Background/Objectives: Bone grafting is fundamental in oral implantology in order to achieve appropriate esthetic and functional results. One of the options for bone grafting is the use of allografts, which can be produced using femoral heads removed during orthopedic surgeries in accordance with the principles of the circular economy. The aim of this study is to examine the environmental impacts of the production of cancellous block and granulates of bone graft materials produced in this way. Methods: The cradle-to-gate life cycle assessment was performed at the Petz Aladár University Teaching Hospital Tissue Bank Department, Győr, Hungary, with the system boundaries defined and the bone graft material produced during a production process defined as a functional unit. The environmental impacts were determined with the OpenLCA v2.5.0. software, using the ReCiPe v1.03 2016 midpoint (H) and endpoint (H) assessment methods. Results: During the production process, 500 g of bone graft material is produced in both forms, packaged as 1 g. The carbon footprint of the production of the cancellous bone block was 88,972 kgCO2-Eq, while that of the bone granulates was 100,033 kgCO2-Eq, to which the chemicals used for the degreasing and deantigenization of the bone tissue contributed the most. Within the impact categories, the material resources of metals–minerals, terrestrial ecotoxicity and climate change contributed the most to the environmental impacts. Within most impact categories, electricity was the most significant influencing factor. Conclusions: The environmental impact of the production of bone substitute granulates is greater than that of the bone block, to which the packaging of the products contributes primarily.

Objectives: This study investigated the effects of three over-the-counter (OTC) whitening products, whitening pen (WP, Dazzling White Instant Whitening Pen, Dazzling White, Grand Rapids, MI, USA), whitening mouthwash (MW, Colgate Optic White, Colgate-Palmolive, New York, NY, USA), and whitening toothpaste (TP, Crest 3D White, Procter & Gamble, Cincinnati, OH, USA), on the microhardness, gloss retention, and surface roughness of a nanofilled resin composite (Filtek Z350 XT Universal Restorative, 3M ESPE). Methods: Composite resin specimens were prepared and subjected to treatment with WP, MW, or TP. Microhardness, gloss retention, and surface roughness were measured before and after treatment. Data were subjected to statistical analysis, with normality assessed by Shapiro–Wilk testing. Parametric data were summarized as mean ± SD, and differences were evaluated using paired t-tests and one-way ANOVA with a significance level of p ≤ 0. 05. Results: All whitening products significantly altered the tested surface properties. Microhardness decreased in all groups (MD [95% CI]: 2.28 [1.84–2.71] for WP, 5.05 [4.22–5.88] for MW, and 3.09 [2.35–3.83] for TP; p < 0.001), with the greatest reduction observed in the MW group. Gloss retention also declined significantly (MD [95% CI]: 9.52 [6.28–12.76] for WP, 17.97 [14.92–21.01] for MW, and 18.92 [15.64–22.21] for TP; p < 0.001), with TP and MW showing greater loss compared to WP. Surface roughness increased significantly within each group (MD [95% CI]: −0.07 [–0.10 to −0.04] for WP, −0.23 [–0.30 to −0.16] for MW, and −0.25 [–0.38 to −0.13] for TP; p < 0.001), although no significant differences were found among groups in post-treatment values. Conclusions: OTC whitening products adversely affected the optical and mechanical properties of Z350 XT universal composite resin. Whitening MW caused the most pronounced microhardness reduction, while MW and TP induced greater gloss loss than WP. Clinicians should consider the potential impact of whitening products on resin composite restorations when advising patients on their use.

Background/Objectives: The use of zirconia implants is gaining traction as a potential alternative to titanium. Although having excellent properties, the zirconia surface has limited osteogenic potential. The purpose of this study was to produce, for the first time, mechanically stable, thick micron-scale hydroxyapatite coatings on zirconia implant material using radiofrequency (RF) magnetron sputtering. Methods: Zirconia samples were coated with HA using an RF magnetron sputtering device at a temperature of 125 °C for 20 h with 155 W of power. The procedure included rotating the substrate at a speed of 10 rpm while an argon gas flow was maintained continuously. Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis, atomic force microscopy, and Vickers hardness measurements were used to evaluate the coat’s characteristics. Results: A smooth hydroxyapatite coating layer that was consistent and free of cracks was observed in all FESEM pictures. The EDX study revealed that the substrate surface contains HA particles, and the ratio of calcium (Ca) to phosphorus (P) was 16.58 to 11.31, which is very close to the ratio in original HA. FESEM cross-section pictures showed good adhesion between the coating and substrate without any gaps, and the coating thickness was 5 µm on average. A statistically significant difference was found in the roughness analysis between the samples of uncoated Zr and HA-coated Zr (p-value < 0.05). Conclusions: Zirconia implant material can be coated with a uniform layer of HA, displaying good adhesion and a thickness of a few micrometers when using magnetron sputtering for an extended period of time.

Upper limb deficiencies can limit the range of tasks children can perform. Current prosthetics provide overall good performance to increase the activities that users can complete, but challenges remain. Body- or electrically powered prostheses struggle to restore the full range of motion needed for specific tasks. Currently, these systems do not allow for controlled hand closure or opening across all possible postures. A breathing-powered prototype named Airbender, which extracts energy from a breathing input by means of a Tesla turbine, provides the possibility of operation in any position. This paper introduces a novel design for a multi-finger actuated breathing-powered upper limb prosthetic concept and analyses its performance through a series of lab-based experiments. Results show that such a design could provide a fully controllable system. The final assembled design is capable of achieving full actuation under a flow rate of 340 Ls/min. The results obtained demonstrate that a functional multi-finger actuated breathing-powered upper limb prosthesis could be feasible and opens a path for future research in the field, with the ultimate goal of reducing the minimum flow rate required and actuation time to further improve its functionality.

Background: Various socket designs exist, linking the residual limb together with the prosthetic components to restore the ability to walk; however, lack of socket comfort is a frequent complaint. Objective: To evaluate the impact of socket design on end-user comfort and mobility. Methods: A randomized crossover trial was set to compare comfort and mobility of above-knee amputees (AKAs) wearing an ischial containment (IC) or subischial (I-SUB) socket. Patients actively wearing IC sockets were recruited from 10 rehabilitation centers across the country. They were then fitted for an I-SUB socket by Certified Prosthetists (CPs) as an alternate socket. Participants were randomly assigned to start with one or the other socket. After a minimum of 2 weeks, each participant evaluated the Socket Comfort Score (SCS) (primary outcome) in various situations, performed the 2-min walk test, and answered the PLUS-M questionnaire (secondary outcomes). Results: A total of 25 participants were included, of whom 23 completed the study with full (n = 21) or partial data (n = 2). SCS were improved with I-SUB compared with IC in all situations, with significant differences in general, when sitting on a rigid chair, sitting in a car, and standing. The differences in self-reported mobility and walking distance at the 2-min walk test were not significant. At the end of the study, more than 80% of the participants chose to keep the I-SUB socket for their daily use. Conclusions: For the first time, this study supports that the subischial suction socket improves comfort in daily life without negatively impacting user mobility in a group of individuals with AKA.

Background: Rehabilitation of head and neck cancer patients with acquired intraoral defects is challenging and requires multidisciplinary collaboration. This case report describes an integrated surgical and prosthetic approach in which palatal obturator rehabilitation is used to restore palatal integrity, speech, swallowing, aesthetics, and overall quality of life after maxillectomy. The objective is to show how careful surgical planning to optimize prosthetic prognosis, combined with a precisely designed obturator prosthesis, can achieve satisfactory functional rehabilitation. Methods: A man in his 50s with sinonasal carcinoma underwent partial left maxillectomy followed by radiotherapy and chemotherapy. The defect was classified as Aramany class I and Brown class 2b, and the surgical resection was planned to preserve structures favorable to prosthetic support. Prosthetic management included fabrication of a removable partial denture incorporating a hollow-bulb obturator. Results: During trial and delivery, the patient demonstrated improved speech and swallowing, enhanced denture stability, and favorable aesthetics. The patient reported satisfaction with functional and cosmetic outcomes and was provided with instructions for use and cleaning, with a plan for regular follow-up. Conclusions: Palatal obturator prostheses remain a gold standard for unilateral maxillectomy rehabilitation when adequate retention is achievable. Surgical-prosthetic collaboration permits restoring palatal contours, and dentition can normalize speech and swallowing, and substantially improve the quality of life.

Background: Postoperative infections remain a major complication in spinal surgeries involving intersomatic screws, often compromising osseointegration and long-term implant stability. Questions/Purposes: This study evaluated a nanotextured titanium oxide surface with nanopillar-like morphology designed to reduce bacterial colonization while preserving mechanical integrity and promoting bone integration. Methods: Ti6Al4V screws were studied in three batches: control, passivated with HCl and acid mixture treatment to obtain nanotopographies on the surfaces. To create the nanotopographies, the screws were treated with a 1:1 (v/v) sulfuric acid–hydrogen peroxide solution for 2 h. Surface morphology, roughness, wettability, and surface energy were analyzed by SEM, confocal microscopy, and contact angle measurements. Corrosion and ion release were assessed electrochemically and by ICP-MS, respectively. Mechanical behavior, cytocompatibility, mineralization, and antibacterial efficacy were evaluated in vitro. Osseointegration was analyzed in rabbit tibiae after 21 days by histology and bone–implant contact (BIC). Results: The treatment produced uniform nanopillars (Ra = 0.12 µm) with increased hydrophilicity (49° vs. 102° control) and higher surface energy. Mechanical properties and fatigue resistance (~600 N, 10 million cycles) were unaffected. Corrosion currents and Ti ion release remained low. Nanopillar surfaces enhanced osteoblast adhesion and mineralization and reduced bacterial viability by >60% for most strains. In vivo, Bone Index Contact (BIC) was higher for nanopillars (52.0%) than for HCl-treated (43.8%) and control (40.1%) screws, showing a positive osseointegration trend (p > 0.005). Conclusions: The proposed acid-etching process generates a stable, scalable nanotopography with promising antibacterial and osteogenic potential while maintaining the alloy’s mechanical and chemical integrity. Clinical relevance: This simple, scalable, and drug-free surface modification offers a promising approach to reduce postoperative infections and promote bone integration in spinal implants.

Background/Objectives: The rapid evolution of digital technologies has significantly transformed prosthodontic workflows, improving clinical precision, communication, and patient satisfaction. However, the extent to which dental professionals perceive, integrate, and evaluate these technologies remains insufficiently standardized. This study aimed to develop and validate a questionnaire for assessing perceptions, attitudes, perceived advantages, barriers, and future intentions regarding the use of digital technologies in prosthodontic practice. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 420 dental professionals (305 dentists and 115 dental technicians) from Northeastern Romania. The 27-item questionnaire, structured on five theoretical dimensions, was distributed online via the Survio platform. Internal consistency was assessed using Cronbach’s Alpha, and construct validity was analyzed through Exploratory Factor Analysis (Principal Component Analysis with Varimax rotation). Conclusions: Cronbach’s Alpha coefficients ranged from 0.700 to 0.799 across the five dimensions, indicating acceptable to very good internal reliability. The Kaiser–Meyer–Olkin value (0.646) and Bartlett’s Test of Sphericity (p < 0.001) confirmed data suitability for factor analysis. The validated questionnaire represents a reliable and conceptually coherent tool for evaluating professional perspectives on digitalization in prosthodontics. Its application can inform educational strategies, guide institutional investments, and support a balanced transition toward integrated digital workflows in clinical and laboratory settings.

Background/Objectives: Amputation often leads to decreased body image satisfaction and self-acceptance, affecting mental health and social integration. The Amputee Body Image Scale (ABIS) is a validated tool designed to assess satisfaction and measure body image acceptance. The scale has been translated into many languages to improve rehabilitation services for individuals with amputation worldwide; however, a validated Arabic version of this scale does not currently exist. The study aims to cross-culturally adapt and validate the ABIS for Arabic-speaking individuals with lower-limb amputation. Methods: A cross-cultural adaptation was performed according to the International Test Commission (ITC) guidelines. The adapted Arabic version of the scale was completed by 100 Jordanian individuals with lower-limb amputations. Their responses were then statistically analyzed using factor analysis to assess content and construct validity and Cronbach’s α to assess internal consistency (reliability). Results: The Arabic version of the ABIS demonstrated strong construct validity (KMO = 0.898; Bartlett’s test p < 0.001) and high internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.92), while factor analysis suggested the multidimensionality of the scale after cross-cultural adaptation. Conclusions: The findings suggest the preliminary validity and reliability of the Arabic version of the ABIS, supporting its potential use in rehabilitation centres to assess body image satisfaction among Arabic-speaking individuals with amputation. Nevertheless, further improvements are warranted to adapt the scale to Arabic culture.

Background: Advancements in low-cost additive manufacturing and artificial intelligence have enabled new avenues for developing accessible myoelectric prostheses. However, achieving reliable real-time control and ensuring mechanical durability remain significant challenges, particularly for affordable systems designed for resource-constrained settings. Objective: This study aimed to design and validate a low-cost, 3D-printed prosthetic arm that integrates single-channel electromyography (EMG) sensing with machine learning for real-time gesture classification. The device incorporates an anatomically inspired structure with 14 passive mechanical degrees of freedom (DOF) and 5 actively actuated tendon-driven DOF. The objective was to evaluate the system’s ability to recognize open, close, and power-grip gestures and to assess its functional grasping performance. Method: A Fast Fourier Transform (FFT)-based feature extraction pipeline was implemented on single-channel EMG data collected from able-bodied participants. A Support Vector Machine (SVM) classifier was trained on 5000 EMG samples to distinguish three gesture classes and benchmarked against alternative models. Mechanical performance was assessed through power-grip evaluation, while material feasibility was examined using PLA-based 3D-printed components. No amputee trials or long-term durability tests were conducted in this phase. Results: The SVM classifier achieved 92.7% accuracy, outperforming K-Nearest Neighbors and Artificial Neural Networks. The prosthetic hand demonstrated a 96.4% power-grip success rate, confirming stable grasping performance despite its simplified tendon-driven actuation. Limitations include the reliance on single-channel EMG, testing restricted to able-bodied subjects, and the absence of dynamic loading or long-term mechanical reliability assessments, which collectively limit clinical generalizability. Overall, the findings confirm the technical feasibility of integrating low-cost EMG sensing, machine learning, and 3D printing for real-time prosthetic control while emphasizing the need for expanded biomechanical testing and amputee-specific validation prior to clinical application.