Search Results (116)

This study investigated the effects of resin cement shade and thermocycling on the color parameters and final appearance of SLA-printed photopolymer resins. Specimens with a thickness of 1 mm were fabricated and categorized into eight groups based on four different cement shades (universal-A2, clear, white, and opaque) and two applications (cementation and thermal aging). Differences in color parameters (ΔL*, Δa*, and Δb*) were measured after cement polymerization and thermocycling, and overall color differences (ΔE₀₀-1 and ΔE₀₀-2) were calculated. Two-way ANOVA revealed significant interactions between cement shade and thermocycling for ΔL*, Δa*, and Δb* (p < 0.05). After cementation, L* decreased for universal-A2, clear, and white cements, but increased for opaque cement. Furthermore, thermocycling altered L*, a*, and b* values differently among the experimental groups. Cement shade significantly influenced ΔE₀₀, with universal-A2 and clear cements showing higher values than white and opaque cements (p < 0.05). All ΔE₀₀ values exceeded the clinically acceptable limit (>1.8). The findings suggest that careful selection of the cement shade is therefore critical to achieving optimal esthetic outcomes with the tested 3D-printed resin. Formlabs SLA-printed permanent resin, although labeled as an A2 shade, behaves more like white or opaque shades, highlighting inconsistencies between labeled and actual color. Full article

This study investigates a Solar Air Heating Façade (SAHF), architecturally enhanced through the integration of granular translucent Silica-Aerogel into multi-wall polycarbonate (PC) panels and the implementation of coated timber lamellas. The novelty of this work lies in the combined evaluation of thermal resistance and solar transmission properties of façade-integrated components, aiming to improve both energy efficiency and architectural integration. Two experimental campaigns were conducted: (i) thermal transmittance tests to determine the U-value of PC panels with and without Silica-Aerogel infill, and (ii) solar transmission measurements under controlled artificial solar radiation to evaluate the optical performance of various lamella configurations and coatings. Results show that the incorporation of Silica-Aerogel reduced the U-value by 41.8%, achieving a minimum of 1.19 W/m² K with the 20 mm thick PC panel, while decreasing the solar transmission of 43–53% depending on the incidence angle. The integration of reflective aluminum-coated timber lamella demonstrated promising results, enabling effective management of solar radiation. These findings highlight the potential of façade systems that combine high-performance insulation with visually integrated shading elements. Full article

The vegetable sweetpotato (Ipomoea batatas L.) is a novel, specialized type, cultivated for its tender stems and leaves, which are rich in nutrients and bioactive compounds. To clarify its growth adaptation to weak light conditions often encountered during cultivation, this study examined the impact of 70% shading on 12 representative cultivars from 4 leaf color types. Agronomic traits, color, and nutritional and antioxidant properties were assessed in both young and mature leaves. Shading promoted leaf expansion, plant height, and vine length, but reduced stem thickness and dry-matter content. Leaf shape shifted from lobed to more cordate, with the foliage becoming darker green and lighter red due to elevated chlorophylls and reduced anthocyanins. Shading generally reduced soluble protein, sugar, cellulose, total phenols, flavonoids, and total antioxidant capacity. Antioxidant capacity correlated most strongly with soluble sugar and dry-matter content, followed by total phenols and flavonoids. Gene expression analysis of key light- and leaf color-related genes revealed up-regulation of chlorophyll genes and down-regulation of anthocyanin genes under shading, with light-responsive genes potentially affected by pigment feedback. These results elucidate the sweetpotato’s adaptive responses to deep shading and provide valuable guidance for optimized cultivation and breeding of vegetable sweetpotato in light-limited environments. Full article

Soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr.) is a vital crop for the global supply of protein and oil, with its growth and development being regulated by genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors, particularly light and hormone signaling. The Small Auxin-Up RNA (SAUR) gene family plays a crucial role in plant growth regulation; however, the molecular mechanisms by which GmSAUR46 integrates photosynthesis and hormonal networks in soybean remain unclear. In this study, we focused on GmSAUR46b (Glyma.19G182600.1) and employed CRISPR/Cas9-mediated knockout and 35S-driven overexpression lines, alongside wild-type soybean (cv. Williams 82), to investigate its function. RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq) was conducted on shoot apical meristems, stems, and leaves at three developmental stages (V1, V2, V3), followed by transcriptomic analyses, including differential gene expression (DEG) identification and functional enrichment (GO, KEGG, KOG). Anatomical studies using paraffin sectioning and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) assessed the leaf midrib thickness and stem trichome density under varying light conditions. The transcriptomic results revealed DEGs enriched in pathways related to cell wall metabolism, hormone response, and photosynthesis. Anatomical analyses demonstrated that GmSAUR46b specifically regulates the leaf midrib thickness and stem trichome density in a light-dependent manner: under shade, the overexpression lines exhibited increased midrib thickness and trichome density, whereas the knockout lines showed reduced trichome density. Additionally, novel transcripts associated with stress resistance, hormone metabolism, and photosynthesis were identified, expanding the known soybean gene repertoire. Collectively, GmSAUR46b functions as a central hub integrating light signals with hormone and cell wall pathways to modulate soybean growth, particularly leaf and stem traits. This study advances understanding of SAUR gene function in soybean and provides valuable insights for molecular breeding aimed at improving adaptability and yield under diverse environmental conditions. Full article

Bioactive resin cements are gaining popularity for their clinical benefits, but concerns remain regarding their color stability. This study evaluated the color change (ΔE₀₀) and whiteness change (ΔWI_D) in bioactive resin cements and how their potential discoloration affects the shade of bonded CAD/CAM glass–ceramics at different ceramic thicknesses. VITA Mark II blocks were prepared in three thicknesses (0.5, 0.8, and 1.0 mm) and divided by resin cement: Panavia SA Universal (Pn), Predicta Bioactive Cement (Pr), and ACTIVA BioACTIVE Cement (Ac) (n = 10). Additionally, 10 specimens (10 × 2 mm) of each cement alone were prepared. Color was measured before and after 24 days of coffee immersion. Cement type significantly affected ΔE₀₀ (p < 0.001). Pn had the highest color stability, followed by Pr and Ac, with significant differences between each. ΔWI_D also varied by cement (p = 0.004), with Pn and Pr differing significantly from Ac. Ceramic thickness alone had no significant effect on ΔE₀₀ or ΔWI_D, but its interaction with cement type was significant (p < 0.001). While ceramic thickness does not directly affect the final shade, its combination with resin cement does. Choosing the right resin cement is key for long-term esthetic outcomes. Full article

Surface solar irradiance (SSI) is a critical factor influencing the power generation capacity of photovoltaic (PV) power plants. Dynamic changes in cloud cover pose significant challenges to the accurate nowcasting of SSI, which in turn directly affects the reliability and stability of renewable energy systems. However, existing research often simplifies or overlooks changes in the optical and morphological characteristics of clouds, leading to considerable errors in SSI nowcasting. To address this limitation and improve the accuracy of ultra-short-term SSI forecasting, this study first forecasts changes in cloud optical thickness (COT) within the next 3 h based on a spatiotemporal long short-term memory model, since COT is the primary factor determining cloud shading effects, and then integrates the zenith and regional averages of COT, along with factors influencing direct solar radiation and scattered radiation, to achieve precise SSI nowcasting. To validate the proposed method, we apply it to the Albuquerque, New Mexico, United States (ABQ) site, where it yielded promising performance, with correlations between predicted and actual surface solar irradiance for the next 1 h, 2 h, and 3 h reaching 0.94, 0.92, and 0.92, respectively. The proposed method effectively captures the temporal trends and spatial patterns of cloud changes, avoiding simplifications of cloud movement trends or interference from non-cloud factors, thus providing a basis for power adjustments in solar power plants. Full article

Background/Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the influence of shade and thickness on the polymerization of SDR^® flow+, a low-viscosity bulk-fill composite, by assessing its degree of conversion (DC). Methods: An in vitro study was conducted using SDR^® flow+ composite resin. Specimens were prepared at two thicknesses (2 mm and 4 mm) and four shades (Universal, A1, A2, A3). Polymerization was performed using a high-intensity LED curing unit. The DC was assessed using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR). Results: Both shade and thickness significantly influenced DC. Thicker specimens (4 mm) exhibited reduced polymerization compared to thinner specimens (2 mm). Darker shades, particularly A3, demonstrated the lowest DC values due to their higher chroma, which limits light penetration. In contrast, the Universal shade achieved higher DC values, even at increased depths, likely due to its greater translucency. Conclusions: Shade and thickness play a critical role in the polymerization of bulk-fill composites. Ensuring adequate polymerization is essential for the longevity of pediatric restorations. Further in vivo research is needed to confirm these findings and assess their clinical implications. Full article

To determine optimal light conditions for Hopea hainanensis Merr. & Chun seedling growth, this study examined growth and physiological parameters under four shading treatments (0%, 30%, 60%, and 90% irradiance reduction) over 12 months. Shading significantly affected the growth adaptability of seedlings. As shading increased, height, leaf traits (area, length, width), and light saturation point all initially increased, peaked at 30% shading, and then decreased. Conversely, basal diameter, leaf thickness, the maximum net photosynthetic rate, net photosynthetic rate, photosynthetic quantum efficiency, transpiration rate, and stomatal conductance progressively declined as shading increased. Biomass accumulation (in stems and roots), dark respiration rate, and light compensation point exhibited a U-shaped response to shading, being minimized under low or moderate shading. All shading treatments significantly reduced biomass and photosynthetic performance compared to controls. Multivariate analysis identified 0%–30% shading as optimal for cultivation, with 30% shading enhancing photomorphogenic responses while maintaining photosynthetic efficiency. The study findings suggest a novel seedling cultivation protocol for nursery use, in which initial establishment occurs under 30% shading to maximize vertical elongation, followed by the progressive reduction in shading to stimulate radial growth and optimal biomass partitioning. This approach mimics natural canopy gap dynamics, effectively mimicking natural regeneration in tropical rainforest ecosystems. Full article

With the rapid advancement of urbanization in China, the demand for community-based elderly care facilities (CECFs) has been increasing. One pressing challenge is the question of how to provide CECFs that not only meet the health needs of the elderly but also make efficient use of limited urban land resources. This study addresses this issue by adopting an integrated multi-method research framework that combines multi-objective optimization (MOO) algorithms, Spearman rank correlation analysis, ensemble learning methods (Random Forest combined with SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP), where SHAP enhances the interpretability of ensemble models), and Self-Organizing Map (SOM) neural networks. This framework is employed to identify optimal building configurations and to examine how different architectural parameters influence key daylight performance indicators—Useful Daylight Illuminance (UDI) and Daylight Factor (DF). Results indicate that when UDI and DF meet the comfort thresholds for elderly users, the minimum building area can be controlled to as little as 351 m² and can achieve a balance between natural lighting and spatial efficiency. This ensures sufficient indoor daylight while mitigating excessive glare that could impair elderly vision. Significant correlations are observed between spatial form and daylight performance, with factors such as window-to-wall ratio (WWR) and wall thickness (WT) playing crucial roles. Specifically, wall thickness affects indoor daylight distribution by altering window depth and shading. Moreover, the ensemble learning models combined with SHAP analysis uncover nonlinear relationships between various architectural parameters and daylight performance. In addition, a decision support method based on SOM is proposed to replace the subjective decision-making process commonly found in traditional optimization frameworks. This method enables the visualization of a large Pareto solution set in a two-dimensional space, facilitating more informed and rational design decisions. Finally, the findings are translated into a set of practical design strategies for application in real-world projects. Full article

Lecture halls are characterized by large spatial dimensions, deep floor plans, and high occupant densities. Lectures are typically conducted using multimedia and blackboard-based teaching, placing higher demands on the indoor light and thermal environment compared to standard classrooms. This study aims to simulate the interrelationships between multiple building envelope parameters and building performance, in order to improve visual and thermal comfort while reducing energy consumption in cold-region lecture halls. Based on seven key envelope parameters—including openable window area ratio, west-facing window-to-wall ratio, exterior insulation thickness, shading element spacing, angle and width, and window glass type—a multi-objective optimization framework was established. The optimization process targeted three key performance indicators—useful daylight illuminance (UDI), energy use intensity (EUI), and thermal comfort percentage (TCP)—in the context of a stepped classroom. The results show that increasing the thickness of exterior insulation and reducing the width of shading components contribute positively to photothermal comfort without compromising thermal and visual performance. Compared with the baseline design, optimized schemes that incorporate appropriate west-facing window-to-wall ratios, openable window areas, insulation thicknesses, and external shading designs can reduce annual energy consumption by up to 10.82%, and increase UDI and TCP by 12.79% and 36.41%, respectively. These improvements are also found to be economically viable. Full article

Background: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of in-office bleaching with 38% hydrogen peroxide (HP) on the surface roughness of a nanohybrid composite resin by comparing two measurement techniques: Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and profilometry. Methods: Sixty composite specimens of identical shade and thickness were prepared, light-cured, and polished following the manufacturer’s guidelines. These samples were divided into six groups based on the applied surface treatments: group 1: fresh composite (the control group), group 2: old composite, group 3: bleached fresh composite, group 4: bleached old composite, group 5: old repolished composite, and group 6: old repolished bleached composite. Surface roughness was measured using profilometry and SEM. Results: Pearson correlation analysis revealed a moderately significant linear relationship (r = 0.548, p < 0.001) between the surface roughness measurements obtained using SEM and the profilometer, indicating that both methods provide comparable results. A comparison of most groups showed significant differences (p < 0.001), highlighting the increased surface roughness observed after bleaching both fresh and aged composites. Conclusions: Bleaching increased the surface roughness of nanohybrid composites. It might be better to use SEM and a profilometer together to obtain a more comprehensive understanding of the surface characteristics. Full article

Zirconia ceramics are widely used in dentistry, but maintaining long-term color stability remains challenging. This study investigated the combined effects of specimen thickness, immersion duration, and aging of coloring solutions on the color stability of two multilayer commercial zirconia materials: TT ONE Multilayer (TT) and DD cubeX² ML (DD). Discs (1.0–2.5 mm thick) were immersed in A2-shade coloring liquids for 30 s, 1 min, 3 min, and 5 min and evaluated after three months of solution aging. Color parameters (L*, a*, b*, C*, ΔE) were assessed, along with pH variation and Fe/Er ion concentrations using ICP-MS. Thinner specimens showed higher ΔE values and greater chromatic shifts than thicker ones. Aging of the coloring solutions increased L* values and discoloration, particularly in TT. ICP-MS revealed rising Fe and declining Er levels, correlating with observed optical changes. DD showed greater chemical and optical stability under identical conditions. These findings highlight the need to control zirconia thickness and coloring solution aging to preserve long-term esthetics. Full article

Purpose: The aim of this study was to evaluate the color stability of 3D printed resin disks using spectral reflectance data obtained at different time periods after immersion in various staining solutions. The color stability of 3D-printed temporary crowns is clinically important, as it directly affects the esthetic outcome and patient satisfaction during the provisional phase of treatment. Materials and methods: Forty identical round disk specimens measuring 10 mm in diameter and 2 mm in thickness were fabricated using CAD/CAM 3D printing resin (shade B1). Half of the specimens (n = 20) were polished using an acrylic bur and medium pumice. The remaining specimens were unpolished (n = 20). Each group of disks was then immersed in one of the following immersion solutions: artificial saliva, black tea, carrot juice, and red wine. Color difference ΔE was evaluated using the spectrophotometer, a spectral reflectance instrument, at baseline, day 1, week 1, week 2 and week 3, against a white background. Comparisons between polished and unpolished disks at each time point were conducted using Mann–Whitney tests. Differences among the staining solutions at each time point for both polished and unpolished disks were analyzed using a one-way ANOVA with Tukey’s post hoc test. Results: Color difference ΔE was measured using the CIELAB formula. The mean ΔE values of each group were calculated. The greatest difference in color was observed in the unpolished and polished disks immersed in red wine. Polished disks showed less color difference when compared to unpolished disks. Significant differences in ΔE were detected between polished and unpolished disks immersed in red wine at week 1 (p = 0.0159), week 2 (p = 0.0079) and week 3 (p = 0.0079) and in carrot juice at week 3 (p = 0.0317). Conclusions: Immersion of 3D printed disks in different staining solutions caused detectable color difference in the tested materials, which was relative to the immersion duration and the staining solution used. The color of the 3D printed resins is influenced by the surface finishing, which may result in visually perceptible color differences. The color stability of 3D printied materials should be improved to provide long-term esthetics. Full article

The main focus of industrial sunflower processing is oil production, in which the pericarp is most often treated as a byproduct or biological waste. However, sunflower pericarps have shown significant potential for alternative applications. Bridging the gaps in knowledge of the properties of achenes and their byproducts would improve the efficiency of industrial processes and open new possibilities for utilizing the pericarp as a biological resource. In this work, we analyzed biophysical and morphometric properties of the achenes of eight sunflower genotypes. Their byproducts indicate a complex interrelationship among the analyzed traits. The basic achene color of the tested genotypes was gray, with dark to light shades. Larger achenes had larger seeds and a higher weight, while more spherical achenes had a higher proportion of pericarp. Additionally, achenes with a smaller cavity between the seed and the pericarp had a higher germination percentage. Genotypes with a thinner and softer pericarp had higher oil content, while greater thickness contributed to its reduction. Pericarp hardness was proportional to the number of sclerenchyma layers, not to the percentage of sclerenchyma. These findings suggest that pericarp structure can be a key determinant for both oil yield and byproduct valorization, enabling the selection of genotypes for specific industrial applications. Full article

(1) Background: Natural-looking dental restorations require careful selection of the restorative material, with color and translucency characteristics similar to the natural dental structures. (2) Objectives: This research aimed to evaluate if there is compatibility regarding the color and translucency between different commercial RBCs in different layering recipes. (3) Methods: Sixty 1 mm thick disk specimens were produced from three different RBCs: ESS (Essentia-GC), BEG (Brilliant Ever Glow-Coltene), and IPS (IPS Empress Direct-Ivoclar Vivadent). Three different opacities and translucencies (enamel, dentin, and opaque shades) from each system were used in four recipes (R1-enamel, R2-dentin, R3-enamel and dentin, R4-enamel, dentin, and opaque) to obtain single-, double-, and triple-layered samples, respecting the anatomical layering technique. CIE L*, a*, b*, C*, h⁰ coordinates were recorded, and the relative translucency parameter (RTP₀₀) was calculated. Further, the color differences (ΔE₀₀) and the difference in translucencies ΔRTP₀₀ were analyzed between the materials and between the layered recipes. (4) Results: The CIE L* and h° color coordinates and RTP₀₀ showed significant differences among all three RBCs for all four recipes (p < 0.001). The decreasing order of translucency for each recipe was R1: ESS > BEG > IPS, R2 and R3: BEG > IPS > ESS, R4: BEG > ESS > IPS. Important differences were found in color and translucency among the recipes for each of the three RBCs tested (p < 0.001). The decreasing order of translucency for the tested RBCs was ESS: R1 > R3 > R4 > R2, BEG and IPS: R1 > R3 > R2 > R4. (5) Conclusions: No significant compatibility was observed in color and translucency among different layering recipes of the same composite materials nor between similar layering recipes when using different composites. The color differences between materials were more significant than the differences in translucency for each recipe. Full article