A novel device to measure acetabular inclination with patients in lateral decubitus

The ability to measure acetabular cup orientation accurately during total hip arthroplasty represents a significant challenge. The aim of this research was to develop and evaluate a novel low cost mechanical device for measuring operative acetabular inclination. Cup implantation was simulated in two trials using the novel device: firstly involving surgeons and engineers orientating acetabular cups with sawbone pelves at a range of inclination angles (20°-55° in 5° increments); secondly in a simulated intra-operative scenario with surgeons. Target angles were compared with achieved angles and deviations from desired angles were recorded. In addition, all participants orientated cups under the same conditions using two other techniques: freehand and with a propriatory Mechanical Alignment Guide. In the first trial, the mean errors (deviations) using freehand technique, the mechanical alignment guide and the new device were 5.2° +/- 4.3° (range 0.1-22.0), 3.6° +/- 3.9° (range 0.1°-33.6°) and 0.5° +/- 0.4° (range 0.0-1.9) respectively. In the second trial, the mean error for freehand technique, mechanical alignment guide and the new device were 6.2° +/- 4.2° (range 0.2-18.2), 3.8° +/- 3.3° (range 0.0-19.1) and 0.6° +/- 0.5° (range 0.0-1.8) respectively. The new device has the potential to allow the surgeon to choose and record operative inclination accurately during total hip arthroplasty in the lateral decubitus position.

The IQGAP-myosin light chain interaction: what is its function?

The first members of the IQGAP family of proteins were
characterised over 15 years ago. It is now known that these molecules act
at the interface between cellular signalling pathways and the actin
cytoskeleton. They bind to a diverse range of signalling molecules –
including those involved in calcium, GTPase, kinase and growth factor
signalling. One intriguing interaction is that between mammalian
IQGAP1 and the myosin essential light chain isoform, Mlc1sa. Although
this has been demonstrated in vitro, its in vivo role is not known. Indeed,
it would be tempting to dismiss it as an experimental artefact, except for
the existence of a parallel interaction in the budding yeast,
Saccharomyces cerevisae. In this organism, the IQGAP-like protein
(Iqg1p) interacts with a myosin essential light chain (Mlc1p). This interaction is critical for the correct execution of cytokinesis. IQGAP-like
proteins also play key roles in cytokinesis in other fungi. Recent work
implicating mammalian IQGAP1 in cytokinesis may help explain the role
of the interaction in higher eukarytotes.

Supply Chain Management in Confined Site Construction: Strategies to Reduce Delay in the Delivery of Materials to Site

With the increase in construction in dense urban environments, the delays associated with managing the material supply chain to site is called into question. Purpose: The aim of this investigation is to gain the perspective of construction contractors operating in a dense urban environment and the resulting strategies adopted to reduce delays in the delivery of materials to site. Methodology: This is achieved through incorporating a comprehensive literature review on the subject in conjunction with industry interviews with construction professionals in the identification of various management issues and corresponding strategies in the reduction of delays in the delivery of materials to site. Findings: The key issue which emerges is the lack of space for unloading bays while the corresponding key strategy is to schedule deliveries outside peak congestion times. Practical Implication: With confined site construction evident throughout the industry and the noted importance of an effective supply chain, the findings here in further assist on-site management in the daily task of ensuring the effective delivery and off-loading of materials in a complex and hazardous environment. Originality/Value: This research aids on-site management of confined site environments in the coordination of the material supply chain to site.