Search Results (109)

This paper presents a methodology enabling the use of a Pitot probe for static pressure measurement in supersonic flow under severely confined spatial conditions where standard design guidelines cannot be satisfied. In particular, the recommended placement of a static pressure tapping at a distance of 10–20 tube diameters is not feasible; the proposed approach allows for the tapping to be located immediately downstream of the static tube cone. The methodology combines theoretical analysis, experimental measurements, and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations. Experiments were performed using appropriately selected pressure sensors, while detailed simulations in Ansys Fluent (Ansys 2024 R2) included both a high-fidelity probe model and free-stream flow analysis. By comparing experimental and numerical results, a correction coefficient was established based on the free-stream dynamic pressure obtained from CFD. This enables the accurate estimation of static pressure even in non-ideal probe configurations. The measurement error did not exceed 20%, while in most cases, very good agreement between experimental and CFD results was achieved. The main contribution of this paper is the validated methodology, which extends the applicability of Pitot probes to geometrically constrained environments where conventional static pressure measurement techniques cannot be implemented. Full article

Chrome tanning of fish skins generates hazardous effluents and carcinogenic Cr(VI) residues; chromium-free routes to valorize collagen-rich by-products from aquaculture and coastal fisheries are therefore needed. We report a 12-stage ecological protocol employing acetic acid/NaCl pickling, Acacia mearnsii tannin, A. podalyriifolia retanning, mashed-papaya enzymatic bating, and cinnamon as antimicrobial/odor adjunct, scaled from bench to pilot using exclusively locally sourced inputs, for Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) and Patagonian flounder (Paralichthys patagonicus). Three trained operators evaluated macroscopic quality against five predefined criteria adapted from SATRA and ISO 3376 grading conventions, providing a structured feasibility baseline that does not substitute for the standardized instrumental testing designated as priority future work. Both species achieved satisfactory grain stability, complete tannin penetration, pliable handle, and cinnamon-dominant odor without residual amines; dark-brown coloration is a recognized practical limitation for fashion applications. In silico molecular docking (GNINA v1.0) was used to explore the mechanistic plausibility of each ecological substitution, generating testable hypotheses rather than definitive mechanistic conclusions: the multidentate polyphenol proxy (PGG) exhibited consistently superior collagen engagement over the flavanol monomer across both collagen constructs and all three scoring metrics (1CAG: Vina affinity −5.51 ± 0.13 vs. −3.54 ± 0.35 kcal/mol; CNNscore 0.874 ± 0.009 vs. 0.771 ± 0.010; 7CWK: Vina affinity −6.98 ± 1.43 vs. −4.37 ± 0.16 kcal/mol; CNNscore 0.858 ± 0.024 vs. 0.635 ± 0.094). Dipeptide probes were reproducibly accommodated in the papain catalytic cleft, with the closest configuration reaching 3.997 Å from the catalytic nucleophile (OCS25-SG). Trans-cinnamaldehyde occupied the quorum-sensing pocket with reproducible placement (CNNscore 0.718 ± 0.034) but without score-based selectivity over structural decoys, a result interpreted as hypothesis-generating for future microbiological validation. The protocol is reproducible from bench to pilot and generalizable across two species with distinct dermal architectures. Quantitative physical-mechanical testing (shrinkage temperature, tensile strength, elongation, tear load), CIELab colorimetric analysis, and effluent characterization (COD, BOD₅, total phenolics) are designated as priorities for future validation. Full article

Conventional cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is guided primarily by process metrics that do not directly quantify cerebral hemodynamics or perfusion. Near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) provides continuous, non-invasive monitoring of regional tissue oxygenation and has emerged as a candidate modality for physiologic feedback during low-flow states. However, CPR applications vary across devices and signal processing. This scoping review maps how NIRS has been implemented during conventional CPR in humans and porcine models, with emphasis on instrumentation characteristics, signal processing, acquisition bandwidth, artifact handling, physiologic associations, and feasibility constraints. From 1048 records, 39 studies met the inclusion criteria. Most used forehead-based cerebral rSO₂ monitoring (30/39). Rising cerebral oxygenation trajectories were consistently associated with return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC). In contrast, persistently low or non-increasing patterns were associated with non-ROSC, and absolute thresholds varied substantially across devices and studies. A minority of investigations derived compression-rate or waveform features from hemoglobin signals. Feasibility findings emphasized rapid probe placement without interrupting compressions but highlighted motion artifact, workflow constraints, and incomplete acquisition reporting. Overall, during conventional CPR, NIRS primarily serves as a dynamic monitor of oxygenation trends rather than a validated prognostic tool. Emerging waveform-based and hemodynamic analyses suggest the potential to evaluate CPR efficiency using perfusion-responsive optical features. Full article

Objectives: This scoping review synthesized the available evidence on bedside ultrasonography used to confirm short-term nasogastric tube (NGT) placement in adults. Methods: The review followed JBI Collaboration methodology. Searches were conducted in CINAHL, Embase, LILACS, PubMed, and Scopus, as well as in gray literature sources (Google Scholar and ProQuest Dissertation & Thesis Global). Primary studies and clinical guidelines addressing bedside ultrasonography for short-term NGT placement in adults (≥18 years) were eligible, with no limits on language or publication year. Data were extracted and narratively summarized with the I-AIM framework (Indication, Acquisition, Interpretation, and Decision-Making). Results: Twenty-nine studies met the inclusion criteria. Most were single-center observational studies performed in intensive care units or emergency departments. Ultrasound was primarily used for confirmation prior to enteral nutrition initiation, while gastric decompression was less frequently reported. Acquisition protocols varied, although supine positioning, convex abdominal probes, and linear cervical probes were most commonly described. The gastric antrum and esophagus were the principal anatomical landmarks, with interpretation based on direct tube visualization and dynamic fogging; color Doppler was occasionally used. Radiography remained the reference standard in most studies, and only a minority initiated feeding based solely on ultrasound findings. Reported facilitators included bedside feasibility, absence of radiation exposure, and timeliness. Barriers included operator dependency, limited visualization in patients with obesity or gas interposition, protocol heterogeneity, and the limited methodological robustness of available studies. Conclusions: Current evidence suggests that ultrasonography may represent a feasible, radiation-free bedside approach for confirmation of NGT placement. Evidence from selected studies suggests that, with structured training, healthcare professionals may achieve diagnostic accuracy in specific clinical settings, although further robust multicenter investigations are needed to confirm these findings. Full article

Malignant biliary obstruction is commonly treated with biliary stenting either endoscopically or percutaneously; however, tumor ingrowth might occlude the stent, often leading to recurrent jaundice and repeat interventions. Endobiliary microwave ablation (MWA) is an emerging adjunct intended to devitalize intraductal tumors and potentially prolong stent patency. This review assesses the state of the art of endobiliary ablation for malignant biliary obstruction, focusing on the technique and safety of percutaneous procedures, as well as patient outcomes. It also discusses the use of flexible endobiliary MWA for hilar cholangiocarcinoma. The review covers ablation methods such as radiofrequency and MWA, which can be performed endoscopically or percutaneously. Research indicates that endobiliary thermal ablation is technically feasible and can be safely combined with stenting. Some studies suggest it may prolong stent patency and decrease the necessity for repeat procedures compared with stenting alone. Percutaneous techniques may be particularly helpful in complex hilar cases, allowing accurate energy delivery, protection of secondary bile ducts, and tailored stent placement. New microwave systems can heat tissue more deeply and evenly than radiofrequency ablation, which may improve local tumor control. Endobiliary thermal ablation appears to be a useful supplement to stenting, especially for patients with unresectable hilar cholangiocarcinoma. Flexible percutaneous MWA probes could make this treatment more widely available. Still, more high-quality studies are needed to find optimal ablation settings, identify which patients benefit most, and compare this method with standard stenting. Full article

Percutaneous computed tomography (CT) -guided cryoablation is an effective curative treatment for renal cell carcinoma. Improvements in treatment efficacy reflect not only the learning curve but also the integration of multiple adjunctive techniques that can be implemented at different stages of the procedure. Tumour targeting can be enhanced by intravenous contrast administration, or by intra-arterial delivery of contrast medium or iodized oil. Fusion imaging is another option to improve tumour delineation by registering intraprocedural CT with prior cross-sectional imaging. Probe placement for difficult-to-access lesions may be facilitated by alternative access routes, while electromagnetic navigation and robotic systems are being developed as alternatives to manual advancement. To mitigate the cold-sink effect and reduce bleeding risk, transarterial techniques such as embolization or temporary arterial occlusion can be added. Finally, thermoprotective manoeuvres are increasingly used to displace adjacent organs, thereby improving the feasibility, safety, and efficacy of renal cryoablation. Full article

Background/Objective: Root resective procedures are well established tooth-preserving techniques used when pathology is confined to one root of a multirooted tooth or in the furcation area. Although in recent years implant therapy has become a standard approach in many cases, the rising incidence of peri-implantitis has renewed interest in classical conservative treatment alternatives, such as hemisection, root resection and bicuspidization. The aim of this study is to present clinical cases in which hemisection and bicuspidization were performed to maintain compromised molars in function and achieve long-term outcomes. Methods: This retrospective case series study was conducted in a private dental practice and included three patients treated between 2009 and 2017. The presented cases involved molar teeth exhibiting a vertical fracture or extensive subgingival carries in one root while the remaining root(s) demonstrated favourable periodontal, endodontic and restorative prognosis. An interdisciplinary approach was followed in each case, involving comprehensive clinical and radiographic evaluation including cone beam computed tomography when indicated. The clinical treatment included an endodontic approach (primary treatment or retreatment if required) followed by hemisection or bicuspidization and placement of a permanent prosthetic rehabilitation with full-coverage restoration designed to optimize proper load distribution. Clinical and radiographic follow-up examination was done up to six years in case one, after six months in case two and up to six years in case three. Results: The teeth remained in function through their respective follow-up periods. Clinical and radiographic assessments, according to predefined success criteria, demonstrated periodontal stability (probing depth ≤ 4 mm), no evidence of secondary caries or root fracture, absence of clinical symptoms, normal tooth mobility and masticatory function, absence or reduction in periradicular radiolucency, and stable bone levels. Conclusions: Resective techniques require an interdisciplinary approach, namely, careful case selection, lege artis endodontic treatment, precise surgical technique, and appropriate prosthetic rehabilitation, in order to provide predictable and long-term outcomes. Within the limitations of this case series, resective techniques appeared to be a reliable and predictable alternative to extraction and implant placement in carefully selected clinical cases. Full article

Time-resolved spectroscopy (TRS) is a promising tool for noninvasive cerebral monitoring in neonates. However, the optimal forehead site for probe placement remains unclear. In this study, we evaluated the effect of probe positioning on TRS-derived optical parameters in neonates. TRS measurements were obtained from the midline and right lateral forehead of 30 neonates (≥36 weeks’ corrected gestational age). We compared various parameters between the two probe positions, including optical intensity, attenuation, mean optical path length, scattering coefficient, total hemoglobin (tHb), cerebral oxygen saturation (ScO₂) and cerebral blood volume (CBV). No significant differences were observed in tHb, ScO₂ and CBV between the midline and lateral sites. However, the lateral site showed a significantly lower scattering coefficient and shorter mean path length. Light intensity was increased and attenuation was reduced at the lateral site. Thus, while tHb, ScO₂ and CBV values were consistent between sites, the midline provided more stable scattering and optical path data. These findings suggest that the midline forehead may be a more suitable site for TRS-based neonatal cerebral monitoring. Full article

During the long-term operation of composite insulators in transmission lines, they are easily affected by harsh environments, resulting in hidden defects such as surface contamination, shed damage, and adhesive failure. A defect detection method based on microwave for composite insulators was proposed, and a corresponding numerical simulation model was established. A large-aperture horn antenna model with a wide frequency band and high gain was built, the accuracy of which was verified. In the simulation, shed crack defects were selected as representative probes to model typical defects in the sheds, sheath, and core rod of composite insulators. This study investigated defects with varying severity levels and spatial distributions while also exploring optimal placement configurations for detection antennas. An experimental platform was built for testing, and it was found that the experimental results showed a similar changing trend to the simulation results, which further verified the accuracy of the simulation model and the feasibility of simulating defects. Full article

We characterized influenza A(H1N1)pdm09, A(H3N2), and B/Victoria viruses circulating in Japan during 2023–2024, focusing on lineage placement relative to WHO-recommended vaccine strains and on baloxavir resistance (PA/I38T substitutions). We enrolled 210 outpatients with influenza-like illness across eight clinics in six prefectures (October 2023–September 2024). Of these, 209 had an analyzable pre-treatment respiratory specimen for RT-PCR; hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA) genes were sequenced by next-generation sequencing (NGS). PA/I38T substitutions that confer baloxavir resistance were assessed by cycling-probe RT-PCR, Sanger sequencing, and NGS. HA phylogenies were constructed with global datasets and WHO vaccine reference strains. Of 209 pre-treatment specimens, 181 were influenza-positive (A(H1N1)pdm09 44.2%, A(H3N2) 37.6%, B/Victoria 18.2%); 51 follow-up specimens were collected ≈4–5 days after baloxavir or neuraminidase inhibitor therapy. HA phylogeny placed A(H1N1)pdm09 in clades 5a.2a/5a.2a.1 with predominance of subclade D.2. A(H3N2) clustered exclusively in clade 2a.3a.1 (J lineage, mostly J.1), indicating a mismatch with the season’s A/Darwin/9/2021 vaccine component and supporting the subsequent J-lineage update. All B/Victoria genomes fell within V1A.3a.2 on a C.5 backbone (C.5.1 and C.5.7). No PA/I38T variant was detected in any pre-treatment specimen. Post-baloxavir, PA/I38T emerged in one A(H3N2) case (confirmed by all three methods) and in one B/Victoria case detected by NGS only (minority variant in a low-load sample). NA genes showed no substitutions associated with reduced susceptibility to laninamivir (e.g., E119A, G147E). During 2023–2024, A(H1N1)pdm09 and B/Victoria remained genetically aligned with their vaccine components, whereas A(H3N2) shifted to the J lineage, consistent with the 2024–2025 vaccine update. Although pre-treatment PA/I38T was absent, low-frequency on-therapy selection was observed, including a rare PA/I38T in influenza B/Victoria detected by NGS, suggesting the value of deep sequencing when viral loads are low. These integrated genomic–clinical data support vaccine strain realignment for H3N2 and continued monitoring of baloxavir resistance in outpatient care. Full article

Background and Clinical Significance: Advanced periodontitis with severe vertical bone loss and grade III mobility is usually managed by extraction and implant placement. Digital workflows and modern regenerative techniques have opened the possibility of preserving teeth that would traditionally be considered for extraction. This report describes a digitally guided modified intentional replantation (MIR) protocol applied to a maxillary tooth with severe periodontal involvement and unfavourable prognosis. Case Presentation: A 68-year-old male, non-smoker, with a history of heart transplantation under stable medical control, presented with generalized Stage IV, Grade C periodontitis. Tooth 21 showed >75% vertical bone loss, probing depths ≥ 9 mm, bleeding on probing, and grade III mobility. After non-surgical therapy and periodontal stabilization, a CAD/CAM-assisted MIR procedure was planned. Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) and a 3D-printed tooth replica were used to design a surgical guide for a new recipient socket. The tooth was atraumatically extracted, stored in chilled sterile saline, and managed extraorally for approximately 10 min. Apicoectomy and retrograde sealing with Biodentine^® were performed, followed by immediate replantation into the digitally prepared socket, semi-rigid splinting, and guided tissue regeneration using autologous bone chips, xenograft (Bio-Oss^®), enamel matrix derivative (Emdogain^®), and a collagen membrane (Bio-Gide^®). A conventional orthograde root canal treatment was completed within the first month. At 12 months, tooth 21 exhibited grade 0 mobility, probing depths of 3–4 mm without bleeding on probing, and stable soft tissues. Standardized periapical radiographs and CBCT showed radiographic bone fill within the previous defect and a continuous periodontal ligament-like space, with no signs of ankylosis or root resorption. The tooth was fully functional and asymptomatic. Conclusions: In this medically complex patient, digitally guided MIR allowed preservation of a tooth with severe periodontal involvement and poor prognosis, achieving favourable short-term clinical and radiographic outcomes. While long-term data and larger series are needed, MIR may be considered a tooth-preserving option in carefully selected cases as an alternative to immediate extraction and implant placement. Full article

Background: Implant placement after single-tooth extraction in the esthetic zone may be a challenge for clinicians. Immediate placement with immediate restoration may represent a valuable alternative in order to obtain a positive esthetic outcome. In such situations, proper insertion torque represents a clinical need, and fully tapered implants have been shown to be beneficial, as they can provide high primary stability values. The aim of this case study was to assess the esthetic and radiological treatment outcomes following the placement of a fully tapered implant in immediate post-extraction sites with an immediate restoration of single-tooth gap replacement in the esthetic area. Methods: A total number of 24 consecutive patients requiring single-tooth implant-supported prosthetic rehabilitation in the esthetic area, presenting an intact site, were selected. All implants were immediately restored using an immediate screw-retained prosthetic rehabilitation. Probing Depth (PD) and Bleeding on Probing (BoP) were assessed for four aspects of the implants and measured at 3 and 12 months, together with Marginal Bone Level (MBL), which was measured at day 0 (baseline) and at 3 and 12 months, while Pink Esthetic Score (PES) was measured at 0 (baseline) and 12 months. Results: PD at 3 months was 3.04 mm ± 0.69 mm, while at 12 months it was 2.82 mm ± 0.51 mm. MBL was 2.44 ± 0.64 mm at baseline, 2.25 ± 0.61 mm at 3 months, and 2.16 ± 0.60 mm at 12 months. PES was 11.08 ± 0.86 at baseline and 11.48 ± 0.77 at 12 months. Conclusions: Within the limits of the present study, immediate implant placement with immediate restoration seems to be a reliable procedure for replacing single teeth with a proper case selection. Full article

Background/Objectives: A variety of techniques for pedicle screw placement exist. Efficiency claims have varied, but limited data are available to support or refute these claims. Our goal was to study our screw placement efficiency, reporting real-time screw placement using O-arm 3D navigation. Methods: We prospectively enrolled patients from July 2019 to February 2022 who were undergoing primary procedures involving thoracolumbar pedicle and pelvic screw placement with O-arm navigation. Screw time began at the first placement of the navigated probe/awl and ended once the navigated screwdriver was removed from the screw head. Confirmatory 3D scans were performed to assess all screw placements. Results: The real-time average to place pedicle screws was 2 min 9 s (SD ± 1 min 5 s); for pelvic screws, this was 3 min 36 s. Screw placement was slightly faster in pediatric patients (2 min 3 s) vs. adults (2 min 24 s), p < 0.001. Screw placement was faster in the thoracic spine (2 min 2 s) vs. the lumbosacral spine (2 min 22 s), p < 0.001. Screw placement was faster in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (2 min 0 s) vs. all other diagnoses (2 min 24 s), p < 0.001. Screw placement performed by a single attending surgeon (2 min 24 s) was no different from dual-surgeon placement(2 min 13 s), p = 0.35. Conclusions: Our screw placement time is shorter than previously published estimates, and has a very high accuracy rate. While there are variations in how time is reported compared to the previous literature, our study serves as a benchmark for real-time screw placement for future studies. The use of navigation technology for pedicle and pelvic screw placement can be efficient. Full article

Background and Objectives: Orthodontic auxiliaries create plaque-retentive niches that may amplify biofilm accumulation and inflame adjacent soft tissues. While cross-sectional comparisons suggest higher palatal burden beneath acrylic elements, less is known about real-world patterns accumulated across years of routine care. We retrospectively evaluated periodontal and palatal outcomes, and, in a microbiology sub-sample, site-specific colonization, across three device types: molar bands, Nance buttons, and removable acrylic plates. Methods: We reviewed 2022–2025 records from a university orthodontic service, including consecutive patients aged 18–30 years with documented pre-placement and 6-month follow-up indices. Groups were bands (n = 92), Nance (n = 78), acrylic (n = 76). Standardized charted measures were abstracted: Plaque Index (PI), Gingival Index (GI), bleeding on probing (BOP%), probing depth (PD), and palatal erythema grade (0–3). A laboratory sub-sample (n = 174 visits) had archived swabs cultured for total aerobic counts (log₁₀ CFU/cm²) at the device, adjacent enamel, and palatal mucosa; Streptococcus mutans burden was available from qPCR (log₁₀ copies/mL). Results: Baseline characteristics were similar, except for longer wear at follow-up in Nance (10.1 ± 4.0 months) vs. bands (8.7 ± 3.2) and acrylic (6.9 ± 3.0; p < 0.001). At 6 months, device type was associated with greater worsening of PI and GI (both p < 0.001) and with higher palatal erythema (bands 0.7 ± 0.5; Nance 1.6 ± 0.8; acrylic 1.9 ± 0.7; p < 0.001). Microbiologically, palatal mucosal colonization was lowest with bands (3.3 ± 0.5), higher with Nance (4.9 ± 0.6), and highest with acrylic (5.0 ± 0.7; p < 0.001); S. mutans mirrored this gradient (p < 0.001). Palatal CFU correlated with erythema (ρ = 0.6, p < 0.001) and ΔGI (ρ = 0.5, p < 0.001). In adjusted models, acrylic (OR 6.7, 95% CI 3.5–12.8) and Nance (OR 4.9, 2.5–9.3) independently predicted erythema ≥2; recent prophylaxis reduced odds (OR 0.6, 0.3–0.9). Conclusions: In this single-center cohort, palate-contacting designs were associated with higher palatal biomass and erythema than bands. These associations support device-tailored hygiene considerations and proactive palatal surveillance, particularly for acrylic components. Full article

Background and Objectives: Adequate buccal bone thickness is critical for long-term peri-implant health and stability. When residual alveolar bone volume is insufficient, guided bone regeneration (GBR) is a widely adopted technique. While non-resorbable membranes provide structural support, they carry a higher risk of complications and require secondary surgery. Resorbable collagen membranes, offer promising biological properties and easier clinical handling, yet clinical data remain limited. This prospective cohort study aimed to evaluate the clinical and radiographic outcomes of horizontal GBR using a native, non–cross-linked resorbable porcine pericardium membrane fixed with titanium pins, in conjunction with simultaneous implant placement. Materials and Methods: Eighteen patients (26 implants) with horizontal alveolar defects (<6 mm) underwent implant placement and GBR with deproteinized bovine bone mineral and a porcine pericardium collagen membrane. Horizontal bone gain and buccal bone thickness were measured at baseline and 6 months post-operatively. Post-operative complications, patient-reported outcomes (PROMs), and peri-implant tissue health were assessed up to 1 year post-loading. Results: Mean bone gain was 2.95 ± 0.95 mm, and all sites achieved a buccal bone thickness ≥ 1.5 mm. No membrane-related complications occurred. PROMs revealed low morbidity. At 1-year follow-up, marginal bone loss averaged 0.54 ± 0.7 mm, mean probing depth was 2.79 ± 0.78 mm, 92% of sites exhibited keratinized mucosa ≥ 2 mm. Conclusions: Native resorbable porcine pericardium membranes, when combined with DBBM and mechanical stabilization, seem to be effective for horizontal bone regeneration. Full article