Search Results (192)

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

Perineuriomas are a rare form of peripheral nerve sheath tumors, with occurrences in the oral cavity being exceptionally uncommon. This scarcity underscores the clinical significance of each documented case, as it facilitates enhanced diagnostic precision among oral health professionals. We hereby present a case involving a 68-year-old female patient with an extraneural perineurioma (EPN) located on the mandibular region. A laser-assisted excisional biopsy was performed, and the diagnosis of EPN was confirmed through histopathological examination complemented by immunohistochemical analysis. The lesion was surgically excised, and no recurrence was observed during a one-year follow-up period. Accurate recognition of EPNs in the oral cavity is crucial to prevent unnecessary aggressive surgical interventions. Misdiagnoses may occur in cases of fibromas, neurofibromas, schwannomas, ossifying fibromas, or low-grade malignancies, which can potentially result in overtreatment that may compromise both function and aesthetics. Given the rarity of oral EPN, precise diagnosis and appropriate management are essential to avoid unwarranted invasive procedures and to mitigate potential medico-legal implications originating from misdiagnosis or suboptimal treatment. Ensuring comprehensive informed consent and meticulous documentation is also vital in minimizing medico-legal risks. Full article

Sunscreen protects skin from harmful Ultra Violet (UV) rays, preventing skin diseases like cancer and premature aging. This review explores the role of nanotechnology in enhancing sunscreen formulations by incorporating green and sustainable ingredients. Nanoparticles such as titanium dioxide and zinc oxide effectively reflect UV rays, improving protection while minimizing white residue, thereby enhancing aesthetics, stability, and efficacy. Recent advancements in formulation include lipid-based and polymer-based nanosystems that improve the delivery of active ingredients, offering multifunctional benefits. Additionally, modern sunscreens integrate anti-aging and antioxidant properties, reflecting the trend toward hybrid formulations with multiple skin benefits. The review also examines recent patents, highlighting innovations in nanotechnology-driven sunscreen formulations and delivery systems. Safety and regulatory concerns are critically analyzed, focusing on public perception of nanoparticles and their environmental impact. Issues such as manufacturing challenges and consumer hesitancy toward nano-scaled formulations due to safety considerations are also discussed. While nanotechnology presents significant potential in advancing sun protection, the review underscores the importance of balancing innovation with safety and sustainability. Ultimately, it serves as a guide for future research directions in nano-based sunscreens, advocating for responsible and informed development in the field. Full article

With their rich historical, artistic, and scientific value, bronze artefacts form a significant part of our cultural heritage. These items, often found in museums around the world, offer a glimpse into past civilizations and their technological advancements. However, due to their prolonged burial and subsequent exposure to varying environmental conditions, these artefacts are prone to corrosion, necessitating meticulous preservation efforts. This review discusses the cultural significance and preservation challenges of bronze artefacts, which are emblematic of human civilization’s progression. This text highlights the historical and artistic value of ancient bronze artefacts, especially those from China, underscoring their intricate casting techniques and aesthetic richness. Despite their cultural importance, these bronze artefacts confront severe preservation issues, particularly the pervasive threat of corrosion, commonly referred to as “bronze disease”. This text also reviews the complex interplay between alloy composition, microstructure, and environmental factors that influence corrosion mechanisms. It requires an enhanced understanding of these factors to develop effective preservation strategies. This paper also emphasizes the need for innovative, eco-friendly technologies to prevent further degradation while maintaining the integrity of these precious artefacts. The applications of corrosion inhibitions, organic/inorganic coatings, as well as the newly developed strategies like the photo-induced passivation technique, 3D scanning and 3D printing techniques, and holographic projection/real and virtual technique for the direct or indirect protection and cultural transmission of the bronze artefacts were also introduced. This review concludes by underscoring the urgency of these research and development efforts to safeguard our cultural heritage for future generations. Full article

Burn injuries remain a complex clinical challenge, particularly in reconstructive settings where donor sites are limited. Integra^® Dermal Regeneration Template (IDRT), a bilayer dermal substitute, facilitates neodermis formation and supports functional and aesthetic recovery following burn trauma. This narrative review and expert opinion synthesizes current literature and clinical experience on the application of IDRT in post-burn reconstruction. It discusses the biological mechanism of dermal regeneration, surgical protocols including wound bed preparation and grafting, and considerations for anatomical regions such as the face, torso, and limbs. The review emphasizes key factors influencing successful outcomes, including patient selection, timing, and multidisciplinary coordination. Potential complications, such as infection, hematoma, and poor graft adherence, are addressed along with prevention and management strategies. Special considerations for pediatric and elderly populations are also highlighted. Through evidence-based insights and illustrative case examples, this review aims to inform surgical decision-making and promote best practices in reconstructive burn care using IDRT. Full article

Background: In recent years, botulinum toxin (BoNT) has been increasingly employed not only as a corrective aesthetic intervention but also as a proactive strategy to delay the visible signs of facial aging. This systematic review aims to evaluate the scientific evidence supporting the preventive role of BoNT in facial aging, focusing on its long-term effects, mechanisms of action, and clinical outcomes when used in younger, pre-symptomatic populations. Methods: A systematic literature search was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases. Inclusion criteria encompassed clinical trials and observational studies addressing the use of BoNT for proactive aesthetic strategies. Results: Evidence suggests that early BoNT application may reduce muscle hyperactivity, delay the formation of dynamic wrinkles, and minimize the development of static lines over time. Histological studies indicate a potential remodeling effect on dermal collagen. However, data remain heterogeneous, and long-term safety and efficacy outcomes are not yet fully established. Conclusion: Preventive BoNT injections represent a promising tool in the proactive management of facial aging. Further longitudinal, high-quality studies are needed to substantiate its role within evidence-based aesthetic protocols. Full article

The recent surge in the popularity of brachycephalic dog breeds has raised concerns about their predisposition to serious health issues linked to breed-specific morphological traits. This study examined the demographic characteristics, motivations, and awareness of owners regarding welfare issues in four brachycephalic breeds (French Bulldogs, Bulldogs, Pugs, Boston Terriers). Methods: A total of 497 owners of brachycephalic dogs examined over six years at an Italian university veterinary hospital were considered; a subset of 75 owners completed a structured questionnaire. Based on responses to a key multiple-choice question about the main reason for breed choice, owners were classified into three groups: trend-driven (aesthetics/fashion), value-oriented (intelligence/behavior), and indeterminate. Results: Gender distribution did not differ significantly compared to the overall population, but brachycephalic owners were significantly younger (p < 0.001). Value-oriented owners were significantly more likely (p < 0.01) to consult a veterinarian before acquisition and showed better understanding of typical respiratory issues, which did not affect their purchasing decision. Trend-driven owners were more influenced by public figures (p < 0.05) and less engaged in preventive care. Conclusion: Our findings highlight the need for pre-acquisition veterinary counseling. Veterinarians can also assist breeders by promoting awareness of the ethical risks of selecting extreme traits in dogs. Full article

Minimally invasive cosmetic procedures, such as dermal fillers, botulinum toxin injections, autologous fat grafting, intense pulsed light (IPL) treatments, and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatments, are increasingly popular worldwide due to their convenience and aesthetic benefits. While generally considered safe, these procedures can result in rare but serious ophthalmological complications. The most catastrophic adverse events include central retinal artery occlusion and ischemic optic neuropathy, which may lead to irreversible vision loss. Other complications include diplopia, ptosis, dry eye, and orbital cellulitis, with varying degrees of severity and reversibility. Awareness of potential ocular risks, appropriate patient selection, and adherence to safe injection techniques are crucial for preventing complications. This narrative review summarizes the incidence, mechanisms, clinical features, risk factors, diagnostic approaches, and management strategies of ocular complications associated with aesthetic medical procedures. A narrative literature review was conducted, emphasizing data from clinical studies, case series, and expert consensus published between 2015 and 2025. Special attention is given to anatomical danger zones, the pathophysiological pathways of filler embolization, and the roles of hyaluronidase and hyperbaric oxygen therapy in acute management. Although many complications are self-limited or reversible, prompt recognition and intervention are critical to prevent permanent sequelae. The increasing prevalence of these procedures demands enhanced education, informed consent, and interdisciplinary collaboration between aesthetic providers and ophthalmologists. Full article

Introduction: Dental caries and molar–incisor hypomineralisation (MIH) are prevalent conditions affecting children’s oral health, with functional, aesthetic, and psychosocial implications. In Spain, previous studies have highlighted geographic and sociodemographic disparities in their distribution, particularly among rural and migrant populations. Objective: To characterise oral health status, in terms of caries and MIH, among 6–7-year-old children from the towns of Palos de la Frontera, Mazagón, and San Bartolomé. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 229 children recruited from public primary schools. Sociodemographic, anthropometric, and behavioural data were collected through clinical examination and interview. Statistical analysis included univariate and multivariate logistic regression. The study protocol was approved by the Ethics Committee of Huelva. Results: The prevalence of caries (DMFT ≥ 1) was 53.3%, with mean DMFT and dft indices of 1.78 and 0.31, respectively. MIH affected 32.8% of the cohort, with a predominance in the first permanent molars (teeth 36 and 26). Multivariate analysis identified independent predictors of caries: African (OR = 7.47; 95% CI: 2.84–23.8) and European (OR = 4.56; 95% CI: 1.26–22.3) parental origin, poor oral hygiene (OR = 3.07; 95% CI: 1.60–6.03), and the presence of MIH (OR = 3.20; 95% CI: 1.64–6.42). The municipality of San Bartolomé was associated with a higher risk of MIH (OR = 2.90; 95% CI: 1.21–7.45). Conclusions: The high prevalence of caries and MIH in the Condado-Campiña district, exceeding national averages, reflects oral health inequities linked to social determinants (migrant origin, locality) and clinical factors (MIH, oral hygiene). Targeted preventive interventions are urgently needed in high-risk populations, including culturally tailored education and policies ensuring equitable access to dental care services. Full article

Ensuring the safety and quality of perishable agrifood products throughout the supply chain is essential. Key parameters, such as temperature and humidity, must be consistently monitored to prevent spoilage, maintain nutritional value, and minimise health risks. Fluctuations in transportation conditions can compromise product integrity, leading to deterioration and an increased risk of foodborne illness. Monitoring agrifood supply chains is essential, from packaging to last-mile delivery. Distribution methods that rely on non-automated monitoring systems, such as manual temperature measurements, are error-prone due to the failure of manual treatments and increase the likelihood of product deterioration. Emerging sensor technologies and the rapid development of Information and Communication Technologies offer new possibilities for real-time tracking, enabling stakeholders to maintain optimal conditions and monitor aesthetic, physicochemical, and nutritional quality. This paper proposes a cost-effective temperature and humidity traceability system that utilises wireless sensor networks (WSN) and Internet of Things (IoΤ) services to monitor perishable products within the agrifood supply chain ecosystem. It also provides an overview of recent innovations in sensor technologies, along with food quality indicators relevant to real-time monitoring of food quality. The proposed research examines the available sensor technologies and methodologies that enable continuous monitoring of agrifood supply chains. Moreover, the paper presents a pilot full-scale project from both functional and technological perspectives. Full article

The crystallization of soluble salts is one of the most significant agents of deterioration affecting porous building materials in historical architecture. This process not only compromises the physical integrity of the materials but also results in considerable aesthetic, structural, and economic consequences. Soluble salts involved in these processes may originate from geogenic sources—including soil leachate, marine aerosols, and the natural weathering of parent rocks—or from anthropogenic factors such as air pollution, wastewater infiltration, and the use of incompatible restoration materials. This study examines the role of capillary rise as a primary mechanism responsible for the vertical migration of saline solutions from the soil profile into historic masonry structures, especially those constructed with calcareous stones. It describes how water retained or sustained within the soil matrix ascends via capillarity, carrying dissolved salts that eventually crystallize within the pore network of the stone. This phenomenon leads to a variety of damage types, ranging from superficial staining and efflorescence to more severe forms such as subflorescence, microfracturing, and progressive mass loss. By adopting a multidisciplinary approach that integrates concepts and methods from soil physics, hydrology, petrophysics, and conservation science, this paper examines the mechanisms that govern saline water movement, salt precipitation patterns, and their cumulative effects on stone durability. It highlights the influence of key variables such as soil texture and structure, matric potential, hydraulic conductivity, climatic conditions, and stone porosity on the severity and progression of deterioration. This paper also addresses regional considerations by focusing on the context of Spain, which holds one of the highest concentrations of World Heritage Sites globally and where many monuments are constructed from vulnerable calcareous materials such as fossiliferous calcarenites and marly limestones. Special attention is given to the types of salts most commonly encountered in Spanish soils—particularly chlorides and sulfates—and their thermodynamic behavior under fluctuating environmental conditions. Ultimately, this study underscores the pressing need for integrated, preventive conservation strategies. These include the implementation of drainage systems, capillary barriers, and the use of compatible materials in restoration, as well as the application of non-destructive diagnostic techniques such as electrical resistivity tomography and hyperspectral imaging. Understanding the interplay between soil moisture dynamics, salt crystallization, and material degradation is essential for safeguarding the cultural and structural value of historic buildings in the face of ongoing environmental challenges and climate variability. Full article

Background/Objectives: Autologous fat grafting (AFT) has become a widely used technique in breast reconstruction, offering natural aesthetics, tissue integration, and patient satisfaction. However, its clinical outcomes require comparison with implant-based reconstruction (IBR), the most common method in clinical practice. While AFT provides a more natural appearance and avoids foreign body-related complications, issues such as fat resorption, procedural variability, and oncological concerns necessitate further investigation. Additionally, artificial intelligence (AI) has been increasingly integrated into breast imaging and reconstructive planning, improving diagnostic accuracy, procedural optimization, and complication prevention. This study aims to compare AFT and IBR while exploring AI’s role in enhancing breast reconstruction outcomes. Methods: A comprehensive review of clinical studies was conducted to evaluate the advantages, limitations, and oncological implications of AFT versus IBR. AI-driven applications in breast imaging and reconstructive planning were examined for their potential in predicting fat graft retention and optimizing implant selection. Data from systematic reviews and meta-analyses were incorporated to refine reconstruction strategies. Results: AFT offers superior aesthetic outcomes with better tissue integration but presents variability in fat resorption. IBR remains the preferred approach due to its predictability but carries risks of implant-related complications. AI technologies contribute to improved reconstruction planning, enhancing surgical precision and long-term patient outcomes. Conclusions: Optimized patient selection and long-term follow-up are essential for improving breast reconstruction techniques. AI-driven approaches provide valuable tools for enhancing procedural predictability and personalized treatment strategies. Future research should focus on refining AI algorithms and establishing standardized protocols for reconstructive decision-making. Full article

Background: Early childhood dental decay remains a pervasive chronic condition, and environmental toxicants—particularly lead—may exacerbate its development. This systematic review was designed to synthesize evidence on how lead exposure correlates with both the occurrence of carious lesions and aesthetic alterations in children’s primary teeth. Methods: A comprehensive search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science through April 2025, selecting observational investigations that assessed the link between lead levels and primary-tooth decay in pediatric cohorts. Thirteen eligible studies, encompassing 44,846 participants aged 2–19 years, were included for qualitative synthesis. Aesthetics were screened using author-defined enamel-defect or discoloration endpoints; however, only three studies reported compatible metrics, precluding quantitative pooling. Heterogeneity in exposure matrices likewise ruled out meta-analysis. Results: Most studies reported a statistically significant association between higher lead burden and greater prevalence or severity of caries in primary teeth. Blood lead concentrations across studies ranged from means of 1.53 μg/dL to geometric means of 7.2 μg/dL. Notably, elevated lead was linked to increased decayed, missing, or filled surfaces—with an adjusted risk ratio of 1.14 (95% CI: 1.02–1.27) at levels below 5 μg/dL—and adjusted mean ratios of up to 2.14 for decayed or filled teeth when blood lead reached 5–10 μg/dL. Conclusions: Current evidence suggests that children’s exposure to lead may heighten the risk of caries and detract from the aesthetic quality of primary teeth. However, variability in study design, lead quantification methods, and confounder adjustment limit the consistency of findings. Mitigating lead exposure in early life could represent a valuable preventive strategy against dental decay in susceptible pediatric populations. Full article

Roses (Rosa spp.) are among the most economically and culturally significant flowering plants worldwide. However, rose cultivation faces a critical threat from rose rosette disease (RRD), which is caused by Emaravirus rosae (rose rosette virus, RRV), a negative-sense RNA virus transmitted by the eriophyid mite Phyllocoptes fructiphilus. Current RRD management strategies mainly depend on the complete removal (rogueing) of symptomatic plants, which are effective but adds high economic and aesthetic costs. During our field and laboratory observations from 2023 to 2024, we documented that RRV often remains localized to a single cane for extended periods of time (up to 80 days) in one variety before systemic spread to other canes of the same plant. This discovery supports a proposed “rescue hypothesis”, suggesting that early pruning of symptomatic canes may prevent full-plant infection and serve as a viable alternative to rogueing under specific conditions. While preliminary, our findings offer a potentially cost-effective, less destructive management strategy. However, further research is needed to validate this hypothesis and inform integrated disease management practices are established for effective control of RRD. Full article

OnabotulinumtoxinA (OnaBoNT-A) is approved for chronic migraine prevention and follows the PREEMPT protocol with injections in the glabellar and forehead regions. While aesthetic changes are considered a side effect, their effect on patient satisfaction has not been thoroughly assessed. This study evaluated patient satisfaction with facial aesthetic outcomes after repeated OnaBoNT-A treatment for chronic migraine. Conducted at specialist headache centers, it included adult patients with chronic migraine who had received at least three OnaBoNT-A cycles. Participants completed a structured questionnaire on demographics, migraine history, facial wrinkles and age perception, appearance satisfaction, psychological impact, treatment satisfaction, and adverse aesthetic events. A total of 124 patients (92.7% female; median age 42.5 years) participated. OnaBoNT-A reduced wrinkle severity (p < 0.0001). Most patients (74.2%) reported aesthetic improvement post-treatment. The majority of patients (76.7%) declared that treatment met or exceeded expectations. 32% reported looking younger post-treatment, with a median perceived age difference of 5 years. Adverse event frequency was similar to pivotal trial outcomes, mostly mild, with no treatment discontinuations. OnaBoNT-A for chronic migraine, following the PREEMPT protocol, provides significant therapeutic benefits and high patient satisfaction regarding aesthetic outcomes. Although aesthetic side effects were generally mild, they were not uncommon. Full article