The effects of mesoscale eddies on the subduction and distribution of the North Pacific Subtropical Mode Water (STMW) are investigated using an eddy-resolving ocean general circulation model (OGCM). First, the subduction rate is calculated and the contribution of eddies to the subduction of STMW is estimated. It is found that eddy subduction significantly contributes to the total subduction of STMW. Second, eddy thickness transport and diapycnal flux are directly diagnosed to investigate the large-scale eddy-induced transport process of STMW. The large southward eddy thickness transport in the STMW core density is consistent with eddy subduction. The eddy transport on the isopycnal surface of STMW is directed down the thickness gradient and traverses the mean flow. The meridional eddy transport streamfunction indicates two eddy circulation cells south of 30°N, associated with the circulation of STMW. These cells flatten density surfaces, similar to the effect of the Gent and McWilliams (GM) scheme. The subducted STMW is gradually dissipated to lower or higher densities in the main thermocline, basically by vertical diffusion. Finally, local processes of eddy subduction and transport of STMW are explored using an anticyclonic eddy. Results imply two possible local processes of the eddy subduction of STMW. One is the destruction of a potential vorticity (PV) gradient by eddy mixing, where the PV gradient is due to winter deep mixed layer formation. The other is the southward translation of anticyclonic eddies that accompany low PV.

Our results suggest that the XbaI site polymorphism is associated with curve severity. DNA analysis may predict curve progression.

Our previous study showed that gamma interferon (IFN-␥), a T-helper 1 (Th1)-type cytokine, plays a detrimental role in

The clinical results and complications of the vascularized fibular graft for the reconstruction of various long bone defects were reviewed in 60 cases. Bony reconstruction was achieved in 57 of the 60 cases; however, various postoperative complications occurred in 54 percent of the cases. One case of arterial thrombosis of an anastomosed vessel and nine cases of venous congestion of the monitoring flap occurred in the early postoperative periods. The authors managed the nine cases of venous congestion of the flap conservatively, and all flaps survived. Partial necrosis of the flap was noted in eight of these nine cases, but additional surgical intervention was required in only four cases. Treatment included a gastrocnemius musculocutaneous flap in one case and a full-thickness skin graft in three cases. The vascularized fibula survived and bony fusion was achieved in all of these cases. The one case of arterial thrombosis resulted in graft failure due to a delay in the decision to perform a thrombectomy. Graft fracture occurred in 13 cases as the mechanical stress to the graft increased. In two cases of femoral reconstruction, graft fracture occurred during dynamization of the graft, despite the use of an Ilizarov external fixator. Correct alignment between the recipient bone and the external fixator is a prerequisite to preventing graft fracture. Vascularized fibular grafting offers the patient a great deal of benefit; however, this graft has a concomitant high risk of complications. Great attention to detail must be paid to prevent postoperative complications.