Evaluation of Hardness and Wear of Conventional and Transparent Zirconia Ceramics, Feldspathic Ceramic, Glaze, and Enamel.

The aim of the study was to compare the hardness, coefficient of friction, and wear experienced by four different ceramic samples: 3Y-TZP zirconium oxide ceramics-Zi-Ceramill Zi (Amman Girrbach), 5Y-PSZ transparent zirconium oxide ceramics-Zol-Ceramill Zolid (Amman Girrbach), Sak-feldspathic ceramics-Sakura Interaction (Elephant), and Glaze (Amman Girrbach). The Vickers hardness of the samples was measured. Friction tests ball-on-disc were performed between the discs of four ceramics and a zirconia ceramic ball, then a premolar tooth as a counter-sample.

Interdisciplinary consensus statements on imaging of DRUJ instability and TFCC injuries.

Objectives: The purpose of this agreement was to establish evidence-based consensus statements on imaging of distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) instability and triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) injuries by an expert group using the Delphi technique.

Methods: Nineteen hand surgeons developed a preliminary list of questions on DRUJ instability and TFCC injuries. Radiologists created statements based on the literature and the authors' clinical experience.

Interdisciplinary consensus statements on imaging of scapholunate joint instability.

Objectives: The purpose of this agreement was to establish evidence-based consensus statements on imaging of scapholunate joint (SLJ) instability by an expert group using the Delphi technique.

Methods: Nineteen hand surgeons developed a preliminary list of questions on SLJ instability. Radiologists created statements based on the literature and the authors' clinical experience.

On the reintroduction of the endangered thick-shelled river mussel Unio crassus: The importance of the river's longitudinal profile.

Freshwater mussels of the order Unionida provide important ecosystem functions and services. Unfortunately, some previously widespread species are now seriously endangered. To restore the historical range of the population of Unio crassus in the Biała River, southern Poland, the species was reintroduced into a series of 'stepping stones' joining two remnant populations.

Severe Crush Injury to the Forearm and Hand: The Role of Microsurgery.

The main goals of treating severe crush injuries are debriding away devitalized tissue and filling any resultant dead space with vascularized tissue. In the authors' experience, the most ideal methods for soft tissue coverage in treating crush injuries are the iliac flap, the adipofascial lateral arm flap, and the gracilis flap. Accompanying bone defects respond very well to free corticoperiosteal flaps.