Search Results (649)

Background/Objectives: Oral function impairment negatively impacts nutrition, health, and quality of life in older adults. While retaining ≥20 natural teeth is often recommended for maintaining oral function, its validity is uncertain, particularly for those who adapt to tooth loss with dentures. This study aimed to determine the minimum number of remaining functional teeth necessary to prevent oral hypofunction in older adults, focusing on two diagnostic criteria: decreased masticatory function and reduced occlusal force. Methods: A total of 154 participants (≥60 years) were included. Oral examination assessed the number of remaining functional teeth. To assess masticatory function, masticatory performance was objectively measured using a visual scoring method of gummy jelly, and occlusal force was quantified with pressure-sensitive film. Pearson’s correlation analyzed relationships among variables, while receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis identified optimal tooth number cut-offs for detecting decreased masticatory function (score ≤ 2) and reduced occlusal force (<500 N). Results: Significant positive correlations were found between the number of remaining functional teeth and both masticatory performance (r = 0.591, p < 0.001) and occlusal force (r = 0.453, p < 0.001). ROC indicated that 17 teeth was the optimal threshold for identifying both decreased masticatory performance and reduced occlusal force, with sensitivities of 0.79 and 0.72 and specificities of 0.93 and 0.88, respectively. Conclusions: Retention of 17 or more remaining functional teeth may be sufficient to maintain adequate masticatory performance and occlusal force. These findings serves as a preliminary guide for treatment planning and targeted interventions focused on preserving tooth retention and improving oral function in aging populations. Full article

One of the main obstacles to producing natural rubber-modified asphalt is the difficulty of mixing Technical Specification Natural Rubber (TSNR) or its compounds with asphalt, leading to long mixing times and high costs. This study aims to evaluate the use of 60/70 penetration asphalt as a plasticizer to accelerate the mixing process and improve the rheological properties of modified asphalt using Technical Specification Natural Rubber (TSNR). The production process for technical specification natural rubber-modified asphalt involves two stages: the production of the technical specification natural rubber compound (CTSNR) and the production of CTSNR-based modified asphalt (CTSNRMA). The CTSNR production process begins with mastication of technical specification natural rubber (TSNR), followed by the addition of activators (zinc oxide, stearic acid), accelerators (Mercaptobenzothiazole sulfenamide (MBTS)), antioxidants (2,2,4-Trimethyl-1,2-dihydroquinoline (TMQ)), and 60/70 penetration asphalt as a plasticizer (at concentrations of 30%, 40%, and 50%). After homogeneous mixing for 30–60 min, the CTSNR is diluted 5–10 mm for the next mixing stage with hot asphalt at 160–170 °C. The best results of this study showed that CTSNR-modified asphalt with 4% rubber content and 50% plasticizer (CTSNRM-450) successfully reduced the mixing time to 16 min, making it more efficient than the traditional method, which takes up to 180 min. The addition of asphalt plasticizer decreased penetration to 35.6 dmm and increased the softening point to 55.4 °C. The CTSNRMA-440 formula, with 4% rubber content and 40% plasticizer, produced the best results in terms of storage stability, meeting the ASTM D5892 standard with a softening-point difference of 0.95 °C, which is well below the threshold of 2.2 °C. The CTSNRMA-440 sample achieved a Performance Grade (PG) of 76, suitable for hot-climate conditions, with a significant reduction in mixing time, greater stability, and increased resistance to high temperatures. Full article

Traffic noise is one of the main sources of environmental problems and a growing challenge for national traffic authorities. It is widely accepted that tire-pavement interaction is the main cause of traffic noise at speeds between 40 and 90 km/h. Typically, noise attenuation strategies include earthworks, tree belts, or noise barriers. However, a solution that is almost always viable is the use of low-noise pavements, which are characterized by their porous macrotexture, such as Stone Mastic Asphalt (SMA) mixtures. These mixtures are increasingly used for heavy traffic volumes because of their many advantages, including drainage properties and mechanical strength. Based on the experimental results obtained on different roads in southern Spain, this paper compares noise reduction in an SMA standard mixture due to the incorporation of different additives, such as crumb rubber and polymeric additives. According to the analysis, increasing the additives content by 1% reduces CPX by 1.18 decibels, approximately, and none of the analyzed sections shows increases greater than 3 dB within 24 months. Additionally, the paper proposes design recommendations regarding macrotexture and the percentage of voids for zones with warm, dry climates, such as Mediterranean Spain. Full article

This study investigates the industrial validation of a granular additive derived from waste tire textile fibers (WTTF) developed to replace the conventional cellulose stabilizing additive in stone mastic asphalt (SMA) mixtures while enhancing their mechanical performance. Building on previous laboratory-scale findings, this work evaluates the feasibility and mechanical behavior of this recycled-fiber additive under real asphalt-plant production conditions, advancing a sustainable solution aligned with circular economy principles. Three asphalt mixtures were fabricated in a batch plant: a reference SMA (SMA-R) containing a commercial cellulose additive, an SMA incorporating the WTTF additive (SMA-F), and a reference hot mix asphalt (HMA-R). The WTTF additive was incorporated in a 1:1 proportion relative to the cellulose additive. Performance was assessed through tests of cracking resistance (Fénix test), stiffness modulus, fatigue resistance (four-point bending test), moisture susceptibility (ITSR), and resistance to permanent deformation (Hamburg wheel tracking). Industrial validation results showed that the SMA-F mixture met the design criteria and achieved superior mechanical performance relative to the reference mixtures. In particular, SMA-F exhibited greater ductility and toughness at low temperatures, reduced susceptibility to moisture-induced damage, and higher fatigue resistance, with an increase in fatigue durability of up to 44% compared to SMA-R. The results confirm that the WTTF additive is both feasible and scalable for industrial production, offering a solution that not only improves pavement mechanical performance but also promotes the valorization of a challenging waste material. Full article

Background: The time from mastication to swallowing is used as an indicator of masticatory and swallowing functions. However, there have been no reports on reasonable eating times associated with eating satisfaction. Clarifying the reasonable time for eating and drinking to achieve eating satisfaction will indicate the level of mastication and swallowing functions that contributes to maintaining an individual’s quality of life. Objective: This study aimed to determine the time from food intake to the end of swallowing that is associated with eating satisfaction. Methods: A cross-sectional survey of 437 community-dwelling older people was conducted. Mastication and swallowing times (SST-MST) were measured using the Saku-Saku Test with a 2 g rice cracker. Food intake difficulty and eating satisfaction were evaluated using a questionnaire. The association between the SST-MST and the difficulty in eating food or eating satisfaction was assessed by sensitivity, specificity, Youden index, sensitivity–specificity ratio, positive likelihood ratio, negative likelihood ratio, odds ratio, and 95% confidence interval. Results: Most indices indicated that a cutoff point of 25 s on the SST-MST was associated with not having difficulty in eating food items. Moreover, when the SST-MST cutoff was set to 25 s, all indices showed a favorable association with eating satisfaction. Conclusions: In community-dwelling older people in their 70s and 80s, an SST-MST of about 25 s for 2 g of rice crackers was modestly associated with eating satisfaction. Full article

Mastication trait is an important indicator for evaluating citrus fruit texture and may modulate the biological activity of citrus polysaccharides. This study compared the protective effects of pulp polysaccharides from citrus fruit with different mastication traits, namely Hongmeiren (HMR, superior), Satsuma (WM, moderate), and Nanfeng tangerine (NF, inferior mastication trait) on ulcerative colitis (UC) in mice. All polysaccharides alleviated UC symptoms, with HMR showing the most pronounced effects by more markedly reducing TNF-α levels, while enhancing IL-10, ZO-1, Occludin, and MUC2 expression. NF exhibited a stronger inhibitory effect on IL-6. Microbiota analysis revealed that citrus polysaccharides suppressed Escherichia–Shigella and Helicobacter, enriched Akkermansia and norank_f_Muribaculaceae, and promoted short-chain fatty acid production, particularly of propionate and butyrate. LEfSe analysis further indicated that HMR selectively enriched Dubosiella and norank_o_Clostridia_UCG-014, WM increased the abundance of Lachnospiraceae_NK4A136_group, and NF promoted the growth of Parabacteroides. Overall, HMR with superior mastication trait exhibited the greatest efficacy in attenuating inflammation and maintaining intestinal homeostasis. These findings reveal an intrinsic link between citrus mastication traits and their colitis-alleviating activity, offering a mechanistic basis for dietary intervention in inflammatory bowel disease as well as for functional citrus breeding. Full article

Mandibular prognathism (Class III malocclusion) is a craniofacial anomaly characterized by an anteriorly positioned mandible, a concave facial profile and impaired mastication, and appears unusually frequently in Dolang sheep (Ovis aries). We combined clinical phenotyping and three-dimensional (3D) genome profiling to investigate this trait in a Dolang sheep flock. We examined 959 animals using standardized criteria, estimated a local prevalence of 10.3%, and assembled a 200 affected/200 unaffected case–control cohort for genomic analyses. As an exploratory pilot study of 3D genome architecture, we generated in situ Hi-C datasets from mandibular bone of two affected and two control sheep. At 40 kb resolution, global topologically associating domain (TAD) organization and boundary strength were broadly conserved between groups, but sliding-window analyses identified a small number of 1 Mb hotspots where affected animals showed increased TAD-boundary density and strengthened insulation. These UNDER-enriched windows lay near genes with plausible roles in craniofacial development, including ROBO2, COL27A1, VRK2 and a cytokine cluster (IL22/IL26/IFNG with MDM1). Together, our data indicate that mandibular prognathism in Dolang sheep is associated with localized remodeling of chromatin insulation at a restricted set of gene-proximal loci and highlight candidate regions and mechanisms for integration with whole-genome sequencing, association and transcriptomic data. Full article

This study investigates the influence of synthetic fibers and rubber powder derived from end-of-life tires (ELTs) on the rheological behavior of asphalt mastics composed of paving-grade bitumen and mineral filler. Nine asphalt mastic formulations were prepared with varying fiber and rubber contents, reflecting the composition of stone mastic asphalt mixtures. Dynamic shear rheometer tests were conducted to assess dynamic stiffness modulus, phase angle, non-recoverable creep compliance, and elastic recovery. The results demonstrated that ELT-derived additives significantly enhanced high-temperature stiffness and elasticity, while maintaining satisfactory viscoelastic balance at lower temperatures. Synergistic effects between fibers and rubber were observed, improving both non-recoverable compliance and percent recovery, particularly at elevated shear stresses. Prolonged exposure to production temperatures (175 °C) confirmed the thermal stability of the modified mastics, with the most notable performance gains occurring during the first hour of heating. Based on the findings, it was concluded that ELT-based fiber–rubber additives can improve high-temperature performance of asphalt mastics without negative effects in intermediate and, possibly, also low service temperatures. This permits expanding the use cases for these kinds of additives beyond the role of inert stabilizers in stone mastic asphalt to an active modifier for extending asphalt mix performance. Full article

Objectives: This non-randomized and self-selected controlled intervention study aimed to examine the effects of simple nutritional guidance provided by registered dietitians on the oral function and body composition of patients in a general dental clinic in Japan. Methods: Among patients aged ≥50 years who visited a single dental clinic for regular maintenance, those who accepted and declined nutritional guidance were classified as being in the “guidance group (G group)” and “nonguidance group (nG group)”, respectively. The oral moisture content, masticatory performance, tongue/lip motor function, maximum tongue pressure, and swallowing function were assessed. Additionally, we assessed 10 body composition parameters using a body composition analyzer. Patients in the G group received monthly nutritional guidance from a registered dietician. At 3 months, changes in oral function and body composition were examined and between-group comparison in changes in dietary habits was performed. Results: A two-way analysis of variance revealed a main effect of time and an interaction between time and group for oral function only, and improvements in masticatory performance scores, maximum tongue pressure, and swallowing function were observed in the G group (n = 20). Compared with the nG group (n = 18), the G group had a significantly higher proportion of participants with a reported increase in the variety and amount of consumed food. Conclusions: Although this is the preliminary trial with a small sample and high risk biases, our findings suggest the possibility that 3 months of nutritional guidance at a general dental clinic in Japan may improve oral function. Full article

Polyethylene (PE) films are widely used as waterproofing materials on the surfaces of metal pipelines. Poor adhesion of PE films to a metal substrate reduces durability, leading to shorter service life and higher economic costs. The current research aims to study the modification of PE films in atmospheric pressure gliding arc plasma (GAP). The adhesion properties of the modified films were investigated using the contact angle method and adhesion work calculations. During the modification process, the GAP treatment duration and deflector nozzle angle of attack were optimized to 10 s and 135°, respectively. It was established that the adhesion work increased from 62.1 to 141.3 mJ/m² after 10 s GAP modification compared to untreated PE. GAP modifying of PE films for 30 s or more is impractical, as the increase in the adhesion work ceases after that. It was found that surface roughness R_max increased by up to 4.1 times after 10 s GAP modification compared with nontreated PE. The PE films acquired hydrophilic properties after plasma modification, due to changes in the polymer surface’s chemical structure. The results of IR spectroscopy studies indicated oxidation of the film surface, an increase in the concentration of surface polar groups (-COOH, OH, C=O), and the formation of double bonds (C=C), which led to improved adhesive properties. A study of the electret properties showed that the observed decline and subsequent stabilization of values occurred within the first 24 h. Mechanical tests indicated improved performance of the GAP-modified PE films compared to the non-treated ones in the PE–mastic–PE and PE–mastic–steel systems. Due to their enhanced contact properties, the modified PE films are of interest as a base material for creating waterproofing materials. Full article

Background/Objectives: Pathological tooth loss resulting from poor oral hygiene or systemic diseases can lead to partial edentulism, affecting patients both psychologically and physically. These consequences include facial height reduction, temporomandibular dysfunction, and impaired phonetics and mastication. Immediate complete dentures are often an effective provisional solution during the transition to full edentulism; however, establishing the occlusal plane can be challenging when remaining teeth prevent a conventional wax try-in. This clinical case aims to present a qualitative clinical case study of a single patient, illustrating the use of the Broadrick Occlusal Plane Analyzer (BOPA) for the establishment of an occlusal plane in harmony with the anterior and condylar guidance. Methods: A 51-year-old male patient presented to the Department of Prosthodontics at the School of Dentistry, Autonomous University of Guadalajara, with partial edentulism, periodontal disease, and generalized Grade III tooth mobility. Immediate maxillary and mandibular complete dentures were selected as the treatment of choice. Due to the presence of remaining teeth that hindered clinical determination of the occlusal plane, the BOPA was used during the denture design process. Results: Anatomical landmarks were combined with BOPA tracing to establish an occlusal plane harmonious with anterior and condylar guidance. The center of the curve was modified to accommodate anatomic variability in anteroposterior reference points. Conclusions: The use of the Broadrick Occlusal Plane Analyzer facilitated the accurate determination of the occlusal plane for the fabrication of immediate complete dentures in a patient where clinical assessment was limited. This modification allowed the establishment of a bilateral balanced occlusal scheme, contributing to functional and acceptable provisional oral rehabilitation during postoperative alveolar healing. Full article

Facial asymmetry significantly affects aesthetic appearance, essential functions such as mastication and speech, and psychological well-being. While traditional surgical interventions effectively address significant facial asymmetry, they are often associated with considerable morbidity, prolonged recovery periods, and potential complications. Consequently, interest in minimally invasive, non-surgical techniques has substantially increased, driven by advantages including reduced downtime, rapid recovery, and immediate aesthetic results. This narrative review critically evaluates contemporary non-surgical techniques for correcting facial asymmetry, focusing specifically on dermal fillers, collagen stimulators (polydioxanone powder), polydioxanone thread lifting, energy-based non-invasive devices (radiofrequency, ultrasound, and laser therapies), and extracorporeal shockwave therapy. The review is based on a structured literature search of PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, and Google Scholar up to October 2025, focusing on human clinical studies and review articles on non-surgical correction of facial asymmetry and related facial contouring. We provide a detailed analysis of each treatment modality’s underlying mechanisms, clinical efficacy, advantages, limitations, and safety profiles. Current evidence suggests that these non-surgical methods effectively enhance facial symmetry by offering immediate visible improvements and progressive enhancements through natural collagen regeneration, thereby significantly improving patient satisfaction and overall quality of life. Clinicians are encouraged to incorporate these versatile, minimally invasive interventions into clinical practice, carefully tailoring treatments according to individual patient characteristics and specific aesthetic goals. Further research should aim to refine existing treatment protocols, evaluate long-term efficacy and safety, and establish standardized guidelines to optimize outcomes in facial asymmetry correction. Full article

Climate change, a natural phenomenon driven by anthropogenic interventions, represents a global challenge that requires immediate and effective action. Significant alterations in atmospheric parameters and the occurrence of extreme climatic events have become increasingly evident. To evaluate extreme climate conditions and their variations within a specific region, climate data spanning at least five decades is essential. This study focuses on assessing the impacts of climate change on the island of Chios, with particular emphasis on its influence on the cultivation and harvesting of mastic gum, a unique product derived from the Pistacia lentiscus var. chia tree. Using ClimDex and analyzing 29 climate indices from 1960 to 2024, this paper evaluates historical and current climatic conditions. Key climate phenomena, such as the number of days with very high or low temperatures, extreme rainfall events, daily temperature variations, frost days, and days exceeding 25 °C—widely recognized indicators of climate change—are documented and correlated. Full article

Numerical modeling of asphalt concrete and other asphalt mixes used in road engineering is an actively developed research field. In this study, a framework combining the following aspects is presented: (1) reliable reconstruction of the real samples; (2) using realistic material models of the microstructure constituents; and (3) providing high numerical efficiency. Asphalt concrete microstructure was reconstructed using image processing. The Burgers material model was applied to the subdomains identified as the mastic, and the linear elastic model was used for the aggregate particles. In order to increase the numerical efficiency, the developed homogenization method was used to accelerate the finite element analysis. The main novelty of this study is the integration of the Burgers material model with the numerical homogenization in the small strains range. A homogenization error measured in the maximum norm was smaller than 7% in the presented numerical examples (6.8% for the elasticity and 6.9% for the viscoelasticity problem, respectively). Simultaneously, the observed reduction in the number of degrees of freedom was larger than 510 times. The obtained results confirmed the applicability of the developed methodology to the analysis of the viscoelastic materials in the range of the small strains. Full article

Vital pulp therapy (VPT) seeks to preserve pulp vitality by using biocompatible with regenerative potential. This study tested the hypothesis that an injectable gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA) hydrogel containing piezoelectric barium titanate promotes odontogenic differentiation of dental pulp stem cells (DPSC) significantly better than a commercially available tricalcium silicate material used for vital pulp therapy. First, the light-curable, injectable piezoelectric hydrogel was engineered and characterized for its physicomechanical, piezoelectric properties and biocompatibility to DPSCs. The effect of this gel on the odontogenic differentiation of DPSCs was determined by measuring the expression level of key genes, compared to Biodentine XP. The hydrogel exhibited excellent injectability (<1 kgf of force), mechanical stability, and generated physiologically relevant voltages under cyclic loading mimicking mastication. MTT and ROS assays show no cytotoxic or damaging oxidative stress effects. When DPSCs were cultured over the materials under cyclic loading, the piezoelectric hydrogel significantly enhanced cell viability and upregulated COL1A1, DSPP, and DMP1 expression compared to Biodentine XP and non-piezoelectric hydrogel controls. These findings establish piezoelectric hydrogel as a self-powered, bioactive platform that converts physiological forces into regenerative bioelectric cues, offering a promising next-generation material for vital pulp therapy. Full article