Cable Ties Research Articles

Dendrometer bands made easy: Using modified cable ties to measure incremental growth of trees.

• Premise of the study: Dendrometer bands are a useful way to make sequential repeated measurements of tree growth, but traditional dendrometer bands can be expensive, time consuming, and difficult to construct in the field. An alternative to the traditional method of band construction is to adapt commercially available materials. This paper describes how to construct and install dendrometer bands using smooth-edged, stainless steel, cable tie banding and attachable rollerball heads.• Methods and Results: As a performance comparison, both traditional and cable tie dendrometer bands were installed on baldcypress trees at the National Wetlands Research Center in Lafayette, Louisiana, by both an experienced and a novice worker. Band installation times were recorded, and growth of the trees as estimated by the two band types was measured after approximately one year, demonstrating equivalence of the two methods.• Conclusions: This efficient approach to dendrometer band construction can help advance the knowledge of long-term tree growth in ecological studies.

Quantifying the release of polymer additives from single-use materials by respiration activity monitoring

Single-use technologies, and thereby polymer materials, are increasingly applied in laboratory and large-scale fermentations. However, little is known about how leaching of polymer additives may affect the culture and compromise GMP regulations. The aim of this study is to introduce a standardized analytical device to test the biocompatibility of such polymer materials. The breathing behavior of various microorganisms was determined with the Respiration Activity MOnitoring Systems (RAMOS) as a function of the added amount of polymer commonly applied in biotechnology. Nylon and polyamide 12, used in cable ties and tubing, respectively, were found to delay and inhibit microbial growth. This is caused by leaching of the plasticizer N-butylbenzenesulfonamide and monomer 1,8-diazacyclotetradecane-2,7-dione, respectively, from the polymers. A metabolic activity inhibition threshold concentration between 4–10 g/L was determined for polyamide 12 tubing. In conclusion, RAMOS is a sensitive and time-effective device to qualify materials before they are applied in cultures.

Sternal fixation using new synthetic cable ties implants (Zip-Fix® System)

Objectives: Sternal dehiscence is a severe complication in cardiac surgical procedures using mid sternotomy as the standard access. Alternative techniques to traditional wiring may reduce the incidence of sternal dehiscence. Methods: In this initial observational study, we present an alternative technique for sternal osteosynthesis, the use of synthetic bands, like cable-ties, made of biocompatible polyether-etherketon (PEEK) to be implanted peristernally. These implants have a larger implant to bone contact area and show a 5 times higher degree of resilience. Results: We performed primary sternal fixation using ZipFix in 31 pts. (from 5/2011 to 9/2011) after mid sternotomy for standard cardiac surgical procedures (CABG: 85%; AVR: 11%; others (HTX): 4%). In this cohort, mean age was 68y (40% over 75y old), 37% had diabetes mellitus, COPD occurred in 30%. The mean body weight was 92.6kg±15.6kg, (range 64–134); mean Obesity (BMI>25) was present in 87%, malignant obesity (BMI >40) in 13%; heavy- weighted patients, i.e. more than 100kg, were present in 35% of patients. Secondary wound dehiscence occurred in two patients (122kg and 134kg) of 28 (7%), due to marginal transsection of the sternum. Conclusions: The cable ties technique using ZipFix is an appropriate device to reduce the incidence of sternal dehiscence after mid sternotomy in patients at high risk for sternal dehiscence. Parasternal implantation technique is recommended. Additional use of wires in the manubrium sterni is optional. As the incidence of obesity is steadily increasing, a more frequent use is expected in the future.

Comparative Growth and Survival of Juvenile Atlantic Cod (Gadus morhua)Cultured in Copper and Nylon Net Pens

Bio-fouling on net pens has been a major concern for the marine aquaculture industry. As cage systems increase in size, so does the surface area for the attachment of colonial organisms that create drag on the net, reduce water flow important to fish health, and increase operational expenses due to net cleaning. To solve this problem, the International Copper Association (ICA) has been developing copper alloy netting for sea cages. Copper netting has unique properties that minimize bio-fouling, reduce the risk of fish escapement, prevent predators from entering the net pen, and is recyclable. To test the alloy netting, an experiment was conducted to compare juvenile cod cultured in traditional nylon nets with cod grown in Seawire copper netting (Seawire@Luvata.com). Six, 0.78 m3 cages were each stocked with 200 Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua) averaging 29 ± 2.2 g and grown for 4 months in coastal waters of New Hampshire, USA. Results of the study indicated no significant differences in cod growth, survival, feed conversion ratio (FCR), specific growth rate (SGR), or Fulton’s condition factor (K) between the fish grown in the copper alloy and nylon nets. A chemical analysis was conducted on the cod and indicated no differences in copper levels in muscle, liver and gill tissues taken from the net treatments. Nylon nets with antifouling paint accumulated significantly more bio-fouling than the copper nets. Materials that were in direct contact with the copper netting (plastic cable ties) fouled heavily with hydroids indicating minimal leaching to the environment. This study describes some of the beneficial attributes of copper netting, however future studies need to be conducted over a longer period of time, on a larger scale, and in a more energetic environment to definitively test the utility of this new product.

Suicidal ligature strangulation utilizing cable ties: a report of three cases

In 2006 the US National Vital Statistics Report recorded 33,300 suicides in the United States, of which hanging, strangulation and suffocation combined to account for 7,491 (22.5%) of the cases. Self strangulation by ligature is uncommon and in the majority of cases, scarves, belts, neckties and rope are used. We report three instances where cable ties were secured around the neck in order to commit suicide. All had a history of depression. One was a 37-year-old man who used a belt to complete the act after an unsuccessful attempt to use cable ties. The second was a 63-year old woman who used multiple cable ties to accomplish her goal. In the third case a tensioning tool was used by a 54-year old man to tighten a cable tie around his neck during self strangulation. Utilization of a tool to tighten the cable ties has not previously been reported.

A new resorbable device for ligation of blood vessels - A pilot study.

BackgroundDuring surgery, controlled haemostasis to prevent blood loss is vital for a successful outcome. It can be difficult to ligate vessels located deep in the abdomen. A device that is easy to use and enables secure ligatures could be beneficial. Cable ties made of nylon have been used for ligation but the non-resorbable material caused tissue reactions. The objective of this study was to use a resorbable material to construct a device with a self-locking mechanism and to test its mechanical strength and ligation efficiency.MethodsThe device was manufactured by injection moulding of polydioxanone, a resorbable polymer used for suture materials. Polydioxanone with inherent viscosities of 1.9 dL/g and 1.3 dL/g were tested. The device consisted of a perforated flexible band which could be pulled through a case with a locking mechanism. After a first version of the device had been tested, some improvements were made. The locking case was downsized, corners were rounded off, the band was made thicker and the mould was redesigned to produce longer devices. Tensile tests were performed with the second version.The first version of the device was used to ligate the ovarian pedicle in a euthanized dog and to test echogenicity of the device with ultrasound. Compression of vessels of the ovarian pedicle was examined by histology. Both versions of the device were tested for haemostasis of and tissue grip on renal arteries in six anaesthetised pigs.ResultsThe tensile strength of the flexible band of the devices with inherent viscosity of 1.9 dL/g was 50.1 ± 5.5 N (range 35.2-62.9 N, n = 11) and the devices with inherent viscosity of 1.3 dL/g had a tensile strength of 39.8 ± 8.1 N (range 18.6-54.2 N, n = 11). Injection moulding of the polymer with lower inherent viscosity resulted in a longer flow distance.Both versions of the device had an effective tissue grip and complete haemostasis of renal arteries was verified. The device attached to the ovarian pedicle could be seen with ultrasound, and vessel compression and occlusion were verified by histology.ConclusionsTests of functionality of the device showed complete haemostasis and good tissue grip. Devices with a band of sufficient length were easily applied and tightened in tissue.

21st Century Kinematics: Synthesis, Compliance, and Tensegrity

As we move into the second decade of the 21st century, we can identify three research trends that we can expect to persist into the future. They are the analysis and synthesis of (i) spatial mechanisms and robotic systems, (ii) compliant linkage systems, and (iii) tensegrity and cable-driven systems. In each case, we find that researchers are formulating and solving polynomial systems of total degrees that dwarf those associated with major kinematics problems of the previous century.

Evaluating Methods for Transplanting Endangered Elkhorn Corals in the Virgin Islands

Restoration of rare corals is desirable and restoration projects are fairly common, but scientific evaluation of this approach is limited. We tested several techniques for transplant and restabilization of Acropora palmata (the elkhorn coral), an ecologically important Caribbean coral whose populations have suffered severe declines. In rough weather, fragments break‐off colonies of branching corals like A. palmata as a normal form of asexual reproduction. We transplanted naturally produced coral fragments from remnant populations to nearby restoration sites. Untouched control fragments at the donor site died faster and grew slower than fragments attached to the reef, so attaching fragments to the reef is beneficial. Transplanted fragments grew and died at a rate similar to fragments left at the donor site (both groups were attached to the reef), so there were no effects of moving fragments or differences in habitat quality between donor and restoration sites. Growth and survival were similar using four methods of attaching fragments to the reef: cable ties, two types of epoxy resin, and hydrostatic cement. Corals sometimes compete with the macroalgae that dominate degraded reefs, and clearing surrounding algae improved the growth of fragments. After 4 years, transplanted fragments grew to 1,450 cm2 in area and so were potentially sexually active. Because the methods tested are simple and cheap, they could be used by volunteer recreational divers to restore locally extirpated A. palmata populations or to enhance reefs where natural recovery is slow.

Coral larvae settle at a higher frequency on red surfaces

Although chemical cues serve as the primary determinants of larval settlement and metamorphosis, light is also known to influence the behavior and the settlement of coral planulae. For example, Porites astreoides planulae settle preferentially on unconditioned red substrata. In order to test whether this behavior was a response to color and whether other species also demonstrate color preference, settlement choice experiments were conducted with P. astreoides and Acropora palmata. In these experiments, larvae were offered various types of plastic substrata representing three to seven different color choices. Both species consistently settled on red (or red and orange) substrata at a higher frequency than other colors. In one experiment, P. astreoides settled on 100% of red, plastic cable ties but failed to settle on green or white substrata. In a second experiment, 24% of larvae settled on red buttons, more than settled on six other colors combined. A. palmata settled on 80% of red and of orange cables ties but failed to settle on blue in one experiment and settled on a greater proportion of red acrylic squares than on four other colors or limestone controls in a second experiment. The consistency of the response across a variety of plastic materials suggests the response is related to long-wavelength photosensitivity. Fluorescence and reflectance spectra of experimental substrata demonstrated that the preferred substrata had spectra dominated by wavelengths greater than 550 nm with little or no reflection or emission of shorter wavelengths. These results suggest that some species of coral larvae may use spectral cues for fine-scale habitat selection during settlement. This behavior may be an adaptation to promote settlement in crustose coralline algae (CCA)-dominated habitats facilitating juvenile survival.

Tagging by Lobster Fishermen to Estimate Abundance of the Discarded Portions of Their Catch

AbstractThe cost of tagging studies can be greatly reduced if fishermen tag, release, and recapture during fishing operations. Some population components captured during fishing can not be legally retained. If these components are returned to the sea unharmed, their abundance can be estimated. Lobster tag, release, and recapture data were obtained by fishermen during their fishing activities over a 9‐week season. Tags were inexpensive and easy to apply to cable ties. Abundance of ovigerous females and window females (non‐ovigerous females, 114–124 mm carapace length) were estimated for seven and three fishing grounds respectively. When lobster fecundity was included in the calculations, annual egg production was also estimated. Fishery management applications include measuring the benefits of a regulation, and setting reference points to the numerical abundance of a life history stage. Experimental and area‐specific management are more affordable if fishermen can collect data for stock assessment during their fishing operations. Data quality depends on carefully communicating the purpose and procedures to fishermen, and on designing a data sheet to reduce recording errors.

Stabilization of Fragments to Enhance Asexual Recruitment in Acropora Palmata, a Threatened Caribbean Coral

Historically, fragmentation has been a successful life history strategy in Acropora palmata. However, in areas where the population is sparse and degraded, the survivorship of fragments is now compromised. This study aimed to determine whether stabilization of A. palmata fragments could increase their overall performance. Naturally occurring fragments were found and assigned to one of three treatments: stabilized to the natural substrate (1) using cable ties, (2) using epoxy or (3) tethered to the substrate as an unstabilized control. After 44 weeks, the general “performance” of the fragments was ranked based on their change in live tissue cover and formation of tissue connections with the substrate. Stabilized fragments lost less tissue cover and ranked higher in performance than the unstabilized control fragments. Stabilization using cable ties and epoxy were similarly effective. The results indicate that stabilizing fragments will preserve live tissue and enhance growth of fragments and can thus improve the survivorship of fragments.

Cable ties as tourniquets at open myomectomy

The major risk of open myomectomy is intraoperative hemorrhage, and several strategies have been suggested to reduce bleeding [1]. While injections of dilute vasopressin or its derivatives are the most widely used, tourniquets that render the uterus avascular during surgery are the most effective. The classic technique involves placing a clamp, catheter, or suture around the cervix (single tourniquet technique) and the infundibulopelvic ligaments (triple tourniquet technique) to occlude the uterine and ovarian blood supplies respectively. As an alternative technique for vascular occlusion, we used sterilized cable ties at open myomectomy performed in 14 patients. The average age of the patients was 39.6 years (range, 28–46 years), and uterine sizes ranged from 14–26 weeks of gestation with a median of 17 weeks. Five patients were pre-treated with GnRH analogues (as part of a randomized study), and one had undergone an unsuccessful uterine artery embolization. All but two of the procedures were performed through transverse laparotomy incisions. We used commercially available 25-cm cable ties purchased from a hardware store (Fig. 1). The cable ties were sterilized individually by steam autoclave and packaged in the hospital's Central Sterilization Unit. The use of cable ties was agreed by the hospital authorities, and as it was considered a service development, ethical approval was not required.

Tube-in-Tube Rescue Airway Management for a Perforated Endotracheal Tube by Patient Biting

I read with great interest the recent case report by Duma et al. 1regarding tube-in-tube emergency airway management after a bitten endotracheal tube (ETT) caused by repetitive transcranial electrical stimulation during spinal cord surgery. This is indeed a favorable rescue airway measure for the ETT perforation by patient biting or electrical surgical instrument,2–4especially when the ETT exchange is difficult or impossible because of patient position, space limit, device deficiency, and others. The authors stated that this method was a new strategy to manage the ETT rupture during surgery. In fact, Peskin and Sachs2used a tube-in-tube technique to manage a partially severed nasotracheal tube during orthognathic surgery in 1986. Moreover, in this article, the tube-in-tube study in table 1 gives the best sizes for the inner tubes that correspond to the sizes for the outer tubes. It has been shown that the outer diameter of the ETT for a given internal diameter from different manufacturers varies because of differences in wall thickness.5Therefore, these results may be only suitable for the ETTs tested by the authors.Just as the authors have found, a main disadvantage of the tube-in-tube technique is increased resistance to ventilation because of small internal diameter of an inner tuber. We had used a modified method to establish emergency airway after a size 7.5-wire-reinforced ETT was perforated by biting in a patient undergoing face and neck scar resection under the lateral position. The destructed wire-reinforced ETT and a size 5.0 cuffed polyvinyl chloride ETT (used as an inner tube) are cut at 0.5–1.0 cm distal to the site of attachment of the external inflation tube of the cuff (figs. 1A and B). The shortened inner tube is adequately lubricated and inserted into the destructed wire-reinforced ETT until the midpoint of the cuff of the inner tube is located at the damage site of the wire-reinforced ETT (fig. 1C). Subsequently, the cuff of the inner tube is inflated, and the inner tube is connected to the circle breathing system by the standard connector. During the intermittent positive pressure ventilation with a tidal volume of 10 ml/kg, a ventilatory frequency of 10 breaths/min, an inspiratory time-respiratory cycle time ratio of 1:2, and a fresh gas flow of 2.5 l/min, the mean and peak airway pressures observed were 9 cm H2O and 21 cm H2O in this patient.As compared with methods reported by Duma et al. 1and Peskin and Sachs,2we consider that this modified technique has some possible advantages. First, removing the tube connector and the proximal part of destructed wire-reinforced ETT may facilitate insertion of an inner tube. Second, except for the radius of the ETT and density of gas, the length of the ETT is another important contributing factor to airflow resistance.6Therefore, shortening the length of the inner tube can significantly decrease ventilation resistance. Third, inflating the cuff of the inner tube can firmly secure stabilization of the two tubes together and avoid airway leakage without requiring any auxiliary maneuver or tool.Finally, it must be emphasized that when ETT perforation or rupture accidentally occurs during surgery, the tube-in-tube technique can only be used as a temporary rescue airway measure, especially for the patients with a large body weight. If the tear in the ETT is small and it may be possible to approximate the damage site of the ETT, moreover, sealing the leak with gauze,7nylon ties, adhesive tape, or finger4are also alternatives to emergency airway management to obtain a functional ETT. However, once this condition is allowed, the ETT exchange should be performed as soon as possible.4*Plastic Surgery Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, People's Republic of China. fruitxue@yahoo.com.cn

2009 Visualization Challenge

### Also Online See the slide show : The [winners and honorable mentions][1], including video clips Read about the winners in the [illustration][2], [interactive media][3], [noninteractive media][4], [information graphics][5], and [photography][6] categories Science Podcast : [This week's show [MP3]][7] includes a segment on the Visualization Challenge Sometimes scientific information can be vividly represented with commonplace materials. Take the illustration on the cover of this issue of Science . It is a three-dimensional art installation made from 75,000 cable zip ties depicting the dynamic relationships between endothelial cells and their surrounding microenvironment. Or turn to page 950 for a description of how cotton batting, a clothesline, and sewing pins are used in a video to illustrate the impact of the environment on gene expression. The sculpture and video are among the awardees in this year's International Science & Engineering Visualization Challenge. Clearly, the convergence of art and science can successfully convey complex phenomena in spectacular ways. For the past 7 years, Science and the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) have co-sponsored annual challenges to promote cutting-edge efforts to visualize scientific data, principles, and findings. The visualization challenge is intended to showcase and encourage this kind of work. This year's entries present a bold and unique look at life, from the broad view of planet Earth, to a more intimate picture of activity inside the human brain. We received 130 entries from 14 countries, 23 U.S. states, and the District of Columbia. A committee of staff members from Science and NSF screened the entries, and an outside panel of experts in scientific visualization reviewed the finalists and selected the winners. The winning entries appear on the following pages. We encourage you to submit applications for next year's challenge, details of which will be available at [www.nsf.gov/news/scivis][8], and to join us in celebrating this year's winners. Tarri Joyner of NSF organized this year's challenge. Michael Torrice of Science 's news staff wrote the text that accompanies the images in this special section, and Martyn Green, Tara Marathe, and Andrew Whitesell put together a special Web presentation at [www.sciencemag.org/special/vis2009/][9]. Donna Cox University of Illinois Urbana, IL Thomas Lucas Thomas Lucas Productions Inc. Ossining, NY Alisa Zapp Machalek National Institute of General Medical Sciences Bethesda, MD Corinne Sandrone Johns Hopkins School of Medicine Baltimore, MD Tierney Thys National Geographic Emerging Explorer Carmel, CA Thomas Wagner Cryosphere Science Program, NASA Washington, DC [1]: http://www.sciencemag.org/special/vis2009/show/ [2]: http://www.sciencemag.org/cgi/content/full/327/5968/946 [3]: http://www.sciencemag.org/cgi/content/full/327/5968/949 [4]: http://www.sciencemag.org/cgi/content/full/327/5968/950 [5]: http://www.sciencemag.org/cgi/content/full/327/5968/953 [6]: http://www.sciencemag.org/cgi/content/full/327/5968/954 [7]: http://podcasts.aaas.org/science_podcast/SciencePodcast_100219.mp3 [8]: http://www.nsf.gov/news/scivis [9]: http://www.sciencemag.org/special/vis2009/

Shear Capacity of the Flange-Web Intersections of Brick Masonry Nonrectangular Sections

The monolithic structural action of various types of walls of flanged cross section and walls with engaged stiffeners or returns (nonrectangular sections) is critically dependent on the shear capacity of the interface between the components making up the section. An assessment of the shear capacity of the interface may also be required as part of the elastic or inelastic analysis of structural elements. Observation of past earthquake events has confirmed that effectively connected flanges also directly influence the seismic performance of nonrectangular sections by providing a more robust and seismically resistant structural element. To analyze the significance of the parameters that influence the vertical shear resistance of interfaces of flanged sections of masonry obtained using different types of bonding and bonding patterns (header units, shear connectors, and wire ties), a series of specimens with H-shaped cross sections was tested. The vertical shear capacity of the interface at the flange-web intersection was assessed in each case and compared to predicted code capacities. Considerable strength reserves and shear ductility were observed in almost all cases. Following the experimental study, a numerical investigation was carried out using a simplified micromodeling finite element approach. It showed that both the size of the specimen as well as the boundary and applied loading conditions on the flanges can significantly influence the observed vertical shear resistance of the interfaces of specimens with the same bonding pattern. Using the results of the numerical investigation, the critical parameters for a test to determine the vertical shear capacity of brick masonry nonrectangular cross sections are assessed and the governing parameters for a suitable shear test suggested.

Mathematics in the Mountains: The Park City Mathematics Institute

It's noon. A Fields medalist, master high school teachers from the US and abroad, aspiring undergraduate and gradu ate students, gifted expositors of mathematics, and mathe matical artists gather at tables under a tent. Lunch and so much more is served at these meetings of the minds. This cross-pollination of mathematicians from many walks of life is the hallmark of the Park City Mathematics Institute (PCMI). One of the great things about PCMI is that it gives participants opportunities to interact with people from differ ent parts of the mathematical community, enthused Professor Jessica Sidman of Mt. Holyoke College, who was one of the undergraduate lecturers this year, wish I had known about it when I was an undergraduate. Coming from a small liberal arts college, I essentially didn't have substantive interactions with graduate students until I became one! Each summer since 1994 the Institute for Advanced Study in Princeton has spon sored this unique mathematics event in Park City, Utah. For three weeks mathematics researchers, scholars, undergraduate and graduate students, as well as mathematics educators at the secondary level, gather for research, study, and diversions (mathematical and otherwise) in Park City, a setting of breath taking mountain scenery and outdoor opportunities. pro gram is supported by the National Science Foundation, the National Security Agency and a host of smaller public and pri vate grants. Every year PCMI has a theme; this past year it was Ana lytic and Algebraic Geometry: Common Problems Different Methods. undergraduate program had a three week long lecture course by David Perkinson of Reed College on algebraic geometry designed to be accessible to rising soph omores. The Undergraduate Summer School is an extraordi nary opportunity. It provides students with a broad overview of a subject and introduces them to the wider mathematical com munity, commented Perkinson .After seeing this program firsthand, I will routinely encourage our students to attend. In addition, three one-week seminars on topics in algebraic PCMI participants put the finishing touches on a truncated icosahedron assembled out of CDs and cable ties. Noted

Storm-generated coral fragments – A viable source of transplants for reef rehabilitation

Coral reefs throughout the world have been damaged by storms, diseases, coral predators, temperature anomalies, and human activities. During the past three decades, recovery has been limited and patchy. Although a damaged coral reef cannot be restored to its original condition, interest in reef restoration is increasing. In a pilot project in the Caribbean (US Virgin Islands), storm-produced fragments of Acropora palmata, A. cervicornis, and Porites porites were collected from donor reefs and transplanted to nearby degraded reefs. Sixty coral fragments were attached to dead-coral substrate (usually A. palmata skeletons), at similar depths from which they had been collected (1–3.5 m), using nylon cable ties. Seventy-five intact colonies were designated as controls. Study colonies were assessed at 6-month intervals for 2 years (1999–2001) and annually thereafter (through 2004). One-fourth of the 135 colonies and fragments monitored were alive at the conclusion of the 5-year study. Survival of control and transplanted A. cervicornis and P. porites was very low (median survival 2.4 and 1.8 years, respectively), with no significant differences between transplant and control colonies. Site and depth did not contribute significantly to A. palmata colony survival, but colony size and transplant/control status did. Probability of survival increased with colony size. Median survival for A. palmata was 1.3 years for transplant and 4.3 years for natural colonies when not controlled for size. A. palmata was the only viable candidate for reef rehabilitation. Storm swells were the primary cause of mortality.

A randomized controlled trial on cross-infection control in maxillofacial trauma surgery: A comparison of intermaxillary fixation techniques

Glove perforations and percutaneous injuries occur commonly during the treatment of facial fractures and reveal the need for safer techniques, especially in intermaxillary fixation. The Rapid IMF device does not use any wires and may provide better cross-infection control than wiring methods. The aim of this study was to test the hypothesis that Rapid IMF is associated with fewer glove perforations/ percutaneous injuries than traditional wiring techniques. The authors carried out a randomized controlled trial which included 120 patients with fractures of the mandible requiring open reduction and fixation. The participants were allocated either to the study group and treated with intraoperative Rapid IMF or to the control group and managed with intraoperative eyelet wire ties. Analysis of the results showed that the Rapid IMF group had significantly fewer glove perforations than the traditional method (0.67 per operation compared with 1.5), (P<0.0001). The incidence of skin-penetrating injuries was the same in both groups (rate 0.02/ procedure). The application of Rapid IMF was significantly faster than wiring (P<0.0001). Minor intraoperative complications were noted in both groups, but more in the Rapid IMF group. Most concerned loosening or fracture of the anchorage ties but the surgical outcome was not affected. Rapid IMF is a safer alternative to wiring methods with significant reduction in glove perforation rates and is quicker to apply than conventional wiring techniques.

A Novel Alternative to Open Conversion for Type 1 Endoleak Resulting in Ruptured Aneurysm

In this article, a novel technique for the treatment of ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm secondary to proximal type 1 endoleak as a result of progressive neck dilatation after endovascular aneurysm repair is reported. A 74-year-old man with multiple comorbidities including severe ischemic heart disease, congestive cardiac failure, and chronic renal failure presented with a ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm. He had an infrarenal endovascular aneurysm repair performed in 1999 and had subsequently developed a proximal type 1 endoleak. At open laparotomy, the placement of 4 nylon ties around the infrarenal aneurysm neck to refashion a seal and exclude the sac from systemic pressurization effectively treated the rupture. In the high-risk patient, ruptured proximal type 1 endoleak can be successfully treated with external banding avoiding the potential morbidity seen with the aortic clamping and blood loss of open conversion.

Evaluation of partial root-zone drying for potential field use as a deficit irrigation technique in commercial vineyards according to two different pipeline layouts

The use of partial root-drying (PRD) irrigation implies doubling pipelines instead of using a conventional single pipeline. However, pipelines can be spaced a short distance apart (e.g. 1 m) along the vine row (“D” layout) or joined with cable ties and laid as a single pipeline (“S” layout). Pipelines in “S” configuration are laid under the vine row, and in “D” at both sides of the vine row. These two different layouts can change the wetted soil zone and affect grapevine response to irrigation. The focus of this study was therefore on establishing the role of pipeline layout in vine-grape (cv. ‘Tempranillo’) response under semi-arid conditions in which PRD is managed as a deficit irrigation technique. Six irrigation treatments were applied, which resulted from the combination of Control (C, full irrigation), PRD and seasonal sustained deficit irrigation (SSDI), and “S” and “D” pipeline layouts. SSDI and PRD were irrigated to 50% C throughout the irrigation season, and C irrigation was scheduled according to a crop water balance technique. Midday stem water potential (Ψstem) and leaf conductance (gl) indicated that, on the whole, PRD treatments had a slightly higher water status than SSDI treatments, but a substantially lower status than C treatments. Use of the “D” pipeline layout significantly reduced Ψstem in both PRD and SSDI treatments and in some instances for Control conditions, too. Berry yield, vine intercepted radiation, leaf abscisic acid (ABA) and gl were highly correlated with Ψstem. Differences in water status between PRD-S and SSDI-S, according to a sub-surface irrigation test, seemed to be more related to changes in soil evaporation losses and irrigation efficiency than to any intrinsic PRD effect. PRD-S accounted for water savings equivalent to 10% according to the ratio between applied water and grape production for the SSDI-S treatment, whereas PRD-D berry yield was not significantly different from that associated with the SSDI-S treatment. In conclusion, under the growing conditions of this experiment, PRD-S offered the possibility of slightly improving water conservation when irrigation was applied to the soil surface.