Search Results (5,722)

Background/Objectives: Surgical site infection (SSI) rates following breast surgical procedures range from 0.8% to 26%. Both prophylactic antibiotics and antimicrobial-coated sutures have been shown to play an important role in reducing these complications. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of antibiotic prophylaxis in mastectomy procedures using triclosan-coated sutures. Methods: This study included 300 consecutive patients who underwent mastectomy for breast cancer over a two-year period, during which triclosan-coated Vicryl Plus sutures were used. Patients were divided into two groups based on the use of antibiotic prophylaxis. The prophylaxis group received 1.5 g cefuroxime intravenously at anesthesia induction (600 mg clindamycin in case of allergy), while the control group received no antibiotics. Endpoints of interest included differences in SSI and specific wound-healing complications at follow-up. Results: There was no significant difference in the overall SSI rates between the two groups: 23.2% in the prophylaxis group vs. 18.8% in the control group [odds ratio (OR): 0.88; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.69–1.13; vs. OR: 1.16; 95% CI 0.85–1.58; p = 0.343]. No adverse drug reactions were observed. Staphylococcus aureus was the most isolated microorganism in both groups. Multivariate analysis identified prolonged operative time and hematoma formation as significant predictors of postoperative infection. Conclusions: Antibiotic prophylaxis did not reduce the rate of SSI following mastectomy for breast cancer when triclosan-coated sutures were used. Further high-quality, independent studies are warranted, particularly in breast surgery context. Full article

Background/Objectives: Composite resins are widely used in restorative dentistry due to their aesthetic properties and ease of handling. Preheating prior to light polymerization has been proposed to improve flowability, degree of conversion, and mechanical properties. This in vitro study aimed to evaluate the effect of preheating on the microhardness of three nanoparticulate composite resins—IPS Empress Direct (Ivoclar), Filtek Z350 XT (3M-ESPE), and Forma (Ultradent)—when cured with a high-power LED light. Methods: Sixty disc-shaped samples (n = 20 per material) were fabricated and divided into preheated and non-preheated groups. After polishing and 24 h storage in distilled water at 37 °C, samples were subjected to Knoop microhardness testing under a 300 g load for 15 s. Statistical analysis was conducted using R software. Results: Preheating produced a significant increase in surface microhardness for IPS Empress Direct (32.8%) and Filtek Z350 XT (5.8%) (p < 0.05 for both), whereas Forma showed no significant change. Conclusions: Under the conditions of this in vitro study, preheating can enhance the mechanical performance of specific composite resins by increasing microhardness; however, the effect is material-dependent. Full article

Curved roofs constructed using hyperbolic paraboloid (HP) modules are gaining popularity in structural engineering due to their unique aesthetic and structural advantages. Consequently, these studies have investigated steel bar modules based on HP geometry, focusing on how variations in geometric configuration and bar topology affect internal force distribution and overall structural performance. Each module was designed on a 4 × 4 m square plan, incorporating external bars that formed the spatial frame and internal grid bars that filled the frame’s interior. Parametric modeling was conducted using Dynamo, while structural analysis and design were performed in Autodesk Robot Structural Analysis Professional (ARSAP). Key variables included the vertical displacement of frame corners (0–1.0 m at 0.25 m intervals), the orientation and spacing of internal bar divisions, and the overall mesh topology. A total of 126 structural models were analyzed, representing four distinct bar topology variants, including both planar and non-planar mesh configurations. The results demonstrate that structural efficiency is significantly influenced by the geometry and topology of the internal bar system, with notable differences observed across the various structural types. Computational analysis revealed that asymmetric configurations of non-planar quadrilateral subdivisions yielded the highest efficiency, while symmetric arrangements proved optimal for planar panel applications. These findings, along with observed design trends, offer valuable guidance for the development and optimization of steel bar structures based on HP geometry, applicable to both single-module and multi-module configurations. Full article

As the fields of plastic surgery and dermatology advance, regenerative medicine is positioned to play a transformative role in both aesthetic and reconstructive procedures. This narrative review examines current and emerging applications of biologic therapies, including exosomes, platelet-rich plasma (PRP), and adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs) with an emphasis on their mechanisms of action, clinical efficacy, and regulatory considerations. We also explore synergistic strategies, such as the combined use of biologics with laser-based technologies, which may enhance therapeutic outcomes. Looking forward, we highlight promising developments in mitochondrial-based therapies, microRNA-based therapies, synthetic exosome mimetics, and AI-assisted biologic design, offering a framework for personalized, precision-driven interventions. By synthesizing existing clinical data alongside scientific and ethical challenges, this narrative review provides a comprehensive perspective on how regenerative therapies are transforming the landscape of aesthetics. Ultimately, successful integration of these innovations will require rigorous validation, ethical responsibility, and a patient-centered approach by plastic surgeons and dermatologists to ensure both safety and accessibility in mainstream practice. Full article

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a neoplasm of plasma cells. Despite the development of increasingly advanced treatments, multiple myeloma remains challenging to cure completely. Consequently, the underlying mechanisms of this neoplasm are being investigated to identify new therapeutic targets and understand chemoresistance. A particular focus has been placed on the MM bone marrow microenvironment, with chemokines being one of its key components. This review examines the role of chemokines that activate the CXCR2 and CXCR3 receptors in both monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) and MM, highlighting all CXC chemokines and their receptors, including CXCL1, CXCL8/IL-8, CXCL9, CXCL10, and platelet factor 4. We focus on the direct effects of selected CXC chemokines on MM cells, specifically their roles in proliferation, migration, interaction with bone marrow cells, the formation of extramedullary disease, and chemoresistance. Additionally, we explore the impact of these chemokines on the MM bone marrow microenvironment, particularly in relation to mesenchymal stromal cells, myeloid-derived suppressor cells, osteoclasts, M2 macrophages, and natural killer cells, as well as processes such as bone destruction and angiogenesis. Finally, we discuss the potential use of drugs targeting the two chemokine axes described, with a focus on inhibitors and adoptive cell therapy. Full article

In the face of the challenge of urban water resource degradation, green infrastructure construction has become a core strategy in modern urban water resource management. Urban aquatic horticulture (UAH), as an important component of this strategy, possesses the dual value of ecological purification and landscape aesthetics. However, its practical implementation is often constrained by public awareness and acceptance. This study aims to address the mismatch between the dual values of urban aquatic horticulture and public perception, and to develop an optimised plant selection strategy that integrates purification functions with public perception. Based on literature reviews, 18 images of aquatic plant landscapes showcasing different ornamental forms, species richness, and life types were created. A questionnaire survey was conducted on 320 participants to assess their perceptions of landscape aesthetic appeal and visual preferences, and a quantitative relationship model was established using multiple stepwise linear regression analysis. The public’s aesthetic perception of aquatic plant landscapes with different ornamental forms and species richness varies significantly, with flowering plant landscapes more likely to evoke aesthetic perception than non-flowering landscapes. The public’s visual preferences for landscape attributes significantly influence their aesthetic perception of aquatic plant landscapes. A multiple stepwise linear regression equation was established to model the relationship between the aesthetic perception of aquatic plant community landscapes and the public’s visual preferences for landscape attributes. There is no significant association between species richness and perceived landscape aesthetic appeal. The study developed an optimised selection strategy for aquatic plants that integrates purification functions with public perception, providing theoretical basis and practical guidance for the scientific configuration of aquatic horticultural systems in urban green infrastructure. In landscape design, flowering plants with ornamental value should be prioritised, with emphasis on landscape layers, colour, and spatial shaping to enhance public acceptance and promote the sustainable development of urban water resource management. Full article

Background: Dental implants have become integral in restoring partially or completely edentulous patients due to their reported long-term success. While titanium remains the primary material for implants and abutments due to its mechanical properties and biocompatibility, zirconia has emerged as a promising alternative, especially for aesthetic regions. This systematic review aimed to assess whether zirconia abutments present a rational alternative to titanium in modern implantology, focusing on their mechanical and clinical performances. Method: The workflow used for this review included the PRISMA checklist. The eligibility criteria included various study types, with a preference given to clinical trials. The search strategy employed the PICO model, including a large number of relevant studies, and online research was carried on the online databases PubMed and Scopus, with “implant” AND “abutment” AND “zirconia” and “zirconia abutment” AND “mechanical properties” used as search strings. Results: Six clinical studies were included with an adequate follow-up and patient cohort; they suggest that while zirconia abutments offer improved aesthetics and biological integration, concerns persist regarding their mechanical properties, particularly regarding their fatigue resistance and connection stability. In vitro studies have revealed differences between titanium and zirconia abutments, with the latter showing greater susceptibility to fatigue-induced deformation and fretting wear. The clinical outcomes, however, demonstrate favourable long-term performance, with zirconia abutments promoting healthy soft tissue conditions. CAD/CAM technologies enable the precise customization of zirconia abutments, enhancing their compatibility and aesthetic outcomes. Conclusions: Although this review faces limitations due to the scarcity of comparative studies and varied methodologies, it underscores the potential of zirconia abutments in implantology. In conclusion, while zirconia abutments offer promising advantages, the careful consideration of patient-specific factors and the long-term outcomes is warranted for their optimal utilisation in implant-supported prostheses. Full article

Against the backdrop of rapid digitization of cultural heritage, assessing the public’s genuine perception of digital heritage has become a critical issue in the study of cultural sustainability and communication. This study takes the “Digital Dunhuang Museum” exhibition in Guangzhou as a case, focusing on the differences and underlying mechanisms in public aesthetic perception of digital Dunhuang murals. Integrating eye-tracking experiments, subjective image evaluations, and semi-structured interviews, the research innovatively introduces multimodal visual behaviour and physiological data as core indicators in the field of digital cultural heritage. It systematically compares the explicit attitudes and implicit responses of audiences with different artistic backgrounds during the aesthetic perception process. The results reveal that participants with an art-related background show significantly higher scores in subjective dimensions such as pleasure, attraction, and visiting intention. They also demonstrate stronger visual engagement and emotional arousal in physiological dimensions, including the number of fixations, total fixation duration, and pupil diameter changes. This study constructs a mechanism of aesthetic perception for digital cultural heritage based on “visual attention–cognitive processing–emotional arousal”, enriching the public’s understanding of digital cultural heritage conservation and communication from both cognitive and emotional perspectives. The findings provide empirical support for the design of digital exhibitions of cultural heritage and expand the methodological and cognitive approaches in cultural sustainability research, offering important theoretical and practical implications. Full article

Background: Conservative mastectomy with prepectoral breast reconstruction is becoming increasingly widespread and validated in recent years. Today, while aesthetic advantages and improvement in quality-of-life outcomes are widely acknowledged, oncological safety remains subject of debate. There is limited evidence on residual breast tissue after conservative mastectomy, and it still represents an unknown risk for local recurrence. The recent spread of this surgical technique precludes a standardized surgical approach in case of local recurrence of ipsilateral breast cancer, and the lack of evidence in the literature complicates the decision-making process. The objective of this study is to describe the surgical treatment of local relapses for breast cancer patients following conservative mastectomy and prepectoral implant-based reconstruction. Methods: Between January 2018 and May 2024 at a single institution, 648 consecutive patients underwent conservative mastectomy and prepectoral reconstruction as their primary treatment. We identified 12 patients with T1-2 breast cancer who subsequently had histologically confirmed ipsilateral breast cancer recurrence and a local wide excision or radical mastectomy were performed. Each clinical case was discussed in a multidisciplinary meeting to define the most appropriate surgical treatment. At time of diagnosis of recurrence, patients with lymph node metastasis or systemic involvement were excluded from the study. Results: Among 648 consecutive patients who underwent conservative mastectomy, 12 with histologically confirmed ipsilateral breast cancer recurrence were included. The mean interval to recurrence was 43 months (range 10–76 months) from the primary operation. Recurrence sites were as follows: upper outer quadrant in four patients (33.4%), upper inner quadrant in three (25.0%), lower inner quadrant in two (16.6%), lower outer quadrant in one (8.4%), and central quadrant with nipple involvement in two (16.6%). Of the 12 patients, 9 (75%) underwent wide local excision, including 2 who also received partial capsulectomy, while 3 (25%) required radical mastectomy with implant removal. Adjuvant radiation therapy was administered to 6 patients (50%)—5/6 (83.3%) in the excision group and 1/6 (16.7%) in the mastectomy group. No significant differences were observed in distant disease–free survival or overall survival between the two groups. Conclusions: Currently, surgical treatment of ipsilateral breast tumor recurrence following conservative mastectomy and prepectoral breast reconstruction is not reported in the literature, and this study represents the first instance where wide local excision is described. The management of ipsilateral recurrence should be discussed in multidisciplinary meetings and could be performed safely in selected cases, sparing the prosthesis and avoiding radical mastectomy. Full article

Implantable biomaterials are widely used in modern medicine, especially in orthopaedics, cardiovascular surgery, dentistry, and plastic and reconstructive surgery. The issue of the interaction of implants with body tissues and the risk of infection associated with them is one of the most studied and topical issues in medicine. It is very important to find a biomaterial that effectively combines both microbiology and tissue compatibility aspects. The aim of this research work was to determine the adhesion and colonization rates of Staphylococcus epidermidis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Candida albicans on smooth, microtextured, and macro-textured silicone biomaterials in an in vitro study. A total of 90 silicone biomaterial samples were used, 30 for each type of biomaterial. In each of the biomaterial groups, half of the samples (n = 15) were used to determine the adhesion intensity and the other half to determine the colonization intensity on the active surface of the biomaterial samples. The study found that Staphylococcus epidermidis and Pseudomonas aeruginosa had the highest adhesion intensity on the macro-textured implant, while Candida albicans adhered best to smooth. Among the microorganisms, Pseudomonas aeruginosa demonstrated the highest colonization rate, followed by Staphylococcus epidermidis and then Candida albicans. The most intensive colonization of microorganisms was on the macro-textured implant, then on the micro-textured, and then on the smooth. The smooth and micro-textured implants did not show statistically significant differences in the intensity of adhesion and colonization. The biomaterials did not show pro-oxidant or anti-oxidant properties, and no lipid peroxidation was induced by the biomaterials. Full article

Jordan’s aging population faces a critical challenge: a strong cultural preference for aging at home, rooted in Islamic ethics of familial care (birr al-wālidayn), conflicts with housing stock that is largely unsafe and inaccessible. This first national mixed-methods study examines the intersection of home modifications, socio-economic barriers, and cultural constraints to aging in place. Data from 587 surveys and 35 interviews across seven governorates were analyzed using chi-square tests, linear regression, and thematic coding. Results indicate that while physical modifications significantly improve accessibility to key spaces like kitchens and reception areas (majlis) (χ² = 341.86, p < 0.001), their adoption is severely limited. Socio-economic barriers are paramount, with 34% of households unable to afford the median modification cost of over $1500. Cultural resistance is equally critical; 22% of widows avoid modifications like grab bars to prevent the ‘medicalization’ of their home, prioritizing aesthetic and symbolic integrity over safety. The study reveals a significant gendered decision-making dynamic, with men controlling 72% of structural modifications (β = 0.27, p < 0.001). We conclude that effective policy must integrate universal design with Islamic care ethics. We propose three actionable recommendations: (1) mandating universal design in building codes (aligned with SDG 11), (2) establishing means-tested subsidy programs (aligned with SDG 10), and (3) launching public awareness campaigns co-led by faith leaders to reframe modifications as preserving dignity (karama) (aligned with SDG 3). This approach provides a model for other rapidly aging Middle Eastern societies facing similar cultural-infrastructural tensions. Full article

Background/Objectives: Maxillary defects, whether congenital or acquired, can compromise chewing, speech, and aesthetics. This systematic review aimed to evaluate the application and characteristics of definitive palatal obturators in the rehabilitation of such defects, analyzing techniques of fabrication, materials, outcomes of the fabrication, and limitations reported in the literature. Methods: The review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA 2020 guidelines and was registered in PROSPERO (ID: 1011648). A comprehensive search was performed in PubMed, Scopus, Lilacs, and Google Scholar for studies published from 1 January 2014 to 1 January 2025. Inclusion criteria comprised adult patients treated with definitive palatal obturators and with reported follow-up. Exclusion criteria included studies on children, animals, or lacking patient data. Two reviewers independently screened studies and assessed eligibility. Bias was evaluated qualitatively across five domains. No meta-analysis was conducted; data were synthesized descriptively using charts and tables. The study was funded by the Italian Ministry of Health—Current Research IRCCS. Results: A total of 59 studies involving 83 patients (46 males, 37 females; mean age 54.6 ± 13.8 years) were included. Mucormycosis and squamous cell carcinoma were the primary causes of defects. Conventional impressions using alginate and silicone were most common, while digital techniques were reported in only 6.6% of cases. All definitive obturators were fabricated using acrylic resin, with some featuring hollow bulbs, velopharyngeal extensions, or magnetic retention. Multiple sources of bias were observed. Conclusions: Definitive palatal obturators provide effective functional and aesthetic rehabilitation for maxillary defects. However, evidence is limited by methodological weaknesses, lack of standardization, and underutilization of digital technologies. Future studies should focus on improving reporting quality, adopting innovative fabrication protocols, and generating higher-level clinical evidence to support best practices. Full article

Pepper is a major horticultural crop cultivated extensively worldwide. Among its various agronomic characteristics, fruit length is a key trait influencing both yield and visual quality. Despite its importance, the genetic mechanisms regulating fruit length in Capsicum remain insufficiently characterized, hindering the development of high-yielding and aesthetically desirable cultivars. In this study, fruits at three developmental stages (0, 15, and 30 days after flowering) were sampled from the long-fruit mutant fe1 and its wild-type progenitor LY0. Phenotypic characterization and transcriptomic sequencing were conducted to identify candidate genes associated with fruit length regulation. Morphological analysis revealed that the most pronounced difference in fruit length occurred at 30 days after flowering. RNA-seq analysis identified 41,194 genes, including 13,512 differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Enrichment analysis highlighted key pathways, such as plant–pathogen interaction, plant hormone signal transduction, and the MAPK signaling pathway. DEG classification suggested that several downregulated genes related to early auxin responses may contribute to the regulation of fruit elongation. Notably, the gibberellin signaling gene SCL13 (Caz12g26660), transcription factors MYB48 (Caz11g07190) and ERF3-like (Caz10g00810), and the cell-wall-modifying gene XTH15-like (Caz07g19100) showed significantly elevated expression in 30-day-old fruits of fe1. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) further revealed a strong positive correlation among these genes. Quantitative RT-PCR analysis of eight selected DEGs confirmed the RNA-seq results. This study provides a foundational framework for dissecting the molecular regulatory network of fruit length in Capsicum, offering valuable insights for breeding programs. Full article

In the evolving discourse of affective urbanism, emotions are increasingly recognized as fundamental, systemic drivers shaping the social, perceptual, and symbolic dimensions of urban space. Meanwhile, advances in visual technologies and media aesthetics have transformed contemporary cities into visually saturated environments, where visual cues actively influence how urban space is perceived, navigated, and emotionally experienced. While prior research has addressed affective belonging and spatial identity, these studies often treat emotion and visual design as separate influences rather than examining their interdependent, systemic roles. To address this gap, this study develops an emotion-driven systemic model to analyze how visual design activates affective pathways that contribute to the sustainable construction of place branding. Drawing on survey data from 134 residents in Wuxi, China, we employed Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) to examine the interrelations among emotionally durable visual design, urban emotion, and place branding. The results reveal that visual attachment design (VAD) significantly strengthens place branding through emotional mediation, while visual behavior design (VBD) directly enhances sustainable branding by fostering participatory engagement even without emotional mediation. In contrast, visual function design (VFD) demonstrates limited impact, underscoring its insufficiency as a stand-alone strategy. These findings underscore the value of modeling emotionally durable visual communication as a system that links emotion, behavior, and identity in citizen-centered place branding. Full article

Mosaic ornaments and periodic geometric patterns are deeply rooted in cultural heritage and contemporary design, where symmetry plays a fundamental role in both aesthetic and cognitive perception. This study develops an algebraic method for generating symmetrical and periodic mosaic structures using operations in Galois fields. The approach demonstrates that the intrinsic properties of finite fields naturally give rise to symmetry and periodicity, eliminating the need for specific initial patterns, even when applied to relatively simple algebraic expressions such as the Bernoulli lemniscate and the cissoid of Diocles. The proposed algorithm offers the advantages of simplicity and the ability to provide gradual transitions from one mosaic structure to another. Furthermore, it is demonstrated that standardization of algebraic expressions used for mosaic generation can be efficiently achieved through discrete logarithm operations. A novel method for computing discrete logarithms is introduced. The results confirm that symmetrical structures of high complexity can be obtained through simple expressions, and their periodicity becomes more pronounced with increasing field characteristics. This approach offers practical applications in textile and wallpaper design, smart materials, and psychological testing, while also suggesting new perspectives for the analysis of mosaic-like natural systems where symmetry is a defining property. Full article