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Altering baseball pitching mechanics affects both performance and the risk of injury. The purpose of this study is to investigate the relationships of shoulder external over internal rotation ratio (SEIR) and other shoulder rotational properties during physical exam and biomechanics of pitching for 177 collegiate baseball pitchers. The shoulder range of motion was quantitatively measured using a custom-made wireless device. Pitching motion data were collected at 240 Hz, and a custom program was created to calculate the throwing arm motion and loading during baseball pitching. Linear regression and analysis of variance tests were performed to investigate the relationships between the shoulder physical exam outcomes and throwing arm biomechanics. SEIR had significant correlations with shoulder horizontal adduction angle at foot contact, maximum shoulder external rotation angle, maximum shoulder linear velocity, and elbow angle at ball release. SEIR groups had significant differences in shoulder proximal force, adduction torque, internal rotation torque, and horizontal adduction torque, and in elbow medial force and varus torque. Glenohumeral internal rotation deficit and total rotational motion deficit had no relationships with throwing arm motions or joint loadings. Shoulder health should be monitored to improve understanding of pitching mechanics in collegiate baseball pitchers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Scintigraphy and Positron Emission Tomography (PET) are both nuclear medicine imaging techniques, providing functional information of the imaged areas. Scintigraphy is a two-dimensional projected imaging technique that was introduced in equine imaging in the late 1970s. Scintigraphy allows imaging of large body parts and can cover multiple areas, remaining the only technique commonly used in horses for whole body imaging. PET is a cross-sectional imaging technique, first used in horses in 2015, allowing higher resolution three-dimensional functional imaging of the equine distal limb. This manuscript will cover current use and values of these two modalities in equine lameness diagnosis.

Increasing evidence is emerging to link age-associated complex musculoskeletal diseases, including osteoarthritis (OA), to developmental factors. Multiple studies have shown a functional role for DNA methylation in the genetic mechanisms of OA risk using articular cartilage samples taken from aged individuals, yet knowledge of temporal changes to the methylome during human cartilage development is limited. We quantified DNA methylation at ∼700,000 individual CpGs across the epigenome of developing human chondrocytes in 72 samples ranging from 7 to 21 post-conception weeks. We identified significant changes in 3% of all CpGs and >8,200 developmental differentially methylated regions. We further identified 24 loci at which OA genetic variants colocalize with methylation quantitative trait loci. Through integrating developmental and mature human chondrocyte datasets, we find evidence for functional effects exerted solely in development or throughout the life course. This will have profound impacts on future approaches to translating genetic pathways for therapeutic intervention. [Display omitted] Emerging evidence supports developmental factors impacting osteoarthritis risk in older age. Here, we quantify the methylome of 72 human fetal knee cartilage samples and identify 24 independent osteoarthritis genetic risk SNVs colocalizing with developmental methylation quantitative trait loci. We report a subset of osteoarthritis epigenetic signatures active during skeletogenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Total joint arthroplasty (TJA) is a common procedure that improves the quality of life for severe arthritis patients. The rising demand for TJA places enormous financial strain on the world's healthcare systems, which is exacerbated by postoperative readmissions for complications such as periprosthetic joint infections (PJIs). We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to determine if asymptomatic bacteriuria (ASB) increases infection risk. Methods: We conducted searches in three databases: PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Screening steps have been carried out according to PRISMA guidelines. The study focused on patients who had undergone TJA and exhibited ASB. Two reviewers independently screened, assessed quality, and extracted data. Meta-analysis used Mantel–Haenszel method. Results: Following full-text screening, 12 studies were deemed eligible for inclusion in the systematic review, encompassing a total of 42,592 patients. A heightened occurrence of PJI was observed among TJA patients with ASB in comparison to controls (OR [95%CI] = 3.47 [1.42–8.44]). However, microorganisms responsible for the PJIs differed from those identified in the urine cultures of ASB. Additionally, analyses indicate that preoperative antibiotic treatment for ASB does not significantly affect the subsequent risk of PJI (OR [95% CI] = 1.00 [0.42–2.39]). Unlike surgical site infection (SSI), which did not show a difference in the rate of occurrence between the two groups, TJA patients with ASB were more likely to experience superficial wound infection (OR [95%CI] = 3.81 [2.02–7.21]). Conclusion: This review and meta-analysis confirm that ASB correlate with heightened risks of PJI and superficial infection in TJA patients. However, no relationship was found between ASB and PJI microorganisms which raise doubts about the role of ASB microorganisms as the direct cause of infection following TJA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates creep behavior of distribution transformer (DT) winding Western Union splice (WUS) joints with and without the use of solder. The creep strain and contact resistance were measured during the creep test, and the life of aluminum and copper wound DTs were calculated. Improper WUS joint increases resistance and creates hot-spot and sparking, which accelerates the steady-state creep rate of WUS joint along with the winding conductor, ultimately reduces the life of DT. This research contributes to the DT manufacturers and electrical industries by addressing a knowledge gap regarding the optimal number of turns and creep performance of DT winding WUS joints. The aluminum and copper winding WUS joints of 25 kVA DT were prepared using 18 and 14 turns, respectively, which were optimized by performing the tensile test. Creep test of winding joints was performed as per ASTM E139-11. Results exhibited a higher steady-state creep rate and more contact resistance of the aluminum winding WUS joints for elevated temperature and stress conditions. Soldering of WUS joints improved the creep life of aluminum wound DTs and showed a lesser increase in contact resistance during creep. The copper winding WUS joint at 140 °C temperature and 55 MPa stress shows that the creep life for DT is much higher compared to the creep life of DTs due to aluminum winding WUS joints with and without solder. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electromagnetic pulse welding (EMPW) is commonly used for welding copper and aluminum alloy. The welding gap is important in the EMPW process. The research focused on the effect of welding gap on the welding process and the mechanical property of joints. During the EMPW experiments, the deformation, collision, and metal jet were recorded with a high-speed camera. The joint mechanical property was tested. SEM and EDS were employed to examine the bonding interface. Results indicated that the welding gap length did not significantly influence the aluminum alloy plate motion behavior when it was long enough. With the welding gap width increasing, the collision velocity initially increased and subsequently decreased, and the angle between the two plates when they first collided increased continuously. The intensity and duration of the metal jet and the joint mechanical properties also increased first and then decreased. The welding marks widened first and then narrowed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Objectives Method Results Conclusion To analyse temporomandibular disorders (TMD), bruxism and well‐being in patients with fibromyalgia and compare these outcomes with a control group.Diagnostic criteria for the assessment of TMD, bruxism and well‐being were used in a clinic context including patients with fibromyalgia (n = 71) and a control group of healthy subjects (n = 151). Participants completed an online questionnaire measuring temporomandibular pain, headache attributed to TMD, jaw locking, joint sounds, headache to bruxism, potential sleep bruxism, potential awake bruxism, jaw functional limitation scale 8 (JFLS‐8), generalised anxiety disorder scale 7, oral health impact profile scale 14, World Health Organization well‐being index (WHO‐5) and Pittsburgh sleep quality index (PSQI).TMD and bruxism were significantly associated with the type of population (χ2 = 8.77–57.62; p < 0.05; ES = 0.20–0.51). Fibromyalgia patients showed higher prevalence (% values) than control group in temporomandibular pain, headache attributed to TMD, jaw locking, headache attributed to potential bruxism, sleep bruxism and awake bruxism. However, there was a greater prevalence of joint sounds in the control group compared to the fibromyalgia group. Also, fibromyalgia patients scored significantly higher (p < 0.001) on JFLS‐8, GAD‐7, OHIP‐14 and PSQI with a large effect size (ES = 0.51–0.73), while WHO‐5 scores were significantly lower (ES = 0.58).Patients with fibromyalgia had greater prevalence than the control group in TMJ pain, headache attributed to TMD, jaw locking, headache attributed to bruxism, sleep bruxism and awake bruxism. Another main finding was that patients with fibromyalgia had greater jaw functional limitation, generalised anxiety and impact of oral health on an individual's life. In addition, fibromyalgia patients showed lower sleep quality and well‐being index. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Petroleum Refinery Engineering is the property of Petroleum Refinery Engineering Editorial Office and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The primary objective of this study is to precisely characterize the behavior of double bracket-to-circular Hollow Section (CHS) column joints due to combined internal forces resulting from double tensile loading in opposite directions. In order to accomplish this goal, an experimental program consisting of eight test specimens has been carried out and numerical finite element modeling has been employed for the same specimens to analyze the stresses and deformations that occur within the vicinity of bracket-to-CHS joints. A total of 15 finite element models were constructed to simulate the initial study, addressing boundary conditions and facilitating verification and results comparison. The study included an investigation of various parameters, including the spacing between brackets in the longitudinal direction, as well as the depth-to-thickness ratio of the CHS columns and adding a T-stiffener to the bracket configuration. The study determined that an increase in the diameter-to-thickness ratio of the CHS columns significantly reduced the overall strength of the joint. Furthermore, findings suggested that increasing the longitudinal spacing between brackets resulted in an increase in single-bracket joint strength and a minor reduction regarding joint strength considering the effect of line loading. Moreover, adding a T-stiffener shape for the brackets enhanced the joint strength and prevented bracket tip fracture. In addition, a distinct behavior arises when considering joints with positive eccentricity, where the forces' line of action extends beyond the circular cross-section of the CHS. In such cases, a reduction in joint strength is observed. Finally, a modification factor "A" is applied to the X-type branch plate-to-CHS strength equation presented by the AISC360-22 to account for the longitudinal spacing between brackets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Beam-column joints' behavior is a key research focus due to their critical role in maintaining structural integrity and safety during earthquakes. While concentric joints have been extensively studied, eccentric joints, where beams' centerlines deviate from columns' centerlines, remain relatively unexplored. Beam-column joints exhibit more complex behavior, experiencing a significantly higher shear force (approximately six-fold that of a column), along with flexural moments and normal forces. The joint's eccentricity introduces a torsional moment that amplifies shear stress, and the beam is subjected to an out-of-plane moment (around one-sixth of the primary moment). The out-of-plane moment reduces the joint's resistance mechanism by reducing the confinement provided by beams. To examine the influence of beam eccentricity on the ductility, strength, and failure mechanism of beam-column joints, comprehensive nonlinear finite element (FE) analyses were conducted utilizing experimental eccentric beam-column joints, followed by meticulous validation of the developed model. The models employed incompatible mode mesh element and energy-based models for the concrete material behavior, utilizing an explicit solver. The models were used to examine the impact of various geometric parameters, boundary conditions, and axial load levels on behaviors (global and local) of the beam-column joint subassemblies. The examined geometric parameters encompass aspect ratios of joint and column for both joint types (exterior and interior). Joint behaviors were observed to be significantly influenced by the boundary conditions of the column. Furthermore, the aspect ratio of the joint, representing the beam-to-column depth ratio, played a predominant role in determining the joint failure mechanism by limiting their ability to develop beam hinges. Increasing the aspect ratio of the column had a modest effect on the joint's shear strength but improved the joint subassemblies' ductile behavior, despite increasing the joint's torsional moment. Higher column axial load levels increased the joint's shear strength and led to a shift in cracking patterns from diagonal to vertical. Interestingly, the study found that interior joints experienced higher out-of-plane moments. Exterior and interior joints maintained a level of approximately 62.5 % as a ratio between their shear strength across all models. Moreover, it was observed that yielding of joint stirrups correlated with a shear distortion angle of approximately 0.5 × 10 − 2 rad. Restrictions of ACI provisions on the aspect ratio of the joint seem to be conservative for eccentric interior joints. On the other side, the ACI provisions might overestimate eccentric exterior joint shear strengths as the aspect ratio exceeds unity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Flexible contact gasket is a significant component affecting the sealing performance of the refrigerator. However, few studies were conducted on the permeability characteristics of moist air through refrigerator gaskets. The purpose of this study is to explore the permeability characteristics including permeation paths size, flow type, modeling and temperature-humidity-pressure-structure effect. The characteristic scale of the interface of permeation paths is observed as 10−5 m in the free-state by atomic force microscope. The equation of Knudsen number and contact stress relation is established to judgment the flow types. By comparing the critical and simulated contact stresses, it is inferred that moist air simultaneously occurs slip, transition and free-molecular flows. A multi-scale coupling model of permeation rate is constructed to obtain the apparent permeability coefficient characterizing the permeability intensity. The air pressure difference affects the permeability characteristics in the form of direct driving force and changing the contact stress of the interfaces. Free-molecular flow mainly occurs under the negative pressure condition with inhalation coefficient of 2.26 × 10−5∼2.84 × 10−5 m2, while the slip flow mainly occurs under the positive pressure conditions with exhalation coefficient of 2.87 × 10−5∼4.65 × 10−5 m2. The essence of enhancing the sealing performance of structural improvement is to increase the contact stress and length of permeation path. By increasing the height, increasing the inclination angle, adding the auxiliary edges and adding an auxiliary airbag, the inhalation coefficient of moist air, the exhalation coefficient of moist air and the inhalation coefficient of water vapor are decreased by 54.82 %, 51.46 % and 66.04 %. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polyvinyl chloride (PVC)-carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) confined concrete (PCCC) columns shows considerable engineering application prospects due to their excellent corrosion resistance, high bearing capacity, favorable seismic behavior and reasonable price. The research on the connection between PCCC columns and reinforced concrete (RC) beams is an essential aspect to facilitate the development and application of this novel composite structural system. In this study, thirteen PCCC column-RC beam interior joints reinforced with core steel tube (CST) (hereinafter referred to as PCCCC-RBIJs-CST) are designed and tested under low cyclic loading. Several parameters, such as stirrup ratio of joint ( ρ sj ), diameter-thickness ratio of CST ( d s / t s ), axial compression ratio of column (n ), spacing of CFRP strips ( s f ), reinforcement ratio of beam ( ρ b ) and reinforcement ratio of column ( ρ c ), are considered. All the specimens show large plastic deformation, culminating in shear damage in the joint core area. The failure mode is characterized by crushing of concrete, yielding of stirrups, CST and reinforcement in the joint area. The hysteresis curves are relatively full, and the shape of curves gradually change from shuttle shape to bow shape and eventually to anti-S shape. The impacts of the studied variables on strength, stiffness, energy dissipation capacity and ductility are systematically analyzed and the feasibility of connecting PCCC columns and frame beams by means of built-in CST reinforcement is verified. Subsequently, the shear capacity of PCCCC-RBIJs-CST is evaluated by using four different existing shear capacity formulas. The reasons for deviations between the predicted results and the measured test data are deeply elaborated. A relatively reasonable predicted formula is suggested. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many patients suffer from osteoarthritis (OA) in multiple joints, possibly resulting in multiple joint arthroplasties (MJAs). Primarily, we determined the cumulative incidence (C in) of MJA in hip and knee joints up to 10 years. Secondly, we calculated the mean time between the first and subsequent joint arthroplasty, and evaluated the different MJA trajectories. Lastly, we compared patient characteristics and outcomes (functionality and pain) after surgery between MJA patients and single hip arthroplasty or knee arthroplasty (HA and KA) patients. Primary index (first) HA or KA for OA were extracted from the Dutch Arthroplasty Register. The 1, 2, 5, and 10-year C in (including competing risk death) of MJA, mean time intervals, and MJA-trajectories were calculated and stratified for primary index HA or KA. Sex, preoperative age, and body mass index were compared using ordinal logistic regression. Outcomes, measured preoperatively, 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively (function: Hip Disability or Knee Injury and OA Outcome Score; Pain: Numerical Rating Scale), were compared using linear regression. A total of 140,406 HA-patients and 140,268 KA-patients were included. One, 2, 5, and 10-year C in for a second arthroplasty were respectively 8.9% [95% confidence interval (CI): 8.7 to 9.0], 14.3% [95% CI: 14.1 to 14.5], 24.0% [95% CI: 23.7 to 24.2], and 32.7% [95% CI: 32.2 to 33.1] after index HA, and 9.5% [95% CI: 9.4 to 9.7], 16.0% [95% CI: 15.9 to 16.2], 26.4% [95% CI: 26.1 to 26.6], and 35.8% [95% CI: 35.4 to 36.3] after index KA. The 10-year C in for > 2 arthroplasties were small in both the index HA and KA groups. Time-intervals from first to second, third, and fourth arthroplasty were 26 [95% CI: 26.1 to 26.7], 47 [95% CI: 46.4 to 48.4], and 58 [95% CI: 55.4 to 61.1] months after index HA, and 26 [95% CI: 25.9 to 26.3], 52 [95% CI: 50.8 to 52.7], and 61 [95% CI: 58.3 to 63.4] months after index KA. There were 83% of the second arthroplasties placed in the contralateral cognate joint (ie, knee or hip). Differences in postoperative functionality and pain between MJAs and single HAs and KAs were small. The 10-year C in showed that about one-third of patients received a second arthroplasty after approximately 2 years, with the majority in the contralateral cognate joint. Few patients received > 2 arthroplasties within 10 years. Being a women, having a higher body mass index, and being younger increased the odds of MJA. Postoperative outcomes were slightly negatively affected by MJA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Foco (Interdisciplinary Studies Journal) is the property of Revista Foco and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Materiały Budowlane is the property of Wydawnictwo SIGMA-NOT and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

This study experimentally investigated the effects of selected factors on the bending moment capacity (BMC) of case furniture joints. The main aim was to explore mixed applications of wood-based materials and fasteners in manufacturing case furniture to reduce material costs. The study examined the effects of the face member material—particle board (PB), plywood (PL), and block board (BB)—edge member material (PB, PL, and BB), and joint shape (T-shape and L-shape) on BMC. Additionally, the study evaluated the effects of joint type (two eccentrics (TE), two dowels (TD), and one eccentric and one dowel (ED)), and material type (PB, PL, and BB) on BMC for L-shaped joints. The results showed that joint shape and face member material significantly affected the BMC of case furniture joint. The BMCs of T-shaped joints were significantly greater than those of L-shaped joints, regardless of the material of the face and edge members, except when the face member was made of PL. For L-shaped joints with PL face members, the BMCs were significantly higher compared to others. Joints constructed with TE exhibited significantly higher BMC compared to ED and TD for the same material type. For PB, TE joints exhibited an increase of approximately 3.0 Nm and 2.0 Nm compared to TD and ED, respectively. For PL, TE showed an increase of 9.1 Nm and 4.1 Nm compared to ED and TD, respectively. For BB, the increases were 7.0 Nm and 6.6 Nm compared to ED and TD. The BMC of joints made with PL and constructed with TE and ED was significantly greater than those of BB, followed by PB. However, for joints assembled with TD, there was no significant difference among the three materials. The ratios of BMC for joints constructed with ED compared to the half-sum of TE and TD were 0.73, 1.04, and 0.79 for PB, PL, and BB, respectively. These results suggest that the face member material predominantly influences the BMC of case furniture joints, indicating the potential to reduce costs by combining different materials and joint types. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Composite slab has extensive application in building industrialization. In this study, a novel composite slab with a joint was proposed, where the precast planks with bent-up rebar are only partially prefabricated along the thickness direction at the joint for cast-in-site pouring of concrete, and the rest is fully prefabricated in the factory. The flexural performance of the composite slab was compared with that of a traditional cast-in-site slab with the same geometric dimensions through four-point bending test. The results demonstrate that the bending performance of the composite slab, including cracking load, yield load, and ultimate load, is basically consistent with that of the cast-in-site slab, and can meet the engineering requirements. Based on experimental results, numerical research was conducted on the composite slabs. The effects of slab thickness, diameter of steel bar, concrete strength of precast plank, and slab span on the flexural behavior of composite slab were investigated. The numerical results show that the cracking load, yield load, and load corresponding to the deflection limit of the specimen increase with the increase in slab thickness and decrease with the increase in slab span. Increasing the steel bar diameter can increase the load corresponding to the deflection limit and yield load, while the effect on the cracking load is almost negligible. The concrete strength of precast plank has no significant effect on the flexural behavior of the composite slab. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper addresses the problem of mitigating unknown partial path overlaps in communication systems. This study demonstrates that by utilizing the front-end insight of communication systems along with the sum–product algorithm applied to factor graphs, it is possible not only to track these overlapping components accurately, but also to detect all multipath channel impairments simultaneously. The proposed methodology involves discretizing channel parameters, such as channel paths and attenuation coefficients, to ensure the most accurate computation of means of Gaussian observations. These parameters are modeled as Bernoulli random variables with priors set to 0.5 . A notable aspect of the algorithm is its integration of the received signal power into the calculation of noise variance, which is critical for its performance. To further reduce the receiver complexity, a novel implementation strategy, based on provided pre-defined look up tables (LOTs) to the reciver, is introduced. The simulation results, covering both distributed and concentrated pilot scenarios, reveal that the algorithm performs almost equally under both conditions and surpasses the established upper bound in performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE To determine the accuracy of ultrasound for diagnosing hip luxation in dogs presenting for hind limb lameness. METHODS 24 client-owned dogs presenting with pelvic limb lameness and concern for hip luxation were enrolled in this prospective diagnostic accuracy study from April 1, 2021, to July 1, 2022. An experienced ultrasonographer and a novice ultrasonographer, both masked to the diagnoses, performed hip ultrasonography using a point-of-care ultrasound machine. The experienced evaluator also performed a more comprehensive ultrasonography with a high-end ultrasound machine to characterize concurrent pelvis and hip disease. Pelvic radiographs served as the criterion standard for the diagnosis of hip luxation. RESULTS Ultrasonographic diagnosis of hip luxation demonstrated high accuracy, ranging from 84.2% to 100% for detecting the presence of luxation and 80.6% to 98.1% for diagnosing the direction of luxation for the novice and experienced evaluators, respectively, with substantial interevaluator agreement 0< = 0.722). Compared to radiographs, ultrasound accurately diagnosed the presence of osteoarthrosis with almost perfect agreement (K = 0.913) and the presence of fractures of the femoral head/neck and the nonaxial portions of the pelvis with substantial inter modality agreement (t< = 0.775). In 36% of patients, ultrasound identified injury to soft tissue structures that contribute to hip stability, including the gluteal muscles, gemelli, and joint capsule. CONCLUSIONS Ultrasound can be utilized to accurately diagnose the presence of hip luxation and document concurrent hip and pelvic disease. CLINICAL RELEVANCE Applications include the use of ultrasonography as part of a routine point-of-care protocol to catalogue injuries in patients with acute trauma and in mobile practice or remote settings where radiography is not readily available. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to enhance the structural performance of a drift joint with a slotted-in steel plate using laminated timber made from small- to medium-diameter timbers. An analysis was conducted to compare and evaluate the structural performance and seismic behavior of laminated timber portal frames reinforced with fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP) laminates, such as glass fiber cloth (GFC), glass fiber reinforced plastic sheet (GS), and carbon-reinforced plastic sheet (CS), under low amplitude cyclic lateral loads, in comparison to unreinforced portal frames (UR). The reinforced portal frame, strengthened by FRP laminates, exhibited higher resistance to strength and stiffness strength degradation due to cyclic loading-induced degradation at low drift angles compared to the unreinforced frame affected by heterogeneous timber. The reinforced portal frame, particularly the GFC and GS, exhibited energy dissipation rates 32% and 17% higher than UR, respectively, making them the most effective in vibration damping. FRP laminates mitigated fiber direction cleavage from drift pin holes. The average maximum moment and average yield moment of the reinforced portal frame increased by 18% and 21%, respectively, due to the alleviation of joint failure. Finally, CS significantly affected the maximum moment, while GFC significantly influenced the yield moment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The presence of underlying mined-out layer and developed joints have an important impact on the fragmentation process of landslide collapse. In order to further explore the cutting and fragmentation effects and characteristics of joints on rock masses, based on UAV aerial photography and field investigations of debris flows in the Madaling landslide, the particle discrete element method was used to simulate the flow force crushing process of landslide debris with joints in the underlying layer. Changes in the quantity and particle size distribution of fragmented bodies were analyzed. The conclusions are as follows: 1. The development process of debris flow in the Madaling landslide can be summarized as the following: trailing edge tension fracture, stepped creeping tension fracture, shear deformation, slip surface connection, and overall failure of the sliding mass. The collapse of joints and underlying layer promotes the failure and fragmentation process of the sliding mass; 2. Fragmentation occurs during both the failure and movement deposition processes of the sliding mass, with fragmentation dominating during movement deposition; 3. Results fitted with the Weibull dual-parameter model show continuous increase in fine particle fragmentation within the sliding body, ultimately resulting in predominantly medium to small particle size fragmentation in the deposited mass, demonstrating the phenomenon of fragmentation and disintegration during the movement and deposition of the sliding body. This study provides new insights for the analysis of the fracture mechanism of the landslide debris flow with joints in such underlying layer, and proves that the effect of the caving and joint cutting of the underlying layer on the rock mass fracture has a certain guiding significance for the prevention and control of landslide debris flow disasters in areas with similar geological conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Prosthesis loosening due to lack of osteointegration between an implant and surrounding bone tissue is one of the most common causes of implant failure. Further, bacterial contamination and biofilm formation onto implants represent a serious complication after surgery. The enhancement of osteointegration can be achieved by using bioconductive materials that promote biological responses in the body, stimulating bone growth and thus bonding to tissue. Through the incorporation of antibacterial substances in bioconductive, biodegradable calcium phosphate (CaP) coatings, faster osteointegration and bactericidal properties can be achieved. In this study, Cu-doped CaP supraparticles are spray-dried and suspension-sprayed CaP ceramic coatings with antibacterial properties are prepared using high-velocity suspension flame spraying (HVSFS). The objective was to increase the coatings' porosity and investigate which Cu-doped supraparticles have the strongest antibacterial properties when introduced into the coating layers. Biocompatibility was tested on human Osteosarcoma cells MG63. A porosity of at least 13% was achieved and the supraparticles could be implemented, enhancing it up to 16%. The results showed that the addition of Cu-doped supraparticles did not significantly reduce the number of viable cells compared to the Cu-free sample, demonstrating good biocompatibility. The antimicrobial activity was assessed against the bacterial strains Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, with Safe Airborne Antibacterial testing showing a significant reduction in both Gram-positive and Gram-negative strains on the Cu-doped coatings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Longitudinal joints are the most vulnerable parts of prefabricated utility tunnels, susceptible to damage from external forces and foundation settlement. Currently, the shear mechanical properties of prefabricated double-cabin utility tunnel joints are unclear, preventing the evaluation of the structural or joint safety of utility tunnels. The shear mechanical response and failure characteristics of the joints of prefabricated double-cabin utility tunnels are investigated by combining model testing with numerical simulation. The results indicate that the shear deformation of utility tunnel joints can be categorized into elastic, crack propagation, and damage stages. In the course of joint-shear deformation, the middle utility tunnel sustains centrosymmetric failure. The degree of deformation of the large cabin is greater than that of the small cabin, while the damage to the small cabin is more severe. When the utility tunnel is subjected to the same load, the joint dislocation under the gravelly sand foundation is the smallest, but the damage range is the largest and the cracks are the most. Local strengthening and protection are needed at the chamfer, near the bolt hole, and the top and bottom. The stratum conditions have little effect on the shear stiffness of the joint during the elastic stage, but they have a significant impact during the crack propagation and damage stages. Finally, the joint damage area is approximately 15% of the total utility tunnel, and the deformation region of the longitudinal connectors is approximately 16% of its length. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Immediate implant-supported rehabilitation of atrophic maxillae with a fixed screw-retained prosthesis has to deal with the fixtures’ disparallelism and a high risk of fracture of the fixture-abutment connecting screw. After the flapless placement of six implants, with the distal ones inclined at more than 30° to bypass the sinus cavities and reduce the cantilever effects, the provisional prosthesis was immediately connected. The low-profile OT Equator attachment system enabled a trustworthy anchorage of the superstructure without the connection-screws allocation on the rear fixtures. Three months later, all implants were definitively loaded. The patient was monitored for two years follow-up. No problem arose during the whole treatment. The prosthesis maintained its stability and anchorage with complete functional and aesthetic results. No signs of periimplantitis or radiographically evident bone loss were noted. The OT Bridge system successfully simplified the immediate loading of all implants regardless of the inclination of the rear fixtures, avoiding a provisional mobile denture.

Abstract The primary objective of this study is to precisely characterize the behavior of double bracket-to-circular Hollow Section (CHS) column joints due to combined internal forces resulting from double tensile loading in opposite directions. In order to accomplish this goal, an experimental program consisting of eight test specimens has been carried out and numerical finite element modeling has been employed for the same specimens to analyze the stresses and deformations that occur within the vicinity of bracket-to-CHS joints. A total of 15 finite element models were constructed to simulate the initial study, addressing boundary conditions and facilitating verification and results comparison. The study included an investigation of various parameters, including the spacing between brackets in the longitudinal direction, as well as the depth-to-thickness ratio of the CHS columns and adding a T-stiffener to the bracket configuration. The study determined that an increase in the diameter-to-thickness ratio of the CHS columns significantly reduced the overall strength of the joint. Furthermore, findings suggested that increasing the longitudinal spacing between brackets resulted in an increase in single-bracket joint strength and a minor reduction regarding joint strength considering the effect of line loading. Moreover, adding a T-stiffener shape for the brackets enhanced the joint strength and prevented bracket tip fracture. In addition, a distinct behavior arises when considering joints with positive eccentricity, where the forces’ line of action extends beyond the circular cross-section of the CHS. In such cases, a reduction in joint strength is observed. Finally, a modification factor “A” is applied to the X-type branch plate-to-CHS strength equation presented by the AISC360-22 to account for the longitudinal spacing between brackets.

The iron-based powder metallurgy materials were sintered and brazed with the water atomized Ancorbraze 72 (AB72) powders. The wettability and penetration depth of the brazing materials were studied by brazing material pretreatment and changing sintering atmosphere. The results show that, with the increase of pretreatment temperature, the maximum diameter of brazing residue on the matrix surface decreases obviously, and the diffusion range of brazing material at 1000 μm away from the wetting surface decreases gradually. When the pretreatment temperature is 800 ℃, the brazing residue is the least, the diffusion range is the least at 1000 μm away from the wetting surface, and the pretreatment effect is the best. When the pretreatment temperature is 800 ℃, the treatment time is 2 h, and the treatment atmosphere is 75%N2+25%H2 (volume fraction), the residue on the brazing surface is less, and the diffusion range of the brazing materials is the smallest at 1000 μm away from the wetting surface. A certain amount of endothermic atmosphere during the sintering brazing can obviously improve the penetration of brazing materials in the matrix. When the flow rate of endothermic atmosphere is 20 m3∙h−1, the improvement of wetting angle and penetration depth is the best.

Purpose: Growing interest surrounds the role of human gut microbiome in the development of degenerative pathologies such as osteoarthritis (OA), but microbes have recently been detected also in other sites previously considered to be sterile. Evidence emerged suggesting that even native and osteoarthritic knee joints may host several microbial species possibly involved in the osteoarthritic degeneration. This is the first systematic review critically collecting all the available evidence on the existence and composition of knee intra-articular microbiome. Methods: A systematic research on the PubMed, Cochrane and Google Scholar databases was performed. Human clinical studies investigating the presence of intra-articular microbiome in native osteoarthritic knee joints with next-generation sequencing techniques were collected. Results: A total of eight studies were included reporting data on 255 knees. All the included studies reported evidence supporting the existence of an intra-articular microbiome in native knee joints, with detection rates varying from 5.8% to 100%. Bacteria from the Proteobacteria phylum were found to be among the most identified followed by the Actinobacteria, Firmicutes, Fusobacteria, and Bacteroideta phyla. Proteobacteria phylum were also found to be more common in osteoarthritic knees when compared to healthy joints. Furthermore, several pathways correlating those microbes to knee OA progression have been suggested and summarized in this review. Conclusions: Evidence collected in this systematic review suggests that the native knee joint, previously presumed to be a sterile environment, hosts a peculiar intra-articular microbiome with a unique composition. Furthermore, its alteration may have a link with the progression of knee osteoarthritis.

Copyright of Equine Veterinary Journal is the property of Wiley-Blackwell and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Abstract Background Fungal periprosthetic joint infection (FPJI) is an infrequent but devastating complication that imposes a heavy burden on patients. At present, a consensus regarding the most optimal surgical option for patients with FPJI, the ideal duration of systemic antifungal treatment, and many other issues has not been reached. Methods A comprehensive literature search was performed on the PubMed and Embase databases. The search criteria employed were as follows: (fungal OR candida OR mycotic) AND periprosthetic joint infection. Initially, the titles and abstracts were screened, and subsequently, studies deemed irrelevant or duplicative were eliminated. Following this, the complete texts of remaining articles were thoroughly examined. According to the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 489 joints in 24 articles were screened out. We further extracted the demographic characteristics (age, gender, body mass index, etc.), clinical presentation, fungal species, presence of bacterial coinfection, surgical methods, systemic and local antifungal therapy, and treatment outcomes. Subgroup data were analyzed according to fungal species and bacterial coinfection. Univariate logistic regression analysis was conducted to ascertain the risk factors associated with the infection recurrence. Results A total of 506 fungi were identified within 489 joints. The most prevalent fungal species were Candida albicans (41.5%). Out of 247 joints (50.5%) presenting with concurrent fungal and bacterial infections. Among the initial surgical interventions, two-stage exchange was the most common (59.1%). The infection recurrence rates of DAIR, resection arthroplasty, two-stage, one-stage, and three-stage exchange were 81.4%, 53.1%, 47.7%, 35.0%, and 30%, respectively. The mean duration of systemic antifungal therapy was 12.8 weeks. The most common drugs used both in intravenous (55.9%) and oral therapy (84.0%) were fluconazole. The proportion of patients who used antifungal drugs after replantation (two-stage and three-stage) was 87.6%. 33.2% of cement spacer or fixed cement contained antifungal drugs, of which amphotericin B was the main choice (82.7%). FPJI caused by candida albicans (OR = 1.717, p = 0.041) and DAIR (OR = 8.433, p = 0.003) were risk factors for infection recurrence. Conclusions Two-stage exchange remains the most commonly used surgical approach. The reliability of one- and three-exchange needs further evaluation due to the small sample size. Antifungal-loaded cement spacers, and direct intra-articular injections of antimycotics after reimplatation should be strongly considered. Medication is not standardized but rather individualized according to microbiology and the status of patients.

Purpose: The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy of calcitonin (CT) in animal models of experimental osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA), as new stabilized CT formulations are currently being introduced. Methods: A comprehensive and systemic literature search was conducted in PubMed/MEDLINE and Embase databases to identify articles with original data on CT treatment of preclinical OA and RA. Methodological quality was assessed using the Systematic Review Centre for Laboratory Animal Experimentation’s risk of bias tool for animal intervention studies. To provide summary estimates of efficacy, a meta-analysis was conducted for outcomes reported in four or more studies, using a random-effects model. Subgroup analyses were employed to correct for study specifics. Results: Twenty-six studies were ultimately evaluated and data from 16 studies could be analyzed in the meta-analysis, which included the following outcomes: bone mineral density, bone volume, levels of cross-linked C-telopeptide of type I collagen, histopathological arthritis score, and mechanical allodynia. For all considered outcome parameters, CT-treated groups were significantly superior to control groups (P = 0.002; P = 0.01; P < 0.00001; P < 0.00001; P = 0.04). For most outcomes, effect sizes were significantly greater in OA than in RA (P ≤ 0.025). High in-between study heterogeneity was detected. Conclusion: There is preclinical evidence for an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antinociceptive, cartilage-and bone-protective effect of CT in RA and OA. Given these effects, CT presents a promising agent for the treatment of both diseases, although the potential seems to be greater in OA.

The vascular and lymphatic systems are integral to maintaining skeletal homeostasis and responding to pathological conditions in bone and joint tissues. This review explores the interplay between blood vessels and lymphatic vessels in bones and joints, focusing on their roles in homeostasis, regeneration, and disease progression. Type H blood vessels, characterized by high expression of CD31 and endomucin, are crucial for coupling angiogenesis with osteogenesis, thus supporting bone homeostasis and repair. These vessels facilitate nutrient delivery and waste removal, and their dysfunction can lead to conditions such as ischemia and arthritis. Recent discoveries have highlighted the presence and significance of lymphatic vessels within bone tissue, challenging the traditional view that bones are devoid of lymphatics. Lymphatic vessels contribute to interstitial fluid regulation, immune cell trafficking, and tissue repair through lymphangiocrine signaling. The pathological alterations in these networks are closely linked to inflammatory joint diseases, emphasizing the need for further research into their co-regulatory mechanisms. This comprehensive review summarizes the current understanding of the structural and functional aspects of vascular and lymphatic networks in bone and joint tissues, their roles in homeostasis, and the implications of their dysfunction in disease. By elucidating the dynamic interactions between these systems, we aim to enhance the understanding of their contributions to skeletal health and disease, potentially informing the development of targeted therapeutic strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To explore the dynamic response characteristics of three kinds of assembled tunnel joints(self-weight mortise-tenon joint, bolt mortise-tenon joint and steel plate mortise-tenon joint)under impact load, ABAQUS software was utilized to simulate the dynamic response process and damage characteristics of three kinds of joints under impact load, and the impact resistance of three kinds of joints was compared. The results indicated that the response of the assembled tunnel joint under impact could be divided into initial impact stage, development stage and stable stage. In this process, the joint was affected by impact force, reaction force and inertia force. The dynamic response characteristics of the three types of joints were influenced by the mass and velocity of the impact. When the impact mass exceeds 1 400 kg and the impact velocity exceeds 60 km/h, the central displacement, opening, and damage range of the joints significantly increased. The steel plate tenon and mortise joint was the structure with the best impact resistance among the three types of joints. In the anti-impact design of assembled tunnel structures, it was necessary to focus on enhancing the stiffness of the joints. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives To introduce and evaluate a simple method for assessing joint inflammation and structural damage on whole-body MRI (WBMRI) in juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA), which is usable in clinical practice. Methods The proposed system utilizes post-contrast Dixon WBMRI scans. Joints are assessed for synovitis (grade 0–2) and structural damage (present/absent) at 81 sites. The synovitis grading is based on features including above-normal intensity synovial enhancement, synovial hypertrophy, joint effusion, subarticular bone marrow oedema and peri-articular soft tissue oedema. This system was evaluated in a prospective study of 60 young people (47 patients with JIA and 13 controls with non-inflammatory musculoskeletal pain) who underwent a WBMRI. Three readers (blinded to diagnosis) independently reviewed all images and re-reviewed 20 individual scans. The intra- and inter-reader overall agreement (OA) and the intra- and inter-reader Gwet's agreement coefficients 2 (GAC2) were measured for the detection of a) participants with ≥1 joint with inflammation or structural damage and b) joint inflammation or structural damage for each joint. Results The inter-reader OA for detecting patients with ≥1 joint with inflammation, defined as grade 2 synovitis (G2), and ≥1 joint with structural damage were 80% and 73%, respectively. The intra-reader OA for readers 1–3 was 80–90% and 75–90%, respectively. The inter-reader OA and GAC2 for joint inflammation (G2) at each joint were both ≥85% for all joints but were lower if grade 1 synovitis was included as positive. Conclusion The intra- and inter-reader agreements of this WBMRI assessment system are adequate for assessing objective joint inflammation and damage in JIA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intra-articular blood, iron and hemosiderin, hydroxyl radical cytokines, and neo-angiogenesis cause synovial inflammation, which leads to cartilage and joint damage. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) inhibits most of the mediators that produce and maintain synovitis. We compile here our work showing the clinical effectiveness of intra-articular PRP injections and their potential role in stopping articular cartilage damage due to bleeding and its possible repair. A total of 116 joints, including knees (63%), elbows (19.8%), and ankles (17.2%), were treated with intra-articular injections of PRP. Moreover, we also show here the number of extracellular DNA traps (ETs) and the PRP effect in the synovial fluid of patients at the time of treatment and six months after. Clinically, it is demonstrated that PRP is effective in reducing bleeding episodes (p < 0.001) and pain (p < 0.0001) and improving the hemophilia joint health score (HJHS) (p < 0.001) at one year of follow-up. Furthermore, our results demonstrate that PRP inhibits ET formation in vitro and reconstitutes the immune system's cellular components in the synovial fluid of patients after treatment. We conclude that PRP can be considered an effective, safe, and easy treatment for hemophilic synovitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction-Shoulder pain is a common complaint in primary health care resulting in significant pain and disability, loss of productivity and health care costs. With time various imaging modalities has come for establishing the diagnosis. MRI has become the “gold standard” for detecting both subtle and obvious internal derangement and assessing overall joint structure. The present study was done with an aim to study the spectrum of disease detectable with this technique and to know the advantages and usefulness of MRI in evaluation of shoulder pain Material and methods-The prospective observational study was conducted at Jaipur National University, Institute for Medical Science and Research Centre, Jaipur among 30 patients who visited with complain of shoulder joint and referred during the study period of one year. Demographic and clinical history was recorded and MRI of patients was done according to protocol. Results – More than 50% of the subjects were having age of >41 years. 64% and 36% of the subjects were male and female respectively. Thickness tear, full thickness tear and tendinosis were revealed among 26%, 2% and 36% of the subjects with SS. In case of SUB and IFS; partial thickness tear and tendinosis was reported among 4%, 8% and 2%, 4% of the subjects respectively. ACJ hypertrophy and labral tear was found among 32% and 18% of the subjects respectively. Bony pathology was found among 36% of the subjects. Conclusion-In medicine, elaborate diagnosis obviously makes sense if there are means for adequate therapy and there is a good chance for better outcomes. MRI is non-invasive, contrast-free, nonionizing, and high-resolution. MRI shoulder helps determine which individuals need medical and surgical treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article argues that the historical assessment of Dwight D. Eisenhower as Supreme Allied Commander of the Allied Expeditionary Force in World War II lacks objectivity and balance. It identifies several strategic errors and missteps attributable to Eisenhower, which resulted in severe casualties and prolonged the war in Europe. The conclusions can help US military practitioners and policymakers assess the background and qualities required for successful theater command during wartime and senior commanders’ performances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To provide a review on acromegaly and its orofacial manifestations, with a focus on associated arthropathies and temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD). Methods: A review of current literature was performed through an electronic search of three databases: PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar. The literature review was focused on the following topics of interest: etiology, diagnosis, and management of acromegaly, orofacial manifestations of acromegaly, acromegalic arthropathies, and acromegaly‐associated TMD. Results: Acromegaly is a chronic multisystem condition in which excessive production of growth hormone in adults, most commonly caused by benign pituitary adenomas, leads to somatic overgrowth. Orofacial changes are considered hallmarks of the disease. It is important for dentists to recognize signs and symptoms of acromegaly, as this may help to achieve early diagnosis and improve overall disease prognosis. Acromegalic arthropathies typically involve large joints, however, the temporomandibular joints (TMJ) can be affected. TMD associated with acromegaly is under‐recognized and poorly characterized in current literature. Conclusion: In the appropriate clinical context, acromegaly should be considered as part of the differential diagnosis for patients presenting with TMD. Further studies are needed to better characterize the nature of TMD associated with acromegaly and to define the role of TMJ involvement in early diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To estimate the prevalence of temporomandibular dysfunction in scleroderma patients according to the Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (DC/TMD) and to correlate it with disease variables. Methods: Temporomandibular dysfunction was evaluated in 75 scleroderma patients and 74 healthy controls using DC/TMD. Gastrointestinal symptoms were evaluated through the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) score in scleroderma patients. Results: There was no difference of prevalence in temporomandibular dysfunction [30 (40%) vs 30 (40.5%); p > 00.05] between scleroderma patients and healthy controls. Scleroderma patients had a significant reduction in all oral movements compared to healthy controls. Scleroderma patients with temporomandibular dysfunction had a statistically higher score in the UCLA distention/bloating item [1.75 (0.5–2.38) vs 0.75 (0.25–1.75); p < 0.05] than scleroderma patients without temporomandibular dysfunction. Discussion: Temporomandibular dysfunction prevalence between scleroderma patients and healthy controls is similar. In scleroderma patients, temporomandibular dysfunction reduces oral mobility and opening, which worsens distension/bloating. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Osteoarthritis (OA) prevalence and incidence varies between women and men, but it is unknown whether this follows sex-specific differences in systemic factors (e.g. hormones) and/or differences in pre-morbid joint anatomy. We recognize that classifications of sex within humans cannot be reduced to female/male, but given the lack of literature on non-binary individuals, this review is limited to the sexual dimorphism of articular morphotypes. Based on a Pubmed search using relevant terms, and input from experts, we selected articles based on the authors' judgment of their relevance, interest, originality, and scientific quality; no "hard" bibliometric measures were used to evaluate their quality or importance. Focus was on clinical rather than pre-clinical studies, with most (imaging) data being available for the knee joint. After introducing "sexual dimorphism", the specific literature on articular morphotypes is reviewed, structured by: radiographic joint space width (JSW), meniscus, ligaments, articular cartilage morphology, articular cartilage composition and deformation, and articular tissue response to treatment. Sex-specific differences were clearly observed for JSW, meniscus damage, ligament size, and cartilage morphometry (volume, thickness, and surface areas) but not for cartilage composition. Ligament and cartilage measures were smaller in women even after matching for confounders. Taken together, the findings indicate that female (knee) joints may be structurally more vulnerable and at greater risk of OA. The "one size/sex fits all" approach must be abandoned in OA research, and all observational and interventional studies should report their results for sex-specific strata, at least in pre-specified secondary or post-hoc analyses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Guangdong Architecture Civil Engineering is the property of Guangdong Architecture Civil Engineering Editorial Office and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

From the recent awareness of the booming number of space debris and their derived worldwide re-entry event threat originating from the use of high survivability components, complementary mitigation measures must be taken for future orbital elements. In this direction, the implementation of a design for demise at an early stage of spacecraft conception allows a progressive and effective solution. As part of a collaborative effort launched by École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne and the European Space Agency, we focus on the evaluation of polymer composite bolts as the main structural satellite panel fastening systems to improve the overall spacecraft demisability during its destructive re-entry into the atmosphere as compared to baseline critical systems, while maintaining equivalent mission-relevant properties. Two carbon fiber-reinforced polyetheretherketone (PEEK) designs were compared to a stainless steel baseline in terms of static properties at room temperature, dynamic properties over a temperature range, as well as demise capability by static re-entry simulation testing. The results led us to identify a promising short CF/PEEK composite bolt design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mycoplasma hyopharyngis is a commensal bacterium in the upper respiratory tract of swine. As it is recognized to be apathogenic, examinations regarding this species are scarce, compared to other swine mycoplasmas. However, in a few cases, M. hyopharyngis was detected in lesions of different organs. This report presents a case study in which M. hyopharyngis (along with other bacteria) was isolated from the joint of a pig showing lameness. A Hungarian farm was repopulated with 250 gilts and 1,700 finishers after undergoing a complete depopulation and disinfection. Two days later, cases of diarrhoea and septicaemia caused by Salmonella enterica serovar typhimurium were seen in the finishers. At the same time, following the first farrowing, swollen joints were observed in 21–25 days old piglets. Joint samples were collected, and isolation of Mycoplasma sp. and other bacteria was attempted. Analysis of the joint samples revealed the presence of Staphylococcus haemolyticus, Staphylococcus hyicus, Aerococcus viridans, Trueperella pyogenes, Streptococcus agalactiae and M. hyopharyngis. This is the second isolation of M. hyopharyngis from joints, which highlights the necessity of a better understanding the biology of this often-overlooked species, and its role in the progress of arthritis or other lesions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Joints are the weak parts of the prefabricated frame tunnels, and their mechanical behavior under high temperature conditions is not clear. In this research, a thermal-mechanical coupling numerical model of the tunnel joint is established with reference to an actual assembled frame tunnel. The flexural and shear performance of the joint at room temperature and high temperature are investigated. The effects of axial force, steel plate thickness, steel box thickness, bolt diameter, concrete strength and steel bar diameter on the mechanical properties of the joint are analysed, and the importance of these parameters is evaluated by grey relational analysis. The results show that the flexural and shear bearing capacities of this type of joint decrease significantly at high temperature. The longitudinal rebar diameter and concrete strength play a leading role in the bending capacity of the joint. The concrete strength and steel plate thickness play a dominant role in the shear capacity of the joint. The combination of steel plates and bolts limits the dislocation displacement of the joint, especially when the steel plate thickness is 30 mm, and the shear capacity of the joint significantly improves. The study results can support the fire resistance design of prefabricated tunnels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mammalian cells produce and metabolize almost exclusively L-lactate, bacterial species have the capacity to produce both D-lactate and L-lactate. The aim of this study was to evaluate the intrinsic production of D- and L-lactate in the most common pathogenic microorganisms causing septic arthritis (SA) and periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) as a potential biomarker for the diagnosis of infection. Following microorganisms were grown according to ATCC culture guides and tested for production of D- and L-lactate: Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 43300), Staphylococcus epidermidis (ATCC 35984), Enterococcus faecalis (ATCC 19433), Streptococcus pyogenes (ATCC 19615), Escherichia coli (ATCC 25922), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (ATCC 27853), Cutibacterium acnes (ATCC 11827), and Candida albicans (ATCC 90028). Pathogens were inoculated in 8 ml of appropriate liquid media and incubated as planktonic or biofilm form in either aerobic, anaerobic or CO2 atmosphere up to 312 h. D- and L-lactate measurements were performed at different time points: 0, 6, 9, 12 and 24 h, then once per day for slow-growing pathogens. Samples were serially diluted and plated for colony counting. Liquid culture media without microorganisms served as a negative control. Production of D-lactate was observed in all tested microorganisms, whereas no L-lactate was detected in E. coli, P. aeruginosa, and C. albicans. Maximal concentration of D-lactate was produced by S. aureus (10.99 mmol/L), followed by E. coli (1.22 mmol/L), and S. epidermidis (0.48 mmol/L). Maximal L-lactate concentration was observed in S. pyogenes (10.12 mmol/L), followed by S. aureus (9.71 mmol/L), E. faecalis (2.64 mmol/L), and S. epidermidis (2.50 mmol/L). S. epidermidis bacterial biofilm produced significantly higher amount of D- and L-lactate compared to planktonic form (p = 0.015 and p = 0.002, respectively). Our study has demonstrated that the most common pathogenic microorganisms causing SA and PJI have the capability to generate measurable amounts of D-lactate in both planktonic and biofilm form, highlighting the practical value of this biomarker as an indicator for bacterial and fungal infections. In contrast to D-lactate, the absence of L-lactate production in certain tested bacteria, as well as in fungi, suggests that L-lactate is not eligible as a biomarker for diagnosing microbial infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Fungal periprosthetic joint infection (FPJI) is an infrequent but devastating complication that imposes a heavy burden on patients. At present, a consensus regarding the most optimal surgical option for patients with FPJI, the ideal duration of systemic antifungal treatment, and many other issues has not been reached. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was performed on the PubMed and Embase databases. The search criteria employed were as follows: (fungal OR candida OR mycotic) AND periprosthetic joint infection. Initially, the titles and abstracts were screened, and subsequently, studies deemed irrelevant or duplicative were eliminated. Following this, the complete texts of remaining articles were thoroughly examined. According to the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 489 joints in 24 articles were screened out. We further extracted the demographic characteristics (age, gender, body mass index, etc.), clinical presentation, fungal species, presence of bacterial coinfection, surgical methods, systemic and local antifungal therapy, and treatment outcomes. Subgroup data were analyzed according to fungal species and bacterial coinfection. Univariate logistic regression analysis was conducted to ascertain the risk factors associated with the infection recurrence. Results: A total of 506 fungi were identified within 489 joints. The most prevalent fungal species were Candida albicans (41.5%). Out of 247 joints (50.5%) presenting with concurrent fungal and bacterial infections. Among the initial surgical interventions, two-stage exchange was the most common (59.1%). The infection recurrence rates of DAIR, resection arthroplasty, two-stage, one-stage, and three-stage exchange were 81.4%, 53.1%, 47.7%, 35.0%, and 30%, respectively. The mean duration of systemic antifungal therapy was 12.8 weeks. The most common drugs used both in intravenous (55.9%) and oral therapy (84.0%) were fluconazole. The proportion of patients who used antifungal drugs after replantation (two-stage and three-stage) was 87.6%. 33.2% of cement spacer or fixed cement contained antifungal drugs, of which amphotericin B was the main choice (82.7%). FPJI caused by candida albicans (OR = 1.717, p = 0.041) and DAIR (OR = 8.433, p = 0.003) were risk factors for infection recurrence. Conclusions: Two-stage exchange remains the most commonly used surgical approach. The reliability of one- and three-exchange needs further evaluation due to the small sample size. Antifungal-loaded cement spacers, and direct intra-articular injections of antimycotics after reimplatation should be strongly considered. Medication is not standardized but rather individualized according to microbiology and the status of patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fractures in a rock mass have an important influence on the mechanical response and hydraulic properties. Investigating and modeling fractures is crucial, especially with regard to the geological disposal of high-level radioactive waste, where long term stability is necessary to avoid a direct threat to society. This study sought to classify joints and faults in the Hongcheon gneiss, South Korea, based on their geometric characteristics. A generic classification model for joints and faults is proposed, dividing them into four types based on propagation pattern and development of fault core and fault effect zone. More than 4,000 joints and 34 faults were analyzed using samples of deep drillcore to investigate the relationships between the properties of these structures and depth or lithology. To validate the model, it was applied to other area where different lithologies are found. A damage index is utillized to visually represent the impact of a fault on the quality of rock mass. The joint patterns can be correlated with lithology, as the mineralogical characteristics and internal structures influence the patterns. The fault zone patterns show a relationship with depth, and the damage index provides a reliable indication of the fault impact. The validation of the fault model will be conducted in subsequent studies. With estimation of the hydromechanical properties of each joint and fault pattern, a practical approach would be provided to characterize fractures from drillcore data and enhance the accuracy of fluid flow and stability models for any given rock mass. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Previous research shows that sacroiliac (SI) joint fusion is age and sex dependent. Older individuals—specifically starting in the fifth or sixth decade of life—are more likely to develop SI fusion. Females have a lower frequency of SI joint fusion than males, perhaps due to pregnancy or parturition. This study examines the relationship between SI joint fusion with both sex and parity status in females. The issue is whether the prevalence of SI fusion in nulliparous females is more similar to that of males or parous females. Materials and Methods: The sample consists of 46 nulliparous females, 119 parous females, and 158 males from the William M. Bass Donated Skeletal Collection. Ages of the individuals ranged from 50 to 89 years. Sex, age, and parity status were self‐reported. Results: The frequency of SI joint fusion is significantly different among males (13.29%), nulliparous females (6.52%), and parous females (0.84%). Pairwise comparison of the three groups for SI joint fusion shows that parous females and males are significantly different, but nulliparous females are nonsignificantly different from parous females and males. Discussion: Parity status does not appear to be a factor in the sexually dimorphic nature of SI joint fusion in this sample. Rather, biomechanical and hormonal factors may have a greater contribution to higher rates of SI joint fusion in males than females. Research Highlights: Parous females have a lower prevalence of SI joint fusion compared with males of the same age categories.Parity status and SI joint fusion were not statistically significant, suggesting that the constraints of childbirth may not contribute to lower rates of SI joint fusion in females than males. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Septic arthritis is a dangerous medical condition requiring prompt diagnosis, often via arthrocentesis. A "dry tap" occurs when no fluid is aspirated. We hypothesized that the absence of a joint effusion on pre-procedure advanced imaging would reliably predict a dry tap and exclude septic arthritis. Methods: A cohort of 217 arthrocentesis cases of large joints (hips, shoulders, knees) from our institution, with pre-procedure advanced imaging (CT, MR, US) of the same joint performed within the previous 48 h, was analyzed. Exclusion criteria included non-native joints or inadequate imaging of the affected joint. These cases underwent blinded review by 4 radiologists who measured the deepest pocket of joint fluid on the pre-procedure imaging. Wilcoxon rank-sum test was performed comparing joint fluid pocket size to outcomes of successful aspiration and final diagnosis. Results: A smaller average joint pocket fluid size was present on advanced imaging in both dry taps compared with successful arthrocenteses (p <.0001), and in uninfected joints compared with septic joints (p =.0001). However, the overlap of values was too great to allow for a perfectly predictive cutoff. 29% (5/17) of patients with no visible joint fluid on pre-aspiration imaging underwent successful arthrocentesis, one case representing septic arthritis. Conclusion: Volume of joint fluid on advanced pre-arthrocentesis imaging cannot reliably predict subsequent dry tap nor exclude septic arthritis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sudden freefall is very common in high-velocity and long-runout rockslides. The combination of freefall and joints (a rock mass structure) may cause a high degree of fragmentation of sliding rock mass. However, previous studies often simplified fragmentation of rock mass with initial joints to be caused by impact after sliding, ignoring the contribution of freefall to rockslide fragmentation and spreading. Several multi-stage slope models are created in this study referring to the topographic characteristics of rockslides, including impact after sliding, inter-slope freefall, once-end-slope freefall, and twice-end-slope freefall. The rock masses are simulated by setting different numbers of persistent joints in analog blocks. The joints are described by the unbonded particles. The results suggest that the fragmentation of analog blocks consists of the fracture caused by tensile cracks and the local fragmentation caused by impact. Fragmentation is an effective sink, which shortens the runout distance of the center of the mass. Freefall and initial joints limit the momentum transfer between the front and rear fragments, so the freefall cannot directly promote rockslide spreading. However, freefall and initial joints facilitate the fragmentation of the block, producing a high sphericity of fragments, which are easy to roll and bounce under the disturbance of the freefall. This might be an important reason for the long-runout spreading of rockslides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To develop a new tool for identifying joint hypermobility of the paediatric foot and ankle, based on a dichotomous scoring system utilising the Lower Limb Assessment Score (LLAS), to separate the foot and ankle items. A total of 205 children, aged between 5 and 10 years, participated in a cross-sectional study. The new tool Foot and Ankle Flexibility Index (FAFI) was predicated upon the last 7 items of LLAS, which are specific to the foot and ankle. The internal consistency was measured with Cronbach's test. Kappa statistics with 95% CI were calculated to verify the level of inter-rater and intra-rater agreement for the FAFI. Cronbach's alpha returned 0.82. The correlations between items returned a mean of 0.59 (range: 0.43–0.74). The discrimination score on the ROC curve (4 points) showed that the model can be used to identify children with joint hypermobility of the foot and ankle. Inter-rater reliability was largely good (ICC = 0.89). Excellent intra-rater reliability was found (ICC = 0.96) This study identified high reliability between evaluators, and high sensitivity and specificity, for a new reliable and valid tool for the identification of foot and ankle joint hypermobility. • FAFI is the first tool to identify foot and ankle hypermobility. • We have found a cut-off point of 4/6 with a sensitivity of 95% and a specificity of 86%. • From now on, we should discard general hypermobility tests and focus on FAFI for research in the foot and ankle area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]