text:
Blood samples can be collected without substantial contamination from ambient air, such that the blood sample may be analyzed accurately for gaseous components such as oxygen and carbon dioxide. An embodiment of the device has integrated actuation, lancing, and sample acquisition components, which in some embodiments are miniaturized and/or disposable.
1. A device for collecting blood from the skin of a patient, the device comprising
a housing having a sampling site, the sampling site defining an opening and having a concave depression,
a lancet having a lancet tip adjacent the opening, and
a lancet driver operably disposed to the lancet to drive the lancet tip through the opening to lance the skin when the lancet driver is actuated,
a sample acquisition module that includes the lancet, a sample chamber and a biosensor, the sample acquisition module being removably coupled to the lancet driver to provide that the sample acquisition module is disposable and the lancet driver is reusable;
a manually adjustable penetrating member depth selector positioned at an exterior of the housing, wherein the penetrating member depth selector allows user selection of one of several penetration depth settings to limit penetrating depth of the lancet;
the device being configured to allow actuation of the lancet driver, lancing of the skin, collection of the blood, and movement of the blood to the sample reservoir to be integrated.
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16. A device for collecting blood from the skin of a patient, the device comprising:
a housing having a sampling site, the sampling site defining an opening and having a concave depression;
a lancet having a lancet tip adjacent the opening;
a lancet driver operably disposed to the lancet to drive the lancet tip through the opening to lance the skin when the lancet driver is actuated;
a sample acquisition module that includes the lancet, a sample chamber and a biosensor, the sample acquisition module being removably coupled to the lancet driver to provide that the sample acquisition module is disposable and the lancet driver is reusable;
a manually adjustable penetrating member depth selector positioned at an exterior of the housing;
the device being configured to allow actuation of the lancet driver, lancing of the skin, collection of the blood, and movement of the blood to the sample reservoir to be integrated and;
at least one capillary channel in fluid communication with the opening and the sample reservoir, the capillary channel having a surface, at least a portion of the capillary channel surface being hydrophilic, wherein the sample reservoir comprises a chamber in fluid communication with the opening, the chamber having a perimeter, and a flexible diaphragm attached to the perimeter of the chamber, the flexible diaphragm capable of moving within the chamber under the influence of a pressure source, said movement of the diaphragm serving to facilitate transport of the blood through the at least one capillary channel.
Biochemical analysis of blood samples is an important diagnostic tool for determination of patient status. Analysis of a blood sample for glucose level can provide a powerful tool for diabetics who require tight control of blood glucose levels in an effort to minimize the deleterious long-term effects of the disease. At this time, noninvasive blood analysis technology does not provide the accuracy and specificity required for clinical testing, so that test samples are mainly derived from blood, interstitial fluid, urine or saliva Many point of care tests are performed directly on capillary whole blood, which is typically obtained by making a small incision on a finger using a hand-held lancing device. The hand-held lancing device usually includes a lancet that is rapidly displaced to penetrate the finger, creating a small wound from which a blood droplet forms on the surface of the skin after the lancet has retracted from the incision. Generally the blood droplet is placed on a sample assay strip, and the sample assay strip is analyzed using a measurement device.
The process of acquiring and testing a blood sample using these conventional devices can be painful and often involves numerous steps, the outcome of which is to reduce patient compliance with the frequent self testing regimens required for disease management. In addition to the pain and the paraphernalia required for self-testing, the success rate of obtaining an adequate blood sample is not 100%. The success rate can be affected by the reproducibility of the lancing technique used (due to variation in skin hydration and thickness, calluses, etc.) as well as the ability to obtain the blood droplet from the incision. Current industry standard lancet and lancing devices can have as low as a 50% success rate in generating a blood sample from the fingertip. The diabetic wishing to adhere to the optimal 5-6 times a day self testing regimen would, in essence, need to lance themselves an average of 10-12 times just to obtain the blood samples required. The more successful lancing devices are, in reality, about 80-90% successful.
What has been needed is an improved method for sampling and analyzing bodily fluid which is seamless and cost-efficient resulting in a simplified procedure for extraction and analysis of blood samples at the patient's side.
Embodiments of the invention allow acquisition of the blood sample seamlessly, that is, without substantial contamination from ambient air, such that the blood sample may be analyzed accurately for gaseous components such as oxygen and carbon dioxide. Embodiments of the invention have integrated actuation, lancing, and sample acquisition components, which can optionally be miniaturized and/or disposable. Sampled blood can be acquired and transported to an analysis or storage device without substantial contamination by ambient air.
Embodiments of the disposable sample acquisition module can collect a sample in an integrated fashion. In the operation of some embodiments, a finger of the user is placed on the sampling site, where the finger remains throughout the integrated lancing and sample collection process.
In certain embodiments of the invention, in order to facilitate adequate sample volume for analysis, three approaches are described, of which a single approach might be used, or any two or all three approaches may be used in concert. The first approach describes a surface treatment of the support material to engender a difference in wetting ability. The second describes an active pumping device in addition to capillary forces for drawing the blood into the sample reservoir and for dispensing blood from the reservoir to additional sites. The third includes the use of a device which compensates for an inadequate sample volume in the first sample reservoir by isolating the first sample reservoir and triggering a second lancing and acquisition step to fill a second "back-up" sample reservoir.
One embodiment of the invention is directed to a miniature lancing and blood sampling device. Analysis of small blood volumes (less than about one milliliter) is achieved by the collection and the transportation of the blood micro sample to sample storage area or analytical sites. Sampled blood can be transported reliably and without excessive turbulence, cavitation or damage to the cellular components. Furthermore, analyte detection is achieved via the blood samples reliably reaching and saturating the appropriate test sites. Embodiments of the invention provide techniques for extracting a sample of human blood for the measurement of one or more of its constituents, such as might be used for routine monitoring of a chronic condition such as diabetes mellitus. The techniques of embodiments of the present invention simplify the extraction and transfer of the blood sample, and reduce the inconvenience of the process. The techniques can be advantageously used in, for example, blood glucose monitoring as explained above.
The objects, advantages and features of this invention will be more readily appreciated from the following detailed description, when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawing, in which:
Patents U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,030,059, 3,626,929, 4,360,016, 4,608,997, 4,622,974, 4,627,445, 4,637,403, 4,648,408, 4,653,513, 4,873,993, 4,883,068, 4,895,147, 4,920,977, 5,047,044, 5,871,494, 5,971,941 and WO 97/42882 are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety herein.
Further aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may become readily apparent through practice of the invention. It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive of the invention, as claimed.
"Integrated" as used herein means that two or more functions are conducted without intervention by the user: the "integrated" housing contains the mechanism for a plurality of functions, e.g., reproducible lancing, blood sample storage, and (optionally) analysis, the combination of functions occurring as the result a single initiating act by the user (i.e. each function does not have to be separately initiated). The "initiating act" is an action performed by the user which results in a plurality of actions (e.g. blood collection, storage, and analysis) being performed by the blood sampling device without further action required of the user. In the context of a combined lancet driver/sample acquisition module, integrated means that actuation of the lancet driver, lancing of the skin, and sample collection and storage all may occur as the result of a single simple motion (the initiating act) by the user, such as pressing the device against the skin to be sampled. In the context of a sample acquisition module which is configured to be disposable and attached to a reusable lancet driver during use, integrated means that lancing of the skin, sample collection, and sample storage all may occur as the result of a single simple motion by the user, such as pressing the device against the skin to be sampled. If a device is "configured to allow integrated steps A, B, and C", then steps A, B, and C all follow as a result of a single initiating action. "Reproducible" in this context means that the lancing is controlled, having adjustable depth, preload force, and (optionally) opportunity for multiple lancing to assure a sufficient blood sample is obtained: "Preload force" is a measure of the amount of force which must be applied to the skin of the user by the apparatus before triggering the firing of the lancet, and "adjustable preload force" allows the user to select the amount of preload force, in such a manner that the selected amount of preload force will be consistently applied in each successive use of the apparatus unless the user re-adjusts the preload force setting.
"Seamless" as used herein means without substantial exposure to contaminating air: "seamless sampling" thus includes obtaining a blood sample, storing the sample, and (optionally) subjecting the blood sample to analysis without substantial contamination from ambient air. "Substantially" or "substantial" in this context means that the analysis results obtained from the blood sample according to the method or using the apparatus described herein do not deviate by more than about 10%, more preferably 5%, from analysis results obtained using methods that are conventional in the art for analyzing blood samples without contamination from ambient air. "Optional" or "optionally" means that the subsequently described circumstance may or may not occur, so that the description includes instances where the circumstance occurs and instances where it does not. For example, if a device optionally contains a feature for analyzing a blood sample, this means that the analysis feature may or may not be present, and, thus, the description includes structures wherein a device possesses the analysis feature and structures wherein the analysis feature is not present.
"Testing means" refers to any use, singly or in combination, of chemical test reagents and methods, electrical test circuits and methods, physical test components and methods, optical test components and methods, and biological test reagents and methods to yield information about a blood sample. Such methods are well mown in the art and may be based on teachings of, e.g. Tietz Textbook of Clinical Chemistry, 3d Ed., Sec. V, pp. 776-78 (Burtis & Ashwood, Eds., W. B. Saunders Company, Philadelphia, 1999); U.S. Pat. No. 5,997,817 to Chrismore et al. (Dec. 1, 1999); U.S. Pat. No. 5,059,394 to Phillips et al. (Oct. 22, 1991); U.S. Pat. No. 5,001,054 to Wagner et al. (Mar. 19, 1991); and U.S. Pat. No. 4,392,933 to Nakamura et al. (Jul. 12, 1983), the teachings of which are hereby incorporated by reference, as well as others. The testing means may include sensors in the sample reservoir which test electrochemical properties of the blood, or they may include optical means for sensing optical properties of the blood (e.g. oxygen saturation level), or they may include biochemical reagents (e.g. antibodies) to sense properties (e.g. presence of antigens) of the blood. Said testing means may be present at, e.g., a "test site" or an "analytical site."
"Lancet" means any sharp member used to puncture the skin for the purpose of cutting blood vessels and allowing blood to flow to the surface of the skin. The lancet has certain parameters such as diameter or width to define the cross-sectional area of the member, and geometry to define the shape of the distal or front lancing end of the member. "Lancet driver" means any means for propelling the lancet to puncture the skin. Examples of lancets and lancet drivers are well known in the art and are described herein with relation to the invention.
Miniaturized Lancing and Actuator System
Referring to
The sample acquisition module further includes a depth selector allowing the user to select one of several penetration depth settings. In
The sample reservoir 208 includes an elongate, rounded chamber 222 within the housing 202 of the sample acquisition module. The chamber 222 has a flat or slightly spherical shape, with at least one side of the chamber 222 being formed by a smooth polymer, preferably absent of sharp corners. The sample reservoir 208 also includes an entrance 224 to the chamber 222, which is in fluid communication with the sampling port 206, and a vent 226 exiting the chamber. A cover (not shown), preferably of clear material such as plastic, positions the lancet 200 and closes the chamber 208, forming an opposing side of the chamber 208. In embodiments where the cover is clear, the cover may serve as a testing means whereby the sample may be analyzed in the reservoir via optical sensing techniques operating through the cover. A clear cover will also aid in determining by inspection when the sample reservoir is full of the blood sample.
In order to improve blood droplet flow, some priming or wicking of the surface with blood is at times necessary to begin the capillary flow process. Portions of the surfaces of the sampling port 400 and the primary and supplemental (if present) capillary channels 404, 410 are treated to render those surfaces hydrophilic. The surface modification may be achieved using mechanical, chemical, corona, or plasma treatment. Examples of such coatings and methods are marketed by AST Products (Billerica, Mass.) and Spire Corporation (Bedford, Mass.). However, a complete blanket treatment of the surface could prove detrimental by causing blood to indiscriminately flow all over the surface and not preferentially through the capillary channel(s). This ultimately will result in losses of blood fluid. The particular surfaces which receive the treatment are selected to improve flow of blood from an incised finger on the sampling site cradle surface 402 through the sampling port 400 and at least one of the capillary channels 404, 410 to the sample reservoir. Thus, the treatment process should be masked off and limited only to the selected surfaces. The masking process of selectively modifying the sampling surface from hydrophobic to hydrophilic may be done with mechanical masking techniques such as with metal shielding, deposited dielectric or conductive films, or electrical shielding means. In some embodiments, the treated surfaces are limited to one or more of the following: the surface of the sampling port which lies between the sampling site cradle surface and the primary and supplemental capillary channel, the surface immediately adjacent to the entrances to the primary and/or supplemental capillary channels 408, 414 (both within the sampling port and within the capillary channel), and the lumenal surface of the primary and/or supplemental capillary channels 406, 412. The blood upon exiting the incision preferentially moves through the sampling port 400 into the supplementary capillary channel 410 (if present) and into the primary capillary channel 404 to the sample reservoir, resulting in efficient capture of the blood. Alternatively, the substrate material may be selected to be hydrophilic or hydrophobic, and a portion of the surface of the substrate material may be treated for the opposite characteristic.
Still looking at
The membrane 416 operates to allow the sharpened distal end of the lancet 420 to pierce the membrane as the sharpened distal end of the lancet 420 travels into and through the sampling port 400. In the most preferred embodiment, the silicone-based gel 424 of the membrane 416 automatically seals the cut caused by the piercing lancet. Therefore, after an incision is made on a finger of a user, the blood from the incision is prevented from flowing through the membrane 416, which aids the blood to travel through the primary capillary channel 404 to accumulate within the sample reservoir. Thus the film prevents any blood from flowing into the lancet device assembly, and blood contamination and loss into the lancet device mechanism cavity are prevented. Even without the resealing layer 424, the hydrophobic membrane 416 deters the flow of blood across the membrane 416, resulting in improved flow through the primary capillary channel 404 and reduced or eliminated flow through the pierced membrane 416.
The driver handle body 500 has a distal end 514 defining a threaded passage 516 into which a preload screw 518 fits. The preload screw defines a counterbore 520. The preload screw 518 has a distal end 522 attached to a preload adjustment knob 524 and a proximal end 526 defining an aperture 528. The driver sleeve 506 has a distal end 530 attached to a catch fitting 532. The catch fitting 532 defines a catch hole 534. The driver sleeve 506 has a proximal end 536 with a sloped ring feature 538 circling the interior surface of the driver sleeve's proximal end 536.
The lancet driver includes a plunger stem 538 having a proximal end 540 and a distal end 542. At its distal end 542, the plunger stem 538 is terminated by an enlarged plunger head 544. At its proximal end 540, the plunger stem 538 is terminated by an enlarged plunger base 546. A plunger hook 548 is located on the plunger stem 538 between the plunger head 544 and the plunger base 546. The plunger base 546 is fixedly attached to the plunger sleeve 512, and the plunger head 544 is slidably disposed within the counterbore 520 defined by the preload screw 518. The plunger stem 538 extends from the plunger head 544, through the aperture 528 defined by the proximal end 526 of the preload screw, thence through the hole 534 in the catch fitting 532, to the plunger base 546. The plunger base 546 extends proximally past the plunger sleeve 512 to form a plunger tip 550. For assembly purposes, the plunger base 546 may be incorporated into the plunger sleeve 512, and the plunger stem 538 attached to the plunger base 546 by crimping, swaging, gluing, welding, or some other means.
The operation of the blood sampling system may be described as follows, with reference to
When the motion to press the assembly against the user's finger is begun (see
As blood seeps from the wound, it fills the sampling port 206 and is drawn by capillary action into the sample reservoir 208. In this embodiment, there is no reduced pressure or vacuum at the wound, i.e. the wound is at ambient air pressure, although embodiments which draw the blood sample by suction, e.g. supplied by a syringe or pump, may be used. The vent 226 allows the capillary action to proceed until the entire chamber is filled, and provides a transfer port for analysis of the blood by other instrumentation. The finger is held against the sample acquisition module until a complete sample is observed in the sample reservoir. As the sample acquisition module 100 is removed from the lancet driver 102, a latch 230 that is part of the return stop 228 structure engages a sloped ring feature 538 inside the lancet driver 102. As the lancet driver 102 is removed from the sample acquisition module 100, the latch forces the return stop 228 to rotate toward the lancet 200, bending it to lock it in a safe position, and preventing reuse.
As the sample acquisition module 100 is removed from the lancet driver 102, the driver sleeve 506 is forced to slide in the driver handle body 500 by energy stored in the preload spring 504. The driver sleeve 506, plunger sleeve 512, and actuator spring 510 move outward together until the plunger head 544 on the plunger stem 538 contacts the bottom of the counterbore 520 at the proximal end of the preload screw 526. The preload spring 504 continues to move the driver sleeve 506 outward compressing the actuator spring 510 until the plunger hook 548 passes through the hole 534 in the catch fitting 532. Eventually the two springs reach equilibrium and the plunger sleeve 512 comes to rest in a cocked position.
After the sample acquisition module 100 is removed from the lancet driver 102, it may be placed in a separate analysis device to obtain blood chemistry readings. In a preferred embodiment, the integrated housing 202 or sample reservoir 208 of the sample acquisition module 100 contains at least one biosensor which is powered by and/or read by the separate analysis device. In another embodiment, the analysis device performs an optical analysis of the blood sample directly through the clear plastic cover of the sample acquisition module. Alternatively, the blood sample may be transferred from the sample acquisition module into an analysis device for distribution to various analysis processes.
Alternate embodiments of the invention offer improved success rates for sampling, which reduces the needless sacrifice of a sample storage reservoir or an analysis module due to inadequate volume fill. Alternate embodiments allow automatic verification that sufficient blood has been collected before signaling the user (e.g. by a signal light or an audible beep) that it is okay to remove the skin from the sampling site. In such alternate embodiments, one or more additional lancet(s) (denoted backup lancets) and/or lancet driver(s) (denoted backup lancet drivers) and/or sample reservoir(s) (denoted backup sample reservoirs) are present with the "primary" sample acquisition module. In one such preferred embodiment, following detection of inadequate blood sample volume (e.g., by light or electronic methods), a backup sampling cycle is initiated automatically. The "backup sampling cycle" includes disconnecting the primary sample reservoir via a simple valving system, bringing the backup components online, lancing of the skin, collection of the blood, and movement of the blood to the backup sample reservoir. Blood flows into the backup sample reservoir until the required volume is obtained. The cycle repeats itself, if necessary, until the correct volume is obtained. Only then is the sample reservoir made available as a source of sampled blood for use in measurements or for other applications. The series of reservoirs and/or lancets and/or lancet drivers may easily be manufactured in the same housing and be transparent to the user. In one embodiment, up to three sample reservoirs (the primary plus two backup) are present in a single sample acquisition module, each connected via a capillary channel/valving system to one or more sampling ports. Another embodiment has four sample reservoirs (the primary plus three backup) present in a single sample acquisition module, each connected via a capillary channel/valving system to one or more sampling ports. With three or four sample reservoirs, at least an 80% sampling success rate can be achieved for some embodiments.
Another embodiment includes a miniaturized version of the lancet device. Several of the miniature lancets may be located in a single sampling site, with corresponding capillary channels to transfer blood to one or more reservoirs. The capillary channels may optionally have valves for controlling flow of blood. The device may also include one or more sensors for detecting the presence of blood, e.g. to determine if a sufficient quantity of blood has been obtained. In such an embodiment, the combined blood sampling system—the disposable sample acquisition module, the lancet driver, and the optional accessory module will have dimensions no larger than about 150 mm long, 60 mm wide, and 25 mm thick. In other embodiments, the size of the combined blood sampling system including the disposable sample acquisition module, the lancet driver, and the optional accessory module will have dimensions no larger than about 100 mm long, about 50 mm wide, and about 20 mm thick, and in still other embodiments no larger than about 70 mm long, about 30 mm wide, and about 10 mm thick. The size of the combined blood sampling system including the disposable sample acquisition module, the lancet driver, and the optional accessory module will generally be at least about 10 mm long, about 5 mm wide, and about 2 mm thick.
In another miniature embodiment, the dimensions of the lancet driver without the accessory module or sample acquisition module are no larger than about 80 mm long, 10 mm wide, and 10 mm thick, or specifically no larger than about 50 mm long, 7 mm wide, and 7 mm thick, or even more specifically no larger than about 15 mm long, 5 mm wide, and 3 mm thick; dimensions of the lancet driver without the accessory module or sample acquisition module are generally at least about 1 mm long, 0.1 mm wide, and 0.1 mm thick, or specifically at least about 2 mm long, 0.2 mm wide, and 0.2 mm thick, or more specifically at least about 4 mm long, 0.4 mm wide, and 0.4 mm thick. In yet another miniature embodiment, dimensions of the miniature sample acquisition module without the lancet driver or accessory module are no larger than about 15 mm long, about 10 mm wide, and about 10 mm thick, or no larger than about 10 mm long, about 7 mm wide, and about 7 mm thick, or no larger than about 5 mm long, about 3 mm wide, and about 2 mm thick; dimensions of the miniature sample acquisition module without the lancet driver or accessory module are generally at least about 1 mm long, 0.1 mm wide, and 0.1 mm thick, specifically at least about 2 mm long, 0.2 mm wide, and 0.2 mm thick, or more specifically at least about 4 mm long, 0.4 mm wide, and 0.4 mm thick.
In another embodiment, the miniaturized sample acquisition module and the lancet driver form a single unit having a shared housing, and the combined sample acquisition module/lancet driver unit is disposable. Such a combined unit is no larger than about 80 mm long, about 30 mm wide, and about 10 mm thick, specifically no larger than about 50 mm long, about 20 mm wide, and about 5 mm thick, more specifically, no larger than about 20 mm long, about 5 mm wide, and about 3 mm thick; the combined unit is generally at least about 2 mm long, about 0.3 mm wide, and about 0.2 mm thick, specifically at least about 4 mm long, 0.6 mm wide, and 0.4 mm thick, more specifically, at least about 8 mm long, 1 mm wide, and 0.8 mm thick.
Although the above-described embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail, various modifications to the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the foregoing description and accompanying drawings and will be within the scope of the invention, which is to be limited only by the following claims.
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Foodborne Illness & Contaminants
NCBI/NLM/NIH Glossary
acanthamoebaA genus of free-living soil amoebae that produces no flagellate stage. Its organisms are pathogens for several infections in humans and have been found in the eye, bone, brain, and respiratory tract
acanthamoeba keratitisInfection of the cornea by an ameboid protozoan which may cause corneal ulceration leading to blindness
acquired immunodeficiency syndromeAn acquired defect of cellular immunity associated with infection by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), a CD4-positive T-lymphocyte count under 200 cells/microliter or less than 14% of total lymphocytes, and increased susceptibility to opportunistic infections and malignant neoplasms. Clinical manifestations also include emaciation (wasting) and dementia. These elements reflect criteria for AIDS as defined by the CDC in 1993
adenosine diphosphate glucoseServes as the glycosyl donor for formation of bacterial glycogen, amylose in green algae, and amylopectin in higher plants
adenoviridaeA family of non-enveloped viruses infecting mammals (MASTADENOVIRUS) and birds (AVIADENOVIRUS). Infections may be asymptomatic or result in a variety of diseases
adenoviridae infectionsVirus diseases caused by the ADENOVIRIDAE
aeromonas hydrophilaA species of gram-negative, facultatively anaerobic, rod-shaped bacteria that may be pathogenic for frogs, fish, and mammals, including man. In humans, cellulitis and diarrhea can result from infection with this organism
aflatoxin b16aR-cis-2,3,6aalpha,9aalpha-Tetrahydro-4-methoxycyclopenta(c)furo(3\',2\':4,5)furo(2,3-h)(1)benzopyran-1,11-dione. The compound is a potent hepatotoxic and hepatocarcinogenic mycotoxin produced by the Aspergillus flavus group of fungi. It is also mutagenic, teratogenic, and causes immunosuppression in animals. It is found as a contaminant in peanuts, cottonseed meal, corn, and other grains. The mycotoxin requires epoxidation to aflatoxin B1-2,3-oxide for activation. Microsomal monooxygenases biotransform the toxin to the less toxic metabolites aflatoxin M1 and Q1
aflatoxinsA group of closely related toxic metabolites that are designated mycotoxins. They are produced by Aspergillus flavus and A. parasiticus. Members of the group include AFLATOXIN B1, aflatoxin B2, aflatoxin G1, aflatoxin G2, AFLATOXIN M1, and aflatoxin M2
aids-related complexA prodromal phase of infection with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Laboratory criteria separating AIDS-related complex (ARC) from AIDS include elevated or hyperactive B-cell humoral immune responses, compared to depressed or normal antibody reactivity in AIDS; follicular or mixed hyperplasia in ARC lymph nodes, leading to lymphocyte degeneration and depletion more typical of AIDS; evolving succession of histopathological lesions such as localization of Kaposi\'s sarcoma, signaling the transition to the full-blown AIDS
amanitinsA group of very potent toxins from Amanita species which cause lethal liver and kidney damage and inhibit some RNA synthesis
amebiasisInfection with any of various amebae. It is an asymptomatic carrier state in most individuals, but diseases ranging from chronic, mild diarrhea to fulminant dysentery may occur
amphotericin bPolyene antifungal antibiotic produced by Streptomyces nodosus obtained from soil of the Orinoco river region of Venezuela
ampicillin6-((Aminophenylacetyl)amino)-3,3-dimethyl-7-oxo-4-thia-1- azabicyclo(3.2.0)heptane-2-carboxylic acid. Semi-synthetic derivative of penicillin that functions as an orally active broad-spectrum antibiotic
ampicillin resistanceNonsusceptibility of a microbe to the action of ampicillin, a penicillin derivative that interferes with cell wall synthesis
anaphylatoxinsThe family of peptides C3a, C4a, C5a, and C5a des-arginine produced in the serum during complement activation. They produce smooth muscle contraction, mast cell histamine release, affect platelet aggregation, and act as mediators of the local inflammatory process. The order of anaphylatoxin activity from strongest to weakest is C5a, C3a, C4a, and C5a des-arginine. The latter is the so-called "classical" anaphylatoxin but shows no spasmogenic activity though it contains some chemotactic ability
anemia hemolyticAnemia due to decreased life span of erythrocytes
antacidsSubstances that counteract or neutralize acidity. They are used mainly for the treatment of gastrointestinal irritation or ulcers
antinematodal agentsSubstances used in the treatment or control of nematode infestations. They are used also in veterinary practice
appendicitisAcute inflammation of the vermiform appendix
astrovirusesSmall (approximately 28nm diameter) circular viruses sometimes showing a star-shaped surface configuration, found in stools of vertebrates with infantile gastroenteritis. The taxonomic status is uncertain though a relationship to Picornaviridae has been suggested
atropineA toxic alkaloid, originally from Atropa belladonna, but found in other plants, mainly Solanaceae. It is used as an antimuscarinic agent for relaxation of smooth muscle, to increase heart rate, as an anesthetic premedication, as an antispasmotic, in anticholinesterase poisoning, in aspiration pneumonitis, in bronchial disorders, or to dilate the pupil, among other uses
atropine derivativesAnalogs and derivatives of atropine
bacillus anthracisA species of bacteria that causes ANTHRAX in humans and animals
bacillus subtilisA species of gram-positive bacteria that is a common soil and water saprophyte
bacillus thuringiensisA species of gram-positive bacteria which may be pathogenic for certain insects. It is used for the biological control of the Gypsy moth
bacteremiaThe presence of viable bacteria circulating in the blood. Fever, chills, tachycardia, and tachypnea are common acute manifestations of bacteremia. The majority of cases are seen in already hospitalized patients, most of whom have underlying diseases or procedures which render their bloodstreams susceptible to invasion
bacterial toxinsToxic substances formed in or elaborated by bacteria; they are usually proteins with high molecular weight and antigenicity; some are used as antibiotics and some to skin test for the presence of or susceptibility to certain diseases
botulinum toxinsToxins produced by Clostridium botulinum. There are at least seven different substances, most being proteins. They have neuro-, entero-, and hemotoxic properties, are immunogenic, and include the most potent poisons known. The most commonly used apparently blocks release of acetylcholine at cholinergic synapses
botulismA disease caused by potent protein neurotoxins produced by CLOSTRIDIUM BOTULINUM. Characteristics include abdominal pain, vomiting, motor disturbances, and visual difficulties. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention classify botulism into four types: (1) food-borne; (2) infant; (3) wound; and (4) indeterminate
bungarotoxinsNeurotoxic proteins from the venom of the banded or Formosan krait (Bungarus multicinctus, an elapid snake). alpha-Bungarotoxin blocks nicotinic acetylcholine receptors and has been used to isolate and study them; beta- and gamma-bungarotoxins act presynaptically causing acetylcholine release and depletion. Both alpha and beta forms have been characterized, the alpha being similar to the large, long or Type II neurotoxins from other elapid venoms
calicivirusA genus in the family Caliciviridae containing many species including feline calicivirus (CALICIVIRUS, FELINE), VESICULAR EXANTHEMA OF SWINE VIRUS, and San Miguel sea lion viruses
campylobacterA genus of bacteria found in the reproductive organs, intestinal tract, and oral cavity of animals and man. Some species are pathogenic
campylobacter coliA species of gram-negative, rod-shaped bacteria isolated from the intestinal tract of swine, poultry, and man. It may be pathogenic
campylobacter fetusA species of bacteria present in man and many kinds of animals and birds, often causing infertility and/or abortion
campylobacter infectionsInfections with bacteria of the genus CAMPYLOBACTER
campylobacter jejuniA species of bacteria that resemble small tightly coiled spirals. Its organisms are known to cause abortion in sheep and fever and enteritis in man and may be associated with enteric diseases of calves, lambs, and other animals
cd4-positive t-lymphocytesA critical subpopulation of regulatory T-lymphocytes involved in the induction of most immunological functions. The HIV virus has selective tropism for the T4 cell which expresses the CD4 phenotypic marker, a receptor for HIV. In fact, the key element in the profound immunosuppression seen in HIV infection is the depletion of this subset of T-lymphocytes, which includes both the helper-inducer (T-LYMPHOCYTES, HELPER-INDUCER) and suppressor-inducer (T-LYMPHOCYTES, SUPPRESSOR-INDUCER) T-cells
cd8-positive t-lymphocytesA critical subpopulation of regulatory T-lymphocytes involved in MHC Class I-restricted interactions. They are include both cytotoxic T-lymphocytes (T-LYMPHOCYTES, CYTOTOXIC) and suppressor T-lymphocytes (T-LYMPHOCYTES, SUPPRESSOR-EFFECTOR)
chlortetracycline(4S-(4 alpha,4a alpha,5a alpha,6 beta,12a alpha))-7-Chloro-4-dimethylamino-1,4,4a,5,5a,6,11,12,12a-octahydro-3,6,10,12,12a-pentahydroxy-6-methyl-1,11-dioxo-2-naphthacenecarboxamide. An antibiotic substance isolated from the substrate of Streptomyces aureofaciens and used as an antibacterial and antiprotozoal agent
cholecystitisInflammation of the gallbladder
choleraAn acute diarrheal disease endemic in India and Southeast Asia whose causative agent is VIBRIO CHOLERAE. This condition can lead to severe dehydration in a matter of hours unless quickly treated
cholera toxinThe exotoxin from Vibrio cholerae. It is a protein that consists of two major components, the heavy (H) or A peptide and the light (L) or B peptide or choleragenoid which binds the whole protein to cell membranes, is nontoxic, but immunogenic. The A fragment causes cholera, probably due to the activation of adenylate cyclase; it consists of two polypeptide fragments
cimetidineBlocker of histamine H2 receptors that decreases gastric acid secretion and reduces pepsin output. It is used to treat gastrointestinal ulcers
citrobacter freundiiA species of gram-negative, facultatively anaerobic, rod-shaped bacteria found in man and other animals including mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians. Its organisms have also been isolated from soil and water as well as from clinical specimens such as urine, throat, sputum, blood, and wound swabs as an opportunistic pathogen
clostridium perfringensThe most common etiologic agent of GAS GANGRENE. It is differentiable into several distinct types based on the distribution of twelve different toxins
colitis ulcerativeInflammatory disease of unknown cause which involves the mucosa of the colon. Onset may be acute and fulminant, and its course often continues chronically in an intermittent or continuous form. Diarrhea is a common symptom and bleeding an almost constant concomitant symptom
comaA profound state of unconsciousness. It includes "stupor" from which the patient can be partially roused, as well as complete unconsciousness in which there is no response to sensory stimuli, even at the reflex level
convulsionsSeizures manifested by discontinuous involuntary skeletal muscular contractions, either brief contractions repeated at short intervals or longer ones interrupted by intervals of muscular relaxation
convulsions febrileSeizures occurring in young children during febrile episodes due to a low convulsive threshold. The convulsions are usually a self-limiting disorder after the age of 5 years
crohn diseaseGastrointestinal disorder characterized by chronic inflammatory infiltrates, fibrosis affecting all layers of the serosa, and development of noncaseating granulomas. The most common site of involvement is the terminal ileum with the colon as the second most common
cryptosporidiosisParasitic intestinal infection with severe diarrhea caused by a protozoan, CRYPTOSPORIDIUM. It occurs in both animals and humans
cytotoxinsSubstances elaborated by microorganisms, plants or animals that are specifically toxic to individual cells; they may be involved in immunity or may be contained in venoms
dermotoxinsSpecific substances elaborated by plants, microorganisms or animals that cause damage to the skin; they may be proteins or other specific factors or substances; constituents of spider, jellyfish or other venoms cause dermonecrosis and certain bacteria synthesize dermolytic agents
diabetes mellitusA heterogeneous group of disorders that share glucose intolerance in common
dinoflagellidaProtozoans of the class PHYTOMASTIGOPHORA, found mainly in the oceans. They are characterized by the presence of transverse and longitudinal flagella which propel the organisms in a rotating manner through the water
endotoxinsToxins closely associated with the living cytoplasm or cell wall of certain microorganisms, which do not readily diffuse into the culture medium, but are released upon lysis of the cells
enterobacteriaceaeA family of gram-negative, facultatively anaerobic, rod-shaped bacteria that do not form endospores. Its organisms are distributed worldwide with some being saprophytes and others being plant and animal parasites. Many species are of considerable economic importance due to their pathogenic effects on agriculture and livestock
enterobacteriaceae infectionsInfections with bacteria of the family ENTEROBACTERIACEAE
enterotoxinsSubstances that are toxic to the intestinal tract causing vomiting, diarrhea, etc.; most common enterotoxins are produced by bacteria
enzyme-linked immunosorbent assayAn immunoassay utilizing an antibody labeled with an enzyme marker such as horseradish peroxidase. While either the enzyme or the antibody is bound to an immunosorbent substrate, they both retain their biologic activity; the change in enzyme activity as a result of the enzyme-antibody-antigen reaction is proportional to the concentration of the antigen and can be measured spectrophotometrically or with the naked eye. Many variations of the method have been developed
eosinophilsGranular leukocytes with a nucleus that usually has two lobes connected by a slender thread of chromatin, and cytoplasm containing coarse, round granules that are uniform in size and stainable by eosin
erabutoxinsToxins isolated from the venom of Laticauda semifasciata, a sea snake (Hydrophid); immunogenic, basic polypeptides of 62 amino acids, folded by four disulfide bonds, block neuromuscular end-plates irreversibly, thus causing paralysis and severe muscle damage; they are similar to Elapid neurotoxins
erythromycinAntibiotic substance produced by Streptomyces erythreus found first in a soil sample from the Philippines. Three erythromycins are produced during fermentation - A, B, and C. Erythromycin A is the major component
exotoxinsToxins produced, especially by bacterial or fungal cells, and released into the culture medium or environment
gastric acidHydrochloric acid present in gastric juice
gastric acidity determinationGastric analysis for determination of free acid or total acid
giardiasisAn infection of the small intestine caused by the flagellated protozoan GIARDIA LAMBLIA. It is spread via contaminated food and water and by direct person-to-person contact
glucoseD-Glucose. A primary source of energy for living organisms. It is naturally occurring and is found in fruits and other parts of plants in its free state. It is used therapeutically in fluid and nutrient replacement
glucose-6-phosphataseAn enzyme that catalyzes the conversion of D-glucose 6-phosphate and water to D-glucose and orthophosphate. EC 188.8.131.52
glucose dehydrogenasesD-Glucose:1-oxidoreductases. Catalyzes the oxidation of D-glucose to D-glucono-gamma-lactone and reduced acceptor. Any acceptor except molecular oxygen is permitted. Includes EC 18.104.22.168; EC 188.8.131.52; EC 22.214.171.124 and EC 188.8.131.52
gram-negative bacteriaBacteria which lose crystal violet stain but are stained pink when treated by Gram\'s method
gram-negative bacterial infectionsInfections caused by bacteria that show up as pink (negative) when treated by the gram-staining method
gram-positive bacteriaBacteria which retain the crystal violet stain when treated by Gram\'s method
gram-positive bacterial infectionsInfections caused by bacteria that retain the crystal violet stain (positive) when treated by the gram-staining method
gram-positive cocciCoccus-shaped bacteria that retain the crystal violet stain when treated by Gram\'s method
gram-positive endospore-forming bacteriaBacteria that form endospores and are gram-positive. Representative genera include BACILLUS, CLOSTRIDIUM, MICROMONOSPORA, SACCHAROPOLYSPORA, and STREPTOMYCES
gram-positive rodsA large group of rod-shaped bacteria that retains the crystal violet stain when treated by Gram\'s method
hemagglutininsAgents that cause agglutination of red blood cells. They include antibodies, blood group antigens, lectins, autoimmune factors, bacterial, viral, or parasitic blood agglutinins, etc
hemolytic-uremic syndromeSyndrome of hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, and acute renal failure, with pathological finding of thrombotic microangiopathy in kidney and renal cortical necrosis
hepatitis aHepatitis caused by HEPATOVIRUS. It can be transmitted through fecal contamination of food or water
hepatitis a virusA genus of PICORNAVIRIDAE causing infectious hepatitis naturally in humans and experimentally in other primates. It is transmitted through fecal contamination of food or water
hepatitis antibodiesImmunoglobulins raised by any form of viral hepatitis; some of these antibodies are used to diagnose the specific kind of hepatitis
hepatitis e virusA positive-stranded RNA virus causing enterically-transmitted non-A, non-B hepatitis (HEPATITIS E). The morphological and physiochemical properties suggest that it is a member of the calicivirus family (CALICIVIRIDAE)
histamineThe procedure of assaying for histamine concentration
hla-b27 antigenHuman histocompatibility (HLA) surface antigen encoded by the B locus on chromosome 6. It is strongly associated with acute anterior uveitis, ankylosing spondylitis, and Reiter\'s disease
hla-b7 antigenHuman histocompatibility (HLA) surface antigen encoded by the B locus on chromosome 6. There is a weak association between the presence of the HLA-B7 antigen and the diseases of narcolepsy and idiopathic hemochromatosis. HLA-B7 is in linkage disequilibrium with HLA-A3 and HLA-DR2
ibotenic acidalpha-Amino-3-hydroxy-5-isoxazoleacetic acid. Neurotoxic isoxazole substance found in Amanita muscaria and A. pantherina. It causes motor depression, ataxia, and changes in mood, perceptions and feelings, and is a potent excitatory amino acid agonist
immunocompromised hostA human or animal whose immunologic mechanism is deficient because of an immunodeficiency disorder or other disease or as the result of the administration of immunosuppressive drugs or radiation
ketoconazole1-Acetyl-4-[4-[(2-(2,4-dichlorophenyl)-2- (1H-imidazol-1-ylmethyl)-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy] -phenyl]-cis-piperazine. Broad spectrum antifungal agent used for long periods at high doses, especially in immunosuppressed patients
lectinsProtein or glycoprotein substances, usually of plant origin, that bind to sugar moieties in cell walls or membranes and thereby change the physiology of the membrane to cause agglutination, mitosis, or other biochemical changes in the cell
leukocytesWhite blood cells. These include granular leukocytes (BASOPHILS, EOSINOPHILS, and NEUTROPHILS) as well as non-granular leukocytes (LYMPHOCYTES and MONOCYTES)
listeriaA genus of bacteria which may be found in the feces of animals and man, on vegetation, and in silage. Its species are parasitic on cold-blooded and warm-blooded animals, including man
listeria infectionsInfections with bacteria of the genus LISTERIA
listeria monocytogenesA species of gram-positive, rod-shaped bacteria widely distributed in nature. It has been isolated from sewage, soil, silage, and from feces of healthy animals and man. Infection with this bacterium leads to encephalitis, meningitis, endocarditis, and abortion
liver cirrhosisLiver disease in which the normal microcirculation, the gross vascular anatomy, and the hepatic architecture have been variably destroyed and altered with fibrous septa surrounding regenerated or regenerating parenchymal nodules
marine toxinsToxic or poisonous substances elaborated by marine flora or fauna. They include also specific, characterized poisons or toxins for which there is no more specific heading, like those from poisonous fishes. Clupeotoxin, pahutoxin, prymnesin, scombrotoxin go here
mebendazoleMethyl-5-benzoyl-2-benzimidazolecarbamate. A nematocide in humans and animals. It acts by interfering with the carbohydrate metabolism and associated energy production of the parasite
monocytesLarge, phagocytic mononuclear leukocytes produced in the vertebrate bone marrow and released into the blood; contain a large, oval or somewhat indented nucleus surrounded by voluminous cytoplasm and numerous organelles
muscarine2-Methyl-3-hydroxy-5-(aminomethyl)tetrahydrofuran, trimethylammonium salt. A toxic alkaloid found in Amanita muscaria (fly fungus) and other fungi of the Inocybe species. It is the first parasympathomimetic substance ever studied and causes profound parasympathetic activation that may end in convulsions and death. The specific antidote is atropine
muscimol5-(Aminomethyl)-3-isoxazolol. Neurotoxic isoxazole isolated from Amanita muscaria and A. phalloides and also obtained by decarboxylation of IBOTENIC ACID. It is a potent agonist at GABA-A receptors and is used mainly as an experimental tool in animal and tissue studies
naegleria fowleriA species of parasitic protozoa having both an ameboid and flagellate stage in its life cycle. Infection with this pathogen produces primary amebic meningoencephalitis
nematodaA class of unsegmented helminths with fundamental bilateral symmetry and secondary triradiate symmetry of the oral and esophageal structures. Many species are parasites
ochratoxinsToxins produced by Aspergillus ochraceus. Occurring widely, ochratoxins have been found as natural contaminants on storage grains, corn, peanuts, cottonseed, and decaying vegetation. They are produced by several other species of Aspergillus as well as by Penicillium viridicatum
oxytetracycline(4S-(4 alpha,4a alpha,5a alpha,6 beta,12a alpha))-4-(Dimethylamino)-1,4,4a,5,5a,6,11,12a-octahydro-3,5,6,10,12,12a-hexahydroxy-6-methyl-1,11-dioxo-2-naphthacenecarboxamide. An antibiotic substance isolated from the actinomycete Streptomyces rimosus and used in a wide variety of clinical conditions
paratyphoid feverA prolonged febrile illness commonly caused by serotypes of Salmonella paratyphi. It is similar to typhoid fever but less severe
parvoviridaeA family of very small DNA viruses containing a single linear molecule of single-stranded DNA and consisting of three genera: DENSOVIRUS, DEPENDOVIRUS, and PARVOVIRUS. They infect both vertebrates and invertebrates
parvoviridae infectionsVirus infections caused by the PARVOVIRIDAE
penicillin v(2S-(2 alpha,5 alpha,6 beta)-3,3-Dimethyl-7-oxo-6-((phenoxyacetyl)amino)-4-thia-1- azabicyclo(3.2.0)heptane-2-carboxylic acid. A broad-spectrum penicillin antibiotic used orally in the treatment of mild to moderate infections by susceptible gram-positive organisms
peptic ulcerUlcer that occurs in those portions of the alimentary tract which come into contact with gastric juice containing pepsin and acid. It occurs when the amount of acid and pepsin is sufficient to overcome the gastric mucosal barrier
peptic ulcer perforationPenetration of a peptic ulcer through the stomach wall. May be free, i.e., at a point where the stomach wall faces a real or potential space,, or confined, i.e., at a point where the stomach wall is defended by contiguous or adjacent structures, such as the pancreas
phytohemagglutininsMucoproteins isolated from the kidney bean (Phaseolus vulgaris); some of them are mitogenic to lymphocytes, others agglutinate all or certain types of erythrocytes or lymphocytes. They are used mainly in the study of immune mechanisms and in cell culture
phytoplanktonMinute plant organisms which live in practically all natural waters
picornaviridaeA family of small RNA viruses comprising some important pathogens of humans and animals. Transmission usually occurs mechanically. There are five genera: APHTHOVIRUS, CARDIOVIRUS, ENTEROVIRUS, HEPATOVIRUS, and RHINOVIRUS
picornaviridae infectionsVirus diseases caused by the PICORNAVIRIDAE
plagueAn acute infectious disease caused by YERSINIA PESTIS that affects humans, wild rodents, and their ectoparasites. This condition persists due to its firm entrenchment in sylvatic rodent-flea ecosystems throughout the world. Bubonic plague is the most common form
purpuraA group of disorders characterized by purplish or brownish red discoloration, easily visible through the epidermis, caused by hemorrhage into the tissues
purpura thrombocytopenicAny form of purpura in which the platelet count is decreased. Many forms are thought to be caused by immunological mechanisms
reiter\'s diseaseA triad of nongonococcal urethritis followed by conjunctivitis and arthritis, of unknown etiology
reoviridaeA family of unenveloped RNA viruses with cubic symmetry. The eight genera include ORTHOREOVIRUS, ORBIVIRUS, COLTIVIRUS, ROTAVIRUS, Aquareovirus, Cypovirus, Phytoreovirus, and Fijivirus
reoviridae infectionsInfections produced by reoviruses, general or unspecified
reye\'s syndromeAn acute disease in children characterized by vomiting, hepatic injury with fatty vacuolization, central nervous system damage, and hypoglycemia
salmonella food poisoningPoisoning caused by ingestion of food harboring species of SALMONELLA. Conditions of raising, shipping, slaughtering, and marketing of domestic animals contribute to the spread of this bacterium in the food supply
sanitationThe development and establishment of environmental conditions favorable to the health of the public
saxitoxinPoison found in certain edible mollusks at certain times; elaborated by Gonyaulax species (Dinoflagellate protozoans) and consumed by mollusks, fishes, etc. without ill effects; it is neurotoxic and causes respiratory paralysis and other effects in mammals, known as paralytic shellfish poisoning
scarlet feverInfection with group A streptococci that is characterized by tonsillitis and pharyngitis. An erythematous rash is commonly present
shigellaA genus of gram-negative, facultatively anaerobic, rod-shaped bacteria that ferments sugar without gas production. Its organisms are intestinal pathogens of man and other primates and cause bacillary dysentery (DYSENTERY, BACILLARY)
shigella boydiiOne of the SHIGELLA species that produces bacillary dysentery (DYSENTERY, BACILLARY)
shigella dysenteriaeA species of gram-negative, facultatively anaerobic, rod-shaped bacteria that is extremely pathogenic and causes severe dysentery. Infection with this organism often leads to ulceration of the intestinal epithelium
shigella flexneriA bacterium which is one of the etiologic agents of bacillary dysentery (DYSENTERY, BACILLARY) and sometimes of infantile gastroenteritis
shigella sonneiA lactose-fermenting bacterium causing dysentery
sinoatrial nodeThe small mass of modified cardiac muscle fibers located at the junction of the superior vena cava and right atrium. Contraction impulses probably start in this node, spread over the atrium and are then transmitted by the atrioventricular bundle to the ventricle
sodium channelsCell membrane glycoproteins selective for sodium ions. Fast sodium current is associated with the action potential in neural membranes
sporesThe reproductive elements of lower organisms, such as protozoa, fungi, and cryptogamic plants
staphylococcal food poisoningPoisoning by staphylococcal toxins present in contaminated food
tetracycline(4S-(4 alpha,4a alpha,5a alpha,6 beta,12a alpha))-4-(Dimethylamino)-1,4,4a,5,5a,6,11,12a-octahydro-3,6,10,12,12a-pentahydroxy-6-methyl-1,11-dioxo-2-naphthacenecarboxamide. An antibiotic originally produced by Streptomyces viridifaciens, but used mostly in synthetic form
tetracyclinesBroad-spectrum natural and semisynthetic antibiotics with a naphthacene structure obtained from various Streptomyces species
tetrodotoxinOctahydro-12-(hydroxymethyl)-2-imino-5,9:7,10a-dimethano- 10aH-(1,3)dioxocino(6,5-a)pyrimidine-4,7,10,11,12-pentol. An aminoperhydroquinazoline poison found mainly in the liver and ovaries of fishes in the order Tetradontiformes (pufferfish, globefish, toadfish), which are eaten. The toxin causes paresthesia and paralysis through interference with neuromuscular conduction
thrombocytopeniaDecrease in the number of blood platelets
thrombosisFormation, development, or presence of a thrombus. (Dorland 27th ed
toxinsSpecific, characterizable, poisonous chemicals, often proteins, with specific biological properties, including immunogenicity, produced by microbes, higher plants, or animals
trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole combination4-Amino-N-(5-methyl-3-isoxazolyl)benzenesulfonamide mixture with 5-((3,4,5-trimethoxyphenyl)methyl)- 2,4-pyrimidinediamine. This drug combination has proved to be an effective therapeutic agent with broad-spectrum antibacterial activity against both gram-positive and gram-negative organisms. It is effective in the treatment of many infections, including Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia in AIDS, but is the drug of choice for urinary infection
typhoidAn acute enteric infection caused by SALMONELLA TYPHI
vibrio choleraeThe etiologic agent of CHOLERA
viremiaThe presence of viruses in the blood
zooplanktonMinute free-floating animal organisms which live in practically all natural waters
Page Last Updated: 08/05/2013
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The TN is a temporary work visa status for citizens of Canada and Mexico established as part of The North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). Under this agreement, a citizen of a NAFTA country may work in a professional occupation in another NAFTA country provided that:
Individuals entering under this classification are considered non-immigrants since TN status cannot be used for permanent residence. TN status to work at NYU is obtained either by entering the U.S. as a TN or by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) approval of an NYU–filed TN petition.
Although the Office of Global Services will gladly answer any questions that Canadian or Mexican citizens may have regarding the TN, all TN Inquiry Forms must originate from an established liaison in the hiring department. Once the process has been initiated by the liaison, the Office of Global Services will follow up with further instructions and information.


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New parking designations
To reduce congestion and improve convenience, we are creating a new parking designation for the Academic Center lot, which will now be the Orange 1 Lot. This adds a new pricing tier, a cap on permit sales and a pre-sale for faculty/staff. We are also expanding the popular mid-price yellow lots. There will be other color designation changes as well, all designed to reduce congestion and create equitable pricing relative to parking location.
FY 15 (Starting August 1, 2014)
(Please note that the new orange annual permit from WSU Spokane will not be honored in orange lots in Pullman, but your orange permit will give you access to park in green, yellow, red, or blue.)
Helpful Links:
Instructions for Parking Violation Appeals
Before appealing your citation, bear in mind the following:
- When you became a student or accepted a position with the University, you agreed to abide by the rules and regulations of the University. The traffic and parking regulations are a part of these regulations.
- Permit holders are guaranteed a place to park. They are not guaranteed a space nearest to their classes or place of work.
- The fact that other vehicles are parked improperly does not constitute a valid excuse.
- If you use an emergency or other extenuating circumstance as an excuse, you must attach documented proof to your appeal.
- Not knowing the regulations is not a valid excuse.
- Your past parking record will be a factor in the Parking Appeal Committee's decision.
Suggestions, recommendations, or concerns about the regulations should be directed to Parking and Transportation Services at 509.368.6999 or email@example.com.
Parking Violation Appeal
- Appeals must be submitted in writing within ten days of the violation date. Appeal process does not affect the 30 day late fee time table.
- Refunds will be mailed to the address of the appellant shown on this appeal.
- If you are dissatisfied with the preliminary decision, request a hearing before the committee. Such a request must be made in writing (at Parking and Transportation Services) within ten days of receipt of the notice of the appeal. If no such request is received, the appeal decision shall be final.
The appeal committee convenes the first Wednesday and the third Monday of every month. Decisions will be mailed to the address listed on your appeal form.
Appeal your citation »
Approved FY 2003
- Blocking traffic: $25.00
- Display of lost, stolen, or counterfeit permit: $250.00
- Illegal use of permit: $65.00
- Improper display of permit or indicator: $5.00
- Late fee: $10.00
- No parking permit: $25.00
- No parking permit for this area: $20.00
- No parking zone: $20.00
- Overtime in time zone: $10.00
- Overtime or nonpayment at meter: $10.00
- Parking in a fire zone: $50.00
- Unauthorized parking in a disability space: $50.00
- Unauthorized parking in reserved area: $40.00
- Wheel lock fee: $50.00
Tips to Avoid Tickets
If you have questions about parking on campus, call Parking and Transportation Services at 509-368-6999. Any other source is unreliable!
- Have a properly displayed, valid WSU Spokane parking permit.
- Stay away from meters if you hate to watch the clock.
- The objective of a zone system is to provide you with a reliable chance of finding a space in your zone. Parking is on a first-come, first-served basis; there are no guarantees. If you cannot find a space in your assigned zone, use the park-down rules to find other areas where your permit allows you to park.
- Pay close attention to signs and park in marked spaces only. All lots have signs at their entrances to let you know what restrictions apply and when enforcement is in effect.
- If your vehicle becomes disabled and you cannot move it right away, call our office or campus security.
When our office is closed, call Campus Security (509-358-7995) for information.
Pay a Ticket Online »
Availability and Prices
(Tax is included)
|Orange permit
|Green permit
|Yellow permit
|Red permit
|Annual permit
|WSU semester
|Eastern quarter
* There is a pay and display machine in the Orange 1 East side only, Yellow 1, and Yellow 2 parking lot. The pay and display machine accepts master card/ visa, dollar bills and coins. Once you have inserted your money, take the receipt slip and display that on your dash so that it can be seen from outside your vehicle at all times while on campus. This receipt is only good for the lots they are purchased in, Please read any and all signs in the area.
There are also parking meters in the Orange 1, Green 2, and Green 3 parking lots, meters are $1.00 an hour.
Purchase a Permit Online »
All individuals who park on campus bear responsibility to read and understand campus parking regulations.
Ignorance of the rules will not be accepted as grounds for dismissal of parking tickets.
Campus parking and traffic regulations for Washington State University Spokane »
Commute Trip Reduction
- This state-sponsored program is designed to reduce the number of single occupancy vehicles on the road, in an effort to cut air pollution, traffic, and wear on the roads.
- Register for the campus CTR program though the Parking and Transportation office.
- EWU and WSU faculty and staff who register as CTR participants may receive a reduction in their parking pass. On the WSU Spokane campus, the CTR program includes a guaranteed ride home in the case of emergencies.
- The CTR committee tries to reward the great participants of the CTR program by holding a monthly drawing. We enter countywide events to give you an opportunity for prizes like DVD players and hotel stays.
- Commute Finder NW: Are you looking for a carpool or van pool partner? This site will also connect you with bike riding/walking partners and bus info.
- Go Green CTR newsletter (pdf) » Winter
Commute Trip Reduction Program »
Spokane Transit Authority
- Current bus schedules and STA information are available in each of the classroom buildings and by the Parking Office (South Campus Facilities, room 314, behind the Bookie). For more information, visit our office or call 509.368.6999.
- EWU and WSU students and staff can ride the bus for free; just show the bus driver your current, valid EWU or WSU card.
- The Parking Office collects names and locations of people interested in car- and vanpools. Check with us (509.368.6999) about carpooling.
- You can also find a carpooling partner for a single trip or many on our private social network for ridesharing, Zimride (see below).
Zimride Rideshare Network
- Zimride is a fun and easy way to share the seats in your car or catch a ride. With Zimride, you can find WSU friends, classmates, and coworkers going the same way you are.
- WSU Zimride helps you offer or request rides for commutes, road trips, and popular events. If you have a car, split costs by offering rides. If you don't have a car, find rides where you need to go.
- WSU Zimride requires a wsu.edu email address. You can also sign in using your Facebook account if you are part of the WSU network.
- Connect with WSU Zimride.
Bicycling and Walking
- The WSU Spokane campus enjoys a wonderful location along the Centennial Trail, which starts at Riverside State Park and continues on to Post Falls. This trail is great for bicycling, walking, or in-line skating. So enjoy the trail even on the weekends with a parking pass, or use the meters in the green parking lots.
- Bike racks: north east of the Academic Center; inside Phase I, Academic Center, and Health Sciences building (look in loading docks).
Mailing address:
PO Box 1495
Spokane, WA 99210-1495
Shipping address:
412 E Spokane Falls Blvd
Spokane, WA 99202
412 E. Spokane Falls blvd.,
314 South Campus Facility
(west side), behind the Bookie
Mon–Thurs: 7:30 am–6:30 pm
Fri: 8:00 am–5:00 pm


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Nomad LED Compass
EvoWood 16
|8 Implements / 12 Functions
|» More Images
Ergonomic handles made of natural walnut
2.5" Blade
2.4'' Springless scissors with serrated, self-sharpening design
Patented locking screwdriver
Cap lifter
Wire stripper
Can opener
Nail file
Nail cleaner
Phillips® head screwdriver
Key ring
The Wall Street Journal calls the EvoWood a "sleek tool that you'll admire even when it's not in use." Read More
EvoWood is the latest in the growing Evolution series created by Wenger in 2005, more than 100 years after the original Swiss Army Knife design. Wenger is commited to protecting the environment and these products, which are grown in Switzerland, demonstrate the innovative ways in which we can approach production to help conservation.
The handles for each of these pocketknives are constructed from sustainable top quality walnut using what would otherwise be waste material from other production processes. The natural walnut, which is durable for light outdoor use, is colored in a rich dark stain to create individual shades and grain patterns in each knife, making every product a one-off.
EvoWood 16 Swiss Army Knife. Check out all Wenger Swiss Army Knives.
Product Specifications


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more product information
Recommend: Yes
We have listened, and are aware that we missed the mark on the quality of this item! We have reproduced these Wall Plaques, and believe the material improvements will bring this item to our high DaySpring standards.
This is beautiful! Like the other reviewer stated, only the one is on canvas but I was able to get it on sale so it was ok. I am planning on buying more sets as gifts!
I received these wall hangings in the mail. Packaging protected them well. They have a beautiful color and print. Good size for what I wanted. Only the square plaque is on canvas, the other two smaller ones are cardboard. I embellished the set so it doesn't look so cheapened.


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The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga men's tennis team posted a 6-1 win over Appalachian State on the UTC Tennis Courts today. The Mocs improve to 9-8 overall and 4-4 in Southern Conference action with today's win.
UTC opened by taking the doubles point over the Mountaineers (4-13, 2-6 SoCon). Seniors Ankit Chopra (Chandigrah, India) and Roberto Vieira (Bedfordview, South Africa) opened with an 8-4 win over Sebatian King and Zach Bost. They improved to 3-3 overall and 2-1 in SoCon action.
Seniors Manuel Barroetavena (Buenos Aires, Argentina) and Jackson Tresnan (Apopka, Fla.) clinched the point with their 8-6 victory over Steve Lake and Steve Karendal at No. 3. Barroetavena and Tresnan lead the Mocs with a 13-7 doubles mark, 11-3 in the spring and 7-1 in SoCon action.
Barroetavena kept things going for UTC with a quick (6-1, 6-0) win at No. 2, his 20th of the season. He is 6-2 in conference matches and 13-4 in the spring. Vieira followed with a (6-2, 6-2) win over king at No. 1, snapping a personal five-match skid.
Sophomore Pavels Grigorjevs (Riga, Latvia) clinched the win with a three-set (2-6, 6-4, 6-1) win at No. 6. Tresnan and Chopra also posted singles wins for the Mocs.
Chattanooga is back on the UTC Tennis Courts for Senior Day on Sunday against The Citadel. First-serve is set for 1:00 p.m. (E.D.T.) with Senior Day celebrations starting at 12:45 p.m. Seven seniors will say goodbye tomorrow, including Barroetavena, Chopra, Stephen Crofford (Franklin, Tenn.), William Disterdick (Hixson, Tenn.), Chris Smith (Johnson City, Tenn.), Tresnan and Vieira. A link for live scoring is available on the men's tennis schedule page on GoMocs.com.
Chattanooga 6, Appalachian State 1
Apr 06, 2013 at Chattanooga, Tenn. (UTC Tennis Courts)
Doubles competition
1. Ankit Chopra/Roberto Vieira (UTC) def. Sebastien King/Zach Bost (APP) 8-4
2. Andrew McKinnon/Jen-Willem Kleynhans (APP) def. Chris Smith/John Peacey (UTC) 8-4
3. Manuel Barroetavena/Jackson Tresnan (UTC) def. Steve Lake/Steve Karendal (APP) 8-6
Singles competition
1. Roberto Vieira (UTC) def. Sebastien King (APP) 6-2, 6-2
2. Manuel Barroetavena (UTC) def. Steve Karendal (APP) 6-1, 6-0
3. Ankit Chopra (UTC) def. Zach Bost (APP) 7-6 (7-5), 6-4
4. Jackson Tresnan (UTC) def. Andrew McKinnon (APP) 7-5, 6-4
5. Matt Saltsgaver (APP) def. John Peacey (UTC) 2-6, 6-4, 7-6 (7-5)
6. Pavels Grigorjevs (UTC) def. Jen-Willem Kleynhans (APP) 2-6, 6-4, 6-1
Order of finish: Doubles (1,3,2); Singles (2,1,6,3,4,5)


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Only hotels in Cheektowaga are listed below. Find cheap and discounted hotel/motel rates in or nearby Cheektowaga, NY for your personal leisure or group travel. Explore the most favored Cheektowaga New York hotel rooms. Review the Cheektowaga hotel list below to find the perfect lodging. We also have a map of the Cheektowaga hotels. Group booking? Search Cheektowaga Group Hotel Discounts
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Below are reviews of the city of Cheektowaga, NY from an actual visitor's perspective.
|Richard R., from
|Date of Review:
|Score of City:
5.0 / 5
"Time to roll in Cheektowaga."
Location, bowling center right down the road. Lots of places to eat. Just a great experience. If you like to roll like I do this city has it all. You can always drive into the big city, Buffalo, but I'll be keeping it real here in Cheektowaga.


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Samsung 850 Pro 2TB reviewTechRadar Pro
Samsung is first to the 2TB barrier with its latest SSD, but at what cost?
Samsung is first to the 2TB barrier with its latest SSD, but at what cost?
Toshiba's latest 2.5-inch external hard disk drive breaks capacity records with ease.
The Patriot Ignite is great for those who want higher capacity storage, but don't want to spend an arm and a leg.
Need a fast, portable hard disk drive? Then consider the HGST Touro S.
The hardware manufacturer tries to be innovative but has Seagate gone too far this time?
Crucial's assault on the entry-level SSD market continues with the BX100.
If you want an external hard disk drive with a massive capacity, check out this 8TB model.
The first NVMe-based SSD is here. Can the new protocol finally deliver on the promise of solid state storage?
If James Bond had an external hard drive in his Aston Martin, it would be the Seagate Seven.


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Explore the personal stories of Syrian refugees in Lebanon
Ghana's mixed fortune as a dumping ground for e-waste
Eyal Weizman explains architecture's key role in the Israeli occupation of Palestine and the evolution of urban warfare.
Human Rights, Israel, Palestine
There is a unique and dangerous commerce system at work in Amazonia, where children risk their lives for a few pennies.
Business & Economy, Latin America, Brazil
We expose the dirty secrets behind Australia's fresh food industry and the widespread exploitation of foreign workers.
Human Rights, Australia, Food
The devastating impact that war and living under the constant threat of drones has had on the people of Afghanistan.
War & Conflict, Health, Afghanistan


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Find the perfect hotel in Mahwah using our hotel guide provided below. Search for cheap and discounted hotel and motel rates in or near Mahwah, NJ for your upcoming personal or group travel. Discover the best Mahwah New Jersey hotel rooms. Review the Mahwah hotel list below to find the perfect lodging. We also have a map of the Mahwah hotels. Coordinating a group? Get Mahwah Group Hotel Discounts
Mahwah Hotels, Motels & Accommodations
Next 20 Mahwah Hotels > [1 - 20 of 50]
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- Arizona ECAP and the IEP
- Division on Career Development & Transition (DCDT)
The mission of DCDT is to promote national and international efforts to improve the quality of and access to career/vocational and transition services, increase the participation of education in career development and transition goals, and to influence policies affecting career development and transition services for persons with disabilities.
- SharedWork
A website designed to support and facilitate the shared work that occurs among individuals, organizations, and agencies at the local, district, state, and national levels. There is a page dedicated to a Community of Practice on Transition where Arizona information can be found. You must register in order to enter the site – registration is free.
- Transition Coalition (University of Kansas)
Provides online information, support, and professional development on topics related to transition from school to adult life for youth with disabilities.
- Transition of Students with Disabilities To Postsecondary Education: A Guide for High School Educators (an Office for Civil Rights publication)
A booklet published by OCR to inform educators about the rights and responsibilities of students with disabilities and to facilitate their transition from high school to postsecondary environments.


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- What We Do
- Agriculture and Food Security
- Democracy, Human Rights and Governance
- Economic Growth and Trade
- Education
- Ending Extreme Poverty
- Environment and Global Climate Change
- Gender Equality and Women's Empowerment
- Addressing Gender in Programming
- Supporting Women's Economic Growth
- Achieving Gender Equality in Agriculture
- Empowering Women in Crisis and Conflict
- Harnessing Innovation for Women's Empowerment
- Improving Health For Women And Girls
- Increasing Participation and Leadership in Environment
- Promoting Gender Equality and Access to Education
- Strengthening Women's Rights and Political Participation
- Gender-Based Violence
- Child Marriage
- Countering Trafficking in Persons
- Fostering Women's Leadership
- Women and Girls with Disabilities
- Partnerships
- Communications Tools
- Addressing Gender in Programming
- Global Health
- Water and Sanitation
- Working in Crises and Conflict
- U.S. Global Development Lab
USAID's development mission is a world in which women, men, girls and boys enjoy economic, social, cultural, civil, and political rights and are equally empowered to secure better lives for themselves, their families and their communities.
No society can develop sustainably without increasing and transforming the distribution of opportunities, resources and choices for males and females to shape their own lives.
Building on the Agency's decades of experience, USAID's 2012 Policy on Gender Equality and Female Empowerment affirms the critical role women play in accelerating progress in development and advancing global prosperity and security.
Under the Policy, USAID investments aim to achieve three overarching outcomes:
- Reduce gender disparities in access to, control over and benefit from resources, wealth, opportunities and services - economic, social, political, and cultural
- Reduce gender-based violence and mitigate its harmful effects on individuals
- Increase capability of women and girls to realize their rights, determine their life outcomes, and influence decision-making in households, communities, and societies
Gender equality and female empowerment are now universally recognized as core development objectives, fundamental for the realization of human rights, and key to effective and sustainable development outcomes.
Societies with greater gender equality experience faster economic growth and benefit from greater agricultural productivity and improved food security. Empowering women to participate in and lead public and private institutions makes those institutions more representative and effective. Increasing girls' and women's education and access to resources improves the health and education of the next generation. Women also play critical roles as effective peace advocates, community leaders, and champions of civil and human rights.
USAID's commitment to the full participation of males and females in their societies involves integrating gender equality and female empowerment into all of our efforts to:
- Increase Food Security
- Promote Global Health and Strong Health Systems
- Reduce Climate Change Impacts
- Promote Sustainable, Broad Based Economic Growth
- Expand and Sustain the Ranks of Stable, Prosperous and Democratic States
- Provide Humanitarian Assistance and Supporting Disaster Mitigation
- Prevent and Respond to Crises, Conflict and Instability
Learn More
Last updated: December 13, 2013


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Burger King's first-quarter earnings more than doubled even though revenue fell, as the fast-food chain trimmed several restaurant-related expenses.
The Miami-based company had warned earlier this month that sales at established restaurants were expected to fall during the quarter, and they wound up declining 1.4 percent. That includes a 3 percent drop in the United States and Canada.
Burger King said competition and a strong first quarter last year hurt U.S. and Canadian sales comparisons to this year's quarter. But it said sales from those countries rallied in March due in part to promotions like the $1.29 Whopper Jr.
The company has been adjusting its strategy to focus on more menu deals like that. McDonald's has been particularly aggressive in touting its Dollar Menu to boost traffic at a time when the restaurant industry is barely growing. Wendy's also revamped its value menu recently.
Overall, Burger King Worldwide Inc. said Friday its net income rose to $35.8 million, or 10 cents per share, in the quarter that ended March 31. That's up from $14.3 million, or 4 cents per share, in the previous year's quarter when it was still private.
The company previously said adjusted earnings, which don't count certain one-time expenses, totaled 17 cents per share in the most recent quarter.
Revenue fell about 42 percent to $327.7 million. Analysts expected $305.8 million, according to FactSet.
Total restaurant expenses, which include things like food costs and payroll expenses, fell nearly 70 percent in the quarter to $108.1 million.
Burger King has been undergoing a revamp since it was purchased and taken private in 2010 by 3G Capital, a private investment firm run by Brazilian billionaires. The company has been selling more restaurants to franchisees, a move that lowers overhead costs. Instead of booking sales from those restaurants, that means Burger King would collect franchise fees instead.
In the first quarter, the company's restaurant revenues tumbled 69 percent to $121.1 million, but its franchise and property revenues rose 19 percent to $206.6 million. The company sold 33 company-owned restaurants in the U.S. and Canada to franchisees during the quarter for $9.3 million.
Burger King said about 97 percent of its restaurants are owned and operated by independent franchisees.
The company's selling, general and administrative expenses also fell about 30 percent to $66.7 million in the quarter.
3G Capital also has slashed costs, signed international expansion deals and changed the U.S. menu to appeal to a wider audience. The moves came ahead of the company's return to public trading on the New York Stock Exchange last June.
Burger King says its efforts to revamp the brand remain on track. But CEO Bernardo Hees, a 3G partner, is moving on later this year to head Heinz, another 3G investment. Chief Financial Officer Daniel Schwartz, also a 3G partner, will succeed Lees as CEO at Burger King.
Burger King shares rose 24 cents, or 1.3 percent, to $18.30 in midday trading. They have traded between $12.91 and $20.20 since relisting.
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one of a finds: kamba sisal baskets
Bawa La Tumaini in Kenya, which translates to 'Wing of Hope' in English, buys raw materials and pays only women to produce products such as baskets, jewelry, etc.
By marketing and managing the goods so they can be delivered to customers and retailers, Bawa La Tumaini is a bridge to greater prosperity and education for many families in Africa. In the process, they educate women on issues of equality and provide the financing needed for them to become independent with 75% of the proceeds going to the tribe.
Bawa La Tumaini works with many independent village-based groups whose members work from their homes then meet weekly at a central location within the village to bring in the products they have been working on, and to be briefed or debrief on production.
These small producers are geographically spread out and usually each tribe has its own specialty—ie, different tribes specialize in different products or techniques.
Traditional basket weavers who live in the semi-arid region of the South Eastern province of Kenya, the weavers of the kamba baskets are The Ladies of the Kamba community.
Once The Ladies finish weaving a number of baskets, and a quality control team does its work, a different group sews the lining inside. This invites more than one group to the process—so the positive economic impact can be shared with as many families as possible.
One of a Finds original works are offered one time only as a limited edition for collectors and enthusiasts—the kamba baskets are sold as a set of 2, one of each, and have a release of 200.


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Yesterday marks the eighth time, at least, that sick, vicious dogs unfit for domestication have run wild in our neighborhood, through various yards, and onto our property to kill innocent, peaceful creatures.
Three years ago, we received a warning phone call that a neighbor's cat was found dead in her garage. Not 20 minutes later, we heard terrifying animal noises in our yard but did not arrive in time to save my childhood tabby cat Tiger, who was cornered, taken by the neck and shaken violently to death by this band of dogs.
He's buried in our yard next to his sister Goldie, who was murdered in the same manner a year later.
Soon after, a third cat Clarabelle was slaughtered, her remains all over our garage.
During the last few years, we have had to reintroduce generations of ducklings after these dogs have brutalized and wiped out entire populations of the mallards who call our pond home.
One of the massacres was particularly devastating because the ducks were raised from eggs with their parents close by. It was the only clutch to survive raccoons, cats, opossums and other nest robbers.
Most recently, we raised a brood of hens from chick-hood who graced our barn with the most beautifully colored feathers and eggs. I use "who" because each had a name. I am overcome with anger because these violent dogs wreaked havoc again recently, unbeknownst to their owners, killing seven of our nine young hens.
The personal irresponsibility, disregard and blatant disrespect for our community this dog owner has shown are despicable. Fines, censures, and court sentences have not prevented these dogs from lawlessly destroying the peace in our neighborhood. We've been angry, but it's time to get even. The punishment must fit the crime.
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WACO, Texas – the New Mexico State equestrian team competed in the first round of the 2013 National Collegiate Equestrian Association National Championship, at the Extraco Events Center. The NM State Hunter Seat team was seeded No. 11 and faced SMU in the first round, while the Western team was seeded No. 12 and took on South Carolina.
The Hunter Seat team fought hard but fell 6-2 overall to SMU, tying 2-2 in Equitation on the Flat and dropping Equitation over Fences, 4-0. In Equitation on the Flat, Emily McConnell defeated SMU's Greer Hindle, 132-109, while Hannah Swarthout beat Paulena Johnson, 153-131. Swarthout's score of 153 was the highest score in the head-to-head competition between the two schools.
The Western team also battled till the end but couldn't overtake South Caroline, falling 6-2 as well. The Aggies scored one point in both Horsemanship and Reining. Brynn Larson defeated Audrey Jewell, 138-136 in Reining, as Lauren DeVoe beat Katie Kopf, 145.5-142. The Aggies lost four very close head-to-head match-ups, all within four points of each other.


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Visit the Adobe website to download the latest Adobe Flash Player
Our beetles don't eat feathers, so specimens are usually skinned before they reach the colonies. In this example we left the feathers intact to show how this large parrot's amazing skull sits underneath its skin.
Since December 2011, the Natural History Museum and Site-Eye Time-Lapse Films Ltd have been filming inside one of the beetle colonies used for bird skeleton preparation.
Warning: the films are graphic, showing specimens and their decomposition.


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Tuesday, August 04, 2015
Just over 100 years ago the world saw the first professional photos of penguins in Antarctica. See them here.
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It's May, and that means the second half of 2011 will be here soon. The first half of the year saw Halo: Reach Series 2 and 3 land on store shelves – so what's on tap for the second half?
This fall, McFarlane Toys will bring fans two more action-packed series of Halo: Reach action figures – plus a very special bonus line commemorating the tenth anniversary of the Halo franchise.
These three expanded assortments will continue our best-selling 6-inch action figures and figure two-packs, and will introduce our first Halo: Reach three-packs, armor packs, new vehicles, and even our first build-a-figure item!
Check out the lineups below to get an early start on your holiday shopping lists, and check back soon for the full details on every figure. And while you're waiting for all these great new Halo toys to arrive, be sure to pick up Halo: Reach Series 3, in stores now.
Halo: Reach Series 4 (July 2011)
Individual Carded Figures
Jorge (unhelmeted) with M247T Heavy Machine Gun and backpackBrute Minor with Brute Spike Rifle and Plasma GrenadeElite General with Fuel Rod Gun and Plasma GrenadeGrunt Major with Needler and Plasma GrenadeUNSC Marine with Assault RifleSpartan Mark V (male) (team blue/team blue) with Assault Rifle and Frag GrenadeSpartan CQC (male) (rust/rust) with Grenade Launcher and Frag Grenade (Toys "R" Us exclusive)Spartan EVA (male) (team red/team red) with Sniper Rifle and Frag Grenade (Target exclusive)Spartan ODST (male) (steel/pale) with DMR and Frag Grenade (GameStop exclusive)Carded Air Assault Armor Pack (rust/rust) (Toys "R" Us exclusive)Carded Air Assault Armor Pack (team red/team red) (Target exclusive)
Boxed 2-Packs
Spartan Hologram 2-Pack with Noble Six, Noble Six hologram, Assault Rifles, and Frag Grenades
Boxed Armor Packs
Spartan Air Assault Custom Armor Packs (steel/steel) with one figure and four sets of armorSpartan Air Assault Custom Armor Packs (team blue/team blue) with one figure and four sets of armor Spartan Grenadier Armor Packs (steel/steel) with one figure and four sets of armorSpartan Grenadier Armor Packs (team red/team red) with one figure and four sets of armor
Vehicle Sets
Pillar of Autumn Mongoose Set with campaign green Mongoose, Noble Six, and Cortana's Memory MatrixMongoose with Red Team Scout Set with team red Mongoose and team red Spartan Scout custom (male)
Boxed 3-Packs
Spartan Specter 3-Pack with three Spartan Mark VI custom (male) (maroon) figures: one completely clear, one fully painted, and one in translucent colored plastic; each with a matching ShotgunInfection 3-Pack with Spartan ODST custom (male) (blue/gold) "human" with DMR, Spartan Pilot custom (male) "zombie" with Energy Sword, and Spartan HazOp custom (male) "zombie" with Energy Sword
Halo Universe: Anniversary Edition (October 2011)
Individual Carded Figures
Master Chief (Halo: Combat Evolved) stylized "low polycount" figure with matching Assault Rifle, Frag Grenade, and the left half of the "Easy" Difficulty PlaqueDutch (Halo 3: ODST) with Spartan Laser, Frag Grenade, and the right half of the "Easy" Difficulty PlaqueCortana (Halo 3) with light-up base and the knife from the "Normal" Difficulty PlaqueArbiter (Halo 2) with Energy Sword, Plasma Grenade, and the knife from the "Heroic" Difficulty PlaqueGrunt (black) (Halo 3) with Fuel Rod Gun, Plasma Grenade, and Elite skull from the "Legendary" Difficulty PlaqueDifficulty Plaque (Halo series) "build-a-figure" item created by collecting all five Anniversary figures; comes with attachments for displaying it on a desk or hanging it on a wall
Boxed 3-Packs
Master Chief Evolution 3-Pack with Halo: Combat Evolved Master Chief with Assault Rifle, Halo 2 Master Chief with dual-wielded SMGs, and Halo 3 Master Chief with Sniper RifleFearless Leaders 3-Pack with ODST Buck with Assault Rifle and removable helmet, Sergeant Forge with Shotgun, and Carter with DMR and Frag Grenade
Halo: Reach Series 5 (November 2011)
Individual Carded Figures
Carter (unhelmeted) with Spartan Laser and Frag GrenadeBrute Chieftain with Gravity Hammer and Plasma GrenadeSkirmisher Murmillo with Energy Shields, Plasma Pistol, and Plasma GrenadeElite Ranger with Jetpack, Focus Rifle, and Plasma GrenadeSpartan Gungnir custom (male) (olive/tan) with Rocket Launcher weapon and Frag GrenadeHalo: Reach Weapons Pack with seven different UNSC and Covenant weapons, grenades, and Spartan JetpackSpartan Security (male) (team blue/team blue) with Grenade Launcher and Frag Grenade (Toys "R" Us exclusive)Spartan Operator (male) (team red/team red) with Spartan Laser and Frag Grenade (Target exclusive)Carded CQB Custom Armor Pack (team red/team red) (Target exclusive)
Boxed 2-Packs
Covenant Spec Ops with Active Camo Elite Spec Ops with Energy Sword, and Grunt Spec Ops with Fuel Rod Gun
Boxed Armor Packs
Spartan CQB Custom Armor Packs (steel/steel) with one figure and four sets of armorSpartan CQB Custom Armor Packs (rust/rust) with one figure and four sets of armorSpartan Gungnir Armor Packs (steel/steel) with one figure and four sets of armorSpartan Gungnir Armor Packs (team red/team red) with one figure and four sets of armor
Vehicle Sets
Exodus Mongoose Set with battle-damaged campaign green Mongoose and updated ODST TrooperMongoose with Team Blue EOD (custom) Set with team blue Mongoose and team blue Spartan EOD custom (male) with Rocket Launcher
McFarlane Toys
McFarlane Toys is the fifth largest action figure manufacturer in the United States. Established in 1994 to manufacture and sell action figures based on founder Todd McFarlane's comic book character Spawn, the international award-winning company has expanded into licensed products to become one of the premiere action figure producers on the planet. Check out the McFarlane Toys' Catalog, where you can see all of our current figures, previews of upcoming toys, and even a massive archive of every action figure we've ever made.
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