Shree Guru Gobind Singh Tricentenary University

Maxillofacial reconstruction requires precise restoration of bone volume and anatomical alignment. Traditional bone grafting methods have limitations, such as donor site morbidity, limited availability, and suboptimal anatomical congruence. Three-dimensional (3D) printed bone substitutes offer patient-specific solutions that may overcome these challenges. To systematically evaluate and quantify the clinical efficacy of 3D-printed bone substitutes compared with traditional grafting techniques in maxillofacial reconstruction, focusing on outcomes including bone regeneration, surgical precision (distance and angular deviation), and operative duration. A comprehensive search of PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane Library was conducted up to March 2025. Randomized controlled trials and cohort studies comparing 3D-printed bone substitutes with traditional methods in maxillofacial or craniofacial surgery were included. Meta-analyses were performed using Comprehensive Meta-Analysis software v3.7, applying fixed- or random-effects models based on heterogeneity (I2 threshold of 25%). In total, 12 studies (three RCTs and nine cohort studies) were included in the meta-analysis. 3D-printed bone substitutes demonstrated significantly superior outcomes in key surgical metrics compared with traditional methods. Bone regeneration volume was markedly higher in the 3D group, with a standardized mean difference (SMD) of 0.737 (95% CI: 0.640-0.834; p<0.0001), indicating a moderate-to-large effect size. Operative efficiency also improved, with a mean reduction in surgical duration of -12.32min (95% CI: -14.08 to -10.56; p<0.0001). However, greater positional deviation was observed with 3D-printed plates, including distance deviation (MD=1.328; 95% CI: 1.08-1.57; p<0.0001) and angular deviation (MD=1.643°; 95% CI: 1.11-2.18; p<0.0001). 3D-printed bone substitutes significantly improve bone regeneration and reduce operative time in maxillofacial surgery. However, greater positional and angular deviations suggest the need for enhanced surgical navigation. These findings support the integration of 3D-printing in clinical practice, with emphasis on precision improvement in future applications.

Cocoa (Theobroma cacao L.) bean colour is a central quality attribute affecting chocolate appearance, consumer acceptance, and market value, yet the mechanistic basis of colour variation across genotypes and processing conditions remains poorly understood. While previous studies have explored fermentation and genotype effects separately, the integrated influence of chemical composition, anthocyanin content, and mineral profiles on cocoa bean pigmentation has not been systematically investigated. This study aimed to elucidate the relationships between cocoa bean colour, biochemical composition, and fermentation across 38 diverse genotypes, including germplasm accessions and cultivated varieties. Colour attributes were quantified using CIELAB parameters (L*, a*, b*, chroma, hue angle), biochemical properties were measured for fat, total phenolics, and essential minerals (phosphorus, sodium, iron, magnesium, calcium), and anthocyanins (cyanidin, delphinidin, pelargonidin, malvidin) were profiled in fermented samples via LCMS. Hierarchical clustering and correlation analyses were employed to link genotype-specific biochemical traits to colour outcomes. Results revealed significant genotype-dependent variation, with EQX78, ARF 22, and MO 20 exhibiting superior colour characteristics, while some genotypes displayed inherently dark brown beans. Germplasm accessions showed optimal colour properties, whereas cultivated varieties had enhanced biochemical content. Fermentation reduced L* and hue angle while increasing a*, b*, and chroma, corresponding to intensified reddish-brown pigmentation, and cyanidin and delphinidin were identified as key anthocyanins driving colour changes. Correlations indicated that fat and mineral contents significantly modulate colour expression, providing mechanistic insights into pigmentation dynamics. These findings highlight the multifactorial nature of cocoa bean colour and establish a foundation for breeding and post-harvest strategies to optimize visual and nutritional quality. Future studies integrating genomics and controlled fermentation are warranted to develop predictive models for cocoa bean colour and to enhance the quality and market value of chocolate products.

The rapid expansion of remote and hybrid work arrangements has significantly transformed organizational communication patterns and leadership dynamics. Digital communication technologies such as video conferencing platforms, instant messaging systems, and collaborative cloud-based tools have enabled organizations to coordinate activities across geographically dispersed locations. While these technologies provide flexibility and operational efficiency, they also alter the emotional and relational dynamics that traditionally underpin effective leadership.

Lipases have evolved from simple lipid-degrading enzymes into some of the most versatile biocatalysts known today. They not only hydrolyse fats at water-lipid interfaces but also catalyse a variety of reactions such as esterification, transesterification, and interesterification, in solvent-rich environments. This dual functionality has positioned lipases at the forefront of industrial biotechnology, where demand for sustainable, efficient, and selective catalysts continues to grow. Although lipases are found in plants, animals, and microorganisms, microbial lipases stand out for their broad substrate range and exceptional stability under diverse conditions, making them indispensable catalysts in industries spanning food, pharmaceuticals, detergents, and biofuels. Additionally, the rise of immobilization strategies has further increased their impact due to development of enzymes that are not only more robust but also have extended operational lifetimes, and lower process costs by enabling repeated use. This review provides an updated compilation of recent findings, highlighting promising lipase sources with substantial industrial potential and examining how advanced immobilization strategies facilitate their widespread application in various sectors.