The gradient-index metamaterials are designed to transform the spherical wave-front into the planar wave-front and to minimize the reflection loss. A prototype lens antenna, which consists of a metal conical horn and the gradient-index lens, are simulated, constructed, and measured. The resemblance of simulation and measurement results shows that the prototype lens antenna maintains low return loss and high directivity on the whole X-band (from 8 GHz to 12 GHz). Compared to the traditional

horn antenna, the metamaterial GRIN lens antenna has much superior performance-for instance, the gain increases by 6 dBi at 12 GHz. These results learn more demonstrate the feasibility of such a light weight slab metamaterial lens for broadband and high-directivity antenna applications, such as in radar and communication systems. We have used the lens antennas in the measurements of a three-dimensional invisibility cloak due to the high directivity. (C) 2011 American Institute of Physics. VS-6063 solubility dmso [doi:10.1063/1.3622596]“
“Background: Pancreatic occlusion failure (POF) after distal pancreatectomy remains a common source of morbidity. Here, we review our experience with distal pancreatectomy and attempt to identify factors which influence POF rates.

Patients and Methods: One hundred sixty-nine distal pancreatectomies were performed between 2002 and 2007. Review of the computerized medical records and physician

office records was performed for all patients. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to determine factors which might influence the incidence of POF. The data set was analysed for factors which might influence the pancreatic occlusion rate. Analysis included patient and disease characteristics including: age, gender, body mass index (BMI), diagnosis, consistency of the pancreas and history of pancreatitis, as well as intra-operative variables including: surgeon, absorbable mesh reinforcement and operative approach.

Results: POF was the most common peri-operative

complication. POF was identified in 32 out of 169 patients (19%). Transection technique (hand sewn, stapled, stapled with mesh) and procedure complexity were factors associated with differences A-1210477 in POF rates by both univariate and multivariate analyses. POF was identified in 7 out of 70 patients (10%) when an absorbable mesh was utilized, and 25 of 99 patients (25%) when mesh was not utilized (P < 0.02).

Discussion: These data suggest that a randomized controlled trial will be required to determine if mesh reinforcement reduces the rate and severity of POF after distal pancreatectomy.”
“BACKGROUND: The prevalence, prognostic importance, and factors that predict the presence and degree of pulmonary hypertension (PH) diagnosed with right heart catheterization (RHC) in patients with end-stage chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) remain unclear.