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Psoriasis is a widespread chronic inflammatory skin disease, that negatively affects physical and emotional well-being and quality of life, as shown by the generally low Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI). Psoriasis is burdened by associated comorbidities and some patients manifest concurrent oral lesions, although the existence of oral psoriasis remains controversial. Psoriasis-specific and nonspecific oral lesions and Oral Health-Related Quality of Life (OHRQoL), self-assessed using the Oral Health Impact Profile-14 (OHIP-14) questionnaire, were retrospectively reviewed in adult untreated psoriasis patients with ≥15 teeth, who were non-smokers and had no dental or periodontal infections. Sample (age, gender, comorbidities) and descriptive variables (Body Surface Area-BSA, Psoriasis Area and Severity Index-PASI, Dermatology Life Quality Index-DLQI, severity of psoriasis, distribution of lesions and predominant involvement, years since diagnosis) were correlated with DLQI and OHIP-14 and compared by baseline DLQI and OHRQoL classes. Charts from 90 participants were included. No oral lesions were detected, and excellent/good OHRQoL was found in 94% of the participants. DLQI scores displayed positive significant associations with PASI and BSA, while OHIP-14 with hypertension and IMID, and age. PASI and BSA were significantly higher in participants with DLQI > 10 and also differed significantly among OHQRoL ranks, as well as mucosal involvement and comorbidities. Specifically, among subjects revealing an Excellent OHQRoL, 92.6% were non-IMID, 75% non-hypertensive, 89.7% non-diabetic subjects, 86.8% of non CVD-subjects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The efficiency increase that distributed propulsion could deliver for future hybrid-electric aircraft is in line with the urgent demand for higher aerodynamic performances and a lower environmental impact. Several consolidated proprietary tools (not always available) are developed worldwide for distributed propulsion simulation. Therefore, prediction and comparisons of propeller performances, with computational fluid dynamic codes featuring different implementation of solvers, numerical schemes, and turbulence models, is of interest to a wider audience of research end-users. In this framework, the paper presents a cross-comparison study among different CFD solvers, the SU2 Multiphysics Simulation and Design Software, the CIRA proprietary flow solver UZEN, and the commercial ANSYS-FLUENT code, for the simulation of a wing section with a tractor propeller at different flow attitudes. The propeller is modelled as an actuator disk according to the general momentum theory and is accounted for in the flow solvers as a boundary condition, for the momentum and energy equations. In this study, a propeller with a fixed advance ratio J = 0.63 is considered, while propeller performances are assumed variable along with the radius. To perform the comparisons among the solvers, an in-house procedure, which provides the input thrust and torque distributions in a unified format among the three solvers, is developed. Steady RANS simulations are performed at R e ∞ = 1.7 × 10 6 and M ∞ = 0.11 , for the flowfield of an isolated propeller. Successively, a wing section with a fixed forward-mounted propeller configuration with no nacelle, is studied at α = 0 ∘ , 4 ∘ , and 8 ∘ angles of attack. The comparisons in terms of the lift coefficient show a good agreement among the three flow solvers both in power-off and power-on conditions. Simulations also evidenced the strong stability preserving property of upwind schemes, applied to propeller simulation at low-Mach number. Some discrepancies in the drag coefficient are observed and related to different levels of numerical diffusion between the three codes, which affects the downstream wake. Differences in flow properties in near disk region are observed and explained considering the different hub implementations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endodontic treatment comprises the overall management of pre-, intra- and post-operative symptoms, including post-operative endodontic pain, considered as a complication susceptible of chronicization. Post-operative pain is very common and highly unpreventable and has a multi-factorial etiology and a potential pathogenic link to the acute inflammation of the periapical area, secondary to localized chemical, mechanical, host and/or microbial damage occurring during endodontic treatment. Considering the multitude of heterogeneous technical and pharmacological approaches proposed to control post-operative endodontic pain, the present study primarily comprised an overview of systematic reviews of systematic reviews of randomized clinical trials, summarizing findings on post-operatively administered oral medications for post-operative endodontic pain control, in order to note the most effective type and dosage of such drugs. Secondarily, a narrative review of the current evidence on technical solutions to be observed during endodontic treatment procedures, to control post-operative pain, was conducted to provide integrated evidence-based clinical recommendations for optimal post-operative endodontic pain management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the mandatory requirement for more efficient aircraft due to both economic and environmental purposes, academy and industry are exploring new aircraft design opportunities including the concepts of hybrid-electric and fully electric vehicles. Within this framework, distributed electric propulsion is a key technology for future aviation, as it allows the installation of a theoretically indefinite number of small motors. The blowing effect induced by the propeller can be used to improve aerodynamic performance, hence, thanks to their reduced size, these small motors could be installed along the whole span covering the whole wing. This paper presents a study devoted to the investigation of the aerodynamic effects of distributed electric propulsion installation on a regional aircraft, computing the aerodynamic coefficients using high-fidelity CFD simulations via the RANS approach. Different propeller diameters and trust levels were analysed in climb and landing conditions, applying periodic boundary conditions on a finite span section of the wing, simulating an infinite rectangular wing. The goal of the current study is to quantify the increase of aerodynamic coefficients with reference to power off condition and report data as a function of the propeller's characteristics. The objective is to identify and propose a simplified analytical formulation to be used in the phase of preliminary design. The implementation of such a formula in lower-fidelity tools will allow fast and reliable procedures for preliminary conceptual design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Popliteomeniscal fascicles (PMF) are considered the posterolateral meniscocapsular extensions which connect the lateral meniscus to the edge of the tibia. PMFs disruption leads to hypermobility of the lateral meniscus with pain and locking sensation. Recognition and treatment of PMFs tear remain very challenging. The aim of this systematic review is to collect and analyse the articles concerning popliteomeniscal fascicle disruption from diagnosis to surgical approach. Methods: PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and EMBASE were searched. Various combinations of the keywords "Popliteomeniscal Fascicles", "Lateral Meniscus", "Popliteal Hiatus", "Posterolateral Corner", "Tear" and "Surgical Repair" were used. The original literature search identified a total of 85 articles comprising of duplicates. The PRISMA guidilines were followed. Studies in English language and published in peer-reviewed journals were included. Articles with level of evidence I to IV were included Results: A total of three articles were included in the qualitative analysis. All the articles included are retrospective case series, with a level of evidence IV. Studies concerning patients with pre-operative imaging MRI and clinical assessment, reporting surgical technique and clinical outcomes assessed by physical examination and/or subjective evaluation scales were analysed. Conclusions: MRI and the Figure-4 test allow to assess PMF tears pre-operatively. Arthroscopic evaluation constitutes the gold standard to confirm the diagnosis. Although surgery is considered resolutive for symptoms, there is still controversy about the most appropriate technique. Further higher quality studies are required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI) represents a valid surgical option for symptomatic full-thickness chondral lesions of the knee. Here we report long-term clinical and MRI results of first-generation ACI. Materials and Methods: Fifteen patients (mean age 21.3 years) underwent first-generation ACI for symptomatic chondral defects of the knee between 1997 and 2001. The mean size of the lesions was 5.08 cm(2) (range 2-9 cm(2)). Patients were evaluated using the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) Knee Examination Form, the Tegner Activity Scale, and the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS). High-resolution MRI was used to analyze the repair tissue with nine variables (the MOCART scoring system). Results: The mean follow-up period was 148 months (range 125-177 months). ACI resulted in substantial improvements in all clinical outcome parameters, even as much as 12 years after implantation. A significant decrease in the MOCART score was recorded at final measurement. Reoperation was required in 2 patients; failure was caused by partial detachment of the graft in both cases. Conclusion: Autologous chondrocyte implantation is an effective and durable solution for the treatment of large, full-thickness cartilage and osteochondral lesions, even in young and active middle-aged patients. High-resolution MRI is a useful and noninvasive method for evaluating the repaired tissue. Level Of Evidence: IV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rationale, aims and objectives In 2012, health care spending in Italy reached €114.5 billion, accounting for 7.2% of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and 14.2% of total public spending. Therefore, reducing waste in health facilities could generate substantial cost savings. The objective of this study is to show that Lean Six Sigma represents an appropriate methodology for the development of a clinical pathway which allows to improve quality and to reduce costs in prosthetic hip replacement surgery. Methods The methodology used for the development of a new clinical pathway was Lean Six Sigma. Problem solving in Lean Six Sigma is the DMAIC ( Define, Measure, Analyse, Improve, Control) roadmap, characterized by five operational phases which make possible to reach fixed goals through a rigorous process of defining, measuring, analysing, improving and controlling business problems. Results The following project indicated several variables influencing the inappropriate prolongation of the length of stay for inpatient treatment and corrective actions were performed to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of the process of care. The average length of stay was reduced from 18.9 to 10.6 days (−44%). Conclusion This article shows there is no trade-off between quality and costs: Lean Six Sigma improves quality and, at the same time, reduces costs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The posterolateral corner (PLC) is more likely to be injured in combination with the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) or the anterior cruciate ligament than in isolation. This leads to instability of the knee and loss of function. We hypothesised that combined PCL and PLC reconstruction would restore sufficient stability to allow improvement in patient symptoms and function. Methods: 19 patients who underwent arthroscopic-assisted single-bundle PCL and PLC reconstruction by a single surgeon were analysed retrospectively. The PLC reconstruction was a modified Larson reconstruction of the lateral collateral ligament and the popliteofibular ligament. The IKDC and Tegner scores were used to assess outcome. Dial test and varus laxity were used to assess improvements in clinical laxity. Posterior laxity was tested using the KT-1000. Results: The mean follow-up was 38 months (±(2× standard deviations), ±12.3). There were no postoperative complications. All patients had less than 5 mm posterior step-off. 17 of 19 patients had negative dial and varus stress tests. Measured range of motion was reduced by a mean of 10°, but patients did not report any daily activities restrictions. Tegner scores improved from a median pre-operative value of 2 (range 1-4) to 6 (4-9) at final follow-up. The mean postoperative IKDC score was 86 (±11). Conclusions: Subjectively, the knee stability achieved allowed daily activities. However, there were remaining abnormalities in range of motion, posterior drawer and rotational laxity, suggesting that normal knee laxity was not restored. Level of evidence: IV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article provides a comparison on the development in the manufacturing industry of Russia and Ukraine covering the period of 1995-2004. It focuses on how Russia's natural resource wealth has affected the development of the country's manufacturing sector in comparison to Ukraine. It states that economic transitions between the two countries form similarities in various areas except for Russia's vast natural resources. The author provides a discussion on how resource endowments have contributed towards the difference in the growth of the countries' non-resource industrial sectors.

Chronic quadriceps tendon tears are uncommon. We report about a body builder taking a cocktail of anabolic drugs for several years in whom reconstruction of a chronic quadriceps tendon tear was performed using ipsilateral hamstring tendons with good results despite the 7 month delay between injury and surgery. The use of hamstring tendons is a good option for the management of these lesions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article investigates the link between anti-competitive product market regulations and the international diffusion of productivity shocks using a productivity model that relates productivity growth to improvements in the global technology frontier and the speed of the catch up process. Aside from looking at the prima facie evidence of a link, it also investigates two channels through which regulations that curb competition might affect the diffusion of best practice production techniques. It builds on the work of economists C. Gust and J. Marquez and G. Nicoletti et al, in particular.

The control of microbial air contamination in hospital wards has assumed great importance particularly for those hospital infections where an airborne infection route is hypothesised, such as aspergillosis. Invasive aspergillosis represents one of the most serious complications in immunocompromised patients. For some authors there is a direct association between this pathology and the concentrations of Aspergillus conidia in the air; in addition, reports of aspergillosis concurring during building construction have been frequent. In this study, two haematology wards were monitored for about 2 years in order to make both a qualitative and quantitative evaluation of fungal burden in the air, also in relation to major construction and demolition work taking place in the same building. Air samples were taken from the hospital rooms of neutropenic patients, in the corridors of their ward and outside the building. Total fungal concentration resulted higher outside (mean 572 Colony Forming Units/m3 of air), lower in the corridors (147CFU/m3) and even lower in the rooms (50 CFU/m3). In all the samples we found the development of at least one fungal colony. Cladosporium was the most frequently isolated genus (57%), in contrast to Aspergillus spp. (2%). The average concentration of Cladosporium spp. was 24 CFU/m3 in the rooms, 78 CFU/m3 in the corridors and 318 CFU/m3 outside. The average concentration of Aspergillus spp. was 1.2 CFU/m3 in the rooms, 3.5 CFU/m3 in the corridors, 5.6 CFU/m3 outside. Our observations show low concentrations of Aspergillus fumigatus and A. flavus in all the environments examined and particularly in the rooms (0.09 and 0.10 CFU/m3 respectively); this observation could explain the absence of cases of invasive aspergillosis during the period of air monitoring in the two haematology wards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Failure of repair of the patellar tendon is uncommon. It may occur in association with chronic systemic diseases or after administration of corticosteroid and quinolones. We report the reconstruction of the patellar tendon with allograft, after failed primary repair, of a 23-year-old young with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An abstract of the article " Prosthetic joint infections: outcome after treatment in a case series" by Donato Rosa, Giovanni Balato, Tommaso Ascione, Giovanni Ciaramella, Sigismondo Di Donato, and Vincenzo Crispino is presented.

An abstract of the article "Treatment of massive irreparable rotator cuff tears through biodegradable subacromial InSpace Balloon" by Donato Rosa, Giovanni Balato, Giovanni Ciaramella, Sigismindo Di Donato, Nicola Auletta, and Claudia Andolfi is presented.