Digital (R)Evolution: Open-Source Softwares for Orthodontics

Among the innovations that have changed modern orthodontics, the introduction of new digital technologies in daily clinical practice has had a major impact, in particular the use of 3D models of dental arches. The possibility for direct 3D capture of arches using intraoral scanners has brought many clinicians closer to the digital world. The digital revolution of orthodontic practice requires both hardware components and dedicated software for the analysis of STL models and all other files generated by the digital workflow. However, there are some negative aspects, including the need for the clinician and technicians to learn how to use new software. In this context, we can distinguish two main software types: dedicated software (i.e., developed by orthodontic companies) and open-source software. Dedicated software tend to have a much more user-friendly interface, and be easier to use and more intuitive, due to being designed and developed for a non-expert user, but very high rental or purchase costs are an issue. Therefore, younger clinicians with more extensive digital skills have begun to look with increasing interest at open-source software. The aim of the present study was to present and discuss some of the best-known open-source software for analysis of 3D models and the creation of orthodontic devices: Blue Sky Plan, MeshMixer, ViewBox, and Blender.

A MULTI-PURPOSE CULTURAL HERITAGE DATA PLATFORM FOR 4D VISUALIZATION AND INTERACTIVE INFORMATION SERVICES

The already arduous task of collecting, processing and managing heterogeneous cultural heritage data is getting more intense in terms of indexing, interaction and dissemination. This paper presents the creation of a 4D web-based platform as a centralized data hub, moving beyond advanced photogrammetric techniques for 3D capture and multi-dimensional documentation. Precise metric data, generated by a combination of image-based, range and surveying techniques, are spatially, logically and temporally correlated with cultural and historical resources, in order to form a critical knowledge base for multiple purposes and user types. Unlike conventional information systems, the presented platform, which adopts a relational database model, has the following front-end functionalities: (i) visualization of high-resolution 3D models based on distance dependent Level of Detail (LoD) techniques; (ii) web Augmented Reality; and (iii) interactive access and retrieval services. Information deduced from the developed services is tailored to different target audiences: scientific community, private sector, public sector and general public. The case study site is the UNESCO world heritage site of Meteora, Greece, and particularly, two inaccessible huge rocks, the rock of St. Modestos, known as Modi, and the Alyssos rock.

The Validation of an Innovative Method for 3D Capture and Analysis of the Nasolabial Region in Cleft Cases

Objective: To validate a newly developed method for capturing 3-dimensional (3D) images of the nasolabial region for assessing upper lip scarring and asymmetry in surgically managed unilateral cleft lip and palate (UCLP) cases. Design: Validation study, single cohort. Materials and Methods: Eighteen surgically managed UCLP cases were recruited, the nasolabial region of each face was scanned using an intraoral scanner (IOS) to produce 3D images. The images were manually segmented to allow the calculation of surface area of the scar and upper lip asymmetry. Five professionals and 5 lay assessors subjectively evaluated the same images and graded the upper lip scarring and asymmetry at 2 separate occasions. The relationship between the subjective and objective assessments was evaluated. Results: Moderate correlation was found between subjective and objective evaluations of the upper lip scarring and total asymmetry. The captured 3D images were of good quality for the objective measurements of lip asymmetry and residual scarring. Moderate to strong correlations were detected between the 2 panels (T ranging between 0.5 and 0.9) with no significant difference ( P > .05) in the mean score of the subjectively evaluated parameters. Conclusion: The IOS is a useful tool for the capture of the nasolabial morphology. The captured 3D images are a reliable source for measuring lip asymmetry and scar surface area. The method has sufficient validity for routine clinical use and for objective outcome measures of the surgical repair of cleft lip.

Levantamiento arquitectónico y análisis arqueológico del castillo de Píñar como punto de partida para su conservación

<p>This paper presents an applied methodology for the graphic documentation, analysis and criteria determination for the protection and conservation of built heritage. One of the main risks when restoring medieval rammed earth architecture is the lacking of an optimal graphic base of its structures. This paper’s main objective is the holistic knowledge of the Píñar fortress (Granada), analysis the building sequence from an archaeological perspective, and performing a rigorous 3D survey of its structures as a fundamental procedure. This survey was carried out applying the new technologies in graphic documentation: Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV)-based multi-image photogrammetry and Structure-from-Motion (SfM) processing. The new systems of aerial three-dimensional (3D) capture and representation are changing the paradigm in the architectural heritage documentation, being much more efficient and precise. This high-quality documentation is fundamental for the archaeological research of the fortress’ building sequence, remarkably easing research as well as results dissemination. The constructive techniques and building sequence study made with archaeological methodology has revealed the complex historical evolution of Píñar fortress, since it was built in the Almohad period, with important transformations in Nasrid and Castilian periods. These alterations in such a narrow span of time shed light on the importance of this fortification in the border organization in the Late Middle Ages. The experimentation with Building Information Modelling (BIM) tools applied to heritage (HBIM) is showing its great potential in processing data linked to conceptual models, integrating graphic documentation with archaeological and historical interpretation. Nevertheless, the complexity of historical buildings and the hard work of manual modelling are making its wider use in archaeology difficult. The BIM model of Píñar fortress has been enriched with data such as type of material, building technique, chronology, pathologies and modifications, differentiating the historical phases with specific colours to make its identification easier. Its aim is to acquire a better knowledge of the fortress historical evolution, thus allowing the creation of conservation and protection strategies. The holistic knowledge of a building is a complex task that requires the work of different professionals. The ones in charge of the graphic documentation must know the survey objectives and the needs of the rest of the team. The current and future management of heritage requires professionals working on conservation with updated skills in digital technologies. The results of public heritage research with these technologies should be in open access platforms to be used by all researchers and professionals that could need them.</p>