Search Results (254)

Traditional map style transfer methods are mostly based on GAN, which are either overly artistic at the expense of conveying information, or insufficiently aesthetic by simply changing the color scheme of the map image. These methods often struggle to balance style transfer with semantic preservation and lack consistency in their transfer effects. In recent years, diffusion models have made significant progress in the field of image processing and have shown great potential in image-style transfer tasks. Inspired by these advances, this paper presents a method for transferring real-world 3D scenes to a cartoon style without the need for additional input condition guidance. The method combines pre-trained LDM with LoRA models to achieve stable and high-quality style infusion. By integrating DDIM Inversion, ControlNet, and MultiDiffusion strategies, it achieves the cartoon style transfer of real-world 3D scenes through initial noise control, detail redrawing, and global coordination. Qualitative and quantitative analyses, as well as user studies, indicate that our method effectively injects a cartoon style while preserving the semantic content of the real-world 3D scene, maintaining a high degree of consistency in style transfer. This paper offers a new perspective for map style transfer. Full article

Orthognathic surgery (OS) is a complex procedure commonly used to treat dentofacial deformities (DFDs). These conditions, related to jaw position or size and often involving malocclusion, affect approximately 15% of the population. Due to the complexity of OS, accurate planning is essential. Digital assessment using computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) tools enhances surgical predictability. However, limitations in soft tissue simulation often require surgeon input to optimize aesthetic results and minimize surgical impact. This study aimed to evaluate the accuracy of virtual surgery planning (VSP) by analyzing the relationship between planning deviations and surgical satisfaction. A single-center, retrospective study was conducted on 16 patients who underwent OS at San Pedro University Hospital of La Rioja. VSP was based on CT scans using Dolphin Imaging software (v12.0, Patterson Dental, St. Paul, MN, USA) and surgeries were guided by VSP-designed occlusal splints. Outcomes were assessed using the Orthognathic Quality of Life (OQOL) questionnaire and deviations were measured through pre- and postoperative imaging. The results showed high satisfaction scores and good overall outcomes, despite moderate deviations from the virtual plan in many cases, particularly among Class II patients. A total of 63% of patients required VSP modifications due to poor soft tissue fitting, with 72% of these being Class II DFDs. Most deviations involved less maxillary advancement than planned, while maintaining optimal occlusion. This suggests that VSP may overestimate advancement needs, especially in Class II cases. No significant differences in satisfaction were observed between patients with low (<2 mm) and high (>2 mm) deviations. These findings support the use of VSP as a valuable planning tool for OS. However, surgeon experience remains essential, especially in managing soft tissue behavior. Improvements in soft tissue prediction are needed to enhance accuracy, particularly for Class II DFDs. Full article

Background: The rising demand for aesthetic dental treatments has spurred interest in peroxide-free color correctors as alternatives to traditional hydrogen peroxide formulations, which are associated with tooth sensitivity and potential enamel demineralization. This systematic review evaluates the whitening efficacy and safety profile of hydrogen peroxide-free color corrector (HPFCC) products, focusing on color change metrics, enamel and dentin integrity, and adverse effects. Methods: Following PRISMA guidelines, we searched PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science throughout January 2025 for randomized controlled trials, observational studies, and in vitro experiments comparing HPFCC to placebo or peroxide-based agents. The data extraction covered study design, sample characteristics, intervention details, shade improvement (ΔE00 or CIE Lab), enamel/dentin mechanical properties (microhardness, roughness, elastic modulus), and incidence of sensitivity or tissue irritation. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane tool for clinical studies and the QUIN tool for in vitro research. Results: Six studies (n = 20–80 samples or subjects) met the inclusion criteria. In vitro, HPFCC achieved mean ΔE00 values of 3.5 (bovine incisors; n = 80) and 2.8 (human molars; n = 20), versus up to 8.9 for carbamide peroxide (p < 0.01). Across studies, HPFCC achieved a mean ΔE00 of 2.8–3.5 surpassing the perceptibility threshold of 2.7 and approaching the clinical acceptability benchmark of 3.3. Surface microhardness increased by 12.9 ± 11.7 VHN with HPFCC (p < 0.001), and ultramicrohardness rose by 110 VHN over 56 days in prolonged use studies. No significant enamel erosion or dentin roughness changes were observed, and the sensitivity incidence remained below 3%. Conclusions: These findings derive from one clinical trial (n = 60) and five in vitro studies (n = 20–80), encompassing violet-pigment serums and gels with differing concentrations. Due to heterogeneity in designs, formulations, and outcome measures, we conducted a narrative synthesis rather than a meta-analysis. Although HPFCC ΔE00 values were lower than those of carbamide peroxide, they consistently exceeded perceptibility thresholds while maintaining enamel integrity and causing sensitivity in fewer than 3% of subjects, supporting HPFCCs as moderate but safe alternatives for young patients. Full article

Water scarcity challenges floriculture, which depends on quality irrigation for ornamental value. This study assessed short-term salinity tolerance in eight Asteraceae species by measuring physiological (proline levels, antioxidant enzyme activity) and morphological (plant height, flower number, and size) responses. Plants were irrigated with 0, 50, 100, or 300 mM NaCl for 10 days. Salinity significantly enhanced proline content and the activity of key antioxidant enzymes (catalase, peroxidase, and ascorbate peroxidase), reflecting the activation of stress defense mechanisms. However, these defenses failed to fully protect reproductive organs. Flower number and size were consistently more sensitive to salinity than vegetative traits, with significant reductions observed even at 50 mM NaCl. Responses varied between species, with Zinnia elegans and Calendula officinalis exhibiting pronounced sensitivity to salinity, whereas Tagetes patula showed relative tolerance, particularly under moderate stress conditions. The results show that flower structures are more vulnerable to ionic and osmotic disturbances than vegetative tissues, likely due to their higher metabolic demands and developmental sensitivity. Their heightened vulnerability underscores the need to prioritize reproductive performance when evaluating stress tolerance. Incorporating these traits into breeding programs is essential for developing salt-tolerant floriculture species that maintain aesthetic quality under limited water availability. Full article

Curcuma spp. is a popular ornamental crop valued for its vibrant appearance and suitability for both regular and off-season production. As global emphasis on freshwater conservation increases and with a demand for compact potted plants, reducing water use while maintaining high aesthetic quality presents a key challenge for horticulturists. Potassium silicate (PS) has been proposed as a foliar spray to alleviate plant water stress. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of PS on growth, ornamental traits, and photosynthetic parameters of off-season potted Curcuma cv. ‘Jasmine Pink’ under deficit irrigation (DI). Plants were subjected to three treatments in a completely randomized design: 100% crop evapotranspiration (ETc), 50% ETc, and 50% ETc with 1000 ppm PS (weekly sprayed on leaves for 11 weeks). Both DI treatments (50% ETc and 50% ETc + PS) reduced plant height by 7.39% and 9.17%, leaf number by 16.99% and 7.03%, and total biomass by 21.13% and 20.58%, respectively, compared to 100% ETc. Notably, under DI, PS-treated plants maintained several parameters equivalent to the 100% ETc treatment, including flower bud emergence, blooming period, green bract number, effective quantum yield of PSII (ΔF/Fm′), and electron transport rate (ETR). In addition, PS application increased leaf area by 8.11% and compactness index by 9.80% relative to untreated plants. Photosynthetic rate, ΔF/Fm′, and ETR increased by 31.52%, 13.63%, and 9.93%, while non-photochemical quenching decreased by 16.51% under water-limited conditions. These findings demonstrate that integrating deficit irrigation with PS foliar application can enhance water use efficiency and maintain ornamental quality in off-season potted Curcuma, promoting sustainable water management in horticulture. Full article

This study investigates the effects of repeated mechanical recycling on the structural, thermal, mechanical, and aesthetic properties of poly(butylene succinate) (PBS), a commercially available bio-based and biodegradable aliphatic polyester. PBS production scraps were subjected to five consecutive recycling cycles through semi-industrial extrusion compounding followed by injection molding to simulate realistic mechanical reprocessing conditions. Melt mass-flow rate (MFR) analysis revealed a progressive increase in melt fluidity. Initially, the trend of viscosity followed the melt flow rate; however, increasing the reprocessing number (up to 5) resulted in a partial recovery of viscosity, which was caused by chain branching mechanisms. The phenomenon was also confirmed by data of molecular weight evaluation. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) confirmed the thermal stability of the polymer, with minimal shifts in glass transition, crystallization, and degradation temperatures during the reprocessing cycles. Tensile tests revealed a slight reduction in strength and stiffness, but an increase in elongation at break, indicating improved ductility. Impact resistance declined moderately from 8.7 to 7.3 kJ/m² upon reprocessing; however, it exhibited a pronounced reduction to 1.8 kJ/m² at −50 °C, reflecting brittle behavior under sub-ambient conditions. Despite these variations, PBS maintained excellent color stability (ΔE < 1), ensuring aesthetic consistency while retaining good mechanical and thermal properties. Full article

Background and Clinical Significance: Prosthetic rehabilitation in the aesthetic zone of periodontally compromised patients presents a complex clinical challenge, requiring a careful coordination of aesthetic, functional, and biological demands. This case highlights the benefits of digital dentistry, interdisciplinary collaboration, and regular maintenance in achieving long-term success in complex rehabilitations of periodontally compromised patients. Case Presentation: This case report describes the digital minimally invasive rehabilitation of a 39-year-old male patient with Stage III periodontitis, occlusal discrepancies, tooth mobility, and an interincisal diastema. A fully digital workflow—including intraoral scanning, aesthetic previewing, and mandibular motion analysis—was employed to guide diagnosis, treatment planning, and prosthetic execution. Conservative tooth preparations using a biologically oriented approach (BOPT) were combined with customised provisional restorations to support soft tissue conditioning and functional control throughout the provisional phases. Mandibular motion tracking facilitated the design of a personalised anterior guidance to improve occlusion and correct the deep bite. The interincisal diastema was initially maintained then closed during the advanced phase of treatment based on aesthetic simulations and patient preference. One unplanned endodontic treatment was required during the provisional phase, but no other complications occurred. Conclusions: At the four-year follow-up, the patient demonstrated stable periodontal and occlusal conditions, improved clinical indices, and high satisfaction with the aesthetic outcome. Full article

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

This study investigates the impact of mild steaming (105 °C and 120 °C for 12 h) on the colour characteristics and chemical stability of beech wood (Fagus sylvatica L.) during natural indoor ageing. Untreated and steamed samples of mature wood and false heartwood were analysed for CIELAB and CIELCh colour parameters (L*, a*, b*, C*, h°) and chemical changes using ATR-FTIR spectroscopy. Steaming resulted in a significant decrease in lightness (L*) and increased a*, b*, and C* values, producing darker and more saturated reddish-brown tones. It also reduced the visual differences between mature wood and false heartwood, enhancing colour uniformity. During the light-induced ageing period, steamed wood—particularly at 105 °C—exhibited improved colour stability, maintaining chroma and hue more effectively than untreated samples. Statistically significant interaction effects between treatment, time, and tissue type revealed that the ageing-related colour changes were jointly influenced by thermal modification and the anatomical characteristics of the wood. In the FTIR spectra, the most pronounced changes were observed in the absorption bands of the aromatic skeleton and carbonyl groups (1504 and 1732 cm⁻¹). These findings confirm that mild steaming alters the original aesthetic properties and colour of beech wood when exposed to an indoor environment. Full article

This study explores the differences in audience behavior between virtual museums and physical museums. The replica-based virtual museum (RVM) was developed to replicate the exhibit layout of physical museums and support multi-user online visits. The study introduces the RVM-Interaction (RVM-I), which incorporates interactive features to enhance user engagement. In the experiment, 24 participants experienced a physical museum (PM), RVM, RVM-I, and a traditional PC-based virtual museum, with their impressions and behavioral patterns recorded. The results indicate no significant differences between RVM and PM in terms of satisfaction, immersion, aesthetic experience, and social interaction. RVM-I significantly enhanced the participants’ experience through its interactive capabilities. Path analysis shows that both RVM and RVM-I improved audience efficiency, with RVM-I transforming the circumferential, space-based art appreciation found in PM and RVM into a stationary, space-based form, making RVM-I more engaging than RVM. These findings offer valuable insights for the design and development of virtual museum experiences that maintain spatial fidelity to physical exhibitions while enhancing user engagement through interactivity. Full article

Background: Intercostal artery perforator (ICAP) flaps are a reliable option for volume replacement in breast-conserving surgery (BCS), particularly for lower pole defects. However, limited flap volume may reduce their applicability in selected patients. Autologous fat grafting has been proposed to enhance both volume and aesthetic outcomes. Methods: This retrospective study evaluated 10 patients undergoing BCS with immediate reconstruction using fat-graft-augmented ICAP flaps. Nine anterior ICAP (AICAP) flaps and one lateral ICAP (LICAP) flap were employed. The outcomes included flap viability, complications, and aesthetic results over a 6-month follow-up. Results: Partial flap resorption occurred in 2 patients (20%), both of whom were active smokers. No cases of skin necrosis were observed. Fat grafting volumes ranged from 20 to 60 cc. Aesthetic outcomes were satisfactory, with good restoration of the breast contour and stable integration of the flap and grafted fat. Conclusions: The combined use of ICAP flaps and autologous fat grafting is a feasible and effective technique for immediate reconstruction after BCS. It allows volume enhancement, maintains natural contour, and shows low complication rates in properly selected patients. Smoking remains a significant risk factor. Full article

With rapid global urbanization, glass curtain wall buildings have been widely adopted due to aesthetics and natural lighting. However, during summer time, intense solar radiation leads to significant indoor heat gain, which adversely affect thermal comfort and energy efficiency. The conventional air conditioning systems are typically equipped with a cooling capacity sufficient to maintain an indoor air temperature at the design values specified in the Design standard for energy efficiency of public buildings, which fails to account for the effects of radiation temperature, potentially resulting in reduced thermal comfort and energy inefficiency. By integrating the Thermal Comfort Tool to calculate the PMV index, this study evaluates the affection of solar heat gain on indoor occupants’ thermal comfort and proposes an optimized air temperature control strategy to realize thermal comfort. Based on the dynamic air temperature strategy, an energy consumption model is developed to evaluate the affection of solar radiation on energy consumption for glass curtain wall buildings based on the PMV index. The synergistic effects of shading measures are then evaluated. This study conducts simulation analysis using an office building with a glass curtain wall located in Beijing as a case study. When accounting for radiant heat gain, a significant portion of the time (53.89%) fall outside the thermal comfort range, even when the air conditioning is set to the designated temperature. To maintain thermal comfort, the air conditioning temperature must be lowered by 1.4–3.5 °C, resulting in a 28.08% increase in energy consumption. To address this issue, this study finds that installing interior shading can reduce radiant heat gain. Under the same thermal comfort conditions, the required air temperature reduction is only 0.8–2.1 °C, leading to a 24.26% reduction in energy consumption compared to the case without interior shading. Full article

In the face of accelerating urbanization and the growing demand for environmentally responsible materials and designs, this study presents the development and implementation of a modular parklet demonstrator fabricated using dual-material 3D printing. The structure integrates polylactic acid (PLA) and wood-filled PLA (wood/PLA), combining the mechanical robustness of pure PLA in the core with the tactile and aesthetic appeal of wood-based biocomposite on the surface. The newly developed dual-nozzle 3D printing approach enabled precise spatial control over material distribution, optimizing both structural integrity and sustainability. A comprehensive evaluation was conducted for developed filaments and printed materials, including optical microscopy, coupled thermogravimetry analysis and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (TG/FTIR), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and chemical and mechanical resistance testing. Results revealed distinct thermal behaviors and degradation pathways between filaments and printed parts composed of PLA and PLA/wood. The biocomposite exhibited slightly increased sensitivity to aggressive chemical environments and mechanical wear, dual-material prints maintained high thermal stability and interlayer adhesion. The 3D-printed demonstrator bench and stools were successfully deployed in public spaces as a functional urban intervention. This work demonstrates the feasibility and advantages of using biocomposite materials and dual-head 3D printing for the rapid, local, and sustainable fabrication of small-scale urban infrastructure. Full article

As a pivotal node in urban spatial restructuring, the evolution of three-dimensional (3D) compactness in high-speed rail station areas is crucial for sustainable development. However, the existing research predominantly focuses on two-dimensional forms and lacks dynamic analysis and models that are adaptable to complex terrains. This study develops an enhanced 3D gravitational model that integrates satellite imagery and Gaode building data to quantify the spatiotemporal heterogeneity and carry out multidimensional classification of the compactness across 16 stations in the Chengdu-Chongqing urban agglomeration (2015–2025), with driving factors being identified through correlation and regression analyses. The key findings reveal the following: (1) The mean compactness increased by 22.41%, exhibiting nonlinear heterogeneity characterized by high initial values with low growth rates versus low initial values with high growth rates. Spatially, the southern line evolved from a dual-core pattern at the terminals to multigradient development, while the northern line maintained stable growth despite gradient discontinuities. These spatial differentiations resulted from synergistic effects of urban sizes (station hierarchy), terrain features, administrative divisions, and the line affiliation. (2) The built-up land area (under equal study conditions) and vertical development emerged as key drivers, with the building height diversity demonstrating dual spatial effects (enhancing both compactness and aesthetic richness). Complex terrain characteristics were found to promote clustered urban land use and compact efficiency during initial development phases. This study proposes a planning framework that integrates morphology-adaptive zoning control, ecology-responsive compactness principles, and urban–rural integrated settlement patterns, providing quantitative tools for mountainous station development. These findings offer theoretical and practical support for achieving urban sustainability goals and meeting the 3D compactness and transit-oriented development requirements in territorial spatial planning. Full article

Maintaining the cleanliness of orthodontic aligners is crucial for oral hygiene and preserving the optical properties of aligners. In this randomized clinical trial, we compared the effectiveness of different cleaning methods for the maintenance of Invisalign clear aligners. Twelve adult patients received five aligners, each worn for 10 days. The aligners were divided based on the cleaning method: tooth brushing with whitening toothpaste, vinegar, Fittydent Super Cleansing Tablets, Invisalign cleaning crystals, and only water. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to detect surface morphology changes; color changes (ΔE) were evaluated using a spectrophotometer. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) with a diamond hemisphere was used to study the aligners’ chemical compositions. Nanoindentation testing was used to assess changes in the elastic modulus. SEM confirmed the effectiveness of Invisalign cleaning crystals in maintaining cleanliness, revealing a surface similar to that of the control group with no adverse effects. Color stability analysis revealed significant ΔE value differences; whitening toothpaste had significantly lower ΔE values than water and Invisalign cleaning crystals. The elastic modulus and FTIR analyses indicated no significant differences between the cleaning methods. Therefore, Invisalign cleaning crystals and whitening toothpaste are safe for aligner maintenance, showing successful and aesthetically pleasing results. Full article