Pleasing Aesthetics Research Articles

The effect of preheating on the color stability of microhybrid composite resin after immersion in carbonated beverages and black tea: an experimental study

Introduction: Composite resin is commonly used in restorative dentistry due to its pleasing aesthetics. However, this material tends to experience discoloration, a vital standard reflecting the restoration’s success. Studies show that preheating is effective in maintaining the color stability of other types of composite resin; nevertheless, the effect on microhybrid composite resin is not fully understood. This study aimed to analyze the effect of preheating on the color stability of microhybrid composite resins after immersion in carbonated beverages and black tea. Method: Twenty-four Z250 shade A2 composite resin discs, each with a diameter of 7 mm and a thickness of 2 mm, were divided into four groups (n=6). While groups I and II underwent a preheating process at 68°C before being soaked in carbonated drinks and black tea, groups III and IV were prepared at room temperature (25°C) without preheating and soaked in carbonated drinks and black tea. The discoloration of the samples was determined utilizing a UV-Vis spectrophotometer according to CIEL*a*b* color space. Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA followed by the Least Significant Difference (LSD) test. Result: Preheating increased the color stability of composite resins. Preheated composite resins experienced significantly lower discoloration than composite resins at room temperature after soaking in carbonated drinks and black tea (p<0.05). Conclusion: preheating can minimize the color change of microhybrid composite resin after immersion in carbonated beverages and black tea.

From Interior Aesthetics to Perceived Indoor Air Quality: A Home Halo Effect

Many odorless and invisible pollutants contribute to poor indoor air quality at home. Previous research has shown that subjective ratings of indoor air quality are biased by a home halo effect. This effect is characterized by the tendency to subjectively assess air quality based on pleasant aspects that are unrelated to its objective quality. We hypothesize that the pleasing aesthetics of a living room image will increase the perceived indoor air quality in the room and influence the intention to improve air quality. In three studies, participants ( n = 1,016) were exposed to an image of a low- or high-aesthetic living room. Perceived self-reported knowledge (SRK) of indoor air quality was surveyed. Results showed that indoor air quality was rated as better in a highly aesthetic living room. Participants with low perceived SRK were less likely to ventilate the low aesthetic living room. Practical implications for communications on indoor air risk and interior design are discussed, especially the integration of knowledge surrounding the aesthetic halo effect into the education and design processes of interior designers to heighten awareness among occupants and prioritize materials minimizing indoor air pollution. For occupants, a necessity for enhanced comprehension of indoor air quality and the adoption of proactive measures is examined through public health policies that address broader concerns surrounding indoor air quality and endorse initiatives for disseminating information related to indoor concerns.

A cadaveric study and clinical application of the free superficial circumflex iliac artery perforator flap reconstruction of limb soft tissue defects

Introduction In recent decades the superficial circumflex iliac artery perforator (SCIP) flap technique has gradually overcome the previous disadvantages of its pedicle and donor site to be widely applied in treating tissue's defects. This article investigates the vascular anatomy of the SCIP flap and evaluates the result of using the flap to reconstruct limb defects. Materials and Methods The study was performed in two parts. Firstly a cross-sectional descriptive anatomical study comprising 49 groin dissections in 25 cadavers, with contrast radiographic demonstration of the vascular anatomy. Secondly a retrospective case series of 51 free SCIP flaps in 49 patients. Surgical outcomes were evaluated using the Vancouver Scar Scale on the regional function and the aesthetics of implanted flap and donor sites. Results The results of anatomical analysis on cadavers showed the superficial circumflex iliac arteries were detected in all specimens with an average diameter of 1.4 ± 0.3 mm. The superficial subcutaneous venous systems were also recorded, including two veins (superficial circumflex vein and superficial epigastric vein) in 79.5% with an average diameter of 2.3 ± 0.6 mm. The flap results showed the alive flap rate was 90.2%, partial-necrosis flap was 3.9% and total necrosis of the flap in 5.9%. In the aesthetic evaluation, fine line scars were seen in 13/51 cases (25.5%), stretch scars in 33/51 cases (64.7%) and hypertrophic scars in 5/51 patients (9.8%), with no cases of keloid scars. Conclusion The SCIP flap is a reliable free-tissue transfer for reconstructing limb soft tissue defects. Moreover, the SCIP flap is an ideal flap with pleasing aesthetics because the donor-site scar is situated in a well-hidden site. Care must be taken when vein grafts are used to lengthen the flap as flap necrosis rates increase.

Tunable Acoustic Properties in Reconfigurable Kerf Structures

Freeform structures are appealing in architecture owing to their ability to combine pleasing aesthetics and functionality. Regarding architectural functionality, freeform structures have the potential to meet desired acoustic requirements in indoor architecture through the proper design of materials and geometries. Kerfing is one of the practical methods to generate reconfigurable freeform structures from rigid planar construction materials. This study aims to explore tunable room acoustic characteristics through the use of kerf structures. In this study, we investigate acoustic responses of kerf structures made out of a medium density fiber board having a hexagon spiral kerf pattern with varying cut densities. Experiments are conducted to measure the acoustic properties (e.g., absorption coefficient) of the kerf unit cells with different cut densities. We then design kerf patterns using the parametric design method and explore the flexibility of kerf structures with different kerf cut densities. We model the kerf structures of varying kerf cut density and shape reconfigurations and use a ray-tracing simulation to study their impacts on the acoustic performance, i.e., reverberation times, of a small office space. Overall, this study leverages the unique attributes of kerf structures such as different cut densities and shape reconfigurations to tune the room acoustics in addition to their usage in indoor architectures due to their pleasing aesthetics.

Application of low-temperature plasma for the removal of copper chloride layers on bronze Wares

Archaeological objects based on copper alloys (such as bronze wares) usually suffer from “bronze disease” that results from the existence of CuCl on the surfaces. The surface-coating Cu2(OH)3Cl can release Cl− and lead to further corrosion during the storage procedure. The central aim of the work is the verity the effectiveness of low-temperature radio-frequency (RF) plasma for the removal of CuCl and Cu2(OH)3Cl from the bronze wares. In this work, CuCl and Cu2(OH)3Cl patina were synthesized on copper by a simple solution method. The chemical and aesthetic features before and after plasma treatment were characterized using optical microscopy (OM), SEM-EDS, XRD, and XPS. The results show that Ar-H2 plasma could reduce the CuCl to Cu efficiently, which achieves pleasing esthetics as well as removes the chlorine (Cl atomic ratio decrease from 46.0 to 3.6%). For Cu2(OH)3Cl, the air plasma treatment exhibit better performance compared to the Ar-H2 plasma treatment, judging from the aesthetic effect and the removal effect of chlorine (Cl atomic ratio decrease from 14.8 to 3.3%).

Stereotomy and L’Art du Trait: The Guitarde as a Case Study

One example of the combination of structurally sound construction techniques and attention to pleasing aesthetics can be seen in the guitarde, an elaborate type of dormer that was developed in the Loire Valley in France during the eighteenth century. Although the traditional methods of joinery are still taught and practiced, their use in contemporary guitardes is uncommon. Historic preservation work and the insights provided by the construction practices employed in buildings being preserved may give us a new perspective, providing a more holistic and profound approach to sustainable architecture than is allowed by an exclusive reliance on new technologies.

Dynamic response of flexible viscoelastic kerf structures of freeform shapes

Kerfing which is also known as relief cutting is a technique used to create flexible freeform surfaces out of rigid planar surfaces. Due to their pleasing aesthetics, flexibility, and ability to be molded into desired freeform shapes, they have several potential applications in engineering and architecture. The flexibility and reconfigurability of kerf structures depend on several kerf parameters such as cut density, size of the unit cell, cut thickness, cut pattern, etc. This study focuses on using kerf structures to create freeform surfaces and understanding their dynamic response in terms of mode shapes, resonance frequencies, and stress wave propagation of reconfigurable large-scale kerf structures. The effect of kerf cut density and unit cell size on the unit-cell modal behaviors is first investigated using both mathematical modeling and experiments. A beam element model is used to capture deformations of kerf structures. Next, the shape reconfigurable behaviors of two kerf panels with uniform cut density and transitioning cut density are presented. The dynamic response of these two kerf panels is then examined. The analysis of large-scale kerf panels demonstrated the capability of the beam element model to capture the modal response of kerf panels. The flexibility of the kerf panels enables local and global shape reconfigurations, which can alter the dynamic response (i.e., modal response and stress wave propagation) of the kerf panels. We perform a comparative study on the effect of shape reconfiguration (local and global) on the modal response and stress propagation behavior of the kerf panel. Overall, these findings would help design kerf structures for indoor and outdoor architectures with desired performance requirements.

Utilization of 3D printed orthoses for musculoskeletal conditions of the upper extremity: A systematic review

Study DesignSystematic Review Introduction3D printed orthoses are emerging as a possible option in the field of hand therapy to fabricate conventional casts and orthoses. It is unknown how this technology is currently being used to treat upper extremity musculoskeletal conditions, and if 3D orthoses are comparable to custom- made low temperature thermoplastic orthoses fabricated by hand therapists. Purpose of the StudyThe primary aim of this review was to investigate the utilization, effectiveness and feasibility of 3D printed technology to manufacture custom orthoses for musculoskeletal conditions of the upper extremity. MethodsStudies describing 3D printed orthoses or casts used in treatment with patients were included following a comprehensive literature search using CINAHL, PubMed, Medline, ProQuest, and EBSCO databases. The selected studies had to address musculoskeletal conditions of the elbow, wrist, hand and/or digits that would typically be immobilized with a cast or brace or orthotic or orthosis. ResultsTen studies met the inclusion criteria. Study designs included case studies, case series, and 1 randomized clinical trial. 3D printed orthoses/casts appear to be comfortable, provide adequate immobilization, and have pleasing aesthetics. However, expensive equipment, lack of appropriate software and scanning tools and lack of highly skilled clinicians are all factors preventing the implementation of 3D printed orthoses into current clinical practice. Discussion3D printed orthoses appear to be effective at immobilization of a limb, aesthetically pleasing, and utilize lightweight and well -ventilated materials. However, the feasibility of implementing 3D printing technology in hand therapy settings remains challenging in part due to the resources required. ConclusionsWhile 3D printing shows promise, the high cost of equipment, lack of training and skill of clinicians and the long time required for production are all factors that need to be improved to make 3D printing a viable option in the hand therapy setting.

FINISHING AND POLISHING OF DIRECT COMPOSITE RESTORATIONS - A REVIEW

Contemporary cosmetic dentists are expected to create realistic and seamless restorations that mimic natural tooth structures. Recent advancements in composite resin systems have improved the practitioners ability to deliver optimal results using chair-side techniques. Many times, the form and function is achieved but the surface of these restorations is not smooth. This might lead to rough or uneven surfaces which over time invite microbial flora leading to an inevitable failure of the restoration. To avoid such failures and to satisfy this patient-driven demand for aesthetic restorations, the use of exemplary finishing and polishing materials is required. These techniques of finishing and polishing helps to achieve the proper form and function of the restoration along with pleasing aesthetics and the maintenance of proper periodontal and gingival health. This article aims to briefly outline finishing and polishing of composite restorations.

Old is Gold - Modified Dentures Doing Wonders

Esthetics has become an integral part of prosthesis. Prosthetic rehabilitation of a completely or partially edentulous patient no longer confines to only replacement of missing teeth but has expanded to the enhancement of esthetics by various treatment modalities. Dentist needs to be updated with the various treatment options for providing proper functioning with pleasing esthetics. This article aims to provide with an easily constructed, inexpensive, and practical removable prosthesis to optimize the esthetic and functional outcomes in the special situations, while permitting cleansability of the prosthesis and supporting tissues.

Comparative Performance of Chemical and Biological-based Products in Management of Algal Leaf Spot on Magnolia

Magnolia trees (Magnolia sp.) are a popular choice for consumers when choosing flowering woody plants for landscapes. Magnolia species grow in a wide variety of both temperate and tropical locations. Southern magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora) is one of the more popular magnolias due to its pleasing aesthetics: large showy flowers in a range of colors and evergreen foliage. However, magnolias can be affected by algal leaf spot. Algal leaf spot is caused by Cephaleuros virescens, which is a widespread plant parasitic green alga. There has been little research on how to treat algal leaf spot on magnolia plants. This study focuses on identifying effective biological- and chemical-based fungicides for the management of algal leaf spot disease of magnolia plants. Two experiments were conducted in a randomized complete block design with six replications per treatment and a total of 12 treatments, including a nontreated control. The first experiment (Expt. 1) was conducted in a shade house (56% shade) at McMinnville, TN, using southern magnolia plants. The second experiment (Expt. 2) was conducted at a commercial nursery in McMinnvillle, TN, in a field plot planted with ‘Jane’ magnolia (Magnolia liliiflora ‘Nigra’ × Magnolia stellata ‘Rosea’). The algal leaf spot disease severity, disease progression, plant marketability and growth parameters were evaluated. In both experiments, all treatments reduced algal leaf spot disease severity and disease progress in comparison with the nontreated control. In Expt. 1, copper octanoate, copper oxychloride, chlorothalonil water-dispersible granules, chlorothalonil suspension concentrate, didecyl dimethyl ammonium chloride, azoxystrobin + benzovindiflupyr, hydrogen peroxide + peroxyacetic acid, and mono- and di-potassium salts of phosphorus acid + hydrogen peroxide reduced the disease severity and disease progress the most and were not statistically different from one another. In Expt. 2, azoxystrobin + benzovindiflupyr, didecyl dimethyl ammonium chloride, and copper oxychloride significantly reduced disease severity and disease progress (area under disease progress curve). Treatments had no deleterious effect on plant growth parameters such as height and width, and no phytotoxicity of applied treatments or defoliation was observed. Treated magnolia plants had better plant marketability compared with the nontreated control plants. The findings of this study will help growers to achieve better management of algal leaf spot disease on magnolia trees.

A novel USP-HPTLC protocol compliant method for the simultaneous quantification of E-102, E-124, and E-133 azo dyes in consumer goods

Azo dyes, in spite of being additives, are indeed an integral constituent of consumer goods with bio-therapeutic values. The addition of dyes is for consumer compliance which lends a sense of pleasing aesthetics to the consumption ready product, “a kind of placebo effect”. Consequently, imperative need of the hour is felt to quantify such azo dyes due to complications like skin allergic reactions, genotoxicity, and ADHD symptoms leading to carcinogenicity in the long run, by apt analytical technique. In the proposed research, a pivotal USP-HPTLC compliant, validated, digitized method with multiple wavelength detection using TLC silica gel 60 F254 aluminum plates is developed. Mobile phase comprising of n-butanol–isopropanol–25% ammonia (GR grade)–water (65:20:10:5, v/v) has been put to task and subjected to spectro-densitometric scan for their simultaneous screening and quantification. Validation was done as per ICH and US FDA guidelines incorporating the latest 21 CFR approved, digital image CAMAG visionCATS software. The results revealed that the proposed method was highly sensitive with good linear relationship R = 99.999% and RSD of 0.456%. Thus, the method may be employed as standard quality control tool in consumer goods for characterization of azo dyes, which are still in the spectrum of doubt especially given the opaque data that surfaces on their safety profiles.

Relative attractiveness of ruderals and ornamental plants to flower-visiting insects in a tropical anthropogenic landscape

Insects are declining in many parts of the world. Under this context, flower gardens are useful for insect conservation in human settlements. However, this tool is rarely used in the tropics due to low awareness and lack of information on suitable plants. Therefore, our objective was to identify a planting design for native insect conservation in anthropogenic landscapes in Sri Lanka. We selected seven wild, ruderal plant species and a cultivated ornamental plant, Zinnia elegans. We established three planting designs with four replicates each: (1) only ruderal plants, (2) ruderal plants mixed with Z. elegans, and (3) only Z. elegans. Insect monitoring was done in each replicate for five sunny days. Over the entire study, we observed > 16,000 visits from 96 insect species and seven orders. Hymenopterans and lepidopterans comprised the most species and the most visits to the plots. The three planting designs differed significantly in terms of insect visitation and richness. For most insect orders, the ruderal design was more or equally attractive to insects compared to the mixed design, and more attractive than the Z. elegans design. Insect community composition was also significantly different among three designs, with 38 species identified as significant indicators of one of the planting designs. The highest number of indicator species was recorded in the ruderal design. Our recommendation depends on the landscape context. The ruderal planting design was best for insects and easy to establish and maintain, but the mixed design (a close second) might be more suitable in areas with high human activity due to its pleasing aesthetics.

A Critique of the Architecture of Faculty of Science Complex, University of Lagos, Nigeria

Architectural criticism can be carried out using three distinct methods. These are descriptive, normative, and interpretive evaluations. Descriptive evaluation gives in-depth graphical and verbal expressions of pieces of architecture, thereby, ensuring in depth understanding of the work. The paper critiques the architecture of Faculty of Science Complex of the University of Lagos in order to provide intellectual and unbiased understanding of the design and architecture so as to make it a reference/study material which could influence future designs. It was built during the oil boom (1971-1977) by Godwin and Hopwood Architects. The complex can be classified as an international style, mostly related to modern architecture. This paper describes the building form, the building conditions, basic elements and sensory elements using the principles discussed in “Analyzing Architecture” by Simon Unwin. Findings reveal that a pleasing aesthetics of the design were achieved using the principles of orthodox modernism. However the present conditions of the building distorts the innovative facade of the building, thereby reducing the original science behind the orientation and elements of the building which were consciously applied in order to realise maximum energy savings and occupant comfort. Keywords : criticism, architecture, faculty of science, University of Lagos DOI : 10.7176/ADS/77-07 Publication date :October 31 st 2019

Classic and cute: Framing biodiversity in Japan through rural landscapes and mascot characters

ABSTRACTJapan is an active player in international biodiversity politics and has ambitious domestic biodiversity targets. The government considers environmental communication crucial for reaching these. This article analyzes two major frames that state institutions employ for communicating biodiversity: traditional agricultural landscapes called satoyama and embodied mascot characters called yurukyara. Both frames attempt to reach the public by transcending the discursive reality. Employing well-established stylistic devices (court culture, Japanese cute), prestigious metanarratives (Japanese as nature people), and established institutional systems of tourism and governance, the frames have reached huge popularity. Yet awareness surveys indicate that people continue to consider biodiversity a matter of governmental policy rather than individual lifestyle. There has been a clear positive effect on the localities singled out for satoyama campaigns. However, it can be argued that the overall effect of celebratory framing coupled with pleasing aesthetics favors complacency and does not invite new forms of civic mobilization.

Correlation of Vertical Dimension of Occlusion in Parents and Their Offspring: A Cephalometric Study.

Background:Establishment of optimal vertical dimension of occlusion (VDO) for prosthetic patients, either complete denture or fixed full mouth rehabilitation, is a vital step to discern at a pleasing esthetics and harmonious function. None of the experiments in the literature studied the hopeful inheritance of the VDO from a parent to offspring.Purpose:The aim of this study was to establish the dominant mode of inheritance of VDO from parents to offspring using cephalometric landmarks.Materials and Methods:Following the inclusion criteria, 20 families were selected and explained about the study design. Individual cephalograph of father, mother, and offspring were traced out of bony landmarks. The reference planes were delineated for the measurements from maxillary incisal (I) tip and mesio-palatal cusp tip of maxillary first molar (M) to palatal (PP) and inter-foramina (IFP) planes.Results:In all the distances measured, there exists a statistically significant difference between both father and son and mother and son. For the measured IPP, MPP, and IIFP distances, there is no statistically significant difference existed between father and daughter. However, in MIFP distance, there is a significant difference between father and daughter. Except for the IIFP distance between mother and daughter (P = 0.08), in all other measured distances, there existed a statistically significant difference.Conclusion:There is no dominant mode of inheritance from the parent to the son with respect to the measured parameters. Inheritance was observed to be stronger between father and daughter than between mother and daughter.

Size characterization of metal oxide nanoparticles in commercial sunscreen products

There is an increase in the usage of engineered metal oxide (TiO2 and ZnO) nanoparticles in commercial sunscreens due to their pleasing esthetics and greater sun protection efficiency. A number of studies have been done concerning the safety of nanoparticles in sunscreen products. In order to do the safety assessment, it is pertinent to develop novel analytical techniques to analyze these nanoparticles in commercial sunscreens. This study is focused on developing analytical techniques that can efficiently determine particle size of metal oxides present in the commercial sunscreens. To isolate the mineral UV filters from the organic matrices, specific procedures such as solvent extraction were identified. In addition, several solvents (hexane, chloroform, dichloromethane, and tetrahydrofuran) have been investigated. The solvent extraction using tetrahydrofuran worked well for all the samples investigated. The isolated nanoparticles were characterized by using several different techniques such as transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, dynamic light scattering, differential centrifugal sedimentation, and x-ray diffraction. Elemental analysis mapping studies were performed to obtain individual chemical and morphological identities of the nanoparticles. Results from the electron microscopy techniques were compared against the bulk particle sizing techniques. All of the sunscreen products tested in this study were found to contain nanosized (≤100 nm) metal oxide particles with varied shapes and aspect ratios, and four among the 11 products were showed to have anatase TiO2.

Clinical relevance of dimensional bone and soft tissue alterations post‐extraction in esthetic sites

The key to achieving pleasing esthetics in implant dentistry is a thorough understanding of the biological processes driving dimensional bone and soft tissue alterations post-extraction. The aim of the present report is first to characterize the extent of bone and soft tissue changes post-extraction and second to identify potential factors influencing tissue preservation in order to facilitate successful treatment outcomes. The facial bone wall thickness has been identified as the most critical factor influencing bone resorption and can be used as a prognostic tool in order to identify sites at risk for future facial bone loss subsequent to tooth extraction. Clinical studies indicated that thin bone wall phenotypes exhibiting a facial bone wall thickness of 1mm or less revealed progressive bone resorption with a vertical loss of 7.5mm, whereas thick bone wall phenotypes showed only minor bone resorption with a vertical loss of 1.1mm. This is in contrast to the dimensional soft tissue alterations. Thin bone wall phenotypes revealed a spontaneous soft tissue thickening after flapless extraction by a factor of seven, whereas thick bone wall phenotypes showed no significant changes in the soft tissue dimensions after 8weeks of healing. In sites exhibiting a limited bone resorption rate, immediate implant placement may be considered. If such ideal conditions are not present, other timing protocols are recommended to achieve predictable and pleasing esthetics. Socket preservation techniques for ridge preservation utilizing different biomaterials and/or barrier membranes often result in a better maintenance of tissue volumes, although the inevitable biological process of post-extraction bone resorption and bone modeling cannot be arrested. In summary, the knowledge of the biological events driving dimensional tissue alterations post-extraction should be integrated into the comprehensive treatment plan in order to limit tissue loss and to maximize esthetic outcomes.

Parametric Study of Single Cell Box Girder Bridge under Different Radii of Curvature

Box girders are now prominently used in freeway and bridge systems because of its structural efficiency, better stability, serviceability, economy of construction and pleasing aesthetics. Due to its high torsional rigidity box girders are most suited for curved bridges. In the present investigation, a comparative study of straight and curved box girder bridges with trapezoidal cross section has been carried out. The analysis is carried under the dead load, super imposed dead load, live load of IRC Class A tracked vehicle and prestressed load .This paper focus on the parametric study of box girders with different radius of curvature by keeping the span, cross sectional shape and material properties constant. The parametric investigations performed on curved box girders helps to evaluate the effects of change in radius of curvature on the behaviour of the box girders. This study would help the bridge engineers to better understand the behaviour of straight and curved box girder bridges. The results obtained from this study will be a valuable guidance to the bridge designers.

Organic Nanoflowers from a Wide Variety of Molecules Templated by a Hierarchical Supramolecular Scaffold.

Nanoflowers (NFs) are flowered-shaped particles with overall sizes or features in the nanoscale. Beyond their pleasing aesthetics, NFs have found a number of applications ranging from catalysis, to sensing, to drug delivery. Compared to inorganic based NFs, their organic and hybrid counterparts are relatively underdeveloped mostly because of the lack of a reliable and versatile method for their construction. We report here a method for constructing NFs from a wide variety of biologically relevant molecules (guests), ranging from small molecules, like doxorubicin, to biomacromolecules, like various proteins and plasmid DNA. The method relies on the encapsulation of the guests within a hierarchically structured particle made from supramolecular G-quadruplexes. The size and overall flexibility of the guests dictate the broad morphological features of the resulting NFs, specifically, small and rigid guests favor the formation of NFs with spiky petals, while large and/or flexible guests promote NFs with wide petals. The results from experiments using confocal fluorescence microscopy, and scanning electron microscopy provides the basis for the proposed mechanism for the NF formation.