Search Results (379)

Background: Gorlin–Goltz syndrome (GGS), also known as basal cell nevus syndrome or nevoid basal cell carcinoma syndrome, is a rare genetic disorder caused by mutations in the PTCH1, PTCH2, or SUFU genes, leading to an increased risk of neoplasms. Craniofacial anomalies are among the most common features of GGS. This paper aimed to highlight the similarities and differences in clinical presentation across different ages and to emphasize the importance of including all family members in the diagnostic process. The diagnosis can often be initiated by a dentist through routine radiographic imaging. Case Presentation: We present a 17-year longitudinal follow-up of a male patient with recurrent multiple odontogenic keratocysts and other manifestations consistent with GGS. Nearly 20 years later, the patient’s mother presented with similar clinical features suggestive of GGS. Diagnostic imaging, including contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT), cone-beam CT, magnetic resonance imaging, and orthopantomography, was performed, and the diagnosis was confirmed through genetic testing. Interdisciplinary management included age-appropriate surgical and dermatological treatments tailored to lesion severity. Conclusions: Given the frequent involvement of the stomatognathic system in GGS, dentists play a critical role in early detection and referral. Comprehensive family-based screening is essential for timely diagnosis, improved monitoring, and effective management of this multisystem disorder. Full article

Dens invaginatus is a developmental dental anomaly characterized by the infolding of the enamel organ into the dental papilla during early odontogenesis. This process leads to a broad spectrum of anatomical variations, ranging from minor enamel-lined pits confined to the crown to deep invaginations extending through the root, occasionally communicating with periodontal or periapical tissues. The internal complexity of affected teeth presents diagnostic and therapeutic challenges, particularly in severe forms that mimic root canal systems or are associated with pulpal or periapical pathology. Maxillary lateral incisors are most frequently affected, likely due to their unique developmental timeline and morphological susceptibility. Although various classification systems have been proposed, Oehlers’ classification remains the most clinically relevant due to its simplicity and correlation with treatment complexity. Recent advances in diagnostic imaging, especially cone beam computed tomography (CBCT), have revolutionized the identification and classification of these anomalies. CBCT-based adaptations of Oehlers’ classification allow for the precise assessment of invagination extent and pulpal involvement, facilitating improved treatment planning. Contemporary therapeutic strategies now include calcium-silicate-based cement sealing materials, endodontic microsurgery for inaccessible anatomy, and regenerative endodontic procedures for immature teeth with necrotic pulps. Emerging developments in artificial intelligence, genetic research, and tissue engineering promise to further refine diagnostic capabilities and treatment options. Early detection remains critical to prevent complications such as pulpal necrosis or apical disease. A multidisciplinary, image-guided, and patient-centered approach is essential for optimizing clinical outcomes in cases of dens invaginatus. Full article

Background/Objectives: Among the paranasal sinuses, the maxillary antrum holds unique clinical relevance due to its proximity to the alveolar process of the maxilla, which houses the teeth. This study aimed to evaluate the position of the root apices of the maxillary canines and posterior teeth relative to the maxillary sinus floor in Romanian subjects. Methods: Data for the study were retrospectively obtained from cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans. The evaluation considered the pattern of proximity to the sinus floor for each tooth type, comparisons of the sinus relationships of teeth within the same dental hemiarch, as well as those of homologous teeth, and variation in root-to-sinus distance in relation to sex and age. Nonparametric tests were used for statistical analysis, and multiple comparisons were performed using Bonferroni post hoc correction. Results: The study included 70 individuals aged 20 to 60 years. The distance to the sinus floor decreased progressively from the first premolar to the second molar, with median values of 3.68 mm (first premolar), 1.45 mm (second premolar), 0.50 mm (first molar), and 0.34 mm (second molar) (p < 0.01). Stronger correlations were observed between adjacent teeth than between non-adjacent ones. The distances to the sinus floor were greater on the right side compared to the left; however, these differences were not statistically significant (p > 0.05 for all teeth). Concordance between left and right dental hemiarches regarding the closest tooth to the sinus floor was found in 70% of cases (n = 49), most frequently involving the second molars (n = 38; 54.3%). On average, the distance from the sinus floor was smaller in males compared to females, with statistically significant differences observed only for the second molar. Increased age was associated with a greater distance to the sinus floor. Conclusions: Of all the teeth investigated, the second molar showed the highest combined prevalence of penetrating and tangential relationships with the maxillary sinus. At the dental hemiarch level, the second molar was most frequently the closest tooth to the sinus floor, and in the majority of cases, at least one posterior tooth was located within 0.3 mm. Accurate preoperative assessment of tooth position relative to the sinus floor is essential when performing non-surgical or surgical root canal therapy and extractions of maxillary molars and premolars. CBCT provides essential three-dimensional imaging that improves diagnostic precision and supports safer treatment planning for procedures involving the posterior maxilla. Full article

Odontogenic abscesses are a frequent and challenging clinical issue in pet rabbits, often requiring a comprehensive diagnostic and therapeutic approach. This review collates current evidence on the etiology, diagnosis, and treatment of rabbit odontogenic abscesses, with a focus on imaging advances, microbial diversity, and local antimicrobial therapies. Predisposing factors include congenital conformation, inappropriate diet (insufficient abrasiveness, calcium or Vit D deficiencies, etc.), trauma, and neoplasia. Imaging techniques such as CT and cone-beam CT (CBCT) enable early detection and surgical planning, while traditional radiography remains useful in general practice. Treatment includes systemic antibiotics, surgical curettage, and the use of localized delivery systems such as antibiotic-impregnated polymethyl methacrylate (AIPMMA) beads. Adjunctive therapies like Manuka honey are also discussed. Two original heatmaps summarize bacterial prevalence and antimicrobial resistance from six peer-reviewed studies. These visualizations highlight the polymicrobial nature of these infections and the emergence of multidrug-resistant strains. Preventive strategies focus on optimal diet, regular dental checks, and owner education. The review also identifies key gaps in the literature, including the underreporting of anaerobes and lack of standardized treatment protocols. This article aims to support veterinary professionals in delivering evidence-based, individualized care to improve outcomes in rabbits with odontogenic abscesses. Full article

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is a non-invasive imaging technique that provides high-resolution, real-time visualization of soft and hard periodontal tissues. It offers micrometer-level resolution (typically ~10–15 μm) and a scan depth ranging from approximately 0.5 to 2 mm, depending on tissue type and system configuration. The field of view generally spans a few millimeters, which is sufficient for imaging gingiva, sulcus, and superficial bone contours. Over the past two decades, its application in periodontology has gained increasing attention due to its ability to detect structural changes in gingival and alveolar tissues without the need for ionizing radiation. Various OCT modalities, including time-domain, Fourier-domain, and swept-source OCT, have been explored for periodontal assessment, offering valuable insights into tissue morphology, disease progression, and treatment outcomes. Recent innovations include the development of three-dimensional (3D) OCT imaging and OCT angiography (OCTA), enabling the volumetric visualization of periodontal structures and microvascular patterns in vivo. Compared to conventional imaging techniques, such as radiography and cone beam computed tomography (CBCT), OCT offers superior soft tissue contrast and the potential for dynamic in vivo monitoring of periodontal conditions. Recent advancements, including the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and the development of portable OCT systems, have further expanded its diagnostic capabilities. However, challenges, such as limited penetration depth, high costs, and the need for standardized clinical protocols, must be addressed before widespread clinical implementation. This narrative review provides an updated overview of the principles, applications, and technological advancements of OCT in periodontology. The current limitations and future perspectives of this technology are also discussed, with a focus on its potential role in improving periodontal diagnostics and personalized treatment approaches. Full article

The detection of particulate matter, particularly pathogenic bacteria, is essential in environmental monitoring, food safety, and clinical diagnostics. Among the various sensing techniques used, cantilever-based sensors offer a promising platform for label-free, real-time detection due to their high sensitivity. Here, we present a coupled cantilever sensor incorporating interdigitated comb-shaped structures to enhance dielectrophoretic (DEP) capture of Escherichia coli in liquid samples. During operation, one cantilever is externally actuated and the other oscillates passively through fluid-mediated coupling. The sensor was experimentally evaluated across a broad concentration range from 10 to 10⁵ cells/mL and the resonant frequency shifts were recorded for both beams. The results showed a strong linear frequency shift across all tested concentrations, without saturation. This demonstrates the sensor’s ability to detect both trace and high bacterial loads without needing recalibration. High frequency shifts of 4863 Hz were recorded for 10⁵ cells/mL and 225 Hz for the lowest concentration of 10 cells/mL, giving a limit of detection of 10 cells/mL. The sensor also showed a higher signal to noise ratio of 265.7 compared to previously reported designs. These findings showed that the enhanced sensor design enables sensitive, linear, and reliable bioparticle detection across a wide range, making it suitable for diverse applications. Full article

Background: Eighty-five percent of peri-implant malignancies are oral squamous cell carcinomas (OSCCs), and most of them are misdiagnosed as peri-implantitis because of their clinical and radiological presentation; few studies have focused on addressing and solving the diagnostic issues related to peri-implant OSCCs. Objectives: The study aimed to describe the clinicopathological features of peri-implant OSCCs and to report the staging issues related to the diagnosis of these lesions. Methods: This retrospective cohort study included patients who received a diagnosis of and treatment for peri-implant OSCCs at the Unit of Dentistry of the “Aldo Moro” University of Bari (Italy) from 2018 to 2024. By using descriptive statistics, the authors highlighted the diagnostic issues related to the clinical presentation, radiological features, and histology of peri-implant OSCCs. Results: A total of 13 women and 8 men with a mean age of 70.6 ± 11.7 years met the inclusion criteria; the medical history of the participants showed potentially malignant disorders (OPMDs) in 52.4% of patients, whereas 14.3% had already developed an OSCC. The patients showed 24 peri-implant OSCCs; the clinical presentation was leuko-erythroplakia-like (41.7%) or erythroplakia-like (58.3%), thus simulating peri-implantitis; in addition, 52.0% of dental implants involved had a probing pocket depth ≥ 10 mm, further mimicking peri-implantitis. Panoramic radiograms and cone beam computed tomography were of little use in studying bundle bone–implant interfaces; in particular, the tomography showed circumferential bone resorption only in peri-implantitis-like OSCCs. In total, 91.6% of histological examinations of OSCCs showed peri-implantitis-like inflammation; early-stage lesions (pTNM I-II) accounted for 33.3%, whereas late-stage lesions (pTNM III-IV) accounted for 66.7%; lymph nodal metastases occurred in 25.0% and 62.5%, respectively. The mean follow-up was 3.4 ± 1.0 years; all patients with OPMDs had poorly differentiated tumors and thus showed a worse prognosis than those without OPMDs (mean disease-free survival of 15.5 ± 7.7 months and 44.7 ± 12.1 months, respectively). Conclusions: The results of the study showed that peri-implant OSCCs occurred most frequently in patients with OPMDs or previous OSCC; in addition, peri-implant OSCCs required demolition rather than conservative excision, and the prognosis of patients strictly depended on the grade of the cancer. In the authors’ experience, the clinical–radiological presentation simulating peri-implantitis was the feature that concurred most in complicating the diagnosis of those tumors. Full article

Objective: This ex vivo study aimed to evaluate the influence of different acquisition protocols, combining voxel size and field of view (FOV), across four cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) systems, on the accuracy of alveolar bone level measurements for periodontal assessment. Materials and Methods: A dry human mandible was used, with standardized radiopaque markers placed on the cementoenamel junction (CEJ) of the buccal–mesial and buccal–distal aspects of teeth 34 and 43. CBCT scans were performed using four systems—Veraview^® X800, OP300 Pro^®, I-CAT Next Generation^®, and Orthophos XG^®—applying various combinations of field of view (FOV) and voxel resolution available in each device. Reference measurements were obtained in situ using a digital caliper. CBCT images were exported in DICOM format and analyzed with OnDemand3D software (version 4.6) to obtain paracoronal sections. Linear measurements from the CEJ to the alveolar crest were recorded in triplicate and compared to the gold standard using ANOVA and the Dunnett test (α = 0.05). Results: Protocols with smaller voxel sizes and limited FOVs generally yielded measurements closer to the gold standard. However, some larger-FOV protocols with intermediate voxel sizes also achieved comparable accuracy. Among the systems, the I-CAT showed lower agreement within in situ measurements, while others demonstrated reliable performance depending on the acquisition parameters. Conclusions: The findings suggest that CBCT protocols with smaller voxel sizes and reduced FOVs can enhance measurement accuracy in periodontal bone assessments. Nevertheless, intermediate protocols may offer a balance between diagnostic quality and radiation exposure, aligning with the ALADA principle. This study reinforces the need for standardized acquisition parameters tailored to periodontal imaging. Full article

This study presents the design and development of electromagnetic dipole magnets for use as beam dumps and spectrometers in the MIR and THz free-electron laser (FEL) beamlines at the PBP-CMU Electron Linac Laboratory (PCELL). The magnets were optimized to achieve a 60-degree bending angle for electron beams with energies up to 30 MeV, without requiring water cooling. Using CST EM Studio for 3D magnetic field simulations and ASTRA for particle tracking, the THz dipole (with 414 turns) and MIR dipole (with 600 turns) generated magnetic fields of 0.1739 T and 0.2588 T, respectively, while both operating at currents below 10 A. Performance analysis confirmed effective beam deflection, with the THz dipole showing that it was capable of handling beam energies up to 20 MeV and the MIR dipole could handle up to 30 MeV. The energy measurement at the spectrometer screen position was simulated, taking into account transverse beam size, fringe fields, and space charge effects, using ASTRA. The energy resolution, defined as the ratio of energy uncertainty to the mean energy, was evaluated for selected cases. For beam energies of 16 MeV and 25 MeV, resolutions of 0.2% and 0.5% were achieved with transverse beam sizes of 1 mm and 4 mm, respectively. All evaluated cases maintained energy resolutions below 1%, confirming the spectrometer’s suitability for high-precision beam diagnostics. Furthermore, the relationship between the initial and measured energy spread errors, taking into account a camera resolution of 0.1 mm/pixel, was evaluated. Simulations across various beam energies (10–16 MeV for the THz dipole and 20–25 MeV for the MIR dipole) confirmed that the measurement error in energy spread decreases with smaller RMS transverse beam sizes. This trend was consistent across all tested energies and magnet configurations. To ensure accurate energy spread measurements, a small initial beam size is recommended. Specifically, for beams with a narrow initial energy spread, a transverse beam size below 1 mm is essential. Full article

Background: Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing healthcare by enhancing diagnostic precision and risk assessment. In dentistry, AI has been increasingly integrated into Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) to improve image interpretation and pre-surgical planning. The lingual foramen (LF), a vital anatomical structure that transmits neurovascular elements, requires accurate evaluation during implant procedures. Traditional CBCT studies describe LF variations but lack a standardized risk classification. This study introduces a novel AI-based model for stratifying the surgical risk associated with LF using machine learning. Objectives: This study aimed to (1) assess the prevalence and anatomical variations of the lingual foramen (LF) using CBCT, (2) develop an AI-driven risk classification model based on LF characteristics, and (3) compare the AI model’s performance with that of traditional statistical methods. Materials and Methods: A retrospective analysis of 166 CBCT scans was conducted. K-means clustering and decision tree algorithms classified foramina into Low, Moderate, and High-Risk groups based on count, size, and proximity to the alveolar crest. The model performance was evaluated using confusion matrix analysis, heatmap correlations, and the elbow method. Traditional analyses (chi-square and logistic regression) were also performed. Results: The AI model categorized foramina into low (60%), moderate (30%), and high (10%) risk groups. The decision tree achieved a classification accuracy of 92.6 %, with 89.4% agreement with expert manual classification, confirming the model’s reliability. Conclusions: This study presents a validated AI-driven model for the risk assessment of the lingual foramen. Integrating AI into CBCT workflows offers a structured, objective, and automated method for enhancing surgical safety and precision in dental implant planning. Full article

Background/Objectives: Osteoporosis is a widespread and chronic systemic bone disease that affects the jaws and teeth and, therefore, also dentistry. Osteoporosis can be diagnosed by different radiological methods. Dental cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) plays an important role in dentistry imaging. The aim of our retrospective pilot study was to find criteria in CBCT that point to the possible existence of osteoporosis. Methods: Pilot study. The hard palate thickness (HPT) of the patients was measured at a defined location in the CBCT. Additionally, the CBCT images were presented to a radiologist for visual assessment. Both results were compared with the DXA measurements—as the “gold standard”—and patient history. Results: We found a consistent correlation between the visual assessments using established radiological criteria, including the new criterion of hard palate thickness (HPT), and the diagnosis of normal or pathological bone density. Secondly, for the HPT measurement all “pathologic” CBCT had an HPT of ≤0.9 mm, and all normal patients had an HPT of ≥0.9 mm. Conclusions: Despite the small sample size, this CBCT pilot study showed a correlation between HPT and systemic bone disease. Therefore, as our main result, we found a new CBCT diagnostic criterion, which quickly and uncomplicatedly points to the possible existence of bone disease, especially osteoporosis. We propose HPT as a new criterion in the evaluation of CBCT images. A threshold of <0.9 mm may be indicative for osteoporosis or osteopenia, indicating a need for further evaluation. Full article

This article includes tests of the deflection and load-bearing capacity of reinforced concrete beams exposed to chloride ions. This work forms part of the verification of a newly developed model for estimating the intensity of the corrosion current of the reinforcement, which assumes the possibility of estimating the corrosion parameter based on a detailed analysis of the element deformation. The model assumes the use of the inverse problem, which is based on the analysis of deflection as a result of the partial impact of the corrosion process on the main reinforcement in the reinforced concrete element. This article presents, in detail, the course of the conducted tests, including the results of the deflection measurements with simultaneous measurements of the intensity of the corrosion current of the reinforcement during the test. As part of this research, a gravimetric analysis of the loss of reinforcement mass caused by the ongoing corrosion process was also performed. The main objective of this research was to experimentally verify the adopted model of the new diagnostic method, which fully confirmed the model assumptions. The obtained research results confirmed the validity of the assumptions adopted in the theoretical model, which was further confirmed by analytical calculations. Full article

The generation of high-quality mid-infrared free-electron laser (MIR-FEL) radiation depends critically on precise control of electron beam parameters, including energy, energy spread, transverse emittance, bunch charge, and bunch length. At the PBP-CMU Electron Linac Laboratory (PCELL), effective beam diagnostics are essential for optimizing FEL performance. However, dedicated systems for direct measurement of transverse emittance and bunch length at the undulator entrance have been lacking. This paper addresses this gap by presenting the design, simulation, and analysis of diagnostic stations for accurate characterization of these parameters. A two-quadrupole emittance measurement system was developed, enabling independent control of beam-focusing in both transverse planes. An analytical model was formulated specifically for this configuration to enhance emittance reconstruction accuracy. Systematic error analysis was conducted using ASTRA beam dynamics simulations, incorporating 3D field maps from CST Studio Suite and fully including space-charge effects. Results show that transverse emittance values as low as 0.15 mm·mrad can be measured with less than 20% error when the initial RMS beam size is under 2 mm. Additionally, quadrupole misalignment effects were quantified, showing that alignment within ±0.95 mm limits systematic errors to below 33.3%. For bunch length measurements, a transition radiation (TR) station coupled with a Michelson interferometer was designed. Spectral and interferometric simulations reveal that transverse beam size and beam splitter properties significantly affect measurement accuracy. A 6% error due to transverse size was identified, while Kapton beam splitters introduced additional systematic distortions. In contrast, a 6 mm-thick silicon beam splitter enabled accurate, correction-free measurements. The finite size of the radiator was also found to suppress low-frequency components, resulting in up to 10.6% underestimation of bunch length. This work provides a practical and comprehensive diagnostic framework that accounts for multiple error sources in both transverse emittance and bunch length measurements. These findings contribute valuable insight for the beam diagnostics community and support improved control of beam quality in MIR FEL systems. Full article

This study presents the experimental results of an energy harvesting system comprising a cylindrical bluff body coupled with a cantilever beam. A piezoelectric sensor was installed on the beam to generate electrical voltage during the object’s vibrations at the beam’s free end. The research aimed to evaluate the impact of the bluff body’s mass and diameter on the efficiency of the piezoelectric energy harvesting system. Vibrations of the test object were induced by airflow within a chamber of a closed-loop wind tunnel. Five different bluff body masses were analyzed for each of three cylindrical diameters across an airflow velocity range of 1 m/s to 10 m/s. These experiments allowed for the recording of a series of voltage signals over time. The signals were then subjected to Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) analysis. Subsequently, the relationship between vibration frequency and airflow velocity was examined. The peak-to-peak voltage value was also analyzed to provide an overall assessment of the energy harvesting efficiency of the system under investigation. Finally, the 0–1 test for chaos was additionally employed as a diagnostic tool to assess the complexity of system dynamics based on time series data. This test allowed for distinguishing between oscillatory behavior and cases where the system became trapped in a potential well, revealing key transitions in dynamic regimes. Full article

Designing a transmission line (TL) for a widely tunable, broadband terahertz radiation source presents substantial challenges due to the complexity of beam dynamics and spectral characteristics. Here, we investigate the propagation of the most significant radiation modes expected to traverse the TL, intended for integration with an advanced particle accelerator currently under construction at the Schlesinger Family Center for Compact Accelerators, Radiation Sources and Applications. The total electromagnetic field at the source output is expressed in the frequency domain via cavity eigenmodes and transformed into an optical field representation using the Wigner distribution function (WDF). This formulation enables physically consistent modeling within the constraints of geometric optics and Wigner formalism of the spatiotemporal evolution of the radiation during propagation. The initial TL design is developed and optimized based on this representation. A 3D space–frequency analysis tool for pulsed radiation, based on the WDF, was implemented to characterize field behavior and guide system development. Complementary ray tracing simulations were conducted using the Zemax Optic Studio platform, supporting the assessment of optical feasibility through simulation and system feasibility. Full article