The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of two different insertion speeds at 8 different insertion torque values ranging from 25-60 during implantation in a dense polyurethane D1 bone model on the placement status and removal torque of dental implants. In this study, 50 pcf single layer polyurethane plates were used. In the study, a total of 320 implant sockets were divided into 2 groups as Group 1 (30 rpm) and Group 2 (50 rpm) in terms of insertion speed. Group 1 and Group 2 were divided into 8 subgroups as 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55 and 60 torques. There were 20 implant sockets in each subgroup. During the implantations, implant placement status and removal torque values were assessed. There was a statistically significant difference between the 30 and 50 RPM groups in terms of overall implant placement status (p<0.01). It was found that the removal torque values at 50 RPM were statistically significantly higher than those at 30 RPM (p<0.01). This study showed that in dense D1 bone, the minimum parameters at which all implants could be placed at bone level were 50 torque at 30 rpm and 40 torque at 50 rpm.

As medical care aiming to maintain the quality of life for elderly patients is increases, implant treatment for elderly patients is increasing worldwide. Therefore, we aimed to investigate implant stability and the reliability of different measuring devices according to implant placement site and duration in patients aged over 65 years. The study evaluated 60 implants in 60 patients aged ≥ 65 years. The implant placement sites were divided into six evenly distributed sections (n=10) i.e., maxillary right- posterior, A; maxillary anterior, B; maxillary left-posterior, C; mandibular right-posterior, D; mandibular anterior, E; mandibular left-posterior, F. Participants visited the hospital seven times: preoperatively, 1V; implant surgery, 2V; stitch removal, 3V; 1-month follow-up, 4V; 2-months follow-up, 5V; before final-restoration delivery, 6V; and after final-restoration delivery, 7V. The implant stability was evaluated with the Osstell Mentor (ISQ), Periotest M (PTV), and Anycheck (IST). The mean values of ISQ, PTV, and IST were analyzed (α=.05). ISQ, PTV, and IST results of 5V and 6V were significantly higher than those of 2V (P<.05). The lowest ISQ results occurred in E location at 5V and 6V (P<.05). In all mandibular locations, IST results of 7V were significantly higher than those of 2V, 3V, 4V, and 5V (P<.05). ISQ results were negatively correlated with PTV and positively correlated with IST, and PTV was negatively correlated with IST. By considering various factors that affect implant stability, the appropriate implant load application time was determined. This could help increase the implant success rate in elderly patients. And as a diagnostic device for implant stability for evaluation of osseointegration in elderly patients, Anycheck was also able to prove its relative reliability compared to Osstell ISQ Mentor and Periotest M.

This study aimed to evaluate the impact of Candida albicans on subgingival biofilm formation on dental implant surfaces. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) were used to compare biofilm structure and microbial biomass in the presence and absence of the fungus after periods of 24, 48, and 72 h. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) was used to quantify the number of viable and total micro-organisms for each of the biofilm-forming strains. A general linear model was applied to compare CLSM and qPCR results between control and test conditions. The biofilm developed with C. albicans at 72 h had a higher bacterial biomass, with a significantly higher cell viability (p &lt; 0.05). After both 48 and 72 h of incubation, in the presence of C. albicans, there was a significant increase in counts of Fusobacterium nucleatum and Porphyromonas gingivalis and in the cell viability of Streptococcus oralis, Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, F. nucleatum, and P. gingivalis. Using a dynamic in vitro multispecies biofilm model, C. albicans exacerbated the development of the biofilm grown on dental implant surfaces, significantly increasing the number and cell viability of periodontal bacteria.

A healthy 47-year-old woman consulted the Oral Surgery and Implantology Unit of the University Hospitals of Geneva with a request to treat her painful tooth 11 and replace the missing tooth 21. The dental history revealed that the patient had lost teeth 21 and 22 due to advanced caries. On clinical examination, tooth 11 showed an ill-fitting prosthetic crown with overhanging margins, an increased localized probing depth of 8 mm in the disto-vestibular area and sensitivity to percussion. The edentulous site 21 showed horizontal bone atrophy. Radiological examination revealed a well-defined unilocular radiotransparent lesion surrounded by a thin radiolucent border, located at the apex of tooth 11 and measuring 10 x 8 mm. The treatment consisted of extraction of 11, enucleation of the apical lesion, insertion of implants at sites 11 and 21 with simultaneous bone augmentation in a single surgical procedure with aesthetic and functional results at 3-year follow-up without any complications. Our case highlights that immediate implant placement in case of cystic periapical lesion represents a good valid alternative to standard treatment.

Background: Fiber-reinforced composites (FRCs) have been proposed as an alternative to traditional metal alloys for the realization of frameworks in full-arch implant supported prostheses. The aim of the present in vitro study was to evaluate the deflection under load of seven prostheses endowed with frameworks made of different materials, including different types of fiber reinforced composites (FRCs). Methods: A master cast with four implant analogues in correspondence of the two lateral incisors and the two first molars was used to create full-arch fixed prostheses with the same shape and different materials. Prostheses were made in different materials (framework+veneering material): gold alloy+resin (Au+R), titanium+resin (Ti+R), FRC with multi-directional carbon fibers+resin (ICFRC+R), FRC with unidirectional carbon fibers+composite (UCFRC+C), FRC with glass fibers+resin (GFRC+R), FRC with glass fibers+composite (GFRC+C), resin (R, full-acrylic prosthesis). Flexural tests were conducted using Zwick/Roell Z 0.5 machine and the deflection of the lower surface of the prosthesis was measured in order to obtain load/deflection graphs. Results: Greater rigidity and less deflection were recorded for UCFRC+C, GFRC+C, followed by Ti+R, and Au+R. The greatest deformations were observed for resin alone, ICFRC+R and GFRC+R. The results were slightly different in the incisal region probably due to the greater amount of veneering material in this area. Conclusions: When used to realize full-arch frameworks, Au and Ti allow a predictable mechanical behavior with gradual deformations with increasing load. UCFRC also demonstrated good outcomes and less deflection than ICFRCs when loaded. The GFRC full-arch framework may be a valid alternative, however showed greater deflections. Further studies are needed in order to evaluated how different prosthesis design and material thickness might affect the outcomes.

Background: Patients with thromboembolic disease, prosthetic valves, or coagulation issues are commonly prescribed anticoagulants and antiplatelets. Although common professional oral hygiene might not represent a health concern for these patients, anticoagulant and antiplatelet medication might constitute a challenge for dentists and dental hygienists since possible prolonged bleeding might interfere with dental procedures. The aim of the present study was to investigate the bleeding time of different anticoagulants and antiplatelets during a professional hygiene session adapting the Ivy test to the oral environment; Methods: 93 consecutive patients undergoing professional oral hygiene were recruited. Debridement during oral hygiene was performed using ultrasonic mechanical instrumentation, and bleeding sites were assessed and treated with gentle pressure using sterile gauzes. The time for bleeding cessation was recorded. Patients were categorized into six groups based on their drug intake, Control: no anticoagulants or antiplatelets DTI: direct thrombin inhibitors (dabigatran) AntiXa: directa factor Xa inhibitors (endoxaban, apixaban, rivaroxaban) VKA: vitamin K antagonists (warfarin, acenocoumarol) SAPT: single anti-platelet therapy (acetylsalicylic acid or clopidogrel) DAPT: dual anti-platelet therapy (acetylsalicylic acid and clopidogrel). Bleeding time was measured in seconds and mean values were assessed among the different groups. Differences between groups were investigated with Kruskal-Wallis test followed by Dunn’s post-hoc correction for multiple comparisons or two-way ANOVA followed by Dunnett post-hoc; Results: Control patients presented the lowest bleeding time 50 sec, followed by AntiXa (98), SAPT (105), DTI (120), DAPT (190) and VKA (203). A statistically significant difference was present among control and DTI (p=0.004), VKA (p&lt;0.001), DAPT (p&lt;0.001). Conclusions: Based on the present outcomes, an increased risk of prolonged bleeding emerged in patients taking VKA and DAPT. However, bleeding did not interfere with the oral hygiene ses-sion The optimal period for dental treatment of these patients should be 2-3 hours before the next dose, without the need to temporarily suspend the medication.

The clinical requirement for a good esthetic result for immediate implant placement is the absence of dehiscence in the anterior facial alveolar bone. In the presence of a dehiscence, it is recommend-ed to use a connective tissue graft in addition to immediate implant placement or to change to ear-ly implant placement. However, the literature focusing on dehiscence is scarce, and the influence of different placement times and combined use of connective tissue graft on postoperative esthetics in cases with dehiscence is unclear. Therefore, we quantitatively evaluated the pre-extraction de-hiscence morphology and postoperative changes in the facial tissue of implants in three groups: immediate implant placement (Group I), immediate implant placement with connective tissue graft (Group IC), and early implant placement (Group E). Fifty-two implants were obtained (20 in Group I, 16 in Group IC, and 16 in Group E). A wider dehiscence increases the risk of soft tissue regression, which was one reason for choosing early implant placement. A combination of imme-diate implant placement and connective tissue graft, or early implant placement, tended to result in less soft tissue regression due to the thicker postoperative facial soft tissue volume.

Aseptic implant loosening after total joint replacement is partially influenced by material-specific factors when cobalt-chromium alloys are used, including osteolysis induced by wear- and corrosion products, and stress shielding. Here, we aim to characterize a hybrid material consisting of alumina-toughened zirconia ceramics (ATZ) and additively manufactured Ti-35Nb-6Ta (TiNbTa), joined by a glass solder. The structure of the joint, static and fatigue shear strength, the influence of accelerated aging, and the cytotoxicity using an elution assay with human osteoblasts is characterized. Furthermore, the biomechanical properties of functional demonstrators of a femoral component for total knee replacements are evaluated. TiNbTa-ATZ specimens showed a homogenous joint with statistical distributed micro-pores and a slight accumulation of Al-rich compounds at the glass solder-TiNbTa interface. The static shear strength was 26.4 ± 4.2 MPa (Ti-ATZ reference: 38.2 ± 14.4 MPa, p = 0.117), all specimens survived 107 cycles of shear loading to 10 MPa, and aging did not reduce the strength. TiNbTa-ATZ did not impair the proliferation and metabolic activity of human osteoblasts. Functional demonstrators of TiNbTa-ATZ provided a maximum bearable extension-flexion moment of 40.7 ± 2.2 Nm. Biomechanical and biological properties of TiNbTa-ATZ demonstrate potential application for endoprosthetic implants.

The human mandible's cancellous bone, which is characterized by its unique porosity and directional sensitivity to external forces, is crucial for sustaining biting stress. Traditional CAD models fail to fully represent bone's anisotropic structure and thus depend on simple isotropic assumptions. For our research, we use the latest versions of nTopology and Creo Parametric software to make biomimetic Voronoi lattice models that accurately reflect the complex geometry and mechanical properties of trabecular bone. The porosity of human cancellous bone is accurately modeled in this work using biomimetic Voronoi lattice models. The porosities range from 70% to 95%, which can be achieved by changing the pore sizes to 1.0 mm, 1.5 mm, 2.0 mm, and 2.5 mm. Finite element analysis (FEA) was used to examine the displacements, stresses, and strains acting on dental implants with a buttress thread, abutment, retaining screw, and biting load surface. The results show that the Voronoi model accurately depicts the complex anatomy of the trabecular bone in the human jaw, compared to standard solid block models. The ideal pore size for biomimetic Voronoi lattice trabecular bone models is 2 mm, taking into account both the von Mises stress distribution over the dental implant, screw retention, cortical bone, cancellous bone, and micromotions. This pore size displayed balanced performance by successfully matching natural bone's mechanical characteristics. Advanced finite element analysis (FEA) improves biomechanical understanding of how bones and implants interact by creating more accurate models of biological problems and dynamic loading situations. This makes biomechanical engineering better.

This study examines the effect of a hyaluronic acid (HyAc) containing tricalcium phosphate putty scaffold material (TCP-P) and of a particulate tricalcium phosphate (TCP-G) graft on bone formation, volume stability and osteogenic marker expression in biopsies sampled 6 months after bilateral sinus floor augmentation (SFA) in 7 patients applying a split-mouth design. Biopsies were processed for immunohistochemical analysis of resin embedded sections. Sections were stained for collagen type I (Col I), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), osteocalcin (OC) and bone sialoprotein (BSP). Furthermore, the bone area and particle area fraction were determined histomorphometrically. Cone-beam CT data recorded after SFA and 6 month later were used for calculating the graft volume at these two time points. TCP-P displayed more advantageous surgical handling properties and a significantly greater bone area fraction and smaller particle area fraction. This was accompanied by significantly greater expression of Col I and BSP and in osteoblasts and osteoid and a less pronounced reduction in grafting volume with TCP-P. SFA using both types of materials resulted in formation of sufficient bone volume for facilitating stable dental implant placement with all dental implants having been in function without any complications for 6 years. Since TCP-P displayed superior surgical handling properties and greater bone formation than TCP-G, without the Hyac hydrogel matrix having any adverse effect on bone formation or graft volume stability, TCP-P can be regarded as excellent grafting material for SFA in a clinical setting.

This paper presents experimental identification and vibration suppression of a flexible manipulator with non-collocated piezoelectric actuators and strain sensors using optimal multi-poles placement control. To precisely identify the system model, a reduced order transfer function with relocated zeros is proposed, and a first-order inertia element is added to the model to compensate the non-collocation. Comparisons show the identified model match closely with the experimental results both in the time and frequency domains, and a fit of 97.2% is achieved. Based on the identified model, a full-state multi-poles placement controller is designed, and the optimal locations of the closed loop poles are determined. The feasibility of the proposed controller is validated by simulations. Moreover, the controller is tested for different locations of the closed loop poles, and an excellent performance of the optimal locations of the closed loop poles is shown. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed controller is demonstrated by experiments. Results show that the vibrations of the expected modes are significantly diminished. Besides, vibrations of the higher modes are also slightly suppressed. Accordingly, multi-mode vibrations of the manipulator are well attenuated, and the tip displacement converges quickly with the proposed method.

Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) stands as a pivotal technological stride toward a sustainable future, with the practice of injecting supercritical CO2 into subsurface formations having already been an established practice for enhanced oil recovery operations. The overarching objective of CCS is to protract the operational viability and sustainability of platforms and oilfields, thereby facilitating a seamless transition towards sustainable practices. This study introduces a comprehensive framework for optimizing well placements in CCS operations, employing a derivative-free method known as Bayesian optimization. The development plan is tailored for scenarios featuring aquifers devoid of flow boundaries, incorporating production wells tasked with controlling pressure buildup and injection wells dedicated to CO2 sequestration. Notably, the wells operate under group control, signifying predefined injection and production targets and constraints that must be adhered to throughout the project’s lifespan. As a result, the objective function remains invariant under specific permutations of the well locations. Our investigation delves into the efficacy of Bayesian optimization under the introduced permutation invariance. The results reveal that it demonstrates critical efficiency in handling the optimization task extremely fast. In essence, this study advocates for the efficacy of Bayesian optimization in the context of optimizing well placements for CCS operations, emphasizing its potential as a preferred methodology for enhancing sustainability in the energy sector.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the use of a flexible synthetic polymer bone graft to provide implant stability in the absence of implant stability during implant placement in a dense cortical bone model. Sockets were prepared on polyurethane blocks according to the standard implant socket drilling protocol in the control group, both oversizing and deepening in group 2, and oversizing only in group 3. In groups 2 and 3, flexible synthetic polymer bone grafts were placed in the sockets prior to implant placement. The implants were placed at bone level in all groups. The highest torque value obtained was recorded as the insertion torque. 75 implant sites in 3 groups were included in the study. The torque values of the implants in the control group were significantly higher than those of the implants with the oversized and deepened sockets and the oversized-only sockets (p&lt;0.05; p&lt;0.01).The torque values of the implants with the oversized and deepened sockets were significantly higher than those of the implants with the oversized-only sockets (p&lt;0.01). In this study, flexible synthetic polymer bone graft was shown to be effective in achieving implant stability in the management of implants with loss of primary stability.

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) has grown exponentially within the cardiology and cardiac surgical spheres. It has now become a routine approach for treating aortic stenosis. Several uncertainties have been raised about TAVI in comparison to conventional surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR). The primary concerns are with regards to the longevity of the valves. Several factors have been identified that may predict poor outcomes following TAVI. These include the lesser-used finite element analysis (FEA) to quantify the properties of calcifications that affect TAVI valves. This can also be used in conjunction with other integrated software to ascertain the functionality of these valves. Other imaging modalities are now widely available such as Multi-detector row computed tomography(MDCT) which can accurately size the aortic valve annulus.. This may help reduce the incidence of paravalvular leaks and regurgitation which may necessitate further intervention. Structural valve degeneration (SVD) remains a key factor with varying results from current studies. The true incidence of SVD in TAVI compared to SAVR remains unclear with the lack of long term data. It is now widely accepted that both are part of the armamentarium and are not mutually exclusive. Decision-making for the appropriate intervention should be made via shared decision-making involving the heart team.

Although the connection of implant abutments to implant analogs and implant bodies has been evaluated separately, comparative evaluation of connections to implant analogs and implant bodies has not been evaluated. The objective of this study was to identify whether torque applied during laboratory manufacturing and during restoration cementation affects the compatibility between the implant body-abutment and the implant analog-abutment, as well as to spot any structural differences. Three different implant system with internal conical connection (Bioinfinity, Dant, and Dentist) were used. For each group, straight abutments (n=20) were tightened to implant analogs (n=10) and implant bodies (n=10) with hand tightening and using torque wrench device. The fitting of componenets were evaluated for each group using linear and volumetric micro-CT analysis. For linear analysis, when the mean differences (difference between measurements of the linear distance of abutments during hand tightening and applying torque) values between implant analog and implant body were compared within groups, There was no statistically significant difference observed in all groups (p&gt; 0.05). Throughout the fabrication and clinical phases, it is recommended to tighten the abutments on the analogs with a torque wrench instrument to minimize the risk of prosthetic incompatibility.

Ensuring fire safety is an important condition for the successful operation of industrial enterprises. It is necessary to detect the threat of fire before ignition. An indicator of danger is the appearance of gas, which occurs as a result of unauthorized heating of equipment. Gas sensors make it possible to detect the appearance of gases characteristic of the decomposition of materials at the stage of smouldering and pyrolysis, which cause a change in the composition of the atmosphere. This paper presents a mathematical method for the rational placement of gas analyzers for premises of potentially hazardous industries. It is the rational placement of gas sensors, which ensures safety, taking into account economic feasibility that determines the effectiveness of their use. For the first time, the analysis of gas accumulation during the movement of the flow from the source to the ceil-ing, then propagation to the location of the sensors, is used for the first time to select the placement of gas sensors. Depending on the permissible values of the gas volume, the placement and number of gas sensors are selected. The calculation of the conditions for the rational placement of gas sen-sors for the most common indicators, such as carbon monoxide and hydrogen at different sizes and heights of rooms, is carried out. The method of calculating the location of gas analyzers makes it possible to diagnose and predict fire hazard at technological facilities on the basis of gas control, and compare the obtained values with the maximum permissible values. This method provides cal-culation of the coordinates of the gas source from the coordinates of the triggered sensors. Knowing the coordinates of all sensors, the coordinates of the sensors that gave the alarm, and the formula for determining the volume of the gas cloud under these sensors, it is possible to assess the localization of the source of dangerous gas in the protected room. This increases the efficiency of the fire safety system. The method makes it possible to control the layout of sensors depending on the volume of protected premises, types of production, the creation of new sensors, changes in the composition of hazardous gas in different technological conditions.

Background: Cochlear implantation is an efficient treatment for postlingually deafened adults who do not benefit sufficiently from acoustic amplification. Implantation is indicated when it can be foreseen that speech recognition with a cochlear implant (CI) is superior to that with a hearing aid. Especially for subjects with residual speech recognition it is desirable to predict CI outcome on the basis of preoperative audiological tests. Purpose: The purpose of the study was to extend and to refine a previously developed model for CI outcome prediction for subjects with preoperative word recognition to include subjects with no residual hearing by incorporat-ing additional results of routine examinations. Results: By introducing the duration of unaided hearing loss (DuHL) the median absolute error (MAE) of the prediction was reduced. While for subjects with preoperative speech recognition the model modification did not change the MAE, for subjects with no residual speech recognition before surgery, the MAE decreased from 23.7% with the previous model to 17.2% with the extended model. Conclusions: Prediction of word recognition with CI is possible within clinically relevant limits. Outcome prediction is particu-larly important for preoperative counselling and in CI aftercare, to support systematic monitor-ing of CI fitting.

A framework for optimal sensor placement (OSP) for virtual sensing using the modal expansion technique and taking into account uncertainties is presented based on information and utility theory. The OSP maximizes a utility function that quantifies the expected information gained from the data for reducing the uncertainty of quantities of interest (QoI) predicted at the virtual sensing locations. The utility function is extended to make the OSP design robust to uncertainties in structural model and modelling error parameters, resulting in a multidimensional integral of the expected information gain over all possible values of the uncertain parameters and weighted by their assigned probability distributions. Approximate methods are used to compute the multidimensional integral and solve the optimization problem that arises. The Gaussian nature of the response QoI is exploited to derive useful and informative analytical expressions for the utility function. A thorough study of the effect of model, prediction and measurement errors and their uncertainties, as well as the prior uncertainties in the modal coordinates on the selection of the optimal sensor configuration is presented, highlighting the importance of accounting for robustness to errors and other uncertainties.

Modal testing is a common step in aerostructure design, serving to validate the predicted natural frequencies and mode shapes obtained through computational methods. The strategic placement of sensors during testing is crucial to accurately measuring the intended natural frequencies. However, conventional methodologies for sensor placement are often time-consuming and involve iterative processes. This study explores the potential of machine learning techniques to enhance sensor selection methodologies. Three machine learning-based approaches are introduced and assessed, comparing their efficiency with established techniques. The evaluation of these methodologies is conducted using a numerical model of a beam to simulate real-world scenarios. The results offer insights into the efficacy of machine learning in optimizing sensor placement, presenting an innovative perspective on enhancing the efficiency and precision of modal testing procedures in aerostructure design.

This study aims to develop novel automated computer vision algorithms and systems for component replacement inspection for Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs). The proposed algorithms are able to identify locations as well as sizes of different components. They are object detection algorithms based on keypoints of the target components. The algorithms can be implemented as neural networks consisting of two portions: frontend networks and backend networks. The frontend networks are used for the feature extractions of input images. The backend networks are adopted for producing component inspection results. Each component class can has its own frontend and backend networks. In this way, the neural model for the component class can be effectively reused for different PCBs. To reduce the computation time for the inference of the networks, different component classes can share the same frontend networks. A two-stage training process is proposed for effectively exploring features of different components for accurate component inspection. The proposed algorithm has the advantages of the simplicity for training data collection, high accuracy for defect detection, and high reusability and flexibility for online inspection. The algorithm is an effective alternative for the automated inspection in smart factory with growing demand for product quality and diversification.

Background and Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the histological and biochemical ef-fects of capsaicin on implant osseointegration and oxidative stress. Materials and Methods: Male Wistar albino rats weighing between 250 and 300 grams were used in this study. Twenty-four rats were randomly divided into three equal groups: implant + control (n= 8), implant + capsai-cin-1 (n= 8), and implant + capsaicin-2 (n= 8). 2.5 mm diameter and 4 mm length titanium im-plants were surgically integrated into the corticocancellous bone parts of the femurs. In the treatment groups, rats were injected intraperitoneally with 25 mg/kg (implant + capsaicin-1) and 50 mg/kg (implant + capsaicin-2) of capsaicin. No additional applications were made in the con-trol group. Three rats in totally were died during and after the experiment, as a result of the an-alyzes performed on 21 animals. Results: The highest total antioxidant status value was found in capsaicin dose 2, according to the analysis. The control group had the highest total oxidant status and oxidative stress index values, while group 2 of capsaicin had the lowest. After analysis, we found that there was no observed positive effect on osteointegration in this study (p> 0.05), alt-hough the bone implant connection was higher in the groups treated with capsaicin. Conclusi-ons: A positive effect on osteointegration was not observed in this study. This may be due to os-teaclast activation. However it was found that it has a positive effect on oxidative stress. Osteo-clast activation may be the cause of this phenomenon. Capsaicin was found to have a positive effect on oxidative stress (p

Porous structured metallic implants are preferable as bone graft substitutes due to their faster tissue integration mediated by bone in-growth and vascularization. The porous scaffolds/ implants should also mimic the graded structure of natural bone to ensure a match of mechanical properties. This article presents a method to design graded porous structured acetabular implant and identifies the suitable parameters for manufacturing the model through additive manufacturing. The design method is based on slice-wise modification to ensure continuity of gradation. Modification of the slices was achieved through the binary image processing route. A geodesic dome type design was adopted for developing the acetabular cup model from the graded porous structure. The model had a solid shell with the target porosity and pore size gradually changing from 65% and 950 µm, respectively, in the inner side to 75% and 650 µm, respectively, towards the periphery. The required dimensions of the unit structures, and the combinations of pore structure and strut diameter to obtain the target porosity and pore size were determined analytically. Suitable process parameters were identified to manufacture the model by Direct Metal Laser Sintering (DMLS) using Ti6Al4V powder after carrying out a detailed experimental study to minimize the variation of surface roughness and warping over different build angles of the strut structures. A dual contour scanning was implemented to simplify the scan strategy. The minimum diameter of struts that could be manufactured using the selected scanning strategy and scanning parameters was found to be 375 µm. Finally, the model was built and from the micro-CT data, the porosities and pore sizes were found to be closely conforming to the designed values. The stiffness of the structures, as found from compression testing, was also found to be well matching with that of human trabecular bone. Further, the structure exhibited compliant bending-dominated behavior under compressive loading.

Background: Actually, resonance frequency analysis (RFA) is the most extended method for measuring implant stability. The implant stability quotient (ISQ) is the measure obtained by the different RFA devices, however, inter- and intra- rater reliability and validity of some devices remains unknown. Methods: Thirty implants were placed in 3 different pig mandibles. ISQ was measured axial and parallel with Osstell® Beacon, Penguin® and MegaISQ® by 2 different operators and one operator performed a test-retest. Intraclass correlation coefficient was calculated to assess the intra- and inter-rater reliability. Pearson correlation coefficient was used to assess the validity. Results: The higher inter- and intra- rater reliability was obtained by Penguin® when measuring axial. The highest ISQ values were obtained using Penguin® in an axial measurement; the lowest, using the MegaISQ® in an axial measurement. The highest correlation values with the other devices were obtained by MegaISQ® measuring axially. Conclusion: Penguin® had a good reliability for measuring ISQ both inter- and intra- rater. Osstell® had good validity for measuring ISQ both axial and parallel and MegaISQ® had the best validity for measuring ISQ axial.

The aim of the present study was to monitor implant stability after sinus floor elevation with two biomaterials during the first 6 months of healing by a resonance frequency analysis (RFA), and how physico-chemical properties affect the implant stability quotient (ISQ) at the placement and healing sites. Bilateral maxillary sinus augmentation was performed in 10 patients in a split-mouth design using a bobine HA (BBM) as a control and porcine HA (PBM). Six months after sinus lifting, 60 implants were placed in the posterior maxilla. The ISQ was recorded on the day of surgery from RFA at T1 (baseline), T2 (3 months), and T3 (6 months). Statistically significant differences were found in the ISQ values during the evaluation period. The ISQ (baseline) was 63.8±2.97 for BBM and 62.6±2.11 for PBM. The ISQ (T2) was ~ 73.5±4.21 and 67±4.99, respectively. The ISQ (T3) was ~ 74.65±2.93 and 72.9±2.63, respectively. All the used HAs provide osseointegration and statistical increases in the ISQ at baseline, T2 and T3 (follow-up), respectively. The BBM, sintered at high temperature with high crystallinity and low porosity, presented higher stability, which demonstrates that variations in the physico-chemical properties of a bone substitute material clearly influence implant stability.

Visual Sensor Networks (VSNs) have been the focus of numerous studies, emphasizing the quality of the information they generate. The primary goal of these networks is to capture data from an area, extract the pertinent information from the visual scene, and facilitate communication. However, the presence of objects in the study area can impacted the network's efficiency, linking the quality of acquired data directly to the positioning of the cameras. Strategically positioning multiple cameras in a potentially complex area, while ensuring effective communication between nodes, presents a challenging issue in VSNs applications. This paper introduces a specific method to enhance the deployment of visual sensors in indoor environments. The research addresses the theme of multi-objective optimization of VSN deployment, integrating various criteria: maximizing overall visual coverage, maximizing the observation of zones of interest, maximizing observation redundancy of zones of interest and ensuring communication connectivity for data transfers. To tackle this problem, we simulate the observed environment incorporating cameras, obstacles, and considering zones of interest. Camera positioning is performed while considering visual constraints and the scene's characteristics. The quality of positioning is evaluated based on the defined objective functions. Initially, a comparative study is conducted with a state-of-the-art approach, integrating the first three objective functions. Subsequently, we incorporate the fourth objective function to ensure data transfers. The proposed method demonstrates efficient camera network deployments in indoor areas, considering global coverage and observation redundancy. In contrast to the state-of-the-art, these results are achieved in areas with visual obstacles while ensuring communication connectivity between the different cameras.

Edge computing reduces the response time of real-time services with handling dynamic traffics reliably. Edge servers with limited resources utilize container technology that provides a lightweight execution environment. When deploying containers in edge servers, a container image is required and is downloaded from a remote registry. Therefore, these operations are dependent on network overhead between the container deployment system and the remote registry. Through motivation experiments, we show that container pooling time increases in proportion to physical distance and has characteristics that vary flexibly depending on runtime time. In this study, we define a system model for high-speed registry deployment in this edge system and propose a clustering technique into k groups based on the network overhead and affinity of the regionally distributed edge servers that make up the edge system. Also, considering idle resources, we propose a technique to deploy a registry after electing a leader for each cluster. A simulation experiment is conducted to verify the performance of the proposed technique and shows that performance improvement can be achieved regardless of the number of edge servers and the k value.

INTRODUCTION: Achalasia is a pathology with an incidence of 1 in 100,000 inhabitants per year. There are very limited data on achalasia in the obese population, especially in those undergoing bariatric surgery. The approach of choice for cases of achalasia is fundoplication to correct the reflux; however, lacking a fundus due to a previous gastrectomy, an alternative that offers optimal results should be chosen. Here we present the surgical approach in a case of esophageal achalasia and a history of vertical sleeve gastrectomy, where we performed simultaneous Heller's cardiomyotomy and laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, as well as the results obtained. CASE PRESENTATION: 44-year-old woman with no chronic degenerative diseases, with a previous record of vertical sleeve gastrectomy 5 years ago, who started 1 year and 5 months earlier with dysphagia to liquids, then to solids, in addition to weight loss of 10 kilograms in 4 months. The BMI before vertical sleeve gastrectomy was 32 kg/m2, her BMI at the time of admission was 20 kg/m2; she also presented regurgitation and generalized weakness. After analyzing the surgical options, it was decided to perform a Heller cardiomyotomy and a Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS: The procedure turned out to be safe and successful in treating achalasia symptomatology, in addition to complete resolution of the reflux symptom.

In this paper, we investigated transducer placement strategies for detecting crack in primary aircraft structures using ultrasonic Structural Health Monitoring (SHM). The approach developed is for an expected damage location based on fracture mechanics, for example fatigue crack growth in a high stress location. To assess the performance of the developed approach, finite-element (FE) modelling of a damage tolerant aluminum fuselage has been performed by introducing an artificial crack at a rivet hole into the structural FE model and assessing its influence on the Lamb wave propagation, compared to a baseline measurement simulation. The efficient practical sensor position was determined from the largest change in area that is covered by reflected and missing wave scatter using an additive color model. Blob detection algorithms were employed in order to determine the boundaries of this area and to calculate the blob centroid. To demonstrate that the technique can be generalized, the results from different crack lengths and from tilted crack are also presented.

Fatigue analysis plays a vital role in determining the structural integrity and life of a dental implant. With the use of such implants on the rise, there is a corresponding increase in the number of implant failures. As such, the aim of this research paper is to investigate the life of 3D-printed dental implants. The dental implants considered in this study were 3D printed according to the direct metal laser sintering (DMLS) method. Additionally, a finite element model was developed to study their performance, while fatigue life was predicted using Fe-Safe software®. The model was validated experimentally by performing fatigue tests. The life of the dental implants was analysed based on Normal strain and the Brown-Miller with Morrow mean correction factor algorithm. The model revealed that there was a strong correlation between the FEA and the experimental results. The clinical success of 3D-printed dental implant experimentally is 20.51 years and computationally under Normal strain is 19.89 years and Brown-Miller with Morrow mean correction factor is 26.82 years.

This study evaluated the mechanical strengths of three types of orthodontic micro-implants by analyzing their structural configurations. Thirty micro-implants of three types (diameter 1.5 mm, Types A, B, C) were assessed. All micro-implants were manually driven into artificial bones at an 8-mm depth. The insertion torque (IT), pullout strength (PS), and gripping volume (GV) of each type were measured. Intergroup comparisons and intragroup correlation were investigated by statistical analysis. Type B had the greatest inner–outer diameter ratio (0.67), and Type A had the smallest (0.53). The IT of Type A (5.26 Ncm) was significantly (p = 0.038) lower than that of Type C (8.8 Ncm). There was no significant difference in the pullout strength (p = 0.868). The GV of Type A (9.7 mm3) was significant (p < 0.01) greater than Type C (8.4 mm3). Type C was significant (p < 0.01) greater than Type B (7.2 mm3). Spearman’s rho rank correlation test showed that PS of Type B was correlated significantly with GV. In conclusion, the design of thread and its GV were the important factors on the mechanical strengths of micro-implant.

This review article deals with the design of bioactive calcium phosphate coatings deposited on metallic substrates to produce bone implants. The bioceramic coating properties are used to create a strong bonding between the bone implants and the surrounding bone tissue. They provide a fast response after implantation and increase the lifespan of the implant in the body environment. The first part of the article describes the different compounds belonging to the calcium phosphate family and their main properties for applications in biomaterials science. The calcium to phosphorus atomic ratio (Ca/P)at. and the solubility (Ks) of these compounds define their behavior in a physiological environment. Hydroxyapatite is the gold standard among calcium phosphate materials, but other chemical compositions/stoichiometries have also been studied for their interesting properties. The second part reviews the most usual deposition processes to produce bioactive calcium phosphate coatings for bone implant applications. Plasma spraying is the main industrial process, but magnetron sputtering, pulsed laser deposition, electrospray deposition, electrophoretic deposition, and electrodeposition are also widely studied in academic and industrial research. The last part describes the main physicochemical properties of calcium phosphate coatings and their impact on the bioactivity of bone implants in a physiological environment.

Crop production in Afghanistan suffers from limited phosphorus (P) availability, which severely hinders national agriculture sustainability. This present study hypothesized that deep fertilizer placement could significantly enhance uptake of immobile P and thus tissue P accumulation and crop yield. A two-year pot experiment growing two maize (Zea mays) hybrid cultivars (Xida-789 and Xida-211) was therefore conducted to test these hypotheses under three contrasting fertilizer placement methods (broadcast, side band, and deep band). In doing so, P concentrations in both maize tissues and soils were compared at 45, 60, and 115 days after sowing (DAS) under nine combinations of nitrogen (N) and P fertilizer rates (kg ha-1: N112P45, N112P60, N112P75, N150P45, N150P60, N150P75, N187P45, N187P60, N187P75). Results have shown that deep band placement significantly increased P uptake efficiency, leading to greater P concentration and accumulation in maize tissues compared to other two fertilization methods. This improved P uptake was attributed to several factors associated with deep placement, including reduced P fixation, enhanced root access to P, and moisture availability for P uptake. Additionally, deep band placement combined with higher N application rates (N187 and N150) further enhanced plant P uptake by promoting P availability and utilization mechanisms. Deep band placement also resulted in significantly higher total soil P, Olsen-P, and P use efficiency than broadcast and side band methods, indicating a more efficient P fertilization strategy for maize that can improve growth and yield. This present study also found positive correlations between P concentration in plant organs and soil Olsen-P, highlighting the importance of adequate soil P levels for optimal plant growth. Overall, our results have showed that deep band fertilizer placement emerged as a superior strategy for enhancing P uptake efficiency, utilization, and maize productivity compared to broadcast and side band placement. This approach can potentially optimize P fertilizer utilization, improve maize growth and yield, while minimizing environmental P losses associated with broadcast applications.

One of the rapidly developing research areas in the power system is the integration of distributed generation (DG) with the distribution system. The size and location of DG sources had a considerable impact on power system networks. Artificial intelligence (AI) techniques can be used to address multidimensional problems relating to DG size and location in distribution systems. Heuristic optimization offers a reliable and effective method for solving complicated real-world problems. This work focuses on a hybrid approach that combines the two heuristic optimization methods i.e., Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) and Genetic Algorithm (GA) for the optimal siting and sizing of DG in distribution systems. This hybrid approach combines ideas from GA and PSO and generates individuals in a new generation using both PSO mechanisms and the procedures found in GA. An extensive performance analysis of the IEEE 14 busbar standard test system is conducted to demonstrate the viability of the suggested methodologies. In the designated locations, DG is placed, and the outcomes have been verified. The results indicated that the right placement of DG injection enhances the voltage profile and lowers the distributed system’s power losses. These techniques offer unique methods for determining the location of the DG unit, demonstrating the potential of such a computational techniques to reduce computing time and complexity while simultaneously reducing human errors associated with hit-and-trail methods.

Vehicle windshield wiper system increases the driving safety by contributing a clear shot viewing to the driver. In this paper, modelling, designing and simulation of a vehicle windshield wiper system with robust control theory is done successfully. H∞ loop shaping and robust pole placement controllers are used to improve the wiping speed by tracking a reference speed signals. The reference speed signals used in this paper are step and sine wave signals. Comparison of the H∞ loop shaping and robust pole placement controllers based on the two reference signals is done and convincing results have been obtained. Finally the comparative results prove the effectiveness of the proposed H∞ Loop Shaping controller to improve the wiping mechanism for the given two reference signals.

In the past twenty years, the IT industry has moved away from using physical servers for workload management to workloads consolidated via virtualization and, in the next iteration, further consolidated into containers. In the next step, container workloads based on Docker and Podman as underlying container technologies were orchestrated/automated via Kubernetes or OpenShift. On the other hand, high-performance computing (HPC) environments have been lagging in that process, as there’s still much work to figure out how to apply containerization platforms for HPC in real-life scenarios. Kubernetes and OpenShift have many advantages – generally speaking, container technologies use quite a bit less overhead from the computing perspective while providing many benefits in flexibility, modularity, and maintenance. Therefore, they are ideal for tasks requiring a lot of computing power. There are also some tradeoffs regarding the complexity of these two platforms - they’re just not that user-friendly when used by people without years of experience managing them. In this paper, we propose a different architecture based on seamless hardware integration and user-friendly, dynamic workload placement based on real-time performance analysis and prediction coupled with Machine Learning-based scheduling.

Sparse recovery of fluid flows using data-driven proper orthogonal decomposition (POD) basis is systematically explored in this work. Fluid flows are manifestations of nonlinear multiscale PDE dynamical systems with inherent scale separation that impact the system dimensionality. Given that sparse reconstruction is inherently an ill-posed problem, the most successful approaches require the knowledge of the underlying basis space spanning the manifold in which the system resides. In this study, we employ an approach that learns basis from singular value decomposition (SVD) of training data to reconstruct sparsely sensed information. This results in a set of four control parameters for sparse recovery, namely, the choice of basis, system dimension required for sufficiently accurate reconstruction, sensor budget and their placement. The choice of control parameters implicitly determines the choice of algorithm as either $l_2$ minimization reconstruction or sparsity promoting $l_1$ norm minimization reconstruction. In this work, we systematically explore the implications of these control parameters on reconstruction accuracy so that practical recommendations can be identified. We observe that greedy-smart sensor placement provides the best balance of computational complexity and robust reconstruction for marginally oversampled cases which happens to be the most challenging regime in the explored parameter design space.

Dental caries is a public health problem worldwide according to WHO data. Among treatments in pediatric dentistry, prefabricated metal crowns (PMCs) have been one of the most successful options since they were introduced in cases of considerable tooth destruction. Our objective was to detect the presence and concentration of iron (Fe), chromium (Cr), and nickel (Ni) in saliva of patients who require rehabilitation with PMCs, before and after their placement. A quasi-experimental study was performed in 32 patients who attended dental care in a pediatric dentistry clinic at a public university and who required rehabilitation with PMCs. Parametric tests (ANOVA and Pearson correlation) were performed, and a p ≤ 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Statistically significant differences were found when comparing the Ni release before, 1 week, and 1 month after placing the crowns. Similarly, we observed a positive correlation between the number of crowns and Ni release. No tests were performed for Fe and Cr because the amounts of these metals were less than 0.1 ppb, which was not detectable by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES). The levels of Fe, Cr, and Ni released were below toxic health levels. Studies are required to evaluate whether this release has negative effects at cellular levels.

Surface treatment of implants facilitates osseointegration, with nanostructured surfaces exhibiting accelerated peri-implant bone regeneration. This study compared bone-to-implant contact (BIC) in implants with hydroxyapatite (HA), sand-blasted and acid-etched (SLA), and SLA with calcium (Ca)-coated (XPEED®) surfaces. Seventy-five disk-shaped grade 4 Ti specimens divided into three groups were prepared, with 16 implants per group tested in New Zealand white rabbits. Surface characterization was performed using X-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), digital microscopy, and a contact angle analyzer. Cell viability, proliferation, and adhesion were assessed using MC3T3-E1 cells. Apatite formation was evaluated using modified simulated body fluid (m-SBF) incubation. After 4 weeks of healing, the outcomes reviewed were BIC, bone area (BA), removal torque tests, and histomorphometric evaluation. Microstructure analysis revealed irregular pores across all groups, with the XPEED group exhibiting a nanostructured Ca-coated surface. Surface characterization showed a crystalline CaTiO3 layer on XPEED surfaces, with evenly distributed Ca penetrating the implants. All surfaces provided excellent environments for cell growth. The XPEED and SLA groups showed significantly higher cell density and viability with superior osseointegration than HA (p &lt; 0.05); XPEED exhibited the highest absorbance values. Thus, XPEED surface treatment improved implant performance, biocompatibility, stability, and osseointegration.

The present review compared the efficacy of soft tissue substitutes (STS) and autogenous free gingival graft (FGG) or connective tissue graft (CTG) in mucogingival procedures to increase keratinized tissue (KT) width around teeth and implants. Two independent examiners performed the electronic search on Medline and Cochrane Library based on the following PICO’s format: (P) adult patients; (I) soft tissue substitutes and FGG/CTG; (C) STS vs CTG; STS vs FGG; STS vs CTR; (O) KT width gain; (S) Systematic Reviews, Randomized Controlled Trials. Results showed that around teeth, all biomaterials showed superior performance compared to CAF alone for treating gingival recessions. However, when compared to CTG, ADM yields the most similar outcomes to the gold standard (CTG), even though in multiple recessions CTG still continue to be considered the most favorable approach. Use of STSs (acellular matrix or tissue engineered) in combination with an apically positioned flap resulted in a significantly less gain of KTW compared to what achieved with FGG and APF. Around dental implants, free gingival grafts were deemed more effective than soft tissue substitutes in enhancing keratinized mucosa width.

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women globally, often necessitating mastectomy and subsequent breast reconstruction. Silicone mammary implants (SMIs) play a pivotal role in breast reconstruction, yet their interaction with the host immune system and microbiome remains poorly understood. This study investigates the impact of SMI surface topography on host antimicrobial responses, wound proteome dynamics, and microbial colonization. Biological samples were col-lected from ten human patients undergoing breast reconstruction with SMIs. Mass spectrometry profiles were analyzed for acute and chronic wound proteomes, revealing a nuanced interplay between topography and antimicrobial respondseproteins. 16S rRNA sequencing assessed mi-crobiome dynamics, unveiling topography-specific variations in microbial composition. Surface topography alterations influenced wound proteome composition. Microbiome analysis revealed heightened diversity around rougher SMIs, emphasizing topography-dependent microbial inva-sion. In vitro experiments confirmed staphylococcal adhesion, growth, and biofilm formation on SMI surfaces, with increased texture correlating positively with bacterial colonization. This comprehensive investigation highlights the intricate interplay between SMI topography, wound proteome dynamics, and microbial transmission. The findings contribute to understanding host-microbe interactions on SMI surfaces, essential for optimizing clinical applications and minimizing complications in breast reconstruction.

The clinical application of Phentolamine Mesylate (PM) as an anaesthetic reversal agent has been documented in paediatric patients and in conservative dentistry, but no studies have been found in implant surgery. A prospective randomised study was conducted in 60 patients eligible for mandibular implant treatment, randomly divided between the Control Group (CG) and Experimental Group (EG), who were administered PM. Haemodynamic changes, adverse effects and patient satisfaction were assessed. No statistically significant differences in haemodynamic changes and postoperative pain were found between CG and EG (p&lt;0.05), except for Systolic Blood Pressure (SBP) which increased slightly in EG, without posing a risk to the patient. There were no differences in the presence of adverse effects between the two groups, except in the CG which presented greater difficulty in chewing and biting (p&lt;0.05) and the EG with greater pain in the injection area (p=0.043). 83.3% of the EG patients would request PM again for future dental treatment. The use of PM offers an alternative in implant surgery, without increasing the risks and increasing the patient's quality of life.

Agricultural drainage canals that connect upstream fish spawning areas to downstream rivers and lakes serve as crucial habitats for migrating fish. However, disconnections, such as drops and chutes, have been constructed in these canals due to agricultural modernization and flood control measures, hindering the movement of fish with limited swimming abilities. Portable fishways offer a promising solution to reconnect water bodies in agricultural canals, as they can be easily removed during high water discharges to avoid impeding the canals' drainage function. In addition to experimental assessments of fishway functionality, employing a hydrodynamic model to explore effective placement strategies for portable fishways is essential to maximize their effectiveness. This study presents a method to determine the best horizontal location of a portable fishway in an agricultural drainage canal using two-dimensional hydrodynamic simulations within the specified cases. The applicability of this method is demonstrated by addressing the positioning challenge of a portable fishway on a chute in an agricultural drainage canal in Japan. Results indicate that the proposed method allows for the selection of a suitable location, considering preferable hydraulic conditions both within the portable fishway and around its entrance.

Whole-genome sequencing has advanced our understanding of the population structure of the pathogenic species complex Cryptococcus gattii, which has allowed for the phylogenomic specification of previously described major molecular type groupings and novel lineages. Recently, isolates collected in Mexico in the 1960s were determined to be genetically distant from other known molecular types and were classified as VGVI. We sequenced four clinical isolates and one veterinary isolate collected in the southwestern U.S. and Argentina during 2012-2021. Phylogenomic analysis groups these genomes with those of the Mexican VGVI isolates, expanding VGVI into a clade and establishing this molecular type as a clinically important population. These findings also potentially expand the known Cryptococcus ecological range with a previously unrecognized endemic area.

Medical implants made of biodegradable materials could be of advantage for temporary applications such mechanical support during bone-healing or as vascular stents to keep blood vessels open. After completion of the healing process the implant would disappear, avoiding long-term side effects or the need for surgical removal. Various corrodible metal alloys based on magnesium, iron or zinc have been proposed as sturdier and potentially less inflammatory alternative to degradable organic polymers, in particular for load-bearing applications. Despite the recent introduction of magnesium-based screws the remaining hurdles to routine clinical applications are still challenging, such as limiting mechanical material characteristics or unsuitable corrosion characteristics. Here, salient features and clinical prospects of currently investigated biodegradable implant materials are summarized with a main focus on magnesium alloys. A mechanism of action for the stimulation of bone growth due to the exertion of mechanical force by magnesium corrosion products is discussed. To explain divergent in vitro and in vivo effects of magnesium a novel model for bacterial biofilm infections is proposed which predicts crucial consequences antibacterial implant strategies.

Currently the bimatoprost implant (DURYSTA) is approved for a single administration secondary to concern for progressive corneal endothelial cell (CEC) loss with intracameral administration. In order to better understand the cause of CEC loss and other adverse events (AEs) with intracameral administration, multimodal imaging of the implant utilizing optical coherence topography (OCT), robotic ultrasound and bio microscopy video recording was utilized. Inherently the anterior chamber is a non-confined space. In certain examples the implant assumed a round and spotted structure as it picked up iris pigment as it migrated around the anterior chamber. Accordingly, we explored delivery of the implant in the middle segment behind the iris and in front of the pseudophakic lens. We then evaluated the suitability of various imaging modalities to assess the implant in this location. For middle segment administration, the ArcScan Insight 100 robotic ultrasound provided resolution and repeatability sufficient to monitor the implant behind the iris. This preliminary study hypothesizes that DURYSTA migration in the anterior chamber is the main source of AEs. Through use of a confined location, the middle segment, the implant is unlikely to migrate and cause CEC loss while also delivering drug closer to its site of action, the ciliary body. Further efforts are underway to understand the suitability of the middle segment for serial DURYSTA administration to maximize intraocular pressure lowering while minimizing AEs.

Background/Objectives: Peritoneal dialysis as a form of renal function sub-stitution is not as widespread as hemodialysis. However, it has recognized advantages such as preservation of the residual renal func-tion, no need for vascular access , can be performed at home, but requires a proper in-sertion of a peritoneal dialysis (PD) catheter and maintaining its patency. Methods: We presented a 10-year retrospective study on a group of 133 patients hos-pitalized for peritoneal dialysis catheter insertion/replacement. We routinely implant the catheter laparoscopically, but there were cases in which the insertion was performed open route. We analyzed the patient group by age and gender criteria, number of complications and time when they appeared, duration of surgical intervention and the surgical technique used (126 were performed laparoscopically and 7 were inserted via open route). The open technique was performed mainly in patients with contraindications of general anesthesia. Results: We encountered a number of 23 complications in 18 patients, in only 1 case the patient was switched to permanent hemodialysis (at his own wish). We highlighted in the study the indisputable advantages of laparoscopy, supported by the results obtained: correct placement of the catheter, the possibility of adhesiolysis, preservation of the peritoneal surface through minor op-erative trauma, low number of complications(bleeding, migration, hernia 0,8%, leakage 4%, lower than those found in the literature). Even if infection was the most frequent complication (peritonitis 35%, catheter exit site infection 30.4%), only 1 case appered in the pretraining period. All complications were managed by medical treatment or by temporary cessation of peritoneal lavage, except of two cases that required reimplantation of the catheter. Conclusions: Laparoscopic catheter insertion for PD is a safe method, with reduced post-procedural complications, thus ensuring a long duration of the functionality of the catheter.

In this paper, a new relay system that uses the UAV as a relay station between the tethered UAV and ground user (TU2U2G) is proposed. The TU2U2G system replaces the base station (BS) in the cellular system with a tethered UAV (TUAV). The TUAV is a UAV that receives power over a cable from a ground control station. It has advantages of high and variable altitude up to (100m) compared to BS. In addition, it overcomes the UAV drawback of the batteries' limited capacity. After that, a 3D placement Algorithm of the UAV as a relay station in the TU2U2G system is proposed. It is presented to maximize the coverage by jointly optimizing the transmitting power and relaying distance. The TU2U2G system shows better results than the traditional cellular system in terms of optimum UAV height, maximum coverage radius, and maximum distance between BS and UAV.

Balanced nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) rates coupling with rational fertilization methodology could promote crop N accumulation, N use efficiency and yield production, particularly in semi-arid and arid regions. To test these characteristics, a two-year (2018 and 2019) pot experiment was therefore performed by growing summer maize in a rain-proof glass greenhouse, under 9 combined N (112, 150 and 187 kg ha-1, urea) and P (45, 60, 75 kg ha-1, calcium superphosphate) rates and three contrasting fertilizer placements. The fertilizers were placed by broadcast on soil surface (Broadcast), side band on 4 cm strip soil surface within 7 cm from sowing line (Side band) and deep band on 4 cm strip below 7 cm soil depth within 7 cm from sowing line (Deep band). Results from three maize growth stages (eight-leaf, 45 days after sowing, DAS; tasseling, 60 DAS; and harvest, 115 DAS) showed that leaf, stem, root N accumulation and total soil N were significantly increased under Deep band than under both Side band and Broadcast at N150P60, N187P60, N150P75 and N187P75, but not at N112P45, N150P45, N187P45, N112P60 and N112P75. Significantly greater leaf, stem, and root N accumulations were also displayed at N150 and N187 than at N112 for the same P60 or P75 under Deep band at 60 DAS and 115 DAS, while were for leaf and stem N accumulations at P75 and P60 than at P45 for the same N150 under Deep band at 45 DAS, 60 DAS and 115 DAS. Significantly greater agronomy N use efficiency, partial factor productivity and N use efficiency exhibited under Deep band than under Side band and Broadcast at N150P75 and N187P75, but at N150P60 and N187P60 for NUE only. In addition, leaf, stem, seed, root N concentrations positively correlated with their own N accumulations or soil N concentration at tasseling and harvest stages. Our results demonstrate that a synchronized N150P60, N187P60, N150P75 or N187P75 fertilization rate with Deep band placement can improve soil N availability and root N uptake, and hereby greater aboveground N accumulation, N use efficiency and yield production of maize particularly practical for small-holder farmers globally.

Sustainable agriculture is at the forefront of modern farming practices, with a growing emphasis on optimizing crop production while minimizing environmental impact. The choice of fertilizer application technology plays a critical role in achieving these objectives. Soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr.), a valuable crop globally, serves both as a source of human nutrition and livestock feed. To address the challenges of enhancing soybean production while minimizing ecological harm, this study evaluates and compares the performance of different fertilizer application technologies. In this study we combined remote and ground surveys to allow a comprehensive understanding of the impact of these technologies on soybean cultivation. The study focuses on deep placement of slow-release nitrogen fertilizers with coated urea at a 20 cm depth, conventional nitrogen fertilizer application, and manure organic fertilizer application. Remote surveys are conducted using advanced smart farming tools such as Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV), ground surveys such as soil plant analysis development SPAD measurements, and soybean parameters to assess the impact of fertilizer application. This study revealed that deep placement fertilizer demonstrated better performance compared to other fertilizer application technologies for soybean cultivation. The findings from this study contribute to the advancement of sustainable agricultural practices and empower farmers with knowledge to make informed decisions for optimizing green soybean production.

Background: The treatment plan of prosthetic restorations supported by dental implants require comprehensive scientific knowledge to deliver prostheses with good prognosis, even before the implant insertion. This review aims to analyze the main prosthetic determinants of the prognosis of implant-supported prostheses. Methods: A systematic review of the literature was conducted with a PICO question: "For partially or complete edentulous subjects treated with implant-supported prostheses, which prosthetic factors could affect clinical outcomes?". A literature search was performed electronically in PubMed (MEDLINE), Scopus and Cochrane Library with the following equation [PROGNOS* OR RISK] FACTOR IMPLANT DENTAL, and by hand search in relevant journals and throughout the selected papers. Results: This revision was carried out based on 50 papers focused on several prosthodontics-related risk factors that were grouped as follows: implant-connection, loading protocol, transmucosal abutments, prosthetic fit, provisionalization, type of retention, impression technique, fabrication technique, and occlusion. More than a half of the studies were systematic reviews (30%), meta-analysis (16%) or prospective evaluations of prosthesis with various kinds of events (18%). But also narrative reviews of literature (14%) and in vitro/animal studies (16%) were found. Conclusions: The current literature provides insufficient evidence for most of the investigated topics. However, based on the accumulated data, it seems reasonable to defend that the best treatment approach is the use of morse taper implants with transmucosal abutments, recorded by means of rigidly splinted copings through the pick-up technique, and screwed by milled prosthesis occlusally adjusted to minimize functional overloading.

This systematic review investigates the failure rate and marginal bone loss (MBL) of dental implants placed in Solid-organ transplant (SOT) patients compared to healthy controls. Three databases (PubMed, Web of Sciences and the Cochrane Library) were searched up to June 2020 (PROSPERO CRD42019124896). Case-control and cohort studies reporting data failure rate and marginal bone loss (MBL) of dental implants placed in SOT patients were included. The risk of bias of observational studies was assessed through the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS). Four case-control studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria, all of low risk of bias. Meta-analyses revealed consistently lower implant failure rate than control populations at patient and implant levels. SOT patients had a significant difference of -18% (p-value <0.001) of MLB towards healthy patients. SOT status poses no serious threat to implant survival. Overall, this group of patients presented lower levels of dental implant failure rate and marginal bone loss compared to otherwise healthy patients. Further intervention trials with wider sample size and longer follow-ups are necessary to confirm these summary results.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the pain and inflammatory response in soft tissues using healing and prosthetic abutments of different diameters and lengths. Methods: The study population was rehabilitated with Astra tech EV single implants (Dentsply Sirona, Atlantis, Dentsply Sirona S.A., Barcelona, Spain), 4.2 and 4.8 millimetres in diameter in upper and lower maxilla and loaded with custom abutments digitally designed with the software of the company Dentsply Sirona (Atlantis WebOrder, Dentsply Sirona S.A., Barcelona, Spain), version 4.6.5, with a larger diameter than the healing abutment, to account for biomarkers through ELISA. Results: Rehabilitations in mandible and with healing abutments below 4.29 millimetres and rehabilitators below 2.18 millimetres elicited higher pain and inflammatory responses, and in turn higher interleukin 1β values. Conclusions: Greater inflammation was evident in cases in which healing abutments with reduced diameter were used in relation to the same subsequent rehabilitation with prosthetic abutments of larger diameter.

INTRODUCTION: Breast sensibility following reconstruction surgery, though often overlooked, holds significant importance due to its widespread occurrence and profound effects on patients’ well-being and safety. Our objective is to compare the sensory outcomes between DIEP flap microsurgery reconstruction and implant-based reconstruction. Additionally, we explored the potential influence of sociodemographic and clinical factors on sensory recovery, along with assessing temperature discrimination abilities and evaluating quality of life. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We conducted an ambispective descriptive-analytical study, involving women who underwent mastectomy with reconstruction using either DIEP flap and implants at our hospital between 1990 and 2021. Data were collected from medical records, patient histories, physical examination, and validated quality of life questionnaires (BREAST-Q). RESULTS: A total of 99 women with breast reconstruction were included, 47 with DIEP flap and 52 with implants. Sensory recovery in implant-based reconstruction was found to be superior to DIEP flap reconstruction (5.03 and 5.18 respectively, p-value &lt;0.005). A direct correlation was observed between sensory improvement and thermal discrimination (Spearman coefficient 0.9, p-value &lt;0.001). Factors such as radiotherapy, delayed reconstruction with DIEP flap, and height with implants were associated with poorer sensory recovery in the breast. Women experiencing better breast sensibility reported higher satisfaction with their surgeon, medical team, and psychosocial quality of life. CONCLUSION: Women reconstructed with implants or DIEP abdominal flap exhibit suboptimal overall sensory recovery of the reconstructed breast, with slightly better outcomes observed in women reconstructed with implants.

Recently, the indications for Cochlear Implant (CI) have also been extended to subjects with Single Sided Deafness (SSD) in order to restore binaural hearing. The primary objective of this study was to investigate the advantages of CI following one year of usage in SSD subjects. Secondarily we want to assess the long-term stability of the CI. 57 participants performed a complete audiological assessment (speech audiometry in quiet and in noise and localization test). For each was also evaluated subjective hearing profile (with Speech Spatial and Qualities_SSQ questionnaire) and the impact of tinnitus (with the use of Tinnitus Handicap Inventory_THI questionnaire) After one year of CI usage, we observed a significant improvement in speech-to-noise ratio, in sound localization abilities, in the Speech (p-value 0.001) and Spatial (p-value 0.001) subscales of the SSQ questionnaire and in THI questionnaire (p-value 0.001). The improvements in speech in noise and localization abilities and the reduction of the SSQ and THI questionnaires scores were maintained over time (6th to 60th month follow-up). Only eight participants did not fully utilize the CI. CI in SSD represents an effective method for improving speech recognition in noisy environments, restoring sound localization abilities, reducing tinnitus and improve subjective listening skills.

The objective of this study was to compare the distribution of stress in the maxillary bone, dental implants, and prosthetic components supporting implant-supported maxillary overdentures with partial palatal coverage, in both splinted and unsplinted designs. Two models of maxillary overdentures were designed using the Exocad Dental CAD program, which included cancellous and cortical bone. The complete denture design and abutments (locator abutments in the unsplinted and Hader bar with Vertix attachments placed distally in the splinted variant) were also designed. The denture material was PEEK (Polyetheretherketone), and the method used to analyze patient-specific 3D X-ray scans was 3D QCT/FEA (Three-dimensional Quantitative Computed Tomography-Based Finite Element Analysis). Loading was divided into three load cases: frontal region (both incisors of the denture) and distal region (both molars and first premolar of the denture). The forces applied were 150 N with an oblique component with a buccal inclination of 35° in the frontal region, and 600 N with a buccal inclination of 5° (molars) or solely vertical (premolar) in the distal region. The model with locator abutments showed higher stresses in all load cases in both analyzed implant variants and in the maxilla. The differences in stress distribution between the splinted and unsplinted variants were more significant in the distal region. According to the results of the present study, the amount of stress in bone tissue and dental implant parts was smaller in the splinted, bar-retained variant. The findings of this study can be useful in selecting the appropriate prosthetic design for implant-supported maxillary overdentures with partial palatal coverage.

The aim of this study was to analyze surgical and refractive outcomes of XEN glaucoma implant (Allergan, an Abbvie company, Irvine, CA, USA), a minimally invasive surgical device for the treatment of refractory glaucoma. A retrospective chart review of eyes that received XEN Gel Stent placement from December 2014 to October 2019 was conducted. Intraocular pressure (IOP) change, best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), change in glaucoma medications, frequency of slit lamp revision procedures, and frequency of secondary glaucoma surgeries were the primary outcomes. Seventy-two subjects were included in the study: 32 (44%) males and 40 (56%) females. The mean follow-up time was 26.87 ± 15.33 months. The mean IOP before surgery was 24.82 ± 8.03 mmHg and decreased to 17.45 ± 5.84 mmHg at the end of the study, MD = -7.48, CI95 [-10.04; -4.93], p < 0.001. The mean decrease from baseline was 23%. Before surgery BCVA was 0.38±0.30 and at the end of the follow-up period it had improved to 0.47±0.37, MD = 0.09, CI95 [0.04; 0.13], p < 0.001. Additional procedures (fluorouracil injection, Bleb needling) were performed in 11/72 patients (15%). Further glaucoma surgery was necessary for 23.9%% of the patients. Implantation of XEN Gel Stent is both safe and effective for lowering IOP in refractory glaucoma patients.

Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS) is an effective and validated treatment to address chronic refractory neuropathic pain in Persistent Spinal Pain Syndrome-Type 2 (PSPS-T2) patients. Surgical SCS lead placement is traditionally performed under general anesthesia due to its invasiveness. In parallel, recent works have suggested that Awake Anesthesia (AA), consisting in Target Controlled Intra-Veinous Anesthesia (TCIVA), could be an interesting tool to optimize lead anatomical placement using patient intra-operative feedback. We hypothesized that combining AA with Minimal Invasive Surgery (MIS) could improve SCS outcomes. The goal of this study was to evaluate SCS lead performance (defined by the area of pain adequately covered by paraesthesia generated via SCS), using an intraoperative objective quantitative mapping tool, and secondarily to assess pain relief, functional improvement and change in quality of life with a composite score. We analyzed data from a prospective multicenter study (ESTIMET) to compare the outcomes of 115 patients implanted with MIS under AA (MISAA group) or General Anesthesia (MISGA group), or by Laminectomy under General Anesthesia (LGA group). All in all, MISAA appears to show significantly better performance in terms of patient pain coverage, as well as improved secondary outcomes. One step further, our results suggest that MISAA combined with intra-operative hypnosis could potentialize patient intraoperative cooperation and could be proposed as a personalized package offered to PSPS-T2 patients eligible for SCS implantation in highly dedicated neuromodulation centers.

Well placement optimization in a given geological setting for a fractured geothermal reservoir is a prerequisite for enhanced geothermal operations. High computational cost associated in the framework of fully coupled thermo-hydraulic-mechanical (THM) processes in a fractured reservoir simulation, makes the well positioning as a missing point in developing a field scale investigation. Here, in this study, we shed light on this topic through examining different injection-production well (doublet) position in a given real fracture network. Water and CO2 are used as working fluids for geothermal operations and importance of well positions are examined using coupled THM numerical simulations for both the fluids. Results of this study are examined through the thermal breakthrough time, mass flux and the energy extraction potential to assess the impact of well position in a two-dimensional reservoir framework. Almost ten times of the difference between the final amount of heat extraction is observed for different well position but with the same well spacing and geological characteristics. Furthermore, stress field is be a strong function of well position that is important with respect to the possibility of unwanted stress development. As part of the MEET project, this study recommends to perform similar well placement optimization study for each fracture set in a fully coupled THM manner before a field well drilling.

In the past, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) were mostly used in the military operations to prevent pilot losses. Nowadays, the fast technological evolution enables the production of a class of cost-effective UAVs which can service a plethora of public and civilian applications, specially when configured to work cooperatively to accomplish a task. However, designing a communication network among the UAVs is challenging task. In this article, we propose a centralized UAV placement strategy, where UAVs are used as flying access points forming a mesh network, providing connectivity to ground nodes deployed in a target area. The geographical placement of UAVs is optimized based on a Multi-Objective Evolutionary Algorithm (MOEA). The goal of the proposed scheme is to cover all ground nodes using a minimum number of UAVs, while maximizing the fulfillment of their data rate requirements. The UAVs can employ different data rates depending on the channel conditions, which are expressed by the Signal-to-Noise-Ratio (SNR). In this work, elitist Non-Dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm II (NSGA-II) is used to find a set of optimal positions to place UAVs, given the positions of the ground nodes. We evaluate the trade-off between the number of UAVs used to cover the target area and the data rate requirement of the ground nodes. Simulation results show that the proposed algorithm can optimize the UAV placement given the requirement and the positions of the ground nodes in the geographical area.

Load variations in any power system result in losses escalation and voltage drops. With the sensible and optimal allocation of distributed generators (DGs), these problems could be considerably mitigated. It has been seen in the priorly existing methods that ideally allocation of DGs has been carried out during fixed loads and constant power requirements. However, in real scenarios the loads are always variable and allocation of DGs must be done in accordance to the variations of the connected load. Therefore, the current paper addressed the aforementioned problem by distinctive optimal allocation of DGs for each variability of 24hour load horizon. However, the single exclusive solution is considered among all allocations of 24 hours. The min-max regret concept has been utilized in order to deal with such methodology. Altogether, 24 scenarios are analyzed wherein each scenario corresponds to a specific hour of the respective day. The optimal allocation of DGs in terms of their optimal sizing and placement has been carried out by using three algorithms including battle royal optimization (BRO), accelerated particle swarm optimization (APSO) and genetic algorithm (GA). The multi-objective optimization problem is evaluated on the basis of minimum value criterion of the multi-objective index (MO). MO comprises of active and reactive power losses and voltage deviation. Hence, in order to find robustness of proposed technique, Conseil international des grands réseaux electriques (CIGRE’s) MV benchmark model incorporating 14 buses has been considerably used as a test network. In the end the results of three proposed algorithms have been compared.

With the every passing day, the demand for data traffic is increasing and this demand forces the research community not only to look for alternating spectrum for communication but also urges the radio frequency planners to use the existing spectrum smartly. Cell size is shrinking with the every upcoming communication generation which makes the base station placement planning complex and cumbersome. In order to make the next-generation cost-effective, it is important to design the network in such a way which utilizes minimum number of base stations while ensure coverage and quality of service. This paper aims at develop a new approach using hybrid metaheuristic and metamodel applied in multi-transmitter placement planning (MTPP) problem. We apply radial basis function (RBF) metamodel to assist particle swarm optimizer (PSO) in a constrained simulation-optimization (SO) of MTPP to mitigate the associated computational burden of optimization procedure. We evaluate the effectiveness and applicability of proposed algorithm in a case study by simulating MTPP model with two, three, four and five transmitters.

Some evidence supports the influence of the implant macro-design and primary stability. Additionally, tactile perception can be used to assess implant stability when placing the implant. This research aimed to quantify the primary and secondary stability of three implant systems with two different macro geometries (cylindrical and conical) determined through the insertion torque and the implant stability quotient (ISQ) at the moment of implant placement as a function of implant-related factors (length, width, dental arch, and implant location in the arch), intraoperative factors (bone density determined subjectively by the clinician's tactile perception), and patient-related factors (age, gender and bone density determined objectively in the cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). Methods: 102 implants of three implant systems with two different macro geometries (conical and cylindrical) were placed in 53 patients. The insertion torque, the ISQ at the implant placement (ISQ0), and bone quality according to the clinician's tactile sensation were recorded on the day of the surgery. After a three-month healing period, the ISQ was re-evaluated (ISQ3). Results: Cylindrical implants exhibited significantly higher insertion torque and ISQ at the moment of the surgery and after three months than conical implants. Cylindrical implants also showed significantly lower indices of tactile evaluation of bone quality during the implant placement surgery. However, no differences were demonstrated in the bone density measured objectively in the CBCT. (4) Conclusions: The cylindrical implants achieved the highest values for primary stability (Ncm and ISQ) and secondary stability (ISQ after three months). Insertion torque was the variable that most influenced ISQ on the day of the surgery. Implant location (incisors-canines, bicuspids-molars) and the implant macro geometry were the variables that most influenced the secondary stability (ISQ at three months).

The type of implant at the fracture site has effects not only from biological perspective but also from mechanical perspective in fracture healing. Biodegradable implants such as magnesium (Mg) based alloys have shown faster secondary bone healing properties as compared to bioinert implants such as titanium (Ti). The general reasoning behind this is the benefit of Mg from biocompatibility perspectives. We study the effect of Ti and Mg as base materials for implants with their different mechanical properties. The focus of our work is on the displacements at the fracture site of the tibia and their influence on the stimulus for bone healing. We have found that in comparison to Ti, Mg implants have minimal stress shielding problem, only which led to better mechanical stimulus at the fracture site.

Object. Utilization of pedicle screws (PS) for spine stabilization is common in spinal surgery. With reliance on visual inspection of anatomical landmarks prior to screw placement, the free-hand technique requires a high level of surgeon skill and precision. Three-dimensional (3D) computer-assisted virtual neuronavigation improves the precision of PS placement and minimize steps. Methods. Twenty-three patients with degenerative, traumatic, or neoplastic pathologies received treatment via a novel three-step PS technique that utilizes a navigated power driver in combination with virtual screw technology. 1) Following visualization of neuroanatomy using intraoperative CT, a navigated 3-mm match stick drill bit was inserted at anatomical entry point with screen projection showing virtual screw. 2) Navigated Stryker Cordless Driver with appropriate tap was used to access vertebral body through pedicle with screen projection again showing virtual screw. 3) Navigated Stryker Cordless Driver with actual screw was used with screen projection showing the same virtual screw. One hundred and forty-four consecutive screws were inserted using this three-step, navigated driver, virtual screw technique. Results. Only 1 screw needed intraoperative revision after insertion using the three-step, navigated driver, virtual PS technique. This amounts to a 0.69% revision rate. One hundred percent of patients had intraoperative CT reconstructed images to confirm hardware placement. Conclusions. Pedicle screw placement utilizing the Stryker-Ziehm neuronavigation virtual screw technology with a three step, navigated power drill technique is safe and effective.

Today, dental implantology is a reliable technique for the treatment of partial and total edentulism. The fixing of dentures on dental implants can be achieved by a number of different techniques. The choice of technique depends on the specific needs of the patient, the condition of the jawbone and the design of the prosthesis itself. Currently, the two most common types of prosthetic abutment connections are cemented or screwed connections, both of which have disadvantages and ad-vantages. The aim of this study is to analyze, with Finite Element Analysis (FEA), a new Cone Morse connection system between the prosthesis and implant. The connection retention has been analyzed by adopting three different approaches: analytical, in vitro and the FEA method. The systems formed by abutment, healing-cap, and crown with three different inclination conditions were modeled in 3D: 0°, 15° and 30°. With Ansys finite element software, the effect of tilt on system retention was studied. The FEA analysis showed comparable results with in vitro studies regarding the retention strength for an abutment-cap system with a taper of 4°, obtaining 66.6 N compared to 68 N calculated through an in vitro study. The inclination of the abutment affects the retention of the system because the hole made on the surface of the abutment, decreases the contact area between the components. The Cone Morse prosthesis implant connection system is the most stable and efficient system compared to the threaded or cemented system. Retention is influenced by factors such as abutment conicity, insertion strength and the contact surface be-tween components.

Recipients of uterus transplantation have unique factors that may increase their risk of cervical insufficiency. This report describes a uterus transplant recipient with cervical insufficiency resulting in two second-trimester miscarriages. After McDonald cerclages (one that failed), she underwent an interval transabdominal cerclage and delivered a healthy term child in her third pregnancy. The longitudinal information of this case provides observations from which we can propose testable hypotheses that address venous outflow and inflammation. This case also suggests that there could be a role for prophylactic cerclage placement at the time of transplantation.

TThe following three objectives were tested in this study: (1) investigate the utility of low-altitude remote sensing using UAS technology to compare the effects of different N application systems in rice production; (2) use spatial extrapolation to scale up plot-level generated to farmer field rice yield data based on crop spectral signatures, and (3) predict and map out rice productivity as a function of N placement systems. Images were captured on a UAV platform at midseason of the rice crop. Orthomosaics were developed for selected fields in rice-producing zones. Grain yields were assessed from low, medium, and high crop health plots delineated based on NDVI values. On the plot scale, UDP outyielded non-UDP by 0.84%. Individual plot yield data were scaled up to the farmer field level through Jenks natural breaks classification and es-tablishing an empirical relationship between OSAVI and plot yields. Assessment of the scaled-up field levelfield-level data also confirmed the superiority of UDP N man-agement over the non-UDP systems in promoting rice yields. Scaling up plot scale da-ta to whole field levels also facilitated generating and mapping expected yield maps for individual farmer fields in the three zones studied. This study has established a tangible simple but tangible protocol protocol for predicting and mapping rice yields in small-scale farmer fields using UAS data.

(1) Background : When placing implants in the maxillary posterior region with insufficient alveolar bone, a maxillary sinus elevation is necessary. Autogenous bone, though biologically ideal, poses risks and discomfort due to donor site harvesting. Block-type autogenous tooth bone graft material, made from the patient’s own extracted tooth, offers similar biological stability without these drawbacks; (2) Methods : This study observed the progress of 19 implant patients who were treated with maxillary sinus elevation procedures using block-type autogenous tooth bone graft material at the Daegu Catholic University Medical Center. Extracted teeth were processed into demineralized tooth block bone. After elevating the sinus membrane, implants and the tooth bone graft material were placed in the space, and the bony window was repositioned. Postoperative evaluations through clinical observation and radiographic imaging assessed sinus membrane elevation, alveolar bone height increase, and implant osseointegration; (3) Results : Results showed proportional increases in alveolar bone height to the graft material size, with long-term stability. No postoperative complications occurred, even with sinus membrane perforation, and implants remained stable; (4) Conclusions : The study concludes that maxillary sinus lifts using block-type autogenous tooth bone graft material provide excellent bone induction and biocompatibility, making it a highly beneficial method for both dentists and patients.

Background: Restorative materials might significantly affect load transmission at peri-implant bone. The aim of the present study is to evaluate the shock absorption capacity of two different polymeric materials to be used as frameworks for implant-supported prostheses. Methods: A masticatory robot was used to compare the shock absorption capacity of polyether-ketoneketone (PEKK) Pekkton®ivory (Cendres+Mètaux) and glass fiber-reinforced composite (GFRC) TRINIATM (Bicon). Five identical sample crowns for each of the materials was tested un-der the same conditions described in previously published papers (Menini et al. 2013). Forces transmitted at the simulated periimplant bone were recorded and statistically analysed. Results: The statistical analysis of forces transmitted at the simulated dental implant revealed significant differences between all the materials tested and significant differences with the mate-rials tested in a previously published paper (Menini et al. 2013: zirconia, glass ceramic, composite resin, acrylic resin). Only differences between PEKK and veneered PEKK and between PEKK and one of the previously tested composite resins were not statistically significant. PEKK samples demonstrated significantly greater shock absorption capacity compared to GFRC. Conclusions: PEKK revealed optimal shock absorption capacity. Further studies are needed to evaluate its efficacy in case of long span prostheses with reduced prosthetic volume.

Background: This study aimed to evaluate survival rate, marginal bone levels, and full arch prosthetic success on short implants when placed in areas of severely resorbed and edentulous mandibles. Methods: This is a systematic review of all randomized controlled trials of at least 10 patients with a control group in which bone augmentations were performed that were published between January 2010 and February 2023. Only 3 relevant studies met the inclusion criteria. Results: It obtained demonstrate that short-term dental implant survival rates ranged from 94.2% to 97.4% with a 5-year follow-up and the prosthetic success rate varied by 62% during the same follow-up. The mean marginal bone level values ​​of the affected short implants ranged from 0.2 mm to 0.6 mm. Conclusions: The data obtained demonstrated that short dental implants positioned with criterion and precision as a full-arch fixed support are a valid therapeutic choice for the medium-long term rehabilitation of severe edentulous mandibular atrophy.

Denture wearers often complain about jeopardized function and reduced quality of life due to lack of prosthesis’ retention. Implant retained mandibular overdentures, on 2 non-connected implants (2IOD) are well-proven solutions to overcome these issues. We prospectively assessed 69 patients and scrutinized clinical records until at least 7 years of function. Thirty-six were retained on Locator ® Abutments (LA) and thirty-tree on Ball Abutments (BA). Both systems were compared regarding the type, amount and total cost of required maintenance. One implants was lost, yielding 98.7% survival after 7 years. In total 438 technical issues occurred: 121 (27.35%) in BA and 317 (72.4%) in LA. Out of these, 343 events (78%) were solved chairside: 191 (43.6%) were replacements of retention caps, 113 (25.8%) were minor acrylic repairs, in 26 (5.9%) pressure ulcers had to be relieved and 13 (3%) related to abutments. LA required 179 insert replacements compared to 12 in the BA group. The overall initial treatment cost was 3850 euro. The average total maintenance cost in relation to the initial cost for the LA and BA groups was 19.11% (range 0% - 82.24%) and 18.91% (range 0% - 113.26%) respectively (P=0.540). Conclusions: The 7-years maintenance costs for a 2IOD is acceptable when the patient is regularly checked and professionally maintained. Most events are easily solvable chairside, but a few patients required more expensive interventions, regardless of the type of attachment used.

Peri-implantitis continues to be one of the major reasons for implant failures. We propose a new approach for incorporating MTA into Zirconia implant surfaces with Nd:YAG laser and investigate the biological response of peri-implant cells as well as the microbiological response. Discs of Zirconia stabilized with Yttria and Titanium were produced according 4 tested groups: Nd:YAG laser textured Zirconia coated with MTA (Zr MTA); Nd:YAG laser textured Zirconia (Zr Textured); Zirconia and Titanium discs (Zr and Ti ). Contact profilometry was used to evaluate surface roughness. Human osteoblasts, gingival fibroblasts and S. oralis were cultured on samples. Cell adhesion and morphology, cell viability, cell differentiation markers and bacterial growth were assessed. Zr Textured roughness was significantly higher compared to all other groups. Cellular adhesion was observed at 1 day in all samples in both cell lines. Osteoblasts viability was lower in Zr MTA group, unlike fibroblasts viability was shown to be higher in Zr MTA group compared to Zr Textured group at 3 and 7 days. Osteocalcin and IL-8 release by osteoblasts were higher in Zr MTA. Zr Textured showed higher IL-8 values released by fibroblasts. No differences in S. oralis CFUs were observed between groups. The results suggest that Zirconia implant surfaces coated with MTA seems to promote fibroblasts proliferation and osteoblasts differentiation, however does not appear to have antibacterial properties.

Effects and interactions of incubation time and chick preplacement holding time on mortality at placement, utilization of yolk sac, crop filling rate, early feeding–drinking behavior and broiler live performance were investigated. Ross 308 broiler hatching eggs from a 39-week-old flock were set in two identical setters in a commercial hatchery,with setting time 12 hours earlier in one machine. At the end of incubation, chicks were removed from the hatchers at the same time. Thus, incubation times were either 504 h (normal incubation time (NIT) treatment) or 516 h (longer incubation time (LIT) treatment). After pull time, chicks from each incubation time group were subjected to either 6, 24, 48, 60 or 72 h preplacement holding times. At placement, chicks were given access to feed and water. In total, 19,200 chicks were randomly assigned to a total of 10 subtreatment groups (2 incubation times × 5 preplacement holding times). Therefore, a total of 1,920 chicks were used in each subtreatment group for the grow-out period in a commercial broiler house. An interaction was found between incubation time and preplacement holding time for residual yolk sac (RYS) weight (g, %) (p &lt; 0.001). RYS weight was greater at pull time and at 6 and 24 h of preplacement holding time in the NIT treatment compared to the LIT treatment, while differences were no longer evident at 48–72 h. The lowest percentage of chicks with full crops and eating activity was observed in the shortest preplacement holding time (6 h) group at 3 h after placement. As expected, the initial BW at placement clearly decreased with increasing duration after the pull time (p &lt; 0.05) with the highest and lowest weights were found in the 6 and 72 h holding time treatments respectively. This BW difference was still evident at 35 d after placement and chicks held for the longest period after the pull time (72 h) showed the lowest BW (p &lt; 0.001). However, there was no significant difference between the 6 and 60 h preplacement holding times. Mortality during the first 7 d after placement increased only when the preplacement holding time was extended to 72 h (p = 0.031). Similar to the 7 d results, chicks held for 72 h exhibited higher 0-35 day mortality compared to those held for 6 or 24 h (p = 0.028). Neither BW nor mortality was affected by incubation time treatment at 35 d after placement (p &gt; 0.05). It can be concluded that there were no significant differences in average BW and mortality, up to and including a 60-h holding time under thermal comfort conditions, but a 72-h preplacement holding time resulted in final BW and mortality being negatively affected. In addition, LIT tended to have a beneficial effect on BW and mortality compared to NIT when the preplacement holding time was shorter (6–24 h) but had a negative effect for extended holding times (48–72 h).

Background: We aimed to explore microvascular changes evaluated with optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) in patients undergoing epiretinal membrane (ERM) pars-plana vitrectomy (PPV) combined with intravitreal Ozurdex implantation, compared with standard PPV. (2) Methods: Prospective interventional analysis on 25 eyes undergoing PPV+Ozurdex (Group A) and 25 eyes undergoing PPV alone. Best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and OCTA parameters, such as vessel density (VD) of the superficial and deep capillary plexi (SCP and DCP) in the whole 6.4x6.4 mm and fovea area, were evaluated preoperatively and 3 months after surgery. (3) Results: Postoperative BCVA significantly improved in both groups. No cases of post-operative cystoid macular edema (CME) were reported in Group A vs. 2 eyes in Group B. In Group A we found a statistically significant increase of SCP’s VD in either the whole image (from 42.1±4.1 to 45.6±4.3 %, p=0.01) and the fovea image (from 38.5±7.5 to 41.7±4.2%, p=0.03). In Group B, we reported no significant variations in the SCP’s VDs. In the DCP, VD significantly increased only in the whole image in Group A. Stage 4 ERMs showed the greatest improvement in VD, especially in Group A. (4) Conclusions: In conclusion, intraoperative Ozurdex prompted a significant BCVA recover and limited the occurrence of postoperative CME compared to the standard procedure. Moreover, Ozurdex implant is associated with a better restoration of microvascular structure in either SCP and DCP.

Since the development of CBCT had been utilized in dentistry, the images of the CBCT can assist the surgeon to evaluate the anatomy carefully. Despite the value of the radiology evaluation, the implant procedures may require additional consideration rather than only evaluating the anatomical factors. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the predictability of using CBCT alone to plan for implant placement on the edentulous patient digitally CBCT images were analyzed by clinicians, measuring the ridge heights and widths of 4 selected implant sites in the maxillary and 2 selected implant sites in the mandibular arches for 91 patients planning for the implant-supported overdenture. (A total of 47 patients out of the 91 had completed the implant placement on the edentulous ridge, contributing to 55 upper and/or lower arches (136 dental implants). . Both predictabilities are low, implying the CBCT planning for implant placement on the edentulous ridge is not a good index and is insufficient to predict the surgical procedures as a solo method. The finding of this study indicates that digital planning by CBCT is insufficient to serve as an individual tool to predict implant procedures. Further information and evaluation must be considered for implant placement on the edentulous ridge.

Background - Mandibular flexion (MF) is a complex biomechanical phenomenon, which involves a deformation of the mandible, due mainly to the contraction of the masticatory muscles, and can have numerous clinical effects. The main aim of the current systematic review is to highlight the different factors that can increase MF, to help clinicians, identify patients to whom they should pay more attention. As a secondary outcome, we wanted to analyze the preventive measures and suitable techniques to be adopted to minimize the negative effects of this phenomenon on oral fixed rehabilitations. Methods - The review, which was carried out in accordance with the “Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses” (PRISMA) flowchart, was recorded in the “International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews” (PROSPERO). As research questions, “Patient/Population, Intervention, Comparison and Outcomes” (PICO) questions were employed. Using the ROBINS-I technique, the risk of bias in non-randomized clinical studies was evaluated. Results - The initial electronic search identified over 1300 potential articles, of which 54 studies were included in this systematic review. Information regarding the relationship between MF and individual factors, mandibular movements, impression-taking and fixed rehabilitations were obtained. Conclusions – The studies included in this systematic review showed that MF is greater during protrusive movements, in the posterior areas of the lower jaw, and in patients with brachial facial type, greater jaw length, small gonial angle and less density, length and bone surface of the symphysis. The biomechanical effects of mandibular flexion on fixed restorations are debated. Prospective clinical and radiological observational studies should be conducted to evaluate the potential short-, medium- and long-term consequences of MF.

Surface chemistry evaluation plays a crucial role in assessing the efficacy of chemical decontamination products for titanium implants. This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of chemical decontamination solutions in cleaning a contaminated dental implant surface and to evaluate the potential of combining Pluronic gel with hydrogen peroxide (NuBone®Clean) by evaluating pellicle disruption and re-formation on implant surfaces. In addition, ensuring safety with in- vitro and human testing protocols. X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS) was utilized for surface analysis. All the tested gels had some effect on the surface cleanness except for PrefGel®. Among the tested chemical decontamination candidates, NuBone®Clean demonstrated effectiveness in providing a cleaner titanium surface. Furthermore, none of the tested chemical agents exhibited any cytotoxic effects, and the safety assessment showed no adverse events. The results of this study highlight the significance of conducting comprehensive evaluations, encompassing safety and efficacy, before introducing new chemical agents for dental treatments. The findings suggest that NuBone®Clean shows potential as a chemical decontamination solution for implant surfaces. However, further investigation through randomized clinical trials is necessary. By adhering to rigorous testing protocols, the development of safe and efficient chemical decontamination strategies can be advanced, benefiting patients and promoting progress in the field of implant dentistry.

The aim of this study was to compare the screw removal torque of mini conical prosthetic components and straight trunnion of indexed morse taper implants, after mechanical cycling. The sample consisted of 40 implants and 20 mini-conical prosthetic components (MC group) and 20 straight trunnion components (ST group). Each group consisted of 10 specimens, with 2 implants in each, and cobalt-chromium metallic crowns were screwed into each sample. The components of the MC group received a torque of 20 N.cm with a digital torque wrench and after 10 minutes were retightened with the same value as the initial torque. The components of the ST group received a torque of 30 N.cm, with a digital torque wrench and after 10 minutes, they were retightened with the same value. The screws of the respective crowns of the two groups received a torque of 10 N.cm and after 10 minutes were retightened with the same value. Each group was subjected to the fatigue test in a mechanical cycler at 2.000.000 cycles, with a load of 250 N and frequency of 4 Hz. At the end of the fatigue test, the loosening torque of each screw of the specimens was measured through a digital torque wrench. The data were analyzed by two-way ANOVA and Tukey test. In both groups, there were loss of torque. The results showed no statistic difference between MC and ST groups.

In the last years, the Distribution Grid Operators (DGOs) assumed transition strategies of the distribution grids towards an active area associated with the "Smart Grids" concept. They are considering the use of Artificial Intelligence techniques, combined with advanced technologies and real-time remote communication solutions of the enormous data amounts, to develop smart solutions into the small size distribution grids, also called microgrids (μGs). These solutions will provide support for the DGOs to ensure an optimal operation of the technical infrastructure of the μGs. In this context, a bi-level methodology for solving the phase load balancing problem in the μGs with complex topologies and a high number of single-phase consumers, considering a clustering-based selection criterion of the consumers for placement of the switching devices, was proposed in the paper. A real μG from a rural area, with 114 consumers integrated into the Smart Metering System (SMS), belonging to the DGO from Romania, was considered in testing the proposed methodology. An implementation degree of 17.5%, corresponding to the phase load balancing equipment installed to only 20 consumers from the μG, led to a faster computational time with 43% and reducing the number of switching operations by 92% than in the case of a full implementation degree (100%). The performance indicators related to the unbalance factor and energy-saving used in the evaluation of the technical benefits highlighted the efficiency of the proposed methodology.

Cattle slurry is an important nitrogen source for maize on dairy farms. Slurry injection is an effective measure to reduce ammonia emissions after field application, but with higher risk of nitrous oxide emission than surface application. This study compared soil mineral nitrogen dynamics and nitrous oxide emissions with two ways of application. First, traditional injection at 25 cm spacing between rows followed by ploughing (called “non-placed slurry”), and second, injection using a new so-called goosefoot slurry injector that placed the slurry in ploughed soil as a c. 30 cm broad band at 10 cm depth below maize crop rows with 75 cm spacing (named “placed slurry”). Furthermore, the effect of treating slurry with the nitrification inhibitor 3,4-dimethylpyrazole phosphate (DMPP) in Vizura® was tested with both application methods. The field experiment was conducted on a sandy loam soil in a temperate climate. Both nitrous oxide emissions, and the dynamics of soil mineral nitrogen, were monitored for eight weeks after slurry application and seeding of maize using static chambers. The level of nitrous oxide emissions was higher with non-placed compared to placed slurry, mainly due to higher emissions during the first four weeks. That might be due to higher rates of nitrification rate and in turn stimulation of denitrification process. In both placed and non-placed slurry treatments, Vizura® caused higher soil ammonium concentrations and lower nitrate concentrations, particularly from 3 to 8 weeks after slurry application. The final level of soil nitrate was similar with and without the nitrification inhibitor, but higher with placed compared to non-placed slurry. Adding Vizura® to non-placed slurry reduced nitrous oxide emissions by 70 % when compared to placed slurry. Surprisingly, there was a non-significant trend towards higher cumulative emissions from placed slurry with the nitrification inhibitor compared to untreated slurry, which were due to higher emissions in the last part of the monitoring period (5-7 weeks after slurry application). Possibly degradation of the nitrification inhibitor, and nitrification activity inside the slurry band as the soil dried, promoted nitrous oxide emissions by this time. In summary, placement of untreated slurry in a broad band under maize seeds reduced nitrous oxide emissions compared to non-placed slurry with more soil contact. A comparable reduction was achieved by adding a nitrification inhibitor to non-placed slurry. The pattern of nitrous oxide emissions from placed slurry treated with the inhibitor was complex and requires more investigation.

Implant-supported-screw-retained prostheses are really popular. Some of the most frequent complications have been mechanical complications. These include abutment screw loosening or even screw fracture. Using an intermediate abutment can offer several advantages. However, little literature has been found regarding how this affects the mechanical behavior of dental restorations. This study focuses on understanding the mechanical behavior of implant-supported restorations with a transepithelial component compared to those with a direct implant-supported restoration. It was carried out by using the Finite Element Method (FEM) and was experi-mentally validated. The results showed that in the case of transepithelial-supported restoration, the prosthetic screw mounted over the transepithelial component suffers higher stress than the one screwed directly to the implant. After applying a cyclic fatigue load, it is experimentally proven that, in the transepithelial-supported restorations, the fuse changes from being the screw that goes to the implant, to being the upper one. As a conclusion we can say that the use of an intermediate abutment in dental restoration not only provides better protection to the rest of the dental restoration but also allows easier repair in the event of a fracture. This can potentially lead to more efficient procedures and improved patient outcomes.

Dental implant fracture is closely connected to the stress buildup surrounding the implant system during static loading. In areas where the cross section of the implant rapidly changes or where the geometry of the implant system has discontinuities, stress concentrations arise. Therefore, the implant's design is crucial in preventing early failure of the implant system, including fracture, screw loosening, and increased leakage, in addition to reducing stresses at the implant-abutment interface. In the current work, three-dimensional (3D) models of mechanically connected Ti6Al4V implant systems in various dimensions were constructed. Finite Element Analysis (FEA) was used to conduct a stress study of the created implants under actual acting forces static loading conditions in accordance with ISO 14801. In the created models, design elements including implant screw type, thickness, and taper angle of abutment were modified in order to increase the longevity of the implants. The results show that the equivalent stress level is dramatically reduced from 596.22 MPa to 212.72 MPa in the implant model, which exhibit more homogeneous stress pattern under static loading conditions. Furthermore, the relatively smoother stress transmission observed in this model holds promise for the development of new implants capable of withstanding the forces encountered in the oral environment.

In implantology, among the key choices, to obtain predictable results, it is essential to establish, on the basis of radiographic examinations, the bone site where to insert the implants; these selected locations must be identified first on the mucosa and then on the cortical bone. Surgical guides represent a valid aid especially in complex cases with more than 3 or 4 implants, whereas in single implant cases they are rarely used. This study evaluates the clinical precision with which the implant sites, on the patient's mucosa, are identified in surgical procedures planned without any templates. The verification of this precision is carried out through thermo-printed templates with radiopaque references which could however help the clinician to identify these sites in a simple, rapid and economical way.

The success of total hip arthroplasty depends on the experience of the surgeon, and one of the ways the surgeon currently determines the final implant insertion depth is to listen to the change in audible pitch of the hammering sound. We investigated the use of acoustic vibration emissions as a novel method for insertion quality assessment. A non-invasive contact microphone-based measurement system for insertion depth estimation, fixation and fracture detection was developed using a simplified in vitro bone/implant (n=5). 2583 audio recordings were analysed in vitro to obtain energy spectral density functions. Out of the four main resonant peaks under in vitro conditions, broach insertion depth statistically correlates to increasing 3rd and 4th peak frequencies. Degree of fixation was also observed as higher goodness of fit (0.26-0.78 vs. 0.12-0.51 between two broach sizes, the latter undersized). Finally, however, the moment of fracture could not be predicted. A cadaver in situ pilot study suggests comparable resonant frequencies in the same order of magnitudes with the bone model. Further understanding of the signal patterns are needed for an early warning system diagnostic system for imminent fractures, bone damage, improving accuracy and quality of future procedures.

The first treatments with dental implants had low success rates (75%). Nowadays, oral rehabilitation with titanium dental implants has a high success rate (95-98%). The success rate significantly increases due to increased scientific knowledge about osseointegration, changes in surgical techniques, and the development of implant surface treatments. Despite the high success rate of implants, no protocol defines the time for the prosthesis to be installed and loaded after surgery. This work compares a new dental implant's primary (mechanical) and secondary (osseointegration) stability. Dental implant with micro- and nano-roughness surface was placed in 24 patients with a minimum of 35 N.cm and a maximum of 60 N.cm. Primary stability was quantified with a torque wrench and Ostell Mentor. The secondary stability 45 and 60 days after surgery was measured with Ostell. The results showed no statistical difference in secondary stability at 45 and 60 days postoperatively among implants. The success rate of dental implants can be associated with the surface morphology with micro and nano-roughness and the shape of the fillets of the implant threads. When the manufacturer's guidelines are followed, it is possible to prosthetically rehabilitate the patient with an implant 45 days after surgery.

Background and Objectives: Mechanical and biological complications can lead to system fracture or screw loss on dental implants. Narrow and regular platforms have been used without a consensus about the effect of distance the abutment from the prosthetic platform margin. The aim of this study is to evaluate different insertion torques in the deformation of tri-channel platform connections through two- and three-dimensional measurements with micro-CT. Materials and Methods: 164 implants were divided into groups (platform diameter and type): 3.5, 3.75, and 4.3 mm NP (Narrow Platform), and 4.3 mm RP (Regular Platform). Each implant-platform group was then divided into four subgroups (n = 10) with different torques: T45 (45 Ncm), T80 (80 Ncm), T120 (120 Ncm) and T150 (150 Ncm). The implant-abutment-screw assemblies were scanned and the images obtained were analyzed. Results: A significant difference was observed for the linear and volume measures between the different platforms (p &lt;0.01) and the different implant insertion torques (p &lt;0.01). Qualitative analysis suggested higher deformation resistance for the 3.75 NP compared to the 3.5 NP, and RP was more resistant compared to the NP. Conclusions: The 0.25-mm increment in the implant platform did not increase the resistance to the applied insertion torques; the 4.3-mm implant was significantly stronger compared to the 3.5-mm implant and the proposed micro-CT analysis was considered valid for both 2D and 3D analyses of micro gaps, qualitatively and quantitatively.

The effect of the different dental implants positioning region on the stress performance of the implant-supported prosthesis is not yet clear. This study evaluated the dental treatment with six dental implants in three different models and three different occlusal loading conditions, in terms of the biomechanical response of implants, prosthetic screw and maxilla, using three-dimensional finite element analysis. The finite element models were modelled containing external hexagon implants, as well as a Cobalt-Chromium superstructure. Three types of loads were applied: in the area of ​​the central incisors, first premolar and in the second molars. For the finite element simulations, the von-Mises stress peaks in the implant and in the surrounding cortical bone were analyzed. All recorded results reported higher values ​​for the implant-supported prosthesis in group C compared to the groups A and B. The highest stress values, ​​regardless the evaluated model, was in the prosthesis in group C and in screws, the smallest were in group A.

Chlorhexidine digluconate (CHX) has shown the ability to significantly reduce inflammation and marginal bone loss (MBL) at 1-year follow-up but limited data exists regarding its long-term efficacy in peri implant stability. The objective was to compare the long-term effects of a placebo gel (16 patients in Group A) or a 0.20% CHX gel (15 patients in Group B) used at each previous surgical and prosthetic stage. Follow-ups were conducted in 2022, investigating by biological, radiological, clinical, mechanical evaluation the long-term effects. Data were statistically analyzed. The research achieved a 96.7% implant success rate over five years, but 41.9% of patients didn't attend annual oral hygiene check-ups. The average MBL was 1.04 ± 0.39 mm, with no significant differences between the two groups. Notably, patients who attended regular periodontal check-ups experienced significantly less MBL than those who didn't (p &lt;0.05). At five years, the effects of CHX were reduced, with both groups showing moderate bone loss. The results suggest early disinfection could enhance both short and long-term outcomes. In fact, patient with initial minor MBL preserve this advantage also at 5 years of follow-up. Additionally, the data underscore the importance of annual check-ups in early detection and management of biological and mechanical complications.

Growth-preserving instrumentation techniques are utilized in early-onset scoliosis (EOS) cases requiring surgical intervention. Shilla technique corrects the deformity and may reduce the need for surgical treatment with its growth-directing effect. As with other techniques, various prob-lems can be encountered following the administration of the Shilla technique. The aim of this study was to examine the effect of complications encountered with Shilla treatment on correction and growth. Sixteen patients with a follow-up period of at least 1 year who received Shilla growth guidance for EOS were included in the study. No complications occurred in 50% cases and no unplanned surgery was required. Of the remaining 8 patients with postoperative im-plant-related complications (50%), 6 (37.5%) required unplanned surgery; this consequently caused implant failure in the proximal region in 5 cases (31.25%) and deep tissue infection around the implant in 1 case (6.25%). Deformity correction, spine length, and quality-of-life scores significantly improved in EOS through Shilla growth guidance. Although implant-related com-plications were observed and related unplanned surgeries were required with Shilla growth guidance in our patients, these complications did not have a significant negative effect on correc-tion and spine growth.

The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of two antiglaucoma procedures, namely trabeculectomy and Ex-PRESS mini-shunt insertion on the biomechanical properties of the cornea. This is a prospective study. Thirty patients (30 eyes) were included in the study. Nineteen eyes had an Ex-PRESS shunt inserted (Group 1) and 11 had trabeculectomy (Group 2). The examination time points for both groups were 1 to 3 weeks preoperatively and at month 1, 6 and 12 postoperatively. Corneal biomechanical properties [corneal hysteresis (CH) corneal resistance factor (CRF)] were measured with the Ocular Response Analyzer. In group 1, CH was significantly increased at 6 and 12 months compared to baseline values. Corneal hysteresis was also higher at 1 month postoperatively but this increase did not reach statistical significance. In group 2, the CH was significantly increased at all time points compared to the preoperative values. CRF decreased at all time points postoperatively compared to the preoperative values in both groups. The difference (preoperative values to postoperative values at all time points) of the CH and CRF between the two groups was also compared and no significant differences were detected between the two surgical techniques. Trabeculectomy and the EX-PRESS mini-shunt insertion alter significantly the corneal biomechanical properties as a result of the surgical trauma and the presence of the shunt in the corneal periphery. When compared between them they affect the corneal biomechanical properties in a similar way.

Cervical fusion has been a standard procedure for treating the abnormalities associated with the cervical spine. However, the reliability of anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) has become arguable due to its adverse effects on the biomechanics of adjacent segments. One of the drawbacks associated with ACDF is adjacent segment degeneration (ASD) which has served as the base for the development of dynamic stabilization systems (DSS) and total disc replacement (TDR) devices for cervical spine. However, the hybrid surgical technique has also gained popularity recently but their effect on the biomechanics of cervical spine is not well researched. Thus, the objective of this FE study was to draw the comparison among single, bi-level and hybrid surgery with DCI implant with traditional fusion. Reduction in range of motion (ROM) for all the implanted models was observed for all the motions except extension, compared to intact model. The maximum increase in ROM of 42% was observed at C5-C6 level in Hybrid-DCI model. The maximum increase in adjacent segment’s ROM of 8.7% was observed in multilevel fusion model. The maximum von Mises stress in the implant was highest for the multilevel DCI model. Our study also showed that the shape of DCI implant permits flexion/extension relatively more compared to lateral bending and axial rotation.

Variations in the implant thread shape and occlusal load behavior may result in significant changes in the biological and mechanical properties of dental implants and surrounding bone tissue. Most previous studies consider a single implant thread design, an isotropic bone structure, and a static occlusal load. However, the effects of different thread designs, bone material properties, and loading conditions are important concerns in clinical practice. Accordingly, the present study performs Finite Element Analysis (FEA) simulations to investigate the static, quasi-static and dynamic response of the implant and implanted bone material under various thread designs and occlusal loading directions (buccal-lingual, mesiodistal and apical). The simulations focus specifically on the von Mises stress, displacement, shear stress, compressive stress and tensile stress within the implant and the surrounding bone. The results show that the thread design and occlusal loading rate have a significant effect on the stress distribution and deformation of the implant and bone structure during clinical applications. Overall, the results provide a useful insight into the design of enhanced dental implants for an improved load transfer efficiency and success rate.

This work explores state-of-the-art approaches for stabilizing an inverted pendulum on a cart system, which has been used for over a century to demonstrate ideas in nonlinear and linear control theory, owing to its simple practical implementation yet complex system dynamics. We introduce energy-based control methods and propose a simple linear controller to quickly force the system to the downward equilibrium before swing-up. By constraining the system to start from a stable equilibrium configuration, the problem of global stability is reduced to ensuring that the system can follow all heteroclinic orbits that start very close to the downward equilibrium. Multiple Lyapunov functions are employed to ensure non-zero tracking, increasing the system's domain of attraction than is achieved by traditional controllers based on a single Lyapunov function. We stabilize our inverted pendulum system in the upright configuration through pole placement using a linear quadratic regulator known for fast settling times and smooth system response and through sliding mode controllers known for their robustness to disturbances and model uncertainties. While sliding mode controllers exhibit faster stabilization of the pendulum angle, they fail to stabilize the cart position in a reasonable amount of time. The paper concludes by suggesting various controller techniques that can enhance the swing-up and stabilization controller architectures, leaving room for future exploration. To facilitate further research and education, an open-source MATLAB simulation code is provided, encapsulating the system dynamics and controller designs. This resource offers flexibility for customization, making it a valuable tool for both researchers and educators working with inverted pendulum systems.

Both types of surgical guides – with and without metal sleeves are founded beneficial in clinical studies. The aim of this in vitro study was to compare time of surgical procedure in dental implantology depending of used type of the surgical guide. Ten three dimensional (3D) printed models of lower jaws were prepared based on complete virtual model of patient clinical conditions with missing teeth 37, 46 and 47. Five of this models were used for implant sites preparation performed with use of surgical guide without metal sleeves and dedicated surgical kit, and next five were used for the same procedure performed with surgical guide with metal sleeves and dedicated surgical kit. Time of implant site preparation were measured and noted. Statistical analysis was performed using Student’s t test for independent samples. Difference of time in both groups were founded as statistically significant (t=-9.94; df =28; p=0.0000). Type of surgical guide is important factor which can impact on time of implant site preparation and all surgical procedure.

The article reports on a patient who required a cranial protection system.Using additive manufacturing techniques and surgical planning with the help of bio-models, a patient-specific bone implant solution was proposed that allows aesthetic restoration of the affected area and provides an adequate level of protection. In addition, through a comparative analysis with finite elements, the mechanical response to external actions of the medical device, printed with two materials: polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) and polyether-ether-ketone (PEEK), is simulated. The tested materials have recognized biocompatibility properties, but their costs on the market differ significantly. The results obtained demonstrate the similarities in the responses of both materials. It offers the possibility that low-income people can access these devices, guaranteeing adequate biomechanical safety, considering that PMMA is a much cheaper material than PEEK.

Peri-implant bone resorption has been reported around some implants after loading and this could create problems for the long-term stability of peri-implant soft and hard tissues. The causes are still not completely known, but a relevant importance could be assumed by the presence of a bacterial contamination at the micro-gap level of the implant-abutment junction. In this regard, external and internal implant-abutment assemblies have been shown to be much more permeable to bacterial colonization than Cone-Morse or conical connections. A subcrestal implant placement could have aesthetic advantages allowing a better prosthetic emergence profile. In literature controversial experimental and clinical results have been reported about bone resorption around implants placed equicrestally and subcrestally. Interestingly, Finite Element Analysis (FEA) studies revealed to be extremely useful for assessing the peri-implant bone strain and stress. Thus, the aim of this study was a FEA evaluation of implants with a Cone-Morse implant-abutment assembly (Implacil De Bortoli, São Paulo, Brazil) inserted into a bone block model (width: 10 mm, vertical height: 17.5 mm, thickness of the cortical area: 1.5 mm) mimicking equicrestal and subcrestal placements (1 and 2 mm). The results demonstrated that maximum stresses were observed within the cortical bone around the equicrestally placed implants, the lowest in the implant placed 2-mm subcrestally and intermediate stresses within the implant placed 1-mm subcrestally. Cortical bone was more stressed under lateral loads than axial loads. In conclusion, this FEA study suggested that implant placement at -1 mm could be recommended.

Aim: the purpose of the present prospective, case series study were to report implant survival rate and marginal bone remodeling expected five years after loading using dental implants placed in in the daily practice. Material and Methods: this research was designed as an open-cohort, prospective case series study. Any completely or partially edentulous patients scheduled to receive at least one bone leve were considered eligible for this study. Primary outcomes were: cumulative implant (ISR) and prosthetic (PSR) survival rates, and any complications experienced up the five years follow-up. Secondary outcomes were: marginal bone remodeling, implant insertion torque, implant stability quotient (ISQ), and thickness of gingival biotype. Results: ninety consecutive patients (34 males and 56 females; mean age 53.2±15.4 years; range of 24–81 years), 243 implants were placed and followed for at least five years after loading (mean of 65.4±3.1 months; range of 60–72 months). The mean implant insertion torque was 42.9±4.8 Ncm (range from 15 to 45 Ncm). Overall, 83.5% of the implants (n=203) were placed with an insertion torque between 35 and 45 Ncm. At the one year follow-up, no drop-outs were recorded, but 17 patients (18.9%) with 18 restorations (12.6%) delivered on 34 implants (14%) were lost at the five years examination. At the five-year examination, six implants failed in six patients, resulting in a cumulative ISR of 97.5%. At the five-year follow-up, four prostheses failed (2.8%) resulting in a cumulative PSR of 97.2%. At the five-year examination, five complications were reported by five different patients, resulting in a prosthetic success rate of 96.5%, measured at patient level. Five years after loading, mean MBL was 0.41 ± 0.30 mm (95% CI: 0.26–0.34). Difference from the one year data was 0.04 ± 0.19 mm (95% CI: 0.01–0.07). The mean ISQ value at implant placement was 71.6 ± 5.5 (range of 45–88). Six months later, the mean ISQ was 76.7 ± 4.4 (range of 66–89). The difference was statistically significant (P=0.0001). Statistically significant higher MBL was found for smokers, and patient with thin gingival biotype. Conclusions: High implant survival and success rates could be expected with stable marginal bone remodeling up to five years after loading. Smoking and thin tissue biotype were the most important variabilities associated with higher MBL. Further research are needed to confirm these results.

Background: By using outcome prediction scores, it is possible to distinguish between good and poor performers with cochlear implants (CI) after CI implantation. The reasons for poor performance, despite good basic conditions, can be manifold. On the one hand, the postoperative fitting may be inadequate; on the other, neurophysiological disease processes may impair speech understanding with a CI. These disease processes are not yet fully understood. In acoustics, it is known that the auditory brainstem responses (ABR) and their latencies and amplitudes allow differential diagnosis based on reference values for normal-hearing individuals. The aim of this study was to provide reference values for electrically evoked brainstem responses (EABRs) in terms of rate-dependent latencies and amplitudes. Methods: 20 experienced adult CI recipients with a predicted and measured good postoperative word recognition score were recruited from the clinic’s patient pool. In the same stimulation mode and intensity we measured latencies and interpeak-latencies of EABRs and electrically evoked compound action potentials (ECAPs). With a defined supra-threshold stimulation intensity above the individual ECAP threshold, we applied stimulation at several rates between 11 and 91 stimuli per second. Results: We found rate dependences for EABR latency t3 and t5 in the order of 0.19 ms and 0.37 ms respectively, while ECAP was not affected by rate. Correspondingly, the interpeak intervalls’ rate dependences for t5-t1, t5-t3 and t3-t1 were of the order of 0.37 ms, 0.18 ms and 0.19 ms. Comparing the EABR amplitudes between the stimulation rates 11/s and 81/s, we found that at 81/s the amplitudes were significantly reduced down: to 73% for A3 and 81% for A5. These rate dependences of latency and amplitude in EABR have characteristics comparable to those of acoustic ABR. Conclusions: These data may serve to provide reference values for EABR and ECAP latencies, interpeak intervals and amplitudes with respect to stimulation rate. Altered response patterns of ECAPs and EABRs to normalised stimulation modes could be used in the future to describe and classify neuropathological processes in a better-differentiated way.

Background: To compare the loss of preload in absence of loading and after a fixed number of ideal masticatory cycles in two different connection systems using all-on-four prosthetic model. Methods: Two equal models of an edentulous mandible rehabilitated with all-on-four technique with two types of abutment system (MUA and OT-Bridge) supporting a hybrid prosthesis, were used. Initial torque values of the prosthetic fixing screw, after ten minutes from initial screw tightening and after 400000 masticatory cycles were registered using a mechanical torque gauge. Differences between initial and final torque values were reported for each anchoring system and the two systems were finally compared. Results: No statistically significant differences regarding the loss of preload between MUA and OT-Bridge system were found after 400000 masticatory cycles; however, in MUA system it was found between anterior and posterior implant screws. A significant difference in preload loss was found only for MUA system comparing the initial screw torque to that measured after 10 minutes from the tightening in absence of cyclic loadings. Conclusions: MUA and OT-Bridge are reliable prosthetic anchoring systems able to tolerate repeated masticatory cycles also on distal cantilever in all-on-four rehabilitation model without any significant loss of preload in screw tightening

We report the case of a 61-year-old woman who was referred to the Oral Surgery and Implantology Unit of the University Hospitals of Geneva to take care edentulous sites after dental avulsions of teeth 11 and 21 following traumatic shock due to endotracheal intubation under general anaesthesia. The dental history revealed that the patient had a history of generalized chronic periodontitis that had been treated several years earlier. Treatment consisted, for the first time to our knowledge, of immediate insertion of implants at sites 11 and 21 with simultaneous bone augmentation in a single surgical procedure and immediate restorations.