Needle optimization

Among a number of approaches to the calculation of the global minimum, we mention the needle optimization and the method of quadratic programming [153]. The needle optimization obtained its name because it is based on a procedure of introducing a Dirac function ( needle ) into the refractive index profile and thus... 

By focusing the discussion on valve and control options, it s easy to forget a critical component in benchtop dispensing — the needle. Optimizing precision dispensing capabilities of rotary valves in automated applications requires precision metal dispensing needles. Needles are available with internal diameters of 0.102 to 1.6 mm. 

Bioluminescence in vitro chemosensitivity assays are now used to assess the sensitivity of tumor cells (obtained by surgical or needle biopsy) to different dmgs and combinations of dmgs. Cells are grown in microwell plates in the presence of the dmgs at various concentrations. If the tumor cells are sensitive to the dmg then they do not grow, hence total extracted cellular ATP, measured using the bioluminescence firefly luciferase reaction, is low. This method has been used to optimize therapy for different soHd tumors and for leukemias (306). 

MONITORING DRUGS GIVEN INTRAVENOUSLY. For optimal results, die nurse inspects the needle site and die area around die needle every hour for signs of extravasation of die IV fluid. The nurse performs diese assessments more frequently if the patient is restiess or uncooperative It is important to check the rate of infusion every 15 minutes and adjust it as needed. The nurse should inspect die vein used for die IV infusion every 4 hours for signs of tenderness, pain, and redness (which may indicate phlebitis or thrombophlebitis). If tiiese are apparent, die nurse must restart the IV in another vein and bring the problem to the attention of the primary health care provider. 

Optimal use of epinephrine autoinjectors for first-aid treatment of anaphylaxis in community settings is hampered by several issues. In most countries, these include the availability of only two pre-measured epinephrine doses and only a few different needle lengths, and the need to replace outdated autoinjectors at 12- to 18-month intervals due to degradation of the epinephrine solution they contain. 

Insulin pump therapy consists of a programmable infusion device that allows for basal infusion of insulin 24 hours daily, as well as bolus administration following meals. As seen in Fig. 40-3, an insulin pump consists of a programmable infusion device with an insulin reservoir. This pump is attached to an infusion set with a small needle that is inserted in subcutaneous tissue in the patient s abdomen, thigh, or arm. Most patients prefer insertion in abdominal tissue because this site provides optimal insulin absorption. Patients should avoid insertion sites along belt lines or in other areas where clothing may cause undue irritation. Infusion sets should be changed every 2 to 3 days to reduce the possibility of infection. 

The multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) conditions for each analyte were optimized by infusing 0.1 jxglmL of analyte in mobile phase. The Ionspray needle was maintained at 4.0 kV and the turbo gas temperature was 650°C. Nebulizing gas, auxiliary gas, curtain gas, and collision gas flows were set at 35, 35,40, and 4, respectively. In the MRM mode, collision energies of 17,16, and 15 eV... 

The advantages of MAE are short extraction times (10 min), extraction of many samples at one time (up to 14, depending on the system), and less organic solvent consumed. In one recent study [29], MAE was used to extract paclitaxel from Iranian yew trees. The needles of the tree were air-dried and ground. The needles were covered with methanol-water and placed in the MAE apparatus. Extractions took 9-16 min. The extracts were filtered and analyzed by HPLC. Further optimization of the method resulted in less than 10% RSDs for precision and greater than 87% recovery. The overall benefits of the MAE method are reduced extraction times (15-20 min versus 17 h), minimal sample handling, and 75-80% reduction in solvent consumption [29]. 

BPE-phenytoin donor or phenytoin in a sample is bound by biotinylated antiphenytoin antibody. The donor is quenched by a Texas Red-avidin acceptor. The assembly is small enough to fit into a 23-gauge needle. Cycle time is from 5 to 30 min, with excellent reproducibility. The sensor has been further optimized and the reagents have been characterized by the determination of association and dissociation constants/120, 121) Intact antibody as well as Fab fragments are used, resulting in a sensor which responds well over the clinically useful concentration range of phenytoin. 

---