Search Results (12,667)

Cartilage is an important yet vulnerable tissue with limited self-healing capacity, where damage often progresses to joint degeneration, which eventually leads to severe osteoarthritis (OA). Current tissue engineering strategies focus on biocompatible scaffolds for cartilage regeneration, particularly amnion (or amniotic membrane), emerging as a promising biomaterial due to its wide availability, low immunogenicity, and naturally derived microenvironment that is advantageous for cartilage regeneration. This systematic review aims to evaluate the existing evidence on the efficacy of amnion as a tissue scaffolding material for cartilage regeneration in both preclinical and clinical studies. Using terms such as “cartilage damage”, “cartilage injuries”, “amnion” and “amniotic membrane”, 19 relevant studies were identified across three major databases (PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science) until 25 December 2025. All preclinical and clinical studies that utilized amnion for cartilage repair or as cartilage tissue engineering scaffolding materials were included. Evidence quality was assessed using the OHAT and MINORS risk of bias tool. This study is prospectively registered in the PROSPERO database under the ID 1178444. The findings consistently indicate that amniotic scaffolds, regardless of processing methods or cell seeding, yield favorable outcomes without adverse effects across different species. In vitro analysis revealed that treatment groups with amnion show better cell attachment, viability, and proliferation, and higher content of cartilage-related markers expressed by the seeded cells, either chondrocyte, bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), adipose tissue-derived MSCs, placenta-derived MSCs, umbilical cord-derived MSCs, amniotic MSCs or amniotic epithelial cells. In in vivo and ex vivo studies, amnion-treated groups demonstrated improved quality of the treated cartilage, with better integration, as indicated by higher histological scores and the presence of type II collagen (COL-II). There was an inconsistency in the reporting of cartilage defect dimensions in the in vivo models across the different studies. Nevertheless, the outcome measurements were consistently reported with histological analysis, with or without International Cartilage Repair Society (ICRS) scoring and immunohistochemistry (IHC) analysis, across the studies. Clinically, most subjects show improvement in the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) Sports and Recreation score and KOOS Quality of Life score, as well as reduced Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) average and maximum pain scores. In conclusion, preclinical and clinical studies support amnion as an ideal scaffold material for cartilage tissue engineering and regeneration. Future research should focus on optimizing and standardizing amnion scaffold preparation at a production scale to facilitate the translation of these positive outcomes into clinical applications. This study is funded by the Ministry of Higher Education Malaysia via Prototype Research Grant Scheme (PRGS/1/2021/SKK01/UM/02/1) and UM International Collaboration Grant—2023 SATU Joint Research Scheme Program: ST007-2024. Full article

Purpose: To investigate whether an AI-based approach combining deep learning myocardial segmentation with attenuation-normalized myocardial mapping (colormaps) improves detection of myocardial ischemia and infarction on emergency ECG-gated CT angiography. Materials and Methods: In this retrospective study, 119 patients with acute chest pain who underwent ECG-gated CT angiography to exclude pulmonary embolism or acute aortic syndrome and invasive coronary angiography within 48 h were included. A deep learning model (nnU-Net) was used for automatic left-ventricular myocardial segmentation, serving as the basis for voxel-wise attenuation normalization to generate AI-based myocardial attenuation maps. Six readers with varying experience levels evaluated all cases for myocardial hypoattenuation in a multi-reader, multi-case design, with and without AI-generated attenuation maps. Results: AI-based myocardial attenuation mapping increased mean sensitivity for detection of myocardial ischemia or infarction by 12% [IQR 2–20%] compared with standard CT interpretation alone. Sensitivity improved by 15% [IQR 10–22%] in STEMI (ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction) and 11% [IQR −1–18%] in NSTEMI (Non-STEMI) cases. The AI-assisted approach resulted in the correct reclassification of 11% of patients and improved inter-reader agreement, particularly among less experienced readers, demonstrating reduced reader dependency. Conclusions: AI-based myocardial segmentation and attenuation mapping enhance the detection of myocardial ischemia and infarction on emergency CT angiography and improve inter-reader agreement. This AI-assisted image processing approach provides clinically meaningful decision support in acute chest pain imaging workflows. Full article

Growing demand for sustainable materials has intensified research into eco-friendly alternatives to conventional and synthetic leathers. Traditional bovine leather and its chromium-tanning process heavily contribute to water pollution, toxic waste generation, and carbon emissions, while synthetic leather derived from Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) and polyurethane (PU) presents challenges related to fossil fuel dependence and non-biodegradability. This review explores bio-based and sustainable leather substitutes that are made of plants, microbial cellulose, and mycelium fungi. Plant-based leather substitutes such as Vegea^®, Desserto^®, and Piñatex^® use agricultural waste products to create durable, partially biodegradable composites. Microbial cellulose from kombucha fermentation offers material with good physical and aesthetic properties. Mycelium leather, derived from fungal biomass, demonstrates potential for scalable and low-impact production. Comparative analyses of mechanical and physical properties show that mycelium composites are approaching industrial standards, though challenges remain regarding tensile strength, water resistance, and process standardization. Despite current limitations, bio-based leathers, particularly mycelium composites, offer a promising way toward circular material innovation and carbon-neutral manufacturing in fashion, automotive, design and other industries. Full article

Background and Objectives: Advances in digital dentistry, particularly CAD-CAM, have improved the efficiency and precision of crown design and fabrication. Recently, artificial intelligence (AI)-integrated CAD-CAM systems have enabled automated tooth morphology generation, margin detection, and occlusal analysis, enhancing consistency and accuracy. This systematic review evaluates the accuracy of AI-assisted crown design compared with conventional and CAD-CAM workflows. Materials and Methods: A systematic search was conducted across PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane, and LILACS for studies published between January 2010 and December 2025 that assessed the marginal fit, internal adaptation, and occlusal contact accuracy of single crowns. Screening, full-text assessment, and data extraction followed Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Methodological quality and risk of bias were evaluated using the Modified CONSORT checklist for in vitro studies and the Joanna Briggs Institute tools for clinical studies. Results: Of 887 records identified, 12 studies met the inclusion criteria. Nine studies showed a moderate risk of bias, two moderate-to-high, and one low-to-moderate. AI-assisted crown design demonstrated clinically acceptable internal fit and marginal adaptation, comparable or superior to CAD-CAM systems. Occlusal contact accuracy was generally comparable to CAD-CAM and technician-designed crowns, though variability was observed across AI models. Conclusions: AI-assisted crown design provides a reliable fit and marginal adaptation, with occlusal accuracy approaching conventional CAD-CAM and technician workflows. While not a replacement for clinical expertise, AI serves as a valuable adjunct, enhancing reproducibility, precision, and overall quality in restorative dentistry. Further standardized clinical studies are needed to validate long-term outcomes and optimize occlusal performance. Full article

Background and Objectives: Dental implant placement in grafted alveolar cleft sites has become an integral component of comprehensive cleft rehabilitation. However, survival outcomes vary across studies, and temporal trends in clinical performance have not been systematically quantified. This review aimed to evaluate implant survival in grafted alveolar cleft patients and to compare outcomes between early and modern treatment eras. Materials and Methods: A systematic search of the PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and Wiley databases was performed in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. Clinical studies reporting implant survival in grafted alveolar cleft sites with a minimum follow-up of 12 months were included. Data extraction encompassed implant survival, timing of placement, grafting protocols, and reported causes of failure. For temporal comparison, studies were stratified into an early era (1997–2008) and a modern era (2010–2026). Weighted pooled survival rates were calculated, and differences between proportions were assessed using a two-proportion Z-test (p < 0.05). Results: 18 studies met the inclusion criteria, representing 1561 implants placed in grafted alveolar cleft sites. Overall reported survival ranged from 80% to 100%. Weighted pooled survival increased from 91.2% (95% CI: 87.9–94.5) in early studies to 94.2% (95% CI: 92.9–95.5) in modern cohorts, demonstrating a statistically significant 3.0% absolute improvement (p = 0.038). Implant failures occurred predominantly during the early osseointegration phase and were commonly associated with insufficient graft volume or inadequate primary stability. Late biological complications were infrequently reported. Conclusions: When appropriate bone reconstruction, healing, and multidisciplinary coordination are achieved, implant therapy represents a reliable component of comprehensive cleft care. Further prospective studies with standardized protocols and long-term follow-up are needed to strengthen evidence-based recommendations. Full article

In fundamental physics, sensors operating below liquid helium temperatures are highly vulnerable to vibrations, which can affect the sensitivity, for example, of high-performance particle detectors. Pulse-tube refrigerators, while generating vibrations lower than those of conventional systems, may still introduce several disturbances. Hence, flexible thermal connections are a commonly used mechanical solution to mitigate these undesirable effects. Among the materials that can be used, ultra-high-purity aluminum (UHP-Al) has attracted the attention for low-amplitude-vibration cryogenic applications, including gravitational wave interferometry, quantum information systems, precision space instrumentation, and cryogenic resonators. Thus, the aim of the paper is the characterization of the mechanical and microstructure properties of three UHP-Als (i.e., 5N—99.999 wt%, 5N5—99.9995 wt% and 6N—99.9999 wt%) intended for the production of thermal flexible connections with low stiffness, specifically designed to reduce vibration transmission in cryogenic environments. Mechanical properties were evaluated through standard tensile tests from room (+25 °C) to low temperature (i.e., −150 °C), providing insights into yield strength, ultimate tensile strength, elongation and elastic modulus. In addition, the dynamic elastic modulus of material loads, at cryogenic conditions (i.e., about −180 °C), was determined by measuring the natural resonance frequency, thereby assessing the material’s response to vibrational. Moreover, an extensive microstructural analysis was conducted using electron backscatter diffraction and x-ray diffraction. The correlation between the observed microstructure and the elastic properties was systematically examined. The results underscore the pivotal role of microstructural characteristics in dictating the elastic behavior of UHP Als. Eventually, the analysis provides valuable guidelines for the materials employment inside cryogenic systems, where severe vibration control is critical to maintain high operational performance. Full article

Background/Objectives: This study developed and evaluated a BERT-assisted literature screening workflow to support meta-analyses of postradiotherapy complications in nasopharyngeal carcinoma patients. The aim was to automate key screening steps to improve downstream screening efficiency and consistency, while minimizing time and bias during manual reviews. Materials and Methods: A bidirectional encoder representations from transformers (BERT) model was integrated into a standard systematic review pipeline for studies on postradiotherapy complications in nasopharyngeal carcinoma. The workflow combined automated BERT-based classification with manual verification and followed PRISMA and PICOS guidelines for literature identification, screening, and eligibility assessment. Model training involved hyperparameter tuning and comparison of different optimizers to maximize screening performance against a manually curated reference set, with particular attention to discrimination (AUC) and processing time. Results: From an initial corpus of 6496 records, the combined automated and manual workflow identified 23 eligible studies for meta-analysis. The included studies showed substantial heterogeneity (I² = 86.85%), supporting the use of a random-effects model to pool outcomes. The BERT model optimized with an Adagrad optimizer achieved an AUC of 0.77 for relevant-study classification and reduced screening time to 1142 s. To demonstrate the workflow’s utility, a downstream meta-analysis was conducted using the identified studies. As a downstream application based on the identified studies, a quantitative synthesis was conducted, in which (meta-analysis of the 23 included studies), a random forest model—evaluated across those studies—achieved an AUC of 0.92 under a fixed-effect analysis for predicting postradiotherapy complications. Conclusions: Integrating BERT into the literature screening phase of meta-analysis for postradiotherapy nasopharyngeal carcinoma complications markedly improved screening efficiency while maintaining acceptable classification performance. This workflow demonstrates the feasibility of transformer-based assistance for systematic reviews and provides a foundation for developing disease-specific, AI-augmented evidence synthesis pipelines in oncology. Full article

The Distinctness, Uniformity, and Stability (DUS) testing guidelines for mung beans (Vigna radiata L.) offer a standardized framework for new variety assessment. Although these guidelines are essential for variety management, the actual efficiency and breeding value of the 31 specified DUS characteristics in improving yield potential remain largely underexplored and lack systematic validation. To address this critical research gap, 180 genetically diverse mung bean accessions were analyzed using principal component analysis (PCA) and correlation analysis. The results revealed intrinsic relationships among characteristics and identified key variation dimensions centered on “plant morphology”, “pod characteristics”, and “seed characteristics”. Cluster analysis classified the 180 accessions into four distinct clusters. Cluster 2, in particular, offers a clear selection reference for breeding materials targeting high-yield and quality. The DTOPSIS (Dynamic Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution) multi-criteria decision-making model was applied, with index weights assigned using an objective weighting method. Following systematic evaluation, Yingge 2 was identified as an outstanding phenotype. Breeders may refer to its quantitative characteristics in subsequent breeding cycles. Linear regression analysis was employed to construct a yield prediction model, identifying leaf greenness, pod number per plant, and hundred-grain weight as three core DUS characteristics with statistically significant effects on final yield (p < 0.05). This study performed a systematic, multi-dimensional analysis and comprehensive evaluation of mung bean germplasm resources based on DUS characteristics, with the aim of identifying key yield-related DUS traits, screen elite germplasm for high-yield breeding, and providing a theoretical basis and practical reference for the efficient improvement and selective breeding of new mung bean varieties. Full article

Hollow graphitic nanoshells (HGSs) are widely investigated as battery materials because their conductive shells and internal voids can simultaneously influence ion transport, electron percolation, and mechanical stress accommodation. Yet, the field remains largely morphology-driven, with performance often attributed generically to “hollowness” rather than to structural parameters. This review examines HGSs from a parameter-oriented perspective. It highlights key structural features, including graphitization degree, shell thickness, cavity size, pore architecture, and defect or dopant chemistry. These features collectively shape electrochemical behavior. We discuss how these features influence transport kinetics, interphase stability, volumetric efficiency, and mechanical resilience across insertion, metal anode, multivalent, solid-state, and halogen chemistries. Major synthesis approaches, including hard-templated, soft-templated, self-templated, and biomass-derived routes, are evaluated based on the structural control they provide and the influence of synthesis conditions on shell architecture, graphitic ordering, and pore structure. Special attention is given to how these structural features develop during processing and how they affect ion accessibility, conductivity, and stability. Finally, we outline a shift toward quantitative, parameter-driven engineering supported by operando diagnostics, electrode-level modeling, and standardized reporting. HGSs will only achieve practical relevance when structural optimization extends beyond particle morphology to transport uniformity, interfacial stability, network connectivity, and life-cycle responsibility. Full article

Pulmonary embolism (PE) is biologically heterogeneous. Despite guideline-directed anticoagulation, a subset of patients develops recurrent venous thromboembolism, persistent exertional limitation, residual perfusion defects, and progression to chronic thromboembolic pulmonary disease (CTEPD) or chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH). Conventional risk factors explain much of the index event but incompletely account for thrombus non-resolution and chronic sequelae. Clonal hematopoiesis of indeterminate potential (CHIP)—the age-associated expansion of hematopoietic clones carrying somatic mutations—defines a measurable thrombo-inflammatory endophenotype that is strongly genotype- and clone-size (variant allele frequency; VAF)-dependent. Across human studies, JAK2-CHIP and TET2-CHIP show the most consistent associations with VTE/PE, whereas isolated DNMT3A-CHIP is frequently neutral, and larger clones tend to confer stronger effects. Mechanistically, CHIP can bias myeloid cells toward inflammasome/IL-1β signaling and endothelial activation, increase monocyte tissue factor activity, and promote immunothrombosis with neutrophil extracellular trap (NET) formation. NET-rich thrombi may adopt a dense fibrin–DNA–histone architecture that resists endogenous fibrinolysis, favoring organization and persistence. CTEPH offers a translational window to interrogate this model because thrombotic material and deep phenotyping are accessible. We synthesize genotype- and VAF-resolved clinical and mechanistic evidence using a structured strength-of-evidence framework and propose a pragmatic phenotyping roadmap with testable predictions for prospective post-PE validation. CHIP testing in PE/CTEPH remains investigational and should not currently change standard care. Full article

Background/Objectives: This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the clinical effectiveness of regenerative surgical treatments compared with open flap debridement (OFD) in the management of peri-implantitis and, secondarily, assessed whether more advanced regenerative approaches, including guided bone regeneration (GBR), platelet-rich fibrin (PRF), and hyaluronic acid (HA), provide additional clinical benefit compared with bone grafting alone. Methods: A comprehensive search of PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines and the PICO model, covering the period from 1993 to 2024. From 2119 identified articles, 63 full-text papers were reviewed, and 12 studies met all inclusion criteria. These studies compared regenerative treatments with OFD and bone grafting using clinical outcomes of probing pocket depth (PPD), radiographic bone level (RBL), bleeding on probing (BOP), suppuration (SUP), mucosal recession (REC), and clinical attachment level (CAL). Meta-analysis was performed using a random-effects model. Results: Regenerative treatments demonstrated superior outcomes in radiographic bone level gain compared with OFD (p < 0.001), while no statistically significant differences were observed for PPD (p = 0.77), BOP (p = 0.13), SUP (p = 0.42), REC (p = 0.14), or CAL (p = 0.96). Comparisons between bone grafting and other regenerative materials also showed no statistically significant differences. Conclusions: Regenerative procedures improved radiographic bone outcomes but did not consistently outperform OFD in soft tissue parameters, and no advanced regenerative modality demonstrated clear clinical superiority over bone grafting alone. Further high-quality randomized controlled trials with standardized methodologies are needed to establish clinical guidelines for peri-implantitis surgery. Full article

This study performs a sensitivity analysis of CO₂ emissions from clinker and cement production using life cycle assessment (LCA). Both local and global sensitivity analyses (LSA and GSA) are conducted. LSA uses outputs from the GCCA EPD tool—developed by the Global Cement and Concrete Association to facilitate Environmental Product Declarations—and examines correlations between perturbed input variables and the resulting output changes. For GSA, we present an analytical derivation of Sobol’ indices. We derive quantitative relationships between alternative materials and fuels and key technical indices, while preserving clinker and cement quality throughout the sensitivity analysis. Increasing the share of the alternative fuels (AFs) categories and of recycled concrete produces a negative percentage change in CO₂ emitted from the clinker (CO₂/CL). The largest CO₂/CL reductions arise from high-biomass fuels, followed by alternative solid fuels and refuse-derived fuels, shredded tires, and, lastly, recycled concrete. The clinker-to-cement ratio (CL/CEM) dominates the CO₂ emitted in cement production (1% change → 0.926–0.956% change), while clinker-level CO₂ reductions transmit to cement with only minor variation, confirmed by Sobol’ indices. Aside from reducing CO₂/CL by increasing alternative materials and fuels, the two principal approaches to lowering CO₂/CEM are: (i) minimizing clinker content in cement where permitted by applicable standards while maintaining the same performance, and (ii) designing new cement types that deliver equivalent performance with lower clinker content. Full article

Background/Objectives: This technical report introduces an innovative hybrid digital workflow that integrates diagnostic plaster-cast scanning with intraoral scanning to produce an accurate 3D-printed model for fabricating distal-extension removable dental prostheses (RDPs). Methods: The technique aims to overcome the challenges of reproducing the mobile mucosa in free-end saddles, a critical factor for denture base accuracy and stability. The workflow began with conventional clinical procedures, including clinical examination, impression-making, and cast surveying. After performing the required mouth preparations according to the prosthetic design, the diagnostic cast was digitized and selectively modified to allow intraoral rescanning. The prepared teeth were then scanned intraorally and merged with the digitalized cast, producing a refined virtual model for CAD-based metal framework design. The framework was digitally designed, 3D-printed to verify adaptation, and cast in cobalt–chromium. Standard RDP fabrication steps were followed, including intraoral framework try-in, fabrication of acrylic bases, occlusal registration, tooth arrangement, and functional and esthetic try-in. The final prosthesis was installed and adjusted without the need for an additional impression. Results: This hybrid workflow enabled a highly accurate reproduction of the distal extension region, outperforming models derived solely from direct intraoral scanning. By digitally capturing the physiological morphology of the mobile mucosa, the method eliminates the need for the traditional altered-cast technique, reducing clinical time, technical sensitivity, and material costs. Conclusions: The proposed approach enhances denture base accuracy, improves adaptation, and promotes more uniform occlusal load distribution in free-end RDPs. This streamlined and reproducible digital protocol offers a clinically relevant advancement, with potential to improve prosthesis stability and long-term outcomes. Full article

Background/Objectives: Topical treatment efficacy is fundamentally dependent on effective delivery of the active pharmaceutical ingredient and its compatibility with the compromised skin barrier. Many commercially available industrial formulations contain poorly tolerated excipients or lack essential therapeutic combinations, frequently leading to complex polypharmacy and reduced patient adherence. In contrast, magistral galenic preparations offer a degree of therapeutic personalization unmatched by standardized products, positioning the compounding laboratory as a strategic resource in dermatological care. This analysis aims to identify and evaluate ten indispensable magistral formulations selected based on their high clinical frequency and the absence of equivalent, globally available commercial alternatives. Materials and Methods: Each formulation was according to four strategic pillars: (i) dosage customization, (ii) excipient modification (removing allergens like parabens or fragrances), (iii) synergistic ingredient association, and (iv) vehicle optimization. The dermatological conditions addressed include pediatric scabies, melasma, hidradenitis suppurativa, and autoimmune mucosal diseases. Key selections include Kligman’s formula for hyperpigmentation and personalized trichological preparations. Results: The identified “top 10” magistral formulation reveals significant gaps within the standardized pharmaceutical market. In pediatric scabies (specifically patients < 15 kg), benzyl benzoate and precipitated sulfur demonstrate superior efficacy over permethrin, addressing emerging resistance patterns. For acute inflammatory dermatoses, Hoffmann Paste and Lime Liniment provide effective protective barriers while neutralizing local acidity. Antiseptic and astringent solutions, including Burow’s and Silver Nitrate (AgNO₃) offer targeted mechanisms and biocidal activity, often absent in standardized topicals. Furthermore, specialized adhesive oral pastes for autoimmune conditions minimizing systemic absorption and associated risks. Conclusions: Magistral compounding represents a cornerstone of precision medicine in dermatology enabling tailored therapies that bridge critical gaps left by standardized formulations, particularly in complex cases and vulnerable populations. Full article

Additive manufacturing (AM) has rapidly evolved from a prototyping tool into an effective method for producing end-use components, thanks to its ability to produce complex, lightweight and customised parts. However, this technique requires a thorough understanding of the long-term behaviour and degradation mechanisms of components, especially when polymers are involved in the printing process. Unlike polymer components manufactured using traditional methods, polymers produced through AM exhibit unique microstructures, anisotropies, and interfacial characteristics due to the layer-by-layer fabrication process. These features can affect how these materials respond to thermal, mechanical and environmental stresses over time. Furthermore, technology-specific processing parameters directly govern porosity distribution, crystallinity evolution, interlayer bonding quality, and residual stress development, all of which are key factors for ensuring long-term performance. This review aims to support researchers in the development of durable additively manufactured polymer components by systematically analysing polymer degradation mechanisms, accelerated ageing and lifetime prediction methodologies. Following a PRISMA-based screening process, approximately 160 international standards relevant to polymer durability in additive manufacturing were selected from an initial corpus of about 620 documents for in-depth analysis. Processing–structure–property relationships specific to the AM processing of polymers, including the commonly used FFF (fused filament fabrication), SLA (stereolithography) and SLS (selective laser sintering), are examined in relation to crucial aspects for long-term structural integrity and degradation behaviour. Finally, limitations within the current normative framework are identified, emphasising the absence of process-aware durability assessment protocols and the need for dedicated standards tailored to additively manufactured polymer components. Full article