Cross-kingdom expression of synthetic genetic elements promotes discovery of metabolites in the human microbiome.

Small molecules encoded by biosynthetic pathways mediate cross-species interactions and harbor untapped potential, which has provided valuable compounds for medicine and biotechnology. Since studying biosynthetic gene clusters in their native context is often difficult, alternative efforts rely on heterologous expression, which is limited by host-specific metabolic capacity and regulation. Here, we describe a computational-experimental technology to redesign genes and their regulatory regions with hybrid elements for cross-species expression in Gram-negative and -positive bacteria and eukaryotes, decoupling biosynthetic capacity from host-range constraints to activate silenced pathways. These synthetic genetic elements enabled the discovery of a class of microbiome-derived nucleotide metabolites-tyrocitabines-from Lactobacillus iners. Tyrocitabines feature a remarkable orthoester-phosphate, inhibit translational activity, and invoke unexpected biosynthetic machinery, including a class of "Amadori synthases" and "abortive" tRNA synthetases. Our approach establishes a general strategy for the redesign, expression, mobilization, and characterization of genetic elements in diverse organisms and communities.

Computer-directed rational design enhanced the thermostability of carbonyl reductase LsCR for the synthesis of ticagrelor precursor.

Carbonyl reductases are useful for producing optically active alcohols from their corresponding prochiral ketones. Herein, we applied a computer-assisted strategy to increase the thermostability of a previously constructed carbonyl reductase, LsCRM4 (N101D/A117G/F147L/E145A), which showed an outstanding activity in the synthesis of the ticagrelor precursor (1S)-2-chloro-1-(3,4-difluorophenyl)ethanol. The stability changes introduced by mutations at the flexible sites were predicted using the computational tools FoldX, I-Mutant 3.0, and DeepDDG, which demonstrated that 12 virtually screened mutants could be thermally stable; 11 of these mutants exhibited increased thermostability. Then a superior mutant LsCRM4-V99L/D150F was screened out from the library that was constructed by iteratively combining the beneficial sites, which showed a 78% increase in activity and a 17.4°C increase in melting temperature compared to LsCRM4. Our computer-assisted design and combinatorial strategy dramatically increased the efficiency of thermostable enzyme production.

An efficient modeling workflow for high-performance nanowire single-photon avalanche detector.

Single-photon detector (SPD), an essential building block of the quantum communication system, plays a fundamental role in developing next-generation quantum technologies. In this work, we propose an efficient modeling workflow of nanowire SPDs utilizing avalanche breakdown at reverse-biased conditions. The proposed workflow is explored to maximize computational efficiency and balance time-consuming drift-diffusion simulation with fast script-based post-processing. Without excessive computational effort, we could predict a suite of key device performance metrics, including breakdown voltage, dark/light avalanche built-up time, photon detection efficiency, dark count rate, and the deterministic part of timing jitter due to device structures. Implementing the proposed workflow onto a single InP nanowire and comparing it to the extensively studied planar devices and superconducting nanowire SPDs, we showed the great potential of nanowire avalanche SPD to outperform their planar counterparts and obtain as superior performance as superconducting nanowires, i.e. achieve a high photon detection efficiency of 70% with a dark count rate less than 20 Hz at non-cryogenic temperature. The proposed workflow is not limited to single-nanowire or nanowire-based device modeling and can be readily extended to more complicated two-/three dimensional structures.

Prediction of electrical properties of GAAFET based on integrated learning model.

As device feature sizes continue to decrease and fin field effect transistors reach their physical limits, gate all around field effect transistors (GAAFETs) have emerged with larger gate control areas and stackable characteristics for better suppression of second-order effects such as short-channel effects due to their gate encircling characteristics. Traditional methods for studying the electrical characteristics of devices are mostly based on the technology computer-aided design. Still, it is not conducive to developing new devices due to its time-consuming and inefficient drawbacks. Deep learning (DL) and machine learning (ML) have been well-used in recent years in many fields. In this paper, we propose an integrated learning model that integrates the advantages of DL and ML to solve many problems in traditional methods. This integrated learning model predicts the direct current characteristics, capacitance characteristics, and electrical parameters of GAAFET better than those predicted by DL or ML methods alone, with a linear regression factor (R2) greater than 0.99 and very small root mean square error. The proposed integrated learning model achieves fast and accurate prediction of GAAFET electrical characteristics, which provides a new idea for device and circuit simulation and characteristics prediction in microelectronics.

A forecasting model for suitable dental implantation in canine mandibular premolar region based on finite element analysis.

In recent years, dental implants have become a trend in the treatment of human patients with missing teeth, which may also be an acceptable method for companion animal dentistry. However, there is a gap challenge in determining appropriate implant sizes for different dog breeds and human. In this study, we utilized skull computed tomography data to create three-dimensional models of the mandibles of dogs in different sizes. Subsequently, implants of various sizes were designed and subjected to biomechanical finite element analysis to determine the optimal implant size. Regression models were developed, exploring the relationship between the average weight of dogs and the size of premolar implants. Our results illustrated that the regression equations for mean body weight (x, kg) and second premolar (PM2), third premolar (PM3), and fourth premolar (PM4) implant length (y, mm) in dogs were: y = 0.2785x + 7.8209, y = 0.2544x + 8.9285, and y = 0.2668x + 10.652, respectively; the premolar implant diameter (mm) y = 0.0454x + 3.3506, which may provide a reference for determine suitable clinical implant sizes for dogs.

Comparative in vitro evaluation of microgap in titanium stock versus cobalt-chrome custom abutments on a conical connection implant: Effect of crown cementation and ceramic veneering.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the implant-abutment connection microgap between computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) milled or laser-sintered cobalt-chrome custom abutments with or without ceramic veneering and titanium stock abutments with or without crown cementation. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Six groups of six abutments each were prepared: (1) CAD/CAM cobalt-chrome custom abutments: milled, milled with ceramic veneering, laser-sintered, and laser-sintered with ceramic veneering (four groups: MIL, MIL-C, SIN, and SIN-C, respectively) and (2) titanium stock abutments with or without zirconia crown cementation (two groups: STK and STK-Z, respectively). Abutments were screwed to the implants by applying 30 Ncm torque. All 36 samples were sectioned along their long axes. The implant-abutment connection microgap was measured using scanning electron microscopy on the right and left sides of the connection at the upper, middle, and lower levels. Data were analyzed using the Kruskal-Wallis test (p < .05). RESULTS: Mean values (µm) of the microgap were 0.54 ± 0.44 (STK), 0.55 ± 0.48 (STK-Z), 1.53 ± 1.30 (MIL), 2.30 ± 2.2 (MIL-C), 1.53 ± 1.37 (SIN), and 1.87 ± 1.8 (SIN-C). Although significant differences were observed between the STK and STK-Z groups and the other groups (p < .05), none were observed between the milled and laser-sintered groups before or after ceramic veneering. The largest microgap was observed at the upper level in all groups. CONCLUSIONS: Titanium stock abutments provided a closer fit than cobalt-chrome custom abutments. Neither crown cementation nor ceramic veneering resulted in significant changes in the implant-abutment connection microgap.

Computer-aided designed 3D-printed polymeric scaffolds for personalized reconstruction of maxillary and mandibular defects: a proof-of-concept study.

PURPOSE: To investigate the potential reconstruction of complex maxillofacial defects using computer-aided design 3D-printed polymeric scaffolds by defining the production process, simulating the surgical procedure, and explore the feasibility and reproducibility of the whole algorithm. METHODS: This a preclinical study to investigate feasibility, reproducibility and efficacy of the reconstruction algorithm proposed. It encompassed 3 phases: (1) scaffold production (CAD and 3D-printing in polylactic acid); (2) surgical simulation on cadaver heads (navigation-guided osteotomies and scaffold fixation); (3) assessment of reconstruction (bone and occlusal morphological conformance, symmetry, and mechanical stress tests). RESULTS: Six cadaver heads were dissected. Six types of defects (3 mandibular and 3 maxillary) with different degree of complexity were tested. In all case the reconstruction algorithm could be successfully completed. Bone morphological conformance was optimal while the occlusal one was slightly higher. Mechanical stress tests were good (mean value, 318.6 and 286.4 N for maxillary and mandibular defects, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: Our reconstructive algorithm was feasible and reproducible in a preclinical setting. Functional and aesthetic outcomes were satisfactory independently of the complexity of the defect.

Direct versus fully digital indirect bracket bonding: a split-mouth randomized clinical trial on accuracy.

OBJECTIVES: The primary aim is to assess differences in accuracy of orthodontic bracket positioning between fully digital indirect bracket bonding (IDB) and conventional direct bracket bonding (DBB). The secondary aims are to assess differences in bracket bonding failures, bracket repositioning need, clinician experience and patient satisfaction. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This prospective study was designed as a split-mouth randomized clinical trial. In total, 35 patients were analyzed with a six month follow-up period. Translational and orientational deviations from the planned bracket position were determined. Clinician experience and patient satisfaction were evaluated by means of a survey. RESULTS: The difference in translation was 0.34 mm (95% CI: 0.238-0.352, p = 0.017), the difference in orientation was 4.80˚ (95% CI: 3.858-5.727, p < 0.001), both in favour of IDB. IDB showed significantly more immediate (IDB: 3.9%, DBB: 0%) and late (IDB: 5.4%, DBB: 2.5%, p = 0.008) bonding failures. Clinicians and patients experienced a shorter clinical chair time with indirect bonding over direct bonding. CONCLUSIONS: IDB bracket positioning leads to significant smaller translation and orientation deviations from digital IDB planning, than DBB bracket positioning. However, IDB leads to more immediate bonding failures than DBB. The majority of patients preferred IDB over DBB, due to a shorter clinical chair time. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: This study adds to the knowledge of IDB in orthodontics and contributes to evidence on this technique. This evidence is applicable in everyday orthodontics, with respect to patient satisfaction and technical limits of IDB. The trial was registered in the Dutch Trial Register and the International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ICTRP) of the World Health Organization (WHO), number NL9411.

Mechanical and biological properties of polymer materials for oral appliances produced with additive 3D printing and subtractive CAD-CAM techniques compared to conventional methods: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this review was to analyze mechanical and biological properties of resin materials used with subtractive or additive techniques for oral appliances fabrication and compare them to those conventionally manufactured. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The protocol was registered online at Open Science Framework (OSF) registries ( https://osf.io/h5es3 ) and the study was based on the preferred reporting items for systematic review and meta-analysis protocols (PRISMA-P). An electronic search was conducted on MEDLINE (via PubMed), Scopus, and Web of Science from 1 February 2022 to 1 May 2022. INCLUSION CRITERIA: in vitro and in vivo studies published in the last 10 years, with CAD-CAM or 3D printed resins for occlusal splints. Data considered homogenous were subjected to meta-analysis (95% confidence interval [CI]; α = 0.05) with Stata17 statistical software. Since all variables were continuous, the Hedge g measure was calculated. A fixed-effects model was used for I2 = 0%, while statistical analysis was conducted using a random-effects model with I2 > 0%. RESULTS: 13 studies were included after full-text reading. The mechanical properties most studied were wear, flexural strength, surface hardness and surface roughness, while only 1 study investigated biological properties, performing the XTT viability assay. For the meta-analysis, only surface roughness, volume loss, and flexural strength were selected. Considering surface roughness, the subtractive specimen had a lower average value compared to traditional ones (Hedge's g with 95% CI = -1.25[ -1.84, - 0.66]). No significant difference was detected in terms of volume loss (P > 0.05) between the groups (Hedge's g with 95% CI = -0.01 [-2.71, - 2.68]). While flexural strength was higher in the control group (Hedge's g with 95% CI = 2.32 [0.10-4.53]). CONCLUSION: 3D printed materials showed properties comparable to conventional resins, while milled splint materials have not shown better mechanical performance compared with conventional heat-cured acrylic resin. Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) have great potential and needs to be further investigated. Biological tests on oral cell populations are needed to confirm the long-term biocompatibility of these materials. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The use of "mixed splints" combining different materials needs to be improved and evaluated in future research to take full advantage of different characteristics and properties.

Impact of Channel Thickness and Doping Concentration for Normally-Off Operation in Sn-Doped ß-Ga2O3 Phototransistors.

We demonstrate a Sn-doped monoclinic gallium oxide (ß-Ga2O3)-based deep ultraviolet (DUV) phototransistor with high area coverage and manufacturing efficiency. The threshold voltage (VT) switches between negative and positive depending on the ß-Ga2O3 channel thickness and doping concentration. Channel depletion and Ga diffusion during manufacturing significantly influence device characteristics, as validated through computer-aided design (TCAD) simulations, which agree with the experimental results. We achieved enhancement-mode (e-mode) operation in <10 nm-thick channels, enabling a zero VG to achieve a low dark current (1.84 pA) in a fully depleted equilibrium. Quantum confinement in thin ß-Ga2O3 layers enhances UV detection (down to 210 nm) by widening the band gap. Compared with bulk materials, dimensionally constrained optical absorption reduces electron-phonon interactions and phonon scattering, leading to faster optical responses. Decreasing ß-Ga2O3 channel thickness reduces VT and VG, enhancing power efficiency, dark current, and the photo-to-dark current ratio under dark and illuminated conditions. These results can guide the fabrication of tailored Ga2O3-based DUV phototransistors.

Quaternion-Based Attitude Estimation of an Aircraft Model Using Computer Vision.

Investigating aircraft flight dynamics often requires dynamic wind tunnel testing. This paper proposes a non-contact, off-board instrumentation method using vision-based techniques. The method utilises a sequential process of Harris corner detection, Kanade-Lucas-Tomasi tracking, and quaternions to identify the Euler angles from a pair of cameras, one with a side view and the other with a top view. The method validation involves simulating a 3D CAD model for rotational motion with a single degree-of-freedom. The numerical analysis quantifies the results, while the proposed approach is analysed analytically. This approach results in a 45.41% enhancement in accuracy over an earlier direction cosine matrix method. Specifically, the quaternion-based method achieves root mean square errors of 0.0101 rad/s, 0.0361 rad/s, and 0.0036 rad/s for the dynamic measurements of roll rate, pitch rate, and yaw rate, respectively. Notably, the method exhibits a 98.08% accuracy for the pitch rate. These results highlight the performance of quaternion-based attitude estimation in dynamic wind tunnel testing. Furthermore, an extended Kalman filter is applied to integrate the generated on-board instrumentation data (inertial measurement unit, potentiometer gimbal) and the results of the proposed vision-based method. The extended Kalman filter state estimation achieves root mean square errors of 0.0090 rad/s, 0.0262 rad/s, and 0.0034 rad/s for the dynamic measurements of roll rate, pitch rate, and yaw rate, respectively. This method exhibits an improved accuracy of 98.61% for the estimation of pitch rate, indicating its higher efficiency over the standalone implementation of the direction cosine method for dynamic wind tunnel testing.

Fracture strength of endocrowns after thermomechanical aging.

This in-vitro study aimed to evaluate the fracture strength (FS; N) of composite, feldspathic, and glass-ceramic computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) endocrowns after thermomechanical aging. Seventy non-carious human molars were randomly divided into seven groups, according to the CAD/CAM material used for endocrown fabrication. Intact molars without cavity preparations were used as control (n = 10). Following endodontic treatment, standardized endocrown cavities were prepared and endocrowns were fabricated using composite (Cerasmart270, CS and Grandio Blocs, GB), fired and milled zirconia-reinforced lithium silicate (Celtra Duo, CD), leucite-reinforced feldspar ceramic (LRF Initial, LRF), and feldspathic (Cerec Blocks, CE) materials which were luted with universal adhesive (Futurabond U; Voco) and dual-cure resin cement (Bifix QM). Following thermocycling for 20,000 cycles and 480,000 load cycles in a chewing simulator (CS-4.2, SD Mechatronik), FS was evaluated (Instron). Data were analyzed with one-way ANOVA and post hoc Tukey's tests (p < 0.05). FS was significantly influenced by the tested material (p = 0.00). CS had the highest FS, which was not significantly different from intact molars and fired CD (p > 0.05). There were no significant differences in FS between LRF, GB, and CD, which were significantly higher than CE. Most of the failure modes of CS, CD, and GB were repairable, whereas those of CE were irreparable. All the tested materials withstood clinically relevant axial forces. Composite endocrowns exhibited more favorable fracture pattern, whereas feldspathic and leucite-reinforced feldspar ceramic endocrowns exhibited mostly irreparable fractures.

Digital Surgical Guides in Mandibular Genioplasty: Evaluating Precision Against Conventional Techniques.

BACKGROUND: Mandibular genioplasty, a central procedure in oral and maxillofacial surgery, has traditionally relied on surgeon experience with potential limitations in precision. The advent of digital methods, particularly computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM), offers a promising alternative. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of digital surgical guides in improving the precision of mandibular genioplasty. METHODS: A prospective analysis of 50 patients undergoing genioplasty was performed, 30 in the experimental group using digital surgical guides and 20 in the control group using traditional methods. Three-dimensional reconstructions were obtained using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) and digital scans. Osteotomy guides were 3D-printed based on group assignment. Postoperatively, accuracy was assessed by measuring distances between landmarks. RESULTS: The experimental group showed significantly reduced horizontal positioning errors in genioplasty advancement, with no significant differences in vertical errors. For genioplasty retraction, the experimental group showed fewer vertical positioning errors, while horizontal errors remained consistent. CONCLUSIONS: The use of digital surgical guides in mandibular genioplasty significantly improves surgical accuracy, resulting in improved outcomes and patient satisfaction. This study highlights the potential of digital methods in refining oral and maxillofacial surgical procedures. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE III: This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266.

Minimally invasive CAD/CAM lithium disilicate partial-coverage restorations show superior in-vitro fatigue performance than single crowns.

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the influence of restoration design (partial-coverage restoration vs. crown) and ceramic layer thickness on the performance and failure loads of CAD/CAM-fabricated lithium disilicate (LDS) reconstructions on molars after fatigue. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Seventy-two posterior monolithic CAD/CAM-fabricated LDS restorations (IPS e.max CAD, Ivoclar Vivadent) with different occlusal/buccal ceramic layer thicknesses (1.5/0.8, 1.0/0.6, and 0.5/0.4 mm) and restoration designs (PCR: non-retentive full-veneer/partial-coverage restoration, C: crown,) were investigated and divided into six groups (n = 12, test: PCR-1.5, PCR-1.0, PCR-0.5; control: C-1.5, C-1.0, C-0.5). LDS restorations were adhesively bonded (Variolink Esthetic DC, Ivoclar Vivadent) to dentin-analogue composite dies (Z100, 3M ESPE). All specimens were subjected to thermomechanical loading (1.2 million cycles, 49 N, 1.6 Hz, 5-55°C) and exposed to single load to failure testing. Failure analysis was performed with light and scanning electron microscopies. Data were statistically analyzed using ANOVA, Tukey-Test, and t-test (p < 0.05). RESULTS: Eight crown samples (C-0.5) and one PCR specimen (PCR-0.5) revealed cracks after fatigue, resulting in an overall success rate of 87.5% (crowns: 75%, PCRs: 96.88%). Direct comparisons of PCRs versus crowns for thicknesses of 0.5 mm (p < 0.001) and 1.0 mm (p = 0.004) were significant and in favor of PCRs. Minimally invasive PCRs (0.5 and 1.0 mm) outperformed crowns with the identical ceramic thickness. No difference was detected (p = 0.276) between thickness 1.5 mm PCRs and crowns. CONCLUSIONS: Minimally invasive monolithic CAD/CAM-fabricated posterior LDS PCRs (0.5 and 1.0 mm) resulted in superior failure load values compared to minimally invasive crowns. Minimally invasive crowns (0.5 mm) are prone to cracks after fatigue. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Minimally invasive CAD/CAM-fabricated LDS PCR restorations with a non-retentive preparation design should be considered over single crowns for molar rehabilitation.

Removable complete denture with a metal base: Integration of digital design and conventional fabrication techniques.

OBJECTIVE: Digitally-designed removable complete dentures are typically composed of a resin denture base without a metal framework. However, metal denture bases are preferable as resin bases are more susceptible to fracture. Therefore, this article introduces a unique technique that integrates computer-aided design (CAD) and conventional resin processing for the fabrication of removable complete dentures with a metal framework. CLINICAL CONSIDERATIONS: A maxillary complete denture with a metal base and a mandibular implant-retained overdenture reinforced with a metal framework were fabricated. The dentures were designed using CAD software and a tooth library. The denture bases were milled from wax disks, and artificial teeth were placed to complete the wax dentures. The metal frameworks were also designed using CAD software and produced via casting of printed resin patterns. Finally, conventional denture processing techniques were applied to obtain dentures with metal frameworks. CONCLUSIONS: A digitally designed, removable complete denture with a metal base can be successfully fabricated using the described technique, which merges digital design and conventional methods. This article demonstrates the feasibility and potential advantages of this innovative approach in denture fabrication. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: The presented technique provides the following advantages: digital design features, precise space above implant overdenture attachments for a metal framework, convenience of esthetic evaluation with printed trial dentures, long-term data storage and duplication, reliable bond between the artificial teeth and denture base, and enhanced strength of the removable complete denture due to the metal reinforcement.

Accuracy assessment between computer-guided surgery planning and actual tooth position during tooth autotransplantation.

BACKGROUND/AIM: This study aims to evaluate the precision and efficacy of utilizing computer-aided design (CAD) in combination with three-dimensional printing technology for tooth transplantation. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This study analysed 50 transplanted teeth from 48 patients who underwent tooth transplantation surgery with the aid of CAD and positional guides. A consistent coordinate system was established using preoperative and postoperative cone-beam computed tomography images. Linear displacements and angular deviations were calculated by identifying key regions in both virtual designs and actual transplanted teeth. Additionally, an analysis was conducted to explore potential factors influencing these deviations. RESULTS: The mean cervical deviation, apical deviation, and angular deviation among the 50 transplanted teeth were 1.16 ± 0.57 mm, 1.80 ± 0.94 mm, and 6.82 ± 3.14°, respectively. Cervical deviation was significantly smaller than apical deviation. No significant difference in deviation was observed among different recipient socket locations, holding true for both single-root, and multi-root teeth. However, a significant difference was noted in apical deviation between single-root and multi-root teeth. Our analysis identified a correlation between apical deviation and root length, leading to the development of a prediction model: Apical deviation = 0.1390 × (root length) + 0.2791. CONCLUSIONS: The postoperative position of the donor teeth shows discrepancies compared to preoperative simulation when utilizing CAD and 3D printed templates during autotransplantation procedures. Continual refinement of preoperative design is a crucial endeavour.

Digital Simulation and Designing of a Novel Osteotomy Guide for Autotransplantation in the Anterior Region.

Autotransplantation of teeth (ATT) is a viable treatment option for replacing teeth lost due to various reasons. Periodontal ligament (PDL) on the donor tooth is one of the most crucial factors determining the success of ATT. To preserve the PDL during surgery and improve the success rate of ATT, digital dentistry has been applied to ATT. In this article, a digital workflow including surgical simulation, a three-dimensional (3D) replica fabrication, and a novel osteotomy guide design is introduced. Digital simulation of ATT on a patient's integrated model enables visualization of anatomical structures and the 3D position of the donor tooth prior to the actual surgery. The 3D-printed osteotomy guide allows the transfer of the direction and depth of the planned osteotomy into the intraoral environment. The 3D replica helps prepare the recipient site before the actual transplantation, which minimizes the extra-alveolar time of the donor tooth and decreases trauma during the try-in process. The proposed virtual planning and the use of the guide and the 3D replica can facilitate the surgical procedures while minimizing complications.

New scenarios for training in oral radiology: clinical performance and predoctoral students' perception of 3D-printed mannequins.

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to evaluate the impact of 3D-printed mannequins on the training of predoctoral students. METHODS: Two 3D-printed training models were developed: a traditional model that simulates a sound adult patient and a customized model with pathological and physiological changes (impacted third molar and edentulous region). Students accomplished their pre-clinical training divided into a control group (CG, n = 23), which had access to the traditional model, and a test group (TG, n = 20), which had access to both models. Afterward, they performed a full mouth series on patients and filled out a perception questionnaire. Radiographs were evaluated for technical parameters. Descriptive statistics and the Mann-Whitney test were used to compare the groups. RESULTS: Students provided positive feedback regarding the use of 3D printing. The TG reported a more realistic training experience than the CG (P = .037). Both groups demonstrated good clinical performance (CG = 7.41; TG = 7.52), and no significant differences were observed between them. CONCLUSIONS: 3D printing is an option for producing simulators for pre-clinical training in Oral Radiology, reducing student stress and increasing confidence during clinical care.

Design of customizable personal protective equipment for 3-D printing: Performance evaluation of N95 respirators using computational fluid dynamics.

3-D printing the structural components of facemasks and personal protective equipment (PPE) based on 3-D facial scans creates a high degree of customizability. As a result, the facemask fits more comfortably with its user's specific facial characteristics, filters contaminants more effectively with its increased sealing effect, and minimizes waste with its cleanable and reusable plastic structure compared to other baseline models. In this work, 3-D renditions of the user's face taken with smartphone laser scanning techniques were used to generate customized computer-aided design (CAD) models for the several components of an N95 respirator, which are each designed with considerations for assembly and 3-D printing constraints. Thorough analyses with computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations were carried out to verify the respirator's efficiency in filtering airborne contaminants to comply with industry safety guidelines and generate data to showcase the relationships between various input and output design parameters. This involved a comparative study to identify the ideal cross-sectional geometry of exposed filter fabric, a sensitivity study to evaluate the respirator's ability to protect the user in various scenarios, and the 3-D printing of several prototypes to estimate printing time, cost of materials, and comfort level at the user's face. Results showed that the combination of different digital tools can increase efficiency in the design, performance assessment, and production of customized N95-rated respirators.

Predicting preferred motorcycle riding postures to support human factors/ergonomic trade-off analyses within a multi-objective optimisation-based digital human model.

Digital human models (DHM) can predict how users might interact with new vehicle geometry during early-stage design, an important precursor to conducting trade-off analyses. However, predicting human postures requires assumptions about which performance criteria best predict realistic postures. Focusing on the design of motorcycles, we do not know what performance criteria drive preferred riding postures. Addressing this gap, we aimed to identify which performance criteria and corresponding weightings best predicted preferred motorcycle riding postures when using a DHM. To address our aim, we surveyed the literature to find experimental data specifying joint angles that correspond to preferred riding postures. We then deployed a response surface methodology to determine which performance criteria and weightings optimally predicted the preferred riding postures when using a DHM. Weighting the minimisation of the discomfort performance criteria (an aggregate of joint range of motion, displacement from neutral and joint torque) best predicted preferred motorcycle riding postures.

This study describes how we learned what performance criteria and weightings were necessary to best predict riding postures for a cruiser-like motorcycle when using a digital human model. We learned to prioritise the minimise discomfort performance criteria to predict riding postures that best match experimental data.