Abstract: An antigen composition and method for the detection of antibodies to Treponema pallidum and the diagnosis of syphilis are described. The antigen composition contains synthetic cardiolipin and synthetic lecithin. The antigen composition may additionally contain cholesterol and an alcohol. The antigen composition is useful as an immunoreagent in immunoassays for the detection of antibodies associated with T. pallidum infection. The methods are sensitive and specific for T. pallidum infection.

Abstract: A hand tool for inserting intramedulary pins in fractured bones of humans and animals. The tool includes an outer sleeve, a hollow shaft coaxially aligned within the sleeve having a continuous spiral groove in its outer surface, a cam follower on the outer sleeve slideably engaged with the spiral groove, a chuck mounted on one end of the shaft adapted to releasably grip an intramedulary pin, and a spring extended between the opposite end of the shaft and a flange integral with the hollow shaft. The tool is constructed to receive intramedulary pins of a variety of diameters and lengths. Additionally, it can be readily disassembled for its sterilization and for interchangeability of springs having different spring rates. As a person using the tool applies force to the sleeve to advance the pin longitudinally, the chuck is rotated and, with it, the pin which aids the insertion procedure.