Crystal and cryoEM structural studies of a cell wall degrading enzyme in the bacteriophage [psi]29 tail

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

Xiang, Ye; Morais, Marc C.; Cohen, Daniel N.

2009-08-28

The small bacteriophage {phi}29 must penetrate the {approx}250-{angstrom} thick external peptidoglycan cell wall and cell membrane of the Gram-positive Bacillus subtilis, before ejecting its dsDNA genome through its tail into the bacterial cytoplasm. The tail of bacteriophage {phi}29 is noncontractile and {approx}380 {angstrom} long. A 1.8-{angstrom} resolution crystal structure of gene product 13 (gp13) shows that this tail protein has spatially well separated N- and C-terminal domains, whose structures resemble lysozyme-like enzymes and metallo-endopeptidases, respectively. CryoEM reconstructions of the WT bacteriophage and mutant bacteriophages missing some or most of gp13 shows that this enzyme is located at the distal endmore » of the {phi}29 tail knob. This finding suggests that gp13 functions as a tail-associated, peptidoglycan-degrading enzyme able to cleave both the polysaccharide backbone and peptide cross-links of the peptidoglycan cell wall. Comparisons of the gp13{sup -} mutants with the {phi}29 mature and emptied phage structures suggest the sequence of events that occur during the penetration of the tail through the peptidoglycan layer.« less

[Design and application of silver needle-knife].

PubMed

Sun, Guodong; Shi, Bin; Zhang, Benwu; Xu, Haidong

2015-04-01

A silver needle-knife which has the dual function of silver needle and needle-knife is designed. The main components of this silver needle-knife are approximately 50% silver and approximately 50% nichrome. The silver needle-knife is composed of five parts, including needle-knife tail, spiral handle; steering handle, needle-knife body and needle-knife edge. It converges the advantages of needle-knife and silver needle, which can cut loose of diseased tissue and peel adhesion of lesions, but also be heated with moxa cone and thermal therapeutic instrument, and connect with electroacupuncture apparatus. It has the function of warming channel and removing coldness, dispelling wind and eliminating dampness, resolving spasm and relieving pain, dredging the channel and so on. Due to the spiral handle and the steering handle, the operation is easier, which reduces the blindness of cutting and increase the safety. It is mainly used for soft tissue injury, rheumatism and rheumatoid arthritis, as well as degenerative diseases of spine and joint, and it has obvious efficacy on some internal medical diseases.

Characterization of tail sheath protein of giant bacteriophage phiKZ Pseudomonas aeruginosa

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

Kurochkina, Lidia P., E-mail: lpk@ibch.r; Aksyuk, Anastasia A.; Sachkova, Maria Yu.

2009-12-20

The tail sheath protein of giant bacteriophage phiKZ Pseudomonas aeruginosa encoded by gene 29 was identified and its expression system was developed. Localization of the protein on the virion was confirmed by immunoelectron microscopy. Properties of gene product (gp) 29 were studied by electron microscopy, immunoblotting and limited trypsinolysis. Recombinant gp29 assembles into the regular tubular structures (polysheaths) of variable length. Trypsin digestion of gp29 within polysheaths or extended sheath of virion results in specific cleavage of the peptide bond between Arg135 and Asp136. However, this cleavage does not affect polymeric structure of polysheaths, sheaths and viral infectivity. Digestion bymore » trypsin of the C-truncated gp29 mutant, lacking the ability to self-assemble, results in formation of a stable protease-resistant fragment. Although there is no sequence homology of phiKZ proteins to proteins of other bacteriophages, some characteristic biochemical properties of gp29 revealed similarities to the tail sheath protein of bacteriophage T4.« less

Control of Bacteriophage T4 Tail Lysozyme Activity During the Infection Process

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

Kanamaru, Shuji; Ishiwata, Yasutaka; Suzuki, Toshiharu

2010-07-19

Bacteriophage T4 has an efficient mechanism for injecting the host Escherichia coli cell with genomic DNA. Its gene product 5 (gp5) has a needle-like structure attached to the end of a tube through which the DNA passes on its way out of the head and into the host. The gp5 needle punctures the outer cell membrane and then digests the peptidoglycan cell wall in the periplasmic space. gp5 is normally post-translationally cleaved between residues 351 and 352. The function of this process in controlling the lysozyme activity of gp5 has now been investigated. When gp5 is over-expressed in E. coli,more » two mutants (S351H and S351A) showed a reduction of cleavage products and five other mutants (S351L, S351K, S351Y, S351Q, and S351T) showed no cleavage. Furthermore, in a complementation assay at 20 C, the mutants that had no cleavage of gp5 produced a reduced number of plaques compared to wild-type T4. The crystal structure of the non-cleavage phenotype mutant of gp5, S351L, complexed with gene product 27, showed that the 18 residues in the vicinity of the potential cleavage site (disordered in the wild-type structure) had visible electron density. The polypeptide around the potential cleavage site is exposed, thus allowing access for an E. coli protease. The lysozyme activity is inhibited in the wild-type structure by a loop from the adjacent gp5 monomer that binds into the substrate-binding site. The same inhibition is apparent in the mutant structure, showing that the lysozyme is inhibited before gp5 is cleaved and, presumably, the lysozyme is activated only after gp5 has penetrated the outer membrane.« less

Novel Small Molecules Disabling the IL-6/IL-6R/GP130 Heterohexamer Complex

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-10-01

fluctuations over 20 ns MD simulation. The HFI unit of MDL-A showed instability in the gp130 D1-domain binding pocket, whereas the hydrophobic tail...compound containing only an HFI unit was not capable of inhibiting gp130 homodimerization. Our MDLs MD simulation studies showed consistent results...chain attached to the HFI unit which is designed to take advantage of interactions with the “additional” subpockets surrounding the MDL-A binding site

An Automated Mouse Tail Vascular Access System by Vision and Pressure Feedback.

PubMed

Chang, Yen-Chi; Berry-Pusey, Brittany; Yasin, Rashid; Vu, Nam; Maraglia, Brandon; Chatziioannou, Arion X; Tsao, Tsu-Chin

2015-08-01

This paper develops an automated vascular access system (A-VAS) with novel vision-based vein and needle detection methods and real-time pressure feedback for murine drug delivery. Mouse tail vein injection is a routine but critical step for preclinical imaging applications. Due to the small vein diameter and external disturbances such as tail hair, pigmentation, and scales, identifying vein location is difficult and manual injections usually result in poor repeatability. To improve the injection accuracy, consistency, safety, and processing time, A-VAS was developed to overcome difficulties in vein detection noise rejection, robustness in needle tracking, and visual servoing integration with the mechatronics system.

Does a child's fear of needles decrease through a learning event with needles?

PubMed

Kajikawa, Natsuki; Maeno, Takami; Maeno, Tetsuhiro

2014-09-01

Most children have a fear of needles. Suitable preparation can decrease the pain and fear of needles in hospitals; however, few have examined how such preparation affects healthy children. This study examined whether learning with needles decreases fear of needles and changes motivation to get vaccinations in school-age children and the possible association between fear of needles and motivation toward vaccinations. This study included children participating in the "Let's Be Doctors" event, which was held in 4 child centers in Tsukuba city, Ibaraki, Japan. In this event, children learned about injections and how a vaccine works, and injected a vaccine (water) into skin (sponge) using a real syringe and imitation needle. Data were collected just before and after the event by anonymous self-assessment questionnaires that used a 4-point Likert scale to assess fear of needles, motivation to get vaccinations, recommendation of vaccinations, and fear toward doctors among the children. Answers were divided into two categories for statistical analysis. In total, 194 children participated in the event and 191 children answered the questionnaire (response rate 98.5%). We analyzed 180 subjects, comprising 79 boys (43.9%) and 94 girls (52.2%), mean age of 8.1 ± 1.0 years. The number of children reporting a fear of needles decreased from 69 (38.3%) before the event to 51 (28.3%) after the event, and those unwilling to get vaccinations decreased from 48 (26.7%) to 27 (15.0%). Children who reported fear of needles before the event were more unwilling to get vaccinations than those with no fear of needles (36 [52.2%] vs. 12 [10.8%]), while after the event the number of needle-fearing children unwilling to get vaccinations decreased to 19 (27.5%). Children's fear of needles and unwillingness to get vaccinations were decreased after experiencing a learning event with needles. The fear of needles is associated with a negative motivation to get vaccinations in children.

Dietary quality, fecal nitrogen and 2,6 diaminopimelic acid in black-tailed deer in northern California

Treesearch

John G. Kie; Timothy S. Burton

1984-01-01

Range managers need easily measured indices of dietary quality to ensure high quality forage for deer. Levels of fecal nitrogen and fecal 2,6 diaminopimelic acid, which have been suggested as such indices, were monitored for two herds of black-tailed deer (Odocoileus hemionus columbianus) in northern California. Both values were highest in summer...

[The effect of needle type and immobilization on postspinal headache].

PubMed

Hafer, J; Rupp, D; Wollbrück, M; Engel, J; Hempelmann, G

1997-10-01

Post-dural puncture headache (PDPH) is a significant complication of spinal anaesthesia. Diameter and tip of the needle as well as the patient's age have been proven to be important determinants. The question of whether post-operative recumbency can reduce the risk of PDPH has not been answered uniformly. And besides, some studies referring to this subject reveal methodical failures, for example, as to clear definition and exact documentation of post-operative immobilization. Furthermore, fine-gauge needles (26G or more) have not been investigated yet. The first aim of our study was therefore to examine the role of recumbency in the prevention of PDPH under controlled conditions using thin needles. Secondly, we wanted to confirm the reported prophylactic effect of needles with a modified, atraumatic tip (Whitacre and Atraucan) by comparing them to Quincke needles of identical diameter. Most of the former investigators compared Quincke with atraumatic needles of different size regardless of the known influence of the diameter on PDPH. In a prospective study we included 481 consecutive patients undergoing a total of 500 orthopaedic operations under spinal anaesthesia. The latter was performed in a standardized manner (patient sitting, midline approach, needle with parallel bevel direction), using four different needles allocated randomly (26-gauge and 27-gauge needles with Quincke tip, 26-gauge Atraucan and 27-gauge Whitacre cannula). Half of the patients were instructed to stay in bed for 24 h (horizontal position without raising head), the others to get up as early as possible. An anaesthesiologist visited the patients on the fourth postoperative day or later and questioned them about headache and duration of recumbency. Additionally, the patients had to fill out a questionnaire 1 week after surgery. Any postural headache was considered as PDPH. The four groups of different needles had homogeneous demographic characteristics (see Table 1). A total of 47 patients (9

Structures of Ebola virus GP and sGP in complex with therapeutic antibodies.

PubMed

Pallesen, Jesper; Murin, Charles D; de Val, Natalia; Cottrell, Christopher A; Hastie, Kathryn M; Turner, Hannah L; Fusco, Marnie L; Flyak, Andrew I; Zeitlin, Larry; Crowe, James E; Andersen, Kristian G; Saphire, Erica Ollmann; Ward, Andrew B

2016-08-08

The Ebola virus (EBOV) GP gene encodes two glycoproteins. The major product is a soluble, dimeric glycoprotein (sGP) that is secreted abundantly. Despite the abundance of sGP during infection, little is known regarding its structure or functional role. A minor product, resulting from transcriptional editing, is the transmembrane-anchored, trimeric viral surface glycoprotein (GP). GP mediates attachment to and entry into host cells, and is the intended target of antibody therapeutics. Because large portions of sequence are shared between GP and sGP, it has been hypothesized that sGP may potentially subvert the immune response or may contribute to pathogenicity. In this study, we present cryo-electron microscopy structures of GP and sGP in complex with GP-specific and GP/sGP cross-reactive antibodies undergoing human clinical trials. The structure of the sGP dimer presented here, in complex with both an sGP-specific antibody and a GP/sGP cross-reactive antibody, permits us to unambiguously assign the oligomeric arrangement of sGP and compare its structure and epitope presentation to those of GP. We also provide biophysical evaluation of naturally occurring GP/sGP mutations that fall within the footprints identified by our high-resolution structures. Taken together, our data provide a detailed and more complete picture of the accessible Ebolavirus glycoprotein landscape and a structural basis to evaluate patient and vaccine antibody responses towards differently structured products of the GP gene.

TssA forms a gp6-like ring attached to the type VI secretion sheath.

PubMed

Planamente, Sara; Salih, Osman; Manoli, Eleni; Albesa-Jové, David; Freemont, Paul S; Filloux, Alain

2016-08-01

The type VI secretion system (T6SS) is a supra-molecular bacterial complex that resembles phage tails. It is a killing machine which fires toxins into target cells upon contraction of its TssBC sheath. Here, we show that TssA1 is a T6SS component forming dodecameric ring structures whose dimensions match those of the TssBC sheath and which can accommodate the inner Hcp tube. The TssA1 ring complex binds the T6SS sheath and impacts its behaviour in vivo In the phage, the first disc of the gp18 sheath sits on a baseplate wherein gp6 is a dodecameric ring. We found remarkable sequence and structural similarities between TssA1 and gp6 C-termini, and propose that TssA1 could be a baseplate component of the T6SS Furthermore, we identified similarities between TssK1 and gp8, the former interacting with TssA1 while the latter is found in the outer radius of the gp6 ring. These observations, combined with similarities between TssF and gp6N-terminus or TssG and gp53, lead us to propose a comparative model between the phage baseplate and the T6SS. © 2016 The Authors. Published under the terms of the CC BY 4.0 license.

Metal(loid) allocation and nutrient retranslocation in Pinus halepensis trees growing on semiarid mine tailings.

PubMed

Parraga-Aguado, Isabel; Querejeta, Jose-Ignacio; González-Alcaraz, María Nazaret; Conesa, Hector M

2014-07-01

The goal of this study was to evaluate internal metal(loid) cycling and the risk of metal(loid) accumulation in litter from Pinus halepensis trees growing at a mine tailing disposal site in semiarid Southeast Spain. Internal nutrient retranslocation was also evaluated in order to gain insight into the ability of pine trees to cope with the low-fertility soil conditions at the tailings. We measured metal(loid) concentrations in the foliage (young and old needles), woody stems and fresh leaf litter of pine trees growing on tailings. The nutrient status and stable isotope composition of pine foliage (δ(13)C, δ(15)N, δ(18)O as indicators of photosynthesis and water use efficiency) were also analyzed. Tailing soil properties in vegetation patches and in adjacent bare soil patches were characterized as well. Significant amounts of metal(loid)s such us Cd, Cu, Pb and Sb were immobilized in the woody stems of Pinus halepensis trees growing on tailings. Leaf litterfall showed high concentrations of As, Cd, Sb, Pb and Zn, which thereby return to the soil. However, water extractable metal(loid) concentrations in tailing soils were similar between vegetation patches (mineral soil under the litter layer) and bare soil patches. The pines growing on mine tailings showed very low foliar P concentrations in all leaf age classes, which suggests severe P deficiency. Young (current year) needles showed lower accumulation of metal(loid)s, higher nutrient concentrations (P and K), and higher water use efficiency (as indicated by and δ(13)C and δ(18)O data) than older needles. Substantial nutrient resorption occurred before leaf litterfall, with 46% retranslocation efficiency for P and 89% for K. In conclusion, phytostabilization of semiarid mine tailings with Pinus halepensis is feasible but would require careful monitoring of the trace elements released from litterfall, in order to assess the long term risk of metal(loid) transfer to the food chain. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B

[Our experience using "Huber Plus" needles in our infusion center].

PubMed

Tazumi, Keiko; Kouji, Keiko; Matsumura, Natsuko; Nabetani, Yoshiko; Kondo, Motoi; Tomono, Kazunori; Mizuki, Masao

2008-01-01

We conducted a pilot trial to compare the operability and safety of two huber needles in the infusion center. In the present study, we used huber needles without the safety cover and one huber needle with the safety cover (Huber Plus(R)). Both huber needles were used nine times. The successful puncture rate of the first time puncture and the incidence of needle accidents with both huber needles were 100% and 0%, respectively. The evaluation of pain and uneasiness by VAS (Visual Analogue scale)revealed the superiority of the safety needle over the than non-safety needle(pain: 3.8 vs 2.6, uneasiness: 3.7 vs 0.5). To our knowledge, this is the first report of the safety of the huber needle in Japan. This system may be recommended in Japan to avoid needle stick injuries, patient pain and uneasiness.

Enhanced Central Nervous System Transduction with Lentiviral Vectors Pseudotyped with RVG/HIV-1gp41 Chimeric Envelope Glycoproteins

PubMed Central

Trabalza, Antonio; Eleftheriadou, Ioanna; Sgourou, Argyro; Liao, Ting-Yi; Patsali, Petros; Lee, Heyne

2014-01-01

ABSTRACT To investigate the potential benefits which may arise from pseudotyping the HIV-1 lentiviral vector with its homologous gp41 envelope glycoprotein (GP) cytoplasmic tail (CT), we created chimeric RVG/HIV-1gp41 GPs composed of the extracellular and transmembrane sequences of RVG and either the full-length gp41 CT or C terminus gp41 truncations sequentially removing existing conserved motifs. Lentiviruses (LVs) pseudotyped with the chimeric GPs were evaluated in terms of particle release (physical titer), biological titers, infectivity, and in vivo central nervous system (CNS) transduction. We report here that LVs carrying shorter CTs expressed higher levels of envelope GP and showed a higher average infectivity than those bearing full-length GPs. Interestingly, complete removal of GP CT led to vectors with the highest transduction efficiency. Removal of all C-terminal gp41 CT conserved motifs, leaving just 17 amino acids (aa), appeared to preserve infectivity and resulted in a significantly increased physical titer. Furthermore, incorporation of these 17 aa in the RVG CT notably enhanced the physical titer. In vivo stereotaxic delivery of LV vectors exhibiting the best in vitro titers into rodent striatum facilitated efficient transduction of the CNS at the site of injection. A particular observation was the improved retrograde transduction of neurons in connected distal sites that resulted from the chimeric envelope R5 which included the “Kennedy” sequence (Ken) and lentivirus lytic peptide 2 (LLP2) conserved motifs in the CT, and although it did not exhibit a comparable high titer upon pseudotyping, it led to a significant increase in distal retrograde transduction of neurons. IMPORTANCE In this study, we have produced novel chimeric envelopes bearing the extracellular domain of rabies fused to the cytoplasmic tail (CT) of gp41 and pseudotyped lentiviral vectors with them. Here we report novel effects on the transduction efficiency and physical titer

gp49B-mediated negative regulation of antibody production by memory and marginal zone B cells.

PubMed

Fukao, Saori; Haniuda, Kei; Nojima, Takuya; Takai, Toshiyuki; Kitamura, Daisuke

2014-07-15

The rapid Ab responses observed after primary and secondary immunizations are mainly derived from marginal zone (MZ) and memory B cells, respectively, but it is largely unknown how these responses are negatively regulated. Several inhibitory receptors have been identified and their roles have been studied, but mainly on follicular B cells and much less so on MZ B, and never on memory B cells. gp49B is an Ig superfamily member that contains two ITIMs in its cytoplasmic tail, and it has been shown to negatively regulate mast cell, macrophage, and NK cell responses. In this study, we demonstrate that gp49B is preferentially expressed on memory and MZ B cells. We show that gp49B(-/-) mice produce more IgM after a primary immunization and more IgM and IgG1 after a secondary immunization than gp49B(+/+) mice in T cell-dependent immune responses. Memory and MZ B cells from gp49B(-/-) mice also produce more Abs upon in vitro stimulation with CD40 than those from gp49B(+/+) mice. The in vitro IgM production by MZ B cells from gp49B(+/+), but not gp49B(-/-), mice is suppressed by interaction with a putative gp49B ligand, the integrin αvβ3 heterodimer. In addition, gp49B(-/-) mice exhibited exaggerated IgE production in the memory recall response. These results suggest that plasma cell development from memory and MZ B cells, as well as subsequent Ab production, are suppressed via gp49B. In memory B cells, this suppression also prevents excessive IgE production, thus curtailing allergic diseases. Copyright © 2014 by The American Association of Immunologists, Inc.

An in vitro comparison of fluid leakage after dural puncture with Atraucan, Sprotte, Whitacre, and Quincke needles.

PubMed

Morrison, L M; McCrae, A F; Foo, I; Scott, D B; Wildsmith, J A

1996-01-01

The study was designed to evaluate the influence of needle size and design on the rate of leakage following dural puncture. An in vitro model and fresh human lumbar dura were used to examine the rate of fluid leakage after puncture with Sprotte (24-gauge and 26-gauge), Atraucan (24-gauge and 26-gauge), Quincke (26-gauge and 29-gauge), and Whitacre (22-gauge and 25-gauge) needles. The study confirmed that finer-gauge needles tend to produce less leakage and that traditional Quincke pattern bevels result in greater leakage than pencil-point designs of the same diameter. The comparably low leakage rate produced by the Atraucan, a new needle with a terminal opening, suggests that this needle is worthy of further clinical evaluation.

Crystallographic Insights into the Autocatalytic Assembly Mechanism of a Bacteriophage Tail Spike

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

Xiang, Ye; Leiman, Petr G.; Li, Long

2010-02-03

The tailed bacteriophage phi29 has 12 'appendages' (gene product 12, gp12) attached to its neck region that participate in host cell recognition and entry. In the cell, monomeric gp12 undergoes proteolytic processing that releases the C-terminal domain during assembly into trimers. We report here crystal structures of the protein before and after catalytic processing and show that the C-terminal domain of gp12 is an 'autochaperone' that aids trimerization. We also show that autocleavage of the C-terminal domain is a posttrimerization event that is followed by a unique ATP-dependent release. The posttranslationally modified N-terminal part has three domains that function tomore » attach the appendages to the phage, digest the cell wall teichoic acids, and bind irreversibly to the host, respectively. Structural and sequence comparisons suggest that some eukaryotic and bacterial viruses as well as bacterial adhesins might have a similar maturation mechanism as is performed by phi29 gp12 for Bacillus subtilis.« less

HIV-1 gp41 and gp160 are hyperthermostable proteins in a mesophilic environment. Characterization of gp41 mutants.

PubMed

Krell, Tino; Greco, Frédéric; Engel, Olivier; Dubayle, Jean; Dubayle, Joseline; Kennel, Audrey; Charloteaux, Benoit; Brasseur, Robert; Chevalier, Michel; Sodoyer, Regis; El Habib, Raphaëlle

2004-04-01

HIV gp41(24-157) unfolds cooperatively over the pH range of 1.0-4.0 with T(m) values of > 100 degrees C. At pH 2.8, protein unfolding was 80% reversible and the DeltaH(vH)/DeltaH(cal) ratio of 3.7 is indicative of gp41 being trimeric. No evidence for a monomer-trimer equilibrium in the concentration range of 0.3-36 micro m was obtained by DSC and tryptophan fluorescence. Glycosylation of gp41 was found to have only a marginal impact on the thermal stability. Reduction of the disulfide bond or mutation of both cysteine residues had only a marginal impact on protein stability. There was no cooperative unfolding event in the DSC thermogram of gp160 in NaCl/P(i), pH 7.4, over a temperature range of 8-129 degrees C. When the pH was lowered to 5.5-3.4, a single unfolding event at around 120 degrees C was noted, and three unfolding events at 93.3, 106.4 and 111.8 degrees C were observed at pH 2.8. Differences between gp41 and gp160, and hyperthermostable proteins from thermophile organisms are discussed. A series of gp41 mutants containing single, double, triple or quadruple point mutations were analysed by DSC and CD. The impact of mutations on the protein structure, in the context of generating a gp41 based vaccine antigen that resembles a fusion intermediate state, is discussed. A gp41 mutant, in which three hydrophobic amino acids in the gp41 loop were replaced with charged residues, showed an increased solubility at neutral pH.

Radiofrequency Cauterization with Biopsy Introducer Needle

PubMed Central

Pritchard, William F.; Wray-Cahen, Diane; Karanian, John W.; Hilbert, Stephen; Wood, Bradford J.

2014-01-01

PURPOSE The principal risks of needle biopsy are hemorrhage and implantation of tumor cells in the needle tract. This study compared hemorrhage after liver and kidney biopsy with and without radiofrequency (RF) ablation of the needle tract. MATERIALS AND METHODS Biopsies of liver and kidney were performed in swine through introducer needles modified to allow RF ablation with the distal 2 cm of the needle. After each biopsy, randomization determined whether the site was to undergo RF ablation during withdrawal of the introducer needle. Temperature was measured with a thermistor stylet near the needle tip, with a target temperature of 70°C–100°C with RF ablation. Blood loss was measured as grams of blood absorbed in gauze at the puncture site for 2 minutes after needle withdrawal. Selected specimens were cut for gross examination. RESULTS RF ablation reduced bleeding compared with absence of RF ablation in liver and kidney (P < .01), with mean blood loss reduced 63% and 97%, respectively. Mean amounts of blood loss (±SD) in the liver in the RF and no-RF groups were 2.03 g ± 4.03 (CI, 0.53–3.54 g) and 5.50 g ± 5.58 (CI, 3.33–7.66 g), respectively. Mean amounts of blood loss in the kidney in the RF and no-RF groups were 0.26 g ± 0.32 (CI, −0.01 to 0.53 g) and 8.79 g ± 7.72 (CI, 2.34–15.24 g), respectively. With RF ablation, thermal coagulation of the tissue surrounding the needle tract was observed. CONCLUSION RF ablation of needle biopsy tracts reduced hemorrhage after biopsy in the liver and kidney and may reduce complications of hemorrhage as well as implantation of tumor cells in the tract. PMID:14963187

The effect of acupuncture needle combination on central pain processing-an fMRI study

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Background Empirical acupuncture treatment paradigm for acute pain utilizing Tendinomuscular Meridians (TMM) calls for the stimulation of Ting Points (TPs) and Gathering point(GP). This study aims to compare the supraspinal neuronal mechanisms associated with both TPs and GP needling (EA3), and TPs needling alone (EA2) with fMRI. Results A significant (P < 0.01) difference between pre-scan (heat Pain) HP, and post-EA HP VAS scores in both paradigms was noted (n = 11). The post-EA HP VAS score was significantly (P < 0.05) lower with EA3 comparing to EA2 Within-group random effect analysis indicated that EA3+HP>EA3 (condition EA3+HP subtracted by condition EA3) appeared to exert a significant degree of activity suppression in the affective supraspinal regions including the IPL, anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) and the insular cortex (IN). This level of suppression was not observed in the EA2+HP>EA2 (condition EA2+HP subtracted by condition EA2) within-group random effect analysis Between-group random effect analysis indicated that EA3 induced a significantly (P < 0.01, cluster size threshold 150) higher degree of deactivation than EA2 in several pain related supraspinal regions including the right prefrontal cortex, rostral anterior cingulate (rACC), medial cingulate cortex, left inferior frontal lobe and posterior cerebellum. The 2-factor ANOVA in those regions indicated both rACC and posterior cerebellum had a significant (P < 0.01) needle effect, and the right prefrontal area showed a significant (P < 0.01) HP effect. However, a significant interaction between the two factors was only found in the right prefrontal lobe. Granger causality analysis showed EA3 induced a much higher degree of inference among HP related supraspinal somatosensory, affective and modulatory components than EA2. Deactivation pattern at the medullary-pontine area casted a direct inference on the deactivation pattern of secondary somatosensory cortices which also

The HsiB1C1 (TssB-TssC) Complex of the Pseudomonas aeruginosa Type VI Secretion System Forms a Bacteriophage Tail Sheathlike Structure

PubMed Central

Lossi, Nadine S.; Manoli, Eleni; Förster, Andreas; Dajani, Rana; Pape, Tillmann; Freemont, Paul; Filloux, Alain

2013-01-01

Protein secretion systems in Gram-negative bacteria evolved into a variety of molecular nanomachines. They are related to cell envelope complexes, which are involved in assembly of surface appendages or transport of solutes. They are classified as types, the most recent addition being the type VI secretion system (T6SS). The T6SS displays similarities to bacteriophage tail, which drives DNA injection into bacteria. The Hcp protein is related to the T4 bacteriophage tail tube protein gp19, whereas VgrG proteins structurally resemble the gp27/gp5 puncturing device of the phage. The tube and spike of the phage are pushed through the bacterial envelope upon contraction of a tail sheath composed of gp18. In Vibrio cholerae it was proposed that VipA and VipB assemble into a tail sheathlike structure. Here we confirm these previous data by showing that HsiB1 and HsiC1 of the Pseudomonas aeruginosa H1-T6SS assemble into tubules resulting from stacking of cogwheel-like structures showing predominantly 12-fold symmetry. The internal diameter of the cogwheels is ∼100 Å, which is large enough to accommodate an Hcp tube whose external diameter has been reported to be 85 Å. The N-terminal 212 residues of HsiC1 are sufficient to form a stable complex with HsiB1, but the C terminus of HsiC1 is essential for the formation of the tubelike structure. Bioinformatics analysis suggests that HsiC1 displays similarities to gp18-like proteins in its C-terminal region. In conclusion, we provide further structural and mechanistic insights into the T6SS and show that a phage sheathlike structure is likely to be a conserved element across all T6SSs. PMID:23341461

Psychosocial factors in GP work: the effects of taking a GP position or leaving GP work.

PubMed

Heponiemi, Tarja; Kouvonen, Anne; Aalto, Anna-Mari; Elovainio, Marko

2013-06-01

We examined the effects of leaving public sector general practitioner (GP) work and of taking a GP position on changes in work-related psychosocial factors, such as time pressure, patient-related stress, distress and work interference with family. In addition, we examined whether changes in time pressure and patient-related stress mediated the association of employment change with changes of distress and work interference with family. Participants were 1705 Finnish physicians (60% women) who responded to surveys in 2006 and 2010. Analyses of covariance were conducted to examine the effect of employment change to outcome changes adjusted for gender, age and response format. Mediational effects were tested following the procedures outlined by Baron and Kenny. Employment change was significantly associated with all the outcomes. Leaving public sector GP work was associated with substantially decreased time pressure, patient-related stress, distress and work interference with family. In contrast, taking a position as a public sector GP was associated with an increase in these factors. Mediation tests suggested that the associations of employment change with distress change and work interference with family change were partially explained by the changes in time pressure and patient-related stress. Our results showed that leaving public sector GP work is associated with favourable outcomes, whereas taking a GP position in the public sector is associated with adverse effects. Primary health-care organizations should pay more attention to the working conditions of their GPs, in particular, to time pressure and patient-related stress.

Needle Biopsy

MedlinePlus

... needle biopsy procedures include fine-needle aspiration and core needle biopsy. Needle biopsy may be used to ... hollow needle to draw cells from your body. Core needle biopsy. This type of needle biopsy uses ...

HIV-1 gp120 and Modified Vaccinia Virus Ankara (MVA) gp140 Boost Immunogens Increase Immunogenicity of a DNA/MVA HIV-1 Vaccine.

PubMed

Shen, Xiaoying; Basu, Rahul; Sawant, Sheetal; Beaumont, David; Kwa, Sue Fen; LaBranche, Celia; Seaton, Kelly E; Yates, Nicole L; Montefiori, David C; Ferrari, Guido; Wyatt, Linda S; Moss, Bernard; Alam, S Munir; Haynes, Barton F; Tomaras, Georgia D; Robinson, Harriet L

2017-12-15

An important goal of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) vaccine design is identification of strategies that elicit effective antiviral humoral immunity. One novel approach comprises priming with DNA and boosting with modified vaccinia virus Ankara (MVA) expressing HIV-1 Env on virus-like particles. In this study, we evaluated whether the addition of a gp120 protein in alum or MVA-expressed secreted gp140 (MVAgp140) could improve immunogenicity of a DNA prime-MVA boost vaccine. Five rhesus macaques per group received two DNA primes at weeks 0 and 8 followed by three MVA boosts (with or without additional protein or MVAgp140) at weeks 18, 26, and 40. Both boost immunogens enhanced the breadth of HIV-1 gp120 and V1V2 responses, antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC), and low-titer tier 1B and tier 2 neutralizing antibody responses. However, there were differences in antibody kinetics, linear epitope specificity, and CD4 T cell responses between the groups. The gp120 protein boost elicited earlier and higher peak responses, whereas the MVAgp140 boost resulted in improved antibody durability and comparable peak responses after the final immunization. Linear V3 specific IgG responses were particularly enhanced by the gp120 boost, whereas the MVAgp140 boost also enhanced responses to linear C5 and C2.2 epitopes. Interestingly, gp120, but not the MVAgp140 boost, increased peak CD4 + T cell responses. Thus, both gp120 and MVAgp140 can augment potential protection of a DNA/MVA vaccine by enhancing gp120 and V1/V2 antibody responses, whereas potential protection by gp120, but not MVAgp140 boosts, may be further impacted by increased CD4 + T cell responses. IMPORTANCE Prior immune correlate analyses with humans and nonhuman primates revealed the importance of antibody responses in preventing HIV-1 infection. A DNA prime-modified vaccinia virus Ankara (MVA) boost vaccine has proven to be potent in eliciting antibody responses. Here we explore the ability of boosts with

Recognition of similar epitopes on varicella-zoster virus gpI and gpIV by monoclonal antibodies.

PubMed Central

Vafai, A; Wroblewska, Z; Mahalingam, R; Cabirac, G; Wellish, M; Cisco, M; Gilden, D

1988-01-01

Two monoclonal antibodies, MAb43.2 and MAb79.0, prepared against varicella-zoster virus (VZV) proteins were selected to analyze VZV gpIV and gpI, respectively. MAb43.2 reacted only with cytoplasmic antigens, whereas MAb79.0 recognized both cytoplasmic and membrane antigens in VZV-infected cells. Immunoprecipitation of in vitro translation products with MAb43.2 revealed only proteins encoded by the gpIV gene, whereas MAb79.0 precipitated proteins encoded by the gpIV and gpI genes. Pulse-chase analysis followed by immunoprecipitation of VZV-infected cells indicated reactivity of MAb43.2 with three phosphorylated precursor species of gpIV and reactivity of MAb79.0 with the precursor and mature forms of gpI and gpIV. These results indicated that (i) MAb43.2 and MAb79.0 recognize different epitopes on VZV gpIV, (ii) glycosylation of gpIV ablates recognition by MAb43.2, and (iii) gpIV is phosphorylated. To map the binding site of MAb79.0 on gpI, the pGEM transcription vector, containing the coding region of the gpI gene, was linearized, and three truncated gpI DNA fragments were generated. RNA was transcribed from each truncated fragment by using SP6 RNA polymerase, translated in vitro in a rabbit reticulocyte lysate, and immunoprecipitated with MAb79.0 and human sera. The results revealed the existence of an antibody-binding site within 14 amino acid residues located between residues 109 to 123 on the predicted amino acid sequences of gpI. From the predicted amino acid sequences, 14 residues on gpI (residues 107 to 121) displayed a degree of similarity (36%) to two regions (residues 55 to 69 and 245 to 259) of gp IV. Such similarities may account for the binding of MAb79.0 to both VZV gpI and gpIV. Images PMID:2455814

Revisiting the NMR structure of the ultrafast downhill folding protein gpW from bacteriophage λ.

PubMed

Sborgi, Lorenzo; Verma, Abhinav; Muñoz, Victor; de Alba, Eva

2011-01-01

GpW is a 68-residue protein from bacteriophage λ that participates in virus head morphogenesis. Previous NMR studies revealed a novel α+β fold for this protein. Recent experiments have shown that gpW folds in microseconds by crossing a marginal free energy barrier (i.e., downhill folding). These features make gpW a highly desirable target for further experimental and computational folding studies. As a step in that direction, we have re-determined the high-resolution structure of gpW by multidimensional NMR on a construct that eliminates the purification tags and unstructured C-terminal tail present in the prior study. In contrast to the previous work, we have obtained a full manual assignment and calculated the structure using only unambiguous distance restraints. This new structure confirms the α+β topology, but reveals important differences in tertiary packing. Namely, the two α-helices are rotated along their main axis to form a leucine zipper. The β-hairpin is orthogonal to the helical interface rather than parallel, displaying most tertiary contacts through strand 1. There also are differences in secondary structure: longer and less curved helices and a hairpin that now shows the typical right-hand twist. Molecular dynamics simulations starting from both gpW structures, and calculations with CS-Rosetta, all converge to our gpW structure. This confirms that the original structure has strange tertiary packing and strained secondary structure. A comparison of NMR datasets suggests that the problems were mainly caused by incomplete chemical shift assignments, mistakes in NOE assignment and the inclusion of ambiguous distance restraints during the automated procedure used in the original study. The new gpW corrects these problems, providing the appropriate structural reference for future work. Furthermore, our results are a cautionary tale against the inclusion of ambiguous experimental information in the determination of protein structures.

Structure of a Complex Phosphoglycan Epitope from gp72 of Trypanosoma cruzi *

PubMed Central

Allen, Simon; Richardson, Julia M.; Mehlert, Angela; Ferguson, Michael A. J.

2013-01-01

The parasitic protozoan organism Trypanosoma cruzi is the causative agent of Chagas disease. The insect vector-dwelling epimastigote form of the organism expresses a low abundance glycoprotein associated with the flagellum adhesion zone, called gp72. The gp72 glycoprotein was first identified with an anti-carbohydrate IgG3 monoclonal antibody called WIC29.26 and has been shown to have an unusual sugar composition. Here, we describe a new way to isolate the WIC29.26 carbohydrate epitope of gp72. Using 1H NMR and mass spectrometry before and after derivatization, we provide an almost complete primary chemical structure for the epitope, which is that of a complex phosphosaccharide: Galfβ1–4Rhapα1–2Fucpα1-4(Galpβ1–3)(Galpα1–2)Xylpβ1–4Xylpβ1–3(Xylpβ1–2Galpα1-4(Galpβ1–3)(Rhapα1–2)Fucpα1–4)GlcNAcp, with phosphate attached to one or other of the two Galp terminal residues and in which all residues are of the d-absolute configuration, except for fucose and rhamnose which are l. Combined with previous data (Haynes, P. A., Ferguson, M. A., and Cross, G. A. (1996) Glycobiology 6, 869–878), we postulate that this complex structure and its variants lacking one or more residues are linked to Thr and Ser residues in gp72 via a phosphodiester linkage (GlcNAcpα1-P-Thr/Ser) and that these units may form phosphosaccharide repeats through GlcNAcpα1-P-Galp linkages. The gp72 glycoprotein is associated with the flagellum adhesion zone on the parasite surface, and its ligation has been implicated in inhibiting parasite differentiation from the epimastigote to the metacyclic trypomastigote stage. The detailed structure of the unique phosphosaccharide component of gp72 reported here provides a template for future biosynthetic and functional studies. PMID:23436655

Guided percutaneous fine-needle aspiration biopsy of the liver

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

Ho, C.S.; McLoughlin, M.J.; Tao, L.C.

1981-04-01

Forty patients with suspected malignant disease of the liver underwent percutaneous fine-needle aspiration biopsy with radioisotope scintigraphic and fluoroscopic guidance. The needle was aimed at focal defects identified on the liver scan and several passes were made. When the scan was diffusely abnormal, the liver was widely sampled with multiple passes. Thirty patients were eventually considered to have malignant disease and aspiration biopsy was positive in 28 (93%) of these patients, including 25 of 26 with liver metastases (96%). There were two false-positive results and one minor complication. In 24 patients, conventional wide-bore needle biopsy was also performed. In thismore » group, 16 patients had a final diagnosis of hepatic malignancy. Aspiration biopsies were positive in 14 of these (87%) and conventional needle biopsies were positive in four (25%). Guided percutaneous fine-needle aspiration biopsy is recommended for pathologic diagnosis of hepatic malignancy because of its simplicity, high yield, and reasonable safety.« less

DNA unwinding by ring-shaped T4 helicase gp41 is hindered by tension on the occluded strand.

PubMed

Ribeck, Noah; Saleh, Omar A

2013-01-01

The replicative helicase for bacteriophage T4 is gp41, which is a ring-shaped hexameric motor protein that achieves unwinding of dsDNA by translocating along one strand of ssDNA while forcing the opposite strand to the outside of the ring. While much study has been dedicated to the mechanism of binding and translocation along the ssDNA strand encircled by ring-shaped helicases, relatively little is known about the nature of the interaction with the opposite, 'occluded' strand. Here, we investigate the interplay between the bacteriophage T4 helicase gp41 and the ss/dsDNA fork by measuring, at the single-molecule level, DNA unwinding events on stretched DNA tethers in multiple geometries. We find that gp41 activity is significantly dependent on the geometry and tension of the occluded strand, suggesting an interaction between gp41 and the occluded strand that stimulates the helicase. However, the geometry dependence of gp41 activity is the opposite of that found previously for the E. coli hexameric helicase DnaB. Namely, tension applied between the occluded strand and dsDNA stem inhibits unwinding activity by gp41, while tension pulling apart the two ssDNA tails does not hinder its activity. This implies a distinct variation in helicase-occluded strand interactions among superfamily IV helicases, and we propose a speculative model for this interaction that is consistent with both the data presented here on gp41 and the data that had been previously reported for DnaB.

Development of an MRI-Guided Intra-Prostatic Needle Placement System

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-07-01

and intra-operative imaging using techniques such as those described by Haker , et al. [18]. Target points for the needle insertion are selected... Haker , S., Fichtinger, G., Tem- pany, C.: Transperineal prostate biopsy under magnetic resonance image guid- ance: A needle placement accuracy study 26...clinically localized prostate cancer. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 42(3), 507–515 (1998) 9. DiMaio, S.P., Pieper, S., Chinzei, K., Hata, N., Haker , S.J

Crystallization of the carboxy-terminal region of the bacteriophage T4 proximal long tail fibre protein gp34

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

Granell, Meritxell; Namura, Mikiyoshi; Alvira, Sara

2014-06-19

The crystallization of three C-terminal fragments of the bacteriophage T4 protein gp34 is reported. Diffraction data have been obtained for three native crystal forms and two selenomethionine derivatives, one of which contained high-quality anomalous signal.

In-plane ultrasonic needle tracking using a fiber-optic hydrophone

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

Xia, Wenfeng, E-mail: wenfeng.xia@ucl.ac.uk; Desjardins, Adrien E.; Mari, Jean Martial

. With the needle tip in water, the SNR of the needle tip varied with insertion angle, attaining values of 284 at 27° and 501 at 68°. In swine tissue ex vivo, the SNR decreased from 80 at 15° to 16 at 61°. In swine tissue in vivo, the SNR varied with depth, from 200 at 17.5 mm to 48 at 26 mm, with a constant insertion angle of 40°. In ovine tissue in vivo, within the uterine cavity, the SNR varied from 46.4 at 25 mm depth to 18.4 at 32 mm depth, with insertion angles in the range of 26°–65°. Conclusions: A fiber-optic ultrasound receiver integrated into the needle cannula in combination with single-element transmissions from the imaging probe allows for direct visualization of the needle tip within the ultrasound imaging plane. Visualization of the needle tip was achieved at depths and insertion angles that are encountered during nerve blocks and fetal interventions. The method presented in this paper has strong potential to improve the safety and efficiency of ultrasound-guided needle insertions.« less

The Epstein-Barr Virus Glycoprotein gp150 Forms an Immune-Evasive Glycan Shield at the Surface of Infected Cells

PubMed Central

Gram, Anna M.; Oosenbrug, Timo; Lindenbergh, Marthe F. S.; Büll, Christian; Comvalius, Anouskha; Dickson, Kathryn J. I.; Wiegant, Joop; Vrolijk, Hans; Lebbink, Robert Jan; Wolterbeek, Ron; Adema, Gosse J.; Griffioen, Marieke; Heemskerk, Mirjam H. M.; Tscharke, David C.; Hutt-Fletcher, Lindsey M.; Ressing, Maaike E.

2016-01-01

Cell-mediated immunity plays a key role in host control of viral infection. This is exemplified by life-threatening reactivations of e.g. herpesviruses in individuals with impaired T-cell and/or iNKT cell responses. To allow lifelong persistence and virus production in the face of primed immunity, herpesviruses exploit immune evasion strategies. These include a reduction in viral antigen expression during latency and a number of escape mechanisms that target antigen presentation pathways. Given the plethora of foreign antigens expressed in virus-producing cells, herpesviruses are conceivably most vulnerable to elimination by cell-mediated immunity during the replicative phase of infection. Here, we show that a prototypic herpesvirus, Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), encodes a novel, broadly acting immunoevasin, gp150, that is expressed during the late phase of viral replication. In particular, EBV gp150 inhibits antigen presentation by HLA class I, HLA class II, and the non-classical, lipid-presenting CD1d molecules. The mechanism of gp150-mediated T-cell escape does not depend on degradation of the antigen-presenting molecules nor does it require gp150’s cytoplasmic tail. Through its abundant glycosylation, gp150 creates a shield that impedes surface presentation of antigen. This is an unprecedented immune evasion mechanism for herpesviruses. In view of its likely broader target range, gp150 could additionally have an impact beyond escape of T cell activation. Importantly, B cells infected with a gp150-null mutant EBV displayed rescued levels of surface antigen presentation by HLA class I, HLA class II, and CD1d, supporting an important role for iNKT cells next to classical T cells in fighting EBV infection. At the same time, our results indicate that EBV gp150 prolongs the timespan for producing viral offspring at the most vulnerable stage of the viral life cycle. PMID:27077376

Deletion of fusion peptide or destabilization of fusion core of HIV gp41 enhances antigenicity and immunogenicity of 4E10 epitope

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

Li Jing; Beijing Key Laboratory for Protein Therapeutics, Beijing 100084; Chen Xi

2008-11-07

The human monoclonal antibody 4E10 against the membrane-proximal external region (MPER) of HIV-1 gp41 demonstrates broad neutralizing activity across various strains, and makes its epitope an attractive target for HIV-1 vaccine development. Although the contiguous epitope of 4E10 has been identified, attempts to re-elicit 4E10-like antibodies have failed, possibly due to the lack of proper conformation of the 4E10 epitope. Here we used pIg-tail expression system to construct a panel of eukaryotic cell-surface expression plasmids encoding the extracellular domain of gp41 with deletion of fusion peptide and/or introduction of L568P mutation that may disrupt the gp41 six-helix bundle core conformationmore » as DNA vaccines for immunization of mice. We found that these changes resulted in significant increase of the antigenicity and immunogenicity of 4E10 epitope. This information is thus useful for rational design of vaccines targeting the HIV-1 gp41 MPER.« less

Spinal analgesia and auditory functions: a comparison of two sizes of Quincke needle.

PubMed

Malhotra, S K; Iyer, B A; Gupta, A K; Raghunathan, M; Nakra, D

2007-01-01

Spinal anaesthesia may produce complications ranging from minor problems such as pain on injection, backache and urinary retention to more serious consequences such as post-dural puncture headache (PDPH), neurological complications like meningitis, cranial and peripheral nerve palsies and even cardiac arrest. Impaired auditory function is a relatively lesser-recognized complication of spinal analgesia. The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of spinal analgesia on vestibular dysfunction, using different sizes of the same type of spinal needle. The study included 30 ASA I patients who had received spinal analgesia for lower abdominal surgery. Pure tone audiometry was performed before surgery and on postoperative day 2. In addition, any patient with hearing impairment of >15 dB was scheduled to undergo electrocochleography. Hearing levels were measured from 250 Hz to 8 kHz. In group 1 (n=15), a 26gauge Quincke needle was used. In group 2 (n=15), a 23-gauge Quincke needle was used. Comparison of hearing thresholds showed a significant reduction in the hearing level (P<0.05) in 2 patients in group 2 but none in group 1. The use of a 23-gauge Quincke needle is associated with a greater reduction in the mean hearing level compared to a 26-gauge needle of the same type.

Structure of the Bacteriophage [phi]KZ Lytic Transglycosylase gp144

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

Fokine, Andrei; Miroshnikov, Konstantin A.; Shneider, Mikhail M.

2008-04-02

Lytic transglycosylases are enzymes that act on the peptidoglycan of bacterial cell walls. They cleave the glycosidic linkage between N-acetylmuramoyl and N-acetylglucosaminyl residues with the concomitant formation of a 1,6-anhydromuramoyl product. The x-ray structure of the lytic transglycosylase gp144 from the Pseudomonas bacteriophage {phi}KZ has been determined to 2.5-{angstrom} resolution. This protein is probably employed by the bacteriophage in the late stage of the virus reproduction cycle to destroy the bacterial cell wall to release the phage progeny. {phi}KZ gp144 is a 260-residue {alpha}-helical protein composed of a 70-residue N-terminal cell wall-binding domain and a C-terminal catalytic domain. The foldmore » of the N-terminal domain is similar to the peptidoglycan-binding domain from Streptomyces albus G d-Ala-d-Ala carboxypeptidase and to the N-terminal prodomain of human metalloproteinases that act on extracellular matrices. The C-terminal catalytic domain of gp144 has a structural similarity to the catalytic domain of the transglycosylase Slt70 from Escherichia coli and to lysozymes. The gp144 catalytic domain has an elongated groove that can bind at least five sugar residues at sites A-E. As in other lysozymes, the peptidoglycan cleavage (catalyzed by Glu{sup 115} in gp144) occurs between sugar-binding subsites D and E. The x-ray structure of the {phi}KZ transglycosylase complexed with the chitotetraose (N-acetylglucosamine){sub 4} has been determined to 2.6-{angstrom} resolution. The N-acetylglucosamine residues of the chitotetraose bind in sites A-D.« less

GP trainers and trainees - trait and gender differences in personality: implications for GP training.

PubMed

Joffe, Megan; MacLeod, Sheona; Kedziora, Marta; Main, Paul

2016-05-01

This study looked at differences between established GP trainers and current GP trainees in relation to personality traits. Personality differences are particularly important for training in the UK context where the attributes of successful GPs may be evolving as the context changes, and where there is a unique one-to-one relationship between trainer and trainee. GP trainers and trainees attending educational events were invited to participate in this study by completing the NEO-PI-R, a personality measure. Correlation and multiple regression analysis demonstrated differences between these groups; some in line with expected differences relating to age and gender. Others, such as lower reported levels of emotional resilience, may be particular to this trainee population. Overall the gender differences are significant given the trend towards the feminisation of the medical profession. Generational differences may also explain some behaviour and attitudinal differences which can aid trainers' understanding of training issues. The findings have important implications for training, particularly in relation to the development of emotional resilience for GP trainees, and for recruitment. Further research correlating educational outcomes and perceived satisfaction with a GP career and GP training would indicate if trainer/trainee personality differences have a direct bearing on educational outcomes and future practice.

[Electron microscopy of the lesions produced in the human dura mater by Quincke beveled and Whitacre needles].

PubMed

Reina, M A; López-García, A; de Andrés-Ibáñez, J A; Dittmann, M; Cascales, M R; del Caño, M C; Daneri, J; Zambrano, O

1997-02-01

Comparisons of Quincke needles and non traumatic "pencil point" needles in recent years have reported lower rates of post dural puncture headache using the later type. Our new understanding of the morphology of the human dura mater motivated us to study dural lesions caused by the Whitacre 25 G and Quincke 26 G needles, using scanning electron microscopy with the aim of determining whether there is an anatomic basis for the different outcomes. The dura mater from three fresh cadavers of individuals aged 65, 70 and 72 years were punctured 40 times at an angle of 90 degrees each time. The Whitacre 25 G needle was used for 20 punctures and the Quincke 26 G needle was used for the other 20. Half the punctures were performed with the bevel in the parallel alignment and the other half with the bevel perpendicular to the spinal column. Fifteen min after causing the punctures, specimens were fixed in solutions of glutaraldehyde phosphate buffer and dehydrated in acetone. After critical point removal of the acetone, after the specimens were treated with carbon and metallized with gold. The lesions were examined externally and internally and expressed as the ratio of area of lesion to diameter of the needle that had caused them. Whitacre needle: each lesion consisted in the superimposition of multiple damaged layers that started to close individually. After 15 min the outermost layers were 90% closed and the innermost ones had closed entirely. Layers in the arachnoid surface of the dura mater had closed from 86 to 88%, while deeper layers in the thick part had closed 97 to 98%. Quincke needle: lesions were V-shaped or half-moon shaped, much like the opening formed by a can opener, on both the external and internal surfaces. Alignment of the bevel of the needle parallel to the spinal column did not lead to a different shape of puncture. After 15 min the lesions had closed 94 to 95% on the epidural surface and 95 to 96% on the arachnoid side, a difference attributable to the

Development of Small-molecule HIV Entry Inhibitors Specifically Targeting gp120 or gp41

PubMed Central

Lu, Lu; Yu, Fei; Cai, Lifeng; Debnath, Asim K.; Jiang, Shibo

2015-01-01

Human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) envelope (Env) glycoprotein surface subunit gp120 and transmembrane subunit gp41 play important roles in HIV-1 entry, thus serving as key targets for the development of HIV-1 entry inhibitors. T20 peptide (enfuvirtide) is the first U.S. FDA-approved HIV entry inhibitor; however, its clinical application is limited by the lack of oral availability. Here, we have described the structure and function of the HIV-1 gp120 and gp41 subunits and reviewed advancements in the development of small-molecule HIV entry inhibitors specifically targeting these two Env glycoproteins. We then compared the advantages and disadvantages of different categories of HIV entry inhibitor candidates and further predicted the future trend of HIV entry inhibitor development. PMID:26324044

Structure of HIV-1 gp120 with gp41-interactive region reveals layered envelope architecture and basis of conformational mobility

PubMed Central

Pancera, Marie; Majeed, Shahzad; Ban, Yih-En Andrew; Chen, Lei; Huang, Chih-chin; Kong, Leopold; Stuckey, Jonathan; Zhou, Tongqing; Robinson, James E.; Schief, William R.; Sodroski, Joseph; Wyatt, Richard; Kwong, Peter D.

2009-01-01

The viral spike of HIV-1 is composed of three gp120 envelope glycoproteins attached noncovalently to three gp41 transmembrane molecules. Viral entry is initiated by binding to the CD4 receptor on the cell surface, which induces large conformational changes in gp120. These changes not only provide a model for receptor-triggered entry, but affect spike sensitivity to drug- and antibody-mediated neutralization. Although some of the details of the CD4-induced conformational change have been visualized by crystal structures and cryoelectron tomograms, the critical gp41-interactive region of gp120 was missing from previous atomic-level characterizations. Here we determine the crystal structure of an HIV-1 gp120 core with intact gp41-interactive region in its CD4-bound state, compare this structure to unliganded and antibody-bound forms to identify structurally invariant and plastic components, and use ligand-oriented cryoelectron tomograms to define component mobility in the viral spike context. Newly defined gp120 elements proximal to the gp41 interface complete a 7-stranded β-sandwich, which appeared invariant in conformation. Loop excursions emanating from the sandwich form three topologically separate—and structurally plastic—layers, topped off by the highly glycosylated gp120 outer domain. Crystal structures, cryoelectron tomograms, and interlayer chemistry were consistent with a mechanism in which the layers act as a shape-changing spacer, facilitating movement between outer domain and gp41-associated β-sandwich and providing for conformational diversity used in immune evasion. A “layered” gp120 architecture thus allows movement among alternative glycoprotein conformations required for virus entry and immune evasion, whereas a β-sandwich clamp maintains gp120–gp41 interaction and regulates gp41 transitions. PMID:20080564

Structure of HIV-1 gp120 with gp41-interactive region reveals layered envelope architecture and basis of conformational mobility.

PubMed

Pancera, Marie; Majeed, Shahzad; Ban, Yih-En Andrew; Chen, Lei; Huang, Chih-chin; Kong, Leopold; Kwon, Young Do; Stuckey, Jonathan; Zhou, Tongqing; Robinson, James E; Schief, William R; Sodroski, Joseph; Wyatt, Richard; Kwong, Peter D

2010-01-19

The viral spike of HIV-1 is composed of three gp120 envelope glycoproteins attached noncovalently to three gp41 transmembrane molecules. Viral entry is initiated by binding to the CD4 receptor on the cell surface, which induces large conformational changes in gp120. These changes not only provide a model for receptor-triggered entry, but affect spike sensitivity to drug- and antibody-mediated neutralization. Although some of the details of the CD4-induced conformational change have been visualized by crystal structures and cryoelectron tomograms, the critical gp41-interactive region of gp120 was missing from previous atomic-level characterizations. Here we determine the crystal structure of an HIV-1 gp120 core with intact gp41-interactive region in its CD4-bound state, compare this structure to unliganded and antibody-bound forms to identify structurally invariant and plastic components, and use ligand-oriented cryoelectron tomograms to define component mobility in the viral spike context. Newly defined gp120 elements proximal to the gp41 interface complete a 7-stranded beta-sandwich, which appeared invariant in conformation. Loop excursions emanating from the sandwich form three topologically separate--and structurally plastic--layers, topped off by the highly glycosylated gp120 outer domain. Crystal structures, cryoelectron tomograms, and interlayer chemistry were consistent with a mechanism in which the layers act as a shape-changing spacer, facilitating movement between outer domain and gp41-associated beta-sandwich and providing for conformational diversity used in immune evasion. A "layered" gp120 architecture thus allows movement among alternative glycoprotein conformations required for virus entry and immune evasion, whereas a beta-sandwich clamp maintains gp120-gp41 interaction and regulates gp41 transitions.

Does a paresthesia during spinal needle insertion indicate intrathecal needle placement?

PubMed

Pong, Ryan P; Gmelch, Benjamin S; Bernards, Christopher M

2009-01-01

Paresthesias are relatively common during spinal needle insertion, however, the clinical significance of the paresthesia is unknown. A paresthesia may result from needle-to-nerve contact with a spinal nerve in the epidural space, or, with far lateral needle placement, may result from contact with a spinal nerve within the intervertebral foramen. However, it is also possible and perhaps more likely, that paresthesias occur when the spinal needle contacts a spinal nerve root within the subarachnoid space. This study was designed to test this latter hypothesis. Patients (n = 104) scheduled for surgery under spinal anesthesia were observed during spinal needle insertion. If a paresthesia occurred, the needle was fixed in place and the stylet removed to observe whether cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) flowed from the hub. The presence of CSF was considered proof that the needle had entered the subarachnoid space. Paresthesias occurred in 14/103 (13.6%) of patients; 1 patient experienced a paresthesia twice. All paresthesias were transient. Following a paresthesia, CSF was observed in the needle hub 86.7% (13/15) of the time. Our data suggest that the majority of transient paresthesias occur when the spinal needle enters the subarachnoid space and contacts a spinal nerve root. Therefore, when transient paresthesias occur during spinal needle placement it is appropriate to stop and assess for the presence of CSF in the needle hub, rather than withdraw and redirect the spinal needle away from the side of the paresthesia as some authors have suggested.

Cultural competency training of GP Registrars-exploring the views of GP Supervisors.

PubMed

Watt, Kelly; Abbott, Penny; Reath, Jenny

2015-10-06

An equitable multicultural society requires General Practitioners (GPs) to be proficient in providing health care to patients from diverse backgrounds. This requires a certain set of attitudes, knowledge and skills known as cultural competence. While training in cultural competence is an important part of the Australian GP Registrar training curriculum, it is unclear who provides this training apart from in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander training posts. The majority of Australian GP Registrar training takes place in a workplace setting facilitated by the GP Supervisor. In view of the central role of GP Supervisors, their views on culturally competent practice, and their role in its development in Registrars, are important to ascertain. We conducted 14 semi-structured interviews with GP Supervisors. These were audiotaped, transcribed verbatim and thematically analyzed using an iterative approach. The Supervisors interviewed frequently viewed cultural competence as adequately covered by using patient-centered approaches. The Supervisor role in promoting cultural competence of Registrars was affirmed, though training was noted to occur opportunistically and focused largely on patient-centered care rather than health disparities. Formal training for both Registrars and Supervisors may be beneficial not only to develop a deeper understanding of cultural competence and its relevance to practice but also to promote more consistency in training from Supervisors in the area, particularly with respect to self-reflection, non-conscious bias and utilizing appropriate cultural knowledge without stereotyping and assumption-making.

TU-H-CAMPUS-JeP3-05: Adaptive Determination of Needle Sequence HDR Prostate Brachytherapy with Divergent Needle-By-Needle Delivery

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

Borot de Battisti, M; Maenhout, M; Lagendijk, J J W

Purpose: To develop a new method which adaptively determines the optimal needle insertion sequence for HDR prostate brachytherapy involving divergent needle-by-needle dose delivery by e.g. a robotic device. A needle insertion sequence is calculated at the beginning of the intervention and updated after each needle insertion with feedback on needle positioning errors. Methods: Needle positioning errors and anatomy changes may occur during HDR brachytherapy which can lead to errors in the delivered dose. A novel strategy was developed to calculate and update the needle sequence and the dose plan after each needle insertion with feedback on needle positioning errors. Themore » dose plan optimization was performed by numerical simulations. The proposed needle sequence determination optimizes the final dose distribution based on the dose coverage impact of each needle. This impact is predicted stochastically by needle insertion simulations. HDR procedures were simulated with varying number of needle insertions (4 to 12) using 11 patient MR data-sets with PTV, prostate, urethra, bladder and rectum delineated. Needle positioning errors were modeled by random normally distributed angulation errors (standard deviation of 3 mm at the needle’s tip). The final dose parameters were compared in the situations where the needle with the largest vs. the smallest dose coverage impact was selected at each insertion. Results: Over all scenarios, the percentage of clinically acceptable final dose distribution improved when the needle selected had the largest dose coverage impact (91%) compared to the smallest (88%). The differences were larger for few (4 to 6) needle insertions (maximum difference scenario: 79% vs. 60%). The computation time of the needle sequence optimization was below 60s. Conclusion: A new adaptive needle sequence determination for HDR prostate brachytherapy was developed. Coupled to adaptive planning, the selection of the needle with the largest dose coverage

Plasma membrane translocation of a protein needle based on a triple-stranded β-helix motif.

PubMed

Sanghamitra, Nusrat J M; Inaba, Hiroshi; Arisaka, Fumio; Ohtan Wang, Dan; Kanamaru, Shuji; Kitagawa, Susumu; Ueno, Takafumi

2014-10-01

Plasma membrane translocation is challenging due to the barrier of the cell membrane. Contrary to the synthetic cell-penetrating materials, tailed bacteriophages use cell-puncturing protein needles to puncture the cell membranes as an initial step of the DNA injection process. Cell-puncturing protein needles are thought to remain functional in the native phages. In this paper, we found that a bacteriophage T4 derived protein needle of 16 nm length spontaneously translocates through the living cell membrane. The β-helical protein needle (β-PN) internalizes into human red blood cells that lack endocytic machinery. By comparing the cellular uptake of β-PNs with modified surface charge, it is shown that the uptake efficiency is maximum when it has a negative charge corresponding to a zeta potential value of -16 mV. In HeLa cells, uptake of β-PN incorporates endocytosis independent mechanisms with partial macropinocytosis dependence. The endocytosis dependence of the uptake increases when the surface charges of β-PNs are modified to positive or negative. Thus, these results suggest that natural DNA injecting machinery can serve as an inspiration to design new class of cell-penetrating materials with a tailored mechanism.

The effect of GP telephone triage on numbers seeking same-day appointments.

PubMed

Jiwa, Moyez; Mathers, Nigel; Campbell, Mike

2002-05-01

Telephone consultations with general practitioners (GPs) have not been shown to be an effective way to reduce the demandfor face-to face appointments during the surgery hours. This study aims to determine if GP telephone triage can effectively reduce the demandforface-to -face consultations for patients seeking same-day appointments in general practice. We report an interrupted time series, twoyears before and one year after introduction of GP-led telephone triage. Demand for face-to face appointments with a GPwas reduced by 39% (95% CI = 29 to 51%, P < 0.001). more than 92% of the telephone calls lasted less thanfive minutes. The telephone bill increased by 26%. For a substantial proportion of patients seeking same-day appointments telephone consultations were an acceptable alternative service.

Uncoupling GP1 and GP2 Expression in the Lassa Virus Glycoprotein Complex: Implications for GP1 Ectodomain Shedding

DTIC Science & Technology

2008-12-23

glycoprotein precursor (GPC) signal peptide (SP) or human IgG signal sequences (s.s.). GP2 was secreted from cells only when (1) the transmembrane (TM) domain... peptide (SP) or human IgG signal sequences (s.s.). GP2 was secreted from cells only when (1) the transmembrane (TM) domain was deleted, the...terminal signal peptide (SP), which directs the precursor to the endoplasmic retic- ulum (ER) for further processing [11]. The SP, which has been

Attenuated Human Parainfluenza Virus Type 1 Expressing Ebola Virus Glycoprotein GP Administered Intranasally Is Immunogenic in African Green Monkeys.

PubMed

Lingemann, Matthias; Liu, Xueqiao; Surman, Sonja; Liang, Bo; Herbert, Richard; Hackenberg, Ashley D; Buchholz, Ursula J; Collins, Peter L; Munir, Shirin

2017-05-15

The recent 2014-2016 Ebola virus (EBOV) outbreak prompted increased efforts to develop vaccines against EBOV disease. We describe the development and preclinical evaluation of an attenuated recombinant human parainfluenza virus type 1 (rHPIV1) expressing the membrane-anchored form of EBOV glycoprotein GP, as an intranasal (i.n.) EBOV vaccine. GP was codon optimized and expressed either as a full-length protein or as an engineered chimeric form in which its transmembrane and cytoplasmic tail (TMCT) domains were replaced with those of the HPIV1 F protein in an effort to enhance packaging into the vector particle and immunogenicity. GP was inserted either preceding the N gene (pre-N) or between the N and P genes (N-P) of rHPIV1 bearing a stabilized attenuating mutation in the P/C gene (C Δ170 ). The constructs grew to high titers and efficiently and stably expressed GP. Viruses were attenuated, replicating at low titers over several days, in the respiratory tract of African green monkeys (AGMs). Two doses of candidates expressing GP from the pre-N position elicited higher GP neutralizing serum antibody titers than the N-P viruses, and unmodified GP induced higher levels than its TMCT counterpart. Unmodified EBOV GP was packaged into the HPIV1 particle, and the TMCT modification did not increase packaging or immunogenicity but rather reduced the stability of GP expression during in vivo replication. In conclusion, we identified an attenuated and immunogenic i.n. vaccine candidate expressing GP from the pre-N position. It is expected to be well tolerated in humans and is available for clinical evaluation. IMPORTANCE EBOV hemorrhagic fever is one of the most lethal viral infections and lacks a licensed vaccine. Contact of fluids from infected individuals, including droplets or aerosols, with mucosal surfaces is an important route of EBOV spread during a natural outbreak, and aerosols also might be exploited for intentional virus spread. Therefore, vaccines that protect

Thermoelectric needle probe for temperature measurements in biological materials.

PubMed

Korn, U; Rav-Noy, Z; Shtrikman, S; Zafrir, M

1980-04-01

In certain biological and medical applications it is important to measure and follow temperature changes inside a body or tissue. Any probe inserted into a tissue causes damage to tissue and distortion to the initial temperature distribution. To minimize this interference, a fine probe is needed. Thus, thin film technology is advantageous and was utilized by us to produce sensitive probes for these applications. The resulting probe is a small thermocouple at the tip of a thin needle (acupuncture stainless steel needle, approximately 0.26 mm in diameter and length in the range 5-10 cm was used). The junction was produced at the needle's tip by coating the needle with thin layers of insulating and thermoelectric materials. The first layer is an insulating one and is composed of polyacrylonitrile (PAN) and polymide produced by plasma polymerization and dip-coating respectively. This layer covers all the needle except the tip. The second layer is a vacuum deposited thermoelectric thin layer of Bi-5% Sb alloy coating also the tip. The third layer is for insulation and protection and is composed of PAN and polyimide. In this arrangement the junction is at the needle's tip, the needle is one conductor, the thermoelectric layer is the other and they are isolated by the plastic layer. The probe is handy and mechanically sturdy. The sensitivity is typically 77 microV/degrees C at room temperature and is constant to within 2% up to 90 degrees C. The response is fast (less than 1 sec) the noise is small, (less than 0.05 degrees C) and because of the small dimension, damage to tissue and disturbance to the measured temperature field are minimal.

Optional part-time and longer GP training modules in GP practices associated with more trainees becoming GPs - a cohort study in Switzerland.

PubMed

Studerus, Lara; Ahrens, Regina; Häuptle, Christian; Goeldlin, Adrian; Streit, Sven

2018-01-05

Switzerland, like many other countries, has a shortage of General Practitioners (GPs). Optional GP training modules in GP practices were offered during the at least 5-year GP training program to increase student and trainee interest in becoming a GP. The training modules had not yet been evaluated. We determined how many Swiss GP trainees became practicing GPs after they completed optional training modules, and if longer modules were associated with higher rates of GP specialization. In this population-based cohort study, we included GP trainees who chose an optional GP training module in GP practice, provided by the Foundation to Promote Training in General Practice (WHM) between 2006 and 2015. GP trainees were invited to complete an online survey to assess the primary outcome (becoming a practicing GP by 2016). Data on non-responders was collected via an internet search. We calculated univariate time-to-event curves to become a practicing GP, stratified by trainee's gender, length, part-time training, and number of years after graduation until training modules were completed. We used a multivariate model to adjust for characteristics of participants, training, and satisfaction with training modules. We assessed primary outcome for 351 (92.1%) of 381 former GP trainees who participated in a WHM program between 2006 and 2015. Of these 218 (57%) were practicing GPs by 2016. When focusing on the trainees who had completed training between 2006 and 2010, the rate of practicing GPs was even 73%. Longer (p = 0.018) and part-time training modules (p = 0.003) were associated with higher rates of being a practicing GP. Most (81%) practicing GPs thought their optional GP training module was (very) important in their choice of specialty. GP trainees who spent more time training in a GP practice, or who trained part-time were more likely to become practicing GPs. Most (80%) rated their training module as (very) important in their choice of career, highlighting that

Robot-Assisted Needle Steering

PubMed Central

Reed, Kyle B.; Majewicz, Ann; Kallem, Vinutha; Alterovitz, Ron; Goldberg, Ken; Cowan, Noah J.; Okamura, Allison M.

2012-01-01

Needle insertion is a critical aspect of many medical treatments, diagnostic methods, and scientific studies, and is considered to be one of the simplest and most minimally invasive medical procedures. Robot-assisted needle steering has the potential to improve the effectiveness of existing medical procedures and enable new ones by allowing increased accuracy through more dexterous control of the needle tip path and acquisition of targets not accessible by straight-line trajectories. In this article, we describe a robot-assisted needle steering system that uses three integrated controllers: a motion planner concerned with guiding the needle around obstacles to a target in a desired plane, a planar controller that maintains the needle in the desired plane, and a torsion compensator that controls the needle tip orientation about the axis of the needle shaft. Experimental results from steering an asymmetric-tip needle in artificial tissue demonstrate the effectiveness of the system and its sensitivity to various environmental and control parameters. In addition, we show an example of needle steering in ex vivo biological tissue to accomplish a clinically relevant task, and highlight challenges of practical needle steering implementation. PMID:23028210

Geographical and climatic limits of needle types of one- and two-needled pinyon pines

USGS Publications Warehouse

Cole, K.L.; Fisher, J.; Arundel, S.T.; Cannella, J.; Swift, S.

2008-01-01

Aim: The geographical extent and climatic tolerances of one- and two-needled pinyon pines (Pinus subsect. Cembroides) are the focus of questions in taxonomy, palaeoclimatology and modelling of future distributions. The identification of these pines, traditionally classified by one- versus two-needled fascicles, is complicated by populations with both one- and two-needled fascicles on the same tree, and the description of two more recently described one-needled varieties: the fallax-type and californiarum-type. Because previous studies have suggested correlations between needle anatomy and climate, including anatomical plasticity reflecting annual precipitation, we approached this study at the level of the anatomy of individual pine needles rather than species. Location: Western North America. Methods: We synthesized available and new data from field and herbarium collections of needles to compile maps of their current distributions across western North America. Annual frequencies of needle types were compared with local precipitation histories for some stands. Historical North American climates were modelled on a c. 1-km grid using monthly temperature and precipitation values. A geospatial model (ClimLim), which analyses the effect of climate-modulated physiological and ecosystem processes, was used to rank the importance of seasonal climate variables in limiting the distributions of anatomical needle types. Results: The pinyon needles were classified into four distinct types based upon the number of needles per fascicle, needle thickness and the number of stomatal rows and resin canals. The individual needles fit well into four categories of needle types, whereas some trees exhibit a mixture of two needle types. Trees from central Arizona containing a mixture of Pinus edulis and fallax-type needles increased their percentage of fallax-type needles following dry years. All four needle types occupy broader geographical regions with distinctive precipitation regimes

Mini-P-gp and P-gp Co-Expression in Brown Trout Erythrocytes: A Prospective Blood Biomarker of Aquatic Pollution

PubMed Central

Valton, Emeline; Amblard, Christian; Desmolles, François; Combourieu, Bruno; Penault-Llorca, Frédérique; Bamdad, Mahchid

2015-01-01

In aquatic organisms, such as fish, blood is continually exposed to aquatic contaminants. Multidrug Resistance (MDR) proteins are ubiquitous detoxification membrane pumps, which recognize various xenobiotics. Moreover, their expression is induced by a large class of drugs and pollutants. We have highlighted the co-expression of a mini P-gp of 75 kDa and a P-gp of 140 kDa in the primary culture of brown trout erythrocytes and in the erythrocytes of wild brown trout collected from three rivers in the Auvergne region of France. In vitro experiments showed that benzo[a]pyrene, a highly toxic pollutant model, induced the co-expression of mini-P-gp and P-gp in trout erythrocytes in a dose-dependent manner and relay type response. Similarly, in the erythrocytes of wild brown trout collected from rivers contaminated by a mixture of PAH and other multi-residues of pesticides, mini-P-gp and P-gp were able to modulate their expression, according to the nature of the pollutants. The differential and complementary responses of mini-P-gp and P-gp in trout erythrocytes suggest the existence in blood cells of a real protective network against xenobiotics/drugs. This property could be exploited to develop a blood biomarker of river pollution. PMID:26854141

Mycobacterium ulcerans low infectious dose and mechanical transmission support insect bites and puncturing injuries in the spread of Buruli ulcer.

PubMed

Wallace, John R; Mangas, Kirstie M; Porter, Jessica L; Marcsisin, Renee; Pidot, Sacha J; Howden, Brian; Omansen, Till F; Zeng, Weiguang; Axford, Jason K; Johnson, Paul D R; Stinear, Timothy P

2017-04-01

Addressing the transmission enigma of the neglected disease Buruli ulcer (BU) is a World Health Organization priority. In Australia, we have observed an association between mosquitoes harboring the causative agent, Mycobacterium ulcerans, and BU. Here we tested a contaminated skin model of BU transmission by dipping the tails from healthy mice in cultures of the causative agent, Mycobacterium ulcerans. Tails were exposed to mosquito (Aedes notoscriptus and Aedes aegypti) blood feeding or punctured with sterile needles. Two of 12 of mice with M. ulcerans contaminated tails exposed to feeding A. notoscriptus mosquitoes developed BU. There were no mice exposed to A. aegypti that developed BU. Eighty-eight percent of mice (21/24) subjected to contaminated tail needle puncture developed BU. Mouse tails coated only in bacteria did not develop disease. A median incubation time of 12 weeks, consistent with data from human infections, was noted. We then specifically tested the M. ulcerans infectious dose-50 (ID50) in this contaminated skin surface infection model with needle puncture and observed an ID50 of 2.6 colony-forming units. We have uncovered a biologically plausible mechanical transmission mode of BU via natural or anthropogenic skin punctures.

Neutralizing Epitopes in the Membrane-Proximal External Region of HIV-1 gp41 Are Influenced by the Transmembrane Domain and the Plasma Membrane

PubMed Central

Montero, Marinieve; Klaric, Kristina-Ana; Donald, Jason E.; Lepik, Christa; Wu, Sampson; Tsai, Sue; Julien, Jean-Philippe; Hessell, Ann J.; Wang, Shixia; Lu, Shan; Burton, Dennis R.; Pai, Emil F.; DeGrado, William F.

2012-01-01

Failure to elicit broadly neutralizing (bNt) antibodies (Abs) against the membrane-proximal external region of HIV-1 gp41 (MPER) reflects the difficulty of mimicking its neutralization-competent structure (NCS). Here, we analyzed MPER antigenicity in the context of the plasma membrane and identified a role for the gp41 transmembrane domain (TM) in exposing the epitopes of three bNt monoclonal Abs (MAbs) (2F5, 4E10, and Z13e1). We transiently expressed DNA constructs encoding gp41 ectodomain fragments fused to either the TM of the platelet-derived growth factor receptor (PDGFR) or the gp41 TM and cytoplasmic tail domain (CT). Constructs encoding the MPER tethered to the gp41 TM followed by a 27-residue CT fragment (MPER-TM1) produced optimal MAb binding. Critical binding residues for the three Nt MAbs were identified using a panel of 24 MPER-TM1 mutants bearing single amino acid substitutions in the MPER; many were previously shown to affect MAb-mediated viral neutralization. Moreover, non-Nt mutants of MAbs 2F5 and 4E10 exhibited a reduction in binding to MPER-TM1 and yet maintained binding to synthetic MPER peptides, indicating that MPER-TM1 better approximates the MPER NCS than peptides. Replacement of the gp41 TM and CT of MPER-TM1 with the PDGFR TM reduced binding by MAb 4E10, but not 2F5, indicating that the gp41 TM plays a pivotal role in orienting the 4E10 epitope, and more globally, in affecting MPER exposure. PMID:22238313

Lamellar keratoplasty using position-guided surgical needle and M-mode optical coherence tomography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shin, Sungwon; Bae, Jung Kweon; Ahn, Yujin; Kim, Hyeongeun; Choi, Geonho; Yoo, Young-Sik; Joo, Choun-Ki; Moon, Sucbei; Jung, Woonggyu

2017-12-01

Deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty (DALK) is an emerging surgical technique for the restoration of corneal clarity and vision acuity. The big-bubble technique in DALK surgery is the most essential procedure that includes the air injection through a thin syringe needle to separate the dysfunctional region of the cornea. Even though DALK is a well-known transplant method, it is still challenged to manipulate the needle inside the cornea under the surgical microscope, which varies its surgical yield. Here, we introduce the DALK protocol based on the position-guided needle and M-mode optical coherence tomography (OCT). Depth-resolved 26-gage needle was specially designed, fabricated by the stepwise transitional core fiber, and integrated with the swept source OCT system. Since our device is feasible to provide both the position information inside the cornea as well as air injection, it enables the accurate management of bubble formation during DALK. Our results show that real-time feedback of needle end position was intuitionally visualized and fast enough to adjust the location of the needle. Through our research, we realized that position-guided needle combined with M-mode OCT is a very efficient and promising surgical tool, which also to enhance the accuracy and stability of DALK.

Template-directed synthesis on the pentanucleotide CpCpGpCpC

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Inoue, T.; Joyce, G. F.; Grzeskowiak, K.; Orgel, L. E.; Brown, J. M.; Reese, C. B.

1984-01-01

Experiments in which CpCpGpCpC is used as a template to facilitate the co-oligomerization of 2-MeImpG and 2-MeImpC are described. It is shown that 3' to 5' prime-linked pGpGpCpGpG, whose sequence is complementary to that of the template, is substantially the most adundant pentameric product of the template-directed reaction. The yield of pGpGpCpGpG is never large (less than 20 percent), presumably becauase off-template reactions consume template-directed products. Thus pGpGpCpGpG is converted to the various isomers of G5C and G4C2 by off-template terminal addition of G or C. The 3' to 5' isomer of GpG is elongated on the template to give GpGpC, GpGpCpG, and GpGpCpGpG, while the 2' to 5' isomer does not initiate the synthesis of detectable amounts of longer oligomers.

Transbronchial needle aspiration with a new electromagnetically-tracked TBNA needle

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Choi, Jae; Popa, Teo; Gruionu, Lucian

2009-02-01

Transbronchial needle aspiration (TBNA) is a common method used to collect tissue for diagnosis of different chest diseases and for staging lung cancer, but the procedure has technical limitations. These limitations are mostly related to the difficulty of accurately placing the biopsy needles into the target mass. Currently, pulmonologists plan TBNA by examining a number of Computed Tomography (CT) scan slices before the operation. Then, they manipulate the bronchoscope down the respiratory track and blindly direct the biopsy. Thus, the biopsy success rate is low. The diagnostic yield of TBNA is approximately 70 percent. To enhance the accuracy of TBNA, we developed a TBNA needle with a tip position that can be electromagnetically tracked. The needle was used to estimate the bronchoscope's tip position and enable the creation of corresponding virtual bronchoscopic images from a preoperative CT scan. The TBNA needle was made with a flexible catheter embedding Wang Transbronchial Histology Needle and a sensor tracked by electromagnetic field generator. We used Aurora system for electromagnetic tracking. We also constructed an image-guided research prototype system incorporating the needle and providing a user-friendly interface to assist the pulmonologist in targeting lesions. To test the feasibility of the accuracy of the newly developed electromagnetically-tracked needle, a phantom study was conducted in the interventional suite at Georgetown University Hospital. Five TBNA simulations with a custom-made phantom with a bronchial tree were performed. The experimental results show that our device has potential to enhance the accuracy of TBNA.

Evaluation of 8.0-cm needle at the fourth anterior axillary line for needle chest decompression of tension pneumothorax.

PubMed

Chang, Samuel J; Ross, Samuel Wade; Kiefer, David J; Anderson, William E; Rogers, Amelia T; Sing, Ronald F; Callaway, David W

2014-04-01

Five-centimeter needles at the second intercostal space midclavicular line (2MCL) have high failure rates for decompression of tension pneumothorax. This study evaluates 8-cm needles directed at the fourth intercostal space anterior axillary line (4AAL). Retrospective radiographic analysis of 100 consecutive trauma patients 18 years or older from January to September 2011. Measurements of chest wall thickness (CWT) and depth to vital structure (DVS) were obtained at 2MCL and 4AAL. 4AAL measurements were taken based on two angles: closest vital structure and perpendicular to the chest wall. Primary outcome measures were radiographic decompression (RD) (defined as CWT < 80 mm) and radiographic noninjury (RNI) (DVS > 80 mm) of 8-cm needles at 4AAL. Secondary outcome measures are effect of angle of entry on RNI at 4AAL, RD and RNI of 8-cm needles at 2MCL, and comparison of 5-cm needles with 8-cm needles at both locations. Eighty-four percent of the patients were male, with mean Injury Severity Score (ISS) of 17.7 (range, 1.0-66.0) and body mass index of 26.8 (16.5-48.4). Mean CWT at 4AAL ranged from 37.6 mm to 39.9 mm, significantly thinner than mean CWT at 2MCL (43.3-46.7 mm). Eight-centimeter needle RD was more than 96% at both 4AAL and 2MCL. Five-centimeter RD ranged from 66% to 81% at all sites. Mean DVS at 4AAL ranged from 91.8 mm to 128.0 mm. RNI at all sites was more than 91% except at left 4AAL, when taken to the closest vital structure (mean DVS, 91.8 mm), with 68% RNI. Perpendicular entry increased DVS to 109.4 mm and subsequent RNI to 91%. Five-centimeter RNI at all sites was more than 99%. CWT at 4AAL is significantly thinner than 2MCL. Based on radiographic measurements, 8-cm catheters have a higher chance of pleural decompression when compared with 5-cm catheters. Steeper angle of entry at 4AAL improves 8-cm noninjury rates to more than 91%. Therapeutic/care management study, level IV.

Yellow fever 17D-vectored vaccines expressing Lassa virus GP1 and GP2 glycoproteins provide protection against fatal disease in guinea pigs.

PubMed

Jiang, Xiaohong; Dalebout, Tim J; Bredenbeek, Peter J; Carrion, Ricardo; Brasky, Kathleen; Patterson, Jean; Goicochea, Marco; Bryant, Joseph; Salvato, Maria S; Lukashevich, Igor S

2011-02-01

Yellow Fever (YF) and Lassa Fever (LF) are two prevalent hemorrhagic fevers co-circulating in West Africa and responsible for thousands of deaths annually. The YF vaccine 17D has been used as a vector for the Lassa virus glycoprotein precursor (LASV-GPC) or their subunits, GP1 (attachment glycoprotein) and GP2 (fusion glycoprotein). Cloning shorter inserts, LASV-GP1 and -GP2, between YF17D E and NS1 genes enhanced genetic stability of recombinant viruses, YF17D/LASV-GP1 and -GP2, in comparison with YF17D/LASV-GPC recombinant. The recombinant viruses were replication competent and properly processed YF proteins and LASV GP antigens in infected cells. YF17D/LASV-GP1 and -GP2 induced specific CD8+ T cell responses in mice and protected strain 13 guinea pigs against fatal LF. Unlike immunization with live attenuated reassortant vaccine ML29, immunization with YF17D/LASV-GP1 and -GP2 did not provide sterilizing immunity. This study demonstrates the feasibility of YF17D-based vaccine to control LF in West Africa. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Yellow fever 17D-vectored vaccines expressing Lassa virus GP1 and GP2 glycoproteins provide protection against fatal disease in guinea pigs

PubMed Central

Jiang, Xiaohong; Dalebout, Tim J.; Bredenbeek, Peter J.; Carrion, Ricardo; Brasky, Kathleen; Patterson, Jean; Goicochea, Marco; Bryant, Joseph; Salvato, Maria S.; Lukashevich, Igor S.

2010-01-01

Yellow Fever (YF) and Lassa Fever (LF) are two prevalent hemorrhagic fevers co-circulating in West Africa and responsible for thousands of deaths annually. The YF vaccine 17D has been used as a vector for the Lassa virus glycoprotein precursor (LASV-GPC) or their subunits, GP1 (attachment glycoprotein) and GP2 (fusion glycoprotein). Cloning shorter inserts, LASV GP1 and GP2, between YF17D E and NS1 genes enhanced genetic stability of recombinant viruses, YF17D/LASV-GP1 and –GP2, in comparison with YF17D/LASV-GPC recombinant. The recombinant viruses were replication competent and properly processed YF and LASV GP proteins in infected cells. YF17D/LASV-GP1&GP2 induced specific CD8+ T cell responses in mice and protected strain 13 guinea pigs against fatal LF. Unlike immunization with live attenuated reassortant vaccine ML29, immunization with YF17D/LASV-GP1&GP2 did not provide sterilizing immunity. This study demonstrates the feasibility of YF17D-based vaccine to control LF in West Africa. PMID:21145373

14 CFR 27.1565 - Tail rotor.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... 14 Aeronautics and Space 1 2013-01-01 2013-01-01 false Tail rotor. 27.1565 Section 27.1565 Aeronautics and Space FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION AIRCRAFT AIRWORTHINESS... conditions. [Amdt. 27-2, 33 FR 965, Jan. 26, 1968] Rotorcraft Flight Manual and Approved Manual Material ...

14 CFR 27.1565 - Tail rotor.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... 14 Aeronautics and Space 1 2014-01-01 2014-01-01 false Tail rotor. 27.1565 Section 27.1565 Aeronautics and Space FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION AIRCRAFT AIRWORTHINESS... conditions. [Amdt. 27-2, 33 FR 965, Jan. 26, 1968] Rotorcraft Flight Manual and Approved Manual Material ...

14 CFR 27.1565 - Tail rotor.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... 14 Aeronautics and Space 1 2011-01-01 2011-01-01 false Tail rotor. 27.1565 Section 27.1565 Aeronautics and Space FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION AIRCRAFT AIRWORTHINESS... conditions. [Amdt. 27-2, 33 FR 965, Jan. 26, 1968] Rotorcraft Flight Manual and Approved Manual Material ...

14 CFR 27.1565 - Tail rotor.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... 14 Aeronautics and Space 1 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Tail rotor. 27.1565 Section 27.1565 Aeronautics and Space FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION AIRCRAFT AIRWORTHINESS... conditions. [Amdt. 27-2, 33 FR 965, Jan. 26, 1968] Rotorcraft Flight Manual and Approved Manual Material ...

14 CFR 27.1565 - Tail rotor.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... 14 Aeronautics and Space 1 2012-01-01 2012-01-01 false Tail rotor. 27.1565 Section 27.1565 Aeronautics and Space FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION AIRCRAFT AIRWORTHINESS... conditions. [Amdt. 27-2, 33 FR 965, Jan. 26, 1968] Rotorcraft Flight Manual and Approved Manual Material ...

Identification and Characterization of a Broadly Cross-Reactive HIV-1 Human Monoclonal Antibody That Binds to Both gp120 and gp41

PubMed Central

Zhang, Mei-Yun; Yuan, Tingting; Li, Jingjing; Rosa Borges, Andrew; Watkins, Jennifer D.; Guenaga, Javier; Yang, Zheng; Wang, Yanping; Wilson, Richard; Li, Yuxing; Polonis, Victoria R.; Pincus, Seth H.; Ruprecht, Ruth M.; Dimitrov, Dimiter S.

2012-01-01

Identification of broadly cross-reactive HIV-1-neutralizing antibodies (bnAbs) may assist vaccine immunogen design. Here we report a novel human monoclonal antibody (mAb), designated m43, which co-targets the gp120 and gp41 subunits of the HIV-1 envelope glycoprotein (Env). M43 bound to recombinant gp140 s from various primary isolates, to membrane-associated Envs on transfected cells and HIV-1 infected cells, as well as to recombinant gp120 s and gp41 fusion intermediate structures containing N-trimer structure, but did not bind to denatured recombinant gp140 s and the CD4 binding site (CD4bs) mutant, gp120 D368R, suggesting that the m43 epitope is conformational and overlaps the CD4bs on gp120 and the N-trimer structure on gp41. M43 neutralized 34% of the HIV-1 primary isolates from different clades and all the SHIVs tested in assays based on infection of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) by replication-competent virus, but was less potent in cell line-based pseudovirus assays. In contrast to CD4, m43 did not induce Env conformational changes upon binding leading to exposure of the coreceptor binding site, enhanced binding of mAbs 2F5 and 4E10 specific for the membrane proximal external region (MPER) of gp41 Envs, or increased gp120 shedding. The overall modest neutralization activity of m43 is likely due to the limited binding of m43 to functional Envs which could be increased by antibody engineering if needed. M43 may represent a new class of bnAbs targeting conformational epitopes overlapping structures on both gp120 and gp41. Its novel epitope and possibly new mechanism(s) of neutralization could helpdesign improved vaccine immunogens and candidate therapeutics. PMID:22970187

gp-91 mediates histone deacetylase inhibition-induced cardioprotection

PubMed Central

Zhao, Ting C; Zhang, Ling X; Cheng, Guangmao; Liu, Jun T

2010-01-01

We have recently shown that the inhibition of histone deacetylases (HDAC) protects the heart against ischemia and reperfusion (I/R) injury. The mechanism by which HDAC inhibition induces cardioprotection remains unknown. We sought to investigate whether the genetic disruption of gp-91, a subunit of NADPH-oxidase, would mitigate cardioprotection of HDAC inhibition. Wild-type and gp-91−/− mice were treated with a potent inhibitor of HDACs, trichostatin A (TSA, 0.1mg/kg, i.p.). Twenty-four hours later, the perfused hearts were subjected to 30 min of ischemia and 30 min of reperfusion. HDAC inhibition in wild-type mice produced marked improvements in ventricular functional recovery and the reduction of infarct size. TSA-induced cardioprotection was eliminated with genetic deletion of gp91. Notably, Western blot and immunostaining displayed a significant increase in gp-91 in myocardium following HDAC inhibition, which resulted in a mildly subsequent increase in the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). The pretreatment of H9c2 cardiomyoblasts with TSA (50 nmol/L) decreased cell necrosis and increased viability in response to simulated ischemia (SI), which was abrogated by the transfection of cells with gp-91 siRNA, but not by scrambled siRNA. Furthermore, treatment of PLB-985 gp91+/+cells with TSA increased the resistance to SI, which also diminished with genetic disruption of gp91 in gp91phox-deficient PLB-985 cells. TSA treatment inhibited the increased active caspase-3 in H9c2 cardiomyoblasts and PLB-985 gp91+/+cells exposed to SI, which were prevented by knockdown of gp-91 by siRNA. These results suggest that a cascade consisting of gp-91 and HDAC inhibition plays an essential role in orchestrating the cardioprotective effect. PMID:20433879

Enhanced Immune Responses to HIV-1 Envelope Elicited by a Vaccine Regimen Consisting of Priming with Newcastle Disease Virus Expressing HIV gp160 and Boosting with gp120 and SOSIP gp140 Proteins.

PubMed

Khattar, Sunil K; DeVico, Anthony L; LaBranche, Celia C; Panda, Aruna; Montefiori, David C; Samal, Siba K

2016-02-01

Newcastle disease virus (NDV) expressing HIV-1 BaL gp160 was evaluated either alone or with monomeric BaL gp120 and BaL SOSIP gp140 protein in a prime-boost combination in guinea pigs to enhance envelope (Env)-specific humoral and mucosal immune responses. We showed that a regimen consisting of an NDV prime followed by a protein boost elicited stronger serum and mucosal Th-1-biased IgG responses and neutralizing antibody responses than NDV-only immunizations. Additionally, these responses were higher after the gp120 than after the SOSIP gp140 protein boost. Copyright © 2016, American Society for Microbiology. All Rights Reserved.

Teleoperated master-slave needle insertion.

PubMed

Abolhassani, Niki; Patel, Rajni V

2009-12-01

Accuracy of needle tip placement and needle tracking in soft tissue are of particular importance in many medical procedures. In recent years, developing autonomous and teleoperated systems for needle insertion has become an active area of research. In this study, needle insertion was performed using a master-slave set-up with multi-degrees of freedom. The effect of force feedback on the accuracy of needle insertion was investigated. In addition, this study compared autonomous, teleoperated and semi-autonomous needle insertion. The results of this study show that incorporation of force feedback can improve teleoperated needle insertion. However, autonomous and semi-autonomous needle insertions, which use feedback from a deflection model, provide significantly better performance. Development of a haptic master-slave needle insertion system, which is capable of performing some autonomous tasks based on feedback from tissue deformation and needle deflection models, can improve the performance of autonomous robotics-based insertions as well as non-autonomous teleoperated manual insertions. Copyright (c) 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Ultrasound-guided percutaneous fine-needle aspiration of 545 focal pancreatic lesions.

PubMed

Zamboni, Giulia A; D'Onofrio, Mirko; Idili, Antonio; Malagò, Roberto; Iozzia, Roberta; Manfrin, Erminia; Mucelli, Roberto Pozzi

2009-12-01

The purpose of this study was to assess the accuracy and short-term complication rate of ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration cytologic sampling of focal pancreatic lesions. We reviewed 545 consecutive ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration cytologic sampling procedures for focal pancreatic lesions from January 2004 through June 2008. The procedures were performed with a 20- or 21-gauge needle. The onsite cytopathologist evaluated the appropriateness of the sample and made a diagnosis. We reviewed the final diagnosis and the radiologic and medical records of all patients for onset of complications during or within 7 days of the procedure. The study sample included 262 women and 283 men (mean age, 62 years; range, 25-86 years). The head or uncinate process of the pancreas was the location of 63.0% of the lesions, and 35.2% of the lesions were located in the body or tail of the pancreas. The site of 10 lesions (1.8%) was not specified. Sampling was diagnostic in 509 of the 545 cases (93.4%). Excluding the 36 nondiagnostic samples, ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration cytologic sampling had 99.4% sensitivity, 100% specificity, and 99.4% accuracy. In 537 of the 545 cases (98.5%), the procedure was uneventful. In two cases, abdominal fluid was found after the procedure that was not present before the procedure. Six patients experienced postprocedural pain without abnormal findings at subsequent imaging. No major complications occurred. Ultrasound-guided cytologic sampling is safe and accurate for the diagnosis and planning of management of focal pancreatic lesions. With a cytologist on site, the rate of acquisition of samples adequate for diagnosis is high, reducing the need for patient recall.

SLC26 anion exchangers of guinea pig pancreatic duct: molecular cloning and functional characterization

PubMed Central

Stewart, Andrew K.; Shmukler, Boris E.; Vandorpe, David H.; Reimold, Fabian; Heneghan, John F.; Nakakuki, M.; Akhavein, Arash; Ko, Shigeru; Ishiguro, Hiroshi

2011-01-01

The secretin-stimulated human pancreatic duct secretes HCO3−-rich fluid essential for normal digestion. Optimal stimulation of pancreatic HCO3− secretion likely requires coupled activities of the cystic fibrosis transmembrane regulator (CFTR) anion channel and apical SLC26 Cl−/HCO3− exchangers. However, whereas stimulated human and guinea pig pancreatic ducts secrete ∼140 mM HCO3− or more, mouse and rat ducts secrete ∼40–70 mM HCO3−. Moreover, the axial distribution and physiological roles of SLC26 anion exchangers in pancreatic duct secretory processes remain controversial and may vary among mammalian species. Thus the property of high HCO3− secretion shared by human and guinea pig pancreatic ducts prompted us to clone from guinea pig pancreatic duct cDNAs encoding Slc26a3, Slc26a6, and Slc26a11 polypeptides. We then functionally characterized these anion transporters in Xenopus oocytes and human embryonic kidney (HEK) 293 cells. In Xenopus oocytes, gpSlc26a3 mediated only Cl−/Cl− exchange and electroneutral Cl−/HCO3− exchange. gpSlc26a6 in Xenopus oocytes mediated Cl−/Cl− exchange and bidirectional exchange of Cl− for oxalate and sulfate, but Cl−/HCO3− exchange was detected only in HEK 293 cells. gpSlc26a11 in Xenopus oocytes exhibited pH-dependent Cl−, oxalate, and sulfate transport but no detectable Cl−/HCO3− exchange. The three gpSlc26 anion transporters exhibited distinct pharmacological profiles of 36Cl− influx, including partial sensitivity to CFTR inhibitors Inh-172 and GlyH101, but only Slc26a11 was inhibited by PPQ-102. This first molecular and functional assessment of recombinant SLC26 anion transporters from guinea pig pancreatic duct enhances our understanding of pancreatic HCO3− secretion in species that share a high HCO3− secretory output. PMID:21593449

Critical review and hydrologic application of threshold detection methods for the generalized Pareto (GP) distribution

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mamalakis, Antonios; Langousis, Andreas; Deidda, Roberto

2016-04-01

Estimation of extreme rainfall from data constitutes one of the most important issues in statistical hydrology, as it is associated with the design of hydraulic structures and flood water management. To that extent, based on asymptotic arguments from Extreme Excess (EE) theory, several studies have focused on developing new, or improving existing methods to fit a generalized Pareto (GP) distribution model to rainfall excesses above a properly selected threshold u. The latter is generally determined using various approaches, such as non-parametric methods that are intended to locate the changing point between extreme and non-extreme regions of the data, graphical methods where one studies the dependence of GP distribution parameters (or related metrics) on the threshold level u, and Goodness of Fit (GoF) metrics that, for a certain level of significance, locate the lowest threshold u that a GP distribution model is applicable. In this work, we review representative methods for GP threshold detection, discuss fundamental differences in their theoretical bases, and apply them to 1714 daily rainfall records from the NOAA-NCDC open-access database, with more than 110 years of data. We find that non-parametric methods that are intended to locate the changing point between extreme and non-extreme regions of the data are generally not reliable, while methods that are based on asymptotic properties of the upper distribution tail lead to unrealistically high threshold and shape parameter estimates. The latter is justified by theoretical arguments, and it is especially the case in rainfall applications, where the shape parameter of the GP distribution is low; i.e. on the order of 0.1 ÷ 0.2. Better performance is demonstrated by graphical methods and GoF metrics that rely on pre-asymptotic properties of the GP distribution. For daily rainfall, we find that GP threshold estimates range between 2÷12 mm/d with a mean value of 6.5 mm/d, while the existence of quantization in the

Chemical synthesis of 5'-pyrophosphate and triphosphate derivatives of 3'-5' ApA, ApG, GpA and GpG. CD study of the effect of 5'-phosphate groups on the conformation of 3'-5' GpG.

PubMed Central

Tomasz, J; Simoncsits, A; Kajtár, M; Krug, R M; Shatkin, A J

1978-01-01

A simple, two-step method is described for the synthesis of the 5'-pyro- and triphosphate derivatives of 3'-5' ApA, ApG, GpA and GpG. The readily accessible 2'(3')-5' ApA, ApG, GpA and GpG were converted in one step to the corresponding 5'-phosphoramidate derivatives which were then transformed to the 5'-pyro- and triphosphates. CD spectra of 3'-5' pn GpG (n = 0,1,2 or 3) derivatives, measured at pH 1, indicated stabilization of the (syn) G+p (anti)G conformation by the 5'-phosphate groups. PMID:211490

Ex vivo biomechanical characterization of syringe-needle ejections for intracerebral cell delivery.

PubMed

Wahlberg, Brendon; Ghuman, Harmanvir; Liu, Jessie R; Modo, Michel

2018-06-15

Intracerebral implantation of cell suspensions is finding its clinical translation with encouraging results in patients with stroke. However, the survival of cells in the brain remains poor. Although the biological potential of neural stem cells (NSCs) is widely documented, the biomechanical effects of delivering cells through a syringe-needle remain poorly understood. We here detailed the biomechanical forces (pressure, shear stress) that cells are exposed to during ejection through different sized needles (20G, 26G, 32G) and syringes (10, 50, 250 µL) at relevant flow rates (1, 5, 10 µL/min). A comparison of 3 vehicles, Phosphate Buffered Saline (PBS), Hypothermosol (HTS), and Pluronic, indicated that less viscous vehicles are favorable for suspension with a high cell volume fraction to minimize sedimentation. Higher suspension viscosity was associated with greater shear stress. Higher flow rates with viscous vehicle, such as HTS reduced viability by ~10% and also produced more apoptotic cells (28%). At 5 µL/min ejection using a 26G needle increased neuronal differentiation for PBS and HTS suspensions. These results reveal the biological impact of biomechanical forces in the cell delivery process. Appropriate engineering strategies can be considered to mitigate these effects to ensure the efficacious translation of this promising therapy.

Uncoupling GP1 and GP2 Expression in the Lassa Virus Glycoprotein Complex: Implications for GPI Ectodomain Shedding

DTIC Science & Technology

2008-12-23

glycoprotein precursor (GPC) signal peptide (SP) or human IgG signal sequences (s.s.). GP2 was secreted from cells only when (1) the transmembrane (TM) domain...consistent with viral TM fusion proteins [9,10]. GPC con- tains a 58 residue hydrophobic N-terminal signal peptide (SP), which directs the precursor to the...including GPC, GP1, and GP2. Various signal peptides , purification tags, and modifications to internal domains were employed for the generation and

Effect and Safety of Deep Needling and Shallow Needling for Functional Constipation

PubMed Central

Wu, Jiani; Liu, Baoyan; Li, Ning; Sun, Jianhua; Wang, Lingling; Wang, Liping; Cai, Yuying; Ye, Yongming; Liu, Jun; Wang, Yang; Liu, Zhishun

2014-01-01

Abstract Aupuncture is widely used for functional constipation. Effect of acupuncture might be related to the depth of needling; however, the evidence is limited. This trial aimed to evaluate the effect and safety of deep needling and shallow needling for functional constipation, and to assess if the deep needling and shallow needling are superior to lactulose. We conducted a prospective, superiority-design, 5-center, 3-arm randomized controlled trial. A total of 475 patients with functional constipation were randomized to the deep needling group (237), shallow needling group (119), and lactulose-controlled group (119) in a ratio of 2:1:1. Sessions lasted 30 minutes each time and took place 5 times a week for 4 weeks in 2 acupuncture groups. Participants in the lactulose group took lactulose orally for 16 continuous weeks. The primary outcome was the change from baseline of mean weekly spontaneous bowel movements (SBMs) during week 1 to 4 (changes from the baselines of the weekly SBMs at week 8 and week 16 in follow-up period were also assessed simultaneously). Secondary outcomes were the weekly SBMs of each assessing week, the mean score change from the baseline of constipation-related symptoms over week 1 to 4, and the time to the first SBM. Emergency drug usage and adverse effects were monitored throughout the study. SBMs and constipation-related symptoms were all improved in the 3 groups compared with baseline at each time frame (P < 0.01, all). The changes in the mean weekly SBMs over week 1 to 4 were 2 (1.75) in the deep needling group, 2 (1.75) in the shallow needling group, and 2 (2) in the lactulose group (P > 0.05, both compared with the lactulose group). The changes of mean weekly SBMs at week 8 and week 16 in the follow-up period were 2 (2), 2 (2.5) in the deep needling group, 2 (3), 1.5 (2.5) in the shallow needling group, and 1 (2), 1 (2) in the lactulose group (P < 0.05, all compared with the lactulose group). No significant difference

[Tonsillotomy with the argon-supported monopolar needle--first clinical results].

PubMed

Huber, K; Sadick, H; Maurer, J T; Hörmann, K; Hammerschmitt, N

2005-09-01

Primary management of tonsillar hyperplasia in children is tonsillectomy. Recent data from clinical case-series are clearly in support of the hypothesis that tonsillotomy with the CO2-laser seems to be effective and is noted to have less postoperative bleeding and less pain as compared to tonsillectomy. For the first time we used a monopolar argon-supported needle for tonsillotomy in the following study. Fifty patients (age: 4.58 years; SD +/- 2.33) with benign tonsillar hyperplasia were recruited. For tonsillotomy we used the monopolar argon-supported needle. The outcome measures were postoperative pain, capability of oral intake, consumption of analgesics and postoperative bleeding. No postoperative bleeding occurred. Post-operative pain hardly occurred and could easily be controlled. The third postoperative day analgesics intake was under one portion per day (mean: 0.91; SD +/- 1.26). Capability of oral intake and swallowing was normal on the seventh postoperative day. It was concluded that tonsillotomy, using the monopolar argon-supported needle, is a valid treatment for benign tonsillar hyperplasia in children, which can be performed with slight post-operative pain and a low risk for postoperative bleeding. It offers good dissection and haemostasis abilities. Compared to the CO2-laser the monopolar argon-supported needle does not require any laser safety precautions.

Percutaneous transgastric computed tomography-guided biopsy of the pancreas using large needles

PubMed Central

Tseng, Hsiuo-Shan; Chen, Chia-Yuen; Chan, Wing P; Chiang, Jen-Huey

2009-01-01

AIM: To assess the safety, yield and clinical utility of percutaneous transgastric computed tomography (CT)-guided biopsy of pancreatic tumor using large needles, in selected patients. METHODS: We reviewed 34 CT-guided biopsies in patients with pancreas mass, of whom 24 (71%) had a direct path to the mass without passing through a major organ. The needle passed through the liver in one case (3%). Nine passes (26%) were made through the stomach. These nine transgastric biopsies which used a coaxial technique (i.e. a 17-gauge coaxial introducer needle and an 18-gauge biopsy needle) were the basis of this study. Immediate and late follow-up CT images to detect complications were obtained. RESULTS: Tumor tissues were obtained in nine pancreatic biopsies, and histologic specimens for diagnosis were obtained in all cases. One patient, who had a rare sarcomatoid carcinoma, received a second biopsy. One patient had a complication of transient pneumoperitoneum but no subjective complaints. An immediate imaging study and clinical follow-up detected neither hemorrhage nor peritonitis. No delayed procedure-related complication was seen during the survival period of our patients. CONCLUSION: Pancreatic biopsy can be obtained by a transgastric route using a large needle as an alternative method, without complications of peritonitis or bleeding. PMID:20014462

Effect of Needle Size in Ultrasound-guided Core Needle Breast Biopsy: Comparison of 14-, 16-, and 18-Gauge Needles.

PubMed

Giuliani, Michela; Rinaldi, Pierluigi; Rella, Rossella; Fabrizi, Gina; Petta, Federica; Carlino, Giorgio; Di Leone, Alba; Mulè, Antonino; Bufi, Enida; Romani, Maurizio; Belli, Paolo; Bonomo, Lorenzo

2017-11-01

The aim of the present study was to assess the diagnostic accuracy of ultrasound-guided core needle biopsy (US-CNB) of breast lesions, comparing smaller needles (16- and 18-gauge) with the 14-gauge needle, and to analyze the lesion characteristics influencing US-CNB diagnostic performance. All the patients provided informed consent before the biopsy procedure. The data from breast lesions that had undergone US-CNB in our institution from January 2011 to January 2015 were retrospectively reviewed. The inclusion criterion was the surgical histopathologic examination findings of the entire lesion or radiologic follow-up data for ≥ 24 months. The exclusion criterion was the use of preoperative neoadjuvant therapy. The US-CNB results were compared with the surgical pathologic results or with the follow-up findings in the 3 needle size groups (14-, 16-, and 18-gauge). The needle size- and lesion characteristic-specific diagnostic accuracy parameters were evaluated. Statistical analysis was performed using a dedicated software program, and P ≤ .01 was considered significant. A total of 1118 US-CNB cases (1042 patients) were included. Of the 1118 cases, 630 (56.3%) were in the 14-gauge group, 136 (12.2%) in the 16-gauge, and 352 (31.5%) in the 18-gauge needle group. Surgery was performed on 800 lesions (71.6%). Of these, 619 were malignant, 77 were high risk, and 104 were benign. The remaining 318 lesions (28.4%) underwent follow-up imaging studies. All the lesions were stable and, therefore, were considered benign. No differences were observed in the diagnostic accuracy parameters among the 3 needle size groups (P > .01). The false-negative rate was greater for lesions < 10 mm (7.2%) (P < .01) but without statistically significant differences among the 3 gauges (P > .01). US-CNB performed with small needles (16 and 18 gauge) had the same diagnostic accuracy as that performed with 14-gauge needles, regardless of the lesion characteristics. Copyright © 2017

Paraesthesia during the needle-through-needle and the double segment technique for combined spinal epidural anaesthesia.

PubMed

Ahn, H J; Choi, D H; Kim, C S

2006-07-01

Paraesthesia during regional anaesthesia is an unpleasant sensation for patients and, more importantly, in some cases it is related to neurological injury. Relatively few studies have been conducted on the frequency of paraesthesia during combined spinal epidural anaesthesia. We compared two combined spinal epidural anaesthesia techniques: the needle-through-needle technique and the double segment technique in this respect. We randomly allocated 116 parturients undergoing elective Caesarean section to receive anaesthesia using one of these techniques. Both techniques were performed using a 27G pencil point needle, an 18G Tuohy needle, and a 20G multiport epidural catheter from the same manufacturer. The overall frequency of paraesthesia was higher in the needle-through-needle technique group (56.9% vs. 31.6%, p = 0.011). The frequency of paraesthesia at spinal needle insertion was 20.7% in the needle-through-needle technique group and 8.8% in the double segment technique group; whereas the frequency of paraesthesia at epidural catheter insertion was 46.6% in the needle-through-needle technique group and 24.6% in the double segment technique group.

CGP lil-gp 2.1;1.02 User's Manual

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Janikow, Cezary Z.; DeWeese, Scott W.

1997-01-01

This document describes extensions provided to lil-gp facilitating dealing with constraints. This document deals specifically with lil-gp 1.02, and the resulting extension is referred to as CGP lil-gp 2.1; 1.02 (the first version is for the extension, the second for the utilized lil-gp version). Unless explicitly needed to avoid confusion, version numbers are omitted.

Physical Properties Of Acupuncture Needles: Do Disposable Acupuncture Needles Break With Normal Use

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-06-01

Lamb shank, which has complexity of tendon, fascia, and bone, was used to mimic human tissue. The needles (n=10) were stressed in the tissue substitute...needles were re-imaged after stressing and visually assessed. RESULTS: Only one manufacturing scuff mark was noted out of 90 needles before stress ...testing. Needles buckled but did not break when they were stressed beyond normal clinical use. No cracks or fractures were noted after stress

Glycosyl-phosphatidylinositol (GPI)-anchored membrane association of the porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus GP4 glycoprotein and its co-localization with CD163 in lipid rafts

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

Du, Yijun; Shandong Key Laboratory of Animal Disease Control and Breeding, Institute of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Jinan; Pattnaik, Asit K.

2012-03-01

The porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) glycoprotein 4 (GP4) resembles a typical type I membrane protein in its structure but lacks a hydrophilic tail at the C-terminus, suggesting that GP4 may be a lipid-anchored membrane protein. Using the human decay-accelerating factor (DAF; CD55), a known glycosyl-phosphatidylinositol (GPI) lipid-anchored protein, chimeric constructs were made to substitute the GPI-anchor domain of DAF with the putative lipid-anchor domain of GP4, and their membrane association and lipase cleavage were determined in cells. The DAF-GP4 fusion protein was transported to the plasma membrane and was cleaved by phosphatidylinositol-specific phospholipase C (PI-PLC), indicating thatmore » the C-terminal domain of GP4 functions as a GPI anchor. Mutational studies for residues adjacent to the GPI modification site and characterization of respective mutant viruses generated from infectious cDNA clones show that the ability of GP4 for membrane association corresponded to virus viability and growth characteristics. The residues T158 ({omega} - 2, where {omega} is the GPI moiety at E160), P159 ({omega} - 1), and M162 ({omega} + 2) of GP4 were determined to be important for virus replication, with M162 being of particular importance for virus infectivity. The complete removal of the peptide-anchor domain in GP4 resulted in a complete loss of virus infectivity. The depletion of cholesterol from the plasma membrane of cells reduced the virus production, suggesting a role of lipid rafts in PRRSV infection. Remarkably, GP4 was found to co-localize with CD163 in the lipid rafts on the plasma membrane. Since CD163 has been reported as a cellular receptor for PRRSV and GP4 has been shown to interact with this receptor, our data implicates an important role of lipid rafts during entry of the virus.« less

Does Needle Rotation Improve Lesion Targeting?

PubMed Central

Badaan, Shadi; Petrisor, Doru; Kim, Chunwoo; Mozer, Pierre; Mazilu, Dumitru; Gruionu, Lucian; Patriciu, Alex; Cleary, Kevin; Stoianovici, Dan

2011-01-01

Background Image-guided robots are manipulators that operate based on medical images. Perhaps the most common class of image-guided robots are robots for needle interventions. Typically, these robots actively position and/or orient a needle guide, but needle insertion is still done by the physician. While this arrangement may have safety advantages and keep the physician in control of needle insertion, actuated needle drivers can incorporate other useful features. Methods We first present a new needle driver that can actively insert and rotate a needle. With this device we investigate the use of needle rotation in controlled in-vitro experiments performed with a specially developed revolving needle driver. Results These experiments show that needle rotation can improve targeting and may reduce errors by as much as 70%. Conclusion The new needle driver provides a unique kinematic architecture that enables insertion with a compact mechanism. Perhaps the most interesting conclusion of the study is that lesions of soft tissue organs may not be perfectly targeted with a needle without using special techniques, either manually or with a robotic device. The results of this study show that needle rotation may be an effective method of reducing targeting errors. PMID:21360796

Construction and immunogenicity of a DNA vaccine coexpressing GP3 and GP5 of genotype-I porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Background The European (EU) genotype of porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (Genotype-I PRRSV) has recently emerged in China. The coexistence of Genotype-I and -II PRRSV strains could cause seriously affect PRRSV diagnosis and management. Current vaccines are not able to protect against PRRSV infection completely and have inherent drawbacks. Thus, genetically engineered vaccines, including DNA vaccine and live vector engineered vaccines, have been developed. This study aimed to determine the enhanced immune responses of mice inoculated with a DNA vaccine coexpressing GP3 and GP5 of a Genotype-I PRRSV. Results To evaluate the immunogenicity of GP3 and GP5 proteins from European-type PRRSV, three DNA vaccines, pVAX1-EU-ORF3-ORF5, pVAX1-EU-ORF3 and pVAX1-EU-ORF5, were constructed, which were based on a Genotype-I LV strain (GenBank ID: M96262). BALB/c mice were immunized with the DNA vaccines; delivered in the form of chitosan-DNA nanoparticles. To increase the efficiency of the vaccine, Quil A (Quillaja) was used as an adjuvant. GP3 and GP5-specific antibodies, neutralizing antibodies and cytokines (IL-2, IL-4, IL-10 and IFN gamma) from the immunized mice sera, and other immune parameters, were examined, including T-cell proliferation responses and subgroups of spleen T-lymphocytes. The results showed that ORF3 and ORF5 proteins of Genotype-I PRRSV induced GP3 and GP5-specific antibodies that could neutralize the virus. The levels of Cytokines IL-2, IL-4, IL-10, and IFN–γ of the experimental groups were significantly higher than those of control groups after booster vaccination (P < 0.05). The production of CD3+CD4+ and CD3+CD8+ T lymphocyte was also induced. T lymphocyte proliferation assays showed that the PRRSV LV strain virus could stimulate the proliferation of T lymphocytes in mice in the experimental group. Conclusions Using Quil A as adjuvant, Genotype-I PRRSV GP3 and GP5 proteins produced good immunogenicity and reactivity. More

GP Workbench Manual: Technical Manual, User's Guide, and Software Guide

USGS Publications Warehouse

Oden, Charles P.; Moulton, Craig W.

2006-01-01

GP Workbench is an open-source general-purpose geophysical data processing software package written primarily for ground penetrating radar (GPR) data. It also includes support for several USGS prototype electromagnetic instruments such as the VETEM and ALLTEM. The two main programs in the package are GP Workbench and GP Wave Utilities. GP Workbench has routines for filtering, gridding, and migrating GPR data; as well as an inversion routine for characterizing UXO (unexploded ordinance) using ALLTEM data. GP Workbench provides two-dimensional (section view) and three-dimensional (plan view or time slice view) processing for GPR data. GP Workbench can produce high-quality graphics for reports when Surfer 8 or higher (Golden Software) is installed. GP Wave Utilities provides a wide range of processing algorithms for single waveforms, such as filtering, correlation, deconvolution, and calculating GPR waveforms. GP Wave Utilities is used primarily for calibrating radar systems and processing individual traces. Both programs also contain research features related to the calibration of GPR systems and calculating subsurface waveforms. The software is written to run on the Windows operating systems. GP Workbench can import GPR data file formats used by major commercial instrument manufacturers including Sensors and Software, GSSI, and Mala. The GP Workbench native file format is SU (Seismic Unix), and subsequently, files generated by GP Workbench can be read by Seismic Unix as well as many other data processing packages.

The consequence of regional gradients of P-gp and CYP3A4 for drug-drug interactions by P-gp inhibitors and the P-gp/CYP3A4 interplay in the human intestine ex vivo.

PubMed

Li, Ming; de Graaf, Inge A M; van de Steeg, Evita; de Jager, Marina H; Groothuis, Geny M M

2017-04-01

Intestinal P-gp and CYP3A4 work coordinately to reduce the intracellular concentration of drugs, and drug-drug interactions (DDIs) based on this interplay are of clinical importance and require pre-clinical investigation. Using precision-cut intestinal slices (PCIS) of human jejunum, ileum and colon, we investigated the P-gp/CYP3A4 interplay and related DDIs with P-gp inhibitors at the different regions of the human intestine with quinidine (Qi), dual substrate of P-gp and CYP3A4, as probe. All the P-gp inhibitors increased the intracellular concentrations of Qi by 2.1-2.6 fold in jejunum, 2.6-3.8 fold in ileum but only 1.2-1.3 fold in colon, in line with the different P-gp expression in these intestinal regions. The selective P-gp inhibitors (CP100356 and PSC833) enhanced 3-hydroxy-quinidine (3OH-Qi) in jejunum and ileum, while dual inhibitors of P-gp and CYP3A4 (verapamil and ketoconazole) decreased the 3OH-Qi production, despite of the increased intracellular Qi concentration, due to inhibition of CYP3A4. The outcome of DDIs based on P-gp/CYP3A4 interplay, shown as remarkable changes in the intracellular concentration of both the parent drug and the metabolite, varied among the intestinal regions, probably due to the different expression of P-gp and CYP3A4, and were different from those found in rat PCIS, which may have important implications for the disposition and toxicity of drugs and their metabolites. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

A novel adaptive needle insertion sequencing for robotic, single needle MR-guided high-dose-rate prostate brachytherapy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Borot de Battisti, M.; de Senneville, B. Denis; Hautvast, G.; Binnekamp, D.; Lagendijk, J. J. W.; Maenhout, M.; Moerland, M. A.

2017-05-01

MR-guided high-dose-rate (HDR) brachytherapy has gained increasing interest as a treatment for patients with localized prostate cancer because of the superior value of MRI for tumor and surrounding tissues localization. To enable needle insertion into the prostate with the patient in the MR bore, a single needle MR-compatible robotic system involving needle-by-needle dose delivery has been developed at our institution. Throughout the intervention, dose delivery may be impaired by: (1) sub-optimal needle positioning caused by e.g. needle bending, (2) intra-operative internal organ motion such as prostate rotations or swelling, or intra-procedural rectum or bladder filling. This may result in failure to reach clinical constraints. To assess the first aforementioned challenge, a recent study from our research group demonstrated that the deposited dose may be greatly improved by real-time adaptive planning with feedback on the actual needle positioning. However, the needle insertion sequence is left to the doctor and therefore, this may result in sub-optimal dose delivery. In this manuscript, a new method is proposed to determine and update automatically the needle insertion sequence. This strategy is based on the determination of the most sensitive needle track. The sensitivity of a needle track is defined as its impact on the dose distribution in case of sub-optimal positioning. A stochastic criterion is thus presented to determine each needle track sensitivity based on needle insertion simulations. To assess the proposed sequencing strategy, HDR prostate brachytherapy was simulated on 11 patients with varying number of needle insertions. Sub-optimal needle positioning was simulated at each insertion (modeled by typical random angulation errors). In 91% of the scenarios, the dose distribution improved when the needle was inserted into the most compared to the least sensitive needle track. The computation time for sequencing was less than 6 s per needle track. The

Dynamics of translational friction in needle-tissue interaction during needle insertion.

PubMed

Asadian, Ali; Patel, Rajni V; Kermani, Mehrdad R

2014-01-01

In this study, a distributed approach to account for dynamic friction during needle insertion in soft tissue is presented. As is well known, friction is a complex nonlinear phenomenon. It appears that classical or static models are unable to capture some of the observations made in systems subjected to significant frictional effects. In needle insertion, translational friction would be a matter of importance when the needle is very flexible, or a stop-and-rotate motion profile at low insertion velocities is implemented, and thus, the system is repeatedly transitioned from a pre-sliding to a sliding mode and vice versa. In order to characterize friction components, a distributed version of the LuGre model in the state-space representation is adopted. This method also facilitates estimating cutting force in an intra-operative manner. To evaluate the performance of the proposed family of friction models, experiments were conducted on homogeneous artificial phantoms and animal tissue. The results illustrate that our approach enables us to represent the main features of friction which is a major force component in needle-tissue interaction during needle-based interventions.

Needle phobia during pregnancy.

PubMed

Searing, Kimberly; Baukus, Mary; Stark, Mary Ann; Morin, Karen H; Rudell, Barb

2006-01-01

The objective of this study was to understand the experience of a pregnant woman with needle phobia and examine its impact on her antepartum, intrapartum, and postpartum experience. A case study format was employed. A 21-year-old primiparous woman with diagnosed needle phobia was interviewed, and her prenatal and delivery records were reviewed. Three tasks during pregnancy were identified: seeking trusting relationships with health care providers; establishing and maintaining control and understanding; and coping with fear of needles, pain, and invasion. As frequent caregivers during childbearing, nurses with an understanding of needle phobia can help to establish trusting relationships with women with this phobia and support them and their families during childbearing and their encounters with needles. (c) 2006, AWHONN, the Association of Women's Health, Obstetric and Neonatal Nurses

Integrated musculoskeletal service design by GP consortia

PubMed Central

2011-01-01

Background Musculoskeletal conditions are common in primary care and are associated with significant co-morbidity and impairment of quality of life. Traditional care pathways combined community-based physiotherapy with GP referral to hospital for a consultant opinion. Locally, this model led to only 30% of hospital consultant orthopaedic referrals being listed for surgery, with the majority being referred for physiotherapy. The NHS musculoskeletal framework proposed the use of interface services to provide expertise in diagnosis, triage and management of musculoskeletal problems not requiring surgery. The White Paper Equity and Excellence: Liberating the NHS has replaced PCT commissioning with GP consortia, who will lead future service development. Setting Primary and community care, integrated with secondary care, in the NHS in England. Question How can GP consortia lead the development of integrated musculoskeletal services? Review: The Ealing experience We explore here how Ealing implemented a ‘See and Treat’ interface clinic model to improve surgical conversion rates, reduce unnecessary hospital referrals and provide community treatment more efficiently than a triage model. A high-profile GP education programme enabled GPs to triage in their practices and manage patients without referral. Conclusion In Ealing, we demonstrated that most patients with musculoskeletal conditions can be managed in primary care and community settings. The integrated musculoskeletal service provides clear and fast routes to secondary care. This is both clinically effective and cost-effective, reserving hospital referral for patients most likely to need surgery. GP consortia, in conjunction with strong clinical leadership, inbuilt organisational and professional learning, and a GP champion, are well placed to deliver service redesign by co-ordinating primary care development, local commissioning of community services and the acute commissioning vehicles responsible for secondary

Characterization of the IPEC-J2 MDR1 (iP-gp) cell line as a tool for identification of P-gp substrates.

PubMed

Ozgür, Burak; Saaby, Lasse; Langthaler, Kristine; Brodin, Birger

2018-01-15

Recently, we transfected the porcine intestinal cell line IPEC-J2, with human P-glycoprotein (P-gp, ABCB1). The resulting cell line, iP-gp, has a high expression of functional human P-gp in the apical membrane, and a low expression of nonhuman ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters. The aim of the present work was to investigate the usability of iP-gp cell line for determining transepithelial transport kinetics of the prototypical P-gp substrates digoxin and rhodamine 123. The cell line generated tight monolayers after 16days of culture, reflected by high transepithelial electrical resistance values (TEER>15,000Ω·cm 2 ), immunocytochemistry and low fluxes of the paracellular flux marker [ 14 C]-mannitol. Monolayer integrity was not affected the common solvents dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), methanol and ethanol in concentrations up to 2% (v/v). Transepithelial fluxes of [ 3 H]-labeled digoxin and rhodamine 123 were measured at varying donor concentrations, and kinetic parameters were estimated. K m and V max of P-gp mediated basolateral-to-apical (B-A) flux of rhodamine 123 were estimated to 332±124μM and 111±16pmol·cm -2 ·min -1 (n=3, total N=6), respectively. V max and K m of digoxin B-A flux could not be estimated due to the low aqueous solubility of digoxin. The half maximal inhibitory concentrations (IC 50 ) of the selective P-gp inhibitor, zosuquidar (LY-335979), were estimated to 0.05±0.01μM (n=3, total N=6) and 0.04±0.01μM (n=3, total N=6) in transport experiments with digoxin and rhodamine 123 as substrates, respectively. Bidirectional fluxes of digoxin and rhodamine 123 were measured in transfected Madin Darby canine kidney cells (MDCK II MDR1) and compared with the fluxes obtained with the iP-gp cell monolayers. Efflux ratios were highest in the iP-gp cells, due to a tighter paracellular pathway. In conclusion, both digoxin and rhodamine 123 could be used to obtain IC 50 values of inhibition, K i values were only possible to obtain using

gp160 of HIV-I synthesized by persistently infected Molt-3 cells is terminally glycosylated: evidence that cleavage of gp160 occurs subsequent to oligosaccharide processing.

PubMed

Merkle, R K; Helland, D E; Welles, J L; Shilatifard, A; Haseltine, W A; Cummings, R D

1991-10-01

The envelope glycoprotein of HIV-I in infected, cultured human T cells is synthesized as a precursor of apparent Mr 160 kDa (gp160) and is cleaved to two glycoproteins, gp120 and gp41, which are the mature envelope glycoproteins in the virus. Neither the temporal and spatial features of glycosylation nor the oligosaccharide processing and proteolytic cleavage of the envelope glycoprotein are well understood. To understand more about these events, we investigated the glycosylation and cleavage of the envelope glycoproteins in the CD4+ human cell line, Molt-3, persistently infected with HIV-I (HTLV IIIB). The carbohydrate analysis of gp160 and gp120 and the behavior of the glycoproteins and glycopeptides derived from them on immobilized lectins demonstrate that both of these glycoproteins contain complex- and high-mannose-type Asn-linked oligosaccharides. In addition, the N-glycanase-resistant oligosaccharides of gp120 were found to contain N-acetyl-galactosamine, a common constituent of Ser/Thr-linked oligosaccharides. Pulse-chase analysis of the conversion of [35S]cysteine-labeled gp160 showed that in Molt-3 cells it takes about 2 h for gp120 to arise with a half-time of conversion of about 5 h. At its earliest detectable occurrence, gp120 was found to contain complex-type Asn-linked oligosaccharides. Taken together, these results indicate that proteolytic cleavage of gp160 to gp120 and gp41 occurs either within the trans-Golgi or in a distal compartment.

Presenting hydrothorax predicts failure of needle aspiration in primary spontaneous pneumothorax.

PubMed

Wu, Kwok Kei; Lui, Chun Tat; Ho, Chik Leung; Tsui, Kwok Leung; Fung, Hin Tat

2016-06-01

The objective was to evaluate if existence of hydrothorax in initial chest radiograph predicts treatment outcome in patients with primary spontaneous pneumothorax who received needle thoracostomy. This is a retrospective cohort study carried out from January 2011 to August 2014 in 1 public hospital in Hong Kong. All consecutive adult patients aged 18years or above who attended the emergency department with the diagnosis of primary spontaneous pneumothorax with needle aspiration performed as primary treatment were included. Age, smoking status, size of pneumothorax, previous history of pneumothorax, aspirated gas volume and presence of hydropneumothorax in initial radiograph were included in the analysis. The outcome was success or failure of the needle aspiration. Logistic regression was used to identify the predicting factors of failure of needle aspiration. There were a total of 127 patients included. Seventy-three patients (57.5%) were successfully treated with no recurrence upon discharge. Among 54 failure cases, 13 patients (10.2%) failed immediately after procedure as evident by chest radiograph and required second treatment. Forty-one patients (32.3%) failed upon subsequent chest radiographs. Multivariate logistic regression showed factors independently associated with the failure of needle aspiration, which included hydropneumothorax in the initial radiograph (odds ratio [OR]=4.47 [1.56i12.83], P=.005), previous history of pneumothorax (OR=3.92 [1.57-9.79], P=.003), and large size of pneumothorax defined as apex-to-cupola distance ≥5cm (OR=2.75 [1.21-6.26], P=.016). Hydropneumothorax, previous history of pneumothorax, and large size were independent predictors of failure of needle aspiration in treatment of primary spontaneous pneumothorax. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Models for the Binary Complex of Bacteriophage T4 Gp59 Helicase Loading Protein. GP32 Single-Stranded DNA-Binding Protein and Ternary Complex with Pseudo-Y Junction DNA

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

Hinerman, Jennifer M.; Dignam, J. David; Mueser, Timothy C.

2012-04-05

The bacteriophage T4 gp59 helicase assembly protein (gp59) is required for loading of gp41 replicative helicase onto DNA protected by gp32 single-stranded DNA-binding protein. The gp59 protein recognizes branched DNA structures found at replication and recombination sites. Binding of gp32 protein (full-length and deletion constructs) to gp59 protein measured by isothermal titration calorimetry demonstrates that the gp32 protein C-terminal A-domain is essential for protein-protein interaction in the absence of DNA. Sedimentation velocity experiments with gp59 protein and gp32ΔB protein (an N-terminal B-domain deletion) show that these proteins are monomers but form a 1:1 complex with a dissociation constant comparable withmore » that determined by isothermal titration calorimetry. Small angle x-ray scattering (SAXS) studies indicate that the gp59 protein is a prolate monomer, consistent with the crystal structure and hydrodynamic properties determined from sedimentation velocity experiments. SAXS experiments also demonstrate that gp32ΔB protein is a prolate monomer with an elongated A-domain protruding from the core. Moreover, fitting structures of gp59 protein and the gp32 core into the SAXS-derived molecular envelope supports a model for the gp59 protein-gp32ΔB protein complex. Our earlier work demonstrated that gp59 protein attracts full-length gp32 protein to pseudo-Y junctions. A model of the gp59 protein-DNA complex, modified to accommodate new SAXS data for the binary complex together with mutational analysis of gp59 protein, is presented in the accompanying article (Dolezal, D., Jones, C. E., Lai, X., Brister, J. R., Mueser, T. C., Nossal, N. G., and Hinton, D. M. (2012) J. Biol. Chem. 287, 18596–18607).« less

Structure of the bacteriophage T4 long tail fiber receptor-binding tip

PubMed Central

Bartual, Sergio G.; Otero, José M.; Garcia-Doval, Carmela; Llamas-Saiz, Antonio L.; Kahn, Richard; Fox, Gavin C.; van Raaij, Mark J.

2010-01-01

Bacteriophages are the most numerous organisms in the biosphere. In spite of their biological significance and the spectrum of potential applications, little high-resolution structural detail is available on their receptor-binding fibers. Here we present the crystal structure of the receptor-binding tip of the bacteriophage T4 long tail fiber, which is highly homologous to the tip of the bacteriophage lambda side tail fibers. This structure reveals an unusual elongated six-stranded antiparallel beta-strand needle domain containing seven iron ions coordinated by histidine residues arranged colinearly along the core of the biological unit. At the end of the tip, the three chains intertwine forming a broader head domain, which contains the putative receptor interaction site. The structure reveals a previously unknown beta-structured fibrous fold, provides insights into the remarkable stability of the fiber, and suggests a framework for mutations to expand or modulate receptor-binding specificity. PMID:21041684

Structure and Recognition of a Novel HIV-1 gp120-gp41 Interface Antibody that Caused MPER Exposure through Viral Escape

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

Wibmer, Constantinos Kurt; Gorman, Jason; Ozorowski, Gabriel

A comprehensive understanding of the regions on HIV-1 envelope trimers targeted by broadly neutralizing antibodies may contribute to rational design of an HIV-1 vaccine. We previously identified a participant in the CAPRISA cohort, CAP248, who developed trimer-specific antibodies capable of neutralizing 60% of heterologous viruses at three years post-infection. Here, we report the isolation by B cell culture of monoclonal antibody CAP248-2B, which targets a novel membrane proximal epitope including elements of gp120 and gp41. Despite low maximum inhibition plateaus, often below 50% inhibitory concentrations, the breadth of CAP248-2B significantly correlated with donor plasma. Site-directed mutagenesis, X-ray crystallography, and negative-stainmore » electron microscopy 3D reconstructions revealed how CAP248-2B recognizes a cleavage-dependent epitope that includes the gp120 C terminus. While this epitope is distinct, it overlapped in parts of gp41 with the epitopes of broadly neutralizing antibodies PGT151, VRC34, 35O22, 3BC315, and 10E8. CAP248-2B has a conformationally variable paratope with an unusually long 19 amino acid light chain third complementarity determining region. Two phenylalanines at the loop apex were predicted by docking and mutagenesis data to interact with the viral membrane. Neutralization by CAP248-2B is not dependent on any single glycan proximal to its epitope, and low neutralization plateaus could not be completely explained by N- or O-linked glycosylation pathway inhibitors, furin co-transfection, or pre-incubation with soluble CD4. Viral escape from CAP248-2B involved a cluster of rare mutations in the gp120-gp41 cleavage sites. Simultaneous introduction of these mutations into heterologous viruses abrogated neutralization by CAP248-2B, but enhanced neutralization sensitivity to 35O22, 4E10, and 10E8 by 10-100-fold. Altogether, this study expands the region of the HIV-1 gp120-gp41 quaternary interface that is a target for broadly

Structure and Recognition of a Novel HIV-1 gp120-gp41 Interface Antibody that Caused MPER Exposure through Viral Escape

PubMed Central

Elliott, Debra H.; Rouelle, Julie; Smira, Ashley; Ndabambi, Nonkululeko; Druz, Aliaksandr; Williamson, Carolyn

2017-01-01

A comprehensive understanding of the regions on HIV-1 envelope trimers targeted by broadly neutralizing antibodies may contribute to rational design of an HIV-1 vaccine. We previously identified a participant in the CAPRISA cohort, CAP248, who developed trimer-specific antibodies capable of neutralizing 60% of heterologous viruses at three years post-infection. Here, we report the isolation by B cell culture of monoclonal antibody CAP248-2B, which targets a novel membrane proximal epitope including elements of gp120 and gp41. Despite low maximum inhibition plateaus, often below 50% inhibitory concentrations, the breadth of CAP248-2B significantly correlated with donor plasma. Site-directed mutagenesis, X-ray crystallography, and negative-stain electron microscopy 3D reconstructions revealed how CAP248-2B recognizes a cleavage-dependent epitope that includes the gp120 C terminus. While this epitope is distinct, it overlapped in parts of gp41 with the epitopes of broadly neutralizing antibodies PGT151, VRC34, 35O22, 3BC315, and 10E8. CAP248-2B has a conformationally variable paratope with an unusually long 19 amino acid light chain third complementarity determining region. Two phenylalanines at the loop apex were predicted by docking and mutagenesis data to interact with the viral membrane. Neutralization by CAP248-2B is not dependent on any single glycan proximal to its epitope, and low neutralization plateaus could not be completely explained by N- or O-linked glycosylation pathway inhibitors, furin co-transfection, or pre-incubation with soluble CD4. Viral escape from CAP248-2B involved a cluster of rare mutations in the gp120-gp41 cleavage sites. Simultaneous introduction of these mutations into heterologous viruses abrogated neutralization by CAP248-2B, but enhanced neutralization sensitivity to 35O22, 4E10, and 10E8 by 10-100-fold. Altogether, this study expands the region of the HIV-1 gp120-gp41 quaternary interface that is a target for broadly neutralizing

Needle bar for warp knitting machines

DOEpatents

Hagel, Adolf; Thumling, Manfred

1979-01-01

Needle bar for warp knitting machines with a number of needles individually set into slits of the bar and having shafts cranked to such an extent that the head section of each needle is in alignment with the shaft section accommodated by the slit. Slackening of the needles will thus not influence the needle spacing.

Internalization and Axonal Transport of the HIV Glycoprotein gp120

PubMed Central

Berth, Sarah; Caicedo, Hector Hugo; Sarma, Tulika; Morfini, Gerardo

2015-01-01

The HIV glycoprotein gp120, a neurotoxic HIV glycoprotein that is overproduced and shed by HIV-infected macrophages, is associated with neurological complications of HIV such as distal sensory polyneuropathy, but interactions of gp120 in the peripheral nervous system remain to be characterized. Here, we demonstrate internalization of extracellular gp120 in a manner partially independent of binding to its coreceptor CXCR4 by F11 neuroblastoma cells and cultured dorsal root ganglion neurons. Immunocytochemical and pharmacological experiments indicate that gp120 does not undergo trafficking through the endolysosomal pathway. Instead, gp120 is mainly internalized through lipid rafts in a cholesterol-dependent manner, with a minor fraction being internalized by fluid phase pinocytosis. Experiments using compartmentalized microfluidic chambers further indicate that, after internalization, endocytosed gp120 selectively undergoes retrograde but not anterograde axonal transport from axons to neuronal cell bodies. Collectively, these studies illuminate mechanisms of gp120 internalization and axonal transport in peripheral nervous system neurons, providing a novel framework for mechanisms for gp120 neurotoxicity. PMID:25636314

Immunological activation following transcutaneous delivery of HR-gp100 protein

PubMed Central

Frankenburg, Shoshana; Grinberg, Igor; Bazak, Ziva; Fingerut, Lena; Pitcovski, Jacob; Gorodetsky, Raphael; Peretz, Tamar; Spira, Ram M.; Skornik, Yehuda; Goldstein, Ronald S.

2009-01-01

Transcutaneous immunization aims at taking advantage of the skin’s immune system for the purpose of immunoprotection. In the present study we evaluated the potential of topical delivery of a recombinant melanoma protein, HR-gp100, derived from a shorter sequence of the native gp100 gene. The protein was applied on the skin, with and without the addition of two forms of heat labile enterotoxin (nLT and LTB). HR-gp100 fused to Haptide, a cell penetrating 20mer peptide (HR-gp100H) was also tested. Topical HR-gp100 and HR-gp100H application on the ears of mice elicited the production of specific antibodies, and transcutaneous delivery to intact human skin induced dose-dependent LC activation. nLT and LTB also activated LC, but did not further increase the activation induced by HR-gp100. These results show that HR-gp100, an antigenic tumor-derived protein, activates the immune system following transcutaneous delivery, as shown by both Langerhans cell activation and induction of antibody production. PMID:17493711

Functional characterization of Autographa californica multiple nucleopolyhedrovirus gp16 (ac130)

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

Yang, Ming; Huang, Cui; Qian, Duo-Duo

2014-09-15

To investigate the function of Autographa californica multiple nucleopolyhedrovirus (AcMNPV) gp16, multiple gp16-knockout and repair mutants were constructed and characterized. No obvious difference in productivity of budded virus, DNA synthesis, late gene expression and morphogenesis was observed between gp16-knockout and repair viruses, but gp16 deletion resulted in six hours of lengthening in ST{sub 50} to the third instar Spodoptera exigua larvae in bioassays. GP16 was fractionated mainly in the light membrane fraction, by subcellular fractionation. A GP16-EGFP fusion protein was predominantly localized close around the nuclear membrane in infected cells, being coincident with formation of the vesicles associated with themore » nuclear membrane, which hosted nucleocapsids released from the nucleus. These data suggest that gp16 is not required for viral replication, but may be involved in membrane trafficking associated with the envelopment/de-envelopment of budded viruses when they cross over the nuclear membrane and pass through cytoplasm. - Highlights: • gp16 knockout and repair mutants of AcMNPV were constructed and characterized. • AcMNPV gp16 is not essential to virus replication. • Deletion of gp16 resulted in time lengthening to kill S. exigua larvae. • GP16 was localized close around the nuclear membrane of infected cells. • GP16 was fractionated in the light membrane fraction in subcellular fractionation.« less

Histological observation for needle-tissue interactions.

PubMed

Nakagawa, Yoshiyuki; Koseki, Yoshihiko

2013-01-01

We histologically investigated tissue fractures and deformations caused by ex vivo needle insertions. The tissue was formalin-fixed while the needle remained in the tissue. Following removal of the needle, the tissue was microtomed, stained, and observed microscopically. This method enabled observations of cellular and tissular conditions where deformations caused by needle insertions were approximately preserved. For this study, our novel method presents preliminary findings related with tissue fractures and the orientation of needle blade relative to muscle fibers. When the needle blade was perpendicular to the muscle fiber, transfiber fractures and relatively large longitudinal deformations occurred. When the needle blade was parallel to the muscle fiber, interfiber fractures and relatively small longitudinal deformations occurred. This made a significant difference in the resistance force of the needle insertions.

Comparison of 21-Gauge and 22-Gauge Aspiration Needle in Endobronchial Ultrasound-Guided Transbronchial Needle Aspiration

PubMed Central

Akulian, Jason; Lechtzin, Noah; Yasin, Faiza; Kamdar, Biren; Ernst, Armin; Ost, David E.; Ray, Cynthia; Greenhill, Sarah R.; Jimenez, Carlos A.; Filner, Joshua; Feller-Kopman, David

2013-01-01

Background: Endobronchial ultrasound-guided transbronchial needle aspiration (EBUS-TBNA) is a minimally invasive procedure originally performed using a 22-gauge (22G) needle. A recently introduced 21-gauge (21G) needle may improve the diagnostic yield and sample adequacy of EBUS-TBNA, but prior smaller studies have shown conflicting results. To our knowledge, this is the largest study undertaken to date to determine whether the 21G needle adds diagnostic benefit. Methods: We retrospectively evaluated the results of 1,299 patients from the American College of Chest Physicians Quality Improvement Registry, Education, and Evaluation (AQuIRE) Diagnostic Registry who underwent EBUS-TBNA between February 2009 and September 2010 at six centers throughout the United States. Data collection included patient demographics, sample adequacy, and diagnostic yield. Analysis consisted of univariate and multivariate hierarchical logistic regression comparing diagnostic yield and sample adequacy of EBUS-TBNA specimens by needle gauge. Results: A total of 1,235 patients met inclusion criteria. Sample adequacy was obtained in 94.9% of the 22G needle group and in 94.6% of the 21G needle group (P = .81). A diagnosis was made in 51.4% of the 22G and 51.3% of the 21G groups (P = .98). Multivariate hierarchical logistic regression showed no statistical difference in sample adequacy or diagnostic yield between the two groups. The presence of rapid onsite cytologic evaluation was associated with significantly fewer needle passes per procedure when using the 21G needle (P < .001). Conclusions: There is no difference in specimen adequacy or diagnostic yield between the 21G and 22G needle groups. EBUS-TBNA in conjunction with rapid onsite cytologic evaluation and a 21G needle is associated with fewer needle passes compared with a 22G needle. PMID:23632441

GP workforce participation in Tasmania.

PubMed

Gartlan, Jan; Male, Sarah; Donaldson, Lawrence; Nelson, Mark; Winzenberg, Tania

2007-05-01

Predicting future general practitioner workforce requires information about how demographic factors affect GP workforce participation. Regional differences might not be accounted for in national studies. The authors aimed to determine GP characteristics associated with workforce participation in Tasmania. A self administered census of Tasmanian GPs measured GP demographics and the number of 3.5 hour sessions worked in 1 week in 2005. Four hundred and three GPs responded (76% response rate). Six percent of GPs were on leave at the time of the census. Age, gender and graduation outside of Australia, the United Kingdom or Ireland were associated with workforce participation, but rurality had no effect. The effect of age was modified by gender with women aged over 55 years being more likely to work full time (p=0.03). Factors affecting workforce participation may vary across regions. Predictions based on national models may need to be interpreted in the context of local circumstances.

[Deep needling and shallow needling at three acupoints around ear for subjective tinnitus: a randomized controlled trial].

PubMed

Yin, Tao; Ni, Jinxia; Zhu, Wenzeng

2015-10-01

To compare the effective differences between deep needling and shallow needling at three acupoints around ear for subjective tinnitus. Fifty patients with subjective tinnitus were randomized divided into a deep needling group and a shallow needling group, 25 cases in each group. Twenty-two patients in the deep needling group and 20 patients in the shallow needling group were brought into statistic in the end. In the two groups, the three acupoints around ear and distal acupoints were both selected. The acupoints of the affected side such as Yifeng (TE 17), Tinghui (GB 2), Ermen (TE 21), Zhigou (TE 6), Zhongzhu (TE 3) and Hegu (LI 4) were adopted. Yifeng (TE 17), Tinghui (GB 2) and Ermen (TE 21) were acupunctured 30-38 mm in the deep needling group and 15-20 mm in the shallow needling group. The other acupoints were conventionally acupunctured in the two groups. The needles were retained for 30 min,once a day and five times a week for all patients. The treatment was continuously for 4 weeks in the two groups. Tinnitus handicap inventory (THI) scores, tinnitus grades and visual analogue scale (VAS) for tinnitus sound levels were observed before and after treatment, and the effects of the two groups were compared. The total effective rate in the deep needling group was 59.1% (13/22), and it was better than 20.0% (4/20) in the shallow needling group (P < 0.05). In the deep needling, group, the THI score, tinnitus grade and the VAS score were improved than those before treatment (all P < 0.05). In the shallow needling group, the three above indices before and after treatment were not different in statistical significance (all P > 0.05). After treatment, all the three indices in the deep needling group were superior to those in the shallow needling group (all P < 0.05). Acupuncture at the three acupoints around ear deeply could apparently improve tinnitus, and reduce tinnitus sound levels for subjective tinnitus. The effect is better than that by shallow needling at the

Using insulin pen needles up to five times does not affect needle tip shape nor increase pain intensity.

PubMed

Puder, Jardena J; Atar, Michael; Muller, Beat; Pavan, Marco; Keller, Ulrich

2005-02-01

Reusing insulin pen needles could help to reduce the increasing economic burden of diabetes. We tested the hypothesis that reusing insulin pen needles leads to needle tip deformity and increased pain. Three blinded reviewers assessed 123 electron microscope pictures analyzing needle tip deformity of insulin pen needles used up to four times by diabetic subjects and up to five times by blinded non-diabetic volunteers. The estimated frequency of needle use was correlated to the actual number of needle use. Pain intensity and unpleasantness of each injection were measured by a visual analogue scale and their differences analyzed by Kruskal-Wallis analysis of variance. Unused needles could be differentiated visually from used needles. However, there was no correlation between the actual and guessed number of times a needle was used (r = 0.07, P = 0.2). Evaluating all 270 injections, neither pain intensity nor unpleasantness increased with repeated injections of the same needles in people with diabetes (P = 0.1 and 0.96) and in the volunteers (P = 0.63 and 0.92). Using pen needles four to five times does not lead to progressive needle tip deformity and does not increase pain intensity or unpleasantness, but could increase convenience and lead to substantial financial savings in Europe of around EUR 100 million/year.

Endobronchial Ultrasound-guided Transbronchial Needle Aspiration Using 19-G Needle for Sarcoidosis.

PubMed

Balwan, Akshu

2018-05-16

Flexible bronchoscopy with endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS)-guided transbronchial needle aspiration (TBNA) is increasingly being used to obtain pathology specimens for diagnosis of sarcoidosis. There is wide variation in reported diagnostic yield in literature. New TBNA needles are available in the market but data are lacking about their diagnostic yield especially for sarcoidosis. This study reports the diagnostic yield of bronchoscopy with EBUS-TBNA using ViziShot FLEX 19-G needle in a series of patients with suspected sarcoidosis. This is a retrospective chart review for diagnostic yield of the 19-G EBUS-TBNA needle for suspected sarcoidosis. Eighty-six EBUS bronchoscopies were performed, 15 were done with clinical suspicion of sarcoidosis. The 19-G needle was used for all cases of suspected sarcoidosis. The procedure was diagnostic of sarcoidosis in 14 (93.3%) patients by TBNA with 1 nondiagnostic bronchoscopy. Procedural diagnostic yield was 93.3%. Eighty-five percent (28/33) of sampled lymph nodes were positive for noncaseating granulomas. The yield of transbronchial lung biopsy (TBLB) and endobronchial lung biopsy was 38% (5/13) and 43% (6/14), respectively. TBLB and endobronchial lung biopsy did not add to the diagnostic yield of the procedure. No significant adverse events were noted. This series reports a higher diagnostic yield than most other published studies and opens platform for direct comparison of each available needle. It also adds to the safety data for this larger needle. In addition, it raises doubt into utility of TBLB for diagnosis of sarcoidosis, which can increase the procedural complications.

[Treatment of trigger finger with located needle knife].

PubMed

Zhang, Qi-Feng; Yang, Jiang; Xi, Sheng-Hua

2016-07-25

To investigate the clinical effects of located needle knife in the treatment of trigger finger. The clinical data of 133 patients(145 fingers) with trigger finger underwent treatment with located needle knife from September 2010 to March 2014 were retrospectively analyzed. There were 37 males(40 fingers) and 96 females (105 fingers), aged from 18 to 71 years old with a mean of 51.8 years. Course of disease was from 1 to 19 months with an average of 8.2 months. Affected fingers included 82 thumbs, 12 index fingers, 11 middle fingers, 36 ring fingers, and 4 little fingers. According to the standard of Quinnell grade, 42 fingers were grade III, 92 fingers were grade IV, and 11 fingers were grade V. Firstly the double pipe gab was put into the distal edge of hypertrophic tendon sheath, then small knife needle was used to release the sheath proximally along the tendon line direction. The informations of wound healing and nerve injury, postoperative finger function, finger pain at 6 months were observed. The operation time was from 8 to 25 min with an average of 9.8 min. All the patients were followed up from 6 to 26 months with an average of 12.5 months. No complications such as the wound inflammation and seepage, vascular or nerve injuries were found. According to the standard of Quinnell grade, 123 fingers got excellent results, 15 good, 7 poor. It's a good choice to treat trigger finger with located needle knife in advantage of minimal invasion, simple safe operation, and it should be promoted in clinic.

The multiple roles of sGP in Ebola pathogenesis.

PubMed

de La Vega, Marc-Antoine; Wong, Gary; Kobinger, Gary P; Qiu, Xiangguo

2015-02-01

Ebola causes severe hemorrhagic fever in humans and nonhuman primates, and there are currently no approved therapeutic countermeasures. The virulence of Ebola virus (EBOV) may be partially attributed to the secreted glycoprotein (sGP), which is the main product transcribed from its GP gene. sGP is secreted from infected cells and can be readily detected in the serum of EBOV-infected hosts. This review summarizes the multiple roles that sGP may play during infection and highlights the implications for the future design of vaccines and treatments.

The Multiple Roles of sGP in Ebola Pathogenesis

PubMed Central

de La Vega, Marc-Antoine; Wong, Gary; Kobinger, Gary P.

2015-01-01

Abstract Ebola causes severe hemorrhagic fever in humans and nonhuman primates, and there are currently no approved therapeutic countermeasures. The virulence of Ebola virus (EBOV) may be partially attributed to the secreted glycoprotein (sGP), which is the main product transcribed from its GP gene. sGP is secreted from infected cells and can be readily detected in the serum of EBOV-infected hosts. This review summarizes the multiple roles that sGP may play during infection and highlights the implications for the future design of vaccines and treatments. PMID:25354393

[Comparison of chemical components of essential oils in needles of Pinus massoniana Lamb and Pinus elliottottii Engelm from Guangxi].

PubMed

Shen, Changmao; Duan, Wengui; Cen, Bo; Tan, Jianhui

2006-11-01

Essential oils were extracted by steam distillation from the needles of Pinus massoniana Lamb and Pinus elliottottii Engelm grown in Guangxi. Various factors such as pine needle dosage and extraction time which may influence the oil yield were investigated. The optimum conditions were found to be as follows: pine needle dosage 700 g, extraction time 5 h. The essential oil yields from the needles of Pinus massoniana Lamb and Pinus elliottottii Engelm were 0.45% and 0.19%, respectively. Moreover, the chemical compositions of the essential oils were analyzed by gas chromatography (GC) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Sixty four components in the essential oil from needle of Pinus massoniana Lamb were separated and twenty of them (98.59%) were identified while seventy three components in the essential oil from needle of Pinus elliottottii Engelm were separated and twenty nine of them (94.23%) were identified. Generally, the compositions of the essential oils from needles of the two varieties were similar but the contents of some compounds differed greatly. Especially, the content of alpha-pinene in the essential oils from Pinus massoniana Lamb needles was 2.6 times as that from Pinus elliottottii Engelm needles, but the content of beta-pinene was less than the latter. Mono- and sesquiterpenes were the main composition of the essential oils from Pinus massoniana Lamb and Pinus elliottottii Engelm needles.

Optical and electrical characteristics of hollow-needle to plate atmospheric-pressure discharge in nitrogen

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Simek, Milan; Schmidt, Jiri; Pekarek, Stanislav; Khun, Josef

2006-10-01

We have studied basic optical and electrical characteristics of the DC hollow needle to plate electrical discharge enhanced by the gas flow through the needle. Substantial advantage of this arrangement is that all gas supplied to the discharge passes through the discharge zone and therefore it is affected by plasma chemical processes. Depending on the energy dissipated between electrodes, we previously observed two basic discharge regimes: a) DC corona and b) DC corona superimposed with pulsed filamentary streamers [1]. In this work, we have analyzed radiation induced by filamentary streamers. In addition to nitrogen emissions driven by electron impact processes we have detected emission induced by specific energy transfer processes [2]. We have also determined mean repetition frequency of filamentary streamers (0.1-15 kHz) for the needle-to-plane gap and for the nitrogen flow through the needle ranging between 2-6 mm and 1-10 slm, respectively. [1] M. Simek and S.Pekarek, GEC 2005, Bul. Am. Phys. Soc. 50, 29, (2005) ; [2] M. Simek at al, Pure Appl. Chem. 78, 1213, (2006).

Fine-needle aspiration findings of a rare hematopoietic neoplasm presenting as obstructive jaundice.

PubMed

Tracht, Jessica; Ahmed, Ali M; Rosenblum Donath, Frida

2017-12-01

A 51-year-old female who presented with obstructive jaundice was found to have masses in the pancreatic head and tail as well as suspicious liver and periaortic masses on imaging. Aspiration cytology of the pancreatic tail mass showed abundant large single cells with vacuolated eosinophilic cytoplasm, marked nuclear pleomorphism, large bizarre irregular nuclei, binucleation, and prominent nucleoli. Numerous cells also showed intracytoplasmic black to brown pigmentation. A cell block was obtained and extensive immunohistochemical staining was performed. S-100, HMB-45, Sox10, pancytokeratin, CK7, RCC antigen, synaptophysin, HepPar 1, inhibin, CD45, CD21, and CD123 were negative, making melanoma, epithelial malignancies, lymphoma, follicular dendritic and plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasms less likely. CD4 and CD56 showed partial positivity, and CD68, CD163, and CD14 were positive, supporting the diagnosis of histiocytic sarcoma. Surgical specimens and immunohistochemistry confirmed the cytologic findings. Histiocytic sarcoma is a rare aggressive malignancy of histiocytic origin with most cases presenting in adults in extranodal sites, most commonly the intestinal tract. Few cases are reported in the literature, presenting diagnostic challenges for cytopathologists when seen on fine-needle aspiration. We present the first reported case of histiocytic sarcoma presenting as a pancreatic mass, diagnosed by endoscopic ultrasound guided fine-needle aspiration (EUS-FNA). This entity is rarely described on cytology and arose in a location in which EUS-FNA is the diagnostic modality of choice. This case study highlights that cytopathologists should be aware of histiocytic sarcoma occurring in extranodal locations accessible by EUS-FNA and be familiar with the cytomorphologic appearance. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Needle tract implantation of hepatoblastoma after percutaneous needle biopsy: report of a case.

PubMed

Sumiyoshi, Tatsuaki; Shima, Yasuo; Nishiuchi, Ritsuo; Sasaki, Kiyoshi; Kouzuki, Akihito; Noda, Yoshihiro; Hata, Yasuhiro; Uka, Kiminobu

2014-06-01

A 13-year-old boy was referred to us for investigation of a giant liver mass, approximately 16 cm in diameter. Sonographically guided percutaneous needle biopsy was performed and histological examination revealed a fetal-type hepatoblastoma. After four courses of chemotherapy, we performed a left hepatic trisegmentectomy. Follow-up computed tomography, 55 months after the surgery, showed a 1-cm tumor on the route of the preoperative needle biopsy. A second laparotomy revealed a peritonealised tumor, which was excised. The histology of this tumor was identical to that of the primary hepatoblastoma. To our knowledge, this is only the second report of needle tract implantation of hepatoblastoma after percutaneous needle biopsy.

Endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration needles: which one and in what situation?

PubMed

Karadsheh, Zeid; Al-Haddad, Mohammad

2014-01-01

Endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration (EUS-FNA) is increasingly used as a diagnostic and therapeutic tool for pancreatic and other gastrointestinal disorders. Several factors affect the outcome of EUS-FNA, one of which is needle size. The decision to use a specific needle depends on factors including location, consistency, and type of the lesion; presence of onsite cytopathologist; and need for additional tissue procurement for histology. This review provides a balanced perspective on the use of different needle sizes available, highlighting the differences among them and potential niche applications of each to maximize diagnostic yield of EUS-FNA. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

CT-guided transthoracic needle biopsy: a comparison between automated biopsy gun and fine needle aspiration.

PubMed

Arakawa, H; Nakajima, Y; Kurihara, Y; Niimi, H; Ishikawa, T

1996-07-01

We retrospectively investigated the diagnostic accuracy and complication rate of transthoracic core biopsy using an automated biopsy gun and compared the findings with those of aspiration needle biopsy. Seventy-three patients underwent 74 core biopsy procedures and 50 patients underwent 52 aspiration biopsy procedures. Of these, a final diagnosis was obtained in 107 lesions with surgery or clinical course. Fifteen patients in which a final diagnosis was not obtained were excluded from the study on diagnostic accuracy. Thus, in the study of diagnostic accuracy, 63 core biopsy procedures for 62 lesions are included. Core biopsy was performed with an 18 G cutting needle using an automated biopsy gun. Aspiration biopsy was performed with a 20 G aspiration needle. Core biopsy yielded sufficient material in 57/63 procedures (90.5%). A correct diagnosis was obtained in 36 procedures (85.7%) for malignant leisons and a specific benign diagnosis was obtained in 11 procedures (52.4%). Aspiration biopsy yielded a correct diagnosis in 26 procedures (81.3%) for malignant leisons and in seven (46.7%) for benign lesions. The overall correct diagnosis were 75.8% and 71.7% with core biopsy and aspiration biopsy, respectively. Core biopsy gave a higher predictive rate than that of aspiration biopsy for both benign and malignant lessons (P < 0.02). Pneumothorax occurred in 18/74 (24.3%) patients with core biopsy and in 18/45 (40.0%) patients with aspiration biopsy. Of these, three with core biopsy and two with aspiration biopsy needed tube drainage. The other complication was haemoptysis, which occurred in six patients following core biopsy and in three after aspiration biopsy. All nine cases subsided spontaneously. There were no fatal complications. Core biopsy with a biopsy gun increase the diagnostic accuracy with a higher histologic predictive rate and no obvious additional risk of complications.

The ATPase domain of the large terminase protein, gp17, from bacteriophage T4 binds DNA: implications to the DNA packaging mechanism.

PubMed

Alam, Tanfis I; Rao, Venigalla B

2008-03-07

Translocation of double-stranded DNA into a preformed capsid by tailed bacteriophages is driven by powerful motors assembled at the special portal vertex. The motor is thought to drive processive cycles of DNA binding, movement, and release to package the viral genome. In phage T4, there is evidence that the large terminase protein, gene product 17 (gp17), assembles into a multisubunit motor and translocates DNA by an inchworm mechanism. gp17 consists of two domains; an N-terminal ATPase domain (amino acids 1-360) that powers translocation of DNA, and a C-terminal nuclease domain (amino acids 361-610) that cuts concatemeric DNA to generate a headful-size viral genome. While the functional motifs of ATPase and nuclease have been well defined and the ATPase atomic structure has been solved, the DNA binding motif(s) responsible for viral DNA recognition, cutting, and translocation are unknown. Here we report the first evidence for the presence of a double-stranded DNA binding activity in the gp17 ATPase domain. Binding to DNA is sensitive to Mg(2+) and salt, but not the type of DNA used. DNA fragments as short as 20 bp can bind to the ATPase but preferential binding was observed to DNA greater than 1 kb. A high molecular weight ATPase-DNA complex was isolated by gel filtration, suggesting oligomerization of ATPase following DNA interaction. DNA binding was not observed with the full-length gp17, or the C-terminal nuclease domain. The small terminase protein, gp16, inhibited DNA binding, which was further accentuated by ATP. The presence of a DNA binding site in the ATPase domain and its binding properties implicate a role in the DNA packaging mechanism.

HIV-1 gp120 Induces Expression of IL-6 through a Nuclear Factor-Kappa B-Dependent Mechanism: Suppression by gp120 Specific Small Interfering RNA

PubMed Central

Shah, Ankit; Verma, Ashish S.; Patel, Kalpeshkumar H.; Noel, Richard; Rivera-Amill, Vanessa; Silverstein, Peter S.; Chaudhary, Suman; Bhat, Hari K.; Stamatatos, Leonidas; Singh, Dhirendra P.; Buch, Shilpa; Kumar, Anil

2011-01-01

In addition to its role in virus entry, HIV-1 gp120 has also been implicated in HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders. However, the mechanism(s) responsible for gp120-mediated neuroinflammation remain undefined. In view of increased levels of IL-6 in HIV-positive individuals with neurological manifestations, we sought to address whether gp120 is involved in IL-6 over-expression in astrocytes. Transfection of a human astrocyte cell line with a plasmid encoding gp120 resulted in increased expression of IL-6 at the levels of mRNA and protein by 51.3±2.1 and 11.6±2.2 fold respectively; this effect of gp120 on IL-6 expression was also demonstrated using primary human fetal astrocytes. A similar effect on IL-6 expression was observed when primary astrocytes were treated with gp120 protein derived from different strains of X4 and R5 tropic HIV-1. The induction of IL-6 could be abrogated by use of gp120-specific siRNA. Furthermore, this study showed that the NF-κB pathway is involved in gp120-mediated IL-6 over-expression, as IKK-2 and IKKβ inhibitors inhibited IL-6 expression by 56.5% and 60.8%, respectively. These results were also confirmed through the use of NF-κB specific siRNA. We also showed that gp120 could increase the phosphorylation of IκBα. Furthermore, gp120 transfection in the SVGA cells increased translocation of NF-κB from cytoplasm to nucleus. These results demonstrate that HIV-1 gp120-mediated over-expression of IL-6 in astrocytes is one mechanism responsible for neuroinflammation in HIV-infected individuals and this is mediated by the NF-κB pathway. PMID:21712995

Detecting stages of needle penetration into tissues through force estimation at needle tip using fiber Bragg grating sensors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kumar, Saurabh; Shrikanth, Venkoba; Amrutur, Bharadwaj; Asokan, Sundarrajan; Bobji, Musuvathi S.

2016-12-01

Several medical procedures involve the use of needles. The advent of robotic and robot assisted procedures requires dynamic estimation of the needle tip location during insertion for use in both assistive systems as well as for automatic control. Most prior studies have focused on the maneuvering of solid flexible needles using external force measurements at the base of the needle holder. However, hollow needles are used in several procedures and measurements of forces in proximity of such needles can eliminate the need for estimating frictional forces that have high variations. These measurements are also significant for endoscopic procedures in which measurement of forces at the needle holder base is difficult. Fiber Bragg grating sensors, due to their small size, inert nature, and multiplexing capability, provide a good option for this purpose. Force measurements have been undertaken during needle insertion into tissue mimicking phantoms made of polydimethylsiloxane as well as chicken tissue using an 18-G needle instrumented with FBG sensors. The results obtained show that it is possible to estimate the different stages of needle penetration including partial rupture, which is significant for procedures in which precise estimation of needle tip position inside the organ or tissue is required.

Designing a Soluble Near Full-Length HIV-1 GP41 Trimer

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-11-26

envelope; gp41 trimer; bacteriophage T4 display; prehairpin fusion intermediate. Background: The envelope glycoprotein gp41 is a key component of...protein into trimers and defined oligomers. These gp41 trimers were displayed on bacteriophage T4 capsid nanoparticles by attaching to the small...Construction of the Expression Vectors —All the gp41 constructs were generated by splicing-by- overlap extension PCR using wild-type HXB2 gp41 DNA

Structural delineation of a quaternary, cleavage-dependent epitope at the gp41-gp120 interface on intact HIV-1 Env trimers.

PubMed

Blattner, Claudia; Lee, Jeong Hyun; Sliepen, Kwinten; Derking, Ronald; Falkowska, Emilia; de la Peña, Alba Torrents; Cupo, Albert; Julien, Jean-Philippe; van Gils, Marit; Lee, Peter S; Peng, Wenjie; Paulson, James C; Poignard, Pascal; Burton, Dennis R; Moore, John P; Sanders, Rogier W; Wilson, Ian A; Ward, Andrew B

2014-05-15

All previously characterized broadly neutralizing antibodies to the HIV-1 envelope glycoprotein (Env) target one of four major sites of vulnerability. Here, we define and structurally characterize a unique epitope on Env that is recognized by a recently discovered family of human monoclonal antibodies (PGT151-PGT158). The PGT151 epitope is comprised of residues and glycans at the interface of gp41 and gp120 within a single protomer and glycans from both subunits of a second protomer and represents a neutralizing epitope that is dependent on both gp120 and gp41. Because PGT151 binds only to properly formed, cleaved trimers, this distinctive property, and its ability to stabilize Env trimers, has enabled the successful purification of mature, cleaved Env trimers from the cell surface as a complex with PGT151. Here we compare the structural and functional properties of membrane-extracted Env trimers from several clades with those of the soluble, cleaved SOSIP gp140 trimer. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Analysis of the tail structures of comet P/Halley 1910 II

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Voelzke, Marcos Rincon; Izaguirre, Liberdade

2012-07-01

Eight hundred and eighty six images from September 1909 to May 1911 are analysed for the purpose of identifying, measuring and correlating the morphological structures along the plasma tail of P/Halley. These images are from the Atlas of Comet Halley 1910 II (Donn et al., 1986). A systematic visual analysis revealed 304 wavy structures along the main tail and 164 along the secondary tails, 41 solitary waves (solitons), 13 Swan-like tails, 26 disconnection events (DEs), 166 knots (regions of higher density of matter) and six shells. While the wavy structures denote undulations or a train of waves, the solitons refer to the formations usually denominated kinks. In general, it is possible to associate the occurrence of a DE and/or a Swan-Tail with the occurrence of a knot, but the last one may occur independently. It is also possible to say that the solitons occur in association with the wavy structures, but the reverse is not true. The 26 DEs documented in 26 different images allowed the derivation of two onsets of DEs (Table 1), i.e., the time when the comet supposedly crossed a frontier between magnetic sectors of the solar wind (Brandt and Snow, 2000). Both onsets of DEs were determined after the perihelion passage with an average of the corrected velocities Vc equal to (57 ± 15) km/s. The mean value of the corrected wavelength c measured in 70 different wavy structures is equal to (1.7 ± 0.1) x 10^6 km and the mean amplitude A of the wave (measured in the same 70 wavy structures cited above) is equal to (1.4 ± 0.1) x 10^5 km. The mean value of the corrected cometocentric phase velocity Vpc measured in 20 different wavy structures is equal to (168 ± 28) km/s. The average value of the corrected velocities Vkc of the knots measured in 36 different images is equal to (128 ± 12) km/s. There is a tendancy for A and c to increase with increasing cometocentric distance. The results of this work agree with the earlier research from Voelzke and Matsuura (1998), which

Effectiveness of dry needling of rectus abdominis trigger points for the treatment of primary dysmenorrhoea: a randomised parallel-group trial.

PubMed

Gaubeca-Gilarranz, Alberto; Fernández-de-Las-Peñas, César; Medina-Torres, José Raúl; Seoane-Ruiz, José M; Company-Palonés, Aurelio; Cleland, Joshua A; Arias-Buría, Jose L

2018-05-02

To compare the effectiveness of trigger point dry needling (TrP-DN) versus placebo needling, relative to an untreated control group, on pain and quality of life in primary dysmenorrhoea. In this randomised, single blind, parallel-group trial, 56 females with primary dysmenorrhoea were randomly allocated to TrP-DN (n=19), placebo needling (n=18) or no treatment (n=19). Patients in both groups were asked to undertake a stretching exercise of the rectus abdominis daily. The needling group received a single session of TrP-DN to trigger points (TrPs) in the rectus abdominis, and the placebo group received placebo needling. The primary outcome was pain intensity (visual analogue scale). Secondary outcomes were quality of life, use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, the number of days with pain, and self-perceived improvement, measured using a Global Rate of Change. Outcomes were assessed at baseline, and 1 and 2 months after the treatment. Females receiving TrP-DN exhibited greater decreases (P<0.001) in pain than those receiving placebo (1 month: Δ-19.8 mm, 25.9 to -13.7; 2 months: Δ-26.0 mm, -33.1 to -18.9) or assigned to the untreated control group (1 month: Δ-26.0mm, -32.5 to -19.5; 2 months: Δ-20.1 mm, -26.4 to -13.8). Females in the TrP-DN group also exhibited a greater decrease in the amount of medications (P<0.001). No differences in the number of days with pain or quality of life were found (all P>0.1). This trial suggests that a single session of TrP-DN of the rectus abdominis combined with stretching was more effective than placebo needling and stretching alone at reducing pain and the amount of medication used in primary dysmenorrhoea. ACTRN12616000170426. © Article author(s) (or their employer(s) unless otherwise stated in the text of the article) 2018. All rights reserved. No commercial use is permitted unless otherwise expressly granted.

21 CFR 880.5580 - Acupuncture needle.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 8 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Acupuncture needle. 880.5580 Section 880.5580 Food... § 880.5580 Acupuncture needle. (a) Identification. An acupuncture needle is a device intended to pierce the skin in the practice of acupuncture. The device consists of a solid, stainless steel needle. The...

[Effect of twirling-reinforcing-reducing needling manipulations on contents of serum acetylcholine and arterial NOS and cGMP in stress-induced hypertension rats].

PubMed

Liu, Wei; Zhu, Ling-Qun; Chen, Si-Si; Lu, Shu-Chao; Tang, Jie; Liu, Qing-Guo

2015-04-01

To observe the effect of twirling-reinforcing or reducing needling manipulations on plasma acetylcholine (Ach) content and expression of nitric oxide synthetase (NOS) and cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) in thoracic artery tissue in stress-induced hypertension rats. A total of 60 male rats were randomly divided into blank control, model, acupuncture (no-needle-manipulation) , twirling-reinforcing needling and twirling-reducing needling groups (n = 12 in each group). The stress hypertension model was established by giving the animals with noise and electric shock stimulation (paw), twice a day for 15 days. Acupuncture stimulation was applied to bilateral "Taichong" (LR 3) for 1 min, followed by retaining the needles for 20 min. The treatment was conducted once daily for 7 days. Systolic blood pressure of the rat's tail was detected with non-invasive method and plasma Ach, and NOS and cGMP contents in the thoracic artery tissue were measured using ELISA method. Compared with the control group, the systolic blood pressure was significantly higher in the model group after 15 days' stress stimulation (P < 0.01), while the contents of plasma Ach, arterial NOS and cGMP were markedly down-regulated (P < 0.01). Following 7 days' acupuncture interventions, the increased blood pressure was down-regulated in the no-needle-manipulation, twirling-reinforcing needling and twirling-reducing needling groups (P < 0.05, P < 0.01); and the decreased Ach and NOS in the 3 treatment groups, and cGMP levels in the twirling-reinforcing and twirling-reducing needling groups were remarkably up-regulated (P < 0.01, P < 0.05). No significant change of arterial cGMP content was found in the no-needle-manipulation group (P > 0.05). The effect of the twirling-reducing needling was superior to that of no-needle-manipulation and twirling-reinforcing needling in lowering blood pressure and raising plasma Ach content (P < 0.05, P < 0.01). The twirling-reducing needling of acupuncture has a

Needle tip visibility in 3D ultrasound images

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Arif, Muhammad; Moelker, Adriaan; van Walsum, Theo

2017-03-01

Needle visibility is of crucial importance for ultrasound guided interventional procedures. However, several factors, such as shadowing by bone or gas and tissue echogenic properties similar to needles, may compromise needle visibility. Additionally, small angle between the ultrasound beam and the needle, as well as small gauged needles may reduce visibility. Variety in needle tips design may also affect needle visibility. Whereas several studies have investigated needle visibility in 2D ultrasound imaging, no data is available for 3D ultrasound imaging, a modality that has great potential for image guidance interventions1. In this study, we evaluated needle visibility using a 3D ultrasound transducer. We examined different needles in a tissue mimicking liver phantom at three angles (200, 550 and 900) and quantify their visibility. The liver phantom was made by 5% polyvinyl alcohol solution containing 1% Silica gel particles to act as ultrasound scattering particles. We used four needles; two biopsy needles (Quick core 14G and 18G), one Ablation needle (Radiofrequency Ablation 17G), and Initial puncture needle (IP needle 17G). The needle visibility was quantified by calculating contrast to noise ratio. The results showed that the visibility for all needles were almost similar at large angles. However the difference in visibility at lower angles is more prominent. Furthermore, the visibility increases with the increase in angle of ultrasound beam with needles.

Arterial puncture using insulin needle is less painful than with standard needle: a randomized crossover study.

PubMed

Ibrahim, Irwani; Yau, Ying Wei; Ong, Lizhen; Chan, Yiong Huak; Kuan, Win Sen

2015-03-01

Arterial punctures are important procedures performed by emergency physicians in the assessment of ill patients. However, arterial punctures are painful and can create anxiety and needle phobia in patients. The pain score of radial arterial punctures were compared between the insulin needle and the standard 23-gauge hypodermic needle. In a randomized controlled crossover design, healthy volunteers were recruited to undergo bilateral radial arterial punctures. They were assigned to receive either the insulin or the standard needle as the first puncture, using blocked randomization. The primary outcome was the pain score measured on a 100-mm visual analogue scale (VAS) for pain, and secondary outcomes were rate of hemolysis, mean potassium values, and procedural complications immediately and 24 hours postprocedure. Fifty healthy volunteers were included in the study. The mean (±standard deviation) VAS score in punctures with the insulin needle was lower than the standard needle (23 ± 22 mm vs. 39 ± 24 mm; mean difference = -15 mm; 95% confidence interval = -22 mm to -7 mm; p < 0.001). The rates of hemolysis and mean potassium value were greater in samples obtained using the insulin needle compared to the standard needle (31.3% vs. 11.6%, p = 0.035; and 4.6 ±0.7 mmol/L vs. 4.2 ±0.5 mmol/L, p = 0.002). Procedural complications were lower in punctures with the insulin needle both immediately postprocedure (0% vs. 24%; p < 0.001) and at 24 hours postprocedure (5.4% vs. 34.2%; p = 0.007). Arterial punctures using insulin needles cause less pain and fewer procedural complications compared to standard needles. However, due to the higher rate of hemolysis, its use should be limited to conditions that do not require a concurrent potassium value in the same blood sample. © 2015 by the Society for Academic Emergency Medicine.

AGES OF STAR CLUSTERS IN THE TIDAL TAILS OF MERGING GALAXIES

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

Mulia, A. J.; Chandar, R.; Whitmore, B. C.

We study the stellar content in the tidal tails of three nearby merging galaxies, NGC 520, NGC 2623, and NGC 3256, using BVI imaging taken with the Advanced Camera for Surveys on board the Hubble Space Telescope. The tidal tails in all three systems contain compact and fairly massive young star clusters, embedded in a sea of diffuse, unresolved stellar light. We compare the measured colors and luminosities with predictions from population synthesis models to estimate cluster ages and find that clusters began forming in tidal tails during or shortly after the formation of the tails themselves. We find amore » lack of very young clusters (≤10 Myr old), implying that eventually star formation shuts off in the tails as the gas is used up or dispersed. There are a few clusters in each tail with estimated ages that are older than the modeled tails themselves, suggesting that these may have been stripped out from the original galaxy disks. The luminosity function of the tail clusters can be described by a single power-law, dN/dL ∝ L{sup α}, with −2.6 < α < −2.0. We find a stellar age gradient across some of the tidal tails, which we interpret as a superposition of (1) newly formed stars and clusters along the dense center of the tail and (2) a sea of broadly distributed, older stellar material ejected from the progenitor galaxies.« less

Chemical composition of essential oils from needles and twigs of balkan pine (Pinus peuce grisebach) grown in Northern Greece.

PubMed

Koukos, P K; Papadopoulou, K I; Patiaka, D T; Papagiannopoulos, A D

2000-04-01

The composition of essential oils from twigs and needles of Balkan pine (Pinus peuce Gris.) grown in northern Greece was investigated. The compounds were identified by using GC-MS analysis. The twig oil was rich in alpha-pinene (7.38%), beta-pinene (12.46%), beta-phellandrene (26.93%), beta-caryophyllene (4.48%), and citronellol (12.48%), and the needle oil was rich in alpha-pinene (23.07%), camphene (5.52%), beta-pinene (22.00%), beta-phellandrene (6.78%), bornyl acetate (9.76%), beta-caryophyllene (3.05%), and citronellol (13.42%). The mean oil yield was 2.85% for twigs and 0. 57% for needles.

Ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration versus core needle biopsy: comparison of post-biopsy hematoma rates and risk factors.

PubMed

Chae, In Hye; Kim, Eun-Kyung; Moon, Hee Jung; Yoon, Jung Hyun; Park, Vivian Y; Kwak, Jin Young

2017-07-01

To compare post-biopsy hematoma rates between ultrasound guided-fine needle aspiration and ultrasound guided-core needle biopsy, and to investigate risk factors for post-biopsy hematoma. A total of 5304 thyroid nodules which underwent ultrasound guided biopsy were included in this retrospective study. We compared clinical and US features between patients with and without post-biopsy hematoma. Associations between these features and post-biopsy hematoma were analyzed. Post-biopsy hematoma rate was 0.8% (43/5121) for ultrasound guided-fine needle aspiration and 4.9% (9/183) for ultrasound guided-core needle biopsy (P < 0.001). For ultrasound guided-fine needle aspiration, gender, age, size, presence of vascularity, and suspicious US features were not associated with post-biopsy hematoma according to experience level. Post-biopsy hematoma occurred significantly more with ultrasound guided-core needle biopsy (9/179, 5.0%) than with ultrasound guided-fine needle aspiration (9/1138, 0.8%) (P < 0.001) in experienced performers and ultrasound guided-core needle biopsy was the only significant risk factor for post-biopsy hematoma (adjusted Odds Ratio, 6.458, P < 0.001). Post-biopsy hematoma occurred significantly more in ultrasound guided-core needle biopsy than in ultrasound guided-fine needle aspiration and ultrasound guided-core needle biopsy was the only independent factor of post-biopsy hematoma in thyroid nodules.

Veres needle in the pleural space.

PubMed

Jenkins, D W; McKinney, M K; Szpak, M W; Booker, J L

1983-11-01

The Veres needle is designed to allow entry into body cavities without trauma to underlying organs. Its major use has been in the induction of a pneumoperitoneum for peritoneoscopy. An initial successful evaluation of its use was in the pleural space of dogs. A subsequent analysis of complications in 69 thoracenteses using the Veres needle and 152 thoracenteses using a conventional needle favored the Veres needle (P = .05). We believe that the Veres needle is a safe and technically superior instrument for thoracentesis and that it deserves further application and study.

[Effects of slow twisting needle insertion and tubing needle insertion at Neiguan (PC 6) on cardiovascular function: a comparative study].

PubMed

Ning, Shaoli; Zhao, Lihua; Xu, Lingjun; Huang, Yu; Pang, Yong; Huang, Dingjian

2016-01-01

To compare the effects between slow twisting needle insertion and tubing needle insertion. With cross-over design, 100 healthy young subjects (half male and half female) aged from 19 to 23 years were randomly divided into two groups by random digital table, 50 cases in each one. At the first stage, subjects in the group A were treated with slow twisting needle insertion while, subjects in,the group B were treated with tubing needle insertion. One week later, the procedure of second stage was performed alternately. The needle was inserted into Neiguan (PC 6) with two methods by one acupuncturist. The needle was retained for 5 min before removal. Five min before needle insertion as well as needle withdrawal and 30 min after needle withdrawal, ZXG-E automatic cardiovascular diagnostic apparatus was used to test cardiovascular function. At the tim of needle withdrawal, slow twisting needle insertion could improve effect work of kinetics (EWK), effective blood volume (BV) and reduce elastic expansion coefficient of blood vessel (FEK) and left ventricular spray blood impedance (VER), which was significantly different from tubing needle insertion (all P < 0.05). Thirty min after needle withdrawal, the differences of the indices of cardiovascular function between the two groups were not significant (all P > 0.05). The slow twisting needle insertion is significantly superior to tubing needle insertion on lowering vascular tension and VER, improving EWK and BV.

Diagnostic accuracy of 22/25-gauge core needle in endoscopic ultrasound-guided sampling: systematic review and meta-analysis.

PubMed

Oh, Hyoung-Chul; Kang, Hyun; Lee, Jae Young; Choi, Geun Joo; Choi, Jung Sik

2016-11-01

To compare the diagnostic accuracy of endoscopic ultrasound-guided core needle aspiration with that of standard fine-needle aspiration by systematic review and meta-analysis. Studies using 22/25-gauge core needles, irrespective of comparison with standard fine needles, were comprehensively reviewed. Pooled sensitivity, specificity, diagnostic odds ratio (DOR), and summary receiver operating characteristic curves for the diagnosis of malignancy were used to estimate the overall diagnostic efficiency. The pooled sensitivity, specificity, and DOR of the core needle for the diagnosis of malignancy were 0.88 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.84 to 0.90), 0.99 (95% CI, 0.96 to 1), and 167.37 (95% CI, 65.77 to 425.91), respectively. The pooled sensitivity, specificity, and DOR of the standard needle were 0.84 (95% CI, 0.79 to 0.88), 1 (95% CI, 0.97 to 1), and 130.14 (95% CI, 34.00 to 495.35), respectively. The area under the curve of core and standard needle in the diagnosis of malignancy was 0.974 and 0.955, respectively. The core and standard needle were comparable in terms of pancreatic malignancy diagnosis. There was no significant difference in procurement of optimal histologic cores between core and standard needles (risk ratio [RR], 0.545; 95% CI, 0.187 to 1.589). The number of needle passes for diagnosis was significantly lower with the core needle (standardized mean difference, -0.72; 95% CI, -1.02 to -0.41). There were no significant differences in overall complications (RR, 1.26; 95% CI, 0.34 to 4.62) and technical failure (RR, 5.07; 95% CI, 0.68 to 37.64). Core and standard needles were comparable in terms of diagnostic accuracy, technical performance, and safety profile.

Evaluation of humoral, mucosal, and cellular immune responses following co-immunization of HIV-1 Gag and Env proteins expressed by Newcastle disease virus

PubMed Central

Khattar, Sunil K; Palaniyandi, Senthilkumar; Samal, Sweety; LaBranche, Celia C; Montefiori, David C; Zhu, Xiaoping; Samal, Siba K

2015-01-01

The combination of multiple HIV antigens in a vaccine can broaden antiviral immune responses. In this study, we used NDV vaccine strain LaSota to generate rNDV (rLaSota/optGag) expressing human codon optimized p55 Gag protein of HIV-1. We examined the effect of co-immunization of rLaSota/optGag with rNDVs expressing different forms of Env protein gp160, gp120, gp140L [a version of gp140 that lacked cytoplasmic tail and contained complete membrane-proximal external region (MPER)] and gp140S (a version of gp140 that lacked cytoplasmic tail and distal half of MPER) on magnitude and breadth of humoral, mucosal and cellular immune responses in guinea pigs and mice. Our results showed that inclusion of rLaSota/optGag with rNDVs expressing different forms of Env HIV Gag did not affect the Env-specific humoral and mucosal immune responses in guinea pigs and that the potent immune responses generated against Env persisted for at least 13 weeks post immunization. The highest Env-specific humoral and mucosal immune responses were observed with gp140S+optGag group. The neutralizing antibody responses against HIV strains BaL.26 and MN.3 induced by gp140S+optGag and gp160+optGag were higher than those elicited by other groups. Inclusion of Gag with gp160, gp140S and gp140L enhanced the level of Env-specific IFN-γ-producing CD8+ T cells in mice. Inclusion of Gag with gp160 and gp140L also resulted in increased Env-specific CD4+ T cells. The level of Gag-specific CD8+ and CD4+ T cells was also enhanced in mice immunized with Gag along with gp140S and gp120. These results indicate lack of antigen interference in a vaccine containing rNDVs expressing Env and Gag proteins. PMID:25695657

Premature Needle Loss of Spruce

Treesearch

Jennifer Juzwik; Joseph G. O Brien

1990-01-01

Premature needle loss on white, black and Norway spruce has been observed in forest plantations in Wisconsin and Minnesota during the past six years. Symptoms vary by species but usually appear first in 2-4-year old needles on lower branches. Infected needles are dropped, resulting in branch mortality that progresses upward through the crown, sometimes killing even...

AFM force measurements of the gp120-sCD4 and gp120 or CD4 antigen-antibody interactions

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

Chen, Yong, E-mail: dr_yongchen@hotmail.com; Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612; Zeng, Gucheng

2011-04-08

Highlights: {yields} The unbinding force of sCD4-gp120 interaction was 25.45 {+-} 20.46 pN. {yields} The unbinding force of CD4 antigen-antibody interaction was 51.22 {+-} 34.64 pN. {yields} The unbinding force of gp120 antigen-antibody interaction was 89.87 {+-} 44.63 pN. {yields} The interaction forces between various HIV inhibitors and the target molecules are significantly different. {yields} Functionalizing on AFM tip or substrate of an interaction pair caused different results. -- Abstract: Soluble CD4 (sCD4), anti-CD4 antibody, and anti-gp120 antibody have long been regarded as entry inhibitors in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) therapy. However, the interactions between these HIV entry inhibitors andmore » corresponding target molecules are still poorly understood. In this study, atomic force microscopy (AFM) was utilized to investigate the interaction forces among them. We found that the unbinding forces of sCD4-gp120 interaction, CD4 antigen-antibody interaction, and gp120 antigen-antibody interaction were 25.45 {+-} 20.46, 51.22 {+-} 34.64, and 89.87 {+-} 44.63 pN, respectively, which may provide important mechanical information for understanding the effects of viral entry inhibitors on HIV infection. Moreover, we found that the functionalization of an interaction pair on AFM tip or substrate significantly influenced the results, implying that we must perform AFM force measurement and analyze the data with more caution.« less

[Stiletto needle and needle-knife for influence of gravity index in treating knee osteoarthritis].

PubMed

Gu, Li-Jun; Zhang, Bin; Li, Wen-Hua; Tang, Yan; Dong, Fu-Hui

2017-12-25

To explore stiletto needle and needle-knife for influence of double sufficient weight in treating knee osteoarthritis patients. One hundred and thirteen early and medium term knee osteoarthritis patients were randomly divided into three groups, including stiletto needle group(38 cases), needle-knife group (38 cases) and voltaren group (37 cases). In stiletto needle group, there were 13 males and 25 females with an average of(55.87±7.72) years old, treated by stiletto needle once a week, and 2 weeks were a course; there were 11 males and 27 females in needle-knife group with an average of(57.11±7.07) years old, treated by acupotome once a week, and 2 weeks were a course; there were 12 males and 25 females in voltaren group with an average age of(57.62±8.08) years old, treated by votalin emulsion smearing 3 to 5 cm on painful area of knee joint, three times a day for 2 weeks; 36 patients in normal group, including 11 males and 25 females with a mean age of (55.28±7.55) years old, treated with nothing. Gravitational four lattice used to measure bipedal back and forth load before and after treatment in further observe weight-bearing situation among three groups, d value, which was the distance from center of gravity to original point, was measured as a obvervational index, JOA score was used to evaluate clinical effect. Five patients were fall out, including 2 patients in stiletto needle group, 2 patients in needle-knife group and 1 patient in voltaren group. Other 108 patients were followed-up from 28 to 35 d with an average of 30 d, and without untoward effect. There was significant difference in d value between treatment group and control group at 1 month after treatment( P <0.05); there was significant difference in d value among treatment group at 1 month after treatment( P >0.05), and d value was decreased before treatment than that of after treatment. There was no significant difference in JOA score among treatment group after treatment at 1 month( P <0

Properties of southern pine needles

Treesearch

E.T. Howard

1973-01-01

To investigate properties that might be related to utilization, needles were sampled on one tree of each of the four major species. Tensile strength was measured on loblolly needles only; it ranged from 4,630 to 6,980 psi. Maximum load averaged 4.1 pounds per needle, with a modulus of elasticity of 220,000 psi. Specific gravity (ovendry weight, green volume of...

Secure Container For Discarded Hypodermic Needles

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lee, Angelene M.

1992-01-01

Container designed for safe retention of discarded blood-collecting hypodermic needles and similar sharp objects used in life-science experiments aboard spacecraft. Needles inserted through self-closing lid and retained magnetically. They are inserted, sharp end first, through spring-loaded flap. Long needles and needles on syringes cannot turn around in container. Can be emptied, cleaned, and reused. Used on Earth to provide unusually secure containment of sharp objects.

Morphological analysis of the tail structures of comet P/Halley 1910 II

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Voelzke, M. R.; Izaguirre, L. S.

2012-05-01

For the purpose of identifying, measuring and correlating the morphological structures along the plasma tail of P/Halley 886 images from September 1909 to May 1911 are analysed. These images are from the Atlas of Comet Halley 1910 II (Donn et al., 1986). A systematic visual analysis revealed 304 wavy structures along the main tail and 164 along the secondary tails, 41 solitary waves (solitons), 13 Swan-like tails, 26 disconnection events (DEs), 166 knots (regions of higher density of matter) and six shells. While the wavy structures denote undulations or a train of waves, the solitons refer to the formations usually denominated as kinks. In general, it is possible to associate the occurrence of a DE and/or a Swan-Tail with the occurrence of a knot, but the last one may occur independently. It is also possible to say that the solitons occur in association with the wavy structures, but the reverse is not true. The 26 DEs documented in 26 different images allowed the derivation of two onsets of DEs (Table 1), i.e., the time when the comet supposedly crossed a frontier between magnetic sectors of the solar wind (Brandt and Snow, 2000). Both onsets of DEs were determined after the perihelion passage with an average of the corrected velocities Vc equal to (57±15) km s-1. The mean value of the corrected wavelength λc measured in 70 different wavy structures is equal to (1.7±0.1)×106 km and the mean amplitude A of the wave (measured in the same 70 wavy structures cited above) is equal to (1.4±0.1)×105 km. The mean value of the corrected cometocentric phase velocity Vpc measured in 20 different wavy structures is equal to (168±28) km s-1. The average value of the corrected velocities Vkc of the knots measured in 36 different images is equal to (128±12) km s-1. There is a tendency for A and λc to increase with increasing cometocentric distance. The results of this work agree with the earlier research from Voelzke and Matsuura (1998), which analysed comet P

77 FR 73635 - Northwest Storage GP, LLC; Notice of Application

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-12-11

... DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY Federal Energy Regulatory Commission [Docket No. CP13-18-000; PF12-2-000] Northwest Storage GP, LLC; Notice of Application Take notice that on November 21, 2012, Northwest Storage GP..., Northwest Storage GP, LLC., 295 Chipeta Way, Salt Lake City, Utah 84108, by phone at 801-584-6857 or by...

GP wellbeing and general practice issues.

PubMed

Murfett, Amanda; Charman, Denise

2006-09-01

Studies of general practitioner wellbeing have demonstrated remarkably consistent findings. However, the implications for day-to-day general practice have been unclear. This study was based on a survey comprising items extracted from transcripts of interviews with GPs and designed to link general practice issues with self reported wellbeing. 480 GP Australian Family Physician (AFP) subscribers (2.18% response rate); aged 26-81 years (mean 45.5 years); 273 (56.9%) men and 199 (43.1%) women. A survey insert in AFP September 2003 with questions about wellbeing, demographic details and 27 items about general practice issues. Almost 15% reported poor/very poor wellbeing, 47% reported good wellbeing and 38% reported very good/excellent wellbeing. Poor wellbeing was associated with being single, divorced or widowed, and reports of being alone in an adversarial context and more negative reactions to patients. Excellent or very good wellbeing was associated with being coupled and reports of general practice as a vocation. Targeted wellbeing strategies advocating social support may ameliorate the stress of general practice, especially for those GPs who are single.

Ultrasound-guided, minimally invasive, percutaneous needle puncture treatment for tennis elbow.

PubMed

Zhu, Jiaan; Hu, Bing; Xing, Chunyan; Li, Jia

2008-10-01

This report evaluates the efficacy of percutaneous needle puncture under sonographic guidance in treating lateral epicondylitis (tennis-elbow). Ultrasound-guided percutaneous needle puncture was performed on 76 patients who presented with persistent elbow pain. Under a local anesthetic and sonographic guidance, a needle was advanced into the calcification foci and the calcifications were mechanically fragmented. This was followed by a local injection of 25 mg prednisone acetate and 1% lidocaine. If no calcification was found then multiple punctures were performed followed by local injection of 25 mg prednisone acetate and 1% lidocaine. A visual analog scale (VAS) was used to evaluate the degree of pain pre-and posttreatment at 1 week to 24 weeks. Elbow function improvement and degree of self-satisfaction were also evaluated. Of the 76 patients, 55% were rated with excellent treatment outcome, 32% good, 11% average, and 3% poor. From 3 weeks posttreatment, VAS scores were significantly reduced compared with the pretreatment score (P<0.05) and continued to gradually decline up to 24 weeks posttreatment. Sonography demonstrated that the calcified lesions disappeared completely in 13% of the patients, were reduced in 61% of the patients, and did not change in 26% of the patients. Color Doppler flow signal used to assess hemodynamic changes showed a significant improvement after treatment in most patients. Ultrasound-guided percutaneous needle puncture is an effective and minimally invasive treatment for tennis elbow. Sonography can be used to accurately identify the puncture location and monitor changes.

Murine serum glycoprotein gp70 behaves as an acute phase reactant

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

Hara, I.; Izui, S.; Dixon, F.J.

1982-02-01

A single intraperitoneal injection of bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) or its lipid A component induced high levels of glycoprotein, gp70, in sera of several strains of mice within 24 h. This serum gp70 response induced by LPS was independent of the activation of B cells and the presence of T cells. However, serological and immunohistochemical studies demonstrated the production of gp70 by hepatic parenchymal cells and its subsequent release into the circulating blood. The expression of gp70 in the serum was enhanced not only by LPS but also other inducers of acute phase reactants (APR) such as turpentine oil or polyriboinosinic-polyribocytidylicmore » acid. Further, the serum gp70 response was kinetically identical to those of APR. These results strongly suggest that (a) the liver may be the major source for serum gp70, (b) serum gp70 behaves like an APR, (c) its expression may be controlled by a mechanism similar to that for other APR, and (d) this glycoprotein apparently behaves as a normal host constituent and not a product of a viral genome.« less

Differences in signal peptide processing between GP3 glycoproteins of Arteriviridae.

PubMed

Zhang, Minze; Veit, Michael

2018-04-01

We reported previously that carbohydrate attachment to an overlapping glycosylation site adjacent to the signal peptide of GP3 from equine arteritis virus (EAV) prevents cleavage. Here we investigated whether this unusual processing scheme is a feature of GP3s of other Arteriviridae, which all contain a glycosylation site at a similar position. Expression of GP3 from type-1 and type-2 porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) and from lactate dehydrogenase-elevating virus (LDV) revealed that the first glycosylation site is used, but has no effect on signal peptide cleavage. Comparison of the SDS-PAGE mobility of deglycosylated GP3 from PRRSV and LDV with mutants having or not having a signal peptide showed that GP3´s signal peptide is cleaved. Swapping the signal peptides between GP3 of EAV and PRRSV revealed that the information for co-translational processing is not encoded in the signal peptide, but in the remaining part of GP3. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Percutaneous CT-Guided Biopsy of the Lung: Comparison Between Aspiration and Automated Cutting Needles Using a Coaxial Technique

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

Laurent, Francois; Latrabe, Valerie; Vergier, Beatrice

2000-07-15

Purpose: To compare the accuracy and complication rate of two different CT-guided transthoracic needle biopsy techniques: fine needle aspiration and an automated biopsy device.Methods: Two consecutive series of respectively 125 (group A) and 98 (group B) biopsies performed using 20-22 gauge coaxial fine needle aspiration (group A) and an automated 19.5 gauge coaxial biopsy device (group B) were compared in terms of their accuracy and complication rate.Results: Groups A and B included respectively 100 (80%) and 77 (79%) malignant lesions and 25 (20%) and 18 (21%) benign lesions. No significant difference was found between the two series concerning patients, lesions,more » and procedural variables. For a diagnosis of malignancy, a statistically significant difference in sensitivity was found (82.7% vs 97.4%) between results obtained with the automated biopsy device and fine needle aspiration respectively. For a diagnosis of malignancy, the false negative rate of the biopsy result was significantly higher (p <0.005) in group A (17%) than in group B (2.6%). For a specific diagnosis of benignity, no statistically significant difference was found between the two groups (44% vs 26%) but the automated biopsy device provided fewer indeterminate cases. There was no difference between the two groups concerning the pneumothorax rate, which was 20% in group A and 15% in group B, or the hemoptysis rate, which was 2.4% in group A and 4% in group B.Conclusion: For a diagnosis of malignancy when a cytopathologist is not available on-site, automated biopsy devices provide a lower rate of false negative results and a similar complication rate to fine needle aspiration.« less

[Treatment of Persistent Somatoform Pain Disorder by Floating Needle Therapy and Duloxetine].

PubMed

Ren, Wan-wen; Zhou, Zhi-ying; Xu, Mi-mi; Long, Sen; Tang, Guang-zheng; Mao, Hong-jing; Chen, Shu-lin

2016-02-01

treatment (P < 0.05, P < 0.01). (2) There were 3 patients (8.3%) who had adverse reactions in the floating needle treatment group, 17 (50.0%) in the duloxetine treatment group, and 7 (21.2%) in the placebo treatment group. Compared with the placebo treatment group, the incidence of adverse reaction increased in the duloxetine treatment group (χ² = 6.04, P < 0.05). Besides, it was higher in the duloxetine treatment group than in the floating needle treatment group (χ² = 14.9, P < 0.05). (3) There were 19 patients in the floating needle treatment group and 17 patients in the duloxetine treatment group involved in the follow-up study. Compared with 6 weeks after treatment, no significant difference was observed at 3 and 6 months after treatment in the score of SF-MPQ, HAMD, and HAMA in the floating needle treatment group and the duloxetine treatment group. No significant difference was observed between the two groups (P > 0.05). There were 5 patients (29.4%) who had adverse reactions in the duloxetine treatment group, and no adverse reactions were observed in the floating needle treatment group. The adverse reaction rate was significantly different between the two groups (χ² = 4.26, P < 0.05). Floating needle therapy and duloxetine were effective in treatment of patients with PSPD. However, floating needle therapy could relieve pain more rapidly than duloxetine, with obviously less adverse reactions.

Near-tail reconnection as the cause of cometary tail disconnections

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Russell, C. T.; Saunders, M. A.; Phillips, J. L.; Fedder, J. A.

1986-01-01

In a cometary tail disconnection event the plasma tail appears to separate from the coma and to accelerate away from it. As this occurs a new tail begins to form. It is proposed that these disconnections arise in a manner analogous to geomagnetic substorms, i.e., by the formation of a strongly reconnecting region in the near tail that forms a magnetic island in the coma and ejects the plasma tail by strengthening the magnetic 'slingshot' within the tail. This reconnection process may be triggered by several different processes, such as interplanetary shocks or variations in the Alfven Mach number.

[Needling technique of Professor Li Yan-Fang].

PubMed

Li, Li-Jun

2014-01-01

Experiences of needling techniques of Professor LI Ya- fang is introduced in this article. Gentle and superficial insertion is adopted by Professor LI in clinic. Emphases are put on the qi regulation function, needling sensation to the affected region and insertion with both hands, especially the function of the left hand as pressing hand. The gentle and superficial insertion should be done as the follows: hold the needle with the right hand, press gently along the running course of meridians with the left hand to promote qi circulation, hard pressing should be applied at acupoints to disperse the local qi and blood, insert the needle gently and quickly into the subcutaneous region with the right hand, and stop the insertion when patient has the needling sensation. While the fast needling is characterized with shallow insertion and swift manipulation: the left hand of the manipulator should press first along the running course of the meridian, and fix the local skin, hold the needle with the right hand and insert the needle quickly into the acupoint. Withdrawal of the needle should be done immediately after the reinforcing and reducing manipulations. Professor LI is accomplished in qi regulation. It is held by him that regulating qi circulation is essence of acupuncture, letting the patient get the needling sensation is the most important task of needling. Lifting, thrusting and rotation manipulations should be applied to do reinforcing or reducing. The tissue around the tip of the needle should not be too contracted or too relaxed, and the resistance should not be too strong or too weak. The feeling of the insertion hand of the practitioner should not be too smooth or too hesitant. Needle should be inserted into the skin quickly at the moment of hard pressing by the left hand. And then, slow rotation and gentle lifting and thrusting can be applied to promote the needling sensation like electric current pass through and to reach the affected region along the

Analysis of the tail structures of comet P/Halley 1910 II

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Voelzke, M. R.; Izaguirre, L. S.

Eight hundred and eighty six images from September 1909 to May 1911 are analysed for the purpose of identifying, measuring and correlating the morphological structures along the plasma tail of P/Halley. These images are from the Atlas of Comet Halley 1910 II (Donn et al. 1986). A systematic visual analysis revealed 304 wavy structures along the main tail and 164 along the secondary tails, 41 solitary waves (solitons), 13 Swan-like tails, 26 disconnection events (DEs), 166 knots and six shells. While the wavy structures denote undulations or a train of waves, the solitons refer to the formations usually denominated kinks. In general, it is possible to associate the occurrence of a DE and/or a Swan-Tail with the occurrence of a knot, but the last one may occur independently. It is also possible to say that the solitons occur in association with the wavy structures, but the reverse is not true. The 26 DEs documented in 26 different images allowed the derivation of two onsets of DEs, i.e., the time when the comet supposedly crossed a frontier between magnetic sectors of the solar wind. Both onsets of DEs were determined after the perihelion passage with an average of the corrected velocities Vc equal to (57 ± 15) km s-1. The mean value of the corrected wavelength λ c measured in 70 different wavy structures is equal to (1.7 ± 0.1) × 106 km and the mean amplitude A of the wave (measured in the same 70 wavy structures cited above) is equal to (1.4 ± 0.1) × 105 km. The mean value of the corrected cometocentric phase velocity Vpc measured in 20 different wavy structures is equal to (168 ± 28) km s-1. The average value of the corrected velocities Vkc of the knots measured in 36 different images is equal to (128 ± 12) km s-1. There is a tendency for A and λ c to increase with increasing cometocentric distance. The preliminary results of this work agree with the earlier research from Voelzke and Matsuura (1998), which analysed comet P/Halley's tail structures in its

Baculovirus GP64-mediated entry into mammalian cells.

PubMed

Kataoka, Chikako; Kaname, Yuuki; Taguwa, Shuhei; Abe, Takayuki; Fukuhara, Takasuke; Tani, Hideki; Moriishi, Kohji; Matsuura, Yoshiharu

2012-03-01

The baculovirus Autographa californica multiple nucleopolyhedrovirus (AcMNPV) serves as an efficient viral vector, not only for abundant gene expression in insect cells, but also for gene delivery into mammalian cells. Lentivirus vectors pseudotyped with the baculovirus envelope glycoprotein GP64 have been shown to acquire more potent gene transduction than those with vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV) envelope glycoprotein G. However, there are conflicting hypotheses about the molecular mechanisms of the entry of AcMNPV. Moreover, the mechanisms of the entry of pseudotyped viruses bearing GP64 into mammalian cells are not well characterized. Determination of the entry mechanisms of AcMNPV and the pseudotyped viruses bearing GP64 is important for future development of viral vectors that can deliver genes into mammalian cells with greater efficiency and specificity. In this study, we generated three pseudotyped VSVs, NPVpv, VSVpv, and MLVpv, bearing envelope proteins of AcMNPV, VSV, and murine leukemia virus, respectively. Depletion of membrane cholesterol by treatment with methyl-β-cyclodextrin, which removes cholesterol from cellular membranes, inhibited GP64-mediated internalization in a dose-dependent manner but did not inhibit attachment to the cell surface. Treatment of cells with inhibitors or the expression of dominant-negative mutants for dynamin- and clathrin-mediated endocytosis abrogated the internalization of AcMNPV and NPVpv into mammalian cells, whereas inhibition of caveolin-mediated endocytosis did not. Furthermore, inhibition of macropinocytosis reduced GP64-mediated internalization. These results suggest that cholesterol in the plasma membrane, dynamin- and clathrin-dependent endocytosis, and macropinocytosis play crucial roles in the entry of viruses bearing baculovirus GP64 into mammalian cells.

Exploring resilience in rural GP registrars--implications for training.

PubMed

Walters, Lucie; Laurence, Caroline O; Dollard, Joanne; Elliott, Taryn; Eley, Diann S

2015-07-02

Resilience can be defined as the ability to rebound from adversity and overcome difficult circumstances. General Practice (GP) registrars face many challenges in transitioning into general practice, and additional stressors and pressures apply for those choosing a career in rural practice. At this time of international rural generalist medical workforce shortages, it is important to focus on the needs of rural GP registrars and how to support them to become resilient health care providers. This study sought to explore GP registrars' perceptions of their resilience and strategies they used to maintain resilience in rural general practice. In this qualitative interpretive research, semi-structured interviews were recorded, transcribed and analysed using an inductive approach. Initial coding resulted in a coding framework which was refined using constant comparison and negative case analysis. Authors developed consensus around the final conceptual model. Eighteen GP registrars from: Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine Independent Pathway, and three GP regional training programs with rural training posts. Six main themes emerged from the data. Firstly, rural GP registrars described four dichotomous tensions they faced: clinical caution versus clinical courage; flexibility versus persistence; reflective practice versus task-focused practice; and personal connections versus professional commitment. Further themes included: personal skills for balance which facilitated resilience including optimistic attitude, self-reflection and metacognition; and finally GP registrars recognised the role of their supervisors in supporting and stretching them to enhance their clinical resilience. Resilience is maintained as on a wobble board by balancing professional tensions within acceptable limits. These limits are unique to each individual, and may be expanded through personal growth and professional development as part of rural general practice training.

A new posterior iliac puncture/aspiration needle.

PubMed

Islam, Anwarul

2016-03-25

The needles that are currently used for obtaining bone marrow aspirate samples from the posterior ilium are typically those of 1930s vintage (eg, Klima, Salah or similar needles), which were specifically designed for sternal aspiration. These needles are not designed to obtain bone marrow aspirate samples from the posterior ilium and as a result they are unsatisfactory particularly if the patient is large or obese. A new posterior iliac puncture/aspiration needle has therefore been designed, which is particularly suited for bone marrow aspiration from the posterior ilium. The needle was tested on five cadavers and on five patients. The design and construction of the needle was found to be satisfactory and a marked improvement over the conventional sternal puncture needles particularly when large or obese patients were concerned. The new posterior iliac bone marrow aspiration needle has advantages that overcome the limitations of using a conventional sternal puncture needle to obtain marrow aspirates from the posterior ilium. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://www.bmj.com/company/products-services/rights-and-licensing/

Influence of needle bevel design on injection pain and needle deformation in dental local infiltration anaesthesia - randomized clinical trial.

PubMed

Dau, M; Buttchereit, I; Ganz, C; Frerich, B; Anisimova, E N; Daubländer, M; Kämmerer, P W

2017-11-01

The aims of this in vivo study were to evaluate the impact of needle bevel design on patients' pain perception and the mechanical deformation of the needle tip after the injection. In a prospective single-blinded trial, 150 patients received conventional infiltration anaesthesia for dental treatment by one examiner. Patients were randomized for one out of three different needle bevel types (scalpel-designed bevel needle (SB), n=50; triple bevel needle (TB), n=50; regular bevel needle (RB), n=50). Subjects' self-reported injection pain perception was evaluated using a numeric rating scale (NRS). For each needle tip, deformations after single use were measured using SEM. A significant lower injection pain level was found in SB (mean 2.1±1.2) than in TB (mean 3.5±1.6;) and RB (mean 3.4±1.0; all P<0.001). A needle deformation was detected in about 97.3% of all needles (SB 50/50, TB 50/50, and RB: 46/50). A higher number of barbs were found in SB (29/50) versus TB (17/50) and RB (19/50). For dental local infiltration anaesthesia, injection needles with a scalpel-designed bevel demonstrated significantly less injection pain. Needle tip deflections after anaesthetic agent infiltration, especially barbed hooks on the non-cutting edge may result in greater soft tissue trauma. Copyright © 2017 International Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Imbalanced gp130 signalling in ApoE-deficient mice protects against atherosclerosis.

PubMed

Jones, Gareth W; McLeod, Louise; Kennedy, Catherine L; Bozinovski, Steven; Najdovska, Meri; Jenkins, Brendan J

2015-02-01

Interleukin (IL)-6 is a key modulator of the acute phase response (APR), and while both are implicated in atherosclerosis, the pathological role of specific IL-6 signalling cascades is ill-defined. Since IL-6 employs the cytokine receptor gp130 to primarily activate the STAT3 pathway, here we evaluate whether gp130-dependent STAT3 activation modulates atherosclerosis. High-fat diet-induced atherosclerosis was established in ApoE(-/-) mice crossed with gp130(F/F) knock-in mice displaying elevated gp130-dependent STAT3 activation and production of the APR protein, serum amyloid A (SAA). Also generated were gp130(F/F):Stat3(-/+):ApoE(-/-) mice displaying genetically-normalised STAT3 activation and SAA levels, and bone marrow chimeras involving ApoE(-/-) and gp130(F/F):ApoE(-/-) mice. At 10 weeks post high-fat diet, aortic atherosclerotic lesions, including the presence of CD68(+) macrophages, and plasma lipid and SAA profiles, were assessed. Aortic plaque development and plasma triglyceride levels in gp130(F/F):ApoE(-/-) mice were significantly reduced (3-fold, P < 0.001) compared to ApoE(-/-) littermates. By contrast, in gp130(F/F):ApoE(-/-) mice, atherosclerotic plaques contained augmented CD68(+) macrophage infiltrates, and plasma SAA levels were elevated, compared to ApoE(-/-) mice. Atherosclerotic lesion development and plasma triglyceride levels in gp130(F/F):ApoE(-/-) and gp130(F/F):Stat3(-/+):ApoE(-/-) mice were comparable, despite a significant (P < 0.05) reduction in macrophage numbers in lesions, and also plasma SAA levels, in gp130(F/F):Stat3(-/+):ApoE(-/-) mice. Aortic plaque development and plasma triglyceride levels were comparable in ApoE(-/-) mice reconstituted with gp130(F/F):ApoE(-/-) (ApoE(F/F:ApoE)) or ApoE(-/-) (ApoE(ApoE)) bone marrow cells. Deregulation of gp130/STAT3 signalling augments the APR and macrophage infiltration during atherosclerosis without impacting on the development of aortic plaques. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ireland Ltd

A novel prototype 3/5 laparoscopic needle driver: A validation study with conventional laparoscopic needle driver.

PubMed

Ganpule, Arvind P; Deshmukh, Chaitanya S; Joshi, Tanmay

2018-01-01

The challenges in laparoscopic suturing include need to expertise to suture. Laparoscopic needle holder is a" key" instrument to accomplish this arduous task. The objective of this new invention was to develop a laparoscopic needle holder which would be adapted to avoid any wobble (with a shaft diameter same as a 5mm port), ensure accurate and dexterous suturing not just in adult patients but pediatric patients alike (with a short shaft diameter) and finally ensure seamless throw of knots with a narrow tip configuration. We did an initial evaluation to evaluate the validity of the prototype needle holder and its impact on laparoscopic suturing skills by experienced laparoscopic surgeons and novice laparoscopic Surgeons. Both the groups of surgeons performed two tasks. The first task was to grasp the needle and position it in an angle deemed ideal for suturing. The second task was to pass suture through two fixed points and make a single square knot. At the end of the tasks each participant was asked to complete a 5- point Likert's scale questionnaire (8 items; 4 items of handling and 4 items of suturing) rating each needle holder. In expert group, the mean time to complete task 1 was shorter with prototype 3/5 laparoscopic needle holder (11.8 sec Vs 20.8 sec). The mean time to complete task 2 was also shorter with prototype 3/5 laparoscopic needle holder (103.2 sec Vs 153.2 sec). In novice group, mean time to complete both the task was shorter with prototype 3/5 laparoscopic needle holder. The expert laparoscopic surgeons as well as novice laparoscopic surgeons performed laparoscopic suturing faster and with more ease while using the prototype 3/5 laparoscopic needle holder.

A novel prototype 3/5 laparoscopic needle driver: A validation study with conventional laparoscopic needle driver

PubMed Central

Ganpule, Arvind P.; Deshmukh, Chaitanya S.; Joshi, Tanmay

2018-01-01

Introduction: The challenges in laparoscopic suturing include need to expertise to suture. Laparoscopic needle holder is a ”key” instrument to accomplish this arduous task. Instrument: The objective of this new invention was to develop a laparoscopic needle holder which would be adapted to avoid any wobble (with a shaft diameter same as a 5mm port), ensure accurate and dexterous suturing not just in adult patients but pediatric patients alike (with a short shaft diameter) and finally ensure seamless throw of knots with a narrow tip configuration. Validation: We did an initial evaluation to evaluate the validity of the prototype needle holder and its impact on laparoscopic suturing skills by experienced laparoscopic surgeons and novice laparoscopic Surgeons. Both the groups of surgeons performed two tasks. The first task was to grasp the needle and position it in an angle deemed ideal for suturing. The second task was to pass suture through two fixed points and make a single square knot. At the end of the tasks each participant was asked to complete a 5- point Likert's scale questionnaire (8 items; 4 items of handling and 4 items of suturing) rating each needle holder. In expert group, the mean time to complete task 1 was shorter with prototype 3/5 laparoscopic needle holder (11.8 sec Vs 20.8 sec). The mean time to complete task 2 was also shorter with prototype 3/5 laparoscopic needle holder (103.2 sec Vs 153.2 sec). In novice group, mean time to complete both the task was shorter with prototype 3/5 laparoscopic needle holder. Conclusion: The expert laparoscopic surgeons as well as novice laparoscopic surgeons performed laparoscopic suturing faster and with more ease while using the prototype 3/5 laparoscopic needle holder. PMID:28782740

Needle biopsy for hepatic vitamin A levels in lions (Panthera leo).

PubMed

Shamir, Merav H; Rubin, Gal; Aizenberg, Zachi; Berkovich, Zipi; Reifen, Ram; Horowitz, Igal; Bdolah-Abram, Tali; Aroch, Itamar

2012-06-01

Hypovitaminosis A (HA)-related skull malformations resulting in neurologic abnormalities and death have been, and still are, reported in captive lions (Panthera leo) worldwide. Liver vitamin A (VA) concentration is the most reliable indicator of animals' VA status, and its assessment is essential in prevention and treatment of HA in lions. A percutaneous needle liver biopsy using high-performance liquid chromatography ultraviolet retinoid analysis for VA concentration measurement was validated. It was first assessed in vitro using chicken liver. Later, the safety and feasibility of ultrasound-guided percutaneous needle liver biopsy was assessed in living lions. Hepatic VA concentrations in lion liver were measured using the above laboratory method. Mean chicken hepatic VA concentration in needle biopsy (NB) and wedge biopsy (WB) of the same liver lobes were 108.66 and 60.89 microg/g wet tissue, respectively, and were significantly (P = 0.03) correlated (r = 0.74). The calculated linear regression for predicting VA concentration in WB using NB VA for chicken liver was 25.194 + 0.3234x NB (microg/g). Four ultrasound-guided percutaneous needle liver biopsies were obtained from each of the four lions under general anesthesia. Mean hepatic VA concentration was 8.25 microg/g wet tissue (range 1.43-25.29 microg/g). Mean serum VA concentration, measured in these four lions was 1,011.1 nmol/L with a standard deviation of 337.91 nmol/L (range 590.26-1,077.2 nmol/L). The lions recovered uneventfully, and no complications were observed during a 4-yr follow-up period. In conclusion, the percutaneous needle liver biopsy technique is a reliable, practical, safe tool for obtaining liver tissue samples antemortem for assessment of the VA status in lions and can be used in future studies.

Comparative cyto-histological study of needle tip aspirates and entry sites after intravitreal injection using different needle types

PubMed Central

Lytvynchuk, Lyubomyr; Sergienko, Andrij; Savytska, Iryna; Albert, Réka; Glittenberg, Carl; Binder, Susanne; Petrovski, Goran

2017-01-01

A comparison of the cellular content of needle tip aspirates and entry sites after transconjunctival intravitreal injection (IVI) using different needle types was performed. White outbred rats and human cadaver eyes were used for IVI by hypodermic 27 gauge (G) and 30G needles, and spinal anesthesia Pencan 27G needles. Aspiration of vitreous for quantitative morphological and cell cultivation analysis, as well as cyto-histological analysis of aspirates and entry sites were carried out. The most common cells in the aspirates from all needle types were conjunctival epithelial-, ciliary body non-pigmented epithelial- and sclerocyte-like cells and granular proteins. Crystallized vitreous specimens were present in each aspirate. The entry sites of hypodermic needles showed marked trauma in all wall layers of rat and human eyes accompanied by cellular destruction and hemorrhages. Pencan 27G needle caused less tissue trauma with partial reposition of sclerocytes. Transconjunctival IVIs with hypodermic 27G and 30G, and Pencan 27G needles result in trauma of all layers of the eyeball. The possible consequences of cellular content being cut and injected into the eye, as well as the entry site wound shape deserve future consideration and improvements. PMID:28692684

Modeling and Control of Needles with Torsional Friction

PubMed Central

Reed, Kyle B.; Okamura, Allison M.; Cowan, Noah J.

2010-01-01

A flexible needle can be accurately steered by robotically controlling the bevel tip orientation as the needle is inserted into tissue. Friction between the long, flexible needle shaft and the tissue can cause a significant discrepancy between the orientation of the needle tip and the orientation of the base where the needle angle is controlled. Our experiments show that several common phantom tissues used in needle steering experiments impart substantial friction forces to the needle shaft, resulting in a lag of over 45° for a 10 cm insertion depth in some phantoms; clinical studies report torques large enough to cause similar errors during needle insertions. Such angle discrepancies will result in poor performance or failure of path planners and image-guided controllers, since the needles used in percutaneous procedures are too small for state-of-the-art imaging to accurately measure the tip angle. To compensate for the angle discrepancy, we develop an estimator using a mechanics-based model of the rotational dynamics of a needle being inserted into tissue. Compared to controllers that assume a rigid needle in a frictionless environment, our estimator-based controller improves the tip angle convergence time by nearly 50% and reduces the path deviation of the needle by 70%. PMID:19695979

The Australian Defence Force Post‑discharge GP Health Assessment.

PubMed

Reed, Richard L; Masters, Stacey; Roeger, Leigh S

2016-03-01

All former serving members of the Australian Defence Force (ADF) can receive a comprehensive health assessment from their general practitioners (GPs). The aim of this article is to describe the ADF Post-discharge GP Health Assessment and introduce a tool that assists GPs in performing the assessment. The ADF Post-discharge GP Health Assessment is intended to promote the early detection and intervention of potential mental or physical health concerns in the veteran population and facilitate the establishment of ongoing care with a GP.

Polymorphism study of Cryptosporidium hominis gp60 subtypes circulating in Tunisia.

PubMed

Essid, Rym; Chelbi, Hanen; Siala, Emna; Bensghair, Ines; Menotti, Jean; Bouratbine, Aïda

2017-09-01

Cryptosporidium spp. are a major cause of gastrointestinal diseases in humans worldwide. While a single subtype of Cryptosporidium hominis has been shown to be responsible for several large outbreaks related to water contamination in developed countries, little is known about the epidemiology of C. hominis in developing countries. This study reports the first genetic characterization of C. hominis at the subtype level in several human populations in Tunisia using the gp60 gene. Eighteen isolates were identified as C. hominis by a restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) analysis. The prevalence of this species in different human populations ranges from 1.53% to 13.04% with a high prevalence being reported in immunocompromised children (13.04%) followed by patients with malignent myeloma (5.5%) and HIV-infected patients (4.59%). The gp60 analysis on C. hominis isolates, performed in 14 cases, showed the presence of a single subtype family: "Ia". Different subtypes were identified within this family (A11G1R1, A12R3, A23G1R1, A26G1R1, A27G1R1, A28G1R1). The IaA26G1R1 subtype was the most dominant subtype described in this area (50%). Despite the high genetic diversity of Cryptosporidium spp, a low heterogeneity at the subtype level was observed within C. hominis circulating in Tunisia. This distribution is an indicator for intensive and stable anthroponotic cryptosporidiosis in this region. Besides, the presence of a unique genotype in 5 HIV-infected patients attending the same hospital ward suggests the possible occurrence of hospital-acquired infection and underlines the need to implement preventive measures to avoid nosocomial transmission. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Analysis of the NovoTwist Pen Needle in Comparison with Conventional Screw-Thread Needles

PubMed Central

Aye, Tandy

2011-01-01

Administration of insulin via a pen device may be advantageous over a vial and syringe system. Hofman and colleagues introduce a new insulin pen needle, the NovoTwist, to simplify injections to a small group of children and adolescents. Their overall preferences and evaluation of the handling of the needle are reported in the study. This new needle has the potential to ease administration of insulin via a pen device that may increase both the use of a pen device and adherence to insulin therapy. PMID:22226270

Effect and safety of deep needling and shallow needling for functional constipation: a multicenter, randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Wu, Jiani; Liu, Baoyan; Li, Ning; Sun, Jianhua; Wang, Lingling; Wang, Liping; Cai, Yuying; Ye, Yongming; Liu, Jun; Wang, Yang; Liu, Zhishun

2014-12-01

Aupuncture is widely used for functional constipation. Effect of acupuncture might be related to the depth of needling; however, the evidence is limited. This trial aimed to evaluate the effect and safety of deep needling and shallow needling for functional constipation, and to assess if the deep needling and shallow needling are superior to lactulose. We conducted a prospective, superiority-design, 5-center, 3-arm randomized controlled trial. A total of 475 patients with functional constipation were randomized to the deep needling group (237), shallow needling group (119), and lactulose-controlled group (119) in a ratio of 2:1:1. Sessions lasted 30 minutes each time and took place 5 times a week for 4 weeks in 2 acupuncture groups. Participants in the lactulose group took lactulose orally for 16 continuous weeks. The primary outcome was the change from baseline of mean weekly spontaneous bowel movements (SBMs) during week 1 to 4 (changes from the baselines of the weekly SBMs at week 8 and week 16 in follow-up period were also assessed simultaneously). Secondary outcomes were the weekly SBMs of each assessing week, the mean score change from the baseline of constipation-related symptoms over week 1 to 4, and the time to the first SBM. Emergency drug usage and adverse effects were monitored throughout the study.SBMs and constipation-related symptoms were all improved in the 3 groups compared with baseline at each time frame (P<0.01, all). The changes in the mean weekly SBMs over week 1 to 4 were 2 (1.75) in the deep needling group, 2 (1.75) in the shallow needling group, and 2 (2) in the lactulose group (P>0.05, both compared with the lactulose group). The changes of mean weekly SBMs at week 8 and week 16 in the follow-up period were 2 (2), 2 (2.5) in the deep needling group, 2 (3), 1.5 (2.5) in the shallow needling group, and 1 (2), 1 (2) in the lactulose group (P<0.05, all compared with the lactulose group). No significant difference was observed among the 3

New advantageous tool in single incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy: the needle grasper.

PubMed

Donmez, Turgut; Uzman, Sinan; Ferahman, Sina; Demiryas, Suleyman; Hatipoglu, Engin; Uludag, Server Sezgin; Yildirim, Dogan

2016-01-01

During single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy (SILC), the gallbladder is suspended with stitches, resulting in perforation risk and difficulty in exploration. We used the needle grasper in SILC to hang and manipulate the gallbladder. Sixty-five patients (43 female, 22 male) who underwent SILC between December 2013 and December 2014 were analyzed retrospectively for patient demographics, duration of operation, laparotomy or conventional laparoscopy necessity, drain use, complications, and hospital stay periods. To place the SILC port (Covidien, Inc.), the needle grasper was inserted at the right upper abdominal quadrant without an incision to hang and manipulate the gall-bladder. The mean age was 47.9 ±13.068 years; the mean body mass index (BMI) was 26.94 ±3.913 kg/m 2 . ASA scores were 1, 2, and 3. Two patients with high BMI with additional trocar use were excluded. The operations were completed without any additional trocar in 59 patients. The mean operation time was 89 ±22.41 min. Eighteen patients required a drain; all were discharged after drain removal. One patient needed re-hospitalization and percutaneous drainage and was discharged on the 9 th day. Fifty-three patients were discharged on the 1 st post-operative day. Eleven patients with drains were discharged on the 2 nd day, and 1 was discharged on the 7 th day. The mean hospital stay period was 1.26 ±0.815 days. The main difficulty of SILC is to manipulate hand tools because the triangulation principle of laparoscopy use is not possible in SILC. Inserting a needle grasper into the abdominal cavity at the right subcostal area to manipulate the gallbladder helps and does not leave a visible scar.

Polyubiquitylation of AMF requires cooperation between the gp78 and TRIM25 ubiquitin ligases.

PubMed

Wang, Ying; Ha, Seung-Wook; Zhang, Tianpeng; Kho, Dhong-Hyo; Raz, Avraham; Xie, Youming

2014-04-30

gp78 is a ubiquitin ligase that plays a vital role in endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-associated degradation (ERAD). Here we report that autocrine motility factor (AMF), also known as phosphoglucose isomerase (PGI), is a novel substrate of gp78. We show that polyubiquitylation of AMF requires cooperative interaction between gp78 and the ubiquitin ligase TRIM25 (tripartite motif-containing protein 25). While TRIM25 mediates the initial round of ubiquitylation, gp78 catalyzes polyubiquitylation of AMF. The E4-like activity of gp78 was illustrated by an in vitro polyubiquitylation assay using Ub-DHFR as a model substrate. We further demonstrate that TRIM25 ubiquitylates gp78 and that overexpression of TRIM25 accelerates the degradation of gp78. Our data suggest that TRIM25 not only cooperates with gp78 in polyubiquitylation of AMF but also gauges the steady-state level of gp78. This study uncovers a previously unknown functional link between gp78 and TRIM25 and provides mechanistic insight into gp78-mediated protein ubiquitylation.

Polyubiquitylation of AMF requires cooperation between the gp78 and TRIM25 ubiquitin ligases

PubMed Central

Kho, Dhong-Hyo; Raz, Avraham; Xie, Youming

2014-01-01

gp78 is a ubiquitin ligase that plays a vital role in endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-associated degradation (ERAD). Here we report that autocrine motility factor (AMF), also known as phosphoglucose isomerase (PGI), is a novel substrate of gp78. We show that polyubiquitylation of AMF requires cooperative interaction between gp78 and the ubiquitin ligase TRIM25 (tripartite motif-containing protein 25). While TRIM25 mediates the initial round of ubiquitylation, gp78 catalyzes polyubiquitylation of AMF. The E4-like activity of gp78 was illustrated by an in vitro polyubiquitylation assay using Ub-DHFR as a model substrate. We further demonstrate that TRIM25 ubiquitylates gp78 and that overexpression of TRIM25 accelerates the degradation of gp78. Our data suggest that TRIM25 not only cooperates with gp78 in polyubiquitylation of AMF but also gauges the steady-state level of gp78. This study uncovers a previously unknown functional link between gp78 and TRIM25 and provides mechanistic insight into gp78-mediated protein ubiquitylation. PMID:24810856

Clogging in staked-in needle pre-filled syringes (SIN-PFS): Influence of water vapor transmission through the needle shield.

PubMed

De Bardi, M; Müller, R; Grünzweig, C; Mannes, D; Rigollet, M; Bamberg, F; Jung, T A; Yang, K

2018-06-01

Staked-in needle pre-fillable syringes (SIN-PFS) are a convenient delivery system widely established in the growing pharmaceutical market. Under specific storage conditions, the needle of PFS containing high concentration drug product (DP) solution is prone to clogging, which prevents administration of the liquid. The purpose of this study is to clarify the clogging phenomenon of SIN-PFS and to elucidate the role of water vapor transmission via the needle shield. The presence of liquid within needles is a prerequisite condition for clogging and was investigated non-invasively by neutron imaging (NI) to confirm that liquid can migrate into the needle under certain processing conditions. The water vapor transmission rate (WVTR) of different needle shields was measured and the impact of temperature and relative humidity (rH) on the WVTR was investigated on sheets with the same composition as used in commercial needle shields. Our study clearly showed that the partial vapor pressure difference (ΔPP) across the needle shield is the dominant driving factor for water vapor transmission. A linear correlation between ΔPP and WVTR was found and a model to predict the water vapor transmission for PFS under specific storage conditions was developed. The impact of the WVTR on needle clogging was confirmed by clogging tests performed on SIN-PFS stored under different conditions. Thereby, we clearly show that high water loss induced by higher WVTR can be correlated to an increased occurrence of needle clogging. In conclusion, the WVTR of the needle shield plays a key role in needle clogging and the established WVTR model can be employed to assess the clogging risk for product development. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Influence of Needle Tip Distance on Barrier Discharge and Ozone Generation for Multiple Needles-Plane Electrode Configuration

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ueno, Hideki; Kawahara, Shintaro; Nakayama, Hiroshi

Relationship between barrier discharge characteristics and ozone generation under ac voltage application on triple needles-plane configuration has been investigated for various distances among triple needle-tips (d=0 ∼ 7.0mm) at constant distance between needle tip and plane (g=3.0mm) in dry air. Characteristics of barrier discharge and ozone generation depend on the needle-tips distance. It is considered that the influence is caused by space charge and accumulated charge suggested from discharge image by still camera and CCD camera. And ozone generation efficiency is also estimated by power consumption and ozone concentration. As a result, when the distance among triple needle-tips is narrow, the above-mentioned influence is strengthened. And in this case, ozone generation efficiency is improved.

Altitude profiles of total chlorinated paraffins in humus and spruce needles from the Alps (MONARPOP).

PubMed

Iozza, Saverio; Schmid, Peter; Oehme, Michael; Bassan, Rodolfo; Belis, Claudio; Jakobi, Gert; Kirchner, Manfred; Schramm, Karl-Werner; Kräuchi, Norbert; Moche, Wolfgang; Offenthaler, Ivo; Weiss, Peter; Simoncic, Primoz; Knoth, Wilhelm

2009-12-01

Chlorinated paraffins (CPs) are toxic, bioaccumulative, persistent, and ubiquitously present in the environment. CPs were analyzed in humus and needle samples, which were taken within the Monitoring Network in the Alpine Region for Persistent and other Organic Pollutants (MONARPOP) at sampling sites of 7 different altitude profiles in the Alps. Gas chromatography combined with electron ionization tandem mass spectrometry (EI-MS/MS) was used for the determination of total CPs (sum of short, medium and long chain CPs). CPs were found in all samples; the concentrations varied between 7 and 199 ng g(-1) dry weight (dw) and within 26 and 460 ng g(-1) dw in humus and needle samples, respectively. A clear vertical tendency within the individual altitude profiles could not be ascertained. Within all altitude profiles, elevated concentrations were observed in humus samples taken between 700 and 900 m and between 1300 and 1500 m. In the needle samples no similar correlation could be observed due to higher variation of the data.

Lack of gp130 expression in hepatocytes attenuates tumor progression in the DEN model.

PubMed

Hatting, M; Spannbauer, M; Peng, J; Al Masaoudi, M; Sellge, G; Nevzorova, Y A; Gassler, N; Liedtke, C; Cubero, F J; Trautwein, C

2015-03-05

Chronic liver inflammation is a crucial event in the development and growth of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Compelling evidence has shown that interleukin-6 (IL-6)/gp130-dependent signaling has a fundamental role in liver carcinogenesis. Thus, in the present study we aimed to investigate the role of gp130 in hepatocytes for the initiation and progression of HCC. Hepatocyte-specific gp130 knockout mice (gp130(Δhepa)) and control animals (gp130(f/f)) were treated with diethylnitrosamine (DEN). The role of gp130 for acute injury (0-144 h post treatment), tumor initiation (24 weeks) and progression (40 weeks) was analyzed. After acute DEN-induced liver injury we observed a reduction in the inflammatory response in gp130(Δhepa) animals as reflected by decreased levels of IL-6 and oncostatin M. The loss of gp130 slightly attenuated the initiation of HCC 24 weeks after DEN treatment. In contrast, 40 weeks after DEN treatment, male and female gp130(Δhepa) mice showed smaller tumors and reduced tumor burden, indicating a role for hepatocyte-specific gp130 expression during HCC progression. Oxidative stress and DNA damage were substantially and similarly increased by DEN in both gp130(f/f) and gp130(Δhepa) animals. However, gp130(Δhepa) livers revealed aberrant STAT5 activation and decreased levels of transforming growth factor-β (TGFβ), pSMAD2/3 and SMAD2, whereas phosphorylation of STAT3 at Tyr705 and Ser727 was absent. Our results indicate that gp130 deletion in hepatocytes reduces progression, but not HCC initiation in the DEN model. Gp130 deletion resulted in STAT3 inhibition but increased STAT5 activation and diminished TGF-dependent signaling. Hence, blocking gp130 in hepatocytes might be an interesting therapeutic target to inhibit the growth of HCC.

Molecular mechanism of transcription inhibition by phage T7 gp2 protein.

PubMed

Mekler, Vladimir; Minakhin, Leonid; Sheppard, Carol; Wigneshweraraj, Sivaramesh; Severinov, Konstantin

2011-11-11

Escherichia coli T7 bacteriophage gp2 protein is a potent inhibitor of host RNA polymerase (RNAP). gp2 inhibits formation of open promoter complex by binding to the β' jaw, an RNAP domain that interacts with downstream promoter DNA. Here, we used an engineered promoter with an optimized sequence to obtain and characterize a specific promoter complex containing RNAP and gp2. In this complex, localized melting of promoter DNA is initiated but does not propagate to include the point of the transcription start. As a result, the complex is transcriptionally inactive. Using a highly sensitive RNAP beacon assay, we performed quantitative real-time measurements of specific binding of the RNAP-gp2 complex to promoter DNA and various promoter fragments. In this way, the effect of gp2 on RNAP interaction with promoters was dissected. As expected, gp2 greatly decreased RNAP affinity to downstream promoter duplex. However, gp2 also inhibited RNAP binding to promoter fragments that lacked downstream promoter DNA that interacts with the β' jaw. The inhibition was caused by gp2-mediated decrease of the RNAP binding affinity to template and non-template strand segments of the transcription bubble downstream of the -10 promoter element. The inhibition of RNAP interactions with single-stranded segments of the transcription bubble by gp2 is a novel effect, which may occur via allosteric mechanism that is set in motion by the gp2 binding to the β' jaw. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Hairpin Folding of HIV gp41 Abrogates Lipid Mixing Function at Physiologic pH and Inhibits Lipid Mixing by Exposed gp41 Constructs†

PubMed Central

Sackett, Kelly; Nethercott, Matthew J.; Shai, Yechiel; Weliky, David P.

2009-01-01

Conformational changes in the HIV gp41 protein are directly correlated with fusion between the HIV and target cell plasma membranes which is the initial step of infection. Key gp41 fusion conformations include an early extended conformation termed pre-hairpin which contains exposed regions and a final low energy conformation termed hairpin which has compact six-helix bundle structure. Current fusion models debate the roles of hairpin and pre-hairpin conformations in the process of membrane merger. In the present work, gp41 constructs have been engineered which correspond to fusion relevant parts of both pre-hairpin and hairpin conformations, and have been analyzed for their ability to induce lipid mixing between membrane vesicles. The data correlate membrane fusion function with the pre-hairpin conformation and suggest that one of the roles of the final hairpin conformation is sequestration of membrane perturbing gp41 regions with consequent loss of the membrane disruption induced earlier by the pre-hairpin structure. To our knowledge, this is the first biophysical study to delineate the membrane fusion potential of gp41 constructs modeling key fusion conformations. PMID:19222185

Analysis of the NovoTwist pen needle in comparison with conventional screw-thread needles.

PubMed

Aye, Tandy

2011-11-01

Administration of insulin via a pen device may be advantageous over a vial and syringe system. Hofman and colleagues introduce a new insulin pen needle, the NovoTwist, to simplify injections to a small group of children and adolescents. Their overall preferences and evaluation of the handling of the needle are reported in the study. This new needle has the potential to ease administration of insulin via a pen device that may increase both the use of a pen device and adherence to insulin therapy. © 2011 Diabetes Technology Society.

Development of Repulsive Barrier Discharge from Twin Needles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ueno, Hideki; Hata, Koji; Nakayama, Hiroshi

2007-03-01

Barrier discharge characteristics have been investigated for a twin needles-to-plane electrode configuration in dry air. The characteristics of barrier discharge under ac voltage application have been investigated for various distances between two needle tips (d=1.0--4.0 mm). We have found that corona discharge behavior strongly depends on needle-tip distance. In the case of a twin-needles configuration with a long needle-tip distance (d=4.0 mm), discharges from the two needle tips develop into a dielectric barrier with almost a straight path. On the contrary, the development of repulsive discharges from two needle tips in the gap between needles and a barrier was obtained for the shortest needle-tip distance investigated here (d=1.0 mm) and it was enhanced by increasing the peak voltage. From detailed time-resolved observations, development of repulsive discharge was observed only during positive polarity upon ac voltage application. Moreover, the degree of repulsion increased with increasing applied voltage of positive polarity. The observed unique discharge behavior can be interpreted as the effect of field relaxation induced not only by charge accumulation on the barrier surface, which is markedly enhanced at a short needle-tip distance, but also by space charge by coronas between two needles.

Targeting HIV-1 gp41-induced fusion and pathogenesis for anti-viral therapy.

PubMed

Garg, Himanshu; Viard, Mathias; Jacobs, Amy; Blumenthal, Robert

2011-12-01

HIV gp41 is a metastable protein whose native conformation is maintained in the form of a heterodimer with gp120. The non-covalently associated gp41/gp120 complex forms a trimer on the virus surface. As gp120 engages with HIV's receptor, CD4, and coreceptor, CXCR4 or CCR5, gp41 undergoes several conformational changes resulting in fusion between the viral and cellular membranes. Several lipophilic and amphiphilic domains have been shown to be critical in that process. While the obvious function of gp41 in viral entry is well-established its role in cellular membrane fusion and the link with pathogenesis are only now beginning to appear. Recent targeting of gp41 via fusion inhibitors has revealed an important role of this protein not only in viral entry but also in bystander apoptosis and HIV pathogenesis. Studies by our group and others have shown that the phenomenon of gp41-mediated hemifusion initiates apoptosis in bystander cells and correlates with virus pathogenesis. More interestingly, recent clinical evidence suggests that gp41 mutants arising after Enfuvirtide therapy are associated with CD4 cell increase and immunological benefits. This has in turn been correlated to a decrease in bystander apoptosis in our in vitro as well as in vivo assays. Although a great deal of work has been done to unravel HIV-1 gp41-mediated fusion mechanisms, the factors that regulate gp41-mediated fusion versus hemifusion and the mechanism by which hemifusion initiates bystander apoptosis are not fully understood. Further insight into these issues will open new avenues for drug development making gp41 a critical anti-HIV target both for neutralization and virus attenuation.

Intra-operative navigation of a 3-dimensional needle localization system for precision of irreversible electroporation needles in locally advanced pancreatic cancer.

PubMed

Bond, L; Schulz, B; VanMeter, T; Martin, R C G

2017-02-01

Irreversible electroporation (IRE) uses multiple needles and a series of electrical pulses to create pores in cell membranes and cause cell apoptosis. One of the demands of IRE is the precise needle spacing required. Two-dimensional intraoperative ultrasound (2-D iUS) is currently used to measure inter-needle distances but requires significant expertise. This study evaluates the potential of three-dimensional (3-D) image guidance for placing IRE needles and calculating needle spacing. A prospective clinical evaluation of a 3-D needle localization system (Explorer™) was evaluated in consecutive patients from April 2012 through June 2013 for unresectable pancreatic adenocarcinoma. 3-D reconstructions of patients' anatomy were generated from preoperative CT images, which were aligned to the intraoperative space. Thirty consecutive patients with locally advanced pancreatic cancer were treated with IRE. The needle localization system setup added an average of 6.5 min to each procedure. The 3-D needle localization system increased surgeon confidence and ultimately reduced needle placement time. IRE treatment efficacy is highly dependent on accurate needle spacing. The needle localization system evaluated in this study aims to mitigate these issues by providing the surgeon with additional visualization and data in 3-D. The Explorer™ system provides valuable guidance information and inter-needle distance calculations. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd, BASO ~ The Association for Cancer Surgery, and the European Society of Surgical Oncology. All rights reserved.

[Infraoccipital needle-knife for cervical vertigo].

PubMed

Li, Shaofang; Huang, Manhua; Lin, Zhuopeng; Chen, Xinze; Lin, Dongna; Lu, Peng; Lu, Qu

2017-03-12

To observe the clinical effect differences between infraoccipital needle-knife and massage for cervical vertigo. A total of 366 patients with cervical vertigo were randomly assigned into a needle-knife group (186 cases) and a massage group (180 cases). With cases dropping excluded, 183 cases in the needle-knife group and 176 cases in the massage group were included. Needle-knife was used at Fengchi (GB 20), infraoccipital ashi point, etc. in the needle-knife group. The treatment was given for one course, once three days, 5 times as one course. The traditional massage was applied in the massage group for one course, including systematic stroking, kneading, and the application of pressure and plucking, etc., once every two days and 7 times as one course. The dizziness handicap inventory (DHI) score was observed before and after treatment, as well as 3, 6, and 12 months after treatment. The effects were also evaluated. The total effective rate was 92.3% (169/183) in the needle-knife group, which was better than 85.2% (150/176) in the massage group ( P <0.05). Compared with those before treatment, the DHI scores at all the observation time points after treatment were improved in the two groups (all P <0.05), with better improvements after treatment as well as 3 and 6 months after treatment in the needle-knife group (all P <0.05). There was no significant difference in the improvement of DHI scores between the two groups 12 months after treatment ( P >0.05). The recurrence rate was 10.3% (12/117) in the needle-knife group, and it was 10.7% (11/103) in the massage group 12 months after treatment ( P >0.05). Infraoccipital needle-knife achieves apparent effect for cervical vertigo, which is superior to massage in short period.

GP3 is a structural component of the PRRSV type II (US) virion

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

Lima, M. de; Departamento de Microbiologia e Parasitologia, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niteroi, RJ; Ansari, I.H.

2009-07-20

Glycoprotein 3 (GP3) is a highly glycosylated PRRSV envelope protein which has been reported as being present in the virions of PRRSV type I, while missing in the type II PRRSV (US) virions. We herein present evidence that GP3 is indeed incorporated in the virus particles of a North American strain of PRRSV (FL12), at a density that is consistent with the minor structural role assigned to GP3 in members of the Arterivirus genus. Two 15aa peptides corresponding to two different immunodominant linear epitopes of GP3 derived from the North American strain of PRRSV (FL12) were used as antigen tomore » generate a rabbit monospecific antiserum to this protein. The specificity of this anti-GP3 antiserum was confirmed by radioimmunoprecipitation (RIP) assay using BHK-21 cells transfected with GP3 expressing plasmid, MARC-145 cells infected with FL12 PRRSV, as well as by confocal microscopy on PRRSV-infected MARC-145 cells. To test if GP3 is a structural component of the virion, {sup 35}S-labelled PRRSV virions were pelleted through a 30% sucrose cushion, followed by a second round of purification on a sucrose gradient (20-60%). Virions were detected in specific gradient fractions by radioactive counts and further confirmed by viral infectivity assay in MARC 145 cells. The GP3 was detected in gradient fractions containing purified virions by RIP using anti-GP3 antiserum. Predictably, the GP3 was less abundant in purified virions than other major structural envelope proteins such as GP5 and M. Further evidence of the presence of GP3 at the level of PRRSV FL12 envelope was obtained by immunogold staining of purified virions from the supernatant of infected cells with anti-GP3 antiserum. Taken together, these results indicate that GP3 is a minor structural component of the PRRSV type II (FL12 strain) virion, as had been previously described for PRRSV type I.« less

Innate immunity glycoprotein gp-340 variants may modulate human susceptibility to dental caries

PubMed Central

Jonasson, Anette; Eriksson, Christer; Jenkinson, Howard F; Källestål, Carina; Johansson, Ingegerd; Strömberg, Nicklas

2007-01-01

Background Bacterial adhesion is an important determinant of colonization and infection, including dental caries. The salivary scavenger receptor cysteine-rich glycoprotein gp-340, which mediates adhesion of Streptococcus mutans (implicated in caries), harbours three major size variants, designated gp-340 I to III, each specific to an individual saliva. Here we have examined the association of the gp-340 I to III polymorphisms with caries experience and adhesion of S. mutans. Methods A case-referent study was performed in 12-year-old Swedish children with high (n = 19) or low (n = 19) caries experiences. We measured the gp-340 I to III saliva phenotypes and correlated those with multiple outcome measures for caries experience and saliva adhesion of S. mutans using the partial least squares (PLS) multivariate projection technique. In addition, we used traditional statistics and 2-year caries increment to verify the established PLS associations, and bacterial adhesion to purified gp-340 I to III proteins to support possible mechanisms. Results All except one subject were typed as gp-340 I to III (10, 23 and 4, respectively). The gp-340 I phenotype correlated positively with caries experience (VIP = 1.37) and saliva adhesion of S. mutans Ingbritt (VIP = 1.47). The gp-340 II and III phenotypes tended to behave in the opposite way. Moreover, the gp-340 I phenotype tended to show an increased 2-year caries increment compared to phenotypes II/III. Purified gp-340 I protein mediated markedly higher adhesion of S. mutans strains Ingbritt and NG8 and Lactococcus lactis expressing AgI/II adhesins (SpaP or PAc) compared to gp-340 II and III proteins. In addition, the gp-340 I protein appeared over represented in subjects positive for Db, an allelic acidic PRP variant associated with caries, and subjects positive for both gp-340 I and Db tended to experience more caries than those negative for both proteins. Conclusion Gp-340 I behaves as a caries susceptibility protein. PMID

Design and Production of an Articulating Needle Guide for Ultrasound-Guided Needle Block Manufactured With a Three-Dimensional Printer: Technical Communication.

PubMed

Bigeleisen, Paul E

2017-05-15

Needle guides may allow the practitioner to align the needle with the probe when ultrasound-guided nerve block is performed. The author's goal was to design and fabricate an inexpensive ($1.90), disposable, needle guide that could articulate over a range from 85 degrees to 0 degrees with a three-dimension printer. Three-dimensional representations of an L50, L25, and C 60 ultrasound probe (Sono Site, Bothell, WA) were created using a laser scanner. Computer-aided design software (Solid Works, Waltham, MA) was used to design a needle bracket and needle guide to attach to these probes. A three-dimensional printer was used to fabricate the needle bracket and guide with acrylonitrile polybutadiene polystyrene. An echogenic needle was held in plane with the needle guide. The author performed a supraclavicular block in a morbidly obese patient. The needle was easily visualized. Similar guides that are commercially available cost as much as $400. A knowledge of computer-aided design is necessary for this work.

Bleb needling outcomes for failed trabeculectomy blebs in Asian eyes: a 2-year follow up.

PubMed

Tsai, Andrew S H; Boey, Pui Yi; Htoon, Hla M; Wong, Tina T

2015-01-01

To describe the outcomes of bleb needling in primary glaucoma in an Asian tertiary eye centre over a 2y period. To compare the success rates between primary angle-closure glaucoma (PACG) and primary open angle glaucoma (POAG). Lastly, to identify factors associated with success of bleb needling. This was a retrospective review of 227 patients who underwent bleb needling between June 2009 and June 2011 in Singapore National Eye Centre. The 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) augmented bleb needling was performed either at the slit lamp or in the operating theatre. Repeat bleb needlings were performed as necessary. Complete success was defined as maintenance of intraocular pressure (IOP) ≥6 mm Hg and ≤21 mm Hg, in the absence of further surgery or use of antiglaucoma medication. Qualified success met the above criteria with or without use of antiglaucoma medications. One hundred and seventy-five eyes completed the two-year follow up. Sixty-nine percent of participants had POAG and 31% had PACG. The mean interval between filtering surgery and bleb needling was 299.9±616.4d for POAG and 167.1±272.2d for PACG. Mean needling attempts were 1.9±1.4 and 2±1.6 for POAG and PACG respectively. In general, there was a statistically significant reduction of IOP ranging from 21.9% to 26.8% from month 1 through to month 24. The complete success rates at month 6 were 70.0% for POAG and 65.7% for PACG. At month 12, this decreased to 62.2% for POAG and PACG and at month 24, 57.9% for POAG and 63.0% for PACG respectively. The qualified success rates at month 6 for POAG and PACG were 23.8% and 29.9% respectively, 32.2% and 29.2% at month 12, and 34.7% and 29.6% at month 24. The success rates between POAG and PACG were not significantly different (P>0.05 for complete and qualified success at months 6, 12 and 24). An increased number of needlings and higher pre-needling IOP were associated with failure. The 5-FU augmented bleb needling within one year of trabeculectomy in Asian eyes can

Bleb needling outcomes for failed trabeculectomy blebs in Asian eyes: a 2-year follow up

PubMed Central

Tsai, Andrew S. H.; Boey, Pui Yi; Htoon, Hla M; Wong, Tina T

2015-01-01

AIM To describe the outcomes of bleb needling in primary glaucoma in an Asian tertiary eye centre over a 2y period. To compare the success rates between primary angle-closure glaucoma (PACG) and primary open angle glaucoma (POAG). Lastly, to identify factors associated with success of bleb needling. METHODS This was a retrospective review of 227 patients who underwent bleb needling between June 2009 and June 2011 in Singapore National Eye Centre. The 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) augmented bleb needling was performed either at the slit lamp or in the operating theatre. Repeat bleb needlings were performed as necessary. Complete success was defined as maintenance of intraocular pressure (IOP) ≥6 mm Hg and ≤21 mm Hg, in the absence of further surgery or use of antiglaucoma medication. Qualified success met the above criteria with or without use of antiglaucoma medications. RESULTS One hundred and seventy-five eyes completed the two-year follow up. Sixty-nine percent of participants had POAG and 31% had PACG. The mean interval between filtering surgery and bleb needling was 299.9±616.4d for POAG and 167.1±272.2d for PACG. Mean needling attempts were 1.9±1.4 and 2±1.6 for POAG and PACG respectively. In general, there was a statistically significant reduction of IOP ranging from 21.9% to 26.8% from month 1 through to month 24. The complete success rates at month 6 were 70.0% for POAG and 65.7% for PACG. At month 12, this decreased to 62.2% for POAG and PACG and at month 24, 57.9% for POAG and 63.0% for PACG respectively. The qualified success rates at month 6 for POAG and PACG were 23.8% and 29.9% respectively, 32.2% and 29.2% at month 12, and 34.7% and 29.6% at month 24. The success rates between POAG and PACG were not significantly different (P>0.05 for complete and qualified success at months 6, 12 and 24). An increased number of needlings and higher pre-needling IOP were associated with failure. CONCLUSION The 5-FU augmented bleb needling within one year of

Laser Generated Leaky Acoustic Waves for Needle Visualization.

PubMed

Wu, Kai-Wen; Wang, Yi-An; Li, Pai-Chi

2018-04-01

Ultrasound (US)-guided needle operation is usually used to visualize both tissue and needle position such as tissue biopsy and localized drug delivery. However, the transducer-needle orientation is limited due to reflection of the acoustic waves. We proposed a leaky acoustic wave method to visualize the needle position and orientation. Laser pulses are emitted on top of the needle to generate acoustic waves; then, these acoustic waves propagate along the needle surface. Leaky wave signals are detected by the US array transducer. The needle position can be calculated by phase velocities of two different wave modes and their corresponding emission angles. In our experiments, a series of needles was inserted into a tissue mimicking phantom and porcine tissue to evaluate the accuracy of the proposed method. The results show that the detection depth is up to 51 mm and the insertion angle is up to 40° with needles of different diameters. It is demonstrated that the proposed approach outperforms the conventional B-mode US-guided needle operation in terms of the detection range while achieving similar accuracy. The proposed method reveals the potentials for further clinical applications.

Tail gut cyst.

PubMed

Rao, G Mallikarjuna; Haricharan, P; Ramanujacharyulu, S; Reddy, K Lakshmi

2002-01-01

The tail gut is a blind extension of the hindgut into the tail fold just distal to the cloacal membrane. Remnants of this structure may form tail gut cyst. We report a 14-year-old girl with tail gut cyst that presented as acute abdomen. The patient recovered after cyst excision.

Telling tails: selective pressures acting on investment in lizard tails.

PubMed

Fleming, Patricia A; Valentine, Leonie E; Bateman, Philip W

2013-01-01

Caudal autotomy is a common defense mechanism in lizards, where the animal may lose part or all of its tail to escape entrapment. Lizards show an immense variety in the degree of investment in a tail (i.e., length) across species, with tails of some species up to three or four times body length (snout-vent length [SVL]). Additionally, body size and form also vary dramatically, including variation in leg development and robustness and length of the body and tail. Autotomy is therefore likely to have fundamentally different effects on the overall body form and function in different species, which may be reflected directly in the incidence of lost/regenerating tails within populations or, over a longer period, in terms of relative tail length for different species. We recorded data (literature, museum specimens, field data) for relative tail length (n=350 species) and the incidence of lost/regenerating tails (n=246 species). We compared these (taking phylogeny into account) with intrinsic factors that have been proposed to influence selective pressures acting on caudal autotomy, including body form (robustness, body length, leg development, and tail specialization) and ecology (foraging behavior, physical and temporal niches), in an attempt to identify patterns that might reflect adaptive responses to these different factors. More gracile species have relatively longer tails (all 350 spp., P < 0.001; also significant for five of the six families tested separately), as do longer (all species, P < 0.001; Iguanidae, P < 0.05; Lacertidae, P < 0.001; Scindidae, P < 0.001), climbing (all species, P < 0.05), and diurnal (all species, P < 0.01; Pygopodidae, P < 0.01) species; geckos without specialized tails (P < 0.05); or active-foraging skinks (P < 0.05). We also found some relationships with the data for caudal autotomy, with more lost/regenerating tails for nocturnal lizards (all 246 spp., P < 0.01; Scindidae, P < 0.05), larger skinks (P < 0.05), climbing geckos (P < 0

Comparison of two different size needles in endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration for diagnosing solid pancreatic lesions

PubMed Central

Xu, Mei-Mei; Jia, Hong-Yu; Yan, Li-Li; Li, Shan-Shan; Zheng, Yue

2017-01-01

Abstract Background: This meta-analysis aimed to provide a pooled analysis of prospective controlled trials comparing the diagnostic accuracy of 22-G and 25-G needles on endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS-FNA) of the solid pancreatic mass. Methods: We established a rigorous study protocol according to Cochrane Collaboration recommendations. We systematically searched the PubMed and Embase databases to identify articles to include in the meta-analysis. Sensitivity, specificity, and corresponding 95% confidence intervals were calculated for 22-G and 25-G needles of individual studies from the contingency tables. Results: Eleven prospective controlled trials included a total of 837 patients (412 with 22-G vs 425 with 25-G). Our outcomes revealed that 25-G needles (92% [95% CI, 89%–95%]) have higher sensitivity than 22-G needles (88% [95% CI, 84%–91%]) on solid pancreatic mass EUS-FNA (P = 0.046). However, there were no significant differences between the 2 groups in overall diagnostic specificity (P = 0.842). The pooled positive and negative likelihood ratio of the 22-G needle were 12.61 (95% CI, 5.65–28.14) and 0.16 (95% CI, 0.12–0.21), respectively. The pooled positive likelihood ratio was 12.61 (95% CI, 5.65–28.14), and the negative likelihood ratio was 0.16 (95% CI, 0.12–0.21) for the 22-G needle. The pooled positive likelihood ratio was 8.44 (95% CI, 3.87–18.42), and the negative likelihood ratio was 0.13 (95% CI, 0.09–0.18) for the 25-G needle. The area under the summary receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.97 for the 22-G needle and 0.96 for the 25-G needle. Conclusion: Compared to the study of 22-G EUS-FNA needles, our study showed that 25-G needles have superior sensitivity in the evaluation of solid pancreatic lesions by EUS–FNA. PMID:28151856

[Needle breakage during mandibular block anaesthesia: prevention and retrieval].

PubMed

Baart, J A; van Amerongen, W E; de Jong, K J M; Allard, R H B

2006-12-01

Disposable needles for dental local anaesthesia do not break easily. Still, needle breakage does occur, and is mainly caused by unexpected movements of the patient or pre-use bending of the needle by the dentist. If a dental needle breaks while administering local anaesthesia, the dentist should prevent panic. If the patient opens his mouth wide the needle might still be visible. If so, the needle is removed. If the needle is no longer visible, the site where the needle has penetrated the mucosa should be marked with a permanent marker. The dentist will contact a maxillofacial surgeon for immediate consultation. The maxillofacial surgeon will try to retrieve the broken dental needle under general anaesthesia.

The effects of needle deformation during lumbar puncture

PubMed Central

Özdemir, Hasan Hüseyin; Demir, Caner F.; Varol, Sefer; Arslan, Demet; Yıldız, Mustafa; Akil, Eşref

2015-01-01

Objective: The aim of this study is to assess deformation of the tip and deflection from the axis of 22-gauge Quincke needles when they are used for diagnostic lumbar puncture (LP). Thus, it can be determined whether constructional alterations of needles are important for predicting clinical problems after diagnostic LP. Materials and Methods: The 22-gauge Quincke needles used for diagnostic LP were evaluated. A specially designed protractor was used for measurement and evaluation. Waist circumference was measured in each patient. Patients were questioned about headaches occurring after LP. Results: A total of 115 Quincke-type spinal needles used in 113 patients were evaluated. No deflection was detected in 38 (33.1%) of the needles. Deflection between 0.1° and 5° occurred in 43 (37.3%) of the needles and deflection ≥ 5.1° occurred in 34 patients (29.6%). Forty-seven (41.5%) patients experienced post lumbar puncture headache (PLPH) and 13 (11.5%) patients experienced intracranial hypotension (IH). No statistically significant correlation between the degree of deflection and headache was found (P > 0.05). Epidural blood patch was performed for three patients. Deformity in the form of bending like a hook occurred in seven needles and IH occurred in six patients using these needles. Two of the needles used in three patients requiring blood patch were found to be bent. Conclusion: Deformation of needles may increase complications after LP. Needle deformation may lead to IH. In case of deterioration in the structure of the needle, termination of the puncture procedure and the use of a new needle could reduce undesirable clinical consequences, especially IH. PMID:25883480

The effects of needle deformation during lumbar puncture.

PubMed

Özdemir, Hasan Hüseyin; Demir, Caner F; Varol, Sefer; Arslan, Demet; Yıldız, Mustafa; Akil, Eşref

2015-01-01

The aim of this study is to assess deformation of the tip and deflection from the axis of 22-gauge Quincke needles when they are used for diagnostic lumbar puncture (LP). Thus, it can be determined whether constructional alterations of needles are important for predicting clinical problems after diagnostic LP. The 22-gauge Quincke needles used for diagnostic LP were evaluated. A specially designed protractor was used for measurement and evaluation. Waist circumference was measured in each patient. Patients were questioned about headaches occurring after LP. A total of 115 Quincke-type spinal needles used in 113 patients were evaluated. No deflection was detected in 38 (33.1%) of the needles. Deflection between 0.1° and 5° occurred in 43 (37.3%) of the needles and deflection ≥ 5.1° occurred in 34 patients (29.6%). Forty-seven (41.5%) patients experienced post lumbar puncture headache (PLPH) and 13 (11.5%) patients experienced intracranial hypotension (IH). No statistically significant correlation between the degree of deflection and headache was found (P > 0.05). Epidural blood patch was performed for three patients. Deformity in the form of bending like a hook occurred in seven needles and IH occurred in six patients using these needles. Two of the needles used in three patients requiring blood patch were found to be bent. Deformation of needles may increase complications after LP. Needle deformation may lead to IH. In case of deterioration in the structure of the needle, termination of the puncture procedure and the use of a new needle could reduce undesirable clinical consequences, especially IH.

[Comparison of efficacy and complications of 27G and 29G Sprottte needles for subarachnoid anesthesia].

PubMed

Morros-Viñoles, C; Pérez-Cuenca, M D; Cedó-Lluís, E; Colls, C; Bueno, J; Cedó-Vallobá, F

2002-11-01

Post-dural puncture headache and lumbar backache are related to needle gauge and type of point used. We aimed to determine whether the incidence of post-dural puncture headache and lumbar backache could be reduced by using fine gauge pencil-point Sprotte 27G and 29G needles. We also studied increases in technical difficulty with these needles and whether or not reducing needle gauge affected anesthetic quality. Three hundred eighty-nine patients undergoing orthopedic or lower abdominal surgery were randomly assigned to two groups for dural puncture using two Sprotte needles: 27G or 29G. We recorded time to perform puncture, number of re-insertations of the needle, number of times the technique was abandoned and anesthetic efficacy. On the second and seventh days, the patients were interviewed by telephone to check for the presence and severity of post-dural puncture headache or lumbar backache. The technical difficulty was greater with the Sprotte 29G needle, as shown by significant differences in time taken to perform the puncture and the number of re-insertions (p < 0.05). Anesthetic quality was the same in both groups and the percentage of failures was 0.5% for both. Five percent of patients in the 27G group and 3% in the 29G group experienced slight or moderate headache on the second day. No cases of severe cephalea were reported. Lumbar backache was reported on the second day by 26% and 18.5% of the patients in the 27G and 29G groups, respectively, but the rates decreased to 4.5% and 0.5% on the seventh day. The differences were significant, favoring the 29G needle. The use of 29G pencil-point needles can be recommended to reduce the incidence of headache and lumbar backache in the postoperative period, in spite of the greater technical difficulty involved, given that quality of anesthesia is maintained.

A passerine spreads its tail to facilitate a rapid recovery of its body posture during hovering

PubMed Central

Su, Jian-Yuan; Ting, Shang-Chieh; Chang, Yu-Hung; Yang, Jing-Tang

2012-01-01

We demonstrate experimentally that a passerine exploits tail spreading to intercept the downward flow induced by its wings to facilitate the recovery of its posture. The periodic spreading of its tail by the White-eye bird exhibits a phase correlation with both wingstroke motion and body oscillation during hovering flight. During a downstroke, a White-eye's body undergoes a remarkable pitch-down motion, with the tail undergoing an upward swing. This pitch-down motion becomes appropriately suppressed at the end of the downstroke; the bird's body posture then recovers gradually to its original status. Employing digital particle-image velocimetry, we show that the strong downward flow induced by downstroking the wings serves as an external jet flow impinging upon the tail, providing a depressing force on the tail to counteract the pitch-down motion of the bird's body. Spreading of the tail enhances a rapid recovery of the body posture because increased forces are experienced. The maximum force experienced by a spread tail is approximately 2.6 times that of a non-spread tail. PMID:22258552

A passerine spreads its tail to facilitate a rapid recovery of its body posture during hovering.

PubMed

Su, Jian-Yuan; Ting, Shang-Chieh; Chang, Yu-Hung; Yang, Jing-Tang

2012-07-07

We demonstrate experimentally that a passerine exploits tail spreading to intercept the downward flow induced by its wings to facilitate the recovery of its posture. The periodic spreading of its tail by the White-eye bird exhibits a phase correlation with both wingstroke motion and body oscillation during hovering flight. During a downstroke, a White-eye's body undergoes a remarkable pitch-down motion, with the tail undergoing an upward swing. This pitch-down motion becomes appropriately suppressed at the end of the downstroke; the bird's body posture then recovers gradually to its original status. Employing digital particle-image velocimetry, we show that the strong downward flow induced by downstroking the wings serves as an external jet flow impinging upon the tail, providing a depressing force on the tail to counteract the pitch-down motion of the bird's body. Spreading of the tail enhances a rapid recovery of the body posture because increased forces are experienced. The maximum force experienced by a spread tail is approximately 2.6 times that of a non-spread tail.

Electromyographic comparison of forearm muscle movements for fine skin suturing between an enlarged pen needle holder and a webster needle holder.

PubMed

Ohata, Erika; Matsuo, Kiyoshi; Ban, Ryokuya; Shiba, Masato; Yasunaga, Yoshichika

2013-01-01

For surgical suturing, a Webster needle holder uses wrist supinating with supinator and extrinsic muscles, whereas a pen needle holder uses finger twisting with intrinsic and extrinsic muscles. Because the latter is better suited to microsurgery, which requires fine suturing with less forearm muscle movement, we have recently adopted an enlarged pen needle holder scaled from a micro needle holder for fine skin suturing. In this study, we assessed whether the enlarged pen needle holder reduced forearm muscle movement during fine skin suturing as compared with the Webster needle holder. A fine skin-suturing task was performed using pen holding with the enlarged micro needle holder or scissor holding with the Webster needle holder by 9 experienced and 6 inexperienced microsurgeons. The task lasted for 60 seconds and was randomly performed 3 times for each method. Forearm flexor and extensor muscular activities were evaluated by surface electromyography. The enlarged pen needle holder method required significantly less forearm muscle movement for experienced microsurgeons despite it being their first time using the instrument. There was no significant difference between 2 methods for inexperienced microsurgeons. Experienced microsurgeons conserved forearm muscle movement by finger twisting in fine skin suturing with the enlarged pen needle holder. Inexperienced microsurgeons may benefit from the enlarged pen needle holder, even for fine skin suturing, to develop their internal acquisition model of the dynamics of finger twisting.

Comprehensive functional analysis of N-linked glycans on Ebola virus GP1.

PubMed

Lennemann, Nicholas J; Rhein, Bethany A; Ndungo, Esther; Chandran, Kartik; Qiu, Xiangguo; Maury, Wendy

2014-01-28

Ebola virus (EBOV) entry requires the virion surface-associated glycoprotein (GP) that is composed of a trimer of heterodimers (GP1/GP2). The GP1 subunit contains two heavily glycosylated domains, the glycan cap and the mucin-like domain (MLD). The glycan cap contains only N-linked glycans, whereas the MLD contains both N- and O-linked glycans. Site-directed mutagenesis was performed on EBOV GP1 to systematically disrupt N-linked glycan sites to gain an understanding of their role in GP structure and function. All 15 N-glycosylation sites of EBOV GP1 could be removed without compromising the expression of GP. The loss of these 15 glycosylation sites significantly enhanced pseudovirion transduction in Vero cells, which correlated with an increase in protease sensitivity. Interestingly, exposing the receptor-binding domain (RBD) by removing the glycan shield did not allow interaction with the endosomal receptor, NPC1, indicating that the glycan cap/MLD domains mask RBD residues required for binding. The effects of the loss of GP1 N-linked glycans on Ca(2+)-dependent (C-type) lectin (CLEC)-dependent transduction were complex, and the effect was unique for each of the CLECs tested. Surprisingly, EBOV entry into murine peritoneal macrophages was independent of GP1 N-glycans, suggesting that CLEC-GP1 N-glycan interactions are not required for entry into this important primary cell. Finally, the removal of all GP1 N-glycans outside the MLD enhanced antiserum and antibody sensitivity. In total, our results provide evidence that the conserved N-linked glycans on the EBOV GP1 core protect GP from antibody neutralization despite the negative impact the glycans have on viral entry efficiency. Filovirus outbreaks occur sporadically throughout central Africa, causing high fatality rates among the general public and health care workers. These unpredictable hemorrhagic fever outbreaks are caused by multiple species of Ebola viruses, as well as Marburg virus. While filovirus

Comparison of monovalent glycoprotein B with bivalent gB/pp65 (GP83) vaccine for congenital cytomegalovirus infection in a guinea pig model: Inclusion of GP83 reduces gB antibody response but both vaccine approaches provide equivalent protection against pup mortality.

PubMed

Swanson, Elizabeth C; Gillis, Pete; Hernandez-Alvarado, Nelmary; Fernández-Alarcón, Claudia; Schmit, Megan; Zabeli, Jason C; Wussow, Felix; Diamond, Don J; Schleiss, Mark R

2015-07-31

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) subunit vaccine candidates include glycoprotein B (gB), and phosphoprotein ppUL83 (pp65). Using a guinea pig cytomegalovirus (GPCMV) model, this study compared immunogenicity, pregnancy outcome, and congenital viral infection following pre-pregnancy immunization with a three-dose series of modified vaccinia virus Ankara (MVA)-vectored vaccines consisting either of gB administered alone, or simultaneously with a pp65 homolog (GP83)-expressing vaccine. Vaccinated and control dams were challenged at midgestation with salivary gland-adapted GPCMV. Comparisons included ELISA and neutralizing antibody responses, maternal viral load, pup mortality, and congenital infection rates. Strikingly, ELISA and neutralization titers were significantly lower in the gB/GP83 combined vaccine group than in the gB group. However, both vaccines protected against pup mortality (63.2% in controls vs. 11.4% and 13.9% in gB and gB/GP83 combination groups, respectively; p<0.0001). Reductions in pup viral load were noted for both vaccine groups compared to control, but preconception vaccination resulted in a significant reduction in GPCMV transmission only in the monovalent gB group (26/44, 59% v. 27/34, 79% in controls; p<0.05). We conclude that, using the MVA platform, the addition of GP83 to a gB subunit vaccine interferes with antibody responses and diminishes protection against congenital GPCMV infection, but does not decrease protection against pup mortality. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

HIV-1 infection: functional competition between gp41 and interleukin-2.

PubMed

Sanhadji, Kamel; Tardy, Jean-Claude; Touraine, Jean-Louis

2010-08-01

To determine whether the gp41 of HIV-1 could adhere to the interleukin (IL)-2 receptor at the surface of target cells in vitro, we analysed in vitro the possible functional competition between various forms of the HIV-1 gp41 molecule (i.e. peptides, trimeric or primary structures) and IL-2. This competition has been analysed in a test involving the proliferation of an IL-2-dependent cell line (CTLL2). The putative interaction between the IL-2 molecule and HIV-1 has also been assayed on MT4 cells (CD4(+) T lymphocytes) in culture. The gp41 trimeric molecule and an HIV-1 gp41 peptide (578-590 aminoacid sequence) dramatically inhibited CTLL2 cell proliferation, despite the presence of IL-2. The addition of serum, containing anti-gp41 antibodies, from HIV-1 patients resulted in a significant abolition of this inhibition. The concomitant incubation of IL-2 and HIV-1 with MT4 cells resulted in a strong decrease (70%) in HIV-1 p24 release. These data suggest that the gp41 of HIV-1 can use the IL-2 receptor during the process of HIV-1 infection and that there is some functional mimesis between gp41 and IL-2. Copyright 2010 Académie des sciences. Published by Elsevier SAS. All rights reserved.

In vivo evaluation of an oral delivery system for P-gp substrates based on thiolated chitosan.

PubMed

Föger, Florian; Schmitz, Thierry; Bernkop-Schnürch, Andreas

2006-08-01

Recently, thiolated polymers, so called thiomers, have been reported to modulate drug absorption by inhibition of intestinal P-glycoprotein (P-gp). The aim of the present study was to provide a proof-of-principle for a delivery system based on thiolated chitosan in vivo in rats, using rhodamine-123 (Rho-123) as representative P-gp substrate. In vitro, the permeation enhancing effect of unmodified chitosan, chitosan-4 thiobutylamidine (Ch-TBA) and the combination of Ch-TBA with reduced glutathione (GSH) was evaluated by using freshly excised rat intestinal mucosa mounted in Ussing-type chambers. In comparison to buffer only, Rho-123 transport in presence of 0.5% (w/v) chitosan, 0.5% (w/v) Ch-TBA and the combination of 0.5% (w/v) Ch-TBA/0.5% (w/v) GSH, was 1.8-fold, 2.6-fold, 3.8-fold improved, respectively. Furthermore, enteric-coated tablets based on unmodified chitosan or Ch-TBA/GSH, were investigated in vivo. In rats, the Ch-TBA/GSH tablets increased the area under the plasma concentration time curve (AUC0-12) of Rho-123 by 217% in comparison to buffer control and by 58% in comparison to unmodified chitosan. This in vivo study showed that a delivery system based on thiolated chitosan significantly increased the oral bioavailability of P-gp substrate Rho-123.

The research of knitting needle status monitoring setup

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Lu; Liao, Xiao-qing; Zhu, Yong-kang; Yang, Wei; Zhang, Pei; Zhao, Yong-kai; Huang, Hui-jie

2013-09-01

In textile production, quality control and testing is the key to ensure the process and improve the efficiency. Defect of the knitting needles is the main factor affecting the quality of the appearance of textiles. Defect detection method based on machine vision and image processing technology is universal. This approach does not effectively identify the defect generated by damaged knitting needles and raise the alarm. We developed a knitting needle status monitoring setup using optical imaging, photoelectric detection and weak signal processing technology to achieve real-time monitoring of weaving needles' position. Depending on the shape of the knitting needle, we designed a kind of Glass Optical Fiber (GOF) light guides with a rectangular port used for transmission of the signal light. To be able to capture the signal of knitting needles accurately, we adopt a optical 4F system which has better imaging quality and simple structure and there is a rectangle image on the focal plane after the system. When a knitting needle passes through position of the rectangle image, the reflected light from needle surface will back to the GOF light guides along the same optical system. According to the intensity of signals, the computer control unit distinguish that the knitting needle is broken or curving. The experimental results show that this system can accurately detect the broken needles and the curving needles on the knitting machine in operating condition.

Ozone production of hollow-needle-to-mesh negative corona discharge enhanced by dielectric tube on the needle electrode

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pekárek, Stanislav

2014-12-01

For the hollow-needle-to-mesh negative corona discharge in air, we studied the effect of placing the dielectric tube on the needle electrode and the effect of various positions of the end of this tube with respect to the tip of the needle electrode on the concentration of ozone produced by the discharge, the ozone production yield and the discharge V-A characteristics. We found that the placement of the dielectric tube on the needle electrode with a suitable position of this tube end with respect to the tip of the needle electrode for a particular discharge power led to a more than fourfold increase in the concentration of ozone produced by the discharge and also, for a constant airflow, the ozone production yield.

Inhibition of the Human ABC Efflux Transporters P-gp and ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

High body burdens of polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) in infants and young children have led to increased concern over their potential impact on human development. PBDE exposure can alter the expression of genes involved in thyroid homeostasis, including those of ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters, which mediate cellular xenobiotic efflux. However, little information exists on how PBDEs interact with ABC transporters such as P-glycoprotein (P-gp) and breast cancer resistance protein (BCRP). The purpose of this study was to evaluate the interactions of 2,2′,4,4′-tetrabromodiphenyl ether (BDE-47) and its hydroxylated metabolite 6-OH-BDE-47 with P-gp and BCRP, using human MDR1- and BCRP-expressing membrane vesicles and stably transfected NIH-3T3-MDR1 and MDCK-BCRP cells. In P-gp membranes, BDE-47 did not affect P-gp activity; however, 6-OH-BDE-47 inhibited P-gp activity at low µM concentrations (IC50 = 11.7 µM). In BCRP membranes, BDE-47 inhibited BCRP activity; however, 6-OH-BDE-47 was a stronger inhibitor [IC50 = 45.9 µM (BDE-47) vs. IC50 = 9.4 µM (6-OH-BDE-47)]. Intracellular concentrations of known P-gp and BCRP substrates [(3H)-paclitaxel and (3H)-prazosin, respectively] were significantly higher (indicating less efflux) in NIH-3T3-MDR1 and MDCK-BCRP cells in the presence of 6-OH-BDE-47, but not BDE-47. Collectively, our results indicate that the BDE-47 metabolite 6-OH-BDE-47 is an inhibitor of both P-gp and BCRP efflux activity.

Biosynthesis and processing of the Autographa californica nuclear polyhedrosis virus gp64 protein.

PubMed

Jarvis, D L; Garcia, A

1994-11-15

gp64 is a major virion envelope glycoprotein of the baculovirus Autographa californica multicapsid nuclear polyhedrosis virus (AcMNPV). gp64 plays an important role in AcMNPV infection, probably mediating penetration of one form of the virus into host cells through the endocytic pathway. gp64 also represents an excellent probe for studying the membrane glycoprotein processing capabilities of baculovirus-infected insect cells, which are used widely as a eucaryotic expression system. The goals of this study were to characterize gp64 biosynthesis and processing and determine how N-glycosylation and N-linked oligosaccharide processing influence the fate and function of gp64 in AcMNPV-infected insect cells. We found that gp64 was synthesized in a biphasic fashion, with peaks at 8 and 24 hr postinfection in both the intracellular and extracellular fractions. Interestingly, the first peak preceded detectable budded virus (BV) production, suggesting that gp64 is shed from infected cells early in infection. Transcriptional regulation accounted for the biphasic mode of gp64 protein synthesis, as transcription initiated at a consensus early motif during early times of infection, at a late motif during late times of infection, and there was a lag between the peak of early and the onset of late transcription. In vitro transcription-translation assays showed that the second ATG in the AcMNPV gp64 long open reading frame is used as the translational initiation codon and that downstream sequences encode a functional signal peptide. Pulse-chase analyses, endoglycosidases, and various inhibitors were used to show that some N-linked oligosaccharides on gp64 are processed by glucosidases and alpha-mannosidases in AcMNPV-infected insect cells. These experiments also revealed that at least two differentially processed gp64 glycoforms are produced in these cells and that both can reach the cell surface and assemble into progeny BV. However, N-linked oligosaccharide processing was not

Difficulties in spinal needle use. Insertion characteristics and failure rates associated with 25-, 27- and 29-gauge Quincke-type spinal needles.

PubMed

Tarkkila, P; Huhtala, J; Salminen, U

1994-08-01

The effect of different size (25-, 27- and 29-gauge) Quincke-type spinal needles on the incidence of insertion difficulties and failure rates was investigated in a randomised, prospective study with 300 patients. The needle size was randomised but the insertion procedure was standardised. The time to achieve dural puncture was significantly longer with the 29-gauge spinal needle compared with the larger bore needles and was due to the greater flexibility of the thin needle. However, the difference was less than 1 min and cannot be considered clinically significant. There were no significant differences between groups in the number of insertion attempts or failures and the same sensory level of analgesia was reached with all the needle sizes studied. Postoperatively, no postdural puncture headaches occurred in the 29-gauge spinal needle group, whilst in the 25- and 27-gauge needle groups, the postdural puncture headache rates were 7.4% and 2.1% respectively. The incidence of backache was similar in all study groups. We conclude that dural puncture with a 29-gauge spinal needle is clinically as easy as with larger bore needles and its use is indicated in patients who have a high risk of postdural puncture headache.

Pinyon Needle Scale (FIDL)

Treesearch

William F. McCambridge

1994-01-01

The pinyon needle scale (Matsucoccus acalyptus Herbert) is a native sap-sucking insect found in the Southwest. Feeding by scales weakens trees by killing needles older than 1 year. Sometimes small trees are killed by repeated feeding and large trees weakened to such an extent that they fall victims to attack by the bark beetle Ips confusus (LeConte). Scale infestations...

Reducing infectious complications after transrectal prostate needle biopsy using a disposable needle guide: is it possible?

PubMed

Gurbuz, Cenk; Canat, Lutfi; Atis, Gokhan; Caskurlu, Turhan

2011-01-01

To investigate whether the use of a disposable needle guide results in a decreased incidence of infectious complication after transrectal prostate needle biopsy (TPNB). Fifty five patients who underwent 10-core TPNB were randomized into two groups. A pre-biopsy blood and urine examination was performed in both groups. Group 1 (25 patients) underwent biopsy with disposable biopsy needle guide and Group 2 (30 patients) underwent biopsy with reusable biopsy needle guide. All patients had a blood and negative urine culture before the procedure. The patients received ciprofloxacin 500 mg twice a day beginning the day before the biopsy and continued for 3 days after. Serum C-reactive protein levels and urine and blood specimens were obtained 48 h after the biopsy. Primary endpoint of the study was to determine the effect of needle guide on the bacteriologic urinary tract infection (UTI) rate and secondary end point was to determine symptomatic UTI. The mean age of the patients was 63.46 (range 55 to 68) years. There were no significant differences regarding the prostate-specific antigen level, prostate size, existence of comorbidity in two groups before the procedure. Bacteriologic and symptomatic UTI was detected in 4% vs. 6.6% and 4% vs. 3.9% in Group 1 and 2 relatively (P > 0.05). The use of a disposable needle guide does not appear to minimize infection risk after TPNB. Large scale and randomized studies are necessary to determine the effect of disposable needle guide on infection rate after TPNB.

Needle thoracostomy in the treatment of a tension pneumothorax in trauma patients: what size needle?

PubMed

Zengerink, Imme; Brink, Peter R; Laupland, Kevin B; Raber, Earl L; Zygun, Dave; Kortbeek, John B

2008-01-01

A tension pneumothorax requires immediate decompression using a needle thoracostomy. According to advanced trauma life support guidelines this procedure is performed in the second intercostal space (ICS) in the midclavicular line (MCL), using a 4.5-cm (2-inch) catheter (5-cm needle). Previous studies have shown a failure rate of up to 40% using this technique. Case reports have suggested that this high failure rate could be because of insufficient length of the needle. To analyze the average chest wall thickness (CWT) at the second ICS in the MCL in a trauma population and to evaluate the length of the needle used in needle thoracostomy for emergency decompression of tension pneumothoraces. Retrospective review of major trauma admissions (Injury Severity Score >12) at the Foothills Medical Centre in Calgary, Canada, who underwent a computed tomography chest scan admitted in the period from October 2001 until March 2004. Subgroup analysis on men and women, <40 years of age and >/=40 years of age was defined a priori. CWT was measured to the nearest 0.01 cm at the second ICS in the MCL. The mean CWT in the 604 male patients and 170 female patients studied averaged 3.50 cm at the left second ICS MCL and 3.51 cm on the right. The mean CWT was significantly higher for women than men (p < 0.0001). About 9.9% to 19.3% of the men had a CWT >4.5 cm and 24.1% to 35.4% of the women studied. A catheter length of 4.5 cm may not penetrate the chest wall of a substantial amount (9.9%-35.4%) of the population, depending on age and gender. This study demonstrates the need for a variable needle length for relief of a tension pneumothorax in certain population groups to improve effectiveness of needle thoracostomy.

Simulation and experimental studies in needle-tissue interactions.

PubMed

Konh, Bardia; Honarvar, Mohammad; Darvish, Kurosh; Hutapea, Parsaoran

2017-08-01

This work aims to introduce a new needle insertion simulation to predict the deflection of a bevel-tip needle inside soft tissue. The development of such a model, which predicts the steering behavior of the needle during needle-tissue interactions, could improve the performance of many percutaneous needle-based procedures such as brachytherapy and thermal ablation, by means of the virtual path planning and training systems of the needle toward the target and thus reducing possible incidents of complications in clinical practices. The Arbitrary-Lagrangian-Eulerian (ALE) formulation in LS-DYNA software was used to model the solid-fluid interactions between the needle and tissue. Since both large deformation and fracture of the continuum need to be considered in this model, applying ALE method for fluid analysis was considered a suitable approach. A 150 mm long needle was used to bend within the tissue due to the interacting forces on its asymmetric bevel tip. Three experimental cases of needle steering in a soft phantom were performed to validate the simulation. An error measurement of less than 10 % was found between the predicted deflection by the simulations and the one observed in experiments, validating our approach with reasonable accuracy. The effect of the needle diameter and its bevel tip angle on the final shape of the needle was investigated using this model. To maneuver around the anatomical obstacles of the human body and reach the target location, thin sharp needles are recommended, as they would create a smaller radius of curvature. The insertion model presented in this work is intended to be used as a base structure for path planning and training purposes for future studies.

Transport inhibition of digoxin using several common P-gp expressing cell lines is not necessarily reporting only on inhibitor binding to P-gp.

PubMed

Lumen, Annie Albin; Li, Libin; Li, Jiben; Ahmed, Zeba; Meng, Zhou; Owen, Albert; Ellens, Harma; Hidalgo, Ismael J; Bentz, Joe

2013-01-01

We have reported that the P-gp substrate digoxin required basolateral and apical uptake transport in excess of that allowed by digoxin passive permeability (as measured in the presence of GF120918) to achieve the observed efflux kinetics across MDCK-MDR1-NKI (The Netherlands Cancer Institute) confluent cell monolayers. That is, GF120918 inhibitable uptake transport was kinetically required. Therefore, IC50 measurements using digoxin as a probe substrate in this cell line could be due to inhibition of P-gp, of digoxin uptake transport, or both. This kinetic analysis is now extended to include three additional cell lines: MDCK-MDR1-NIH (National Institute of Health), Caco-2 and CPT-B2 (Caco-2 cells with BCRP knockdown). These cells similarly exhibit GF120918 inhibitable uptake transport of digoxin. We demonstrate that inhibition of digoxin transport across these cell lines by GF120918, cyclosporine, ketoconazole and verapamil is greater than can be explained by inhibition of P-gp alone. We examined three hypotheses for this non-P-gp inhibition. The inhibitors can: (1) bind to a basolateral digoxin uptake transporter, thereby inhibiting digoxin's cellular uptake; (2) partition into the basolateral membrane and directly reduce membrane permeability; (3) aggregate with digoxin in the donor chamber, thereby reducing the free concentration of digoxin, with concomitant reduction in digoxin uptake. Data and simulations show that hypothesis 1 was found to be uniformly acceptable. Hypothesis 2 was found to be uniformly unlikely. Hypothesis 3 was unlikely for GF120918 and cyclosporine, but further studies are needed to completely adjudicate whether hetero-dimerization contributes to the non-P-gp inhibition for ketoconazole and verapamil. We also find that P-gp substrates with relatively low passive permeability such as digoxin, loperamide and vinblastine kinetically require basolateral uptake transport over that allowed by +GF120918 passive permeability, while highly permeable

Transport Inhibition of Digoxin Using Several Common P-gp Expressing Cell Lines Is Not Necessarily Reporting Only on Inhibitor Binding to P-gp

PubMed Central

Lumen, Annie Albin; Li, Libin; Li, Jiben; Ahmed, Zeba; Meng, Zhou; Owen, Albert; Ellens, Harma; Hidalgo, Ismael J.; Bentz, Joe

2013-01-01

We have reported that the P-gp substrate digoxin required basolateral and apical uptake transport in excess of that allowed by digoxin passive permeability (as measured in the presence of GF120918) to achieve the observed efflux kinetics across MDCK-MDR1-NKI (The Netherlands Cancer Institute) confluent cell monolayers. That is, GF120918 inhibitable uptake transport was kinetically required. Therefore, IC50 measurements using digoxin as a probe substrate in this cell line could be due to inhibition of P-gp, of digoxin uptake transport, or both. This kinetic analysis is now extended to include three additional cell lines: MDCK-MDR1-NIH (National Institute of Health), Caco-2 and CPT-B2 (Caco-2 cells with BCRP knockdown). These cells similarly exhibit GF120918 inhibitable uptake transport of digoxin. We demonstrate that inhibition of digoxin transport across these cell lines by GF120918, cyclosporine, ketoconazole and verapamil is greater than can be explained by inhibition of P-gp alone. We examined three hypotheses for this non-P-gp inhibition. The inhibitors can: (1) bind to a basolateral digoxin uptake transporter, thereby inhibiting digoxin's cellular uptake; (2) partition into the basolateral membrane and directly reduce membrane permeability; (3) aggregate with digoxin in the donor chamber, thereby reducing the free concentration of digoxin, with concomitant reduction in digoxin uptake. Data and simulations show that hypothesis 1 was found to be uniformly acceptable. Hypothesis 2 was found to be uniformly unlikely. Hypothesis 3 was unlikely for GF120918 and cyclosporine, but further studies are needed to completely adjudicate whether hetero-dimerization contributes to the non-P-gp inhibition for ketoconazole and verapamil. We also find that P-gp substrates with relatively low passive permeability such as digoxin, loperamide and vinblastine kinetically require basolateral uptake transport over that allowed by +GF120918 passive permeability, while highly permeable

Dry needling — peripheral and central considerations

PubMed Central

Dommerholt, Jan

2011-01-01

Dry needling is a common treatment technique in orthopedic manual physical therapy. Although various dry needling approaches exist, the more common and best supported approach targets myofascial trigger points. This article aims to place trigger point dry needling within the context of pain sciences. From a pain science perspective, trigger points are constant sources of peripheral nociceptive input leading to peripheral and central sensitization. Dry needling cannot only reverse some aspects of central sensitization, it reduces local and referred pain, improves range of motion and muscle activation pattern, and alters the chemical environment of trigger points. Trigger point dry needling should be based on a thorough understanding of the scientific background of trigger points, the differences and similarities between active and latent trigger points, motor adaptation, and central sensitize application. Several outcome studies are included, as well as comments on dry needling and acupuncture. PMID:23115475

Electromyographic Comparison of Forearm Muscle Movements for Fine Skin Suturing Between an Enlarged Pen Needle Holder and a Webster Needle Holder

PubMed Central

Ohata, Erika; Matsuo, Kiyoshi; Ban, Ryokuya; Shiba, Masato; Yasunaga, Yoshichika

2013-01-01

Background: For surgical suturing, a Webster needle holder uses wrist supinating with supinator and extrinsic muscles, whereas a pen needle holder uses finger twisting with intrinsic and extrinsic muscles. Because the latter is better suited to microsurgery, which requires fine suturing with less forearm muscle movement, we have recently adopted an enlarged pen needle holder scaled from a micro needle holder for fine skin suturing. In this study, we assessed whether the enlarged pen needle holder reduced forearm muscle movement during fine skin suturing as compared with the Webster needle holder. Methods: A fine skin-suturing task was performed using pen holding with the enlarged micro needle holder or scissor holding with the Webster needle holder by 9 experienced and 6 inexperienced microsurgeons. The task lasted for 60 seconds and was randomly performed 3 times for each method. Forearm flexor and extensor muscular activities were evaluated by surface electromyography. Results: The enlarged pen needle holder method required significantly less forearm muscle movement for experienced microsurgeons despite it being their first time using the instrument. There was no significant difference between 2 methods for inexperienced microsurgeons. Conclusions: Experienced microsurgeons conserved forearm muscle movement by finger twisting in fine skin suturing with the enlarged pen needle holder. Inexperienced microsurgeons may benefit from the enlarged pen needle holder, even for fine skin suturing, to develop their internal acquisition model of the dynamics of finger twisting. PMID:23691259

Engineering assessment of inactive uranium mill tailings: Maybell Site, Maybell, Colorado

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

None

1981-09-01

Ford, Bacon and Davis Utah Inc. has reevaluated the Maybell site in order to revise the October 1977 engineering assessment of the problems resulting from the existence of radioactive uranium mill tailings at Maybell, Colorado. This engineering assessment has included the preparation of topographic maps, the performance of core drillings and radiometric measurements sufficient to determine areas and volumes of tailings and radiation exposures of individuals and nearby populations, the investigations of site hydrology and meteorology, and the evaluation and costing of alternative corrective actions. Radon gas released from the 2.6 million dry tons of tailings at the Maybell sitemore » constitutes the most significant environmental impact, although windblown tailings and external gamma radiation also are factors. The two alternative actions presented in this engineering assessment range from millsite decontamination with the addition of 3 m of stabilization cover material (Option I), to disposal of the tailings in a nearby open pit mine and decontamination of the tailings site (Option II). Cost estimates for the two options are about $11,700,000 for stabilization in-place and about $22,700,000 for disposal within a distance of 2 mi. Three principal alternatives for the reprocessing of the Maybell tailings were examined: (a) heap leaching; (b) treatment at an existing mill; and (c) reprocessing at a new conventional mill constructed for tailings reprocessing. The cost of the uranium recovered would be about $125 and $165/lb of U/sub 3/O/sub 8/ by heap leach and conventional plant processes, respectively. The spot market price for uranium was $25/lb early in 1981. Therefore, reprocessing the tailings for uranium recovery is not economically attractive at present.« less

Detection of massive tidal tails around the globular cluster Pal 5 with SDSS commissioning data

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

Odenkirchen, Michael; Grebel, Eva K.; Rockosi, Constance M.

2000-12-01

We report the discovery of two well-defined tidal tails emerging from the sparse remote globular cluster Palomar 5. These tails stretch out symmetrically to both sides of the cluster in the direction of constant Galactic latitude and subtend an angle of 2.6{sup o} on the sky. The tails have been detected in commissioning data of the Sloan Digital Sky Survey (SDSS), providing deep five-color photometry in a 2.5{sup o}-wide band along the equator. The stars in the tails make up a substantial part ({approx} 1/3) of the current total population of cluster stars in the magnitude interval 19.5 {le} i*more » {le} 22.0. This reveals that the cluster is subject to heavy mass loss. The orientation of the tails provides an important key for the determination of the cluster's Galactic orbit.« less

[Academic origin of round magnetic needle and standardization operation].

PubMed

Cheng, Yan-Ting; Zhang, Tian-Sheng; Meng, Li-Qiang; Shi, Rui-Qi; Ji, Lai-Xi

2014-07-01

The origin and development of round magnetic needle was explored, and the structure of round magnetic needle was introduced in detail, including the handle, the body and the tip of the needle. The clinical opera tion of round magnetic needle were standardized from the aspects of the methods of holding needle, manipulation skill, tapping position, strength of manipulation, application scope and matters needing attention, which laid foundation for the popularization and application of round magnetic needle.

Dimensions of stabident intraosseous perforators and needles.

PubMed

Ramlee, R A; Whitworth, J

2001-09-01

Problems can be encountered inserting intraosseous injection needles through perforation sites. This in vitro study examined the variability and size compatibility of Stabident intraosseous injection components. The diameters of 40 needles and perforators from a single Stabident kit were measured in triplicate with a toolmakers microscope. One-way ANOVA revealed that mean needle diameter (0.411 mm) was significantly narrower than mean perforator diameter (0.427 mm) (p < 0.001). A frequency distribution plot revealed that needle diameter followed a normal distribution, indicating tight quality control during manufacture. The diameter of perforators was haphazardly distributed, with a clustering of 15% at the lower limit of the size range. However on no occasion was the diameter of a perforator smaller than that of an injection needle. We conclude that components of the Stabident intraosseous anaesthetic system are size-compatible, but there is greater and more haphazard variability in the diameter of perforators than injection needles.

Needle Thoracostomy: Does Changing Needle Length and Location Change Patient Outcome?

PubMed

Weichenthal, Lori A; Owen, Scott; Stroh, Geoffory; Ramos, John

2018-06-01

Needle thoracostomy (NT) is a common prehospital intervention for patients in extremis or cardiac arrest due to trauma. The purpose of this study is to compare outcomes, efficacy, and complications after a change in policy related to NT in a four-county Emergency Medical Services (EMS) system with a catchment area of greater than 1.6 million people. This is a before and after observational study of all patients who had NT performed in the Central California (USA) EMS system. The before, anterior midclavicular line (MCL) group consisted of all patients who underwent NT from May 7, 2007 through February 28, 2013. The after, midaxillary line (MAL) axillary group consisted of all patients who underwent NT from March 1, 2013 through January 30, 2016, after policy revisions changed the timing, needle size, and placement location for NT. All prehospital and hospital records where NT was performed were queried for demographics, mechanism of injury, initial status and post-NT clinical change, reported complications, and final outcome. The trauma registry was accessed to obtain Injury Severity Scores (ISS). Information was manually abstracted by study investigators and examined utilizing univariate and multivariate analyses. Three-hundred and five trauma patients treated with NT were included in this study, of which, 169 patients (the MCL group) were treated with a 14-guage intravenous (IV) catheter at least 5.0-cm long at the second intercostal space (ICS), MCL after being placed in the ambulance; and 136 patients (the MAL group) were treated with a 10-guage IV catheter at least 9.5-cm long at the fifth ICS, MAL on scene. The mean ISS was lower in the MAL cohort (64.5 versus 69.2; P=.007). The mortality rate was 79% in both groups. The multivariate model with regard to survival supported that a lower ISS (P<.001) and reported clinical change after NT (P=.003) were significant indicators of survival. No complications from NT were reported. Changing the timing, length of

Fluctuation Dynamics Analysis of gp120 Envelope Protein Reveals a Topologically Based Communication Network

PubMed Central

Shrivastava, Indira; LaLonde, Judith M.

2012-01-01

HIV infection is initiated by binding of the viral glycoprotein gp120, to the cellular receptor CD4. Upon CD4 binding, gp120 undergoes conformational change, permitting binding to the chemokine receptor. Crystal structures of gp120 ternary complex reveal the CD4 bound conformation of gp120. We report here the application of Gaussian Network Model (GNM) to the crystal structures of gp120 bound to CD4 or CD4 mimic and 17b, to study the collective motions of the gp120 core and determine the communication propensities of the residue network. The GNM fluctuation profiles identify residues in the inner domain and outer domain that may facilitate conformational change or stability, respectively. Communication propensities delineate a residue network that is topologically suited for signal propagation from the Phe43 cavity throughout the gp120 outer domain. . These results provide a new context for interpreting gp120 core envelope structure-function relationships. PMID:20718047

21 CFR 868.5150 - Anesthesia conduction needle.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 8 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false Anesthesia conduction needle. 868.5150 Section 868...) MEDICAL DEVICES ANESTHESIOLOGY DEVICES Therapeutic Devices § 868.5150 Anesthesia conduction needle. (a) Identification. An anesthesia conduction needle is a device used to inject local anesthetics into a patient to...

21 CFR 868.5150 - Anesthesia conduction needle.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 8 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Anesthesia conduction needle. 868.5150 Section 868...) MEDICAL DEVICES ANESTHESIOLOGY DEVICES Therapeutic Devices § 868.5150 Anesthesia conduction needle. (a) Identification. An anesthesia conduction needle is a device used to inject local anesthetics into a patient to...

21 CFR 868.5150 - Anesthesia conduction needle.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 8 2014-04-01 2014-04-01 false Anesthesia conduction needle. 868.5150 Section 868...) MEDICAL DEVICES ANESTHESIOLOGY DEVICES Therapeutic Devices § 868.5150 Anesthesia conduction needle. (a) Identification. An anesthesia conduction needle is a device used to inject local anesthetics into a patient to...

Comparison of Spinal Needle Deflection in a Ballistic Gel Model.

PubMed

Rand, Ethan; Christolias, George; Visco, Christopher; R Singh, Jaspal

2016-10-01

Percutaneous diagnostic and therapeutic procedures are commonly used in the treatment of spinal pain. The success of these procedures depends on the accuracy of needle placement, which is influenced by needle size and shape. The purpose of this study is to examine and quantify the deviation of commonly used spinal needles based on needle tip design and gauge, using a ballistic gel tissue simulant. Six needles commonly used in spinal procedures (Quincke, Short Bevel, Chiba, Tuohy, Hustead, Whitacre) were selected for use in this study. Ballistic gel samples were made in molds of two depths, 40mm and 80 mm. Each needle was mounted in a drill press to ensure an accurate needle trajectory. Distance of deflection was recorded for each needle. In comparing the mean deflection of 22 gauge needles of all types at 80 mm of depth, deflection was greatest among beveled needles [Short Bevel (9.96 ± 0.77 mm), Quincke (8.89 ± 0.17 mm), Chiba (7.71 ± 1.16 mm)], moderate among epidural needles [Tuohy (7.64 ± 0.16 mm) and least among the pencil-point needles [Whitacre (0.73 ± 0.34 mm)]. Increased gauge (25 g) led to a significant increase in deflection among beveled needles. The direction of deflection was away from the bevel with Quincke, Chiba and Short Beveled needles and toward the bevel of the Tuohy and Hustead needles. Deflection of the Whitacre pencil-point needle was minimal. There is clinical utility in knowing the relative deflection of various needle tips. When a procedure requires a needle to be steered around obstacles, or along non-collinear targets, the predictable and large amount of deflection obtained through use of a beveled spinal needle may prove beneficial.

Comparison of Spinal Needle Deflection in a Ballistic Gel Model

PubMed Central

Rand, Ethan; Christolias, George; Visco, Christopher; R. Singh, Jaspal

2016-01-01

Background Percutaneous diagnostic and therapeutic procedures are commonly used in the treatment of spinal pain. The success of these procedures depends on the accuracy of needle placement, which is influenced by needle size and shape. Objectives The purpose of this study is to examine and quantify the deviation of commonly used spinal needles based on needle tip design and gauge, using a ballistic gel tissue simulant. Materials and Methods Six needles commonly used in spinal procedures (Quincke, Short Bevel, Chiba, Tuohy, Hustead, Whitacre) were selected for use in this study. Ballistic gel samples were made in molds of two depths, 40mm and 80 mm. Each needle was mounted in a drill press to ensure an accurate needle trajectory. Distance of deflection was recorded for each needle. Results In comparing the mean deflection of 22 gauge needles of all types at 80 mm of depth, deflection was greatest among beveled needles [Short Bevel (9.96 ± 0.77 mm), Quincke (8.89 ± 0.17 mm), Chiba (7.71 ± 1.16 mm)], moderate among epidural needles [Tuohy (7.64 ± 0.16 mm) and least among the pencil-point needles [Whitacre (0.73 ± 0.34 mm)]. Increased gauge (25 g) led to a significant increase in deflection among beveled needles. The direction of deflection was away from the bevel with Quincke, Chiba and Short Beveled needles and toward the bevel of the Tuohy and Hustead needles. Deflection of the Whitacre pencil-point needle was minimal. Conclusions There is clinical utility in knowing the relative deflection of various needle tips. When a procedure requires a needle to be steered around obstacles, or along non-collinear targets, the predictable and large amount of deflection obtained through use of a beveled spinal needle may prove beneficial. PMID:27847693

GP Section selects Best Student Paper

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

The AGU Geomagnetism and Paleomagnetism (GP) Section has announced its selection of a paper entitled “Multicomponent Magnetization of the Upper Silurian-Lower Devonian Ringerike Sandstone, Adjacent Dikes, and Permian Lavas, Oslo, Norway” as the best GP student paper presented at the 1986 AGU Spring Meeting. The primary author, Dartmouth College Ph.D. candidate David Douglass, was assisted on the paper by a colleague from Lamont-Doherty Geological Observatory. Douglass received his B.S. in geology from the University of California, Los Angeles, in 1980, and in 1984, he received his M.S. in earth sciences at Dartmouth. His current studies examine the paleomagnetism, structure, and sedimentation of several North Atlantic old red sandstone basins.

[Professor WU Zhongchao's experience of penetration needling].

PubMed

Zhang, Ning; Wang, Bing; Zhou, Yu

2016-08-12

Professor WU Zhongchao has unique application of penetration needling in clinical treatment. Professor WU applies penetration needling along meridians, and the methods of penetration needling include self-meridian penetration, exterior-interior meridian penetration, identical-name meridian penetration, different meridian penetration. The meridian differentiation is performed according to different TCM syndromes, locations and natures of diseases and acupoint nature, so as to make a comprehensive assessment. The qi movement during acupuncture is focused. In addition, attention is paid on anatomy and long-needle penetration; the sequence and direction of acupuncture is essential, and the reinforcing and reducing methods have great originality, presented with holding, waiting, pressing and vibrating. Based on classical acupoint, the acupoint of penetration needling is flexible, forming unique combination of acupoints.

GP registrar well-being: a cross-sectional survey

PubMed Central

2010-01-01

Objectives To investigate the major stressors affecting GP registrars, how those at risk can be best identified and the most useful methods of managing or reducing their stress. Design, setting and participants Cross-sectional postal questionnaire of all GP registrars in one large regional training provider's catchment area. Main outcome measures The Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS), a specifically developed Registrar Stressor Scale consisting of five subscales of potential stressors, plus closed questions on how to identify and manage stress in GP registrars. Results Survey response rate of 51% (102/199). Rural difficulties followed by achieving a work/life balance were the principal stressors. Ten percent of registrars were mildly or moderately depressed or anxious (DASS) and 7% mild to moderately anxious (DASS). Registrars preferred informal means of identifying those under stress (a buddy system and talks with their supervisors); similarly, they preferred to manage stress by discussions with family and friends, debriefing with peers and colleagues, or undertaking sport and leisure activities. Conclusions This study supports research which confirms that poor psychological well-being is an important issue for a significant minority of GP trainees. Regional training providers should ensure that they facilitate formal and informal strategies to identify those at risk and assist them to cope with their stress. PMID:20181138

GP registrar well-being: a cross-sectional survey.

PubMed

Schattner, Peter; Mazalin, Dennis; Pier, Ciaran; Wainer, Jo; Ling, Mee Yoke

2010-02-09

To investigate the major stressors affecting GP registrars, how those at risk can be best identified and the most useful methods of managing or reducing their stress. Cross-sectional postal questionnaire of all GP registrars in one large regional training provider's catchment area. The Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS), a specifically developed Registrar Stressor Scale consisting of five subscales of potential stressors, plus closed questions on how to identify and manage stress in GP registrars. Survey response rate of 51% (102/199). Rural difficulties followed by achieving a work/life balance were the principal stressors. Ten percent of registrars were mildly or moderately depressed or anxious (DASS) and 7% mild to moderately anxious (DASS). Registrars preferred informal means of identifying those under stress (a buddy system and talks with their supervisors); similarly, they preferred to manage stress by discussions with family and friends, debriefing with peers and colleagues, or undertaking sport and leisure activities. This study supports research which confirms that poor psychological well-being is an important issue for a significant minority of GP trainees. Regional training providers should ensure that they facilitate formal and informal strategies to identify those at risk and assist them to cope with their stress.

A new needle on the block: EchoTip ProCore endobronchial ultrasound needle

PubMed Central

Dincer, H Erhan; Andrade, Rafael; Zamora, Felix; Podgaetz, Eitan

2016-01-01

Endobronchial ultrasound has become the first choice standard of care procedure to diagnose benign or malignant lesions involving mediastinum and lung parenchyma adjacent to the airways owing to its characteristics of being real-time and minimally invasive. Although the incidence of lung cancer has been decreasing, it is and will be the leading cause of cancer-related mortality in the next few decades. When compared to other cancers, lung cancer kills more females than breast and colon cancers combined and more males than colon and prostate cancers combined. The type of lung cancer has changed in recent decades and adenocarcinoma has become the most frequent cell type. Prognosis of lung cancer depends upon the cell type and the staging at the time of diagnosis. The cell type and molecular characteristics of adenocarcinoma may allow individualized targeted treatment. Other malignant conditions in the mediastinum and lung (eg, metastatic lung cancers and lymphoma) can be biopsied using endobronchial ultrasound needles. Endobronchial ultrasound needle biopsies provides mostly cytology specimens due to its small sizes of needles (22 gauge or larger) which may not give enough tissue to make a definitive diagnosis in malignant (eg, lymphoma) or benign conditions (eg, sarcoidosis). EchoTip ProCore endobronchial needle released in early 2014 provides histologic biopsy material. Larger tissue biopsies may potentially provide a higher diagnostic yield and it eliminates mediastinoscopy or other surgical interventions. Here we aim to review bronchoscopic approach in the diagnosis of mediastinal lesions with emphasis of EchoTip ProCore needles. PMID:27099535

Temporal Evolution of the Morphological Tail Structures of Comet P/Halley 1910 II

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Izaguirre, L. S.; Voelzke, M. R.

2004-08-01

Eight hundred and eighty six images from September 1909 to May 1911 are analysed for the purpose of identifying, measuring and correlating the morphological structures along the plasma tail of P/Halley. These images are from the Atlas of Comet Halley 1910 II (Donn et al., 1986). A systematic visual analysis revealed 304 wavy structures (Yi et al., 1998) along the main tail and 164 along the secondary tails, 41 solitary waves (solitons) (Roberts, 1985), 13 Swan-like tails (Jockers, 1985), 26 disconnection events (DEs) (Voelzke, 2002a), 166 knots (Voelzke et al., 1997) and six shells (Schulz and Schlosser, 1989). While the wavy structures denote undulations or a train of waves, the solitons refer to the formations usually denominated kinks (Tomita et al., 1987). In general, it is possible to associate the occurrence of a DE and/or a Swan-Tail with the occurrence of a knot, but the last one may occur independently. It is also possible to say that the solitons occur in association with the wavy structures, but the reverse is not true. The 26 DEs documented in 26 different images allowed the derivation of two onsets of DEs, i.e., the time when the comet supposedly crossed a frontier between magnetic sectors of the solar wind (Brandt and Snow, 2000). Both onsets of DEs were determined after the perihelion passage with an average of the corrected velocities Vc equal to (57 ± 15) km s-1. The mean value of the corrected wavelength lc measured in 70 different wavy structures is equal to (1.7 ± 0.1) x 10^6 km and the mean amplitude A of the wave (measured in the same 70 wavy structures cited above) is equal to (1.4 ± 0.1) x 10^5 km. The mean value of the corrected cometocentric phase velocity Vpc measured in 20 different wavy structures is equal to (168 ± 28) km s-1. The average value of the corrected velocities Vkc of the knots measured in 36 different images is equal to (128 ± 12) km s-1. There is a tendency for A and lc to increase with increasing cometocentric

[Controlled observation of the efficacy between floating acupuncture at Tianying point and warm-needling therapy for supraspinous ligament injury].

PubMed

Li, Xin-Wei; Shao, Xiao-Mei; Tan, Ke-Ping; Fang, Jian-Qiao

2013-04-01

To compare the efficacy difference in the treatment of supraspinous ligament injury between floating acupuncture at Tianying point and the conventional warm needling therapy. Ninety patients were randomized into a floating acupuncture group and a warm needling group, 45 cases in each one. In the floating acupuncture group, the floating needling technique was adopted at Tianying point. In the warm needling group, the conventional warm needling therapy was applied at Tianying point as the chief point in the prescription. The treatment was given 3 times a week and 6 treatments made one session. The visual analogue scale (VAS) was adopted for pain comparison before and after treatment of the patients in two groups and the efficacy in two groups were assessed. The curative and remarkably effective rate was 81.8% (36/44) in the floating acupuncture group and the total effective rate was 95.5% (42/44), which were superior to 44.2% (19/43) and 79.1% (34/43) in the warm needling group separately (P < 0.01, P < 0.05). VAS score was lower as compared with that before treatment of the patients in two groups (both P < 0.01) and the score in the floating acupuncture group was lower than that in the warm needling group after treatment (P < 0.01). Thirty-six cases were cured and remarkably effective in the floating acupuncture group after treatment, in which 28 cases were cured and remarkably effective in 3 treatments, accounting for 77.8 (28/36), which was apparently higher than 26.3 (5/19) in the warm-needling group (P < 0.01). The floating acupuncture at Tianying point achieves the quick and definite efficacy on supraspinous ligament injury and presents the apparent analgesic effect. The efficacy is superior to the conventional warm-needling therapy.

Improved Quantitation of Gluten in Wheat Starch for Celiac Disease Patients by Gel-Permeation High-Performance Liquid Chromatography with Fluorescence Detection (GP-HPLC-FLD).

PubMed

Scherf, Katharina Anne; Wieser, Herbert; Koehler, Peter

2016-10-12

Purified wheat starch (WSt) is commonly used in gluten-free products for celiac disease (CD) patients. It is mostly well-tolerated, but doubts about its safety for CD patients persist. One reason may be that most ELISA kits primarily recognize the alcohol-soluble gliadin fraction of gluten, but insufficiently target the alcohol-insoluble glutenin fraction. To address this problem, a new sensitive method based on the sequential extraction of gliadins, glutenins, and gluten from WSt followed by gel-permeation high-performance liquid chromatography with fluorescence detection (GP-HPLC-FLD) was developed. It revealed that considerable amounts of glutenins were present in most WSt. The gluten contents quantitated by GP-HPLC-FLD as sum of gliadins and glutenins were higher than those by R5 ELISA (gluten as gliadin content multiplied by a factor of 2) in 19 out of 26 WSt. Despite its limited selectivity, GP-HPLC-FLD may be applied as confirmatory method to ELISA to quantitate gluten in WSt.

REAR PROFILE OF TAIL FROM SECOND LEVEL OF TAIL DOCK ...

Library of Congress Historic Buildings Survey, Historic Engineering Record, Historic Landscapes Survey

REAR PROFILE OF TAIL FROM SECOND LEVEL OF TAIL DOCK STAND, SHOWING AIRCRAFT NUMBER (319), HORIZONTAL STABILIZER, TAIL CONE AND COOLING CTS FOR THE AUXILIARY POWER UNIT (APU), MECHANIC PAUL RIDEOUT IS LOWERING THE BALANCE PANELS ON THE STABILIZERS FOR LUBRICATION AND INSPECTION. - Greater Buffalo International Airport, Maintenance Hangar, Buffalo, Erie County, NY

Structural Plasticity and Conformational Transitions of HIV Envelope Glycoprotein gp120

PubMed Central

Korkut, Anil; Hendrickson, Wayne A.

2012-01-01

HIV envelope glycoproteins undergo large-scale conformational changes as they interact with cellular receptors to cause the fusion of viral and cellular membranes that permits viral entry to infect targeted cells. Conformational dynamics in HIV gp120 are also important in masking conserved receptor epitopes from being detected for effective neutralization by the human immune system. Crystal structures of HIV gp120 and its complexes with receptors and antibody fragments provide high-resolution pictures of selected conformational states accessible to gp120. Here we describe systematic computational analyses of HIV gp120 plasticity in such complexes with CD4 binding fragments, CD4 mimetic proteins, and various antibody fragments. We used three computational approaches: an isotropic elastic network analysis of conformational plasticity, a full atomic normal mode analysis, and simulation of conformational transitions with our coarse-grained virtual atom molecular mechanics (VAMM) potential function. We observe collective sub-domain motions about hinge points that coordinate those motions, correlated local fluctuations at the interfacial cavity formed when gp120 binds to CD4, and concerted changes in structural elements that form at the CD4 interface during large-scale conformational transitions to the CD4-bound state from the deformed states of gp120 in certain antibody complexes. PMID:23300605

The incidence of coring with blunt versus sharp needles.

PubMed

Wani, Tariq; Wadhwa, Anupama; Tobias, Joseph D

2014-03-01

With the advent of safety needles to prevent inadvertent needle sticks in the operating room (OR), a potentially new issue has arisen. These needles may result in coring, or the shaving off of fragments of the rubber stopper, when the needle is pierced through the rubber stopper of the medication vial. These fragments may be left in the vial and then drawn up with the medication and possibly injected into patients. The current study prospectively evaluated the incidence of coring when blunt and sharp needles were used to pierce rubber topped vials. We also evaluated the incidence of coring in empty medication vials with rubber tops. The rubber caps were then pierced with either an18-gauge sharp hypodermic needle or a blunt plastic (safety) needle. Coring occurred in 102 of 250 (40.8%) vials when a blunt needle was used versus 9 of 215 (4.2%) vials with a sharp needle (P < 0.0001). A significant incidence of coring was demonstrated when a blunt plastic safety needle was used. This situation is potentially a patient safety hazard and methods to eliminate this problem are needed. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Method to Reduce Target Motion Through Needle-Tissue Interactions.

PubMed

Oldfield, Matthew J; Leibinger, Alexander; Seah, Tian En Timothy; Rodriguez Y Baena, Ferdinando

2015-11-01

During minimally invasive surgical procedures, it is often important to deliver needles to particular tissue volumes. Needles, when interacting with a substrate, cause deformation and target motion. To reduce reliance on compensatory intra-operative imaging, a needle design and novel delivery mechanism is proposed. Three-dimensional finite element simulations of a multi-segment needle inserted into a pre-existing crack are presented. The motion profiles of the needle segments are varied to identify methods that reduce target motion. Experiments are then performed by inserting a needle into a gelatine tissue phantom and measuring the internal target motion using digital image correlation. Simulations indicate that target motion is reduced when needle segments are stroked cyclically and utilise a small amount of retraction instead of being held stationary. Results are confirmed experimentally by statistically significant target motion reductions of more than 8% during cyclic strokes and 29% when also incorporating retraction, with the same net insertion speed. By using a multi-segment needle and taking advantage of frictional interactions on the needle surface, it is demonstrated that target motion ahead of an advancing needle can be substantially reduced.

Period change in GP And

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rodriguez, E.; Rolland, A.; Lopez de Coca, P.

1993-05-01

GP And is a high amplitude d Scuti type star with V~10.m75, DV~0.m55, P=0.d0787 and spectral type A3 (Lopez de Coca et al. 1990, A & A 83, 51). To study the stability of its fundamental pulsation we have carried out simultaneous uvby photometry of this star in the years 1987 and 1992 at Sierra Nevada and Caltar Alto observatories, both in Spain. Ten new times of light maxima were obtained. In total, forty-one time s of light maxima (from 1973 to 1992, collected from Splittgerber 1976, Mitt. Veraend. Sterne 7, 137; Eggen 1978, IBVS 1517; Gieseking et al. 1979, A & AS 36, 457; Burchi et al. 1992, Mem. Soc. Astron. Ital. 63, 87 and us) were used to determinate the ephemeris of the light curve of GP And by means of the classical O-C method.

CT-guided percutaneous ethanol injection with disposable curved needle for treatment of malignant liver neoplasms and their metastases in retroperitoneal lymph nodes

PubMed Central

Zuo, Chang-Jing; Wang, Pei-Jun; Shao, Cheng-Wei; Wang, Min-Jie; Tian, Jian-Ming; Xiao, Yi; Ren, Fang-Yuan; Hao, Xi-Yan; Yuan, Min

2004-01-01

AIM: To explore the feasibility of computed tomography (CT)-guided percutaneous ethanol injection (PEI) using a disposable curved needle for treatment of malignant liver neoplasms and their metastases in retroperitoneal lymph nodes. METHODS: CT-guided PEI was conducted using a disposable curved needle in 26 malignant liver tumors smaller than 5 cm in diameter and 5 lymph node metastases of liver cancer in the retroperitoneal space. The disposable curved needle was composed of a straight trocar (21G) and stylet, a disposable curved tip (25 G) and a fine stylet. For the tumors found in deep sites and difficult to reach, or for hepatic masses inaccessible to the injection using a straight needle because of portal vein and bile ducts, the straight trocar was used at first to reach the side of the tumor. Then, the disposable curved needle was used via the trocar. When the needle reached the tumor center, appropriate amount of ethanol was injected. For relatively large malignant liver tumors, multi-point injection was carried out for a better distribution of the ethanol injected throughout the masses. The curved needle was also used for treatment of the metastasis in retroperitoneal lymph nodes blocked by blood vessels and inaccessible by the straight needle. RESULTS: All of the 26 liver tumors received 2 or more times of successful PEI, through which ethanol was distributed throughout the whole tumor mass. Effect of the treatment was monitored by contrast-enhanced multi-phase CT and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examinations three months later. Of the 18 lesions whose diameters were smaller than 3 cm, the necrotic change across the whole mass and that in most areas were observed in 15 and 3 tumors, respectively. Among the 8 tumors sizing up to 5 cm, 5 were completely necrotic and 3 largely necrotic. Levels of tumor seromarkers were significantly reduced in some of the cases. In 5 patients with metastases of liver cancer in retroperitoneal lymph nodes who received 1

21 CFR 872.4730 - Dental injecting needle.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 8 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Dental injecting needle. 872.4730 Section 872.4730...) MEDICAL DEVICES DENTAL DEVICES Surgical Devices § 872.4730 Dental injecting needle. (a) Identification. A dental injecting needle is a slender, hollow metal device with a sharp point intended to be attached to a...

21 CFR 872.4730 - Dental injecting needle.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 8 2013-04-01 2013-04-01 false Dental injecting needle. 872.4730 Section 872.4730...) MEDICAL DEVICES DENTAL DEVICES Surgical Devices § 872.4730 Dental injecting needle. (a) Identification. A dental injecting needle is a slender, hollow metal device with a sharp point intended to be attached to a...

21 CFR 872.4730 - Dental injecting needle.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 8 2014-04-01 2014-04-01 false Dental injecting needle. 872.4730 Section 872.4730...) MEDICAL DEVICES DENTAL DEVICES Surgical Devices § 872.4730 Dental injecting needle. (a) Identification. A dental injecting needle is a slender, hollow metal device with a sharp point intended to be attached to a...

21 CFR 872.4730 - Dental injecting needle.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 8 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false Dental injecting needle. 872.4730 Section 872.4730...) MEDICAL DEVICES DENTAL DEVICES Surgical Devices § 872.4730 Dental injecting needle. (a) Identification. A dental injecting needle is a slender, hollow metal device with a sharp point intended to be attached to a...

21 CFR 872.4730 - Dental injecting needle.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 8 2012-04-01 2012-04-01 false Dental injecting needle. 872.4730 Section 872.4730...) MEDICAL DEVICES DENTAL DEVICES Surgical Devices § 872.4730 Dental injecting needle. (a) Identification. A dental injecting needle is a slender, hollow metal device with a sharp point intended to be attached to a...

Complete genome sequence of 285P, a novel T7-like polyvalent E. coli bacteriophage.

PubMed

Xu, Bin; Ma, Xiangyu; Xiong, Hongyan; Li, Yafei

2014-06-01

Bacteriophages are considered potential biological agents for the control of infectious diseases and environmental disinfection. Here, we describe a novel T7-like polyvalent Escherichia coli bacteriophage, designated "285P," which can lyse several strains of E. coli. The genome, which consists of 39,270 base pairs with a G+C content of 48.73 %, was sequenced and annotated. Forty-three potential open reading frames were identified using bioinformatics tools. Based on whole-genome sequence comparison, phage 285P was identified as a novel strain of subgroup T7. It showed strongest sequence similarity to Kluyvera phage Kvp1. The phylogenetic analyses of both non-structural proteins (endonuclease gp3, amidase gp3.5, DNA primase/helicase gp4, DNA polymerase gp5, and exonuclease gp6) and structural protein (tail fiber protein gp17) led to the identification of 285P as T7-like phage. Sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometric analyses verified the annotation of the structural proteins (major capsid protein gp10a, tail protein gp12, and tail fiber protein gp17).

How Placebo Needles Differ From Placebo Pills?

PubMed Central

Chae, Younbyoung; Lee, Ye-Seul; Enck, Paul

2018-01-01

Because acupuncture treatment is defined by the process of needles penetrating the body, placebo needles were originally developed with non-penetrating mechanisms. However, whether placebo needles are valid controls in acupuncture research is subject of an ongoing debate. The present review provides an overview of the characteristics of placebo needles and how they differ from placebo pills in two aspects: (1) physiological response and (2) blinding efficacy. We argue that placebo needles elicit physiological responses similar to real acupuncture and therefore provide similar clinical efficacy. We also demonstrate that this efficacy is further supported by ineffective blinding (even in acupuncture-naïve patients) which may lead to opposite guesses that will further enhances efficacy, as compared to no-treatment, e.g., with waiting list controls. Additionally, the manner in which placebo needles can exhibit therapeutic effects relative to placebo pills include enhanced touch sensations, direct stimulation of the somatosensory system and activation of multiple brain systems. We finally discuss alternative control strategies for the placebo effects in acupuncture therapy.

Nuclease digestion and mass spectrometric characterization of oligodeoxyribonucleotides containing 1,2-GpG, 1,2-ApG, and 1,3-GpXpG cisplatin intrastrand cross-links.

PubMed

Williams, Renee T; Nalbandian, Jenifer N; Tu, Audrey; Wang, Yinsheng

2013-05-01

The primary mode of action for cis-diamminedichloroplatinum (II), referred to as cisplatin, toward the treatment of solid malignancies is through formation of cross-links with DNA at purine sites, especially guanines. We prepared oligodeoxyribonucleotides (ODNs) containing a 1,2-GpG, 1,2-ApG, or 1,3-GpXpG cisplatin intrastrand cross-link and the corresponding ODNs modified with (15)N2-labeled cisplatin, and characterized these ODNs with electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI-MS) and tandem MS (MS/MS). We also employed LC-MS/MS to characterize the digestion products of these ODNs after treatment with a cocktail of 4 enzymes (nuclease P1, phosphodiesterases I and II, and alkaline phosphatase). 1,2-GpG was released from the ODNs as a dinucleoside monophosphate or a dinucleotide. Analyses of the digestion products of ODNs containing a 1,2-GpG cross-link on the 5' or 3' terminus revealed that the dinucleotide carries a terminal 5' phosphate. On the other hand, digestion of the 1,3-GpXpG intrastrand cross-link yielded 3 dinucleoside products with 0, 1, or 2 phosphate groups. The availability of the ODNs carrying the stable isotope-labeled lesions, MS/MS analyses of the cisplatin-modified ODNs, and the characterization of the enzymatic digestion products of these ODNs set the stage for the future LC-MS/MS quantification of the 1,2-GpG, 1,2-ApG, and 1,3-GpXpG lesions in cellular DNA. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Nuclease Digestion and Mass Spectrometric Characterization of Oligodeoxyribonucleotides Containing 1,2-GpG, 1,2-ApG, and 1,3-GpXpG Cisplatin Intrastrand Cross-links

PubMed Central

Williams, Renee T.; Nalbandian, Jenifer; Tu, Audrey; Wang, Yinsheng

2013-01-01

Background The primary mode of action for cis-diamminedichloroplatinum (II), referred to as cisplatin, towards the treatment of solid malignancies is through formation of cross-links with DNA at purine sites, especially guanines. Methods We prepared oligodeoxyribonucleotides (ODNs) containing a 1,2-GpG, 1,2-ApG, or 1,3-GpXpG cisplatin intrastrand cross-link and the corresponding ODNs modified with 15N2-labeled cisplatin, and characterized these ODNs with electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI-MS) and tandem MS (MS/MS). We also employed LC-MS/MS to characterize the digestion products of these ODNs after treatment with a cocktail of 4 enzymes (nuclease P1, phosphodiesterases I and II, and alkaline phosphatase). Results 1,2-GpG was released from the ODNs as a dinucleoside monophosphate or a dinucleotide. Analyses of the digestion products of ODNs containing a 1,2-GpG cross-link on the 5′ or 3′ terminus revealed that the dinucleotide carries a terminal 5′ phosphate. On the other hand, digestion of the 1,3-GpXpG intrastrand cross-link yielded 3 dinucleoside products with 0, 1, or 2 phosphate groups. Results The availability of the ODNs carrying the stable isotope-labeled lesions, MS/MS analyses of the cisplatin-modified ODNs, and the characterization of the enzymatic digestion products of these ODNs set the stage for the future LC-MS/MS quantification of the 1,2-GpG, 1,2-ApG, and 1,3-GpXpG lesions in cellular DNA. PMID:23266768

EUS Needle Identification Comparison and Evaluation study (with videos).

PubMed

Tang, Shou-Jiang; Vilmann, Andreas S; Saftoiu, Adrian; Wang, Wanmei; Streba, Costin Teodor; Fink, Peter P; Griswold, Michael; Wu, Ruonan; Dietrich, Christoph F; Jenssen, Christian; Hocke, Michael; Kantowski, Marcus; Pohl, Jürgen; Fockens, Paul; Annema, Jouke T; van der Heijden, Erik H F M; Havre, Roald Flesland; Pham, Khanh Do-Cong; Kunda, Rastislav; Deprez, Pierre H; Mariana, Jinga; Vazquez-Sequeiros, Enrique; Larghi, Alberto; Buscarini, Elisabetta; Fusaroli, Pietro; Lahav, Maor; Puri, Rajesh; Garg, Pramod Kumar; Sharma, Malay; Maluf-Filho, Fauze; Sahai, Anand; Brugge, William R; Lee, Linda S; Aslanian, Harry R; Wang, Andrew Y; Shami, Vanessa M; Markowitz, Arnold; Siddiqui, Ali A; Mishra, Girish; Scheiman, James M; Isenberg, Gerard; Siddiqui, Uzma D; Shah, Raj J; Buxbaum, James; Watson, Rabindra R; Willingham, Field F; Bhutani, Manoop S; Levy, Michael J; Harris, Cynthia; Wallace, Michael B; Nolsøe, Christian Pállson; Lorentzen, Torben; Bang, Niels; Sørensen, Sten Mellerup; Gilja, Odd Helge; D'Onofrio, Mirko; Piscaglia, Fabio; Gritzmann, Norbert; Radzina, Maija; Sparchez, Zeno Adrian; Sidhu, Paul S; Freeman, Simon; McCowan, Timothy C; de Araujo, Cyrillo Rodrigues; Patel, Akash; Ali, Mohammad Adel; Campbell, Garth; Chen, Edward; Vilmann, Peter

2016-09-01

EUS-guided FNA or biopsy sampling is widely practiced. Optimal sonographic visualization of the needle is critical for image-guided interventions. Of the several commercially available needles, bench-top testing and direct comparison of these needles have not been done to reveal their inherent echogenicity. The aims are to provide bench-top data that can be used to guide clinical applications and to promote future device research and development. Descriptive bench-top testing and comparison of 8 commonly used EUS-FNA needles (all size 22 gauge): SonoTip Pro Control (Medi-Globe); Expect Slimline (Boston Scientific); EchoTip, EchoTip Ultra, EchoTip ProCore High Definition (Cook Medical); ClearView (Conmed); EZ Shot 2 (Olympus); and BNX (Beacon Endoscopic), and 2 new prototype needles, SonoCoat (Medi-Globe), coated by echogenic polymers made by Encapson. Blinded evaluation of standardized and unedited videos by 43 EUS endoscopists and 17 radiologists specialized in GI US examination who were unfamiliar with EUS needle devices. There was no significant difference in the ratings and rankings of these needles between endosonographers and radiologists. Overall, 1 prototype needle was rated as the best, ranking 10% to 40% higher than all other needles (P < .01). Among the commercially available needles, the EchoTip Ultra needle and the ClearView needle were top choices. The EZ Shot 2 needle was ranked statistically lower than other needles (30%-75% worse, P < .001). All FNA needles have their inherent and different echogenicities, and these differences are similarly recognized by EUS endoscopists and radiologists. Needles with polymeric coating from the entire shaft to the needle tip may offer better echogenicity. Copyright © 2016 American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy. All rights reserved.

Polyacrylic resins regulate transcriptional control of interleukin-6, gp80, and gp130 genes in human gingival fibroblasts.

PubMed

Borelli, Bruna; Zarone, Fernando; Rivieccio, Virginia; Riccitiello, Francesco; Simeone, Michele; Sorrentino, Roberto; Rengo, Sandro; Spagnuolo, Gianrico; Procino, Alfredo

2017-03-31

Studies have failed to identify the molecular mechanisms that regulate the genotoxic and cytotoxic effects of methacrylate resins, which are important in the biocompatibility of dental materials. Interleukin (IL)-6 has a crucial role in the control of acute-phase protein response during inflammation. In humans, the synthesis and release of two major acute-phase proteins, C-reactive protein and serum amyloid A, are regulated by IL-6. This study focused on IL-6 and activation of its receptors gp80 and gp130 in human gingival fibroblasts in order to assess the effects of the commercial acid resins Jet Kit, Unifast, and Duralay on control of inflammation.

A Bipartite Signal Regulates the Faithful Delivery of Apical Domain Marker Podocalyxin/Gp135

PubMed Central

Yu, Chun-Ying; Chen, Jen-Yau; Lin, Yu-Yu; Shen, Kuo-Fang; Lin, Wei-Ling; Chien, Chung-Liang; ter Beest, Martin B.A.

2007-01-01

Podocalyxin/Gp135 was recently demonstrated to participate in the formation of a preapical complex to set up initial polarity in MDCK cells, a function presumably depending on the apical targeting of Gp135. We show that correct apical sorting of Gp135 depends on a bipartite signal composed of an extracellular O-glycosylation–rich region and the intracellular PDZ domain–binding motif. The function of this PDZ-binding motif could be substituted with a fusion construct of Gp135 with Ezrin-binding phosphoprotein 50 (EBP50). In accordance with this observation, EBP50 binds to newly synthesized Gp135 at the Golgi apparatus and facilitates oligomerization and sorting of Gp135 into a clustering complex. A defective connection between Gp135 and EBP50 or EBP50 knockdown results in a delayed exit from the detergent-resistant microdomain, failure of oligomerization, and basolateral missorting of Gp135. Furthermore, the basolaterally missorted EBP50-binding defective mutant of Gp135 was rapidly retrieved via a PKC-dependent mechanism. According to these findings, we propose a model by which a highly negative charged transmembrane protein could be packed into an apical sorting platform with the aid of its cytoplasmic partner EBP50. PMID:17332505

Intracellular Mannose Binding Lectin Mediates Subcellular Trafficking of HIV-1 gp120 in Neurons

PubMed Central

Teodorof, C; Divakar, S; Soontornniyomkij, B; Achim, CL; Kaul, M; Singh, KK

2014-01-01

Human immunodeficiency virus -1 (HIV-1) enters the brain early during infection and leads to severe neuronal damage and central nervous system impairment. HIV-1 envelope glycoprotein 120 (gp120), a neurotoxin, undergoes intracellular trafficking and transport across neurons; however mechanisms of gp120 trafficking in neurons are unclear. Our results show that mannose binding lectin (MBL) that binds to the N-linked mannose residues on gp120, participates in intravesicular packaging of gp120 in neuronal subcellular organelles and also in subcellular trafficking of these vesicles in neuronal cells. Perinuclear MBL:gp120 vesicular complexes were observed and MBL facilitated the subcellular trafficking of gp120 via the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and Golgi vesicles. The functional carbohydrate recognition domain of MBL was required for perinuclear organization, distribution and subcellular trafficking of MBL:gp120 vesicular complexes. Nocodazole, an agent that depolymerizes the microtubule network, abolished the trafficking of MBL:gp120 vesicles, suggesting that these vesicular complexes were transported along the microtubule network. Live cell imaging confirmed the association of the MBL:gp120 complexes with dynamic subcellular vesicles that underwent trafficking in neuronal soma and along the neurites. Thus, our findings suggest that intracellular MBL mediates subcellular trafficking and transport of viral glycoproteins in a microtubule-dependent mechanism in the neurons. PMID:24825317

HIV DNA-Adenovirus Multiclade Envelope Vaccine Induces gp41 Antibody Immunodominance in Rhesus Macaques

PubMed Central

Williams, Wilton B.; Saunders, Kevin O.; Seaton, Kelly E.; Wiehe, Kevin J.; Vandergrift, Nathan; Von Holle, Tarra A.; Trama, Ashley M.; Parks, Robert J.; Luo, Kan; Gurley, Thaddeus C.; Kepler, Thomas B.; Marshall, Dawn J.; Montefiori, David C.; Sutherland, Laura L.; Alam, Munir S.; Whitesides, John F.; Bowman, Cindy M.; Permar, Sallie R.; Graham, Barney S.; Mascola, John R.; Seed, Patrick C.; Van Rompay, Koen K. A.; Tomaras, Georgia D.; Moody, M. Anthony

2017-01-01

ABSTRACT Dominant antibody responses in vaccinees who received the HIV-1 multiclade (A, B, and C) envelope (Env) DNA/recombinant adenovirus virus type 5 (rAd5) vaccine studied in HIV-1 Vaccine Trials Network (HVTN) efficacy trial 505 (HVTN 505) targeted Env gp41 and cross-reacted with microbial antigens. In this study, we asked if the DNA/rAd5 vaccine induced a similar antibody response in rhesus macaques (RMs), which are commonly used as an animal model for human HIV-1 infections and for testing candidate HIV-1 vaccines. We also asked if gp41 immunodominance could be avoided by immunization of neonatal RMs during the early stages of microbial colonization. We found that the DNA/rAd5 vaccine elicited a higher frequency of gp41-reactive memory B cells than gp120-memory B cells in adult and neonatal RMs. Analysis of the vaccine-induced Env-reactive B cell repertoire revealed that the majority of HIV-1 Env-reactive antibodies in both adult and neonatal RMs were targeted to gp41. Interestingly, a subset of gp41-reactive antibodies isolated from RMs cross-reacted with host antigens, including autologous intestinal microbiota. Thus, gp41-containing DNA/rAd5 vaccine induced dominant gp41-microbiota cross-reactive antibodies derived from blood memory B cells in RMs as observed in the HVTN 505 vaccine efficacy trial. These data demonstrated that RMs can be used to investigate gp41 immunodominance in candidate HIV-1 vaccines. Moreover, colonization of neonatal RMs occurred within the first week of life, and immunization of neonatal RMs during this time also induced a dominant gp41-reactive antibody response. IMPORTANCE Our results are critical to current work in the HIV-1 vaccine field evaluating the phenomenon of gp41 immunodominance induced by HIV-1 Env gp140 in RMs and humans. Our data demonstrate that RMs are an appropriate animal model to study this phenomenon and to determine the immunogenicity in new HIV-1 Env trimer vaccine designs. The demonstration of gp41

GP and pharmacist inter-professional learning - a grounded theory study.

PubMed

Cunningham, David E; Ferguson, Julie; Wakeling, Judy; Zlotos, Leon; Power, Ailsa

2016-05-01

Practice Based Small Group Learning (PBSGL) is an established learning resource for primary care clinicians in Scotland and is used by one-third of general practitioners (GPs). Scottish Government and UK professional bodies have called for GPs and pharmacists to work more closely together to improve care. To gain GPs' and pharmacists' perceptions and experiences of learning together in an inter-professional PBSGL pilot. Qualitative research methods involving established GP PBSGL groups in NHS Scotland recruiting one or two pharmacists to join them. A grounded theory method was used. GPs were interviewed in focus groups by a fellow GP, and pharmacists were interviewed individually by two researchers, neither being a GP or a pharmacist. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed and analysed using grounded theory methods. Data saturation was achieved and confirmed. Three themes were identified: GPs' and pharmacists' perceptions and experiences of inter-professional learning; Inter-professional relationships and team-working; Group identity and purpose of existing GP groups. Pharmacists were welcomed into GP groups and both professions valued inter-professional PBSGL learning. Participants learned from each other and both professions gained a wider perspective of the NHS and of each others' roles in the organisation. Inter-professional relationships, communication and team-working were strengthened and professionals regarded each other as peers and friends.

GP96 is a GARP chaperone and controls regulatory T cell functions.

PubMed

Zhang, Yongliang; Wu, Bill X; Metelli, Alessandra; Thaxton, Jessica E; Hong, Feng; Rachidi, Saleh; Ansa-Addo, Ephraim; Sun, Shaoli; Vasu, Chenthamarakshan; Yang, Yi; Liu, Bei; Li, Zihai

2015-02-01

Molecular chaperones control a multitude of cellular functions via folding chaperone-specific client proteins. CD4+FOXP3+ Tregs play key roles in maintaining peripheral tolerance, which is subject to regulation by multiple molecular switches, including mTOR and hypoxia-inducible factor. It is not clear whether GP96 (also known as GRP94), which is a master TLR and integrin chaperone, controls Treg function. Using murine genetic models, we demonstrated that GP96 is required for Treg maintenance and function, as loss of GP96 resulted in instability of the Treg lineage and impairment of suppressive functions in vivo. In the absence of GP96, Tregs were unable to maintain FOXP3 expression levels, resulting in systemic accumulation of pathogenic IFN-γ-producing and IL-17-producing T cells. We determined that GP96 serves as an essential chaperone for the cell-surface protein glycoprotein A repetitions predominant (GARP), which is a docking receptor for latent membrane-associated TGF-β (mLTGF-β). The loss of both GARP and integrins on GP96-deficient Tregs prevented expression of mLTGF-β and resulted in inefficient production of active TGF-β. Our work demonstrates that GP96 regulates multiple facets of Treg biology, thereby placing Treg stability and immunosuppressive functions strategically under the control of a major stress chaperone.

Cloning and sequence analysis of the Antheraea pernyi nucleopolyhedrovirus gp64 gene.

PubMed

Wang, Wenbing; Zhu, Shanying; Wang, Liqun; Yu, Feng; Shen, Weide

2005-12-01

Frequent outbreaks of the purulence disease of Chinese oak silkworm are reported in Middle and Northeast China. The disease is produced by the pathogen Antheraea pernyi nucleopolyhedrovirus (AnpeNPV). To obtain molecular information of the virus, the polyhedra of AnpeNPV were purified and characterized. The genomic DNA of AnpeNPV was extracted and digested with HindIII. The genome size of AnpeNPV is estimated at 128 kb. Based on the analysis of DNA fragments digested with HindIII, 23 fragments were bigger than 564 bp. A genomic library was generated using HindIII and the positive clones were sequenced and analysed. The gp64 gene, encoding the baculovirus envelope protein GP64, was found in an insert. The nucleotide sequence analysis indicated that the AnpeNPV gp64 gene consists of a 1,530 nucleotide open reading frame (ORF), encoding a protein of 509 amino acids. Of the eight gp64 homologues, the AnpeNPV gp64 ORF shared the most sequence similarity with the gp64 gene of Anticarsia gemmatalis NPV, but not Bombyx mori NPV. The upstream region of the AnpeNPV gp64 ORF encoded the conserved transcriptional elements for early and late stage of the viral infection cycle. These results indicated that AnpeNPV belongs to group I NPV and was far removed in molecular phylogeny from the BmNPV.

Enhancing field GP engagement in hospital-based studies. Rationale, design, main results and participation in the Diagest 3-GP motivation study.

PubMed

Berkhout, Christophe; Vandaele-Bétancourt, Marie; Robert, Stéphane; Lespinasse, Solène; Mitha, Gamil; Bradier, Quentin; Vambergue, Anne; Fontaine, Pierre

2012-06-21

Diagest 3 was a study aimed at lowering the risk of developing type 2 diabetes within 3 years after childbirth. Women with gestational diabetes were enrolled in the study. After childbirth, the subjects showed little interest in the structured education programme and did not attend workshops. Their general practitioners (GPs) were approached to help motivate the subjects to participate in Diagest 3, but the GPs were reluctant. The present study aimed to understand field GPs' attitudes towards hospital-based studies, and to develop strategies to enhance their involvement and reduce subject drop-out rates. We used a three-step process: step one used a phenomenological approach exploring the beliefs, attitudes, motivations and environmental factors contributing to the GPs' level of interest in the study. Data were collected in face-to-face interviews and coded by hand and with hermeneutic software to develop distinct GP profiles. Step two was a cross-sectional survey by questionnaire to determine the distribution of the profiles in the GP study population and whether completion of an attached case report form (CRF) was associated with a particular GP profile. In step three, we assessed the impact of the motivation study on participation rates in the main study. Fifteen interviews were conducted to achieve data saturation. Theorisation led to the definition of 4 distinct GP profiles. The response rate to the questionnaire was 73%, but dropped to 52% when a CRF was attached. The link between GP profiles and the rate of CRF completion remains to be verified. The GPs provided data on the CRF that was of comparable quality to those collected in the main trial. Our analysis showed that the motivation study increased overall participation in the main study by 23%, accounting for 16% (24/152) of all final visits for 536 patients who were initially enrolled in the Diagest 3 study. When a hospital-led study explores issues in primary care, its design must anticipate GP

Are there practical opportunities for developing leadership skills during GP training and beyond? A survey of GP trainees and trainers in South East Scotland.

PubMed

Curry, Nicola; Denney, MeiLing

2016-01-01

There is currently a lack of formal training in leadership skills, particularly during GP training. This study aimed to explore the current training and practical opportunities which exist, specifically exploring the views of GP trainees and trainers. An electronic questionnaire was sent to 266 GP trainees and trainers in south-east Scotland. Questions focused on respondents' experience of leadership-specific training and opportunities to engage with leadership roles. There were a total of 76 respondents (28.6% response rate). Response rate was 19.0% in trainees and 34.6% in trainers. A majority of respondents (80.0%) were established GPs. Of those who had received training in leadership, most (72.1%) underwent this after qualifying as a GP. Respondents identified a range of leadership roles within and outside the practice covering clinical and non-clinical areas. Most were interested in future leadership roles (46.7% moderately interested; 28% very interested). More time, training opportunities and the presence of GP role models were motivating factors in terms of participants' readiness to take on future leadership roles. Signposting trainees, trainers and general practitioners to leadership opportunities and training would be relatively easy but addressing a lack of motivating factors at a local level is essential. The effectiveness of such training and opportunities for experiential learning in leadership roles requires further research.

Comparison of fine-needle aspiration and core needle biopsy under ultrasonographic guidance for detecting malignancy and for the tissue-specific diagnosis of salivary gland tumors.

PubMed

Eom, H-J; Lee, J H; Ko, M-S; Choi, Y J; Yoon, R G; Cho, K J; Nam, S Y; Baek, J H

2015-06-01

Diagnostic test accuracy studies for ultrasonography-guided fine-needle aspiration and ultrasonography-guided core needle biopsy have shown inconclusive results due to their heterogenous study designs. Our aim was to compare the diagnostic accuracy of ultrasonography-guided fine-needle aspiration versus ultrasonography-guided core needle biopsy for detecting malignant tumors of the salivary gland and for the tissue-specific diagnosis of salivary gland tumors in a single tertiary hospital. This retrospective study was approved by our institutional review board and informed consent was waived. Four hundred twelve patients who underwent ultrasonography-guided fine-needle aspiration (n = 155) or ultrasonography-guided core needle biopsy (n = 257) with subsequent surgical confirmation or clinical follow-up were enrolled. We compared the diagnostic accuracy of ultrasonography-guided fine-needle aspiration and ultrasonography-guided core needle biopsy regarding malignant salivary gland tumors and the correct tissue-specific diagnosis of benign and malignant tumors. We also tested the difference between these procedures according to the operator's experience and lesion characteristics. The inconclusive rates of ultrasonography-guided fine-needle aspiration and ultrasonography-guided core needle biopsy were 19% and 4%, respectively (P < .001). The overall accuracy of ultrasonography-guided core needle biopsy for diagnosing malignant tumors was significantly higher than that of ultrasonography-guided fine-needle aspiration (P = .024). The correct tissue-specific diagnosis rates of ultrasonography-guided fine-needle aspiration and ultrasonography-guided core needle biopsy were 95% versus 97% for benign tumors (P = .648) and 67% versus 80% for malignant tumors (P = .310). Trainees showed significantly lower accuracy with ultrasonography-guided fine-needle aspiration than with ultrasonography-guided core needle biopsy for diagnosing malignant tumors (P = .021). There was no

Pine needle abortion biomarker detected in bovine fetal fluids

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Pine needle abortion is a naturally occurring condition in free-range cattle caused by the consumption of pine needles from select species of cypress, juniper, pine, and spruce trees. Confirmatory diagnosis of pine needle abortion has previously relied on a combined case history of pine needle cons...

Coaxial needle insertion assistant with enhanced force feedback.

PubMed

De Lorenzo, Danilo; Koseki, Yoshihiko; De Momi, Elena; Chinzei, Kiyoyuki; Okamura, Allison M

2013-02-01

Many medical procedures involving needle insertion into soft tissues, such as anesthesia, biopsy, brachytherapy, and placement of electrodes, are performed without image guidance. In such procedures, haptic detection of changing tissue properties at different depths during needle insertion is important for needle localization and detection of subsurface structures. However, changes in tissue mechanical properties deep inside the tissue are difficult for human operators to sense, because the relatively large friction force between the needle shaft and the surrounding tissue masks the smaller tip forces. A novel robotic coaxial needle insertion assistant, which enhances operator force perception, is presented. This one-degree-of-freedom cable-driven robot provides to the operator a scaled version of the force applied by the needle tip to the tissue, using a novel design and sensors that separate the needle tip force from the shaft friction force. The ability of human operators to use the robot to detect membranes embedded in artificial soft tissue was tested under the conditions of 1) tip force and shaft force feedback, and 2) tip force only feedback. The ratio of successful to unsuccessful membrane detections was significantly higher (up to 50%) when only the needle tip force was provided to the user.

Peptides designed to spatially depict the Epstein-Barr virus major virion glycoprotein gp350 neutralization epitope elicit antibodies that block virus-neutralizing antibody 72A1 interaction with the native gp350 molecule.

PubMed

Tanner, Jerome E; Coinçon, Mathieu; Leblond, Valérie; Hu, Jing; Fang, Janey M; Sygusch, Jurgen; Alfieri, Caroline

2015-05-01

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is the etiologic agent of infectious mononucleosis and the root cause of B-cell lymphoproliferative disease in individuals with a weakened immune system, as well as a principal cofactor in nasopharyngeal carcinoma, various lymphomas, and other cancers. The EBV major virion surface glycoprotein gp350 is viewed as the best vaccine candidate to prevent infectious mononucleosis in healthy EBV-naive persons and EBV-related cancers in at-risk individuals. Previous epitope mapping of gp350 revealed only one dominant neutralizing epitope, which has been shown to be the target of the monoclonal antibody 72A1. Computer modeling of the 72A1 antibody interaction with the gp350 amino terminus was used to identify gp350 amino acids that could form strong ionic, electrostatic, or hydrogen bonds with the 72A1 antibody. Peptide DDRTTLQLAQNPVYIPETYPYIKWDN (designated peptide 2) and peptide GSAKPGNGSYFASVKTEMLGNEID (designated peptide 3) were designed to spatially represent the gp350 amino acids predicted to interact with the 72A1 antibody paratope. Peptide 2 bound to the 72A1 antibody and blocked 72A1 antibody recognition of the native gp350 molecule. Peptide 2 and peptide 3 were recognized by human IgG and shown to elicit murine antibodies that could target gp350 and block its recognition by the 72A1 antibody. This work provides a structural mapping of the interaction between the EBV-neutralizing antibody 72A1 and the major virion surface protein gp350. gp350 mimetic peptides that spatially depict the EBV-neutralizing epitope would be useful as a vaccine to focus the immune system exclusively to this important virus epitope. The production of virus-neutralizing antibodies targeting the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) major surface glycoprotein gp350 is important for the prevention of infectious mononucleosis and EBV-related cancers. The data presented here provide the first in silico map of the gp350 interaction with a virus-blocking monoclonal antibody

Engineering assessment of inactive uranium mill tailings: Maybell Site, Maybell, Colorado. Summary

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

None

1981-09-01

Ford, Bacon and Davis Utah Inc. has reevaluated the Maybell site in order to revise the October 1977 engineering assessment of the problems resulting from the existence of radioactive uranium mill tailings at Maybell, Colorado. This engineering assessment has included the preparation of topographic maps, the performance of core drillings and radiometric measurements sufficient to determine areas and volumes of tailings and radiation exposures of individuals and nearby populations, the investigations of site hydrology and meteorology, and the evaluation and costing of alternative corrective actions. Radon gas released from the 2.6 million dry tons of tailings at the Maybell sitemore » constitutes the most significant environmental impact, although windblown tailings and external gamma radiation also are factors. The two alternative actions presented in this engineering assessment range from millsite decontamination with the addition of 3 m of stabilization cover material (Option I), to disposal of the tailings in a nearby open pit mine and decontamination of the tailings site (Option II). Cost estimates for the two options are about $11,700,000 for stabilization in-place and about $22,700,000 for disposal within a distance of 2 mi. Three principal alternatives for the reprocessing of the Maybell tailings were examined: (a) heap leaching; (b) treatment at an existing mill; and (c) reprocessing at a new conventional mill constructed for tailings reprocessing. The cost of the uranium recovered would be about $125 and $165/lb of U/sub 3/O/sub 8/ by heap leach and conventional plant processes, respectively. The spot market price for uranium was $25/lb early in 1981. Therefore, reprocessing the tailings for uranium recovery is not economically attractive at present.« less

Hyper- and viscoelastic modeling of needle and brain tissue interaction.

PubMed

Lehocky, Craig A; Yixing Shi; Riviere, Cameron N

2014-01-01

Deep needle insertion into brain is important for both diagnostic and therapeutic clinical interventions. We have developed an automated system for robotically steering flexible needles within the brain to improve targeting accuracy. In this work, we have developed a finite element needle-tissue interaction model that allows for the investigation of safe parameters for needle steering. The tissue model implemented contains both hyperelastic and viscoelastic properties to simulate the instantaneous and time-dependent responses of brain tissue. Several needle models were developed with varying parameters to study the effects of the parameters on tissue stress, strain and strain rate during needle insertion and rotation. The parameters varied include needle radius, bevel angle, bevel tip fillet radius, insertion speed, and rotation speed. The results will guide the design of safe needle tips and control systems for intracerebral needle steering.

Intracellular mannose binding lectin mediates subcellular trafficking of HIV-1 gp120 in neurons.

PubMed

Teodorof, C; Divakar, S; Soontornniyomkij, B; Achim, C L; Kaul, M; Singh, K K

2014-09-01

Human immunodeficiency virus-1 (HIV-1) enters the brain early during infection and leads to severe neuronal damage and central nervous system impairment. HIV-1 envelope glycoprotein 120 (gp120), a neurotoxin, undergoes intracellular trafficking and transport across neurons; however mechanisms of gp120 trafficking in neurons are unclear. Our results show that mannose binding lectin (MBL) that binds to the N-linked mannose residues on gp120, participates in intravesicular packaging of gp120 in neuronal subcellular organelles and also in subcellular trafficking of these vesicles in neuronal cells. Perinuclear MBL:gp120 vesicular complexes were observed and MBL facilitated the subcellular trafficking of gp120 via the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and Golgi vesicles. The functional carbohydrate recognition domain of MBL was required for perinuclear organization, distribution and subcellular trafficking of MBL:gp120 vesicular complexes. Nocodazole, an agent that depolymerizes the microtubule network, abolished the trafficking of MBL:gp120 vesicles, suggesting that these vesicular complexes were transported along the microtubule network. Live cell imaging confirmed the association of the MBL:gp120 complexes with dynamic subcellular vesicles that underwent trafficking in neuronal soma and along the neurites. Thus, our findings suggest that intracellular MBL mediates subcellular trafficking and transport of viral glycoproteins in a microtubule-dependent mechanism in the neurons. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Nitrogen fertilizer factory effects on the amino acid and nitrogen content in the needles of Scots pine.

PubMed

Kupsinskiene, E

2001-12-04

The aim of the research was to evaluate the content of amino acids in the needles of Pinus sylvestris growing in the area affected by a nitrogen fertilizer factory and to compare them with other parameters of needles, trees, and sites. Three young-age stands of Scots pine were selected at a distance of 0.5 km, 5 km, and 17 km from the factory. Examination of the current-year needles in winter of the year 2000 revealed significant (p < 0.05) differences between the site at a 0.5-km distance from the factory and the site at a 17-km distance from the factory--with the site closest to the factory showing the highest concentrations of protein (119%), total arginine (166%), total other amino acids (depending on amino acid, the effect ranged between 119 and 149%), free arginine (771%), other free amino acids (glutamic acid, threonine, serine, lysine--depending on amino acid, the effect ranged between 162 and 234%), also the longest needles, widest diameter, largest surface area, and heaviest dry weight (respectively, 133, 110, 136, and 169%). The gradient of nitrogen concentration in the needles was assessed on the selected plots over the period of 1995-2000, with the highest concentration (depending on year, 119 to 153%) documented in the site located 0.5 km from the factory. Significant correlations were determined between the total amino acid contents (r = 0.448 -0.939, p < 0.05), some free amino acid (arginine, aspartic acid, glutamic acid, lysine, threonine, and serine) contents (r = 0.418 - 0.975, p < 0.05), and air pollutant concentration at the sites, the distance between the sites and the factory, and characteristics of the needles. No correlation was found between free or total arginine content and defoliation or retention of the needles. In conclusion, it was revealed that elevated mean monthly concentration of ammonia (26 microg m(-3)) near the nitrogen fertilizer factory caused changes in nitrogen metabolism, especially increasing (nearly eight times

Transillumination for needle localization in the larynx.

PubMed

Hoffman, Henry T; Dailey, Seth H; Bock, Jonathan M; Thibeault, Susan L; McCulloch, Timothy M

2015-10-01

Transillumination through laryngeal soft tissue may be used to direct percutaneous transcricothyroid membrane subepithelial needle placement in the larynx. Cadaver simulation (canine and human). Lighted devices, including sialendoscopes and fiberoptic cables, were tested as transilluminating obturators in trocars and needles through multiple studies to identify appropriate illumination, monitoring, and equipment for successful localization of needle/trocar tips placed within laryngeal tissue. Lighted 250-micron fiberoptic cables within 23-gauge needles were successfully placed percutaneously through the cricothyroid membrane and maneuvered submucosally into Reinke's space, the midlateral vocal fold, and through the thyroarytenoid gap with monitoring via flexible transnasal laryngoscopy. Technical adaptations in the course of study permitted successful simulation of clinical use in full cadaver study for accurate injection laryngoplasty, confirmed by laryngeal dissection following collagen injection. Small caliber fiberoptic cables are useful as transilluminating obturators to accurately direct needle position within laryngeal tissue. Clinical application of this new technique is anticipated to improve the accuracy of percutaneous needle localization in the larynx, as well as to assist in directed instrumentation of the larynx from an external approach. N/A. © 2015 The American Laryngological, Rhinological and Otological Society, Inc.

DIY guide-needle-assisted conjunctivodacryocystorhinostomy (CDCR).

PubMed

Paik, Ji-Sun; Kim, Su-Ah; Doh, Sang-Hee

2013-01-01

In this study, we introduce DIY guide-needle-assisted conjunctivodacryocystorhinostomy (CDCR), in which a guide needle helps in measuring the initial Jones tube length for insertion and reduces unnecessary handling for tube changes. Three CDCR procedures were conducted in which the length of the Jones tube was calculated using a 22-gauge DIY guide needle, and a prospective study of tube position change and migration, (a major cause of CDCR failure) was done. Wound healing was almost complete within 4 weeks postoperatively in the osteotomy site, but in cases of partial middle turbinectomy, a little more time was necessary. There was a slight change in Jones tube position in the nasal cavity compared with the expected position of original tube tip, but no tube migration from the caruncle fixation position had occurred by the final follow-up time. This guide-needle-assisted CDCR has multiple advantages, such as easy measurement of the proper initial tube size, utilization of the initial needle path, and easy replacement of tubes. Finally, this approach to CDCR can be readily applied because it uses materials ordinarily found in hospitals to create the devices needed for the procedure, so there is no additional cost.

Differential role of gp130-dependent STAT and Ras signalling for haematopoiesis following bone-marrow transplantation.

PubMed

Kroy, Daniela C; Hebing, Lisa; Sander, Leif E; Gassler, Nikolaus; Erschfeld, Stephanie; Sackett, Sara; Galm, Oliver; Trautwein, Christian; Streetz, Konrad L

2012-01-01

Bone marrow transplantation (BMT) is a complex process regulated by different cytokines and growth factors. The pleiotropic cytokine IL-6 (Interleukin-6) and related cytokines of the same family acting on the common signal transducer gp130 are known to play a key role in bone marrow (BM) engraftment. In contrast, the exact signalling events that control IL-6/gp130-driven haematopoietic stem cell development during BMT remain unresolved. Conditional gp130 knockout and knockin mice were used to delete gp130 expression (gp130(ΔMx)), or to selectively disrupt gp130-dependent Ras (gp130(ΔMxRas)) or STAT signalling (gp130(ΔMxSTAT)) in BM cells. BM derived from the respective strains was transplanted into irradiated wildtype hosts and repopulation of various haematopoietic lineages was monitored by flow cytometry. BM derived from gp130 deficient donor mice (gp130(ΔMx)) displayed a delayed engraftment, as evidenced by reduced total white blood cells (WBC), marked thrombocytopenia and anaemia in the early phase after BMT. Lineage analysis unravelled a restricted development of CD4(+) and CD8(+) T-cells, CD19(+) B-cells and CD11b(+) myeloid cells after transplantation of gp130-deficient BM grafts. To further delineate the two major gp130-induced signalling cascades, Ras-MAPK and STAT1/3-signalling respectively, we used gp130(ΔMxRas) and gp130(ΔMxSTAT) donor BM. BMT of gp130(ΔMxSTAT) cells significantly impaired engraftment of CD4(+), CD8(+), CD19(+) and CD11b(+) cells, whereas gp130(ΔMxRas) BM displayed a selective impairment in early thrombopoiesis. Importantly, gp130-STAT1/3 signalling deficiency in BM grafts severely impaired survival of transplanted mice, thus demonstrating a pivotal role for this pathway in BM graft survival and function. Our data unravel a vital function of IL-6/gp130-STAT1/3 signals for BM engraftment and haematopoiesis, as well as for host survival after transplantation. STAT1/3 and ras-dependent pathways thereby exert distinct functions on

Sex of the GP--20 years on.

PubMed

Harrison, Christopher M; Britt, Helena C; Charles, Janice

2011-08-15

Previous research with the Australian Morbidity and Treatment Survey (1990-1991) showed significant differences in general practitioner characteristics and patient mix of male and female GPs. Even after adjusting for these, it was seen that male and female GPs managed different types of medical conditions. The proportion of female GPs increased from 19.6% in 1990-1991 to 37.1% in 2009-2010. This study investigates whether differences remain two decades later. Analysis of 2009-2010 Bettering the Evaluation and Care of Health (BEACH) data examining GP characteristics, patient encounter characteristics, patient reasons for encounter (RFE), problem types managed and management methods used, by GP sex. Whether GP sex was an independent predictor of problem types being managed, or management methods used, was tested using multiple logistic regressions and Poisson regression. 988 GPs recorded 98 800 GP-patient encounters. Adjusted differences in clinical activity of male and female GPs. After adjustment, compared with male GPs, females recorded more RFEs about general and unspecified issues and endocrine, female genital, pregnancy and family planning problems; and fewer concerning the musculoskeletal, respiratory, skin and male genital systems. Female GPs managed more general and unspecified, digestive, circulatory, psychological, endocrine, female genital and social problems; recorded nearly 20% more clinical treatments and referrals; recorded nearly 10% more imaging and pathology tests; and 4.3% fewer medications. After two decades, even with increased numbers of female GPs, the differences in problems managed by male and female GPs remain, and will probably continue. Female GPs use more resources per encounter, but may not use more resources in terms of annual patient care.

Molecular cloning and sequence analysis of the Anticarsia gemmatalis multicapsid nuclear polyhedrosis virus GP64 glycoprotein.

PubMed

Pilloff, Marcela Gabriela; Bilen, Marcos Fabián; Belaich, Mariano Nicolás; Lozano, Mario Enrique; Ghiringhelli, Pablo Daniel

2003-01-01

The gp64 locus of Anticarsia gemmatalis multicapsid nucleopolyhedrovirus isolate Santa Fe (AgMNPV-SF) was characterised molecularly in our laboratory. To this end, we have located and cloned a AgMNPV-SF genomic DNA fragment containing the gp64 gene and sequenced the complete gp64 locus. Nucleotide sequence analysis indicated that the AgMNPV gp64 gene consists of a 1500 nucleotide open reading frame (ORF), encoding a protein of 499 amino acids. Of the seven gp64 homologues identified to date, the AgMNPV gp64 ORF shared most sequence similarity with the gp64 gene of Orgyia pseudotsugata MNPV. The GP64 from AgMNPV is the smallest baculoviral envelope glycoprotein found to date, differing in 10 or more residues from the other group I nucleopolyhedroviruses. The biological activity of AgMNPV GP64 protein was assessed by cell fusion assays in UFL-AG-286 cells using the obtained recombinant plasmids. In the upstream and downstream regions, relative to the gp64 ORF, we found different conserved transcriptional and post-transcriptional regulatory elements, respectively.

Structural and Functional Studies on the Marburg Virus GP2 Fusion Loop.

PubMed

Liu, Nina; Tao, Yisong; Brenowitz, Michael D; Girvin, Mark E; Lai, Jonathan R

2015-10-01

Marburg virus (MARV) and the ebolaviruses belong to the family Filoviridae (the members of which are filoviruses) that cause severe hemorrhagic fever. Infection requires fusion of the host and viral membranes, a process that occurs in the host cell endosomal compartment and is facilitated by the envelope glycoprotein fusion subunit, GP2. The N-terminal fusion loop (FL) of GP2 is a hydrophobic disulfide-bonded loop that is postulated to insert and disrupt the host endosomal membrane during fusion. Here, we describe the first structural and functional studies of a protein corresponding to the MARV GP2 FL. We found that this protein undergoes a pH-dependent conformational change, as monitored by circular dichroism and nuclear magnetic resonance. Furthermore, we report that, under low pH conditions, the MARV GP2 FL can induce content leakage from liposomes. The general aspects of this pH-dependent structure and lipid-perturbing behavior are consistent with previous reports on Ebola virus GP2 FL. However, nuclear magnetic resonance studies in lipid bicelles and mutational analysis indicate differences in structure exist between MARV and Ebola virus GP2 FL. These results provide new insight into the mechanism of MARV GP2-mediated cell entry. © The Author 2015. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Infectious Diseases Society of America. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Do safety engineered devices reduce needle-stick injuries?

PubMed

Schuurmans, J; Lutgens, S P; Groen, L; Schneeberger, P M

2018-05-05

Needle stick injuries (NSIs) are one of the most common health hazards facing health care workers (HCWs) across the globe. Needles with safety engineered devices (SEDs) have been developed to minimize the risk of exposure to blood-borne infections such as Hepatitis B virus (HBV), Hepatitis C virus (HCV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) associated with NSIs. To assess the effect of the introduction of SEDs in preventing NSIs among HCWs in the Jeroen Bosch Hospital (JBH), the Netherlands. We compared the incidence of reported NSIs before and after the introduction of SEDs. All HCWs who reported a NSI with a SED were interviewed in order to understand the underlying causes of the NSIs. Despite the introduction of SEDs the incidence of NSIs increased from 1.9/100 HCWs before the introduction of SEDs to 2.2/100 HCWs after the introduction of SEDs. The registration of reported SED related NSIs showed a significant decrease in the number of NSIs related to injection needles and blood sugar needles, while an unexpected significant increase in NSIs with nadroparin calcium needles and infusion needles was found. The most common causes reported for NSIs were unsafe disposal of the needles and problems with the safety feature. The application of SEDs has not led to a reduction of NSIs. The majority of NSIs caused by a needle with a SED can be prevented by stimulation of safe needle disposal, proper use of SEDs and provision of feedback to manufacturers to keep improving product design. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Social context of needle selling in Baltimore, Maryland.

PubMed

Latkin, Carl A; Davey, Melissa A; Hua, Wei

2006-01-01

Although much of the debate surrounding the distribution of sterile syringes to injection drug users (IDUs) has focused on needle exchange programs (NEPs), IDUs acquire their syringes from three major sources: NEPs, pharmacies, and secondary exchangers or needle sellers. The purpose of the present study is to examine types and frequencies of social interactions among drug injectors who sell needles, most of which come from NEPs, compared with individuals who do not sell needles. Specifically, we compared engagement in drug-related behaviors, roles in the drug economy, and social network membership. Data were collected as part of the SHIELD study, an HIV prevention intervention targeted at drug users and their social networks (n=910) from February 2001 through September 2003 in Baltimore, Maryland (USA). In this sample, 56 participants reported selling needles. Needle sellers had higher levels of engagement in drug-related social interactions, including using drugs with others, giving or receiving drugs from others, and buying drugs with other users. Participants who sold needles had a significantly higher number of roles in the drug economy. Also, they had more social network members who were injectors, with whom they talked about risky drug behaviors, gave needles to, and shared cookers and bleach with. Compared with nonselling injectors, needle sellers engage in HIV risk-related behaviors, such as injecting daily and sharing injection equipment, more frequently. The study's findings may be useful to determine whether secondary exchangers should be targeted for HIV prevention activities both to reduce their own risk and to diffuse risk reduction information throughout the drug using community.

Needle Steering in 3-D Via Rapid Replanning

PubMed Central

Patil, Sachin; Burgner, Jessica; Webster, Robert J.; Alterovitz, Ron

2014-01-01

Steerable needles have the potential to improve the effectiveness of needle-based clinical procedures such as biopsy and drug delivery by improving targeting accuracy and reaching previously inaccessible targets that are behind sensitive or impenetrable anatomical regions. We present a new needle steering system capable of automatically reaching targets in 3-D environments while avoiding obstacles and compensating for real-world uncertainties. Given a specification of anatomical obstacles and a clinical target (e.g., from preoperative medical images), our system plans and controls needle motion in a closed-loop fashion under sensory feedback to optimize a clinical metric. We unify planning and control using a new fast algorithm that continuously replans the needle motion. Our rapid replanning approach is enabled by an efficient sampling-based rapidly exploring random tree (RRT) planner that achieves orders-of-magnitude reduction in computation time compared with prior 3-D approaches by incorporating variable curvature kinematics and a novel distance metric for planning. Our system uses an electromagnetic tracking system to sense the state of the needle tip during the procedure. We experimentally evaluate our needle steering system using tissue phantoms and animal tissue ex vivo. We demonstrate that our rapid replanning strategy successfully guides the needle around obstacles to desired 3-D targets with an average error of less than 3 mm. PMID:25435829

Effect of vibration frequency on biopsy needle insertion force.

PubMed

Tan, Lei; Qin, Xuemei; Zhang, Qinhe; Zhang, Hongcai; Dong, Hongjian; Guo, Tuodang; Liu, Guowei

2017-05-01

Needle insertion is critical in many clinical medicine procedures, such as biopsy, brachytherapy, and injection therapy. A platform with two degrees of freedom was set up to study the effect of vibration frequency on needle insertion force. The gel phantom deformation at the needle cutting edge and the Voigt model are utilized to develop a dynamic model to explain the relationship between the insertion force and needle-tip velocity. The accuracy of this model was verified by performing needle insertions into phantom gel. The effect of vibration on insertion force can be explained as the vibration increasing the needle-tip velocity and subsequently increasing the insertion force. In a series of needle insertion experiments with different vibration frequencies, the peak forces were selected for comparison to explore the effect of vibration frequency on needle insertion force. The experimental results indicate that the insertion force at 500Hz increases up to 17.9% compared with the force at 50Hz. Copyright © 2017 IPEM. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Biochemistry and Biophysics of HIV-1 gp41 – membrane interactions

PubMed Central

Cai, Lifeng; Gochin, Miriam; Liu, Keliang

2011-01-01

Human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1), the pathogen of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), causes ~2 millions death every year and still defies an effective vaccine. HIV-1 infects host cells through envelope protein – mediated virus-cell fusion. The transmembrane subunit of envelope protein, gp41, is the molecular machinery which facilitates fusion. Its ectodomain contains several distinguishing functional domains, fusion peptide (FP), N-terminal heptad repeat (NHR), C-terminal heptad repeat (CHR) and membrane proximal extracellular region (MPER). During the fusion process, FP inserts into the host cell membrane, and an extended gp41 prehairpin conformation bridges the viral and cell membranes through MPER and FP respectively. Subsequent conformational change of the unstable prehairpin results in a coiled-coil 6-helix bundle (6HB) structure formed between NHR and CHR. The energetics of 6HB formation drives membrane apposition and fusion. Drugs targeting gp41 functional domains to prevent 6HB formation inhibit HIV-1 infection. T20 (enfuvirtide, Fuzeon) was approved by the US FDA in 2003 as the first fusion inhibitor. It is a 36-residue peptide from the gp41 CHR, and it inhibits 6HB formation by targeting NHR and lipids. Development of new fusion inhibitors, especially small molecule drugs, is encouraged to overcome the shortcomings of T20 as a peptide drug. Hydrophobic characteristics and membrane association are critical for gp41 function and mechanism of action. Research in gp41-membrane interactions, using peptides corresponding to specific functional domains, or constructs including several interactive domains, are reviewed here to get a better understanding of gp41 mediated virus-cell fusion that can inform or guide the design of new HIV-1 fusion inhibitors. PMID:22044229

The number of injected same-day preschool vaccines relates to preadolescent needle fear and HPV uptake.

PubMed

Baxter, Amy L; Cohen, Lindsey L; Burton, Mark; Mohammed, Anaam; Lawson, M Louise

2017-07-24

Fear of needles develops at approximately five years of age, and decreases compliance with healthcare. We sought to examine the relationship of preschool vaccine history, parent and preadolescent needle fear, and subsequent compliance with optional vaccines. As part of a private practice randomized controlled trial, parents and 10-12year olds rated needle anxiety on a 100mm visual analog scale. This follow-up cohort study compared their needle anxiety to previous vaccination records, including number of vaccinations between ages four and six years (total and same-day maximum), and subsequent initiation of the HPV vaccine through age 13. Of the 120 preadolescents enrolled between 4.28.09 and 1.19.2010, 117 received preschool vaccinations between ages four and six years. The likelihood of being in the upper quartile of fear (VAS≥83) five years later increased with each additional same-day injection (OR=3.108, p=0.0100 95%CI=1.311, 7.367), but was not related to total lifetime or total four-to-six year injections. Only 12.5% (15) of parents reported anxiety about their preadolescents' vaccines (VAS>50). Parent and child anxiety was weakly correlated (r=0.15). Eight children in the upper fear quartile began their HPV series (26.67%) compared to 14 in the lower quartile (48.28% VAS<32) (OR 2.57, p=0.0889, 95%CI 0.864-7.621); there was no difference in HPV uptake between upper and lower quartile of parent anxiety. The more same-day preschool injections between 4 and 6years of age, the more likely a child was to fear needles five years later. Preadolescent needle fear was a stronger predictor than parent vaccine anxiety of subsequent HPV vaccine uptake. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The biopolitics of needle exchange in the United States

PubMed Central

McLean, Katherine

2012-01-01

Needle exchange began in the United States as a fragmented and illegal practice initiated by actors at the grassroots level; since the late 1980s, needle exchange has achieved increasing yet variable levels of institutional support across the country, receiving official sanction and funding from state and municipal governments. In turn, the practice(s) and discourse(s) of needle exchange have shifted significantly in many locales, becoming the purview of professional administration that advocates needle exchange as a necessary public health measure. This article is interested in the ways in which needle exchange has become implicated in and appropriated by networks of power seeking to discipline and regulate injection drug use. Drawing theoretically on Michel Foucault’s writings concerning biopower and governmentality, it will examine the proliferation of discourses, knowledges, and rules surrounding needle exchange in the United States. At the same time, this article will avoid a characterization of needle exchange that envisions the unilateral control of drug users by governmental power, illuminating instead both its negative and productive effects for drug users. Namely, it will explore how needle exchange creates both subjects of interest and subjects of resistance among drug users – that is to say, the governmentalization of needle exchange and its ‘clients’. PMID:22389572

Effect of needle size and type, reuse of needles, insertion speed, and removal of hair on contamination of joints with tissue debris and hair after arthrocentesis.

PubMed

Adams, Stephen B; Moore, George E; Elrashidy, Mohammed; Mohamed, Ahmed; Snyder, Paul W

2010-08-01

To assess joint contamination with tissue and hair after arthrocentesis of equine fetlock joints. Experimental. Limb specimens from 8 equine cadavers. Soft tissues including the joint capsule were harvested from the dorsal aspect of the fetlock joints and mounted on a wooden frame. Needles inserted through the joint tissue preparation were flushed into tissue culture plates that were examined for tissue and hair debris. Variables evaluated were gauge and type of needle (16, 18, 20, and 22 G sharp disposable needles and 20 G disposable spinal needles with stylet), number of times each needle was used (1, 2, 3, 4), length of hair (unclipped, clipped, shaved with razor), and needle insertion speed (fast, slow). Descriptive and statistical evaluations were performed. Tissue contamination was identified in 1145 of 1260 wells and hair contamination was identified in 384 of 1260 wells. Twenty gauge needles inserted through unclipped hair resulted in the least amount of hair contamination. Compared with 20 G needles with fast insertion 1 time through unclipped hair the odds ratios for contamination with hair were significantly greater for 16 G sharp disposable needles, 20 G spinal needles, clipped hair, shaved hair, and reuse of the needles. Spinal needles inserted through unclipped hair transferred many long hairs into the joint space. Reuse of needles for arthrocentesis should be avoided. Removal of hair is not indicated for arthrocentesis with sharp injection needles but is recommended when using spinal needles with stylets. Joint contamination with hair and tissue debris will be decreased by specific needle insertion techniques. Decreased contamination of joints may reduce the frequency of joint infections after arthrocentesis.

Fusion of electromagnetic trackers to improve needle deflection estimation: simulation study.

PubMed

Sadjadi, Hossein; Hashtrudi-Zaad, Keyvan; Fichtinger, Gabor

2013-10-01

We present a needle deflection estimation method to anticipate needle bending during insertion into deformable tissue. Using limited additional sensory information, our approach reduces the estimation error caused by uncertainties inherent in the conventional needle deflection estimation methods. We use Kalman filters to combine a kinematic needle deflection model with the position measurements of the base and the tip of the needle taken by electromagnetic (EM) trackers. One EM tracker is installed on the needle base and estimates the needle tip position indirectly using the kinematic needle deflection model. Another EM tracker is installed on the needle tip and estimates the needle tip position through direct, but noisy measurements. Kalman filters are then employed to fuse these two estimates in real time and provide a reliable estimate of the needle tip position, with reduced variance in the estimation error. We implemented this method to compensate for needle deflection during simulated needle insertions and performed sensitivity analysis for various conditions. At an insertion depth of 150 mm, we observed needle tip estimation error reductions in the range of 28% (from 1.8 to 1.3 mm) to 74% (from 4.8 to 1.2 mm), which demonstrates the effectiveness of our method, offering a clinically practical solution.

RNA Editing of the GP Gene of Ebola Virus is an Important Pathogenicity Factor.

PubMed

Volchkova, Valentina A; Dolnik, Olga; Martinez, Mikel J; Reynard, Olivier; Volchkov, Viktor E

2015-10-01

Synthesis of the surface glycoprotein GP of Ebola virus (EBOV) is dependent on transcriptional RNA editing, whereas direct expression of the GP gene results in synthesis of nonstructural secreted glycoprotein sGP. In this study, we investigate the role of RNA editing in the pathogenicity of EBOV using a guinea pig model and recombinant guinea pig-adapted EBOV containing mutations at the editing site, allowing expression of surface GP without the need for RNA editing, and also preventing synthesis of sGP. We demonstrate that the elimination of the editing site leads to EBOV attenuation in vivo, explained by lower virus spread caused by the higher virus cytotoxicity and, most likely, by an increased ability of the host defense systems to recognize and eliminate virus-infected cells. We also demonstrate that expression of sGP does not affect pathogenicity of EBOV in guinea pigs. In conclusion, data obtained indicate that downregulation of the level of surface GP expression through a mechanism of GP gene RNA editing plays an important role in the high pathogenicity of EBOV. © The Author 2015. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Infectious Diseases Society of America. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Introducing a GP copayment in Australia: Who would carry the cost burden?

PubMed

Elkins, Rosemary Kate; Schurer, Stefanie

2017-05-01

Recent policy changes designed to contain unsustainable health expenditure growth imply that many more Australians may soon be charged a copayment to consult a GP. We explore the distributional consequences associated with a range of hypothetical GP copayment scenarios using nationally-representative Australian survey data. For each scenario, we estimate the cost burden that individuals and households across the income distribution would need to absorb to maintain their current GP service utilisation. Even when concessional patients are charged a third or a quarter of the non-concessional copayment rate, the average estimated cost burden in the lowest income quartile is typically between three and six times that of the highest, and the average cost burden for women is significantly higher than for men within every income quartile. These disparities are intensified for those with a chronic illness. We conclude that the widespread implementation of GP copayments would disproportionately burden lower-income families, who experience higher rates of chronic illness, higher demand for GP services, and lower capacity to absorb price increases. The regressive nature of GP copayments is reduced when concessional and child patients are exempted entirely, highlighting the importance of supporting GPs-particularly in disadvantaged areas-to maintain bulk-billing arrangements for vulnerable patient groups. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

The Effects of IGF-1 on Trk Expressing DRG Neurons with HIV-gp120- Induced Neurotoxicity.

PubMed

Li, Hao; Liu, Zhen; Chi, Heng; Bi, Yanwen; Song, Lijun; Liu, Huaxiang

2016-01-01

HIV envelope glycoprotein gp120 is the main protein that causes HIVassociated sensory neuropathy. However, the underlying mechanisms of gp120-induced neurotoxicity are still unclear. There are lack effective treatments for relieving HIV-related neuropathic symptoms caused by gp120-induced neurotoxicity. In the present study, tyrosine kinase receptor (Trk)A, TrkB, and TrkC expression in primary cultured dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons with gp120-induced neurotoxicity was investigated. The effects of IGF-1 on distinct Trk-positive DRG neurons with gp120-induced neurotoxicity were also determined. The results showed that gp120 not only dose-dependently induced DRG neuronal apoptosis and inhibited neuronal survival and neurite outgrowth, but also decreased distinct Trk expression levels. IGF-1 rescued DRG neurons from apoptosis and improved neuronal survival of gp120 neurotoxic DRG neurons in vitro. IGF-1 also improved TrkA and TrkB, but not TrkC, expression in gp120 neurotoxic conditions. The effects of IGF-1 could be blocked by preincubation with the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) inhibitor LY294002. These results suggested that gp120 may have a wide range of neurotoxicity on different subpopulations of DRG neurons, while IGF-1 might only relieve some subpopulations of DRG neurons with gp120-induced neurotoxicity. These data provide novel information of mechanisms of gp120 neurotoxicity on primary sensory neurons and the potential therapeutic effects of IGF-1 on gp120-induced neurotoxicity.

Characterization of Sulfolobus islandicus rod-shaped virus 2 gp19, a single-strand specific endonuclease.

PubMed

Gardner, Andrew F; Prangishvili, David; Jack, William E

2011-09-01

The hyperthermophilic Sulfolobus islandicus rod-shaped virus 2 (SIRV2) encodes a 25-kDa protein (SIRV2gp19) annotated as a hypothetical protein with sequence homology to the RecB nuclease superfamily. Even though SIRV2gp19 homologs are conserved throughout the rudivirus family and presumably play a role in the viral life cycle, SIRV2gp19 has not been functionally characterized. To define the minimal requirements for activity, SIRV2gp19 was purified and tested under varying conditions. SIRV2gp19 is a single-strand specific endonuclease that requires Mg(2+) for activity and is inactive on double-stranded DNA. A conserved aspartic acid in RecB nuclease superfamily Motif II (D89) is also essential for SIRV2gp19 activity and mutation to alanine (D89A) abolishes activity. Therefore, the SIRV2gp19 cleavage mechanism is similar to previously described RecB nucleases. Finally, SIRV2gp19 single-stranded DNA endonuclease activity could play a role in host chromosome degradation during SIRV2 lytic infection.

[Brief introduction of acupuncture needling and teaching keypoint].

PubMed

Hou, Shu-wei; Guo, Li; Kong, Su-ping

2014-09-01

We summarized our accumulated clinical and teaching experiences and explored the regularity of acupuncture needling and teaching. It is of great importance in pressing hand during inserting needle. Stroking and pressing are two crucial parts which deserve more attention, and seldom useage of pressing hand should be abolished. Operating hand needs practice before inserting needle, while it should fully relaxed during inserting. Blending "touching", "stretch" "gathering" "erupting" and "advancing" in single moment, applying appropriate dynamic mode of inserting needle such as "join 3 forces as one" "3 points in a line" expertly and naturally. In addition, enough attention should be paid on "altering direction" and "shifting point". Inserting deftly and powerfully, no/slight sensation, deqi when inserting needle are the highest reflection as an acupuncturist.

A Tale of Two Tails: Exploring Stellar Populations in the Tidal Tails of NGC 3256

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rodruck, Michael; Charlton, Jane C.; Konstantopoulos, Iraklis

2016-01-01

Galaxy interactions can inject material into the intergalactic medium via violent gravitational dynamics, often visualized in tidal tails. The composition of these tails has remained a mystery, as previous studies have focused on detecting tidal features, rather than the composite material itself. We have developed an observing program using deep, multiband imaging to probe the chaotic regions of tidal tails in search for an underlying stellar population. NGC 3256's twin tidal tails serve as a case study for this new technique. Our results show color values of u - g = 1.15 and r - i = 0.08 for the Western tail, and u - g = 1.33 and r - i = 0.22 for the Eastern tail, corresponding to discrepant ages between the tails of approximately 320 Myr and 785 Myr, respectively. With the interaction age of the system measured at 400 Myr, we find the stellar light in Western tail to be dominated by disrupted star clusters formed during and after the interaction, whereas the light from the Eastern tail is dominated by a 10 Gyr population originating from the host galaxies. We fit the Eastern tail color to a Mixed Stellar Population (MSP) model comprised 94% by mass of a 10 Gyr stellar population, and 6% of a 309 Myr population. We find 52% of the bolometric flux originating from this 10 Gyr population. We also detect a blue to red color gradient in each tail, running from galactic center to tail tip. In addition to tidal tail light, we detect 29 star cluster candidates (SCCs) in the Western tail and 19 in the Eastern, with mean ages of 282 Myr and 98 Myr respectively. Interestingly, we find an excess of very blue SCCs in the Eastern tail as compared to the Western tail, marking a recent, small episode of star formation.

Anesthesia through an intraosseous line using an 18-gauge intravenous needle for emergency pediatric surgery.

PubMed

Hamed, Riyadh Khudeir; Hartmans, Sharon; Gausche-Hill, Marianne

2013-09-01

To describe the success and complication rate of intraosseous (IO) access for delivery of anesthesia with the use of an 18-gauge (G) intravenous (IV) needle. Prospective study. Children's Welfare Teaching Hospital, Baghdad, Iraq. 300 critically ill infants and toddlers, age 3 weeks to 16 months, requiring emergency surgery for intra-abdominal or pelvic conditions, in whom peripheral or central access was not obtainable. Patients presented for surgery between 2007 and 2010. In 26 patients, the IO catheter was established when peripheral access was not obtained at the outset of surgery; in 4 patients standard peripheral vascular access failed during the surgical procedure and IO access was obtained. An 18-G IV needle was placed into the proximal tibia and attached to an extension set with a 3-way stopcock to deliver anesthesia. For 26 critically ill children and 4 other children, IV access failed during delivery of anesthesia; vascular access was successfully obtained within minutes in all 30 infants (100%) using the intraosseous route. Ninety percent (27/30) of patients awoke immediately postoperatively in good condition; 10% (3/30) went to the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) for further care due to their critical preoperative condition. Complications associated with use of the IO route were considered minor (3/30 pts [10%]) and included extravasation of fluid in two cases and cellulitis in one. The IO route provided for rapid delivery of anesthesia, induction, and maintenance in this series of critically ill infants undergoing emergency surgery when other vascular access routes failed. Few complications were noted. Intraosseous access was achieved through a simple technique using an 18-gauge IV needle. © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

[Try to discuss manipulation of the "Feijing Zouqi" needling technique].

PubMed

Zhou, Dan; Gao, Ying; Wang, Fu-chun

2008-03-01

Based on description of "Feijing Zouqi" needling methods in Jin Zhen Fu (Rhyme Prose of Golden Needle) written by Xu Feng, and explain and analyze the descriptions of "Feijing Zouqi" needling method in Zhenjiu Juying (A Collection of Gems in Acu-Moxibustion) written by Gao Wu, Zhenjiu Wendui written by Wang Ji, Zhenjiu Dacheng (Great Compendium on Acu-Moxibustion) written by Yang Ji-zhou, Yixue Rumen (Elementary Medicine) written by LI Chan and many other works, summarize the technique characteristics of all the "Feijing Zouqi" needling methods. The characteristic of "Qinglong Baiwei" needling method is " first toward the left, then toward the right, slowly move or adjust with the hand"; and "Baihu Yaotou" needling method emphasizes "Tuifang Jinyuan" and "Yaozhen "; key point of "Canggui Tanxue" needling method is "Zuanti Sifang"; Chifeng Yingyuan" needling method emphasizes "Siwei Feixuan".

Mixed mode fuel injector with individually moveable needle valve members

DOEpatents

Stewart, Chris; Chockley, Scott A.; Ibrahim, Daniel R.; Lawrence, Keith; Tomaseki, Jay; Azam, Junru H.; Tian, Steven Ye; Shafer, Scott F.

2004-08-03

A fuel injector includes a homogenous charge nozzle outlet set and a conventional nozzle outlet set controlled respectively, by first and second needle valve members. One of the needle valve members moves to an open position while the other needle valve member remains stationary for a homogeneous charge injection event. The former needle valve member stays stationary while the other needle valve member moves to an open position for a conventional injection event. One of the needle valve members is at least partially positioned in the other needle valve member. Thus, the injector can perform homogeneous charge injection events, conventional injection events, or even a mixed mode having both types of injection events in a single engine cycle.

Genomic and proteomic characterization of SuMu, a Mu-like bacteriophage infecting Haemophilus parasuis

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

Background Haemophilus parasuis, the causative agent of Glässer’s disease, is prevalent in swine herds and clinical signs associated with this disease are meningitis, polyserositis, polyarthritis, and bacterial pneumonia. Six to eight week old pigs in segregated early weaning herds are particularly susceptible to the disease. Insufficient colostral antibody at weaning or the mixing of pigs with heterologous virulent H. parasuis strains from other farm sources in the nursery or grower-finisher stage are considered to be factors for the outbreak of Glässer’s disease. Previously, a Mu-like bacteriophage portal gene was detected in a virulent swine isolate of H. parasuis by nested polymerase chain reaction. Mu-like bacteriophages are related phyologenetically to enterobacteriophage Mu and are thought to carry virulence genes or to induce host expression of virulence genes. This study characterizes the Mu-like bacteriophage, named SuMu, isolated from a virulent H. parasuis isolate. Results Characterization was done by genomic comparison to enterobacteriophage Mu and proteomic identification of various homologs by mass spectrometry. This is the first report of isolation and characterization of this bacteriophage from the Myoviridae family, a double-stranded DNA bacteriophage with a contractile tail, from a virulent field isolate of H. parasuis. The genome size of bacteriophage SuMu was 37,151 bp. DNA sequencing revealed fifty five open reading frames, including twenty five homologs to Mu-like bacteriophage proteins: Nlp, phage transposase-C-terminal, COG2842, Gam-like protein, gp16, Mor, peptidoglycan recognition protein, gp29, gp30, gpG, gp32, gp34, gp36, gp37, gpL, phage tail tube protein, DNA circulation protein, gpP, gp45, gp46, gp47, COG3778, tail fiber protein gp37-C terminal, tail fiber assembly protein, and Com. The last open reading frame was homologous to IS1414. The G + C content of bacteriophage SuMu was 41.87% while its H. parasuis host genome�

Genomic and proteomic characterization of SuMu, a Mu-like bacteriophage infecting Haemophilus parasuis.

PubMed

Zehr, Emilie S; Tabatabai, Louisa B; Bayles, Darrell O

2012-07-23

Haemophilus parasuis, the causative agent of Glässer's disease, is prevalent in swine herds and clinical signs associated with this disease are meningitis, polyserositis, polyarthritis, and bacterial pneumonia. Six to eight week old pigs in segregated early weaning herds are particularly susceptible to the disease. Insufficient colostral antibody at weaning or the mixing of pigs with heterologous virulent H. parasuis strains from other farm sources in the nursery or grower-finisher stage are considered to be factors for the outbreak of Glässer's disease. Previously, a Mu-like bacteriophage portal gene was detected in a virulent swine isolate of H. parasuis by nested polymerase chain reaction. Mu-like bacteriophages are related phyologenetically to enterobacteriophage Mu and are thought to carry virulence genes or to induce host expression of virulence genes. This study characterizes the Mu-like bacteriophage, named SuMu, isolated from a virulent H. parasuis isolate. Characterization was done by genomic comparison to enterobacteriophage Mu and proteomic identification of various homologs by mass spectrometry. This is the first report of isolation and characterization of this bacteriophage from the Myoviridae family, a double-stranded DNA bacteriophage with a contractile tail, from a virulent field isolate of H. parasuis. The genome size of bacteriophage SuMu was 37,151 bp. DNA sequencing revealed fifty five open reading frames, including twenty five homologs to Mu-like bacteriophage proteins: Nlp, phage transposase-C-terminal, COG2842, Gam-like protein, gp16, Mor, peptidoglycan recognition protein, gp29, gp30, gpG, gp32, gp34, gp36, gp37, gpL, phage tail tube protein, DNA circulation protein, gpP, gp45, gp46, gp47, COG3778, tail fiber protein gp37-C terminal, tail fiber assembly protein, and Com. The last open reading frame was homologous to IS1414. The G + C content of bacteriophage SuMu was 41.87% while its H. parasuis host genome's G + C content was

Subsequent Breast Cancer Risk Following Diagnosis of Atypical Ductal Hyperplasia on Needle Biopsy

PubMed Central

Menes, Tehillah S; Kerlikowske, Karla; Lange, Jane; Jaffer, Shabnam; Rosenberg, Robert; Miglioretti, Diana L.

2017-01-01

Background Atypical ductal hyperplasia (ADH) is a known strong risk factor for breast cancer. Published risk estimates are based on cohorts that included women diagnosed prior to the widespread use of screening mammograms and do not differentiate between the methods used to diagnose ADH, which may be related to size of the ADH focus. These risks may overestimate the risk of women currently diagnosed with ADH. We sought to examine the risk of invasive cancer associated with ADH diagnosed on core needle biopsy versus excisional biopsy. Design Cohort study comparing ten-year cumulative risk of invasive breast cancer in women undergoing mammography with and without a diagnosis of ADH. Setting Five breast imaging registries that participate in the National Cancer Institute–funded Breast Cancer Surveillance Consortium (BCSC). Participants Women undergoing mammography in the BCSC. Exposure Diagnosis of ADH on core needle biopsy or excisional biopsy in women undergoing mammography. Main outcome Ten-year cumulative risk of invasive breast cancer risk. Results The sample included 955,331 women with 1,727 diagnoses of ADH. From 1996 to 2012, the proportion of ADH diagnosed by core needle biopsy increased from 21% to 77%. Ten years following a diagnosis of ADH, the cumulative risk of invasive breast cancer was 2.6 (95% CI 2.0, 3.4) times higher than risk in women with no ADH. ADH diagnosed via excisional biopsy was associated with an adjusted HR of 3.0 (95% CI 2.0, 4.5), and via core needle biopsy, with an HR of 2.2 (95% CI 1.5, 3.4). Ten years after an ADH diagnosis, an estimated 5.7% (95% CI 4.3, 10.1) of women were diagnosed with invasive cancer. Women with ADH diagnosed on excisional biopsy had a slightly higher risk (6.7 %; 95% CI 3.0, 12.8) compared to those with ADH diagnosed via core needle biopsy (5.0%; 95% CI 2.2, 8.9). Conclusions Current 10-year risks of invasive breast cancer after a diagnosis of ADH may be lower than previously reported. The risk associated

[NF-kappaB-induced gp96 up-regulation promotes hepatocyte growth, cell cycle progression and transition].

PubMed

Feng, Cong; Wu, Bo; Fan, Hongxia; Li, Changfei; Meng, Songdong

2014-10-04

To investigate the mechanism of gp96 raised during hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection and the pathological mechanism. The mechanism of NF-KB activating gp96 expression was determined by bioinformatics analysis, luciferase reporter assay, real-time PCR and Western blot. The effect of over-expression and knockdown gp96 expression by transfection or RNA interference on hepatocyte proliferation, apoptosis and cell cycle was examined by CCK-8 and flow cytometry. The role of gp96 for HCC development was determined by epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and colony formation assay. NF-kB significantly increased the gp96 expression by binding to the NF-kappaB binding site. Over-expression and knockdown studies both show that gp96 promoted hepatocyte proliferation, inhibited apoptosis, and induced G0/G1 to S phase cell cycle progression. Moreover, gp96 induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition and increased colony formation ability of hepatocytes. Our results therefore provide insights in chronic HBV infection-induced gp96 expression, and indicate that elevated gp96 may contribute to HCC development during chronic inflammation.

Reference values for voluntary and stimulated single-fibre EMG using concentric needle electrodes: a multicentre prospective study.

PubMed

Kokubun, Norito; Sonoo, Masahiro; Imai, Tomihiro; Arimura, Yumiko; Kuwabara, Satoshi; Komori, Tetsuo; Kobayashi, Masahito; Nagashima, Takahide; Hatanaka, Yuki; Tsuda, Emiko; Misawa, Sonoko; Abe, Tatsuya; Arimura, Kimiyoshi

2012-03-01

The aim of this study is to establish reference values for single-fibre electromyography (SFEMG) using concentric needles in a prospective, multicentre study. Voluntary or stimulated SFEMG at the extensor digitorum communis (EDC) or frontalis (FRO) muscles was conducted in 56-63 of a total of 69 normal subjects below the age of 60years at six Japanese institutes. The cut-off values for mean consecutive difference (MCD) of individual potentials were calculated using +2.5 SD or 95% prediction limit (one-tail) of the upper 10th percentile MCD value for individual subjects. The cut-off values for individual MCD (+2.5 SD) were 56.8μs for EDC-V (voluntary SFEMG for EDC), 58.8μs for EDC-S (stimulated SFEMG for EDC), 56.8μs for FRO-V (voluntary SFEMG for FRO) and 51.0μs for FRO-S (stimulated SFEMG for FRO). The false positive rates using these cut-off values were around 2%. The +2.5 SD and 95% prediction limit might be two optimal cut-off values, depending on the clinical question. The obtained reference values were larger than those reported previously using concentric needles, but might better coincide with conventional values. This is the first multicentre study reporting reference values for SFEMG using concentric needles. The way to determine cut-off values and the statistically correct definition of the percentile were discussed. Copyright © 2011 International Federation of Clinical Neurophysiology. Published by Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

A Multicenter comparative trial of a novel EUS-guided core biopsy needle (SharkCore™) with the 22-gauge needle in patients with solid pancreatic mass lesions

PubMed Central

Naveed, Mariam; Siddiqui, Ali A.; Kowalski, Thomas E.; Loren, David E.; Khalid, Ammara; Soomro, Ayesha; Mazhar, Syed M.; Yoo, Joseph; Hasan, Raza; Yalamanchili, Silpa; Tarangelo, Nicholas; Taylor, Linda J.; Adler, Douglas G.

2018-01-01

Background and Objectives: The ability to obtain adequate tissue of solid pancreatic lesions by EUS-guided remains a challenge. The aim of this study was to compare the performance characteristics and safety of EUS-FNA for evaluating solid pancreatic lesions using the standard 22-gauge needle versus a novel EUS biopsy needle. Methods: This was a multicenter retrospective study of EUS-guided sampling of solid pancreatic lesions between 2009 and 2015. Patients underwent EUS-guided sampling with a 22-gauge SharkCore (SC) needle or a standard 22-gauge FNA needle. Technical success, performance characteristics of EUS-FNA, the number of needle passes required to obtain a diagnosis, diagnostic accuracy, and complications were compared. Results: A total of 1088 patients (mean age = 66 years; 49% female) with pancreatic masses underwent EUS-guided sampling with a 22-gauge SC needle (n = 115) or a standard 22-gauge FNA needle (n = 973). Technical success was 100%. The frequency of obtaining an adequate cytology by EUS-FNA was similar when using the SC and the standard needle (94.1% vs. 92.7%, respectively). The sensitivity, specificity, and diagnostic accuracy of EUS-FNA for tissue diagnosis were not significantly different between two needles. Adequate sample collection leading to a definite diagnosis was achieved by the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd pass in 73%, 92%, and 98% of procedures using the SC needle and 20%, 37%, and 94% procedures using the standard needle (P < 0.001), respectively. The median number of passes to obtain a tissue diagnosis using the SC needle was significantly less as compared to the standard needle (1 and 3, respectively; P < 0.001). Conclusions: The EUS SC biopsy needle is safe and technically feasible for EUS-FNA of solid pancreatic mass lesions. Preliminary results suggest that the SC needle has a diagnostic yield similar to the standard EUS needle and significantly reduces the number of needle passes required to obtain a tissue diagnosis. PMID:29451167

21 CFR 882.1350 - Needle electrode.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 8 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false Needle electrode. 882.1350 Section 882.1350 Food and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES (CONTINUED) MEDICAL DEVICES NEUROLOGICAL DEVICES Neurological Diagnostic Devices § 882.1350 Needle electrode. (a...

21 CFR 882.1350 - Needle electrode.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 8 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Needle electrode. 882.1350 Section 882.1350 Food and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES (CONTINUED) MEDICAL DEVICES NEUROLOGICAL DEVICES Neurological Diagnostic Devices § 882.1350 Needle electrode. (a...

Needle Steering in Biological Tissue using Ultrasound-based Online Curvature Estimation

PubMed Central

Moreira, Pedro; Patil, Sachin; Alterovitz, Ron; Misra, Sarthak

2014-01-01

Percutaneous needle insertions are commonly performed for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. Accurate placement of the needle tip is important to the success of many needle procedures. The current needle steering systems depend on needle-tissue-specific data, such as maximum curvature, that is unavailable prior to an interventional procedure. In this paper, we present a novel three-dimensional adaptive steering method for flexible bevel-tipped needles that is capable of performing accurate tip placement without previous knowledge about needle curvature. The method steers the needle by integrating duty-cycled needle steering, online curvature estimation, ultrasound-based needle tracking, and sampling-based motion planning. The needle curvature estimation is performed online and used to adapt the path and duty cycling. We evaluated the method using experiments in a homogenous gelatin phantom, a two-layer gelatin phantom, and a biological tissue phantom composed of a gelatin layer and in vitro chicken tissue. In all experiments, virtual obstacles and targets move in order to represent the disturbances that might occur due to tissue deformation and physiological processes. The average targeting error using our new adaptive method is 40% lower than using the conventional non-adaptive duty-cycled needle steering method. PMID:26229729

Gp63-like molecules in Phytomonas serpens: possible role in the insect interaction.

PubMed

d'Avila-Levy, Claudia M; Santos, Lívia O; Marinho, Fernanda A; Dias, Felipe A; Lopes, Angela H; Santos, André L S; Branquinha, Marta H

2006-06-01

In this study, we demonstrated that metallopeptidase inhibitors (EDTA, EGTA, and 1,10-phenanthroline) were able to arrest Phytomonas serpens growth in distinct patterns. This parasite released exclusively metallopeptidases to the extracellular environment, whereas in cellular extracts only cysteine peptidases were detected. In addition, an extracellular polypeptide of 60 kDa reacted in Western blotting probed with polyclonal antibody raised against gp63 of Leishmania amazonensis. In the cellular parasite extract, this antibody recognized bands migrating at 63 and 52 kDa, which partitioned on both aqueous and membrane-rich fractions. Flow cytometry and fluorescence microscopy analyses showed that the gp63-like molecules have a surface location. Moreover, phospholipase C (PLC)-treated parasites reduced the number of gp63-positive cells. The anti-cross-reacting determinant (CRD) and anti-gp63 antibodies recognized the 60-kDa band in the supernatant from PLC-treated cells, suggesting that this protein is glycosylphosphatidylinositol-anchored to the plasma membrane. This is the first report on the presence of gp63-like molecules in members of the Phytomonas genus. The pretreatment of the parasites with anti-gp63 antibody significantly diminished their adhesion index to explanted salivary glands of the phytophagous insect Oncopeltus fasciatus, suggesting a potential involvement of the gp63-like molecules in the adhesive process of this plant trypanosomatid.

The Genital Tract Virulence Factor pGP3 Is Essential for Chlamydia muridarum Colonization in the Gastrointestinal Tract.

PubMed

Shao, Lili; Zhang, Tianyuan; Melero, Jose; Huang, Yumeng; Liu, Yuanjun; Liu, Quanzhong; He, Cheng; Nelson, David E; Zhong, Guangming

2018-01-01

The cryptic plasmid is essential for Chlamydia muridarum dissemination from the genital tract to the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Following intravaginal inoculation, a C. muridarum strain deficient in plasmid-encoded pGP3 or pGP4 but not pGP5, pGP7, or pGP8 failed to spread to the mouse gastrointestinal tract, although mice infected with these strains developed productive genital tract infections. pGP3- or pGP4-deficient strains also failed to colonize the gastrointestinal tract when delivered intragastrically. pGP4 regulates pGP3, while pGP3 does not affect pGP4 expression, indicating that pGP3 is critical for C. muridarum colonization of the gastrointestinal tract. Mutants deficient in GlgA, a chromosome-encoded protein regulated by pGP4, also consistently colonized the mouse gastrointestinal tract. Interestingly, C. muridarum colonization of the gastrointestinal tract positively correlated with pathogenicity in the upper genital tract. pGP3-deficient C. muridarum strains did not induce hydrosalpinx or spread to the GI tract even when delivered to the oviduct by intrabursal inoculation. Thus, the current study not only has revealed that pGP3 is a novel chlamydial colonization factor in the gastrointestinal tract but also has laid a foundation for investigating the significance of gastrointestinal Chlamydia . Copyright © 2017 American Society for Microbiology.

Ultrasound-Guided Fine Needle Aspiration Biopsy of the Thyroid

MedlinePlus

... News Physician Resources Professions Site Index A-Z Ultrasound-Guided Fine Needle Aspiration Biopsy of the Thyroid ... Needle Aspiration Biopsy of the Thyroid? What is Ultrasound-Guided Fine Needle Aspiration Biopsy of the Thyroid? ...

High-pressure needle interface for thermoplastic microfluidics.

PubMed

Chen, C F; Liu, J; Hromada, L P; Tsao, C W; Chang, C C; DeVoe, D L

2009-01-07

A robust and low dead volume world-to-chip interface for thermoplastic microfluidics has been developed. The high pressure fluidic port employs a stainless steel needle inserted into a mating hole aligned to an embedded microchannel, with an interference fit used to increase pressure resistance. Alternately, a self-tapping threaded needle screwed into a mating hole is also demonstrated. In both cases, the flat bottom needle ports seat directly against the microchannel substrate, ensuring low interfacial dead volumes. Low dispersion is observed for dye bands passing the interfaces. The needle ports offer sufficient pull-out forces for applications such as liquid chromatography that require high internal fluid pressures, with the epoxy-free interfaces compatible with internal microchannel pressures above 40 MPa.

Highly sensitive molecular diagnosis of prostate cancer using surplus material washed off from biopsy needles

PubMed Central

Bermudo, R; Abia, D; Mozos, A; García-Cruz, E; Alcaraz, A; Ortiz, Á R; Thomson, T M; Fernández, P L

2011-01-01

Introduction: Currently, final diagnosis of prostate cancer (PCa) is based on histopathological analysis of needle biopsies, but this process often bears uncertainties due to small sample size, tumour focality and pathologist's subjective assessment. Methods: Prostate cancer diagnostic signatures were generated by applying linear discriminant analysis to microarray and real-time RT–PCR (qRT–PCR) data from normal and tumoural prostate tissue samples. Additionally, after removal of biopsy tissues, material washed off from transrectal biopsy needles was used for molecular profiling and discriminant analysis. Results: Linear discriminant analysis applied to microarray data for a set of 318 genes differentially expressed between non-tumoural and tumoural prostate samples produced 26 gene signatures, which classified the 84 samples used with 100% accuracy. To identify signatures potentially useful for the diagnosis of prostate biopsies, surplus material washed off from routine biopsy needles from 53 patients was used to generate qRT–PCR data for a subset of 11 genes. This analysis identified a six-gene signature that correctly assigned the biopsies as benign or tumoural in 92.6% of the cases, with 88.8% sensitivity and 96.1% specificity. Conclusion: Surplus material from prostate needle biopsies can be used for minimal-size gene signature analysis for sensitive and accurate discrimination between non-tumoural and tumoural prostates, without interference with current diagnostic procedures. This approach could be a useful adjunct to current procedures in PCa diagnosis. PMID:22009027

A clinical guide to needle desensitization for the paediatric patient.

PubMed

Taylor, Greig D; Campbell, Caroline

2015-05-01

Needle phobia is a common problem encountered by dental practitioners and it can pose a challenge, especially in the paediatric patient. Needle desensitization can be used for patients who have needle fear or phobia and help them overcome this by repeated, non-threatening and controlled contacts. This paper will describe an accepted technique of needle desensitization and work through the steps required to achieve a successful outcome of local anaesthesia being delivered in a calm, safe and controlled manner. Clinical Relevance: Needle desensitization is an effective technique which can be used to enable a needle phobic patient to receive a dental injection.

Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Distraction and Hypnosis for Needle-Related Pain and Distress in Children and Adolescents

PubMed Central

Noel, Melanie; Parker, Jennifer A.; Chambers, Christine T.; Uman, Lindsay S.; Kisely, Steve R.; McGrath, Patrick J.

2014-01-01

Objective To systematically review the evidence (and quality) for distraction and hypnosis for needle-related pain and distress in children and adolescents. To explore the effects of distraction characteristics (e.g., adult involvement, type of distracter), child age, and study risk of bias on treatment efficacy. Methods 26 distraction and 7 hypnosis trials were included and self-report, observer-report, and behavioral pain intensity and distress examined. Distraction studies were coded for 4 intervention characteristics, and all studies coded for child age and study risk of bias. Results Findings showed strong support for distraction and hypnosis for reducing pain and distress from needle procedures. The quality of available evidence was low, however. Characteristics of distraction interventions, child age, and study risk of bias showed some influence on treatment efficacy. Conclusions Distraction and hypnosis are efficacious in reducing needle-related pain and distress in children. The quality of trials in this area needs to be improved. PMID:24891439

Sugar export limits size of conifer needles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rademaker, Hanna; Zwieniecki, Maciej A.; Bohr, Tomas; Jensen, Kaare H.

2017-04-01

Plant leaf size varies by more than three orders of magnitude, from a few millimeters to over one meter. Conifer leaves, however, are relatively short and the majority of needles are no longer than 6 cm. The reason for the strong confinement of the trait-space is unknown. We show that sugars produced near the tip of long needles cannot be exported efficiently, because the pressure required to drive vascular flow would exceed the greatest available pressure (the osmotic pressure). This basic constraint leads to the formation of an inactive region of stagnant fluid near the needle tip, which does not contribute to sugar flow. Remarkably, we find that the size of the active part does not scale with needle length. We predict a single maximum needle size of 5 cm, in accord with data from 519 conifer species. This could help rationalize the recent observation that conifers have significantly smaller leaves than angiosperms, and provide a biophysical explanation for this intriguing difference between the two largest groups of plants.

A GIS-based methodology for improving needle exchange service delivery

PubMed Central

Davidson, Peter J.; Scholar, Shoshanna; Howe, Mary

2010-01-01

Background A variety of legal, social and logistical factors can prevent individuals from accessing formal needle exchange programs. One common solution to this problem is satellite exchange, which involves collaborating with people who already use an exchange to deliver needles and other supplies to those unable to access the exchange. While this approach can be very successful, one potential problem is that those most willing to deliver needles to their peers are often members of social networks that are already well connected with the needle exchange, leading to duplication of effort. In this paper we describe a simple and novel method for identifying groups of people who are demonstrably in need of improved access to needles, and for re-targeting efforts to meet the needs of those people. The method described was piloted at the Homeless Youth Alliance, San Francisco, USA, and further refined at Clean Needles Now, Los Angeles, USA. Methods People accessing needle exchange sites were asked to participate in a survey with two questions: “where were you and what time was it last time someone borrowed a needle from you?” and “where were you and what time was it last time you had to borrow a needle from someone else?” Responses were geocoded, and maps produced showing ‘hotspots’ where people were frequently finding themselves without needles. Results Satellite needle exchange was refined from an ad-hoc activity into one which focused on delivering needles to those with empirically demonstrable need. Maps produced in the process also proved valuable in discussions with local officials and other agencies about funding, as well as needle provision policy and practices. Conclusion We describe a method for rapidly assessing, describing, and responding to unmet and under-met need among injecting drug users. The method is particularly well-suited to organizations with extremely limited resources. PMID:21112757

Diversion of HIV-1 Vaccine-induced Immunity by gp41-Microbiota Cross-reactive Antibodies

PubMed Central

Williams, Wilton B; Liao, Hua-Xin; Moody, M. Anthony; Kepler, Thomas B.; Alam, S Munir; Gao, Feng; Wiehe, Kevin; Trama, Ashley M.; Jones, Kathryn; Zhang, Ruijun; Song, Hongshuo; Marshall, Dawn J; Whitesides, John F; Sawatzki, Kaitlin; Hua, Axin; Liu, Pinghuang; Tay, Matthew Z; Seaton, Kelly; Shen, Xiaoying; Foulger, Andrew; Lloyd, Krissey E.; Parks, Robert; Pollara, Justin; Ferrari, Guido; Yu, Jae-Sung; Vandergrift, Nathan; Montefiori, David C.; Sobieszczyk, Magdalena E; Hammer, Scott; Karuna, Shelly; Gilbert, Peter; Grove, Doug; Grunenberg, Nicole; McElrath, Julie; Mascola, John R.; Koup, Richard A; Corey, Lawrence; Nabel, Gary J.; Morgan, Cecilia; Churchyard, Gavin; Maenza, Janine; Keefer, Michael; Graham, Barney S.; Baden, Lindsey R.; Tomaras, Georgia D.; Haynes, Barton F.

2015-01-01

A HIV-1 DNA prime-recombinant Adenovirus Type 5 (rAd5) boost vaccine failed to protect from HIV-1 acquisition. We studied the nature of the vaccine-induced antibody (Ab) response to HIV-1 envelope (Env). HIV-1-reactive plasma Ab titers were higher to Env gp41 than gp120, and repertoire analysis demonstrated that 93% of HIV-1-reactive Abs from memory B cells was to Env gp41. Vaccine-induced gp41-reactive monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) were non-neutralizing, and frequently polyreactive with host and environmental antigens including intestinal microbiota (IM). Next generation sequencing of an IGHV repertoire prior to vaccination revealed an Env-IM cross-reactive Ab that was clonally-related to a subsequent vaccine-induced gp41-reactive Ab. Thus, HIV-1 Env DNA-rAd5 vaccine induced a dominant IM-polyreactive, non-neutralizing gp41-reactive Ab repertoire response that was associated with no vaccine efficacy. PMID:26229114

Membrane insertion and assembly of epitope-tagged gp9 at the tip of the M13 phage.

PubMed

Ploss, Martin; Kuhn, Andreas

2011-09-26

Filamentous M13 phage extrude from infected Escherichia coli with a tip structure composed of gp7 and gp9. This tip structure is extended by the assembly of the filament composed of the major coat protein gp8. Finally, gp3 and gp6 terminate the phage structure at the proximal end. Up to now, gp3 has been the primary tool for phage display technology. However, gp7, gp8 and gp9 could also be used for phage display and these phage particles should bind to two different or more surfaces when the modified coat proteins are combined. Therefore, we tested here if the amino-terminal end of gp9 can be modified and whether the modified portion is exposed and detectable on the M13 phage particles. The amino-terminal region of gp9 was modified by inserting short sequences that encode antigenic epitopes. We show here that the modified gp9 proteins correctly integrate into the membrane using the membrane insertase YidC exposing the modified epitope into the periplasm. The proteins are then efficiently assembled onto the phage particles. Also extensions up to 36 amino acid residues at the amino-terminal end of gp9 did not interfere with membrane integration and phage assembly. The exposure of the antigenic tags on the phage was visualised with immunogold labelling by electron microscopy and verified by dot blotting with antibodies to the tags. Our results suggest that gp9 at the phage tip is suitable for the phage display technology. The modified gp9 can be supplied in trans from a plasmid and fully complements M13 phage with an amber mutation in gene 9. The modified phage tip is very well accessible to antibodies.

Membrane insertion and assembly of epitope-tagged gp9 at the tip of the M13 phage

PubMed Central

2011-01-01

Background Filamentous M13 phage extrude from infected Escherichia coli with a tip structure composed of gp7 and gp9. This tip structure is extended by the assembly of the filament composed of the major coat protein gp8. Finally, gp3 and gp6 terminate the phage structure at the proximal end. Up to now, gp3 has been the primary tool for phage display technology. However, gp7, gp8 and gp9 could also be used for phage display and these phage particles should bind to two different or more surfaces when the modified coat proteins are combined. Therefore, we tested here if the amino-terminal end of gp9 can be modified and whether the modified portion is exposed and detectable on the M13 phage particles. Results The amino-terminal region of gp9 was modified by inserting short sequences that encode antigenic epitopes. We show here that the modified gp9 proteins correctly integrate into the membrane using the membrane insertase YidC exposing the modified epitope into the periplasm. The proteins are then efficiently assembled onto the phage particles. Also extensions up to 36 amino acid residues at the amino-terminal end of gp9 did not interfere with membrane integration and phage assembly. The exposure of the antigenic tags on the phage was visualised with immunogold labelling by electron microscopy and verified by dot blotting with antibodies to the tags. Conclusions Our results suggest that gp9 at the phage tip is suitable for the phage display technology. The modified gp9 can be supplied in trans from a plasmid and fully complements M13 phage with an amber mutation in gene 9. The modified phage tip is very well accessible to antibodies. PMID:21943062

Free thyroxine in needle washout after fine needle aspiration biopsy of toxic thyroid nodules.

PubMed

Raikov, Nikolai; Nonchev, Boyan; Chaushev, Borislav; Vjagova, Diyana; Todorov, Svetoslav; Bocheva, Yana; Malceva, Daniela; Vicheva, Snejinka; Raikova, Asyia; Argatska, Antoaneta; Raikov, Miroslav

2016-01-01

The main diagnostic tool for toxic adenomas (TA) is radionuclide imaging indicated in patients with evidence of thyroid nodules in combination with thyrotoxic syndrome. Thyroid ultrasound and fine-needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) are widely used for the valuation of thyroid masses. There is no literature data concerning the utility of FNAB and related tests for the diagnosis of hyperfunctioning thyroid nodules. The purpose of this study is to determine the levels of free thyroxine (FT4) in the needle washout after FNAB of hot thyroid nodules. The results of our study show that the FT4 levels in needle washout from TA were significantly higher than the surrounding parenchyma and correlated with the hormonal changes in patients with thyroid hyperfunctioning nodules. Further studies on a large number of patients are needed to refine the diagnostic value of this method and evaluate its importance in quantitative risk assessment of thyroid autonomy.

[Efficacy observation of nonspecific low back pain treated with the dragon-tiger fighting needling method].

PubMed

Zhao, Feng; Cao, Dong-bo; Yuan, Yi-qin; Luo, Jian; Wen, Yan-yun; Wang, Yue; Yu, Jie

2012-06-01

To compare the difference in the clinical efficacy on nonspecific low back pain (NLBP) treated with the dragon-tiger fighting needling method, the uniform reinforcing-reducing method and the intermediate frequency physiotherapy. Ninety cases of NLBP were randomly divided into a dragon-tiger fighting needling group (group A), an uniform reinforcing-reducing needling group (group B) and an intermediate frequency physiotherapy group (group C), 30 cases in each one. In the group A, the dragon-tiger fighting needling method was used. In the group B, the uniform reinforcing-reducing method was applied. Two groups of acupoints were prescribed. One group included Shenshu (BL 23), Dachangshu (BL 25), Weizhong (BL 40) and Ashi points. The other group included Qihaishu (BL 24), Guanyuanshu (BL 26), Kunlun (BL 60), Yaoyangguan (GV 3). These two groups of acupoints were used alternatively in the above two groups. In the group C, the intermediate frequency physiotherapy was adopted in the pain area of the lumbar region. The treatment was given once per day in each group. Six treatments made one session. Totally, 2 sessions were required. The Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), the Oswestry Disability Index (ODD and the clinical efficacy were observed in each group. The scores of VAS and ODI were reduced obviously after treatment in each group (P < 0.05, P < 0.01). The score reducing in the group A was much more remarkable than those in the other two groups (all P < 0.05). The clinical curative rate was 30.0% (9/30), 23.3% (7/30) and 16.7% (5/30) in the group A, the group B and the group C, respectively. In comparison, the clinical efficacy in the group A was superior to that in either of the other groups (all P< 0.05). The dragon-tiger fighting needling method achieves the much better efficacy on NLBP compared with either the uniform reinforcing-reducing method or the intermediate frequency physiotherapy. It is one of the more effective needling method for analgesia.

Fine-needle aspiration by vacuum tubes.

PubMed

Holmquist, N D

1989-07-01

Fine-needle aspiration of subcutaneous masses, accepted in many parts of Europe and the Americas as a routine diagnostic technique, employs a syringe holder to facilitate the creation of a vacuum to withdraw cells. This investigation demonstrates that a vacuum tube used in venipuncture can be used to supply the negative pressure to suck cells into the needle. This apparatus is more readily available than a syringe holder in hospitals and clinics, and particularly provides the operator with a more dexterous approach to the mass because the fingers holding the needle can be much closer to the mass being immobilized by the other hand.

21 CFR 880.5580 - Acupuncture needle.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 8 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false Acupuncture needle. 880.5580 Section 880.5580 Food and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES (CONTINUED) MEDICAL... the skin in the practice of acupuncture. The device consists of a solid, stainless steel needle. The...

NMR spectroscopic properties (1H at 500 MHz) of deuterated* ribonucleotide-dimers ApU*, GpC*, partially deuterated 2'-deoxyribonucleotide-dimers d(TpA*), d(ApT*), d(GpC*) and their comparison with natural counterparts (1H-NMR window).

PubMed

Földesi, A; Nilson, F P; Glemarec, C; Gioeli, C; Chattopadhyaya, J

1993-02-01

Pure 1'#,2',3',4'#,5',5''-2H6-ribonucleoside derivatives 10-14, 1'#,2',2'',3',4'#,5',5''-2H7-2'-deoxynucleoside blocks 15-18 and their natural-abundance counterparts were used to assemble partially deuterated ribonucleotide-dimers (* indicates deuteration at 1'#,2',3',4'#,5',5''(2H6)): ApU* 21, GpC* 22 and partially deuterated 2'-deoxyribonucleotide-dimers d(TpA*) 23, d(ApT*) 25, d(GpC*) 26 (* indicates deuteration at 1'#,2',2'',3',4'#,5',5''(2H7)) according to the procedure described by Földesi et al. (Tetrahedron, in press). These five partially deuterated oligonucleotides were subsequently compared with their corresponding natural-abundance counterparts by 500 MHz 1H-NMR spectroscopy to evaluate the actual NMR simplifications achieved in the non-deuterated part (1H-NMR window) as a result of specific deuterium incorporation. Detailed one-dimensional 1H-NMR (500 MHz), two-dimensional correlation spectra (DQF-COSY and TOCSY) and deuterium isotope effect on the chemical shifts of oligonucleotides have been presented.

Syringe Sharing Among a Prospective Cohort of Street-Involved Youth: Implications for Needle Distribution Programs.

PubMed

Bozinoff, Nikki; Wood, Evan; Dong, Huiru; Richardson, Lindsey; Kerr, Thomas; DeBeck, Kora

2017-09-01

The sharing of previously used syringes is associated with the transmission of Hepatitis C and HIV. This longitudinal study examines syringe borrowing and syringe lending within a prospective cohort of street-involved youth in Vancouver, Canada. From September 2005 to May 2014, data were collected from the At-Risk Youth Study, a cohort of street-involved youth age 14-26 at enrollment, and analyzed using generalized estimating equations. Among 505 participants, 142 (28.1%) reported syringe borrowing and 132 (26.1%) reported syringe lending during the study period. In separate multivariable analyses, having difficulty finding clean needles and homelessness were significantly associated with syringe borrowing (Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) = 2.28, 95% CI 1.66-3.12 and AOR = 1.52, CI 1.05-2.21, respectively) and syringe lending (AOR = 1.89, 95% CI 1.32-2.71 and AOR = 1.65, 95% CI 1.11-2.44, respectively) (all p values < 0.05). Findings highlight gaps in syringe access for vulnerable young injectors and suggest that service delivery for youth may be suboptimal. Further examination of how needle distribution efforts might be improved to better meet the needs of young people is warranted.

Image-based tracking of the suturing needle during laparoscopic interventions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Speidel, S.; Kroehnert, A.; Bodenstedt, S.; Kenngott, H.; Müller-Stich, B.; Dillmann, R.

2015-03-01

One of the most complex and difficult tasks for surgeons during minimally invasive interventions is suturing. A prerequisite to assist the suturing process is the tracking of the needle. The endoscopic images provide a rich source of information which can be used for needle tracking. In this paper, we present an image-based method for markerless needle tracking. The method uses a color-based and geometry-based segmentation to detect the needle. Once an initial needle detection is obtained, a region of interest enclosing the extracted needle contour is passed on to a reduced segmentation. It is evaluated with in vivo images from da Vinci interventions.

Engineering and exploitation of a fluorescent HIV-1 gp120 for live cell CD4 binding assays

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

Costantini, Lindsey M.; Irvin, Susan C.; Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, 1300 Morris Park Avenue, Bronx, NY 10461

The HIV-1 envelope glycoprotein, gp120, binds the host cell receptor, CD4, in the initial step of HIV viral entry and infection. This process is an appealing target for the development of inhibitory drugs and neutralizing antibodies. To study gp120 binding and intracellular trafficking, we engineered a fluorescent fusion of the humanized gp120 JRFL HIV-1 variant and GFP. Gp120-sfGFP is glycosylated with human sugars, robustly expressed, and secreted from cultured human cells. Protein dynamics, quality control, and trafficking can be visualized in live cells. The fusion protein can be readily modified with different gp120 variants or fluorescent proteins. Finally, secreted gp120-sfGFPmore » enables a sensitive and easy binding assay that can quantitatively screen potential inhibitors of gp120-CD4 binding on live cells via fluorescence imaging or laser scanning cytometry. This adaptable research tool should aid in studies of gp120 cell biology and the development of novel anti-HIV drugs. - Highlights: • Development of fluorescent protein labeled HIV-1 envelope gp120. • Imaging of gp120 dynamics and trafficking in live cells. • Quantitative visual assay of antibody-mediated inhibition of gp120 binding to CD4 on live cells.« less

The effect of SO2 pollution on pine needle structure

Treesearch

E. A. Zhitkova; L. L. Novitskaya

2000-01-01

Fall and winter needles from pines growing near the Kostomuksha oredressing mill (KODM) were collected and studied by light microscopy. Fall needles showed symptoms of SO2 influence and no specific seasonal changes in mesophyll. The injury rates of needle surface and mesophyll showed that pollutants penetrate into the needles through stomata and...

[Case-control study on needle-knife to cut off the medial branch of the lumbar posterior ramus under C-arm guiding for the treatment of low back pain caused by lumbar facet osteoarthritis].

PubMed

Lu, Di; Xu, Wei-xing; Ding, Wei-Guo; Guo, Qiao-Feng; Ma, Gou-ping; Zhu, Wei-min

2013-03-01

To study the clinical efficacy of needle-knife to cut off the medial branch of the lumbar posterior ramus under C-arm guiding to treat low back pain caused by lumbar facet osteoarthritis. From July 2009 to June 2011, 60 patients with low back pain caused by lumbar facet osteoarthritis were reviewed,including 34 males and 26 females, ranging in age from 39 to 73 years old,averaged 61.9 years old; the duration of the disease ranged from 6 to 120 months, with a mean of 18.9 months. All the patients were divided into two groups, 30 patients (18 males and 12 females, ranging in age from 39 to 71 years old, needle-knife group) were treated with needle-knife to cut off medial branch of the lumbar posterior ramus under C -arm guiding and the other 30 patients(16 males and 14 females, ranging in age from 41 to 73 years old, hormone injection group) were treated with hormone injection in lumbar facet joint under C-arm guiding. The preoperative JOA scores and the scores at the 1st, 12th and 26th weeks after treatment were analyzed. Before treatment,the JOA scores between the two groups had no significant difference (P= 0.479); after 1 week of treatment, the JOA scores between the two groups had significant difference (P= 0.040), the improvement rate of hormone injection group was superior than that of the needle-knife group,which were (58.73+/-18.20)% in needle-knife group and (71.10+/-22.19)% in hormone injection group; after 12 weeks of treatment, the JOA scores between the two groups had no significant difference(P=0.569), and the improvement rate between the two groups had no significant difference,which were (50.09+/-19.33)% in the needle-knife group and (48.70+/-18.36)%) in the hormone injection group; after 26 weeks of treatment,the JOA scores between the two groups had significant difference (P=0.000), the improvement rate of hormone injection group was superior than that of the needle-knife group,which were (48.56+/-28.24)% in needle-knife group and (15

Preparation (pulling) of needles for gene delivery by microinjection.

PubMed

Dean, David A

2006-12-01

INTRODUCTIONThis protocol contains methods for pulling microinjection needles using two different models of pipette pullers. The advantage of pulling needles in the laboratory is that a variety of different needle types can be pulled, depending on the samples and cells being injected. An added advantage is cost; once a pipette puller has been purchased, boxes of glass capillaries are inexpensive compared to premade microinjection needles. The advantages to buying preformed and sterilized needles include increased uniformity of needles from one to another, ease of use, high quality, and not having to invest in a pipette puller. The pipette puller models described in this article are the Flaming/Brown Pipette Puller Model P-97 (Sutter) and the PUL-1 Micropipette Puller (World Precision Instruments). The PUL-1 instrument is the less expensive of the two, but it requires more user input, and it cannot be used to pull Femtotip-like microinjection pipettes.

Behavior of Tip-Steerable Needles in ex vivo and in vivo Tissue

PubMed Central

Majewicz, Ann; Marra, Steven P.; van Vledder, Mark G.; Lin, MingDe; Choti, Michael A.; Song, Danny Y.; Okamura, Allison M.

2012-01-01

Robotic needle steering is a promising technique to improve the effectiveness of needle-based clinical procedures, such as biopsies and ablation, by computer-controlled, curved insertions of needles within solid organs. In this paper, we explore the capabilities, challenges, and clinical relevance of asymmetric-tip needle steering though experiments in ex vivo and in vivo tissue. We evaluate the repeatability of needle insertion in inhomogeneous biological tissue and compare ex vivo and in vivo needle curvature and insertion forces. Steerable needles curved more in kidney than in liver and prostate, likely due to differences in tissue properties. Pre-bent needles produced higher insertion forces in liver and more curvature in vivo than ex vivo. When compared to straight stainless steel needles, steerable needles did not cause a measurable increase in tissue damage and did not exert more force during insertion. The minimum radius of curvature achieved by pre-bent needles was 5.23 cm in ex vivo tissue, and 10.4 cm in in vivo tissue. The curvatures achieved by bevel tip needles were negligible for in vivo tissue. The minimum radius of curvature for bevel tip needles in ex vivo tissue was 16.4 cm; however, about half of the bevel tip needles had negligible curvatures. We also demonstrate a potential clinical application of needle steering by targeting and ablating overlapping regions of cadaveric canine liver. PMID:22711767

Diagnostic Ability of Percutaneous Needle Biopsy Immediately After Radiofrequency Ablation for Malignant Lung Tumors: An Initial Experience

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

Hasegawa, Takaaki, E-mail: t-hasegawa@aichi-cc.jp; Kondo, Chiaki; Sato, Yozo

PurposeTo evaluate the safety and diagnostic ability of percutaneous needle biopsy performed immediately after lung radiofrequency ablation (RFA).Materials and MethodsFrom May 2013 to April 2014, percutaneous needle biopsy was performed immediately after RFA for 3 patients (2 men and 1 woman, aged 57–76 years) who had lung tumors measuring 1.3–2.6 cm in diameter. All patients had prior history of malignancy, and all tumors were radiologically diagnosed as malignant. Obtained specimens were pathologically classified using standard hematoxylin and eosin staining.ResultsWe completed three planned sessions of RFA followed by percutaneous needle biopsy, all of which obtained tumor tissue that could be pathologically diagnosed. Twomore » tumors were metastatic from renal clear cell carcinoma and rectal adenocarcinoma, respectively; one tumor was primary lung adenocarcinoma. There was no death or major complication related to the procedures. Although pneumothorax occurred in two patients, these resolved without the need for aspiration or chest tube placement. Tumor seeding was not observed, but 21 months after the procedure, one case developed local tumor progression that was treated by additional RFA.ConclusionPathologic diagnosis was possible by needle biopsy immediately after RFA for lung tumors. This technique may reduce the risks and efforts of performing biopsy and RFA on separate occasions.« less

Is point of access to needles and syringes related to needle sharing? Comparing data collected from pharmacies and needle and syringe programs in south-east Sydney.

PubMed

Bryant, Joanne; Topp, Libby; Hopwood, Max; Iversen, Jenny; Treloar, Carla; Maher, Lisa

2010-07-01

The comprehensive needle and syringe distribution system in New South Wales is partly based on the premise that different points of access to injecting equipment may attract different groups of injecting drug users. This paper examines patterns of equipment acquisition and risk for blood-borne virus transmission among injecting drug users who use pharmacies and needle and syringe programs (NSP) in south-east Sydney. Clients obtaining injecting equipment from four NSP (n = 147) and eight pharmacies (n = 227) in 2006 voluntarily completed a self-administered questionnaire. Respondents were grouped into three categories based on their needle and syringe acquisition patterns: exclusive use of NSP, exclusive use of pharmacies and use of both. Although it was common for respondents to report using both pharmacies and NSP to obtain needles and syringes (57%), a proportion reported exclusive use of pharmacies (17%) and NSP (14%). Exclusive pharmacy users were more likely to have never received treatment for their drug use and the least likely to have had a recent test for hepatitis C. Compared with respondents who exclusively used NSP, respondents who exclusively used pharmacies were more likely to report receptive sharing of injecting equipment (adjusted odds ratio 5.9, 95% confidence interval 2.02-17.14), as were respondents who reported using both sources (adjusted odds ratio 5.8, 95% confidence interval 2.35-14.40). The high prevalence of receptive equipment sharing among pharmacy clients indicates a need to improve access to needles and syringes and ancillary equipment, possibly by including ancillary equipment at no cost in existing pre-packaged pharmacy products.

Master-slave robotic system for needle indentation and insertion.

PubMed

Shin, Jaehyun; Zhong, Yongmin; Gu, Chengfan

2017-12-01

Bilateral control of a master-slave robotic system is a challenging issue in robotic-assisted minimally invasive surgery. It requires the knowledge on contact interaction between a surgical (slave) robot and soft tissues. This paper presents a master-slave robotic system for needle indentation and insertion. This master-slave robotic system is able to characterize the contact interaction between the robotic needle and soft tissues. A bilateral controller is implemented using a linear motor for robotic needle indentation and insertion. A new nonlinear state observer is developed to online monitor the contact interaction with soft tissues. Experimental results demonstrate the efficacy of the proposed master-slave robotic system for robotic needle indentation and needle insertion.

Impact of Leishmania metalloprotease GP63 on macrophage signaling

PubMed Central

Isnard, Amandine; Shio, Marina T.; Olivier, Martin

2012-01-01

The intramacrophage protozoan parasites of Leishmania genus have developed sophisticated ways to subvert the innate immune response permitting their infection and propagation within the macrophages of the mammalian host. Several Leishmania virulence factors have been identified and found to be of importance for the development of leishmaniasis. However, recent findings are now further reinforcing the critical role played by the zinc-metalloprotease GP63 as a virulence factor that greatly influence host cell signaling mechanisms and related functions. GP63 has been found to be involved not only in the cleavage and degradation of various kinases and transcription factors, but also to be the major molecule modulating host negative regulatory mechanisms involving for instance protein tyrosine phosphatases (PTPs). Those latter being well recognized for their pivotal role in the regulation of a great number of signaling pathways. In this review article, we are providing a complete overview about the role of Leishmania GP63 in the mechanisms underlying the subversion of macrophage signaling and functions. PMID:22919663

Impact of Leishmania metalloprotease GP63 on macrophage signaling.

PubMed

Isnard, Amandine; Shio, Marina T; Olivier, Martin

2012-01-01

The intramacrophage protozoan parasites of Leishmania genus have developed sophisticated ways to subvert the innate immune response permitting their infection and propagation within the macrophages of the mammalian host. Several Leishmania virulence factors have been identified and found to be of importance for the development of leishmaniasis. However, recent findings are now further reinforcing the critical role played by the zinc-metalloprotease GP63 as a virulence factor that greatly influence host cell signaling mechanisms and related functions. GP63 has been found to be involved not only in the cleavage and degradation of various kinases and transcription factors, but also to be the major molecule modulating host negative regulatory mechanisms involving for instance protein tyrosine phosphatases (PTPs). Those latter being well recognized for their pivotal role in the regulation of a great number of signaling pathways. In this review article, we are providing a complete overview about the role of Leishmania GP63 in the mechanisms underlying the subversion of macrophage signaling and functions.

IgG Antibody Responses to Recombinant gp120 Proteins, gp70V1/V2 Scaffolds, and a CyclicV2 Peptide in Thai Phase I/II Vaccine Trials Using Different Vaccine Regimens.

PubMed

Karasavvas, Nicos; Karnasuta, Chitraporn; Savadsuk, Hathairat; Madnote, Sirinan; Inthawong, Dutsadee; Chantakulkij, Somsak; Rittiroongrad, Surawach; Nitayaphan, Sorachai; Pitisuttithum, Punnee; Thongcharoen, Prasert; Siriyanon, Vinai; Andrews, Charla A; Barnett, Susan W; Tartaglia, James; Sinangil, Faruk; Francis, Donald P; Robb, Merlin L; Michael, Nelson L; Ngauy, Viseth; de Souza, Mark S; Paris, Robert M; Excler, Jean-Louis; Kim, Jerome H; O'Connell, Robert J

2015-11-01

RV144 correlates of risk analysis showed that IgG antibodies to gp70V1V2 scaffolds inversely correlated with risk of HIV acquisition. We investigated IgG antibody responses in RV135 and RV132, two ALVAC-HIV prime-boost vaccine trials conducted in Thailand prior to RV144. Both trials used ALVAC-HIV (vCP1521) at 0, 1, 3, and 6 months and HIV-1 gp120MNgD and gp120A244gD in alum (RV135) or gp120SF2 and gp120CM235 in MF59 (RV132) at 3 and 6 months. We assessed ELISA binding antibodies to the envelope proteins (Env) 92TH023, A244gD and MNgD, cyclicV2, and gp70V1V2 CaseA2 (subtype B) and 92TH023 (subtype CRF01_AE), and Env-specific IgG1 and IgG3. Antibody responses to gp120 A244gD, MNgD, and gp70V1V2 92TH023 scaffold were significantly higher in RV135 than in RV132. Antibodies to gp70V1V2 CaseA2 were detected only in RV135 vaccine recipients and IgG1 and IgG3 antibody responses to A244gD were significantly higher in RV135. IgG binding to gp70V1V2 CaseA2 and CRF01_AE scaffolds was higher with the AIDSVAX(®)B/E boost but both trials showed similar rates of antibody decline post-vaccination. MF59 did not result in higher IgG antibody responses compared to alum with the antigens tested. However, notable differences in the structure of the recombinant proteins and dosage used for immunizations may have contributed to the magnitude and specificity of IgG induced by the two trials.

[Observation on therapeutic effect of three needling method on piriformis injury syndrome].

PubMed

Yang, Jun-xiong; Zhu, Xiao-yi

2008-03-01

To search for an effective needling method for treatment of piriformis injury syndrome. Eighty-two cases were randomly divided into a three needling group and a routine needling group, 41 cases in each group. The three needling group were treated by acupuncture at Huantiao (GB 30), Yanglingquan (GB 34) and Shenmai (BL 62), with needling shallow, middle and deep layers for Huantiao, Yanglingquan, and after acupuncture massage was given at the Foot-Taiyang Channel and the Foot-Shaoyang Channel on lumbosacral region and the affected foot. The routine needling group were treated by routine needling at Huantiao (GB 30), Juliao (GB 29), Chengfu (BL 36), Yanglingquan (GB 34), massage was given also. Their therapeutic effects were compared. The cured rate was 87.8% in the three needling group and 63.4% in the routine needling group, with a significant difference between the two groups (P < 0.05). The therapeutic effect of three needling method on piriformis injury syndrome is better than that of routine needling.

Geochemical Weathering Increases Lead Bioaccessibility in Semi-Arid Mine Tailings

PubMed Central

Hayes, Sarah M.; Webb, Sam M.; Bargar, John R.; O'Day, Peggy A.; Maier, Raina M.; Chorover, Jon

2012-01-01

Mine tailings can host elevated concentrations of toxic metal(loid)s that represent a significant hazard to surrounding communities and ecosystems. Eolian transport, capable of translocating small (micrometer-sized) particles, can be the dominant mechanism of toxic metal dispersion in arid or semi-arid landscapes. Human exposure to metals can then occur via direct inhalation or ingestion of particulates. The fact that measured doses of total lead (Pb) in geomedia correlate poorly with blood Pb levels highlights a need to better resolve the precise distribution of molecularly-speciated metal-bearing phases in the complex particle mixtures. Species distribution controls bioaccessibility, thereby directly impacting health risk. This study seeks to correlate Pb-containing particle size and mineral composition with lability and bioaccessibility in mine tailings subjected to weathering in a semi-arid environment. We employed X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) and X-ray fluorescence (XRF), coupled with sequential chemical extractions, to study Pb speciation in tailings from the semi-arid Arizona Klondyke State Superfund Site. Representative samples ranging in pH from 2.6 to 5.4 were selected for in-depth study of Pb solid-phase speciation. The principle lead-bearing phase was plumbojarosite (PbFe6(SO4)4(OH)12), but anglesite (PbSO4) and iron oxide-sorbed Pb were also observed. Anglesite, the most bioavailable mineral species of lead identified in this study, was enriched in surficial tailings samples, where Pb concentrations in the clay size fraction were 2–3 times higher by mass relative to bulk. A mobile and bioaccessible Pb phase accumulates in surficial tailings, with a corresponding increase in risk of human exposure to atmospheric particles. PMID:22553941

Torsional Dynamics of Steerable Needles: Modeling and Fluoroscopic Guidance

PubMed Central

Swensen, John P.; Lin, MingDe; Okamura, Allison M.; Cowan, Noah J.

2017-01-01

Needle insertions underlie a diversity of medical interventions. Steerable needles provide a means by which to enhance existing needle-based interventions and facilitate new ones. Tip-steerable needles follow a curved path and can be steered by twisting the needle base during insertion, but this twisting excites torsional dynamics that introduce a discrepancy between the base and tip twist angles. Here, we model the torsional dynamics of a flexible rod—such as a tip-steerable needle—during subsurface insertion and develop a new controller based on the model. The torsional model incorporates time-varying mode shapes to capture the changing boundary conditions inherent during insertion. Numerical simulations and physical experiments using two distinct setups—stereo camera feedback in semi-transparent artificial tissue and feedback control with real-time X-ray imaging in optically opaque artificial tissue— demonstrate the need to account for torsional dynamics in control of the needle tip. PMID:24860026

Transperineal prostate biopsy under magnetic resonance image guidance: a needle placement accuracy study.

PubMed

Blumenfeld, Philip; Hata, Nobuhiko; DiMaio, Simon; Zou, Kelly; Haker, Steven; Fichtinger, Gabor; Tempany, Clare M C

2007-09-01

To quantify needle placement accuracy of magnetic resonance image (MRI)-guided core needle biopsy of the prostate. A total of 10 biopsies were performed with 18-gauge (G) core biopsy needle via a percutaneous transperineal approach. Needle placement error was assessed by comparing the coordinates of preplanned targets with the needle tip measured from the intraprocedural coherent gradient echo images. The source of these errors was subsequently investigated by measuring displacement caused by needle deflection and needle susceptibility artifact shift in controlled phantom studies. Needle placement error due to misalignment of the needle template guide was also evaluated. The mean and standard deviation (SD) of errors in targeted biopsies was 6.5 +/- 3.5 mm. Phantom experiments showed significant placement error due to needle deflection with a needle with an asymmetrically beveled tip (3.2-8.7 mm depending on tissue type) but significantly smaller error with a symmetrical bevel (0.6-1.1 mm). Needle susceptibility artifacts observed a shift of 1.6 +/- 0.4 mm from the true needle axis. Misalignment of the needle template guide contributed an error of 1.5 +/- 0.3 mm. Needle placement error was clinically significant in MRI-guided biopsy for diagnosis of prostate cancer. Needle placement error due to needle deflection was the most significant cause of error, especially for needles with an asymmetrical bevel. (c) 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Dual mode fuel injector with one piece needle valve member

DOEpatents

Lawrence, Keith E.; Hinrichsen, Michael H.; Buckman, Colby

2005-01-18

A fuel injector includes a homogenous charge nozzle outlet set and a conventional nozzle outlet set controlled respectively by inner and outer needle value members. The homogenous charged nozzle outlet set is defined by an outer needle value member that is moveably positioned in an injector body, which defines the conventional nozzle outlet set. The inner needle valve member is positioned in the outer needle valve member. The outer needle valve member is a piece component that includes at least one external guide surface, an external value surface and an internal valve seat.

[Postspinal headache. A comparison of the 24G Sprotte syringe and a 29G Quincke needle].

PubMed

Lim, M; Cross, G D; Sold, M

1992-09-01

A randomised study was performed to compare the frequency of postdural puncture headache in 56 patients who underwent spinal anaesthesia for extra-corporeal shockwave lithotripsy using either a Sprotte 24 G (n = 28) or Vygon 29 G or Quincke type needle (n = 28). Frequency of headache was recorded in a similar group of 28 patients who received general anaesthesia. Dural puncture was easier with the Sprotte 24 G cannula than with the less stable Quincke needle, as documented by a significantly shortened time for insertion of the cannula (4.6 +/- 2.6 vs 8.6 +/- 6.3 min, P less than 0.005). The total frequency of post-operative headache was 57% in the Vygon 29 G group and 25% in the Sprotte 24 G group; 21% of patients in the general anaesthesia group complained of headache. Frequency of postdural puncture headache, classified as being posture-related, was 25% in the 29 G Vygon group, compared with 11% in the 24 G Sprotte group (P = 0.148). When only moderate and severe postdural puncture headache was considered, there was a significant difference (25% vs. 4%; P = 0.026) in favour of the Sprotte cannula. Thus, the 24 G Sprotte needle was at least as effective as the 29 G Vygon needle, and there is a suggestion that the former is more effective in minimising the incidence of moderate or severe postdural puncture headache.

65 nm LP/GP mix low cost platform for multi-media wireless and consumer applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tavel, B.; Duriez, B.; Gwoziecki, R.; Basso, M. T.; Julien, C.; Ortolland, C.; Laplanche, Y.; Fox, R.; Sabouret, E.; Detcheverry, C.; Boeuf, F.; Morin, P.; Barge, D.; Bidaud, M.; Biénacel, J.; Garnier, P.; Cooper, K.; Chapon, J. D.; Trouiller, Y.; Belledent, J.; Broekaart, M.; Gouraud, P.; Denais, M.; Huard, V.; Rochereau, K.; Difrenza, R.; Planes, N.; Marin, M.; Boret, S.; Gloria, D.; Vanbergue, S.; Abramowitz, P.; Vishnubhotla, L.; Reber, D.; Stolk, P.; Woo, M.; Arnaud, F.

2006-04-01

A complete 65 nm CMOS platform, called LP/GP Mix, has been developed employing thick oxide transistor (IO), Low Power (LP) and General Purpose (GP) devices on the same chip. Dedicated to wireless multi-media and consumer applications, this new triple gate oxide platform is low cost (+1mask only) and saves over 35% of dynamic power with the use of the low operating voltage GP. The LP/GP mix shows competitive digital performance with a ring oscillator (FO = 1) speed equal to 7 ps per stage (GP) and 6T-SRAM static power lower than 10 pA/cell (LP). Compatible with mixed-signal design requirements, transistors show high voltage gain, low mismatch factor and low flicker noise. Moreover, to address mobile phone demands, excellent RF performance has been achieved with FT = 160 GHz for LP and 280 GHz for GP nMOS transistors.

Robust path planning for flexible needle insertion using Markov decision processes.

PubMed

Tan, Xiaoyu; Yu, Pengqian; Lim, Kah-Bin; Chui, Chee-Kong

2018-05-11

Flexible needle has the potential to accurately navigate to a treatment region in the least invasive manner. We propose a new planning method using Markov decision processes (MDPs) for flexible needle navigation that can perform robust path planning and steering under the circumstance of complex tissue-needle interactions. This method enhances the robustness of flexible needle steering from three different perspectives. First, the method considers the problem caused by soft tissue deformation. The method then resolves the common needle penetration failure caused by patterns of targets, while the last solution addresses the uncertainty issues in flexible needle motion due to complex and unpredictable tissue-needle interaction. Computer simulation and phantom experimental results show that the proposed method can perform robust planning and generate a secure control policy for flexible needle steering. Compared with a traditional method using MDPs, the proposed method achieves higher accuracy and probability of success in avoiding obstacles under complicated and uncertain tissue-needle interactions. Future work will involve experiment with biological tissue in vivo. The proposed robust path planning method can securely steer flexible needle within soft phantom tissues and achieve high adaptability in computer simulation.

Development and Evaluation of a Novel Curved Biopsy Device for CT-Guided Biopsy of Lesions Unreachable Using Standard Straight Needle Trajectories

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

Schulze-Hagen, Maximilian Franz, E-mail: mschulze@ukaachen.de; Pfeffer, Jochen; Zimmermann, Markus

PurposeTo evaluate the feasibility of a novel curved CT-guided biopsy needle prototype with shape memory to access otherwise not accessible biopsy targets.Methods and MaterialsA biopsy needle curved by 90° with specific radius was designed. It was manufactured using nitinol to acquire shape memory, encased in a straight guiding trocar to be driven out for access of otherwise inaccessible targets. Fifty CT-guided punctures were conducted in a biopsy phantom and 10 CT-guided punctures in a swine corpse. Biposies from porcine liver and muscle tissue were separately gained using the biopsy device, and histological examination was performed subsequently.ResultsMean time for placement ofmore » the trocar and deployment of the inner biopsy needle was ~205 ± 69 and ~93 ± 58 s, respectively, with a mean of ~4.5 ± 1.3 steps to reach adequate biopsy position. Mean distance from the tip of the needle to the target was ~0.7 ± 0.8 mm. CT-guided punctures in the swine corpse took relatively longer and required more biopsy steps (~574 ± 107 and ~380 ± 148 s, 8 ± 2.6 steps). Histology demonstrated appropriate tissue samples in nine out of ten cases (90%).ConclusionsTargets that were otherwise inaccessible via standard straight needle trajectories could be successfully reached with the curved biopsy needle prototype. Shape memory and preformed size with specific radius of the curved needle simplify the target accessibility with a low risk of injuring adjacent structures.« less

Structural analysis of a highly glycosylated and unliganded gp120-based antigen using mass spectrometry†

PubMed Central

Wang, Liwen; Qin, Yali; Ilchenko, Serguei; Bohon, Jen; Shi, Wuxian; Cho, Michael W.; Takamoto, Keiji; Chance, Mark R.

2010-01-01

Structural characterization of the HIV envelope protein gp120 is very important to provide an understanding of the protein's immunogenicity and it's binding to cell receptors. So far, crystallographic structure determination of gp120 with an intact V3 loop (in the absence of CD4 co-receptor or antibody) has not been achieved. The third variable region (V3) of the gp120 is immunodominant and contains glycosylation signatures that are essential for co-receptor binding and viral entry to T-cells. In this study, we characterized the structure of the outer domain of gp120 with an intact V3 loop (gp120-OD8) purified from Drosophila S2 cells utilizing mass spectrometry-based approaches. We mapped the glycosylation sites and calculated glycosylation occupancy of gp120-OD8; eleven sites from fifteen glycosylation motifs were determined as having high mannose or hybrid glycosylation structures. The specific glycan moieties of nine glycosylation sites from eight unique glycopeptides were determined by a combination of ECD and CID MS approaches. Hydroxyl radical-mediated protein footprinting coupled with mass spectrometry analysis was employed to provide detailed information on protein structure of gp120-OD8 by directly identifying accessible and hydroxyl radical-reactive side chain residues. Comparison of gp120-OD8 experimental footprinting data with a homology model derived from the ligated CD4/ gp120-OD8 crystal structure revealed a flexible V3 loop structure where the V3 tip may provide contacts with the rest of the protein while residues in the V3 base remain solvent accessible. In addition, the data illustrate interactions between specific sugar moieties and amino acid side chains potentially important to the gp120-OD8 structure. PMID:20825246

Wind-tunnel Investigation of End-plate Effects of Horizontal Tails on a Vertical Tail Compared with Available Theory

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Murray, Harry E

1946-01-01

A vertical-tail model with stub fuselage was tested in combination with various simulated horizontal tails to determine the effect of horizontal-tail span and location on the aerodynamic characteristics of the vertical tail. Available theoretical data on end-plate effects were collected and presented in the form most suitable for design purposes. Reasonable agreement was obtained between the measured and theoretical end-plate effects of horizontal tails on vertical tails, and the data indicated that the end-plate effect was determined more by the location of the horizontal tail than by the span of the horizontal tail. The horizontal tail gave most end-plate effect when located near either tip of the vertical tail and, when located near the base of the vertical tail, the end-plate effect was increased by moving the horizontal tail rearward.

Needle Decompression of Tension Pneumothorax with Colorimetric Capnography.

PubMed

Naik, Nimesh D; Hernandez, Matthew C; Anderson, Jeff R; Ross, Erika K; Zielinski, Martin D; Aho, Johnathon M

2017-11-01

The success of needle decompression for tension pneumothorax is variable, and there are no objective measures assessing effective decompression. Colorimetric capnography, which detects carbon dioxide present within the pleural space, may serve as a simple test to assess effective needle decompression. Three swine underwent traumatically induced tension pneumothorax (standard of care, n = 15; standard of care with needle capnography, n = 15). Needle thoracostomy was performed with an 8-cm angiocatheter. Similarly, decompression was performed with the addition of colorimetric capnography. Subjective operator assessment of decompression was recorded and compared with true decompression, using thoracoscopic visualization for both techniques. Areas under receiver operating curves were calculated and pairwise comparison was performed to assess statistical significance (P < .05). The detection of decompression by needle colorimetric capnography was found to be 100% accurate (15 of 15 attempts), when compared with thoracoscopic assessment (true decompression). Furthermore, it accurately detected the lack of tension pneumothorax, that is, the absence of any pathologic/space-occupying lesion, in 100% of cases (10 of 10 attempts). Standard of care needle decompression was detected by operators in 9 of 15 attempts (60%) and was detected in 3 of 10 attempts when tension pneumothorax was not present (30%). True decompression, under direct visualization with thoracoscopy, occurred 15 of 15 times (100%) with capnography, and 12 of 15 times (80%) without capnography. Areas under receiver operating curves were 0.65 for standard of care and 1.0 for needle capnography (P = .002). Needle decompression with colorimetric capnography provides a rapid, effective, and highly accurate method for eliminating operator bias for tension pneumothorax decompression. This may be useful for the treatment of this life-threatening condition. Copyright © 2017 American College of Chest Physicians

Design of an actively controlled steerable needle with tendon actuation and FBG-based shape sensing.

PubMed

van de Berg, Nick J; Dankelman, Jenny; van den Dobbelsteen, John J

2015-06-01

This work presents a new steerable needle to facilitate active steering toward predefined target locations. It focuses on mechanical aspects and design choices in relation to the observed response in a tissue phantom. Tip steering with two rotational degrees of freedom was achieved by a tendon actuated ball joint mechanism. During insertion, the flexible cannula bends as a result of asymmetric tip-tissue interaction forces. The stylet was equipped with fiber Bragg gratings to measure the needle shape and tip position during use. A PI-controller was implemented to facilitate steering to predefined targets. During the validation study, nine targets were defined at a depth of 100 mm below the gelatin surface. One was located below the insertion point, the others at a radial offset of 30 mm in each of the eight principle steering directions. Per location, six repetitions were performed. The targeting accuracy was 6.2 ± 1.4 mm (mean ± std). The steering precision was 2.6 ± 1.1 mm. The ability to steer with this new needle steering approach is presented and the mechanical characteristics are discussed for this representative subset of steering directions. Copyright © 2015 IPEM. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Experimental analysis of robot-assisted needle insertion into porcine liver.

PubMed

Wang, Wendong; Shi, Yikai; Goldenberg, Andrew A; Yuan, Xiaoqing; Zhang, Peng; He, Lijing; Zou, Yingjie

2015-01-01

How to improve placement accuracy of needle insertion into liver tissue is of paramount interest to physicians. A robot-assisted system was developed to experimentally demonstrate its advantages in needle insertion surgeries. Experiments of needle insertion into porcine liver tissue were performed with conic tip needle (diameter 8 mm) and bevel tip needle (diameter 1.5 mm) in this study. Manual operation was designed to compare the performance of the presented robot-assisted system. The real-time force curves show outstanding advantages of robot-assisted operation in improving the controllability and stability of needle insertion process by comparing manual operation. The statistics of maximum force and average force further demonstrates robot-assisted operation causes less oscillation. The difference of liver deformation created by manual operation and robot-assisted operation is very low, 1 mm for average deformation and 2 mm for maximum deformation. To conclude, the presented robot-assisted system can improve placement accuracy of needle by stably control insertion process.

The Tail Suspension Test

PubMed Central

Terrillion, Chantelle E.; Piantadosi, Sean C.; Bhat, Shambhu; Gould, Todd D.

2012-01-01

The tail-suspension test is a mouse behavioral test useful in the screening of potential antidepressant drugs, and assessing of other manipulations that are expected to affect depression related behaviors. Mice are suspended by their tails with tape, in such a position that it cannot escape or hold on to nearby surfaces. During this test, typically six minutes in duration, the resulting escape oriented behaviors are quantified. The tail-suspension test is a valuable tool in drug discovery for high-throughput screening of prospective antidepressant compounds. Here, we describe the details required for implementation of this test with additional emphasis on potential problems that may occur and how to avoid them. We also offer a solution to the tail climbing behavior, a common problem that renders this test useless in some mouse strains, such as the widely used C57BL/6. Specifically, we prevent tail climbing behaviors by passing mouse tails through a small plastic cylinder prior to suspension. Finally, we detail how to manually score the behaviors that are manifested in this test. PMID:22315011

Diagenesis of conifer needles in a coastal marine environment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hedges, John I.; Weliky, K.

1989-10-01

Physically intact fir, hemlock and cedar needles were isolated from different horizons of a sediment core from a coastal marine bay (Dabob Bay, Washington State, U.S.A.) and from nearby trees and forest litter. Green fir, hemlock and cedar needles were all characterized by glucose-rich aldose mixtures (~30% of tissue carbon), the production of vanillyl and cinnamyl CuO-derived phenols (~8% of tissue carbon) and the presence of both pinitol and myo-inositol (1-2% of tissue carbon). Needles from forest litter were enriched in lignin phenols and non-glucose aldoses and depleted in glucose and cyclitols. The sediment core contained an average of 10 mg/1 of physically intact fir, hemlock and cedar needles, which occurred in similar relative abundances and accounted for less than 1% of the total nonwoody gymnosperm tissue. Compared to the green and litter counterparts, all sedimentary needles were greatly depleted in cyclitols, glucose and p-coumaric acid and enriched in vanillyl phenol precursors. The degree of elevation of vanillyl phenol yield from the degraded needles was used to estimate minimal carbon losses from the samples, which ranged from near 40% for needle litter to almost 70% for the deepest (~100 years old) sedimentary fir/hemlock samples. Although downcore increases in carbon loss and refractory organic components indicated in situ diagenesis, the bulk of overall degradation occurred either on land or during the first 10-20 years after deposition. Atomic C/N ratios of degraded needles were lower than for green counterparts, but nitrogen was lost overall. These relative changes indicate the following stability series: vanillyl phenols > N > ferulic acid, p-hydroxy phenols, most aldoses and bulk tissue > glucose and p-coumaric acid > cyclitols (near 100% loss). Vanillic acid to vanillin ratios, (Ad/Al)v, of the green fir and hemlock needles were unusually high (0.36-0.38) and decreased downcore. Diagenesis also decreased the cinnamyl/vanillyl phenol ratio

Family effects on the rurality of GP's work location: a longitudinal panel study.

PubMed

McGrail, Matthew R; Russell, Deborah J; O'Sullivan, Belinda G

2017-10-19

Reduced opportunities for children's schooling and spouse's/partner's employment are identified internationally as key barriers to general practitioners (GPs) working rurally. This paper aims to measure longitudinal associations between the rurality of GP work location and having (i) school-aged children and (ii) a spouse/partner in the workforce. Participants included 4377 GPs responding to at least two consecutive annual surveys of the Medicine in Australia: Balancing Employment and Life (MABEL) national longitudinal study between 2008 and 2014. The main outcome, GP work location, was categorised by remoteness and population size. Five sequential binary school-age groupings were defined according to whether a GP had no children, only preschool children (aged 0-4 years), at least one primary-school child (aged 5-11 years), at least one child in secondary school (aged 12-18 years), and all children older than secondary school (aged ≥ 19). Partner in the workforce was defined by whether a GP had a partner who was either currently working or looking for work, or not. Separate generalised estimating equation models, which aggregated consecutive annual observations per GP, tested associations between work location and (i) educational stages and (ii) partner employment, after adjusting for key covariates. Male GPs with children in secondary school were significantly less likely to work rurally (inclusive of > 50 000 regional centres through to the smallest rural towns of < 5000) compared to male GPs with children in primary school. In contrast, female GPs' locations were not significantly associated with the educational stage of their children. Having a partner in the workforce was not associated with work location for male GPs, whereas female GPs with a partner in the workforce were significantly less likely to work in smaller rural/remote communities (< 15 000 population). This is the first systematic, national-level longitudinal study showing that GP

Rooting of needle fascicles from western white pine seedlings

Treesearch

Ramond J. Hoff; Geral I. McDonald

1968-01-01

In one test, 45 out of 318 (14 percent) needle fascicles from 2-year-old seedlings of Pinus monticola Dougl. were rooted. Eight of the needle fascicles produced shoot growth. In another test, 392 out of 742 (53 percent) needle fascicles were rooted, but none of these produced shoot growth.

Endpoint Accuracy in Manual Control of a Steerable Needle.

PubMed

van de Berg, Nick J; Dankelman, Jenny; van den Dobbelsteen, John J

2017-02-01

To study the ability of a human operator to manually correct for errors in the needle insertion path without partial withdrawal of the needle by means of an active, tip-articulated steerable needle. The needle is composed of a 1.32-mm outer-diameter cannula, with a flexure joint near the tip, and a retractable stylet. The bending stiffness of the needle resembles that of a 20-gauge hypodermic needle. The needle functionality was evaluated in manual insertions by steering to predefined targets and a lateral displacement of 20 mm from the straight insertion line. Steering tasks were conducted in 5 directions and 2 tissue simulants under image guidance from a camera. The repeatability in instrument actuations was assessed during 100 mm deep automated insertions with a linear motor. In addition to tip position, tip angles were tracked during the insertions. The targeting error (mean absolute error ± standard deviation) during manual steering to 5 different targets in stiff tissue was 0.5 mm ± 1.1. This variability in manual tip placement (1.1 mm) was less than the variability among automated insertions (1.4 mm) in the same tissue type. An increased tissue stiffness resulted in an increased lateral tip displacement. The tip angle was directly controlled by the user interface, and remained unaffected by the tissue stiffness. This study demonstrates the ability to manually steer needles to predefined target locations under image guidance. Copyright © 2016 SIR. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Research on needle exchange: redefining the agenda.

PubMed Central

Hantman, J. A.

1995-01-01

Researchers studying needle-exchange programs in the United States pursue a two-fold agenda that requires answers to these questions: (1) Do such programs successfully reduce HIV seroprevalence among injecting drug users? (2) Do they promote drug use? Several federal laws and regulations require convincing data on each question before the release of federal funds for needle exchange. Fears that needle exchange promotes drug use are at the core of federal concerns, and these fears are shared by community leaders, scientists, and public health professionals. Nonetheless, the manner in which the "drug use" question has been framed and addressed in scientific research has been given insufficient attention. This article aims to stimulate debate about current research, and restore a focus on HIV prevention, by addressing several methodological, logical, and ethical weaknesses that characterize the scientific inquiry into whether needle exchange promotes drug use. PMID:10101379

Smart surgical needle actuated by shape memory alloys for percutaneous procedures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Konh, Bardia

Background: Majority of cancer interventions today are performed percutaneously using needle-based procedures, i.e. through the skin and soft tissue. Insufficient accuracy using conventional surgical needles motivated researchers to provide actuation forces to the needle's body for compensating the possible errors of surgeons/physicians. Therefore, active needles were proposed recently where actuation forces provided by shape memory alloys (SMAs) are utilized to assist the maneuverability and accuracy of surgical needles. This work also aims to introduce a novel needle insertion simulation to predict the deflection of a bevel tip needle inside the tissue. Methods: In this work first, the actuation capability of a single SMA wire was studied. The complex response of SMAs was investigated via a MATLAB implementation of the Brinson model and verified via experimental tests. The material characteristics of SMAs were simulated by defining multilinear elastic isothermal stress-strain curves. Rigorous experiments with SMA wires were performed to determine the material properties as well as to show the capability of the code to predict a stabilized SMA transformation behavior with sufficient accuracy. The isothermal stress-strain curves of SMAs were simulated and defined as a material model for the Finite Element Analysis of the active needle. In the second part of this work, a three-dimensional finite element (FE) model of the active steerable needle was developed to demonstrate the feasibility of using SMA wires as actuators to bend the surgical needle. In the FE model, birth and death method of defining boundary conditions, available in ANSYS, was used to achieve the pre-strain condition on SMA wire prior to actuation. This numerical model was validated with needle deflection experiments with developed prototypes of the active needle. The third part of this work describes the design optimization of the active using genetic algorithm aiming for its maximum flexibility

Needle free injection technology: A complete insight

PubMed Central

Ravi, Ansh Dev; Sadhna, D; Nagpaal, D; Chawla, L

2015-01-01

Needle free injection technology (NFIT)is an extremely broad concept which include a wide range of drug delivery systems that drive drugs through the skin using any of the forces as Lorentz, Shock waves, pressure by gas or electrophoresis which propels the drug through the skin, virtually nullifying the use of hypodermic needle. This technology is not only touted to be beneficial for the pharma industry but developing world too find it highly useful in mass immunization programmes, bypassing the chances of needle stick injuries and avoiding other complications including those arising due to multiple use of single needle. The NFIT devices can be classified based on their working, type of load, mechanism of drug delivery and site of delivery. To administer a stable, safe and an effective dose through NFIT, the sterility, shelf life and viscosity of drug are the main components which should be taken care of. Technically superior needle-free injection systems are able to administer highly viscous drug products which cannot be administered by traditional needle and syringe systems, further adding to the usefulness of the technology. NFIT devices can be manufactured in a variety of ways; however the widely employed procedure to manufacture it is by injection molding technique. There are many variants of this technology which are being marketed, such as Bioject® ZetaJetTM, Vitajet 3, Tev-Tropin® and so on. Larger investment has been made in developing this technology with several devices already being available in the market post FDA clearance and a great market worldwide. PMID:26682189

Complications after LP related to needle type: pencil-point versus Quincke.

PubMed

Aamodt, A; Vedeler, C

2001-06-01

We studied the incidence of complications after diagnostic lumbar puncture (LP) related to needle type. A 5 months' observational study of routine diagnostic LP in 83 patients was conducted. Significantly more headache was observed after LP using thicker cutting needles (20G Quincke) compared with thinner cutting or non-cutting needles (22G Quincke or pencil-point). No significant difference in complications after LP was found between the 22G Quincke and pencil-point needles. The size of the needle and not the needle shape seems to be the main determinant for post-dural puncture headache (PDPH).

The glycan-mediated mechanism on the interactions of gp120 with CD4 and antibody: Insights from molecular dynamics simulation.

PubMed

Zhang, Yan; Niu, Yuzhen; Tian, Jiaqi; Liu, Xuewei; Yao, Xiaojun; Liu, Huanxiang

2017-12-01

N-linked glycans such as 234 and 276 gp 120 glycans are vital components of HIV evasion from humoral immunity and important for HIV-1 neutralization of many broadly neutralizing antibodies (bNAbs). However, it is unknown the action mechanism of two glycans. To investigate the roles of the glycans on the interactions of gp120 with CD4 and antibody, molecular dynamic simulations based on gp120-CD4-8ANC195 complex with 234 and 276 gp 120 glycans, 234 gp 120 glycan, 276 gp 120 glycan, and without glycan were performed. Our results reveal that 276 gp 120 glycan can enhance gp120-CD4 and gp120-antibody interactions through the formation of hydrogen bonds of the glycan with CD4 and antibody and make the binding interface of gp120, CD4 and antibody stable; 234 gp 120 glycan primarily reinforces gp120-antibody interactions and weakly affects gp120-CD4 interactions as it mainly lies between gp120 and antibody. The co-operating of two glycans can enhance gp120-CD4 and gp120-antibody associations. Through the structural analysis, it can be seen that 234 gp 120 glycan leads to moving upward of two glycans and the variable region of heavy chain, which is favorable for the interactions of gp120 with CD4 and antibody. The information obtained in this study can provide the guidance for design vaccines and small molecule inhibitors. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Distinct Stabilities of the Structurally Homologous Heptameric Co-Chaperonins GroES and gp31

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dyachenko, Andrey; Tamara, Sem; Heck, Albert J. R.

2018-05-01

The GroES heptamer is the molecular co-chaperonin that partners with the tetradecamer chaperonin GroEL, which assists in the folding of various nonnative polypeptide chains in Escherichia coli. Gp31 is a structural and functional analogue of GroES encoded by the bacteriophage T4, becoming highly expressed in T4-infected E. coli, taking over the role of GroES, favoring the folding of bacteriophage proteins. Despite being slightly larger, gp31 is quite homologous to GroES in terms of its tertiary and quaternary structure, as well as in its function and mode of interaction with the chaperonin GroEL. Here, we performed a side-by-side comparison of GroES and gp31 heptamer complexes by (ion mobility) tandem mass spectrometry. Surprisingly, we observed quite distinct fragmentation mechanisms for the GroES and gp31 heptamers, whereby GroES displays a unique and unusual bimodal charge distribution in its released monomers. Not only the gas-phase dissociation but also the gas-phase unfolding of GroES and gp31 were found to be very distinct. We rationalize these observations with the similar discrepancies we observed in the thermal unfolding characteristics and surface contacts within GroES and gp31 in the solution. From our data, we propose a model that explains the observed simultaneous dissociation pathways of GroES and the differences between GroES and gp31 gas-phase dissociation and unfolding. We conclude that, although GroES and gp31 exhibit high homology in tertiary and quaternary structure, they are quite distinct in their solution and gas-phase (un)folding characteristics and stability. [Figure not available: see fulltext.

Subsequent Breast Cancer Risk Following Diagnosis of Atypical Ductal Hyperplasia on Needle Biopsy.

PubMed

Menes, Tehillah S; Kerlikowske, Karla; Lange, Jane; Jaffer, Shabnam; Rosenberg, Robert; Miglioretti, Diana L

2017-01-01

Atypical ductal hyperplasia (ADH) is a known risk factor for breast cancer. Published risk estimates are based on cohorts that included women whose ADH was diagnosed before widespread use of screening mammograms and did not differentiate between the methods used to diagnose ADH, which may be related to the size of the ADH focus. These risks may overestimate the risk in women with presently diagnosed ADH. To examine the risk of invasive cancer associated with ADH diagnosed using core needle biopsy vs excisional biopsy. A cohort study was conducted comparing the 10-year cumulative risk of invasive breast cancer in 955 331 women undergoing mammography with and without a diagnosis of ADH. Data were obtained from 5 breast imaging registries that participate in the National Cancer Institute-funded Breast Cancer Surveillance Consortium. Diagnosis of ADH on core needle biopsy or excisional biopsy in women undergoing mammography. Ten-year cumulative risk of invasive breast cancer. The sample included 955 331 women with 1727 diagnoses of ADH, 1058 (61.3%) of which were diagnosed by core biopsy and 635 (36.8%) by excisional biopsy. The mean (interquartile range) age of the women at diagnosis was 52.6 (46.9-60.4) years. From 1996 to 2012, the proportion of ADH diagnosed by core needle biopsy increased from 21% to 77%. Ten years following a diagnosis of ADH, the cumulative risk of invasive breast cancer was 2.6 (95% CI, 2.0-3.4) times higher than the risk in women with no ADH. Atypical ductal hyperplasia diagnosed via excisional biopsy was associated with an adjusted hazard ratio (HR) of 3.0 (95% CI, 2-4.5) and, via core needle biopsy, with an adjusted HR of 2.2 (95% CI, 1.5-3.4). Ten years after an ADH diagnosis, an estimated 5.7% (95% CI, 4.3%-10.1%) of the women had a diagnosis of invasive cancer. Women with ADH diagnosed on excisional biopsy had a slightly higher risk (6.7%; 95% CI, 3.0%-12.8%) compared with those with ADH diagnosed via core needle biopsy (5%; 95% CI, 2

Recovering Infectious HIV from Novel Syringe-Needle Combinations with Low Dead Space Volumes.

PubMed

Abdala, Nadia; Patel, Amisha; Heimer, Robert

This study determines if detachable syringe-needle combinations redesigned to reduce their dead space volume may substantially reduce the burden of exposure to infectious HIV among people who inject drugs. Two novel, low dead space (LDS) syringe-needle designs-one added a piston to the plunger (LDS syringe) and the other added a filler to the needle (LDS needle) to reduce their dead space-were compared to standard detachable needle-syringe combinations and to syringes with fixed needles. LDS and standard syringes attached to LDS and standard needles of 23-, 25-, and 27-gauge size were contaminated with HIV-infected blood in the laboratory. The proportion of syringe-needle combinations containing infectious HIV was analyzed after syringes were (1) stored up to 7 days at 22°C or (2) rinsed with water. Detachable syringes attached to 25-gauge needles yielded comparable proportions of syringes with infectious HIV, whether the needle was standard or LDS. Among needles of greater diameter (23 gauge), LDS needles tended to reduce recoverable HIV to a greater extent than standard needles. Syringes with fixed needles showed superior results to LDS syringes attached to needles of equivalent diameter and were less likely to get clogged by blood. Detachable LDS syringe-needle designs must be recommended with caution since they still pose potential risk for HIV transmission. Distribution of LDS syringes and needles must be accompanied by recommendations and instructions for their proper rinsing and disinfection in order to reduce viral burden and chances of needle clogging.

A comparison of the Cook single lumen immature ovum IVM needle to the Steiner-Tan pseudo double lumen flushing needle for oocyte retrieval for IVM.

PubMed

Rose, B I; Laky, D

2013-06-01

This study compared the impact of using the Steiner-Tan pseudo double lumen needle for antral follicle oocyte retrieval to using a conventional non-flushing needle. The Steiner-Tan needle has a much smaller dead space than the needles commonly used for IVM oocyte retrievals. This was a retrospective cohort study. The patient population was determined by the time period in which a patient underwent IVM in a single physician's IVF practice. The following data was abstracted from clinical and embryology records: oocytes retrieved, oocytes matured, early maturing oocytes, oocytes fertilized, embryo quality measures, retrieval time, needle punctures, clot formation, and clinical pregnancy rate. The Steiner-Tan needle did not increase the number of oocytes retrieved. It also did not increase the time required for retrieval. However, flushing of antral follicles significantly decreased clot formation in fluid aspirates. Use of the Steiner-Tan needle also significantly decreased the number of vaginal needle punctures during each case. There was a trend toward improved embryo quality, but statistical power was inadequate to show a difference. The primary benefit of the Steiner-Tan needle was on the embryological aspects of IVM. Decreased blood and blood clots in the aspirates made an IVM retrieval more like conventional IVF for the embryologist. The patient also experienced less tissue trauma without increasing anesthesia or surgical time. There was no improvement in the number of oocytes retrieved, but based on the results, we hypothesized that oocytes were more commonly retrieved from slightly large follicles than when using a routine needle.

Limited retention of micro-organisms using commercialized needle filters.

PubMed

Elbaz, W; McCarthy, G; Mawhinney, T; Goldsmith, C E; Moore, J E

2015-03-01

A study was undertaken to compare a commercialized needle filter with a 0.2-μm filtered epidural set and a non-filtered standard needle. No culturable bacteria were detected following filtration through the 0.2-μm filter. Bacterial breakthrough was observed with the filtered needle (pore size 5 μm) and the non-filtered needle. Filtered systems (0.2 μm) should be employed to achieve total bacterial retention. This highlights that filtration systems with different pore sizes will have varying ability to retain bacteria. Healthcare professionals need to know what type/capability of filter is implied on labels used by manufacturers, and to assess whether the specification has the desired functionality to prevent bacterial translocation through needles. Copyright © 2015 The Healthcare Infection Society. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

A novel curvature-controllable steerable needle for percutaneous intervention.

PubMed

Bui, Van Khuyen; Park, Sukho; Park, Jong-Oh; Ko, Seong Young

2016-08-01

Over the last few decades, flexible steerable robotic needles for percutaneous intervention have been the subject of significant interest. However, there still remain issues related to (a) steering the needle's direction with less damage to surrounding tissues and (b) increasing the needle's maximum curvature for better controllability. One widely used approach is to control the fixed-angled bevel-tip needle using a "duty-cycle" algorithm. While this algorithm has shown its applicability, it can potentially damage surrounding tissue, which has prevented the widespread adoption of this technology. This situation has motivated the development of a new steerable flexible needle that can change its curvature without axial rotation, while at the same time producing a larger curvature. In this article, we propose a novel curvature-controllable steerable needle. The proposed robotic needle consists of two parts: a cannula and a stylet with a bevel-tip. The curvature of the needle's path is controlled by a control offset, defined by the offset between the bevel-tip and the cannula. As a result, the necessity of rotating the whole needle's body is decreased. The duty-cycle algorithm is utilized to a limited degree to obtain a larger radius of curvature, which is similar to a straight path. The first prototype of 0.46 mm (outer diameter) was fabricated and tested with both in vitro gelatin phantom and ex vivo cow liver tissue. The maximum curvatures measured 0.008 mm(-1) in 6 wt% gelatin phantom, 0.0139 mm(-1) in 10 wt% gelatin phantom, and 0.0038 mm(-1) in cow liver. The experimental results show a linear relationship between the curvature and the control offset, which can be utilized for future implementation of this control algorithm. © IMechE 2016.

Cadaveric validation of dry needle placement in the lateral pterygoid muscle.

PubMed

Mesa-Jiménez, Juan A; Sánchez-Gutiérrez, Jesús; de-la-Hoz-Aizpurua, José L; Fernández-de-las-Peñas, César

2015-02-01

The aim of this anatomical study was to determine if a needle is able to reach the lateral pterygoid muscle during the application of dry needling technique. A dry needling approach using 2 needles of 50 to 60 mm in length, one inserted over the zygomatic process posterior at the obituary arch (for the superior head) and other inserted below the zygomatic process between the mandibular condyle and the coronoid process (for the inferior head), was proposed. A progressive dissection into 3 stages was conducted into 2 heads of fresh male cadavers. First, dry needling of the lateral pterygoid muscle was applied on the cadaver. Second, a block dissection containing the lateral pterygoid was harvested. Finally, the ramus of the mandible was sectioned by osteotomy to visualize the lateral pterygoid muscle with the needle placements. With the needles inserted into the cadaver, the block dissection revealed that the superior needle reached the superior (sphenoid) head of the lateral pterygoid muscle and the inferior needle reached the inferior (pterygoid) head of the muscle. At the final stage of the dissection, when the ramus of the mandible was sectioned by osteotomy, it was revealed that the superior needle entered into the belly of the superior head of the lateral pterygoid muscle. This anatomical study supports that dry needling technique for the lateral pterygoid muscle can be properly conducted with the proposed approach. Copyright © 2015 National University of Health Sciences. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Infrared needle mapping to assist biopsy procedures and training.

PubMed

Shar, Bruce; Leis, John; Coucher, John

2018-04-01

A computed tomography (CT) biopsy is a radiological procedure which involves using a needle to withdraw tissue or a fluid specimen from a lesion of interest inside a patient's body. The needle is progressively advanced into the patient's body, guided by the most recent CT scan. CT guided biopsies invariably expose patients to high dosages of radiation, due to the number of scans required whilst the needle is advanced. This study details the design of a novel method to aid biopsy procedures using infrared cameras. Two cameras are used to image the biopsy needle area, from which the proposed algorithm computes an estimate of the needle endpoint, which is projected onto the CT image space. This estimated position may be used to guide the needle between scans, and results in a reduction in the number of CT scans that need to be performed during the biopsy procedure. The authors formulate a 2D augmentation system which compensates for camera pose, and show that multiple low-cost infrared imaging devices provide a promising approach.

Characterisation of gp34, a GPI-anchored protein expressed by schizonts of Theileria parva and T. annulata

PubMed Central

Xue, Gondga; von Schubert, Conrad; Hermann, Pascal; Peyer, Martina; Maushagen, Regina; Schmuckli-Maurer, Jacqueline; Bütikofer, Peter; Langsley, Gordon; Dobbelaere, Dirk A.E.

2010-01-01

Using bioinformatics tools, we searched the predicted Theileria annulata and T. parva proteomes for putative schizont surface proteins. This led to the identification of gp34, a GPI-anchored protein that is stage-specifically expressed by schizonts of both Theileria species and is downregulated upon induction of merogony. Transfection experiments in HeLa cells showed that the gp34 signal peptide and GPI anchor signal are also functional in higher eukaryotes. Epitope-tagged Tp-gp34, but not Ta-gp34, expressed in the cytosol of COS-7 cells was found to localise to the central spindle and midbody. Overexpression of Tp-gp34 and Ta-gp34 induced cytokinetic defects and resulted in accumulation of binucleated cells. These findings suggest that gp34 could contribute to important parasite–host interactions during host cell division. PMID:20381541

21 CFR 882.4650 - Neurosurgical suture needle.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 8 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false Neurosurgical suture needle. 882.4650 Section 882.4650 Food and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES (CONTINUED) MEDICAL DEVICES NEUROLOGICAL DEVICES Neurological Surgical Devices § 882.4650 Neurosurgical suture needle...

21 CFR 882.4650 - Neurosurgical suture needle.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 8 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Neurosurgical suture needle. 882.4650 Section 882.4650 Food and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES (CONTINUED) MEDICAL DEVICES NEUROLOGICAL DEVICES Neurological Surgical Devices § 882.4650 Neurosurgical suture needle...

21 CFR 868.5090 - Emergency airway needle.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 8 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false Emergency airway needle. 868.5090 Section 868.5090 Food and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES (CONTINUED) MEDICAL DEVICES ANESTHESIOLOGY DEVICES Therapeutic Devices § 868.5090 Emergency airway needle. (a...

21 CFR 868.5090 - Emergency airway needle.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 8 2013-04-01 2013-04-01 false Emergency airway needle. 868.5090 Section 868.5090 Food and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES (CONTINUED) MEDICAL DEVICES ANESTHESIOLOGY DEVICES Therapeutic Devices § 868.5090 Emergency airway needle. (a...

21 CFR 868.5150 - Anesthesia conduction needle.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 8 2013-04-01 2013-04-01 false Anesthesia conduction needle. 868.5150 Section 868.5150 Food and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES (CONTINUED) MEDICAL DEVICES ANESTHESIOLOGY DEVICES Therapeutic Devices § 868.5150 Anesthesia conduction needle. (a...

21 CFR 868.5090 - Emergency airway needle.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 8 2012-04-01 2012-04-01 false Emergency airway needle. 868.5090 Section 868.5090 Food and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES (CONTINUED) MEDICAL DEVICES ANESTHESIOLOGY DEVICES Therapeutic Devices § 868.5090 Emergency airway needle. (a...

21 CFR 868.5150 - Anesthesia conduction needle.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 8 2012-04-01 2012-04-01 false Anesthesia conduction needle. 868.5150 Section 868.5150 Food and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES (CONTINUED) MEDICAL DEVICES ANESTHESIOLOGY DEVICES Therapeutic Devices § 868.5150 Anesthesia conduction needle. (a...

21 CFR 868.5090 - Emergency airway needle.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 8 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Emergency airway needle. 868.5090 Section 868.5090 Food and Drugs FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES (CONTINUED) MEDICAL DEVICES ANESTHESIOLOGY DEVICES Therapeutic Devices § 868.5090 Emergency airway needle. (a...

Lessons from the GP-B Experience for Future Fundamental Physics Missions in Space

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)