[New techniques in the operative treatment of calcaneal fractures]. / Neue Techniken in der operativen Versorgung von Calcaneusfrakturen.

The ideal treatment of displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures is still controversially discussed. Because of the variable fracture patterns and the vulnerable soft tissue coverage an individual treatment concept is advisable. In order to minimize wound edge necrosis associated with extended lateral approaches, selected fractures may be treated percutaneously or in a less invasive manner while controlling joint reduction via a sinus tarsi approach. Fixation in these cases is achieved with screws, intramedullary locking nails or modified plates that are slid in subcutaneously. A thorough knowledge of the three dimensional calcaneal anatomy and open reduction maneuvers is a prerequisite for good results with less invasive techniques. Early functional follow-up treatment aims at early rehabilitation independent of the kind of fixation. Peripheral fractures of the talus and calcaneus frequently result from subluxation and dislocation at the subtalar and Chopart joints. They are still regularly overlooked and result in painful arthritis if left untreated. If an exact anatomical reduction of these intra-articular fractures is impossible, resection of small fragments is indicated.

Laser Doppler anemometry measurements in an engine.

A simple and effective technique is reported which allows measurement of the flow field in the cylinder of a motored internal combustion engine with good temporal and spatial resolution. The experiment, a realfringe laser Doppler anemometer, uses photon counting digital autocorrelation for data capture. The experimental autocorrelation functions have been processed using curve-fitting to a Gaussian velocity profile and by direct Fourier transformation without prior assumption of the form. The ability of such a technique to tolerate poor SNRs makes it a likely choice for measurement in firing engines.

CARS measurements in an internal combustion engine.

The first reported coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering (CARS) experiments within the cylinder of a firing internal combustion engine are described. The feasibility of making noninvasive temperature and species measurements, with good spatial and temporal resolution, both before and after ignition has been demonstrated. Temperatures have been derived from the shape of the Q-branch vibrational spectrum of nitrogen since it is present as a major species and does not take part in combustion. Methods of overcoming such problems as were encountered are discussed.

Inexpensive apparatus for the measurement of the temperature dependence of gas phase fluorescence spectra.

An inexpensive and easily constructed cell is reported which allows the observation of gaseous fluorescence spectra over a wide temperature range.