bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phosphorylation of ERK in Neurokinin 1 Receptor-Expressing Neurons in Laminae III and IV of the Rat Spinal Dorsal Horn Following Noxious Stimulation
Authors: Polgár Erika , Campbell Annie D , MacIntyre Lynsey M , Watanabe Masahiko , Todd Andrew J
Published: February 2007

Background:

There is a population of large neurons with cell bodies in laminae III and IV of the spinal dorsal horn which express the neurokinin 1 receptor (NK1r) and have dendrites that enter the superficial laminae. Although it has been shown that these are all projection neurons and that they are innervated by substance P-containing (nociceptive) primary afferents, we know little about their responses to noxious stimuli. In this study we have looked for phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERKs) in these neurons in response to different types of noxious stimulus applied to one hindlimb of anaesthetised rats. The stimuli were mechanical (repeated pinching), thermal (immersion in water at 52°C) or chemical (injection of 2% formaldehyde).

Results:

Five minutes after each type of stimulus we observed numerous cells with phosphorylated ERK (pERK) in laminae I and IIo, together with scattered positive cells in deeper laminae. We found that virtually all of the lamina III/IV NK1r-immunoreactive neurons contained pERK after each of these stimuli and that in the great majority of cases there was internalisation of the NK1r on the dorsal dendrites of these cells. In addition, we also saw neurons in lamina III that were pERK-positive but lacked the NK1r, and these were particularly evident in animals that had had the pinch stimulus.

Conclusion:

Our results demonstrate that lamina III/IV NK1r-immunoreactive neurons show receptor internalisation and ERK phosphorylation after mechanical, thermal or chemical noxious stimuli.
Dynamics of in silico leukocyte rolling, activation, and adhesion
Authors: Tang Jonathan , Ley Klaus F , Hunt C Anthony
Published: February 2007

Background

We present a multilevel, agent based, in silico model that represents the dynamics of rolling, activation, and adhesion of individual leukocytes in vitro. Object-oriented software components were designed, verified, plugged together, and then operated in ways that represent the molecular and cellular mechanisms believed responsible for leukocyte rolling and adhesion. The result is an in silico analogue of an experimental in vitro system. The experimentally measured, phenotypic attributes of the analogue were compared and contrasted to those of leukocytes in vitro from three different experimental conditions.

Results

The individual in silico dynamics of "rolling" on simulated P-selectin, and separately on simulated VCAM-1, were an acceptable match to individual in vitro distance-time and velocity-time measurements. The analogues are also able to represent the transition from rolling to adhesion on P-selectin and VCAM-1 in the presence of GRO-α chemokine. The individual in silico and in vitro behavioral similarities translated successfully to population level measures. These behavioral similarities were enabled in part by subdividing the functionality of the analogue's surface into 600 independent, "cell"-controlled, equally capable modules of comparable functionality.

Conclusion

The overlap in phenotypic attributes of our analogue with those of leukocytes in vitro confirm the considerable potential of our model for studying the key events that determine the behavioral outcome of individual leukocytes during rolling, activation, and adhesion. Our results provide an important foundation and framework for future in silico research into plausible causal links between well-documented, subcellular molecular level events and the variety of systemic phenotypic attributes that distinguish normal leukocyte adhesion from abnormal disease-associated adhesion.
Early onset pauciarticular arthritis is the major risk factor for naproxen-induced pseudoporphyria in juvenile idiopathic arthritis
Authors: Schäd Susanne G , Kraus Andrea , Haubitz Imme , Trcka Jiri , Hamm Henning , Girschick Hermann J
Published: February 2007

Pseudoporphyria (PP) is characterized by skin fragility, blistering and scarring in sun-exposed skin areas without abnormalities in porphyrin metabolism. The phenylpropionic acid derivative group of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, especially naproxen, is known to cause PP. Naproxen is currently one of the most prescribed drugs in the therapy of juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA). The prevalence of PP was determined in a 9-year retrospective study of children with JIA and associated diseases. In addition, we prospectively studied the incidence of PP in 196 patients (127 girls and 69 boys) with JIA and associated diseases treated with naproxen from July 2001 to March 2002. We compared these data with those from a matched control group with JIA and associated diseases not treated with naproxen in order to identify risk factors for development of PP. The incidence of PP in the group of children taking naproxen was 11.4%. PP was particularly frequent in children with the early-onset pauciarticular subtype of JIA (mean age 4.5 years). PP was associated with signs of disease activity, such as reduced haemoglobin (<11.75 g/dl), and increased leucocyte counts (>10,400/μl) and erythocyte sedimentation rate (>26 mm/hour). Comedications, especially chloroquine intake, appeared to be additional risk factors. The mean duration of naproxen therapy before the onset of PP was 18.1 months, and most children with PP developed their lesions within the first 2 years of naproxen treatment. JIA disease activity seems to be a confounding factor for PP. In particular, patients with early-onset pauciarticular JIA patients who have significant inflammation appear to be prone to developing PP upon treatment with naproxen.
Induction of epithelial to mesenchymal transition in PMC42-LA human breast carcinoma cells by carcinoma-associated fibroblast secreted factors
Authors: Lebret Stephanie C , Newgreen Donald F , Thompson Erik W , Ackland M Leigh
Published: February 2007

Background

Breast carcinoma is accompanied by changes in the acellular and cellular components of the microenvironment, the latter typified by a switch from fibroblasts to myofibroblasts.

Methods

We utilised conditioned media cultures, Western blot analysis and immunocytochemistry to investigate the differential effects of normal mammary fibroblasts (NMFs) and mammary cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) on the phenotype and behaviour of PMC42-LA breast cancer cells. NMFs were obtained from a mammary gland at reduction mammoplasty, and CAFs from a mammary carcinoma after resection.

Results

We found greater expression of myofibroblastic markers in CAFs than in NMFs. Medium from both CAFs and NMFs induced novel expression of α-smooth muscle actin and cytokeratin-14 in PMC42-LA organoids. However, although conditioned media from NMFs resulted in distribution of vimentin-positive cells to the periphery of PMC42-LA organoids, this was not seen with CAF-conditioned medium. Upregulation of vimentin was accompanied by a mis-localization of E-cadherin, suggesting a loss of adhesive function. This was confirmed by visualizing the change in active β-catenin, localized to the cell junctions in control cells/cells in NMF-conditioned medium, to inactive β-catenin, localized to nuclei and cytoplasm in cells in CAF-conditioned medium.

Conclusion

We found no significant difference between the influences of NMFs and CAFs on PMC42-LA cell proliferation, viability, or apoptosis; significantly, we demonstrated a role for CAFs, but not for NMFs, in increasing the migratory ability of PMC42-LA cells. By concentrating NMF-conditioned media, we demonstrated the presence of factor(s) that induce epithelial-mesenchymal transition in NMF-conditioned media that are present at higher levels in CAF-conditioned media. Our in vitro results are consistent with observations in vivo showing that alterations in stroma influence the phenotype and behaviour of surrounding cells and provide evidence for a role for CAFs in stimulating cancer progression via an epithelial-mesenchymal transition. These findings have implications for our understanding of the roles of signalling between epithelial and stromal cells in the development and progression of mammary carcinoma.
DarkHorse: a method for genome-wide prediction of horizontal gene transfer
Authors: Podell Sheila , Gaasterland Terry
Published: February 2007

A new approach to rapid, genome-wide identification and ranking of horizontal transfer candidate proteins is presented. The method is quantitative, reproducible, and computationally undemanding. It can be combined with genomic signature and/or phylogenetic tree-building procedures to improve accuracy and efficiency. The method is also useful for retrospective assessments of horizontal transfer prediction reliability, recognizing orthologous sequences that may have been previously overlooked or unavailable. These features are demonstrated in bacterial, archaeal, and eukaryotic examples.
Progress in Governance of Converging Technologies Integrated from the Nanoscale
Authors: ROCO MIHAIL C.
Published: February 2007

Abstract:  It is expected that convergence of nanotechnology, modern biology, the digital revolution, and cognitive sciences will bring about tremendous improvements in transformative tools, generate new products and services, enable human personal abilities and social achievements, and in time reshape societal relationships. This article focuses on the progress made in governance of such converging, emerging technologies that are integrated with more traditional technologies. The proposed framework for governance calls for several key functions: supporting the transformative impact; advancing responsible development that includes health, safety, and ethical concerns; encouraging national and global partnerships; and commitment to long‐term planning with effects on human development. Principles of good governance include participation of all those involved or affected by the new technologies, transparency, participant responsibility, and effective strategic planning. Introduction and management of converging technologies must be done with respect for immediate concerns (such as information technology privacy, access to medical advancements, and addressing toxicity of new nanomaterials) and longer‐term concerns (such as human development and concern for human integrity, dignity, and welfare). Four levels of governance of converging technologies have been identified: (a) adapting existing regulations and organizations; (b) establishing new programs, regulations, and organizations specifically to handle converging technologies; (c) national policies and institutional capacity building; and (d) international agreements and partnerships.
Transformative Concepts in Scientific Convergence
Authors: BAINBRIDGE WILLIAM SIMS
Published: February 2007

Abstract: This article suggests eight high‐level concepts that can promote convergence by identifying analogies across fields of science and engineering.Conservation: Many properties are conserved, through symmetries, parity laws, and feedback‐regulated stabilities in complex adaptive systems.Indecision: Inconsistency, undecidability, uncertainty, chance, deterministic chaos, and similar concepts are fundamental principles in the dynamics of systems over time.Configuration: Detailed, dynamic structures of objects determine their properties, notably the unity of nature at the nanoscale.Interaction: Elements of a system influence each other, generating higher‐level dynamics and other emergent phenomena.Variation: Statistical distributions of properties are caused by the combination of chance and divergent processes of interaction.Evolution: Marked by drift, natural selection, and a trend toward greater complexity, evolution exploits variation to develop new configurations that compete through interactions.Information: Scientific laws can be analyzed in terms of information content, and flow, while the doing of any science today relies heavily upon information technology.Cognition: Mental or computational process is the dynamic aspect of information, fundamental to the human practice of science.
Designing Highly Flexible and Usable Cyberinfrastructures for Convergence
Authors: HERR BRUCE W. , HUANG WEIXIA , PENUMARTHY SHASHIKANT , BÖRNER KATY
Published: February 2007

Abstract: This article presents the results of a 7‐year‐long quest into the development of a “dream tool” for our research in information science and scientometrics and more recently, network science. The results are two cyberinfrastructures (CI): TheCyberinfrastructure for Information Visualizationand theNetwork Workbenchthat enjoy a growing national and interdisciplinary user community. Both CIs use the cyberinfrastructure shell (CIShell) software specification, which defines interfaces between data sets and algorithms/services and provides a means to bundle them into powerful tools and (Web) services. In fact, CIShell might be our major contribution to progress in convergence. Just as Wikipedia is an “empty shell” that empowers lay persons to share text, a CIShell implementation is an “empty shell” that empowers user communities to plug‐and‐play, share, compare and combine data sets, algorithms, and compute resources across national and disciplinary boundaries. It is argued here that CIs will not only transform the way science is conducted but also will play a major role in the diffusion of expertise, data sets, algorithms, and technologies across multiple disciplines and business sectors leading to a more integrative science.
Converging Cognitive Enhancements
Authors: SANDBERG ANDERS , BOSTROM NICK
Published: February 2007

Abstract:  Cognitive enhancement, the amplification or extension of core capacities of the mind, has become a major topic in bioethics. But cognitive enhancement is a prime example of a converging technology where individual disciplines merge and issues transcend particular local discourses. This article reviews currently available methods of cognitive enhancement and their likely near‐term prospects for convergence.
Nanotechnology and the Human Future
Authors: CAMERON NIGEL M. de S.
Published: February 2007

Abstract:  The extraordinary potential of nanoscale research and development has yet to be matched in the growth of public awareness of the technology and its implications for society. Groups have emerged that are highly critical of the technology, and others that see it as the key to the radical transformation of human nature itself. Between these extremes, the direction of federal policy has been to encourage the technology while respecting the integrity of the human condition. Experience with genetically modified foods in Europe, where they are widely known as “Frankenfoods,” suggests that wide public acceptance of a new technology is crucial to its economic success. A focus on the ethical, legal, and societal implications of the technology, and especially respect for human nature, is therefore prudent. But it is not enough to fund research on societal questions; respect for the human condition must frame the development of nanotechnology. This article draws upon our experiences with biotechnology to better understand the issues we face as developments in nanotechnology begin to impact society.
Justice, Fairness, and Enhancement
Authors: SAVULESCU JULIAN
Published: February 2007

Abstract:  This article begins by considering four traditional definitions of enhancement, then proposes a fifth, the Welfarist definition. It then considers fairness‐based objections to enhancement, using the example of performance enhancement in sport. In so doing it defines sport and the values proper to it, surveys alternative theories of justice, considers the natural distribution of capabilities and disabilities, and draws a distinction between social, psychological, and biological enhancement. The article advances a new argument that justice requires enhancement.
A Theory of Regret Regulation 1.1
Authors: Pieters Rik , Zeelenberg Marcel
Published: February 2007

We use this opportunity to respond to the issues raised by Inman (2007), and Roese, Summerville, and Fessel (2007) by addressing four broad topics that embrace the most important comments on our regret regulation theory. These topics are the feeling‐is‐for‐doing approach on which regret regulation theory rests, the importance of emotion specificity, factors that modulate the intensity of regret, and the focus on action, inaction and choice in the elicitation of regret. Together this results in a first update, version 1.1.
Jacob Burckhardt's Untimely Observations
Authors: West William N.
Published: February 2007

William N. West is associate professor of English and comparative literary studies at Northwestern University. He has published Theatres and Encyclopedias in Early Modern Europe (2002) and is at work on a book tentatively called Understanding and Confusion in the Elizabethan Theaters as well as on a project tracing the history of the idea of the Renaissance as a period.
Romantic Allegory, Postwar Film, and the Question of Italy
Authors: Luzzi Joseph
Published: February 2007

Joseph Luzzi is assistant professor of Italian at Bard College. He has coedited a special issue on translation for the Yale Journal of Criticism (2003), and his essays have appeared in Comparative Literature, Dante Studies, Italica, MLN, and Studies on Voltaire and the Eighteenth Century. The present essay is from a projected book on Italian cinema in the light of issues in the history of poetics. His recently completed book Romantic Europe and the Ghost of Italy is forthcoming.
Biomedical Engineering Education—A Professional Challenge
Authors: Kipp J E
Published: February 2007

In describing the present situation in the USA, this article discusses problems and possibilities applicable in this country and indeed worldwide
Fracture Reduction System
Authors: Knell L G
Published: February 2007

Recently Developed In The Usa Is A Portable System For The Reduction Of Forearm, Wrist And Lower Leg Fractures. This Article Briefly Describes The System And Its Application
Designing for the Disabled
Authors: Bond W T F
Published: February 2007

A description of work carried out by the Medical Engineering Research Unit at Queen Mary's Hospital for Children, Carshalton, Surrey
Arthroplasty of the Elbow: A New Approach
Authors: Ananthakrishnan C V , Easwaran C V
Published: February 2007

A preliminary report on the design of a prosthesis
A Logical Approach to Project Planning
Authors: Bond W T F
Published: February 2007

A planning method intended to assist with the problems of communication between engineers and the medical profession
A Flow Visualization Study of Prosthetic Aortic and Mitral Heart Valves in a Model of the Aorta and Left Heart
Authors: Wright J T M , Temple L J
Published: February 2007

An in vitro flow visualization study has been carried out on a range of aortic and mitral valve prostheses mounted in rigid, transparent models of the aorta and left ventricle, The valves were subjected to pulsatile flow and the flow patterns produced by each valve were visualized by injecting multi-dye streams into the valve orifice, or by observing illuminated particles suspended in the flow. The patterns were recorded by still photography and high speed cinematography.

In the mitral region each tilting disc valve produced a large vortex which dominated the ventricular cavity. By contrast disc and ball valves each produced an annular vortex, and the bioprosthesis produced a central flow. In the aortic region the flow patterns produced by a tilting disc valve depended on the orientation of the valve in the aorta. The aortic ball valve was found to produce less flow disturbance than either tilting disc valve or the porcine bioprosthesis.
Carbon Fibre Reinforced Ultra-High Molecular Weight Polyethylene for Medical Application
Authors: Bradley J S , Evans E J
Published: February 2007

Ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) has been reinforced with type I and type II carbon fibres by a compression moulding technique. The composite is found to have markedly improved tensile and flexural properties, suggesting that it would be useful both as an improvement to current polyethylene components and as an inducement to more elaborate designs using the composite material.
Elastohydrodynamic Lubrication in Human Joints
Authors: Higginson G. R.
Published: February 2007

Recent developments in the analysis of elastohydrodynamic lubrication (EHL) of solids covered by soft layers, are applied to the big load-bearing human joints. It is concluded that the chances of generating a full film by conventional rolling/sliding EHL are small; but for loads of short duration the squeeze film mechanism looks very promising.

This address, delivered at an Ordinary Meeting of the Institution, in London, on 2 November 1977 is reprinted from Proc. Instn mech. Engrs, 191, 217, (1977).
Diagnostic Ultrasound in Medicine
Authors: Railton R. , Shaw A.
Published: February 2007

The application of ultrasonic technology in medicine has taken place in the last fifteen years and was made possible by far sighted and determined individuals who initially made use of industrial flaw detection equipment. In the last decade medical ultrasonics has developed into a multi-million pound business and has become an important aid to diagnosis and patient management.

In this article we describe the use of ultrasonics as a method of investigating the internal structures of the body for diagnostic purposes. Other applications of ultrasonics in medicine include humidifiers and the use of instruments based on the Doppler principle for measuring the velocity of blood flowing in vessels.
The Incidence of Fracture in Total Hip Replacement Femoral Components
Authors: Dobbs H. S.
Published: February 2007

The paper reports on the incidence of fracture of the femoral component of total hip replacements in patients at the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital over the period 1963-1976. The average incidence of fracture was approximately 0.2 per cent per year for air melt air cast cobalt chrome components. For vacuum melt vacuum cast components there were no fractures, but because of the small number of insertions with a long follow-up period, this result could have been fortuitous. There was a suggestion that the fracture rate increased with time, but even 0.2 per cent is considered too high.
A Review of the Factors Affecting the Design, Specification and Material Selection of Screws for Use in Orthopaedic Surgery
Authors: Jordan B. A. , Hughes A. N.
Published: February 2007

The literature on all aspects of design and performance of surgical screws has been reviewed. This information has then been used to optimize the design of surgical bone screws. Finally, the design of a 4 mm cortical bone screw has been considered in detail.
A Device for Measuring Plantar Pressures under the Sole of the Foot
Authors: Betts R. P. , Duckworth T.
Published: February 2007

An apparatus is described which gives a rapid and detailed picture of the distribution of pressure under the foot with quantitative information, the pressure distribution being displayed as either a continuous grey scale or a colour contour map on a television monitor. A theoretical analysis of the operating principles is given with evidence for its validity, and the practical problems associated with the more detailed aspects of the equipment are discussed.
Fatigue Strength of Cobalt-Base Alloys with High Corrosion Resistance for Artificial Hip Joints
Authors: Lorenz M. , Semlitsch M. , Panic B. , Weber H. , Willert H. G.
Published: February 2007

Loosening of the anchorage in the bone is a problem in hip-joint arthroplasty which up to now has not been entirely solved. In the loosened condition, anchorage stems of artificial joints are subject to alternating overload which causes rupture if the fatigue strength is exceeded by the stress amplitude.

At Sulzer a hip-joint anchorage stem made from wrought CoNiCrMo alloy Protasul-10 has been developed which has substantially higher fatigue strength than stems made from stainless steel of grade AISI-316L or CoCrMo cast alloy. It is therefore essentially safe from fatigue cracking and this offers the possibility of significantly easier removal in case of re-operation after loosening.

This paper deals with some rules to be observed in choice or development of materials for long-term implants subject to fatigue. The results of laboratory investigations on the fatigue behaviour of cobalt-base alloys for surgical implants are discussed.
A Biomechanical Study of the Treatment of Tibial Fractures Using Plaster Casts
Authors: Unsworth A , Shannon F T
Published: February 2007

The treatment of fractures of the tibial shaft by closed reduction and external fixation, usually employs plaster-of-Paris stabilization. This is effected by one of two techniques: the traditional toe to groin padded cast, which still enjoys widespread popularity and the Sarmiento patellar tendon bearing cast which offers excellent functional results. Some doubts have been expressed about the ability of the Sarmiento cast to provide sufficient stability for the fractured tibia and so the present study compares the stability of tibial fractures treated conventionally with those treated in a patellar tendon bearing cast. Experimental transverse fractures were produced in the tibia and fibula of seventeen above knee amputation specimens which were then subjected to bending and torsional loads. Each specimen was fractured through the mid-tibia and immobilized either in a conventional long leg cast moulded over two thicknesses of orthopaedic wool or in the Sarmiento moulded cast without padding. The immobilized leg was tested by supporting the leg at a fixed span and centrally loading the cast anteroposteriorly over the fracture site. A maximum bending moment of 50 Nm was applied. After clamping the upper femur, torsional moments were applied to the foot. After changing the type of plaster on the specimen the same experiments were repeated. Angulation and anteroposterior displacement was plotted against bending torque for both types of cast. The results showed that the Sarmiento cast provided stability at least equal to that of the conventional cast.
The Mechanical and Structural Properties of Reinforcing Materials used in Prosthetic Herniorrhaphy
Authors: Minns R J , Stevens D C , Gore D M , Tinckler L F
Published: February 2007

Three types of reinforcing material that are used in herniorrhaphy were tested by biaxial straining to obtain their load-extension properties. Steel mesh was by far the stiffest material, followed by porcine skin, then Mersilene mesh, when tested by suturing around their periphery. The Mersilene mesh and porcine skin failed around the holes made by the suture, whilst the sutures failed when used with the steel mesh.
Measurement and Analysis of Hip Joint Movements
Authors: Gore T A , Flynn M , Stevens J
Published: February 2007

The design and construction of an electrogoniometer for measuring angular displacements of the hip is discussed. Data from the goniometer are recorded on magnetic tape and are processed and printed out in graphical format by mini-computer. Sample results are presented for normal and arthritic subjects involved in a number of activities, namely level walking, climbing and descending stairs, and sitting and rising from a chair. It is intended that the goniometer be used to provide prognostic and therapeutic guidelines in the clinical environment.
Muscle Strengths and Musculoskeletal Geometry of the Upper Limb
Authors: Amis A A , Dowson D , Wright V
Published: February 2007

A survey of past literature has shown that there is a lack of reliable data for use in prediction of joint forces in the upper limb although this is desirable when developing joint replacements. Upper limb geometry has been analysed, leading to muscle moment arm data at the wrist and elbow. The variation of these moment arms during elbow flexion has also been examined. Analysis of the dimensions of muscles has enabled their relative strengths to be predicted, based on their ‘physiological cross-sections’. When used in conjuction with published emg data, this information will enable elbow and wrist joint forces to be estimated more realistically than has previously been possible.
Dimensions of the Metacarpo-Phalangeal Joint with Particular Reference to Joint Prostheses
Authors: Unsworth A , Alexander W J
Published: February 2007

Sixty metacarpo-phalangeal joints were dissected and investigated to determine the shape, size and position of the articular surfaces with respect to the medullary canals of the metacarpal and the phalanx.

The results show that the articular surfaces of the metacarpo-phalangeal joint have a single centre of rotation in the sagital plane and in the transverse plane. The joints of the little and ring fingers have radii of curvature in the sagital and transverse planes, which are almost equal (within 1.6 per cent) while those radii of the middle finger varied by 9 per cent. The index finger had a variation in radius from the sagital to the transverse plane of almost 13 per cent; the sagital plane radius being the greatest. This observation is the opposite of the other joints where the transverse radius is the greater one.

The overall widths of the metacarpal heads were seen to vary from 13 mm in the little finger of females to 17 mm in the index finger of males (average).

The medullary canals had axes which were not coincident with the centre of rotation of the joint but up to 3 mm displaced from it. These dimensional differences have important implications in prosthesis design.
Continuous Tissue Pressure Monitor
Authors: Shaw B H
Published: February 2007

A simple laboratory instrument is described for giving continuous readout of interface pressures arising between body tissues and a support system. The sensor used is a rapidly available pneumatic capsule type, but which as normally used only gives single readings. The instrument described allows varying pressures to be studied. The instrument would also have application to pressure measurements under dressings or clothing.
A Study of the Duration of Load-Bearing under Different Areas of the Foot
Authors: Miller G F , Stokes I A F
Published: February 2007

This paper presents a method of studying the time course of load-bearing under selected areas of the foot during walking. The suitability of the sensors and the reliability of the technique have been demonstrated.

The study has shown that the pattern of load-bearing in normal individuals varies from step to step and from day to day. The pattern of load-bearing in normal feet has been compared with the pattern in the feet of patients with symptomatic hallux valgus and significant differences have been demonstrated.

The method is currently being used to monitor the changes occurring after surgery for hallux valgus. The early results of this study suggest that it is possible to detect changes which correlate with those to be expected from clinical observation.
External Fracture Fixation—the Analysis and Design of a New System
Authors: Kenwright J , Harris J D , Evans M
Published: February 2007

External skeletal fixation of long bone fractures is the procedure of choice for the treatment of certain clearly established types of fracture. In particular, it is appropriate when the skin and soft tissue at the site of the fracture is at risk and requires careful management.

For sound bone union to be achieved correct orientation and stability of the fracture is needed. A rigid fixation method is therefore required, and this rigidity determines the degree of post-operative mobility that the patient can exercise during the healing phase.

A single-sided fixation system when applied, for example, to the medial aspect of the tibia, which gives adequate skeletal support, would be preferred to a double-sided unit as it would not inhibit the action of muscles, would reduce the number of pin holes, and be more convenient for the patient.

From experience with existing equipment available for this surgical technique, a specification to meet the performance criteria needed was drawn up, and from this a design emerged giving priority to aspects of stiffness and convenience. The report concludes with three case studies of patients treated with this fixator.

A separate paper gives the results of practical tests on this fixator, with a theoretical analysis of the factors which influence stiffness in single-sided fixators, and of the strength which can be expected.
An Experimental Study of Friction and Lubrication in Hip Prostheses
Authors: O'Kelly J , Unsworth A , Dowson D , Wright V
Published: February 2007

McKee-Farrar, Charnley and Muller prostheses have been studied in a hip function simulator using a range of silicone fluids as lubricants. Frictional resistance was measured continuously while the joints were subjected to dynamic loading.

It was observed that the lubricant viscosity was very important to the mode of lubrication prevailing and that for viscosities in excess of 0.1 Pas, full fluid film lubrication was achieved. At viscosities which were less than this, mixed lubrication resulted

These results can be extrapolated to the clinical situation where it was found that after hip surgery for total joint replacement, the synovial fluid produced around the prosthesis had a viscosity which was less than 0.1 Pas, and therefore could not give the most advantageous lubrication in these joints in vivo.
An Investigation into the Uses of a Microcomputer in the Control of a Manipulator for Tetraplegics
Authors: Todd D J
Published: February 2007

A microcomputer controlled manipulator for tetraplegics has been programmed to allow a variety of methods of operation, including direct positioning and preprogrammed actions. The system has been driven from several input devices operated by the head and mouth. A television set is used as a visual display, enabling the controls to be relabelled as the user selects different modes of operation. The use of sensors in the hand permits certain functions, such as grasping, to be carried out automatically.
The ‘Sliding Meniscus’ Knee Prosthesis: Design Concepts
Authors: Minns R J , Campbell J
Published: February 2007

A ‘sliding meniscus’ knee prosthesis is proposed which includes design concepts as a consequence of biomechanical analyses undertaken. The biomechanical techniques included a range of movement study of the knee, knee force mechanics, mechanical testing, photoelastic studies and surface examination for loading and wear areas of the prosthetic components all of which led to a final design shape and size for a total knee joint replacement prosthesis. The prosthesis has a ‘polycentric’ femoral component which does not have to be precisely aligned in the femoral condyle; a tibial plateau which completely covers the cortex around the periphery of the tibia, horizontal alignment is necessary for this component; and four thicknesses of the sliding meniscus component which is congruent in the sagittal plane with the femoral component during load-bearing and flat on its lower surface for decreased wear and contact stress-levels.
The Prediction of Limits to in-Plane Compressive Strain on Human Skin in Respect of Reconstructive Surgery
Authors: Stark H L
Published: February 2007

Reconstructive surgery of the human skin frequently requires angles to be opened or closed. The magnitude of such angular deformation that can be achieved without buckling is highly variable. Pre-operative knowledge of the maximum possible angular deformation would assist design. In vitro tests were carried out to investigate the possibility of a relationship between the in plane uniaxial compressive strain to cause buckling and the angular deformation to cause buckling; as in-plane uniaxial compressive strain is non-destructive and therefore possible pre-operatively. Relationships between the uniaxial and angular deformations to initiate buckling are proposed.
Medical Gases — Piping Problems
Authors: Dinnick O P
Published: February 2007

Discussion meeting of the Engineering in Medicine Section of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers held in London on 24 April 1979
The Corrosion Fatigue of a Molybdenum Ion-Plated Orthopaedic En58J Stainless Steel
Authors: Gregory B , Ozcan R
Published: February 2007

Stainless steel has been used as an orthopaedic implant material for some years. A number of in vivo hip prostheses have been found to fail by fatigue and this paper attempts to investigate the extent to which certain adverse factors of stainless steel implants, made from En58J, could contribute to a poor fatigue life, and whether molybdenum ion-platings could offset such poor performance. Stainless steel in the sensitized condition, and known surface condition, when ion-plated with molybdenum was found to give an improved fatigue life when tested in Ringer's solution.
Simulation: Problems Relating to Mechanical Tests on Hip Joint Replacements
Authors: Gatti A M
Published: February 2007

In hip joint prostheses, one of the problems is the choice of mating materials. In fact the coefficient of friction between the cup surface and the surface of the head should be very small in order to minimize any tendency towards loosening related to friction torques on the cup. A low wear coefficient is also desirable to provide maximum life of the acetabular cup. Failures of some types of hip joint prostheses with respect to these parameters induced us to carry out a series of simulation tests. For evaluation of these mating materials as to wear and friction, two different lines of investigation were followed. The work considers two different cases relating to results obtained by several authors. From the analysis of the different hip joint simulators we have concluded that (i) it is not possible to compare results, (ii) there are even non-suitable simulators, and (iii) the few suitable simulators can also be used in order to obtain an improved surface finish (especially for ceramic materials), before the implantation.
Moiré Contourography and Computer-Aided Replication of Human Anatomy
Authors: Duncan J P , Dean D P , Pate G C
Published: February 2007

After reviewing the potential of photogrammetry for measuring human anatomy we present here the motivation for reproducing in digital form the geometry of shoe lasts of deformed feet of war veterans. The process makes use of a new form of central perspective shadow moiré contourography called pericontourography to produce digital ‘replicas’ of the lasts from which they may be reproduced via a cylindrical coordinate version of polyhedral numerically controlled machining.
An Apparatus to Record the Hydrostatic Pressure Changes Occurring during the Cementation of Dowel-Retained Prostheses
Authors: Turner C H , Gross M J
Published: February 2007

A new apparatus to measure the hydrostatic pressures developed during the cementation of dowel-retained prostheses has been developed and is described. The initial results obtained using this apparatus have been shown to vary from zero if the dowel is coated with cement, to 1.1 times 104 kN/m2 when cement is placed into the prepared hole for an optimally fitting dowel. Avenues of further research using this apparatus are mentioned.
A Terribly Strange Bed
Authors: Morrison D
Published: February 2007

I did not really want to write an article about something which is as yet unfinished, but, since this project is based upon principles common to the design of many features of my intensive care unit, principles which I think should be borne in mind when designing units for the future, I think that it is worth describing the evolution of the project so far.

The very rapid technological advances of the past couple of decades have produced a plethora of gadgets for monitoringphysiological systems and for boosting or replacing defective systems. Many patients owe their lives to artificial ventilation, artificial kidneys, etc. We have become very ambitious in our treatment of life threatening acute illness and are tackling patients with multi-system failure who would have simply been allowed to die twenty years ago. Unfortunately all advances bring new problems.
Joint Space of the Human Knee and Hip Joint under a Static Load
Authors: Terayama K , Takei T , Nakada K
Published: February 2007

In order to study the joint contact and joint space of statically loaded human knee and hip joints, observations of serial slices of joint specimens which were frozen during the application of a load were carried out. In the intact joints, the articular cartilage surfaces did not come into direct contact with each other even under a load of more than twice that of the body weight. The minimum distance between cartilage surfaces in each specimen ranged from 0.2 to 0.6 mm. The Indian ink which was injected into the joints before the load application was squeezed out of some areas of the remaining joint space, but a dye-free fluid apparently remained in this space.

Based on our findings, the definition of joint contact and the lubrication mechanism in the intact human joint have been discussed.
A Simple Method for the Stabilization of Malignant Spines
Authors: Banks A J , Dervin E
Published: February 2007

This paper describes a method of stabilizing the spine severely destroyed by metastatic disease. The method is simple and inexpensive and uses the combination of acrylic cement and a custom made stainless steel bar. A special bending tool is described which is essential for accurate forming of the stainless steel bar.
The Salford Technique for the Treatment of Complicated Tibial Fractures
Authors: Banks A J , Dervin E
Published: February 2007

A simple method of external fixation of tibial fractures is described. Acrylic cement is used to secure the bone screws to the external fixator. The angulation at the fracture site can be easily adjusted by the addition of an auxiliary mechanism which can be removed after completion of any necessary realignment manoeuvre.
Pressure Distribution under the Foot during Static Activities
Authors: Arvikar R , Seireg A
Published: February 2007

The distribution of the ground-to-foot supportive forces at various sites under the foot during static leaning acts are reported in this study. A strain gauge ring transducer assembly was constructed to measure the vertical loads under the five metatarsals, and the heel during forward leaning (tilting of the pelvis on the lower extremities) from the symmetric vertical stance. The distribution of the ground reactions appears to favour the lateral metatarsals with comparatively lower contribution by the structurally larger first metatarsal. The distribution, however, is greatly influenced by the placement of the foot on the transducers— reflecting sensitivity to change in the relative intersegmental geometry and the resulting force/transmission network internally. Similar changes are observed in the theoretically predicted pressure distribution pattern obtained by using a comprehensive three-dimensional foot model.
Intra-Articular Pressures during Joint use — their Changes with Disease and Pathological Consequences
Authors: Jayson M I V
Published: February 2007

The changes in pressure occurring within the knee joint during quadriceps contraction are described. In the presence of effusion and disease there are significant alterations in these pressures and these in turn may modify the course of the disease.
The Telemetered Measurement of Strain on the Surface of a Maxillary Denture in Function
Authors: Morris F , Nowaira N H , Rakowski S , Stafford G D
Published: February 2007

This paper describes the development of a biotelemeter for the measurement of the strain on the surface of a complete maxillary denture. A thick film hybrid circuit has been developed giving up to three channels of strain data from three separate semiconductor strain gauges. The telemeter has a volume of approximately 1.5 cm3 and has been incorporated into a maxillary denture to provide functional assessment of the denture. Recordings of surface strain in the denture have been made from a subject while chewing various foods and these are presented together with a simple analysis of them.
The Relationship between Feed Rate and Point Angle of a Twist Drill Bit When Drilling Bone
Authors: Davis J K , Jackson C J , Scott I
Published: February 2007

The work described in this paper was carried out in two parts. The first part consisted of evaluating the machining constants and the dynamic shear flow strengths of bovine bone from orthogonal cutting and drilling tests. The second part of the work arose from investigation into the thermal effects of drilling human bone during which certain trends were observed when comparing feed rate and point angle for fixed values of thrust. Some measure of agreement was found between these two independent pieces of work. Bera and Bhattacharrya's analytical equation for the thrust produced when drilling metals has been modified for anisotropic materials such as bone.
Transverse Load on the Hip Joint: A Subject for Further Research
Authors: Wroblewski B M
Published: February 2007

Introduction
The Relationship of Width, Thickness, Volume and Load to Extension for Human Skin in Vitro
Authors: Stark H L , Al-Haboubi A
Published: February 2007

The relationships of width, thickness, volume and load to extension for human skin in vitro are reported. The specimens tested exhibited a low stiffness phase followed by a high stiffness phase. Volume rose than fell back to the initial volume at approximately the end of the low stiffness phase, and continued on falling to a final reduction of about 20 per cent at failure. Width decreased throughout, showing a maximum rate of reduction at approximately the end of the low stiffness phase. Thickness increased at a rate which also was maximum at the end of the low stiffness phase. The specimens used were long compared with their width and thickness thus offering no constraint to lateral contraction. An interpretation of this data in respect of the behaviour of the collagen fibre matrix is postulated.
An Evaluation of the Ratio between the Tensions along the Quadriceps Tendon and the Patellar Ligament
Authors: Ellis M I , Seedhom B B , Wright V , Dowson D
Published: February 2007

An experiment was devised whereby physiological loads could be applied to the quadriceps tendon of cadaveric knee joints so that the ratio of tensions in the quadriceps tendon and the patellar ligament could be determined. On two knee joints, radiographs were taken before testing, so that the theoretical ratio of the tensions could be evaluated and compared with the experimental results. As the knee was flexed, the ratio of the tensions, frequently assumed to be unity, reduced by up to fifty per cent.
The Instant Centre Pathway as a Parameter of Joint Motion — An Experimental Investigation of a Method of Assessment of Knee Ligament Injury and Repair
Authors: Harding M L , Blakemore M E
Published: February 2007

Movement under load is the most demanding function required of a diarthrodial joint. This presentation will illustrate, pertinent to the context of this meeting, the effects on a parameter of movement of certain types of knee ligament injury which are supposed to occur in real life, and the assessment of the capacity of different methods of repair to restore the movement to normal.
Properties of Wrought CoNiCrMo Alloy Protasul-10, a Highly Corrosion and Fatigue Resistant Implant Material for Joint Endoprostheses
Authors: Semlitsch M
Published: February 2007

Loosening of prosthetic components in the bone is a problem that has not been fully explored as yet. When loosening has occurred, the metallic anchorage stem may become overloaded and in extreme cases it may ultimately lead to stem fracture if the fatigue limit of the metallic material is exceeded.

In order to preclude the possibility of these undesirable fatigue fractures of loosened prosthesis stems requiring re-operations, the Sulzer research laboratories have developed wrought alloys of extremely high strength and corrosion resistance such as Protasul-10.†

The chemical composition, structure, mechanical properties, corrosion resistance and present state of the art of this implant material, which has been in clinical use since 1971, are specified in national and international standards.