling the bleeding risk before injection. As part of an international collaboration survey study, a questionnaire survey was administered to 100 Korean physiatrists. Physiatrists were asked about their level of experience with botulinum toxin injection, the safe international normalized ratio range in anticoagulated patients undergoing injection, their tendency for injecting into deep muscles, and their experience of bleeding complications. International normalized ratio <2.0 was perceived as an ideal range for performing Botulinum toxin injection by 41% of the respondents. Thirty-six respondents replied that the international normalized ratio should be lowered to sub-therapeutic levels before injection, and 18% of the respondents reported that anticoagulants should be intentionally withheld and discontinued prior to injection. In addition, 20%-30% of the respondents answered that they were uncertain whether they should perform the injection regardless of the international normalized ratio values. About 69% of the respondents replied that they did have any standardized protocols for performing botulinum toxin injection in patients using anticoagulants. Only 1 physiatrist replied that he had encountered a case of compartment syndrome. In accordance with the lack of consensus in performing intramuscular botulinum toxin injection in anticoagulated patients, our survey shows a wide range of practices among many Korean physiatrists; they tend to avoid botulinum toxin injection in anticoagulated patients and are uncertain about how to approach these patients. The results of this study emphasize the need for formulating a proper international consensus on botulinum toxin injection management in anticoagulated patients.

Impact de l'utilisation des strategies d'injection multiple et de biodiesel sur un moteur diesel a rampe commune d'injection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Plamondon, Etienne

Using biodiesel/diesel fuel blends and multiple injection strategies in diesel engines have shown promising results in improving the trade-off relationship between nitrous oxides and particulate matters, but their effects are still not completely understood. In this context, this thesis focuses on the characterization of the multiple injection strategies and biodiesel impacts on pollutant emissions, performances and injection system behavior. To reach this goal, an experimental campaign on a diesel engine was performed and a model simulating the injection process was developed. The engine tests at low load with pilot injection allowed the reduction of NOx emissions up to 27% and those of PM up to 22.3% compared to single injection, provided that a precise tuning of the injection parameters was previously realized. This simultaneous reduction is explained by the reduction of the premixed combustion phase and injected fuel quantity during principal injection when a pilot injection is used. With triple injection for the tested engine load, the post-injection did not result in PM reduction since it contributes by itself to the PM production while the preinjection occurred too soon to burn conveniently and caused perturbations in the injection system as well. Using B20 blend in single injection caused a PM increase and a NOx reduction which might be explained by the poorer fuel atomization. However, pilot injection with B20 allowed to get a simultaneous reduction of NOx and PM, as observed with diesel. An injection simulation model was also developed and experimentally validated for different injection pressures as well as different energizing times and dwell times. When comparing the use of biodiesel with diesel, simulation showed that there was a critical energizing time for which both fuels yielded the same injection duration. For shorter energizing times, the biodiesel injection duration was shorter than for diesel, while longer energizing times presented the

Assessment of the safety of injection practices and injection-related procedures in family health units and centers in Alexandria.

PubMed

Elhoseeny, Taghareed A; Mourad, Juidan K

2014-08-01

The Safe Injection Global Network (SIGN) developed an intervention strategy for reducing overuse of injections and promoting the administration of safe injections. Tool C--Revised is designed to assess the safety of the most common procedures that puncture the skin within health services. The aim of the study was to assess injection safety within the primary healthcare facilities in Alexandria using Tool C--Revised. A total of 45 family health units and centers in Alexandria were selected by proportional allocation from the eight regions of Alexandria. The Tool C--Revised of the WHO was used for observation of the entire facility, injection practices and injection-related procedures, and sterilization practices. Interview of different health providers and immediate supervisor of injections was carried out. Indicators that reflect risk included: deficiency of alcohol-based hand rub for cleansing hands (13.3%), compliance with hand wash before preparing a procedure (56.9% before injection practices, 61.3% before phlebotomy, and 67.6% before lancet puncture), and wearing a new pair of gloves before new procedures (48.6% before injection practices, 9.7% for phlebotomy, 11.8% for lancet puncture, and 80% for both intravenous injections and infusions). Enough disposable equipment in all facilities for at least 2 weeks dependent on the statement of the average numbers of procedures per week was shown. Only 38% of the providers had received training regarding injection safety in the last 2 years and 62.5% had completed their three doses of hepatitis B vaccine. Only 42.2% of staffs who handled healthcare waste had access to heavy gloves. Indicators related to injection and injection-related practices that reflect risk to patients include deficiency of alcohol-based hand rub tools, nonadherence to hand hygiene before preparing an injection, and inadequate adherence to using a clean barrier when opening a glass ampule and use of gloves. Indicators that may reflect risk to

Ciprofloxacin Injection

MedlinePlus

... of caffeine-containing products such as coffee, tea, energy drinks, cola, or chocolate. Ciprofloxacin injection may increase nervousness, sleeplessness, heart pounding, and anxiety caused by caffeine.Make ...

Electrokinetic injection techniques in microfluidic chips.

PubMed

Fu, L M; Yang, R J; Lee, G B; Liu, H H

2002-10-01

The separation efficiency of a microfluidic chip is influenced to a significant degree by the flow field conditions within the injection microchannel. Therefore, an understanding of the physics of the flow within this channel is beneficial in the design and operation of such a system. The configuration of an injection system is determined by the volume of the sample plug that is to be delivered to the separation process. Accordingly, this paper addresses the design and testing of injection systems with a variety of configurations, including a simple cross, a double-T, and a triple-T configuration. This paper also presents the design of a unique multi-T injection configuration. Each injection system cycles through a predetermined series of steps, in which the electric field magnitude and distribution within the various channels is strictly manipulated, to effectuate a virtual valve. The uniquemulti-T configuration injection system presented within this paper has the ability to simulate the functions of the cross, double-T, and triple-T systems through appropriate manipulations of the electric field within its various channels. In other words, the proposed design successfully combines several conventional injection systems within a single microfluidic chip.

La dinámica demográfica y la desigualdad educativa en Méxicoa

PubMed Central

Giorguli Saucedo, Silvia E.; Vargas Valle, Eunice D.; Ulloa, Viviana Salinas; Hubert, Celia; Potter, Joseph E.

2015-01-01

En este trabajo se presenta una investigación sobre el vínculo entre los procesos educativos y la dinámica demográfica en México. La tradición del pensamiento sobre población y desarrollo ha partido de la hipótesis de que el ritmo de crecimiento poblacional, el tamaño de las familias y la migración influyen sobre la acumulación de capital humano entre la población en edades escolares. Se explora aquí la relación del desempeño educativo de los jóvenes entre 14 y 23 años y la razón de dependencia juvenil, la fecundidad adolescente y la migración interna e internacional; para ello se utilizan datos agregados a escala municipal del año 2000. El análisis incluye indicadores de la oferta educativa municipal basados en estadísticas administrativas de la SEP. PMID:26146427

Side effects of corticosteroid injections: what's new?

PubMed

Berthelot, Jean-Marie; Le Goff, Benoît; Maugars, Yves

2013-07-01

The risk of sepsis with a hip or knee implant does not seem to be increased by prior joint injections, as long as the injection and surgery are separated by at least two months. Calcifications have been reported after intradiscal injection in the coccygeal region for coccydynia. Complete rest for 24 hours after injection of triamcinolone hexacetonide into the knee had no effect on systemic diffusion of the product. Patients infected by HIV who are treated with ritonavir are at much greater risk for Cushing syndrome after epidural injection. Problems with menstruation after corticosteroid injection seem to be related to a transient decrease in estradiol levels, without alterations in FSH and LH levels. The risk of central serous chorioretinopathy and acute necrosis of the retina after injection is not known, even by ophthalmologists. Transient dysphonia occurs in 12% of patients receiving corticosteroid injections. The impressive Tachon's syndrome seems to be the venous counterpart to Nicolau's syndrome for arteries. Injections into C1-C2 should be abandoned because of the neurological risks. Since serious neurological events after foraminal injections could be the result of an overly fast injection into the arterialized radicular veins rather than in the arteries, only slow injections with products having a low risk of embolism or vascular complications should be allowed. Dexamethasone-based preparations seem to contain no particles or crystals, and have not induced any neurological accidents in various animal models, even after direct administration into vertebral or carotid arteries. Copyright © 2012 Société française de rhumatologie. Published by Elsevier SAS. All rights reserved.

Injection-induced earthquakes

USGS Publications Warehouse

Ellsworth, William L.

2013-01-01

Earthquakes in unusual locations have become an important topic of discussion in both North America and Europe, owing to the concern that industrial activity could cause damaging earthquakes. It has long been understood that earthquakes can be induced by impoundment of reservoirs, surface and underground mining, withdrawal of fluids and gas from the subsurface, and injection of fluids into underground formations. Injection-induced earthquakes have, in particular, become a focus of discussion as the application of hydraulic fracturing to tight shale formations is enabling the production of oil and gas from previously unproductive formations. Earthquakes can be induced as part of the process to stimulate the production from tight shale formations, or by disposal of wastewater associated with stimulation and production. Here, I review recent seismic activity that may be associated with industrial activity, with a focus on the disposal of wastewater by injection in deep wells; assess the scientific understanding of induced earthquakes; and discuss the key scientific challenges to be met for assessing this hazard.

[Certified quality management according to DIN ISO 9001 in a radiology department at a university hospital: measurable changes in academic quality indicators?].

PubMed

Lorenzen, J; Habermann, C; Utler, C; Grzyska, U; Weber, C; Adam, G; Koops, A

2009-10-01

To evaluate the changes in academic quality indicators after implementation of a quality management system according to DIN ISO 9001:2000. After implementation and certification of a quality management system, the actual state based on quality indicators from the fields of student teaching, research, continuing education and the satisfaction of referring physician was determined. After implementation of an action plan for the individual areas, the temporal changes in the ratios were documented in the follow-up. The evaluation of teaching performance obtained by questionnaire among the students of the radiology course showed a steady increase in satisfaction (mean value 2003: 2.7; 2007: 3.9). In the field of research an increase in scientific output was achieved based on the number of an internal publication score (2002: 99 points; 2006: 509). Repeated opinion surveys among our referring physicians found improvements in indicators for the appointment of investigations, consulting service and waiting times for the investigation, while the waiting times for internal transport service did not improve. Exemplary measurements of the success of the advanced training of the staff demonstrated the need for continuing education for quality improvement. The evaluation of quality indicators showed over time a measurable positive impact on processes of a radiological University Hospital after implementation of a QM system according to DIN ISO 9001:2000. Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart-New York.

Staged direct injection diesel engine

DOEpatents

Baker, Quentin A.

1985-01-01

A diesel engine having staged injection for using lower cetane number fuels than No. 2 diesel fuel. The engine includes a main fuel injector and a pilot fuel injector. Pilot and main fuel may be the same fuel. The pilot injector injects from five to fifteen percent of the total fuel at timings from 20.degree. to 180.degree. BTDC depending upon the quantity of pilot fuel injected, the fuel cetane number and speed and load. The pilot fuel injector is directed toward the centerline of the diesel cylinder and at an angle toward the top of the piston, avoiding the walls of the cylinder. Stratification of the early injected pilot fuel is needed to reduce the fuel-air mixing rate, prevent loss of pilot fuel to quench zones, and keep the fuel-air mixture from becoming too fuel lean to become effective. In one embodiment, the pilot fuel injector includes a single hole for injection of the fuel and is directed at approximately 48.degree. below the head of the cylinder.

Multipoint Fuel Injection Arrangements

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Prociw, Lev Alexander (Inventor)

2017-01-01

A multipoint fuel injection system includes a plurality of fuel manifolds. Each manifold is in fluid communication with a plurality of injectors arranged circumferentially about a longitudinal axis for multipoint fuel injection. The injectors of separate respective manifolds are spaced radially apart from one another for separate radial staging of fuel flow to each respective manifold.

Gas injected vacuum switch

DOEpatents

Hardin, K. Dan

1977-01-01

The disclosure relates to a gas injected vacuum switch comprising a housing having an interior chamber, a conduit for evacuating the interior chamber, within the chamber an anode and a cathode spaced from the anode, and a detonator for injecting electrically conductive gas into the chamber between the anode and the cathode to provide a current path therebetween.

Penicillin G (Potassium, Sodium) Injection

MedlinePlus

Penicillin G injection is used to treat and prevent certain infections caused by bacteria. Penicillin G injection is in a class of medications called penicillins. It works by killing bacteria that cause infections. ...

Botulinum toxin injection in laryngeal dyspnea.

PubMed

Woisard, Virginie; Liu, Xuelai; Bes, Marie Christine Arné; Simonetta-Moreau, Marion

2017-02-01

Data, regarding the use of botulinum toxin (BT-A) in laryngeal dyspnea, are scarce, coming from some cases reports in the literature, including Vocal fold paralysis, laryngeal dystonia, vocal cord dysfunction also called paradoxical motion of the vocal fold (PMVF), and post-neuroleptic laryngeal dyskinesia. There is no consensus regarding the muscles and the doses to inject. The aim of this study is to present a retrospective review of patients treated in our ENT Department by BT-A injection in this indication. This study is a retrospective study describing patients who underwent an injection of botulinum toxin for laryngeal dyspnea in the ENT Department from 2005 to 2015 years. The inclusion criteria were a dyspnea associated with a laryngeal dysfunction, confirmed by flexible fiberoptic nasopharyngolaryngoscopy. Information concerning the causes of the dyspnea, the botulinum toxin BT-A injections procedure, post-injection follow-up, and respiratory outcome were collected for all patients included. In the group of 13 patients included, the main cause identified as principal factor linked with the short breath was: a bilateral VF paralysis (Patel et al., Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg 130:686-689, 7), laryngeal dystonia (Balkissoon and Kenn, Semin Respir Crit Care Med 33:595-605, 2), Anxiety syndrome associated with unilateral vocal fold paralysis or asthma (Marcinow et al., Laryngoscope 124:1425-1430, 3), and an isolated asthma (Zwirner et al., Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol 254:242-245, 1). Nine out of the thirteen patients were improved by the injections. A BT-A-induced stable benefit for four patients led them to stop the injections in the follow-up. Good outcome was observed in five other patients (main cause: bilateral VP paralysis), allowing a progressive lengthening of the delay between BT-A injections. Four patients did not report a positive risk/benefit ratio after BT-A injections; two of them (with bilateral VF paralysis), because of respiratory side effects and

Maximum magnitude earthquakes induced by fluid injection

USGS Publications Warehouse

McGarr, Arthur F.

2014-01-01

Analysis of numerous case histories of earthquake sequences induced by fluid injection at depth reveals that the maximum magnitude appears to be limited according to the total volume of fluid injected. Similarly, the maximum seismic moment seems to have an upper bound proportional to the total volume of injected fluid. Activities involving fluid injection include (1) hydraulic fracturing of shale formations or coal seams to extract gas and oil, (2) disposal of wastewater from these gas and oil activities by injection into deep aquifers, and (3) the development of enhanced geothermal systems by injecting water into hot, low-permeability rock. Of these three operations, wastewater disposal is observed to be associated with the largest earthquakes, with maximum magnitudes sometimes exceeding 5. To estimate the maximum earthquake that could be induced by a given fluid injection project, the rock mass is assumed to be fully saturated, brittle, to respond to injection with a sequence of earthquakes localized to the region weakened by the pore pressure increase of the injection operation and to have a Gutenberg-Richter magnitude distribution with a b value of 1. If these assumptions correctly describe the circumstances of the largest earthquake, then the maximum seismic moment is limited to the volume of injected liquid times the modulus of rigidity. Observations from the available case histories of earthquakes induced by fluid injection are consistent with this bound on seismic moment. In view of the uncertainties in this analysis, however, this should not be regarded as an absolute physical limit.

Comparison Between the Two-Injection Technique and the Four-Injection Technique in Axillary Brachial Plexus Block with Articaine.

PubMed

Ertikin, Aysun; Argun, Güldeniz; Mısırlıoğlu, Mesut; Aydın, Murat; Arıkan, Murat; Kadıoğulları, Nihal

2017-10-01

In this study, we aimed to compare axillary brachial plexus block using the two-injection and four-injection techniques assisted with ultrasonography (USG) and nerve stimulator in patients operated for carpal tunnel syndrome with articaine. To evaluate which technique is more effective, we compared the onset time, effectiveness, and duration of block procedures, patient satisfaction, adverse effect of the drug, and complication rates of the motor and sensory blocks. Sixty patients were randomly divided into two groups. A mixture of physiologic serum added to articain with NaHCO 3 (30 mL) was injected into the patients' axilla in both the groups. After the blockage of the musculocutaneous nerve in both the groups, the median nerve in the two-injection group and the median nerve, ulnar nerve, and radial nerve in the four-injection group were blocked. In brachial plexus nerves, sensorial blockage was evaluated with pinprick test, and motor block was evaluated by contraction of the muscles innervated by each nerve. The adverse effects and complications, visual analog scale (VAS) values during the operation, and post-operative patient satisfaction were recorded. Sufficient analgesia and anaesthesia were achieved with no need for an additional local anaesthetics in both the groups. Furthermore, additional sedation requirements were found to be similar in both the groups. A faster rate and a more effective complete block were achieved in more patients from the four-injection group. In the two-injection group, the block could not be achieved for N. radialis in one patient. All other nerves were successfully blocked. Whereas the blockage procedure lasted longer in the four-injection group, the VAS values recorded during the blockage procedure were higher in the four-injection group. No statistical difference was found with regard to patient satisfaction, and no adverse effects and complications were observed in any group. Although the multi-injection method takes more time

[On the history of injection].

PubMed

Norn, Svend; Kruse, Poul R; Kruse, Edith

2006-01-01

Although the effect of snake bites and poisoned arrows was known from ancient time, the development of the syringe and the needle lasted several centuries. Forms of intravenous injection and infusion are clearly documented in the 1650s. Sir Christopher Wren used a syringe made of animal bladder fixed to a goose quill to inject wine and opium into the veins of dogs. J.D. Major from Kiel and J.S. Elsholtz from Berlin probably were the first to deliberately administer intravenous injections to people in the 1660s. However, these early injections were not successful and injections did not come into fashion again until the latter part of the 1800s. Forerunners of subcutaneous administration were either the introduction of the drug under the epidermis by means of a vaccination-lancet or the application of a vesicant to remove the epidermis, after which the drug was applied to the denuded cutis. Lafargue, Lembert and Lesieur described these methods in the first half of the 1800s, and the methods continued to be of use in the second part of the century until the advent of subcutaneous injection. Alexander Wood of Edinburgh and Charles-Gabriel Pravaz from Lyon are known commonly as the inventors of the syringe for subcutaneous injection, but other pioneers such as Taylor, Washington and Rynd had already begun this form of administration. Increased use, safety and accuracy were accomplished by the progressive steps introduced by Wood, Pravaz and Luer. Thus, the syringe of Luer was fitted for aseptic heating, and a sharp needle readily perforated the skin. Sterilization by heating in an autoclave was developed by Pasteur, Chamberland and Koch, after managing aseptic conditions by the addition of preservatives such as carbolic acid. A safe method for the storage of sterile injectates was provided by Limousin's ampoule from 1886, and later by the introduction of multi-dose containers. The evolution of the syringe and its needle continues with the introduction of transdermal