Search Results (50)

Introduction: Evidence on orthodontic interventions for temporomandibular disorders (TMD) is fragmented and inconclusive, creating a gap in guidance for clinical decision-making. This study addresses that gap by evaluating current knowledge on these interventions. Methods: A PRISMA-ScR scoping review was conducted with a systematic search of PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science (2018–2023). Eligible studies were peer-reviewed, English-language, human studies examining TMD treatment and/or etiology. Three independent reviewers screened records and extracted data and a fourth reviewer performed random audits. Results: Of 899 records, 10 studies met inclusion criteria (non-surgical, n = 7: 4 case reports, 2 prospective, 1 longitudinal; combined orthodontic–surgical, n = 3: 1 case report, 2 longitudinal; participant ages 15–71 years). Diagnostics included imaging, clinical examination, occlusal analysis, and questionnaires, although few used RDC/TMD or DC/TMD criteria. Non-surgical orthodontic modalities (fixed appliances, camouflage, TADs, stabilization splints) showed mixed results, with several studies reporting short-term symptom improvement, while others found no effect on TMD onset or progression. Combined orthodontic–surgical approaches (e.g., bilateral sagittal split osteotomy, Le Fort I) also showed variable outcomes. Conclusions: Low-to-moderate quality evidence suggests that orthodontic-surgical interventions may alleviate TMD symptoms in select patients; however, heterogeneity and limited use of standardized diagnostics constrain the certainty of these findings. Future research should prioritize DC/TMD-based diagnostics, core outcomes, comparative designs, and ≥12–24 months of follow-up to identify prognostic factors and responsive subgroups. Full article

Objective: We aimed to investigate the relationship between camouflaging and lifetime depression among autistic people, along with the role of sex in this relationship. Methods: Sixty-five autistic subjects with no intellectual or language disability (34 females, 31 males), presenting to an outpatient service for the treatment of concurrent mental disorders, were administered module A of the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-5 Disorders, the Autism Spectrum Quotient (AQ), and the Camouflaging Autistic Traits Questionnaire (CAT-Q). Results: No differences were found in CAT-Q total or domain scores across sexes. Subjects with lifetime depression reported significantly higher scores than those without for all CAT-Q scores, with depressed women often reporting the highest scores among the groups. The difference between depressed and non-depressed women was significant for all but the CAT-Q assimilation score. The CAT-Q total score significantly predicted lifetime depression (B = 0.053, p = 0.003) when controlling for age, sex, and the AQ total score. Conclusions: Our study expands the extant knowledge about the role of camouflaging in the mental wellbeing of autistic people by showing a correlation between camouflaging and depressive disorders throughout the lifetime among both males and females. Full article

Atherosclerosis, a chronic inflammatory disease, remains a leading cause of cardiovascular mortality worldwide. Despite standard treatments like statins and percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), significant residual risk and therapeutic limitations underscore the need for innovative strategies. This review summarizes recent advances in nanoparticle-based therapies for atherosclerosis, focusing on key developments from the last five years. We discuss various nanoplatforms designed to selectively target key cellular players in plaque pathogenesis, including macrophages, endothelial cells, and vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs), to inhibit inflammation, modulate cellular phenotypes, and stabilize plaques. A significant focus is placed on the emerging field of biomimetic nanoparticles, where therapeutic cores are camouflaged with cell membranes derived from macrophages, platelets, neutrophils, or erythrocytes. This approach leverages the natural biological functions of the source cells to achieve enhanced immune evasion, prolonged circulation, and precise targeting of atherosclerotic lesions. Furthermore, the review covers nanoparticles engineered for specific functional interventions, such as lowering LDL levels and exerting direct anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative effects. Finally, we address the critical challenges hindering clinical translation, including nanotoxicity, biodistribution, and manufacturing scalability. In conclusion, nanotechnology offers a versatile and powerful platform for atherosclerosis therapy, with targeted and biomimetic strategies holding immense promise to revolutionize future cardiovascular medicine. Full article

Background/Objectives: A previous study evaluating convex facial profiles at rest demonstrated that combined orthodontic and orthognathic surgical treatment is more effective in enhancing facial aesthetics compared to orthodontic camouflage alone. The present follow-up study aimed to reassess these findings by incorporating both profile and frontal facial views in the aesthetic evaluation. Methods: This retrospective cohort study sample included 36 consecutively selected patients with convex facial profiles and Class II Division 1 malocclusion. Two groups of 18 non-growing patients with similar characteristics were compared. Group A was treated with orthodontics and orthognathic surgery, whereas Group B was treated with orthodontics exclusively. Pre- and post-treatment profile and frontal facial photographs were simultaneously presented to orthodontists, oral and maxillofacial surgeons, convex profile patients, and laypeople, asking them to assess changes in facial appearance. Results: Significant positive changes in facial appearance were perceived for Group A, in contrast to no changes for Group B, with a difference of 17/100 visual analogue scale (VAS) units. The rater groups demonstrated a high degree of consistency (ICC > 0.88). Multivariate analysis revealed significant differences in perceived changes between the two treatment groups (F = 14.63, p < 0.001, Pillai’s Trace = 0.36, and partial η² = 0.36), with no significant effects from the rater group (p > 0.05). Similar results are evident when only profile photos were rated (p > 0.05). Conclusions: The combined orthodontic and orthognathic surgery approach effectively enhances facial appearance in convex profile cases, whereas orthodontic treatment alone does not result in significant changes. These findings should be clearly communicated during patient consultations and considered in treatment planning. Full article

Background/Objectives: Orthodontic camouflage is a treatment strategy designed to address mild to moderate skeletal discrepancies through dental compensation when growth modification or orthognathic surgery (OGS) is unsuitable or declined by the patient. This report highlights the treatment of a child with a skeletal Class II pattern, Class II division 1 malocclusion, a 10.8 mm overjet, traumatic overbite, and unilateral temporomandibular joint (TMJ) ankylosis on the left side. Methods: The treatment plan focused on correcting the proclination of the maxillary incisors and improving the facial profile. A non-extraction camouflage approach using pre-adjusted edgewise appliances was implemented following a gap arthroplasty procedure on the left TMJ. Results: The patient achieved a satisfactory treatment outcome, with an ideal static and functional occlusion and significant improvement in facial esthetics. The approach effectively managed the severe mandibular retrognathia and TMJ ankylosis without OGS, thereby minimizing the risk of progressive condylar resorption. Conclusions: This case underscores the importance of personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s dental, skeletal, and individual needs. It demonstrates that non-surgical camouflage treatments can be a viable alternative for addressing severe mandibular retrognathia with TMJ ankylosis, achieving favorable esthetic and functional outcomes. Full article

Background: Temporary anchorage devices (TADs) have reduced the need for anterior segmental osteotomy (ASO) in Class I patients; however, ASO remains relevant in Class II patients. As previous studies were conducted before the usage of TADs, updated guidelines are required to determine the relationship between surgery and orthodontic treatment. We aimed to evaluate the hard tissue changes following ASO versus non-ASO (NASO) orthodontic treatment utilizing TADs with premolar extraction. Methods: This retrospective clinical study involved 67 patients diagnosed with skeletal Class II malocclusion. The patients were categorized into the ASO (n = 31) and NASO (n = 36) groups. Cephalometric analyses were conducted to compare initial and final records to assess the treatment effects. Results: Pre- and post-treatment changes in the ASO and NASO groups exhibited significant differences in ΔSNA, ΔSNB, ΔANB, ΔA to N-perp, ΔB to N-perp, ΔPog to N-perp, and ΔA to FH (p < 0.05). Both groups demonstrated normalized ANB, indicating significant skeletal improvement in Class II malocclusion. Specifically, the change in FMIA (ΔL1 to FH [°]) was 4.98° greater in the NASO group than in the ASO group (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Considering the IMPA change, NASO was recommended for treatment choice when a reduction of more than 10° was achievable. Full article

Background: We compared the camouflage effect of three white spot lesion (WSL) treatments (infiltration, nano-hydroxyapatite (nHAP) remineralization, and microabrasion) and color stability of the treated surfaces. Methods: Fifty sound extracted teeth were used in the study. WSLs were created on 40 buccal dento-enamel specimens through the use of acidic methylcellulose gel. These specimens were randomly assigned to treatment groups (n = 10 per group): negative controls, nano-hydroxyapatite (nHAP), resin infiltration, and microabrasion. After the treatment, all 50 specimens were immersed in coffee for 7 days. Color measurements were performed four times: at baseline (T0), after the demineralization procedure (T1), after the treatments (T2), and after immersion in coffee (T3). Results: No restoration of the initial enamel color was observed in any of the groups. The ICON and MA groups exhibited the highest masking effect, with the mean ΔE_T0-T2 = 7.46, although the differences among the study groups were insignificant. All three treatments increased the resistance of WSLs to discoloration in coffee compared to the negative control group; however, infiltration (∆E_T2-T3 = 4.13) and microabrasion (∆E_T2-T3 = 3.49) showed a better color stability tendency than nHAP remineralization (∆E_T2-T3 = 7.26). Conclusions: Despite its well-known remineralizing and desensitizing effects, nHAP showed the least masking effect for WSLs and lower color stability compared to resin infiltration and microabrasion. However, none of the methods allowed for complete restoration of the original color. After the discoloration procedure, the color changes in the white spots treated with microabrasion and infiltration were comparable to those of the sound enamel. Full article

Acute myocardial infarction, a leading cause of death globally, is often associated with cardiometabolic disorders such as atherosclerosis and metabolic syndrome. Metabolic treatment of these disorders can improve cardiac outcomes, as exemplified by the GLP-1 agonist semaglutide. Fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21), a novel metabolic regulator, plays pivotal roles in lipid mobilization and energy conversion, reducing lipotoxicity, inflammation, mitochondrial health, and subsequent tissue damage in organs such as the liver, pancreas, and heart. Here, we test the therapeutic efficacy of FGF21 in mice with ischemia–reperfusion (I/R) injury, a model of acute myocardial infarction. We employed the strategic method of coating the FGF21-encapsulating liposomal nanoparticles with a neutrophil membrane designed to camouflage FGF21 from macrophage-mediated efferocytotic clearance and promote its targeted accumulation at I/R foci due to the inherent neutrophilic attraction to the inflammatory site. Our findings revealed that the coated FGF21 nanoparticles markedly accumulated within the lesions with a prolonged half-life, in additional to the liver, leading to substantial improvements in cardiac performance by enhancing mitochondrial energetic function and reducing oxidative stress, inflammation, and cell death. Therefore, our research highlights a viable strategy for the enhanced delivery of therapeutical FGF21 analogs to lesions beyond the liver following myocardial infarction. Full article

Although materials with infrared camouflage capabilities are increasingly being produced, few applications exist in clothing fabrics. Here, graphene/MXene-modified fabric with superior infrared camouflage, Joule heating, and electromagnetic shielding capabilities all in one was prepared by simply scraping a graphene slurry onto alkali-treated cotton fabrics, followed by spraying MXene. The functionality of the modified fabrics after different treatment times was then tested and analyzed. The results indicate that the mid-infrared emissivity of the modified fabric decreases with an increase in the coating times of graphene and MXene. When the graphene/MXene-modified fabrics are prepared at loads of 5 and 1.2 mg/cm², respectively, the modified fabrics have very low infrared emissivity in the 3–5 and 8–14 μm bands, and the surface temperature can be reduced by 53.1 °C when placed on a heater with a temperature of 100 °C (surface radiation temperature of 95 °C). The modified fabric also demonstrates excellent Joule heating capabilities; at 4 V of power, a temperature of 91.7 °C may be reached in 30 s. In addition, customized materials exhibit strong electromagnetic shielding performance. By simply folding the cloth, the electromagnetic interference shield effect can be increased to 64.3 dB. With their superior infrared camouflage, thermal management, and electromagnetic shielding performance, graphene/MXene-modified fabrics have found extensive use in intelligent wearables and military applications. Full article

Class II malocclusions, characterized by the mesial positioning of the maxillary molars relative to the mandibular molars, are among the most frequently encountered orthodontic issues. One of the widely adopted non-extraction approaches for addressing this malocclusion is maxillary molar distalization, which has been utilized for decades to create space within the dental arch. Historically, extraoral appliances such as headgear were commonly employed. However, with technological advancements, intraoral distalization devices, particularly those incorporating temporary anchorage devices (TADs), have gained prominence due to their compact size, not being visible externally, and improved patient acceptance. These appliances offer significant advantages, including being less invasive compared with extraction-based camouflage treatments, being more readily accepted by patients due to the absence of extraction spaces, and not requiring the complex biomechanical principles involved in extraction-based methods. TADs have revolutionized distalization techniques by providing superior anchorage control, reducing treatment duration, and offering a straightforward, patient-friendly application. The purpose of this comprehensive narrative review is to focus specifically on intraoral distalization techniques utilizing TADs, summarizing their efficacy and outcomes in the management of Class II malocclusions as reported in clinical studies over the past three decades. Full article

This retrospective investigation aims to evaluate the dentoskeletal and soft tissue changes after the distalization of the mandibular dentition using the ramal plates in nonextraction camouflage treatment of severe Class III malocclusion with a full-cusp discrepancy or more at the first molars. The sample consisted of pre- (T1) and post-treatment (T2) lateral cephalograms from 25 adult patients who were treated with the ramal plates for mandibular total distalization. The skeletal, dental, and soft tissue variables were analyzed from T1 to T2 in order to determine the effects of mandibular dentitional distalization. The mandibular first molars distalized 3.65 mm at the crown and 1.81 mm at the root. Similarly, the mandibular incisors retracted 3.32 mm at the crown and 0.81 mm at the root. Skeletally, the Wits appraisal displayed a significant increase of 1.56 mm. Also, soft tissue changes showed a significant lower lip retraction of 1.26 mm. These findings suggest that the ramal plates exhibited effective mandibular distalization in treating severe Class III malocclusion, which may be considered a viable alternative to the orthognathic surgical approach in some patients. Full article

Pycnodysostosis (PDS) is an autosomal recessive form of osteosclerotic skeletal dysplasia characterized by craniofacial anomalies, a high-arched palate, and a narrowed pharyngeal space due to mandibular and maxillary deficiencies. These structural anomalies in the upper airway predispose PDS patients to obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). OSA can be managed in PDS patients using either a conservative (non-surgical and multidisciplinary) approach or surgical interventions. Given the craniofacial anomalies associated with PDS, orthodontic treatment aims to address the maxillary transverse deficit and retrognathia. Currently, there is no evidence regarding the impact of orthodontic therapy on OSA levels among PDS patients. This study reports the long-term morphological and functional changes in the upper airway of a PDS patient following adenotonsillectomy and uvulopalatoplasty at an early age (3.6 years) and orthodontic camouflage in late mixed dentition (10 years). Polysomnographies (PSGs), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), and lateral cephalograms taken before and after ENT surgery and orthodontic treatment were analyzed. Lateral X-rays were evaluated for changes in the posterior airway space (PAS), while polysomnographies provided the apnea–hypopnea index (AHI). The NMR scans were segmented to measure the perimeter and radius of the upper airway. The findings of this study indicate that improvements following uvulopalatoplasty (UPP) were partial and temporary. Nonetheless, orthodontic therapy and the use of elastics did not appear to influence the PAS or AHI. Future studies with larger cohorts are needed to evaluate the long-term effectiveness of the UPP procedure. This study was conducted in accordance with the CARE guidelines. Full article

(1) Background: Postponing orthodontic treatment in Class III malocclusion until deterioration and growth cessation to perform orthognathic surgery does not seem to be an optimal solution for every patient. This report describes short- and long-term outcomes for nonsurgical treatment of four adolescents with severe Class III malocclusion. (2) Methods: Four patients (aged 13–15 y) with skeletal Class III (Wits appraisal below 7.5 mm) started a three-stage treatment, consisting of a six-month-long phase I and involving orthopedic treatment with an individual chin-cup. Phase II involved orthopedic treatment with a bonded Haas-type expander on acrylic splints, a face-mask, a lower fixed appliance and Class III elastics; phase III involved full fixed appliance, elastics and reuse of the individual chin-cup. Pre and posttreatment cephalograms were analyzed and superimposed. (3) Results: Improved skeletal and dental relationships and facial appearance was achieved in all patients. Wits appraisal, angles ANB, ANPg and lower face height increased; an improvement of overbite was noted. (4) Conclusions: Severe skeletal Class III in adolescents may be successfully treated with combined orthopedic/camouflage treatment with a Haas-type expander on acrylic splints, Class III elastics, fixed appliance and orthopedic devices (individual chin-cup and facemask) with a very good compliance. Full article

The advent of pH-sensitive liposomes (pHLips) has opened new opportunities for the improved and targeted delivery of antitumor drugs as well as gene therapeutics. Comprising fusogenic dioleylphosphatidylethanolamine (DOPE) and cholesteryl hemisuccinate (CHEMS), these nanosystems harness the acidification in the tumor microenvironment and endosomes to deliver drugs effectively. pH-responsive liposomes that are internalized through endocytosis encounter mildly acidic pH in the endosomes and thereafter fuse or destabilize the endosomal membrane, leading to subsequent cargo release into the cytoplasm. The extracellular tumor matrix also presents a slightly acidic environment that can lead to the enhanced drug release and improved targeting capabilities of the nano-delivery system. Recent studies have shown that folic acid (FA) and iRGD-coated nanocarriers, including pH-sensitive liposomes, can preferentially accumulate and deliver drugs to breast tumors that overexpress folate receptors and αvβ3 and αvβ5 integrins. This study focuses on the development and characterization of 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU)-loaded FA and iRGD surface-modified pHLips (FA-iRGD-5-FU-pHLips). The novelty of this research lies in the dual targeting mechanism utilizing FA and iRGD peptides, combined with the pH-sensitive properties of the liposomes, to enhance selective targeting and uptake by cancer cells and effective drug release in the acidic tumor environment. The prepared liposomes were small, with an average diameter of 152 ± 3.27 nm, uniform, and unilamellar, demonstrating efficient 5-FU encapsulation (93.1 ± 2.58%). Despite surface functionalization, the liposomes maintained their pH sensitivity and a neutral zeta potential, which also conferred stability and reduced aggregation. Effective pH responsiveness was demonstrated by the observation of enhanced drug release at pH 5.5 compared to physiological pH 7.4. (84.47% versus 46.41% release at pH 5.5 versus pH 7.4, respectively, in 72 h). The formulations exhibited stability for six months and were stable when subjected to simulated biological settings. Blood compatibility and cytotoxicity studies on MDA-MB-231 and SK-BR3 breast cancer cell lines revealed an enhanced cytotoxicity of the liposomal formulation that was modified with FA and iRGD compared to free 5-FU and minimal hemolysis. Collectively, these findings support the potential of FA and iRGD surface-camouflaged, pH-sensitive liposomes as a promising drug delivery strategy for breast cancer treatment. Full article

Ti and its alloys have been vastly employed in the manufacturing of biomedical implants for orthopedy and dentistry, especially the Ti-6Al-4V alloy (wt%), which is the most-used Ti alloy worldwide. However, the ion release of Al and V in the long term has been related to harmful effects on the human body. In this scenario, surface modification strategies, such as plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO), have often been performed in Ti alloys to match the clinical needs. This study evaluated the effect of electrical AC parameters on the surface of the commercial Ti-6Al-4V alloy immersed in ZrO₂-rich electrolytic solution regarding the chemical, physical, structural, and topographical aspects. Then, the selected PEO-treated samples surpassed the electrochemical test in saline solution. The results indicated that the electrical AC parameters affect the duration and intensity of the oxidative reactions and plasma micro-discharge steps, resulting in porous and thick oxide layers. PEO treatment promoted bio-camouflage of the surface, enriching it with TiO₂, ZrO₂, and ZrTiO₄ compounds and depleting it of Al and V. After screening the PEO-treated samples and their corrosion behavior, the results indicated that the porous ZrO₂–TiO₂ ceramic coatings in the Ti-6Al-4V alloy can be a viable alternative for the manufacturing of biomedical implants. Full article