Search Results (4,768)

Maturity estimation before seed collection is necessary in reducing the costs of seed collection; it allows vigorous seeds to be collected, ensuring that maximum germination will be reached and producing quality planting stock. In addition to this, appropriate temperature, seed size, pH, light, and stress conditions also influence germination. Cones of Cedrus deodara were collected at different intervals to estimate the maturity of the cones. A seed germination test was conducted in the laboratory under constant temperature, seed size, pH, light conditions, and water and salinity stress conditions. Significant (p < 0.05) variations in cones, such as seed morphological characteristics, germination, and related parameters, of C. deodara at different maturity periods were observed. The morphological traits of cones, such as seed weight, seed length, seed width, and seed germination, increased with increasing maturity, while the cone weight, moisture contents, specific gravity, and seed moisture decreased with increasing maturity. A constant temperature of 15 °C to 20 °C (98.0% to 92.0%) and the use of large-sized seeds (99.0%) led to maximum germination. Lower concentrations of Polyethylene glycol (98.0%) and NaCl (78.0%) contributed to maximum seed germination. The germination of C. deodara is temperature-dependent and seed size, light, and high water and salinity stress significantly influence seed germination. Full article

In ports with a significant density of non-AIS vessels, there is an increased risk of collisions. This is because physical limitations restrict the maneuverability of AIS vessels, while small vessels that do not have AIS are unpredictable. To help with collision prevention, we propose an augmented reality system that detects vessels from video stream and estimates speed with a single sideway-mounted camera. The goal is to visualize a cone for risk assessment. The estimation of speed is executed by geometric relations between the camera and the ship, which were used to estimate distances between points in a known time interval. The most important part of the proposal is vessel speed estimation by a monocular camera validated by a laser speed measurement. This will help port authorities to manage risks. This system differs from similar trials as it uses a single stationary camera linked to the authorities and not to the bridge crew. Full article

Thyroid hormone (TH) regulates cell proliferation, differentiation, and metabolism. Increased TH levels in circulation are associated with a higher incidence of age-related macular degeneration. In mice, TH treatment causes photoreceptor degeneration, which is accompanied by an increase in receptor-interacting serine/threonine-protein kinase 3 (RIPK3) in the retina. Here, we investigated the contribution of RIPK3/necroptosis to TH-induced photoreceptor degeneration using mice deficient in RIPK3 and the necroptotic mixed lineage kinase domain-like protein (MLKL). Wild-type (C57BL/6) and mutant mice at postnatal day 30 received triiodothyronine (T3, 20 µg/mL in drinking water) for four weeks, followed by the evaluation of photoreceptor survival/death and retinal function. Deletion of Ripk3 preserved photoreceptor integrity against T3-induced degeneration, evidenced by improved retinal morphology, increased cone density, improved retinal light responses, and reduced cell death. This protection was observed in both global and photoreceptor-specific Ripk3 knockout mice. In contrast, the deletion of Mlkl did not protect photoreceptors. This work supports the view that RIPK3, but not MLKL, contributes to TH-induced photoreceptor degeneration. The lack of protection from Mlkl deletion suggests that RIPK3’s action is likely mediated via a necrosome-independent mechanism. These findings provide significant insight into how TH signaling induces photoreceptor degeneration and implicate RIPK3 as a potential therapeutic target. Full article

Several decades after the development of FEM in computer-based form, which is a milestone in the evaluation of mechanical systems, the method has been adopted to analyze the biomechanical response of human skeletal structures. This innovative technique has generated new questions, but also new results, and, at the same time, competitive environments with explosive development, in the recent period. This research is focused on analyzing, using FEM, the extreme thermal variations produced at the level of two oro-facial systems (one control and one subjected to orthodontic therapy using a fixed metallic orthodontic appliance). The objective of the study was to determine the temperature evolution in different dental structures subjected to extreme temperatures given by variations between very cold and very hot foods. Each system was exposed to a succession of extreme thermal regimes (70…−18…70… °C and −18…70…−18… °C). In order to conduct this research, we used the case of a 14-year-old female patient. Following an orthodontic evaluation, we discovered that the patient had dento-alveolar disharmony with crowding. The straight-wire method of applying a fixed metallic orthodontic appliance was chosen. As complementary examinations, the patient was subjected to a bimaxillary CBCT. Using a series of programs (InVesalius, Geomagic, SolidWorks, and AnsysWorkbench), a three-dimensional model was obtained. This model contained jaws and teeth. Also, brackets, tubes, and orthodontic wires can be incorporated into the model. Following the simulations carried out in this study, it was found that thermal variations from the dental pulp are more severe for the oro-facial system with a fixed metallic orthodontic appliance (regardless of the type of thermal stimulus used). Thus, even today, with all the facilities available in the dental materials industry, metallic orthodontic devices present significant thermal conductivity, generating harmful effects on the dental structures. The reading of the results was performed on the virtual model, more precisely, on the internal dental structures (enamel, dentin, and pulp). A statistical study was not performed because it was considered that, in other patients, the results would be similar. Full article

Introduction: Diabetes mellitus negatively influences oral health, significantly contributing to the worsening of odonto-periodontal pathology. Accurate diagnosis and monitoring of lesions are essential to prevent complications. CBCT (cone beam computed tomography) provides a detailed image of bone structures, being a valuable tool in this context. Materials and methods: Thisprospective observational comparative study included 120 patients with chronic periodontitis, divided into two equal groups: 60 with type 2 diabetes mellitus and 60 without systemic diseases. All were examined clinically and radiologically using high-resolution CBCT. Results: Diabetic patients presented a significantly higher mean bone loss (4.7 mm) compared to the non-diabetic patients (3.0 mm). Periodontal pockets >5 mm were more frequent in the diabetic group (75% vs. 50%). CBCT revealed vertical defects and extensive periapical lesions especially in patients with diabetes. Three-dimensional imaging allowed for detailed assessment and clear differentiation between the severity of cases. Conclusions: CBCT is essential in the early identification and evaluation of periodontal disease in diabetic patients. The use of this method significantly contributes to the correlation of clinical and imaging data, optimizing the diagnosis and treatment plan. Full article

Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate the cervical regeneration process following monopolar electrosurgical conization (MESC), using a multimodal approach including ultrasonographic, cytologic, colposcopic, and histologic assessments, and to determine the relationship between the extent of excision and the capacity for cervical tissue regeneration. Methods: This prospective observational study included 28 patients who underwent MESC due to abnormal cervical cytology or biopsy-confirmed cervical intraepithelial neoplasia. Preoperative, postoperative one month and six month cervical measurements were obtained using two-dimensional transvaginal ultrasonography. Monthly colposcopic evaluations were conducted, cervical biopsies were taken at the third month, and a cytological assessment was performed at the sixth month. Cervical volume and length regeneration were calculated and analyzed in relation to the dimensions of the excised cone. Regeneration percentages and their correlations with excised tissue dimensions were evaluated using paired t-tests and Pearson correlation analysis. Results: Mean cervical volume and length regeneration rates at six months were 84.61% ± 5.64 and 86.36% ± 3.33, respectively. The transformation zone was histologically visible in 32.1% of patients at three months and cytologically in 75.9% at six months. An inverse correlation was observed between both cone volume and length and cervical regeneration (p < 0.005). Patients with larger preoperative cervical dimensions exhibited a higher regenerative capacity. Positive surgical margins were found in only one patient (3.4%), and no high-grade cytologic abnormalities were noted at follow-up. Conclusions: MESC may enable substantial cervical regeneration within six months. Larger excisions impair healing and delay transformation zone reformation, which may inform the optimal timing for initiating gynecological and colposcopic examinations, as well as for performing cervical interventions when indicated. Full article

Bentonite materials are extensively used in cutoff walls at landfill sites. This study calculates the stress and permeability characteristics of bentonite materials using the piezocone penetration test (CPTU) and ABAQUS simulations. The lateral effective stress of bentonite materials is evaluated using arching models, lateral squeezing models, and a modified lateral squeezing model. Pore pressure dissipation types are categorized into standard and non-standard, with the coefficient of consolidation obtained using the half dissipation time of excess pore pressure (t₅₀) method. In the standard dissipation type, the excess pore pressure gradually dissipates over time after the cone stops penetrating. In contrast, the non-standard dissipation type is characterized by an initial increase in pore pressure until it reaches a maximum value, followed by a decrease to hydrostatic pressure. Additionally, the pore pressure dissipation process in bentonite cutoff walls is recorded and analyzed over various time intervals. Finally, the relationship between hydraulic conductivity and t₅₀ at landfill sites is established based on standard and non-standard dissipation types using CPTU and ABAQUS methods. The t₅₀ method is used for the standard dissipation type, while a modified t_50m method is used for the non-standard dissipation type from CPTU and a t_50m method is used in the non-standard dissipation type from CPTU. The t_50m is the modified value derived from t₅₀. Cutoff walls made from bentonite materials offer the advantage of enhancing the isolation effects and meeting the design requirement of permeability (1.0 × 10⁻⁷ cm/s). Full article

Soil void ratio is a key parameter in geotechnical engineering design and geological hazard prevention. However, existing methods for determining void ratio are plagued by issues such as difficulty in sampling, susceptibility of samples to disturbance, and heavy experimental workload. The cone penetration test, with its advantages of simple operation, high survey efficiency, and high accuracy, has gradually become a commonly used in situ testing method in engineering investigations. Based on data from the Yellow River Delta, this paper evaluates the applicability of several models related to void ratio. Combined with the Robertson density prediction model, a semi-empirical model for predicting void ratio based on the piezocone penetration test (CPTu), in situ testing is proposed, which enables efficient evaluation by establishing a conversion mechanism between soil density and void ratio. Verification using a database built from six types of nearly saturated sedimentary soil data shows that underestimation of predicted density will amplify the error of soil void ratio. The prediction accuracy is significantly improved after coefficient correction. Finally, a simple model for predicting void ratio that only requires CPTu data is developed, providing a sampling-free evaluation tool for estuarine and marine sedimentary areas. Full article

Background and Objectives: The cultivation of Humulus lupulus has been encouraged in Brazil, despite the country’s climate generally being unfavorable for its development. This study aimed to evaluate the chemical composition, antioxidant activity, and photoprotective potential of four H. lupulus varieties, Cascade, Columbus, Comet, and Nugget, cultivated in the northwestern region of Paraná State, Brazil. Methods: The varieties were grown in experimental plots. Crude extracts (CEs) of cones and leaves were obtained through dynamic maceration with solvent renewal (96% ethanol), followed by concentration in a rotary evaporator. Assays for sun protection factor (SPF), total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), 2.2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH^•) radical scavenging activity, and 2.2′-azinobis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS^•⁺) were performed to assess antioxidant activity. Chemical profiling was performed using UHPLC-MS/MS. Results: UHPLC-MS/MS analysis revealed the presence of phenolic and organic acids, flavonoids, phenolic aldehydes, alkaloids, and α-benzopyrone-type lactones, with high concentrations of rutin (>500 µg/g) in both cones and leaves. Total phenolic content ranged from 69.70 to 95.95 µg gallic acid equivalent/mg CE; flavonoids from 170.53 to 696.67 µg quercetin equivalent/mg CE; DPPH^• EC₅₀ values ranged from 1.34 to 3.13 mg/mL; FRAP from 1.19 to 2.52 µM ferrous sulfate/mg; ABTS^•⁺ from 5.11 to 22.60 mM Trolox/mg CE; and SPF ranged from 16.02 to 39.48 in the CE of H. lupulus cones and leaves. Conclusions: These findings demonstrate that the cultivated varieties possess antioxidant and photoprotective properties, encouraging further studies to explore their potential applications. Full article

This study proposes an image processing framework based on Bionic principles to optimize 3D visual perception in virtual reality (VR) systems. By simulating the physiological mechanisms of the human visual system, the framework significantly enhances depth perception and visual fidelity in VR content. The research focuses on three core algorithms: Gabor texture feature extraction algorithm based on directional selectivity of neurons in the V1 region of the visual cortex, which enhances edge detection capability through fourth-order Gaussian kernel; improved Retinex model based on adaptive mechanism of retinal illumination, achieving brightness balance under complex illumination through horizontal–vertical dual-channel decomposition; the RGB adaptive adjustment algorithm, based on the three color response characteristics of cone cells, integrates color temperature compensation with depth cue optimization, enhances color naturalness and stereoscopic depth. Build a modular processing system on the Unity platform, integrate the above algorithms to form a collaborative optimization process, and ensure per-frame processing time meets VR real-time constraints. The experiment uses RMSE, AbsRel, and SSIM metrics, combined with subjective evaluation to verify the effectiveness of the algorithm. The results show that compared with traditional methods (SSAO, SSR, SH), our algorithm demonstrates significant advantages in simple scenes and marginal superiority in composite metrics for complex scenes. Collaborative processing of three algorithms can significantly improve depth map noise and enhance the user’s subjective experience. The research results provide a solution that combines biological rationality and engineering practicality for visual optimization in fields such as implantable metaverse, VR healthcare, and education. Full article

Background: Maxillary sinus floor augmentation (MSFA) is commonly used to increase posterior maxillary bone volume prior to implant placement. Although generally successful, late complications can impact long-term outcomes. The purpose of the study was to estimate the incidence and timing of atypical late complications following (MSFA) using bovine xenohybrid bone grafts. The study also aimed to evaluate whether preoperative bone volume is associated with the risk of complications. Methods: This retrospective cohort study was conducted at the Center of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Danube Private University, Krems-Stein, Austria, and included patients who underwent MSFA with bovine xenohybrid bone grafts and either simultaneous or staged implant placement between January 2020 and December 2023. Preoperative bone volume of the posterior maxilla measured via cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) in the planned implant insertion position. The primary endpoint was the time (days) from MSFA to the occurrence of a graft-related complication (defined as atypical if occurring more than 6 months after MSFA and not related to peri-implantitis) The covariates included subjects’ age, sex, the quantity of graft used for MSFA, timing of dental implant insertion (simultaneous vs. staged) and implant dimensions. Kaplan–Meier analysis and Cox proportional hazards regression were used to evaluate time-to-event data. Only one graft site per patient was analyzed. Results: Atypical complications occurred in 9 out of 47 patients (19.1%), with an average time to onset of 645 days. In a multivariable analysis, a lower preoperative bone volume was found to be an independent predictor of an increased risk of complications (hazard ratio [HR]: 0.972; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.925–1.021; p = 0.252). However, the quantity of graft used for MSFA was not found to be a predictor (p = 0.46). Conclusions: Within the limitations of a retrospective study, reduced native bone volume appears to increase the risk of atypical late complications following MSFA with bovine xenohybrid grafts. This makes closer clinical and radiologic follow-up of patients over a longer period very necessary. Full article

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a sleep-related breathing disorder characterized by a reduction or complete interruption of airflow during sleep, with episodes lasting at least 10 s. In severe cases, blood oxygen saturation can drop significantly, reaching levels as low as 40%. The aim of this study was to compare CAD/CAM-assisted maxillomandibular advancement (MMA) with traditional surgical techniques in the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). We conducted a retrospective analysis of patients who underwent maxillomandibular advancement (MMA) for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), all operated on consecutively by the same surgeon between 2022 and 2024 at the Maxillofacial Surgery of Policlinico Hospital San Camillo-Forlanini, Rome, Italy. This study included 18 patients with severe obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) who underwent maxillomandibular advancement (MMA) surgery. The patients had a mean age of 38 years; 11 were male and 7 were female. Patients were divided into two groups: Group A, treated using a CAD/CAM-assisted surgical approach (five male and four female), and Group B, treated with conventional surgical techniques (six male and three female). Results: The comparison between preoperative and postoperative CT scans, along with 3D reconstructions using dedicated software, demonstrated a significant increase in airway volume following the skeletal repositioning. Notably, airway volume increased from 19.25 ± 0.5 mm³ to 26.14 ± 1.264 mm³ in group A and 20.564 ± 0.71 mm³ to 25.425 ±1.103 mm³ in group B. Conclusion: No significant differences were observed between the CAD/CAM-assisted and conventional surgical techniques for maxillomandibular advancement (MMA) in the treatment of severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Both approaches led to a reduction in the apnea–hypopnea index (AHI) and an increase in posterior airway space (PAS). However, the use of software and digital planning through CAD/CAM technology allows for greater precision and shorter operative times, making the procedure more efficient overall. Full article

Background: This prospective clinical study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) in guided bone regeneration (GBR) prior to dental implant placement. Material and methods: Sixty-five patients with alveolar bone defects were randomly assigned to three groups. All groups received a composite graft consisting of 70% allograft and 30% xenograft. Group A received the graft combined with PRF. Group B received the graft with PRF and a resorbable collagen membrane. Group C (control) received the same graft and membrane without PRF. Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) was used to assess bone regeneration at baseline and 6 months postoperatively. Implant stability was evaluated using ISQ values at the time of implant placement (6 months after grafting) and again at 3 to 4 months during the second-stage uncovering procedure. Soft tissue healing, postoperative complications, and pain scores were also recorded. Results: Group B showed the best outcomes, with the highest mean vertical bone gain (3.0 ± 0.4 mm), greatest implant stability (ISQ: 74.2 ± 1.8), and no complications. Group A achieved moderate bone gain (2.3 ± 0.4 mm) and good ISQ values (71.5 ± 2.3), with favorable soft tissue healing. In contrast, Group C had the lowest bone gain (2.1 ± 0.5 mm), reduced ISQ values (68.9 ± 2.9), and the highest incidence of complications, including dehiscence and minor infections. Conclusions: These results suggest that PRF enhances both hard and soft tissue regeneration, particularly when used with grafts and membranes. PRF may reduce healing time and postoperative discomfort, improving the overall success of regenerative implant procedures. Full article

Background/Objectives: The mandibular lingula (ML) is a small bony projection on the medial surface of the ramus and serves as the first reference point identified during sagittal split ramus osteotomy (SSRO) or inferior alveolar nerve block (IANB). Anatomical variations in the mandibular ramus have been shown to exist across different populations. Understanding these population-specific differences enhances both clinical safety and diagnostic precision. However, there is a paucity of anthropological data amongst the Mongoloid population, especially in Southeast Asia. Hence, this study aimed to investigate the (i) distance of the lingula to different mandibular anatomical landmarks and its localization, (ii) lingula shape, and (iii) differences between gender and the sides of the mandible amongst the local ethnic groups. Methods: This retrospective cross-sectional study consisted of 206 cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) images of 77 males and 129 females (mean age 33), with a total of 412 hemimandibles. Measurements were performed on three-dimensionally reconstructed CBCT images. Results: The most common shape was the truncated type. The distance of the lingula to the anterior (LiA), posterior (LiP), superior (LiS), and inferior (LiI) borders of mandible were 17.84 (2.25) mm, 14.46 (3.44) mm, 17.73 (3.00) mm, and 27.05 (4.40) mm, respectively. No significant difference exists between the sides of the mandible. Sexual dimorphism existed for all lingula measurements except LiA. Indians have smaller rami with more anteriorly and inferiorly placed ML than Malay and Chinese. The majority of ML was located 8.55 mm above the occlusal plane. Conclusions: This study provides information on the ML and its surrounding ramus structure in the local population. Such variations must be accounted for in SSRO and IANB. Full article

Background/Aim: Third molar impaction with the consequent root resorption of second molars often creates complexities in treatment planning and execution. In the past, the root canal treatment (RCT) of second molars was required in these cases to avoid pulp necrosis and infection. The aim of this paper is to report a surgical/retrograde approach for the maintenance of pulp vitality, proposed as retrograde vital pulp treatment (rVPT), in cases of asymptomatic or reversibly affected teeth with root resorptions caused by impacted adjacent teeth. Methods: A case report on the rVPT of two upper second molars with root resorption due to third molar impaction is presented. The chief complaint of the patient was a slight pain during bite involving the upper second molars. Heat and cold sensitivity tests were performed, suggesting a healthy pulp status. A cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) scan was performed to aid the diagnosis and treatment planning, showing bilateral upper third molar impaction and both distal roots of the upper second molars affected by external root resorption (ERR). In both cases, the third molar was surgically extracted, the surface of the root with ERR was smoothened and rVPT was carried out by performing a 3 mm retrograde preparation of the root canal and its retrograde sealing using a hydraulic calcium silicate-based cement (hCSCs). Results: Heat and cold sensitivity tests were performed 1 month, 3 months, 6 months and 1 year after the treatment. The patient reported no pain, and the pulp sensitivity was maintained in all follow-up periods. A CBCT scan was performed 24 months after the treatment, reporting a complete perirradicular endogenous bone apposition. Conclusions: Based on the successful clinical and radiographic outcomes observed in the present case after two years of follow-up, rVPT is proposed for the maintenance of pulp vitality in cases of asymptomatic or reversibly affected teeth with ERR caused by impacted adjacent teeth. Full article