Search Results (57)

Background/Objectives: Surgical extraction of impacted mandibular third molars is frequently associated with postoperative morbidity, including swelling, trismus, and pain. However, the extent to which osteotomy contributes to these outcomes remains unclear. The aim of this study was to evaluate osteotomy as an intraoperative determinant of early postoperative morbidity following mandibular third molar extraction. Methods: This study represents a secondary analysis of data obtained from a randomized clinical trial. Patients undergoing surgical removal of impacted mandibular third molars were categorized according to whether osteotomy was required during the procedure. Postoperative outcomes included surgical duration, facial swelling (primary outcome) assessed by linear facial measurements, maximal mouth opening (trismus), postoperative pain intensity, and early soft tissue healing evaluated using the Early Healing Index. Results: Procedures involving osteotomy were associated with significantly longer surgical duration, as well as greater postoperative swelling and trismus during the early postoperative period. The most pronounced difference in swelling was observed along facial measurement line A on postoperative day 3. Multivariable analysis confirmed that osteotomy remained independently associated with increased postoperative swelling and trismus after adjustment for age, sex, and the original six-arm treatment allocation. In contrast, no statistically significant differences were found between the groups in postoperative pain intensity or early soft tissue healing. Conclusions: Osteotomy during mandibular third molar extraction is independently associated with increased early postoperative morbidity, particularly in terms of swelling and trismus. However, bone removal does not appear to negatively affect early soft tissue healing of the surgical site. Full article

Impacted mandibular third-molar surgery commonly causes early postoperative pain, swelling, and trismus. This randomized, controlled, three-arm parallel trial evaluated whether intra-alveolar corticosteroid delivery via an absorbable gelatin sponge improves postoperative recovery compared with a saline control. Fifty-five patients were assessed for eligibility; 37 healthy adults (18–35 years) undergoing standardized mandibular third-molar extraction were randomized to dexamethasone 8 mg (Decort^®), methylprednisolone 40 mg (Prednol^®), or control (saline), all applied intra-alveolarly using a gelatin sponge carrier. Doses were selected using standard systemic glucocorticoid equivalence tables as a pragmatic potency reference, acknowledging unknown intra-alveolar pharmacokinetics/bioavailability. The prespecified primary endpoint (used for sample size planning) was postoperative Day 1 VAS pain; key secondary endpoints were Day 1 analgesic consumption and Day 3 facial swelling. Pain (VAS), analgesic use, trismus, and facial swelling (tragus–pogonion, tragus–labial commissure, and angulus–canthus distances) were assessed on postoperative Days 1, 2, 3, and 7 by a blinded evaluator. Two participants in the methylprednisolone group did not attend postoperative visits. To address potential attrition bias, an Intention-to-Treat (ITT) sensitivity analysis using conservative control-median imputation was performed alongside the available-case analyses. A global False Discovery Rate (FDR) correction was also applied to control for multiplicity. In both analyses, the steroid groups showed lower Day 1 pain scores than the control group. Methylprednisolone was associated with lower Day 3 swelling values than control for the tragus–pogonion and angulus–canthus measurements. These findings should be interpreted as preliminary, given the small sample size, linear swelling measurements, and lack of blinding verification. Full article

Objectives: This study aimed to investigate preventive management strategies and optimal intervention timing for dental ankylosis of primary teeth complicated by suspected pre-eruptive intracoronal resorption (PEIR), providing an evidence-based framework for clinical diagnosis and management. Methods: This case retrospectively reports a 7-year-old patient with an ankylosed mandibular left second primary molar (tooth 75), exhibiting radiographic features suggestive of pre-eruptive intracoronal resorption. The patient was in the mixed dentition stage with dental crowding. Preventive and interceptive orthodontic management was implemented to address space deficiency and guide occlusal development. The timing of extraction and space maintenance of tooth 75 was guided by space regaining, PEIR lesion progression, and crown development of tooth 35. Results: The permanent successor of tooth 75 (tooth 35) erupted successfully, dental crowding was alleviated, and a favorable occlusion was established. Conclusions: Early diagnosis and timely, individualized intervention for ankylosed primary teeth play an important role in preventing malocclusion and promoting normal eruption of the permanent successor tooth. Full article

Background: Advanced therapy medicinal products (ATMPs) require strict control of critical process parameters (CPPs) to ensure manufacturing efficiency. The relative impact of donor systemic factors, such as vitamin D status, versus technical process parameters on dental pulp-derived stem cell (DPSC) production remains unclear. Methods: In this prospective observational study, 250 adults undergoing extraction of impacted mandibular third molars were included. Dental pulp was processed under a standardized SOP using different preparation methods and enzyme conditions. Primary endpoints were serum 25(OH)D concentration and cell yield; secondary endpoints included number of passages and cryovials. Results: Mean 25(OH)D concentration was 30.1 ± 14.5 ng/mL and was higher in supplemented individuals (38.2 ± 14.0 vs. 25.6 ± 12.7 ng/mL; p < 0.0001) but was not associated with cell yield (ρ = 0.14, p = 0.168) or passages (ρ = 0.07, p = 0.406). In contrast, process parameters showed strong effects: scissor preparation resulted in a substantially higher yield than mechanical methods (median 5.00 vs. 1.00 million cells; p = 3.6 × 10⁻¹³), and type II collagenase was independently associated with a higher yield (+2.04 million cells; p = 0.026). The number of passages was the strongest predictor of yield (β = 2.28 million per passage; p < 10⁻²⁶). Post-thaw viability remained high (mean 90.1% and range 81–98%). Conclusions: Manufacturing efficiency of DPSCs is primarily determined by critical process parameters, particularly preparation method, enzyme selection, and passage control, whereas donor vitamin D status did not significantly influence outcomes under the studied SOP. These findings highlight process standardization as the key driver of reproducible ATMP manufacturing. Full article

Objective: This study aimed to assess the psychosocial impact of stainless steel crowns (SSCs) among primary school children in Dammam, Saudi Arabia, focusing on bullying experiences, child satisfaction, and parental perception. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted in June 2025 among 123 children (mean age 7.8 years; 52% male) from two randomly selected schools. Schools were chosen using simple random sampling from a Ministry of Education-approved list. All children aged 6–10 years with at least one SSC placed for six months or more were eligible. A validated, self-administered questionnaire completed by children and their parents assessed bullying related to SSCs, satisfaction with the crown’s appearance, and perceived impact. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, Chi-square tests, and logistic regression to evaluate associations between variables (p < 0.05). Results: Bullying was reported by 39.0% of children, primarily verbal (58.1%), followed by social exclusion (29.1%). Although gender differences in bullying were not statistically significant (p = 0.829), boys more often reported nickname-based teasing (p < 0.001). Only 35.0% of children were satisfied with the crown’s shape and 29.3% with its color. Nearly half (48.8%) felt uncomfortable when asked about it. In contrast, parental satisfaction was higher (69.1%), though only 42.3% believed their child had fully accepted the crown. Conclusions: While SSCs are clinically effective and accepted by most parents, a notable proportion of children experience bullying and aesthetic dissatisfaction. These findings highlight the need for child-centered care and consideration of esthetic alternatives. Full article

The growing consumption of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) in electronic devices and electric vehicles has led to a significant increase in waste containing valuable metals such as lithium and cobalt. Recovering these metals is essential to reducing dependence on primary sources and minimizing environmental impact. In this study, the leaching of the cathode active material from discarded LIBs was evaluated using oxaline, a deep eutectic solvent (DES) composed of oxalic acid and choline chloride in a 1:1 molar ratio. The process began with the collection, discharge, washing, drying, and dismantling of the LIBs, followed by the separation of their components. Subsequently, the cathode active material was characterized, revealing a primary composition of cobalt (54.5%) and lithium (6.5%), with the presence of LiCoO₂ confirmed by XRD analysis. Leaching experiments were conducted to evaluate the effects of temperature, time, and solid percentage, demonstrating that oxaline is effective for the selective leaching of lithium and cobalt. Under optimal conditions (90 °C, 1–2 wt.% cathode active material, 400 rpm), lithium underwent complete dissolution within the first hour, while cobalt achieved complete leaching by 4 h. Both metals were recovered as oxalates and separated based on differences in solubility. Oxaline proves to be an efficient and environmentally friendly alternative for the selective recovery of lithium and cobalt from LIB waste, supporting a circular economy in the management of critical metals. Full article

Slovenia is among the few countries where the olm, Proteus anguinus, is found, with its habitat largely coinciding with Natura 2000 sites. In these regions, various agricultural and food-processing activities, including the dairy industry, have developed. Krepko, a dairy facility, is situated directly within the olm’s habitat. Current legislation prohibits the direct discharge of dairy wastewater into the environment and mandates prior treatment. This study examined the primary treatment phase, specifically the chemical processing steps of neutralisation, coagulation, and flocculation. Field jar tests, pH measurements, and laboratory analyses of chemical oxygen demand (COD) were employed to assess the effectiveness of various chemicals. The findings indicate that sodium hydroxide with higher molarity enables faster and more stable neutralization, while polyaluminum coagulants and acidic flocculants are more effective than traditional reagents in reducing COD. The optimised chemical treatment process substantially reduced the organic load of wastewater and, consequently, the potential impacts on karst habitats. The improved treatment system represents a significant advancement in reducing pressure on karst water resources and protecting the habitat of the olm, thereby contributing to the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), and SDG 15 (Life on Land). Full article

Underutilized leafy greens are considered as functional plant species primarily due to their resilience to abiotic stress factors, low nutrient requirements, and high nutritional value. Over the past 30 years, many experiments have been conducted to identify nutrient-efficient species, cultivars, landraces, and ecotypes, but few have successfully entered mainstream agriculture. The integration of these species into advanced horticultural systems, such as hydroponics, has the potential to further strengthen their impact on sustainable agriculture by minimizing use of resources, enabling year-round cultivation, and improving the nutritional profile of the harvested produce. As leafy vegetables, a primary food safety concern is the accumulation of nitrates in the leaves. In hydroponics, this issue is usually addressed by balancing the NH₄-N/total-N ratio (N_r) in the nutrient solution. Provided that the plant responses to high ammonia supply are species-dependent, three wild leafy greens, iceplant, corn salad, and common purslane, were grown in a soilless culture, with perlite as the substrate, under low (0.04) and high (0.12) N_r on a molar basis. Additionally, the potential of protein hydrolysates (PH) and seaweed extracts (SW) to alleviate plant tolerance to excess ammonia supply was also investigated. In terms of yield, high N_r led to significant yield restrictions in iceplant that reached 28%, while on corn salad, it had a positive impact, with yield increasing by 18%. Both biostimulant applications enhanced iceplant productivity only under optimal N_r conditions (0.04). Apart from yield responses, biofertilizers had no substantial impact on the plant nutrient profile. In contrast, high N_r suppressed nitrate accumulation in fresh leaves, while enhancing micronutrient uptake in all three plant species. In conclusion, this study highlights the pivotal role of biostimulants as plant stress protectors and growth regulators and identifies the optimal N_r ratio for maximizing the yield and quality performance of corn salad, iceplant, and common purslane in soilless cultivation systems. Full article

Background: Dental eruption pathways could be influenced by several factors, both general and local, with different prevalence and morbidity. This study aims to report our experience of pediatric impacted teeth due to local factors, with the exclusion of the third molars, illustrating their prevalence, diagnostic and therapeutic pathways, and treatment outcomes. Methods: The inclusion criteria were minor age (<18 years) and the presence of impacted teeth due to a local cause, excluding wisdom teeth. The complete diagnostic and therapeutic procedures and their outcomes were described. The relationship between the treatment and the outcomes was assessed with a chi-square test. Results: One hundred twelve patients with a single impaction were included in the study. The local causes of single impaction were: 63 odontogenic cysts (57%), 24 supernumerary teeth (21%), 17 odontogenic tumors (15%), and eight primary bone lesions (7%). During the follow-up period, 83 teeth erupted spontaneously 12–36 months following surgery (74%), 12 were extracted during surgery (11%), and 17 needed orthodontic traction to achieve their aesthetic and functional position (15%). The relationship between mini-invasive surgery and spontaneous eruption was significant (p < 0.00001). Conclusions: Within the limitations of this study, mini-invasive surgical treatment preceded by a correct diagnosis may lead to a spontaneous eruption of permanent teeth, avoiding further orthodontic intervention and premature loss of permanent teeth. Full article

Transforming H₂O and CO₂ into solar fuels like syngas is crucial for future sustainable transportation fuel production. Therefore, the MgFe₂O₄/CO₂ splitting cycle was thermodynamically scrutinized to estimate its solar-to-fuel energy conversion efficiency in this investigation. The thermodynamic data required to solve the modeling equations were obtained using the HSC Chemistry program. The reduction non-stoichiometry was assumed to be equal to 0.1 for all computations. One of the study’s primary goals was to examine the impact of the inert sweep gas’s molar flow rate on the process parameters related to the MgFe₂O₄/CDS cycle. Overall, it was understood that the effect of the inert sweep gas’s molar flow rate on the thermal reduction temperature was significant when it increased from 10 to 40 mol/s compared to the rise from 40 to 100 mol/s. The energy needed to reduce MgFe₂O₄ increased slightly due to the surge in the inert sweep gas’s molar flow rate. In contrast, the energy penalty for heating MgFe₂O_4-δred from the re-oxidation to thermal reduction temperature significantly decreased. Including gas-to-gas heat exchangers with a gas-to-gas heat recovery effectiveness equal to 0.5 helped reduce the energy demand for heating the inert sweep gas. Overall, although the rise in the inert sweep gas’s molar flow rate from 10 to 100 mol/s caused a drop in the thermal reduction temperature by 180 K, the total solar energy needed to drive the cycle was increased by 85.7 kW. Accordingly, the maximum solar-to-fuel energy conversion efficiency (13.1%) was recorded at an inert sweep gas molar flow rate of 10 mol/s, which decreased by 3.7% when it was increased to 100 mol/s. Full article

This study investigates the synthesis and properties of innovative poly(oligo(alkylene glycol)) methacrylate hydrogels synthesized via gamma radiation-induced copolymerization and the crosslinking of oligo(ethylene glycol) methacrylate (OEGMA) and oligo(propylene glycol) methacrylate (OPGMA) at varying mole fractions. Our primary objective is to investigate the impact of copolymerization on the swelling properties of P(OEGMA/OPGMA) hydrogels compared to their homopolymeric counterparts, namely, POEGMA and POPGMA, which exhibit distinct volume phase transition temperatures (VPTTs) of around 70 and 13 °C, respectively, under physiological conditions. To this end, a comprehensive library of smart methacrylate-based hydrogel biomaterials was developed, featuring detailed data on their swelling behavior across different copolymer molar ratios and physiological temperature ranges. To achieve these objectives, we conducted swelling behavior analysis across a wide range of temperatures, assessed the pH sensitivity of hydrogels, utilized scanning electron microscopy for morphological characterization, performed in vitro biocompatibility assessment through cell viability and hemolysis assays, and employed diclofenac sodium as a model drug to control drug delivery testing. Our findings demonstrate that the newly synthesized P(OEGMA₄₀/OPGMA₆₀) copolymeric hydrogel exhibits desirable characteristics, with VPTT close to the physiological temperatures required for controlled drug delivery applications. Full article

Background: Dental impaction requires careful consideration prior to extraction. Factors influencing the decision to extract an impacted tooth include the depth of impaction, proximity to vital structures, patient age, systemic conditions, and compliance. The eruption of third molars often presents periodontal challenges for adjacent second molars, with studies identifying a link between third molar presence and periodontal defects. Orthopantomography (OPG) is the primary diagnostic tool, providing a low-radiation, quick, and comprehensive view of the dental arches. Computed tomography (CT) offers additional three-dimensional information for a more accurate anatomical evaluation. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the periodontal status of the lower second molar after lower third molar extraction, considering both periodontal and orthodontic perspectives. Methods: Conducted at the University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, this study evaluated changes in the periodontal status of the lower second molar at least 12 months after lower third molar extraction. A total of 53 patients meeting the inclusion criteria underwent surgical extraction. Clinical and radiographic evaluations were performed, analyzing parameters such as impaction type, angulation, and preoperative conditions. Results: The results suggest reduced healing in cases involving horizontal impacted third molars, although the small sample size limits statistical significance. These results align with the existing literature emphasizing better healing outcomes in young individuals undergoing early extraction. Conclusions: This pilot study highlights the periodontal implications of lower third molar extraction and underscore the potential benefits of early intervention for certain impaction types. Future research with larger sample sizes and a more detailed analysis of complications could provide deeper insights into the periodontal and orthodontic consequences of third molar management. Full article

Objectives: This double-blind, randomized clinical trial aimed to evaluate the impact of 2 g of pre-operative amoxicillin on postoperative clinical outcomes and salivary prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) concentration following mandibular third molar removal. Methods: Eighteen healthy adult patients requiring impacted mandibular third molar extraction were randomly assigned to two groups: an experimental group (EG) receiving 2 g of amoxicillin and a placebo group (PG) receiving empty capsules, one hour before the surgery and before taking the first saliva sample. Primary outcomes measured were pain levels at different time points and salivary PGE2 concentrations measured before, 24 h, and 7 days after the surgery, while secondary outcomes included changes in maximum mouth opening (MMO) immediately after the surgery at 1 day and a week post-surgery, and facial swelling at 24 h and 7 days post-surgery. Results: The results showed no significant differences between the EG and PG in terms of pain levels, salivary PGE2 concentration, MMO changes, or facial swelling at different time points (p-values > 0.05). One instance of surgical site infection was noted in the PG in the 7-day follow-up session, but it was not statistically significant (p-value = 0.303). Correlation analyses indicated that a higher number of sutures and a higher difficulty index of surgery were associated with increased pain, while longer surgery duration and osteotomy were linked to more MMO changes and facial swelling (p-values < 0.05). In addition, while longer surgery duration and performing tooth section were correlated with lower PGE2 concentrations, PGE2 concentrations were positively correlated with pain levels (p-values < 0.05). Conclusions: Based on the results of this study, administering 2 g of prophylactic amoxicillin did not significantly affect postoperative clinical or laboratory outcomes in healthy patients undergoing mandibular third molar surgery. Full article

Caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) represents a valuable ester of caffeic acid, which, over time, has demonstrated remarkable pharmacological properties. In general, the ester is obtained in organic solvents, especially by the esterification reaction of caffeic acid (CA) and 2-phenylethanol (PE). In this context, the purpose of this study was the use of the “one pot” system to synthesize CAPE through biocatalysis with various lipases in a choline-chloride-based DES system, employing the “2-in-1” concept, where one of the substrates functions as both reactant and solvent. The synthesis process of CAPE is contingent on the molar ratio between CA and PE; thus, this factor was the primary subject of investigation, with different molar ratios of CA and PE being studied. Furthermore, the impact of temperature, time, the nature of the biocatalyst, and the water loading of the DES system was also examined. This ‘green’ synthesis method, which has demonstrated encouraging reaction yields (%), could secure and maintain the therapeutic potential of CAPE, mainly due to the non-toxic character of the reaction medium. Full article

Background: Inflammation in the periapical area of primary teeth can affect the development and eruption of permanent teeth. In an asymptomatic course, they are detected accidentally during routine examinations. In such cases, they often reach significant dimensions and cause irreversible changes. Methods: This report presents the case of a 9-year-old boy with a radicular cyst in the mandible, resulting in the displacement of both premolar tooth buds. To address the inflammation, facilitate the proper eruption of the impacted teeth, and prevent adjacent teeth from shifting, the primary molars were extracted. Marsupialization was performed under general anesthesia, followed by the fabrication and placement of an obturator. Results: Two months after treatment, the displaced tooth buds began aligning along the natural eruption pathway. By the 8-month follow-up, the premolars had successfully erupted into their proper positions in the oral cavity. Conclusions: Marsupialization combined with the use of an obturator is an effective first-line treatment for radicular cysts in pediatric patients, offering a conservative approach that promotes natural tooth eruption while preserving the surrounding dentition. Full article