Cable Ties Research Articles

Strength and durability studies of waste nylon cable ties concrete

Of late, concrete technology is changing at a fast phase. Concrete is a flexible material and several attempts are being made to incorporate different materials specially industrial wastes as substitutes to the existing ingredients to enhance the quality of concrete. On the other hand environmentally sustainable concrete is in great demand. As plastic waste disposal has become a major problem for the modern day society, concrete has played a vital role as a dumping material. Plastic can either be used in concrete either as a partial substitute for fine aggregate or as an additive.Plastic wastes are present in different forms. This study focuses on use of waste Nylon Cable Ties (NCT) as a partial replacement of fine aggregates (1%, 2%, 4%) and as addition (0.5%, 1%, 1.5%) for M40 grade of concrete. Different tests like flexural, split tension, compression,effects of temperature and permeability test are being carried out. It was observed that 2% replacement of M-sand by waste NCT gives better results compared to 1% and 4% replacement of waste NCT. Addition of 1% NCT gives maximum compression, spilt tensile strength and flexural strength in concrete. When compared to replacement of fine aggregates by waste NCT, addition of waste NCT is found to give better strength.The permeability of the specimens was reduced for both replacement and addition of NCT ties. However permeability was found to be lesser for addition of NCT ties. But the performance of these specimens was not very satisfactory for either replacement or addition of NCT ties.

Pressure-induced left ventricular hypertrophy in canine model of aortic stenosis using nylon tie

The aim of this study was to develop an experimentally-induced canine model of left ventricular hypertrophy through banding of the ascending aorta using nylon ties. Seven clinically normal dogs free of cardiovascular disease were used. Nylon tie was used in banding the mid-ascending aorta. Clinical, radiographic and echocardiographic evaluations were done at 1.5, 3 and 6 months. Dogs were euthanized at 6 months for post mortem and histopathological evaluation. Clinically, dogs did not exhibit any signs of cardiovascular disease at 1.5 or 3 months, while at 6 months two dogs (28.6 %) exhibited mild weight loss, exercise intolerance and heart murmurs. Radiographic evaluation revealed significant increase in cardiac size only at 6 months based on measurement of the cardiothoracic area evaluation. Echocardiography revealed increased left ventricular wall thickness starting from 1.5 month, although this increase was statistically significant at 3 and 6 months (p > 0.05). Left ventricular hypertrophy was confirmed by post mortem examination. Histopathological sections of left ventricle in all dogs demonstrated myocyte hypertrophy and interstitial fibrosis. This model simulates the naturally occurring ventricular hypertrophy using a rapid and economic technique. Such models are required to understand pathogenesis of heart disease and to develop effective treatment strategy.

Development of nodal solutions for fixing cable ties in spatial rod structures

The article presents the results of analysis of the stress-strain state of the developed new nodal solutions for fixing cable ties in collapsible spatially strained structures, since the existing nodal solutions are not intended for connecting cable ties. During operation under extreme conditions for the structure (sudden gusts of wind, dynamic effects), it is necessary to ensure the reliability of the nodal connections of the cable ties with the struts. It is also important to maintain the speed of building structures. The mentioned ideas influence on additional moments that worsen the work of the temporary structures node. Stress-strain state analysis of the original and newly developed node was performed on the basis of both computer modeling and natural experiment, the results were compared. In the course of the conducted research, the most stressed zones in the created nodes were identified, as well as the reasons for the destruction of newly created nodes.

Design of Ciodeng suspension bridge, Indonesia, for pedestrian

Suspension bridge is a type of bridge which have the deck hung below the suspension cables on vertical suspenders. The bridge is commonly used for long spans. One of the longest suspension bridge is Akashi-Kaikyo in Japan. Cost effective, suitable for long span bridge, have more flexibility and less complicated construction are the advantage of suspension bridges. Therefore suspension bridges are not only designed for vehicles but also for pedestrians. Suspension bridges for pedestrian are usually located in rural areas due to obstacles such as rivers, valleys or plantations. This paper presents a design of suspension bridge for pedestrian. The design refers to “Manual for Design and Build of Suspension Bridge for Pedestrian”. The suspension bridge is modeled using MIDAS Civil 2019. The output of the software is the internal forces consisting of moments, shear and normal forces used to design section properties and connection models. Based on the analysis and design process, obtained the dimensions of the bridge element; IWF.250.125.9.6 for the main girder, 150.100.9.6 for the cross girder, C.50.45.5.7 for the secondary girder, 250.250.14.14 for the pylon, L.50.50.5 for the bottom bracing, 60 mm for the main cable diameter, 20 mm for the hanging rod diameter, and 20 mm for the wind cable ties diameter.

Dr. Space Junk vs the Universe: Archaeology and the Future

Dr. Space Junk vs the Universe: Archaeology and the Future

Strength and Structural Performance of Reinforced Concrete Beam with Artificial Plastic Fibre (APF)

Behaviour of Reinforced Concrete (RC) in beam structure has captured attention of many researchers. Many past researchers investigated the issue of concrete strength in tensile zone. The present research investigates the effect of waste nylon cable ties fibre that act as an Artificial Plastic Fibres (APF) in normal concrete mix and RC beam element. The concrete strength of 30 MPa have been utilized in this research. The percentage of APF that has been mixed with the concrete paste are 1% and 3%. For strength performance, nine (9) cube specimens and nine (9) cylinder specimens were tested under compressive and splitting tensile test, respectively. In addition, six (6) RC beam specimens were prepared and tested under three points bending test in order to investigate its structural performance. Based on the results, 0%, 1% and 3% of APF in concrete mix produces tensile strength of 1.89 MPa, 3.37 MPa and 2.66 MPa respectively. While, from the compression tests, 50.9 MPa, 47.2 MPa and 24.5 MPa were generated from 0%, 1% and 3% of APF, respectively. From this observations, only 1% of APF was employed in concrete mix to produce RC beam for structural performance investigations. Based on three point bending test, RC beam that consisting 1% of APF produced maximum load about 35.98 kN with 1.8 mm deflection compared with control specimen that can only endured until 27.93 kN of maximum load with 2.37 mm deflection. Further observation reveals that cracking of RC beam consisting 1% of APF reduce and delay the crack formation. Overall, utilization of 1% APF in RC beam successfully improves its strength and structural performance.

Coral Translocation as a Method to Restore Impacted Deep-Sea Coral Communities

Corals and sponges in rocky deep-sea environments are foundation species postulated to enhance local diversity by increasing biogenic habitat heterogeneity and enriching local carbon cycling. These key groups are highly vulnerable to disturbances (e.g., trawling, mining, and pollution) and are threatened by expansive changes in ocean conditions linked to climate change (acidification, warming, and deoxygenation). Once damaged by trawling or other disturbances, recolonization and regrowth may require centuries or longer, highlighting the need for stewardship of these deep-sea coral and sponge communities (DSCSCs). To this end, the sustainability of DSCSCs may be enhanced not only by protecting existing communities, but also repopulating disturbed areas using active restoration methods. Here, we report one of the first studies to explore methods to restore deep-sea coral populations by translocating coral fragments of multiple coral species. Branches of deep-sea corals were collected by ROV from 800–1300 m depth off central California and propagated into multiple fragments once at the surface. These fragments were then attached to “coral pots” using two different methods and placed in the same habitat to assess their survivorship (n=113 total fragments, n=7 taxa, n=7 deployment groups). Mean survivorship for all translocated coral fragments observed within the first 365 days was ~52%, with the highest mortality occurring in the first 3 months. In addition to an initial temporal sensitivity, survival of coral fragments varied by attachment method and among species. All coral fragments attached to coral pots using zip ties died, while those attached by cement resulted in differential survivorship over time. The latter method resulted in 80–100% fragment survivorship after one year for Corallium sp., Lillipathes sp., and Swiftia kofoidi, 12–50% for the bamboo corals Keratoisis sp. and Isidella tentaculum, and 0–50% for the bubblegum corals Paragorgia arborea and Sibogagorgia cauliflora. These initial results indicate differences in sensitivities to transplanting methods among coral species, but also suggest that repopulation efforts may accelerate the recovery of disturbed DSCSCs.

Emergency Department Thoracotomy: A Cost-Effective Model for Simulation Training

Simulation provides a safe learning environment where high-stakes, low-frequency procedures can be practiced without the fear of being unsuccessful or causing harm. Emergency department thoracotomy (EDT) is one such procedure. Realistic thoracotomy models are expensive and not readily available. Our objective is to describe a cost-effective, realistic, reproducible, and reusable thoracotomy model for simulation training. We modified a commercially available clothes mannequin torso to expose the chest and abdominal cavity. A plastic skeleton composed of a spinal cord and ribs was placed inside the torso. Tubing was used to simulate the aorta and esophagus; both tubes were secured to the distal spine with zip ties. Commercially available lungs and heart were placed inside the chest cavity. A small rubber ball simulated the left lung to be able to maneuver the lung. The heart was covered with plastic wrap to simulate the pericardium. Thick tape was used to simulate the pleural cavity. Yoga mats were used to simulate the intercostal muscles, subcutaneous tissue, and skin. This model was tested with Emergency Medicine (EM) residents during a simulation session. A voluntary survey was available for residents to provide feedback. Survey results confirmed that the model provided valuable education, with overall positive feedback. This EDT model provides a valuable teaching opportunity to EM residents who otherwise might not have the opportunity to perform this procedure. Residents agreed that the model improved their confidence and is an effective method in providing the opportunity to practice this low-frequency, high-stakes procedure.

Fit assessment of two different anatomically contoured distal femur plate sets on cadaveric bones.

This study aims to investigate the fitness of two anatomic distal femoral plates with cadaveric femurs and to show whether current plates optimally match each femur. Two different sets of plates with five, seven and nine shaft holes were applicated on 62 cadaveric femurs. Ball clay was molded onto the entire inner surfaces of the plates and then the plates were fixed to the bones using two self-locking nylon cable zip ties. The volume of ball clay sandwiched in between the plate and bone was calculated and used as a quantitative fit parameter. Data of each plate were analyzed separately. Using Double Medical Technology IncorporatedTM plates, the mean plate to bone volumes were calculated as 8.4 mL (range, 5-14 mL), 10.0 mL (range, 6-17 mL), and 13.1 mL (range, 7-25 mL) in five, seven and nine-hole plates, respectively. Using Zimmer Biomet IncorporatedTM plates, the mean volumes were 10.5 mL (range, 6-21 mL), 12.7 mL (range, 7-22 mL) and 16.3 mL (range, 8-30 mL) in five, seven and nine-hole plates, respectively. Within each group, the measurements were significantly correlated positively with femoral length. Optimal fit may not be achieved in each femur using current distal femoral plate implant sets. Thus additional sizes of plates should be supplied in the implant sets.

Use of a Digital Protractor and a Spirit Level to Determine the Intraoperative Anteversion of Femoral Component during Cemented Hip Hemiarthroplasty: a Prospective Clinical Trial.

Femoral stem anteversion during hip arthroplasty is generally estimated by eye intraoperatively and has proven to be different from targeted values. This study aims to determine the accuracy of a novel technique using a digital protractor and a spirit level to improve surgeons' estimation of stem anteversion. A prospective non-randomized study was conducted among 93 patients with femoral neck fracture who underwent cemented hemiarthroplasty via posterolateral approach. In the control group (N=62), five experienced surgeons assessed stem anteversion related to the posterior femoral condylar plane using visual estimation with a target angle of 15°-25°. In the study group (N=31), another two surgeons assessed stem anteversion with the same target angle by placing a digital protractor on the femoral stem inserter handle while the assistant held the leg in the truly vertical position, verified by a spirit level that was attached to the shin with cable ties. Stem anteversion was measured blind, postoperatively, on 2D-CT and compared with the intraoperative results. The mean postoperative anteversion was 22.4° (-4.2° to 51.3°, SD 11.1°) in the control group and 23.0° (16.0° to 29.9°, SD 3.6°) in the study group (P=0.810). The study group had more stems positioned in 15°-25° anteversion (71.0% vs 32.3%, P=0.001) and the mean absolute value of surgeon error was -0.2° (-5.4° to 7.0°, SD 3.0°). Twenty-eight stems of the study group (90.3%) had an error within 5°. Surgeon overestimation >5° was found in 1 hip (3.2%) and underestimation >5° was found in 2 hips (6.4%). Using a digital protractor and a spirit level was reliable with high accuracy and precision to improve the intraoperative estimation of cemented stem anteversion.

Wind flow and sedimentation in artificial vegetation: Field and wind tunnel experiments

The flow dynamics within and immediately above an artificial plastic vegetation canopy are measured in the field and wind tunnel. Artificial plants created from wooden dowels and cable (zip) ties were arranged in a variety of arrays on pegboards where plant cover (or lateral cover) could be accurately controlled. Plant covers examined ranged from ~12% to 60%. Wind velocity profiles and the bedforms (incipient dunes) that developed within and beyond the vegetation in a few hours were measured. The results indicate that flow deceleration and drag increases within the canopy as plant density increases. In general, there is a marked reduction and inflection in velocity at the canopy top, and a second major inflection in the velocity profiles occurs immediately below the base of the four arrays equal or >23% density. Tall vegetation allows flow to sweep under the canopy and local high speed maxima flows may develop leading to minimal sedimentation in those canopies, but deposition downwind beyond the canopies. Short vegetation, where the leaves fill the canopy close to the ground, display significantly greater drag and rapid rates of sand deposition. Flow velocities above the canopy increase as plant cover or density increases due to flow compression and acceleration. Bedform development is strongly correlated with plant cover, density or lateral cover and short plants such that shorter length, higher bedforms develop in higher density and/or shorter plants. The relationship between plant cover, density or lateral cover and within canopy velocity is non-linear, and a new tentative flow regime is proposed, canopy flow, which may occur between wake interference flow and skimming flow. This study further confirms that plant density plays a defining role in determining bedform and dune morphology. The results also apply to flow in semi-arid grasslands.

An Approach for Passive Removal of Residual LNAPL from Groundwater

AbstractLight nonaqueous phase liquids (LNAPLs) are a problematic challenge for obtaining site closure or no further action remediation sites. The source of the LNAPLs varies from leaking underground petroleum storage tanks, to manufacturing facilities where oil leaks create LNAPL accumulations beneath factory floors. Active recovery using pumping or periodic vacuum recovery from wells or sumps is used for remediation, but usually has disappointing results when LNAPL reaccumulates to thicknesses exceeding the 0.01‐foot action level recognized by many states. This paper presents a simple passive approach for recovering persistent LNAPL using nonwoven hydrophobic oil absorbing cloth. The method used laboratory trials to assess physical properties of the cloth. Parameters observed and assessed included sorptive capacity and rate, buoyancy, and LNAPL wicking. It was determined that the cloth could be rolled and secured with cable ties for placement in the wells/sumps. Two placement designs were developed, one where rolled sorbent freely floated on the well/sump fluid surface and a second where the sorbent roll was placed in the fluid column at a fixed depth. Sorbents were then used at two manufacturing facilities where LNAPLs persisted for decades. In both instances, many wells/sumps were reduced to thicknesses below the action level in less than 2 months. In most wells, LNAPL did not reaccumulate. Where it did reaccumulate, it was less than 50% of the original thickness. Using laboratory‐derived recovery rates, cloth sorbents could be sized to minimize placement/recovery frequency while effectively recovering LNAPL.

Construction of a Compact Low-Cost Radiation Shield for Air-Temperature Sensors in Ecological Field Studies.

Low cost temperature sensors are increasingly used by ecologists to assess climatic variation and change on ecologically relevant scales. Although cost-effective, if not deployed with proper solar radiation shielding, the observations recorded from these sensors will be biased and inaccurate. Manufactured radiation shields are effective at minimizing this bias, but are expensive compared to the cost of these sensors. Here, we provide a detailed methodology for constructing a compact version of a previously described custom fabricated radiation shield, which is more accurate than other published shielding methods that attempt to minimize shield size or construction costs. The method requires very little material: corrugated plastic sheets, aluminum foil duct tape, and cable ties. One 15 cm and two 10 cm squares of corrugated plastic are used for each shield. After cutting, scoring, taping and stapling of the sheets, the 10 cm squares form the bottom two layers of the solar radiation shield, while the 15 cm square forms the top layer. The three sheets are held together with cable ties. This compact solar radiation shield can be suspended, or placed against any flat surface. Care must be taken to ensure that the shield is completely parallel to the ground to prevent direct solar radiation from reaching the sensor, possibly causing increased warm biases in sun-exposed sites in the morning and afternoon relative to the original, larger design. Even so, differences in recorded temperatures between the smaller, compact shield design and the original design were small (mean daytime bias = 0.06 °C). Construction costs are less than half of the original shield design, and the new design results in a less conspicuous instrument that may be advantageous in many field ecology settings.

Using cable ties to connect thoracostomy tubes to drainage devices decreases frequency of unplanned disconnection.

Thoracostomy tube (TT) connection to drainage device (DD) may be unintentionally disconnected, potentiating complications. Tape may strengthen this connection despite minimal data informing optimal practice. Our goal was to analyze the utility of cable ties for TT to DD connection. On April 1, 2015, our trauma center supplanted use of tape or nothing with cable ties for securing TT to DD connection. We abstracted trauma registry patients with TTs placed from March 1, 2014 to May 31, 2016 and dichotomized as prior ("BEFORE") and subsequent ("AFTER") to the cable tie practice pattern change. We analyzed demographics, TT-specific details and outcomes. Primary outcome was TT to DD disconnection. Secondary outcomes included TT dislodgement from the chest, complications, length of stay (LOS), mortality, number of TTs placed and TT days. 121 (83.4% of abstracted) patients were analyzed. Demographics, indications for TT and operative rate were similar for BEFORE and AFTER cohorts. ISS was lower BEFORE (14.12 ± 2.35 vs 18.21 ± 2.71, p = 0.022); however, RTS and AIS for chest were similar (p = 0.155 and 0.409, respectively). TT to DD disconnections per TT days were significantly higher in the BEFORE cohort [6 (2.8%) vs. 1 (0.19%), p = 0.003], and dislodgements were statistically similar [0 vs 3 (0.57%), p = 0.36]. LOS, initial TTs placed and days per TT were similar, and median and mode of days per TT were the same. Cable ties secure connections between TT and DDs with higher fidelity compared to tape or nothing but may increase rates of TT dislodgement from the chest.

Cable Tie Seton in Surgical Treatment of High Perianal Fistula

Background: Seton is any string-like material which when tied through the fistula tract causes an inflammatory reaction which stimulates fibrosis that fixes and prevents retraction of the sphincter continuity when it is divided. In this way, it maintains sphincter continuity during cutting process. Aim of work: was to evaluate the cable tie seton technique in surgical treatment of high perianal fistula, regarding the rate of fecal incontinences and recurrence. Patients and Methods: This prospective study included a total of 20 cases having single tract, high perianal fistula, primary or recurrent and who were managed by cable tie seton from October 2016 till September 2017. Patients were enrolled from General Surgery Department, Al-Hussein Hospital. Patients were instructed to follow up weekly for 10 weeks with continuous tightening of the seton. Results: All the patients were followed up for the state of incontinence for flatus, liquid and solid stool and follow up for recurrence, slippage of cable: Incontinence: There is 3 cases noticed in early 2 weeks incontinent for flatus. Incontinence for liquid stool noticed in 2 cases in early 1 week. Incontinence for solid stool not noticed in our study. In all cases, the cable tie seton was kept in its position and didn’t dislodged or slipped. Conclusion: It could be concluded that cable tie seton is safe, low cost, ubiquitous, pragmatic, precise, and accost effective option for the treatment of high perianal fistula. We there for recommended it for treating fistula in ano requiring the placement of aseton. It does not carry the disadvantages of repeated anesthesia and visits to the operating theater and reduce the morbidity, inconvenience, and cost to the patient.

Cable Tie Seton in Surgical Treatment of High Perianal Fistula

Background: Seton is any string-like material which when tied through the fistula tract causes an inflammatory reaction which stimulates fibrosis that fixes and prevents retraction of the sphincter continuity when it is divided. In this way, it maintains sphincter continuity during cutting process. Aim of work: was to evaluate the cable tie seton technique in surgical treatment of high perianal fistula, regarding the rate of fecal incontinences and recurrence. Patients and Methods: This prospective study included a total of 20 cases having single tract, high perianal fistula, primary or recurrent and who were managed by cable tie seton from October 2016 till September 2017. Patients were enrolled from General Surgery Department, Al-Hussein Hospital. Patients were instructed to follow up weekly for 10 weeks with continuous tightening of the seton. Results: All the patients were followed up for the state of incontinence for flatus, liquid and solid stool and follow up for recurrence, slippage of cable: Incontinence: There is 3 cases noticed in early 2 weeks incontinent for flatus. Incontinence for liquid stool noticed in 2 cases in early 1 week. Incontinence for solid stool not noticed in our study. In all cases, the cable tie seton was kept in its position and didn’t dislodged or slipped. Conclusion: It could be concluded that cable tie seton is safe, low cost, ubiquitous, pragmatic, precise, and accost effective option for the treatment of high perianal fistula. We there for recommended it for treating fistula in ano requiring the placement of aseton. It does not carry the disadvantages of repeated anesthesia and visits to the operating theater and reduce the morbidity, inconvenience, and cost to the patient.

Femoral Diaphyseal Fractures Fixation Technique Using an Adjustable Nylon Tie in Dog (Canis lupus familiaris) and Cat (Felis catus domesticus)

Background: Adjustable nylon ties polyamide 6.6 is devices produced from the same material of surgical nylon wire and have been used in different surgical procedures in small animals and in human patient. Reports regarding the use of these devices as secondary fixation technique of femoral diaphyseal fractures in animals are rare in the literature. The aim of the present report case was to describe the use of adjustable nylon tie polyamide 6.6 as secondary fixation technique in a 3-year-old dog and 4-month-old cat, diagnosed with femoral diaphyseal fractures.Cases: Case 1. A 3-year-old female dog was presented with reluctance to support the left hind limb, with 5 days’ duration. Pain and edema on the left femoral diaphyseal region was identified. The limb was submitted to radiographic exam and revealed a closed, complete and comminuted fracture of the diaphysis of the femur, and was decided to perform a surgical stabilization by open reduction through primary fixation with intramedullary pin, and secondary fixation of bone fragments with adjustable nylon ties polyamide 6.6, as a substitute of steel cerclage wire. The bone fragments were alignment and fixated with five polyamide nylon ties. The excess was removed with a scalpel blade along the lock. Seven days after surgery the skin sutures were removed and were observed reluctance to support the left hind limb. Physiotherapy sessionswere prescribed. Forty days after the surgery was performed a radiographic exam of the left hind limb which revealed alignment of the bone axis. Six months after the surgery, the owner reported that the dog supported the left hind limb.Case 2. A 4-month-old female cat was presented with history of trauma, with 24 h’s duration, and reluctance in supporting the left hind limb. On physical examination there was identified pain on the left femoral diaphyseal region. Radiographic examination revealed a closed, complete and simple fracture of the diaphysis of the femur, and a surgical stabilization through primary fixation with intramedullary pin, and secondary fixation with three polyamide nylon ties was performed.Seven days after the surgery were observed reluctance to support the left hind limb. Three months after the surgery, the owner was contacted and he reported that the cat was supported the limb.Discussion: Adult dogs are more susceptible to diaphyseal fractures and so does the dog in the present report. On the other hand, young cats present high metaphyseal fracture rates due to the metaphyseal growth plate. However, the cat in the present report was different since it was 4-month-old and presented diaphyseal fracture. Different from steel cerclagewires, polyamide nylon ties were used as secondary fixation in diaphyseal fractures for the reason that of their stability in this kind of fracture, no tissue reaction and minimal tissue trauma. The adjustable nylon ties polyamide 6.6 were already used in different surgical procedures in human patients and animals. Complications reported in the literature due to theiruse were associated with erroneous surgical techniques. Adjustable nylon ties polyamide 6.6 proved to be efficient as bone cerclage device in diaphyseal multiple and simple fracture, as well as gave stability to the herein assessed adult dog and young cat, besides not inducing foreign body reactions.Keywords: small animals, polyamide, bones, cerclage, surgery.

Prospective, randomized, controlled trial of polymer cable ties versus standard wire closure of midline sternotomy

ObjectiveMidline sternotomy remains the most common access incision for cardiac operations. Traditionally, the sternum is closed with stainless steel wires. Wires are well known to stretch and break, however, leading to pain, nonunion, and potential deep sternal wound infection. We hypothesized that biocompatible plastic cable ties would achieve a more rigid sternal fixation, reducing postoperative pain and analgesia requirements. MethodsA prospective, randomized study compared the ZIPFIX (De Puy Synthes, West Chester, Pa) sternal closure system (n = 58) with standard stainless steel wires (n = 60). Primary outcomes were pain and analgesia requirements in the early postoperative period. Secondary outcome was sternal movement, as assessed by ultrasound at the postoperative follow-up visit. ResultsGroups were well matched in demographic and operative variables. There were no significant differences between groups in postoperative pain, analgesia, or early ventilatory requirements. Patients in the ZIPFIX group had significantly more movement in the sternum and manubrium on ultrasound at 4 weeks. ConclusionsZIPFIX sternal cable ties provide reliable closure but no demonstrable benefit in this study in pain or analgesic requirements relative to standard wire closure after median sternotomy.

Reações teciduais induzidas pela abraçadeira autoestática de náilon em ligaduras de pedículos ovarianos

Objetivou-se avaliar as reações teciduais induzidas pela abraçadeira autoestática de náilon na oclusão dos pedículos ovarianos, por meio de avaliação macroscópica e histológica. Utilizaram-se 45 fêmeas caninas, sem raça definida, clinicamente sadias, com idade média de 31,11 ± 14,26 meses e peso médio de 11,26 ± 4,7 kg. Todas foram submetidas à ovariosalpingohisterectomia pela técnica minimamente invasiva. Os animais foram divididos aleatoriamente em três grupos com 15 animais cada, que foram avaliados no pós-cirúrgico imediato e aos 30 (G1), 60 (G2) e 90 dias (G3) de pós-operatório. Ao exame histológico dos pedículos contendo as abraçadeiras foi observada, no 30º dia de pós-operatório, reação inflamatória crônica com macrófagos, células gigantes e fibroplasia. No 60º dia, tecido conjuntivo totalmente organizado e em modelação, e presença de linfócitos e polimorfonucleares. No 90º dia de pós-operatório, tecido conjuntivo maduro totalmente organizado com áreas em modelação, macrófagos e linfócitos. As abraçadeiras promovem reação inflamatória que deve ser considerada no momento da aplicação do material, visto a possibilidade de interferência com outras estruturas.

Background survey of polyethylene in the Australian Capital Territory – A demonstration of variability in isotopic abundance values and their application to forensic casework

Plastics including adhesive tapes, cable ties, and packaging are common evidence types encountered in forensic investigations and casework. Traditional examination techniques such as Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy lack specificity and are unable to discern differences within the same polymer structures leaving the analyst with a generic identification. High quality manufacturing methods further amplify the limitations in detecting variability between samples. Isotope Ratio Mass Spectrometry (IRMS) has been shown to be a valuable technique in further discriminating plastics. Discrimination is achieved by analysing the relative abundances of stable isotopes within a sample, with differences detected in isotope ratios possibly attributed to the source of raw materials and fractionation during the manufacturing process. A survey of cling wraps and re-sealable zipper storage bags collected in the Australian Capital Territory was undertaken to assess the variability in carbon and hydrogen isotope ratios of different brands and samples. The results of this research are discussed, particularly with respect to within and between brand trends, and a case study is presented as an example of the value of including IRMS in a casework context.