Surface modification and characterization of thermoplastic polyurethane

http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/B6TWW-4VP4TNJ-1/2/26b1d7dd60ae5bcab0cfe30ac2771c0

Final report on women’s careers progression

The main objective of this deliverable is to evaluate what impact the CHANGE project had on GEP implementing partners and CHANGE team members. The deliverable is based on the data obtained from self-assessment forms, which were filled in by CHANGE implementing partners in February 2022. This report presents the views on how the participation in CHANGE project changed the institutional gender equality level and what impact was made to individuals included in the CHANGE project. The results show that inclusion in CHANGE project had significant positive organizational and personal impact to the organizations and CHANGE team members

A novel, hydroxyapatite-based screw-like device for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstructions

Background: Rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is one of the most common injuries of the knee. Common techniques for ACL reconstruction require a graft fixation using interference screws. Nowadays, these interference screws are normally made of titanium or polymer/ceramic composites. The main challenge of application of a fixation device made entirely of bioactive ceramic is in relation to the low strength of such materials. The purpose of this study was to evaluate a novel geometry for a fixation device made of pure hydroxyapatite for ACL reconstructions that can overcome some problems of the titanium and the polymer/ceramic screws. Methods: Finite Element Analysis was used for optimization of the stress distribution in conventional interference screw geometry. For experimental evaluation of the new fixation device, ex vivo tests were performed. Results: The innovative screw-like fixation device is characterized by multiple threads with a large thread pitch. The novel design enabled the insertion of the screw into the bone without the application of an external torque or a screwdriver. In turn, it also allowed for the use of low-strength and high-bioactivity materials, like hydroxyapatite. Ex vivo tests showed that the novel screw can sustain pull-out forces up to 476 N, which is comparable to that of the commercially available BioComposite™ interference screws (Arthrex Inc., Germany), as a reference. Conclusions: In summary, the novel screw design is a promising strategy to develop all-ceramic fixation devices for ACL reconstructions, which may eliminate some drawbacks of the current interference screws