The Effect of Femtosecond Laser Treatment on the Effectiveness of Resin-Zirconia Adhesive: An In Vitro Study

Introduction: When aesthetics is compromised, dental ceramics are excellent materials for dental restorations; owing to their optical properties and biocompatibility, zirconia ceramics are particularly interesting. Self-adhesive resin cements are the most suitable for bonding to zirconia ceramics, but traditional adhesive chemistry is ineffective and surface treatments are required to improve the adhesive bonding between resin and zirconia. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of femtosecond laser treatment on the shear bond strength (SBS) of self-adhesive resin cement on zirconia surfaces and to contrast it with other different surface conditioning methods. Methods: Sixty square-shaped zirconia samples were divided randomly into four groups (n = 15) according to their surface conditioning method: the NT group - no surface treatment; the APA25 group - airborne abrasion with 25 μm alumina particles; the TSC group - tribochemical silica coating, and the FS group - femtosecond laser irradiation (800 nm, 4 mJ, 40 fs/pulse, 1 kHz). Self-adhesive resin cements were bonded at the centre of samples, and after 72 hours, they were tested for SBS with a universal testing machine at a crosshead speed of 0.5 mm/min, until fracture. Five zirconia surfaces for each group were subjected to a surface morphology analysis by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The failure modes were noted and a third of the specimens were prepared to morphological analysis. Results: The NT group showed lower SBS values than the other groups. Femtosecond laser treatment demonstrated higher values than the control and APA25 groups and similar values to those of the TSC group. In the APA25 group, the surface conditioning method had values close to those of the TSC group, but lower than those obtained with femtosecond laser treatment. Conclusion: The treatment of zirconia with femtosecond laser irradiation created a consistent and profound surface roughness, improving the adhesive effectiveness of the zirconia-resin interface.

Effect of surface treatments on the mechanical properties and antimicrobial activity of desiccated glass ionomers

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of various surface treatments on the mechanical properties and antibacterial activity of desiccated glass-ionomer (GI) and resin-modified glass-ionomer (RMGI) materials.

METHODS

One hundred GI and RMGI specimens were fabricated in a mold, stored in 100% humidity for 24h, placed in air to desiccate for 24h, and then stored for one week in one of the five media [casein phosphopeptide-amorphous calcium phosphate (CPP-ACP), chlorhexidine (CHX), sodium fluoride (NaF), cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC), or 100% humidity (control)]. Fifty GI and RMGI specimens were tested in flexure to determine flexural strength and modulus, with the fragments used for Knoop hardness testing. The remaining 50 GI and RMGI specimens were covered with a suspension of Streptococcus mutans and incubated for 24h. The bacterial suspension was removed and the specimens were washed. Sterile saline was added, vortex mixed, serially diluted, and plated. CFU/mLs were calculated after 3days of incubation.

RESULTS

Compared to the 100% humidity control group, surface treatment of the desiccated GI and RMGI materials had a variable effect on the mechanical properties. In general, NaF provided the greatest improvement in flexural strength and modulus. Surface treatment of the desiccated GI or RMGI specimens with CHX or CPC resulted in no growth of the S. mutans. NaF resulted in significantly lower CFU/mL than CPP-ACP, which was significantly lower than the control group.

SIGNIFICANCE

Surface treatment with 5% NaF provides improved antimicrobial and strength properties of desiccated GI or RMGI materials.

Adhesion of living cells to abutment materials, dentin, and adhesive luting cement with different surface qualities

OBJECTIVE

We tested the adhesion properties of living gingival fibroblasts on three different implant abutment materials, adhesive resin used to bond bi-partite abutments, and human dentin.

METHODS

Discs of lithium disilicate (LS), zirconium dioxide (Zr), adhesive resin cement (AR), titanium (Ti), and human dentin (HD) were fabricated with three different levels of surface roughness (rough, machined, and polished). Ra and Rz, water contact angle, and cell detachment forces were measured. Cell detachment force was measured for single cells using single-cell force spectroscopy. Data were statistically analyzed using parametric tests (ANOVA, MANOVA, Bonferroni post-hoc tests).

RESULTS

Surface roughness significantly influenced the water contact angle for all materials (P≤0.05). Overall, HD showed the lowest contact angle, followed by LS, Ti, Zr, and AR (P≤0.05). Comparison of cell detachment forces between materials with rough and machined surfaces revealed no significant differences (P>0.05), with the exception of Zr compared to HD with rough surfaces (P=0.006). For polished surfaces, HD showed the highest detachment force (P≤0.0001), followed by Ti, AR, and Zr, which did not significantly differ from each other (P>0.05) and LS; Ti/AR was significantly different from LS (P≤0.05). Except for HD, where polished surfaces exhibited the highest cell detachment force (P≤0.002), most machined surfaces showed higher cell detachment forces than polished or rough surfaces.

SIGNIFICANCE

Implant abutments should ideally be provided with a machined like surface roughness for best cell adhesion.

Effect of surface treatments on shear bond strength of resin composite bonded to CAD/CAM resin-ceramic hybrid materials

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to assess the effect of surface treatments on shear bond strength of resin composite bonded to thermocycled and non-thermocycled CAD/CAM resin-ceramic hybrid materials.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

120 specimens (10×10×2 mm) from each material were divided into 12 groups according to different surface treatments in combination with thermal aging procedures. Surface treatment methods were airborne-particle abrasion (abraded with 50 micron alumina particles), dry grinding (grinded with 125 µm grain size bur), and hydrofluoric acid (9%) and silane application. According to the thermocycling procedure, the groups were assigned as non-thermocycled, thermocycled after packing composites, and thermocycled before packing composites. The average surface roughness of the non-thermocycled specimens were measured after surface treatments. After packing composites and thermocycling procedures, shear bond strength (SBS) of the specimens were tested. The results of surface roughness were statistically analyzed by 2-way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA), and SBS results were statistically analyzed by 3-way ANOVA.

RESULTS

Surface roughness of GC were significantly lower than that of LU and VE (P<.05). The highest surface roughness was observed for dry grinding group, followed by airborne particle abraded group (P<.05). Comparing the materials within the same surface treatment method revealed that untreated surfaces generally showed lower SBS values. The values of untreated LU specimens showed significantly different SBS values compared to those of other surface treatment groups (P<.05).

CONCLUSION

SBS was affected by surface treatments. Thermocycling did not have any effect on the SBS of the materials except acid and silane applied GC specimens, which were subjected to thermocycling before packing of the composite resin.

Microtensile bond strength and micromorphologic analysis of surface-treated resin nanoceramics

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of different surface treatment methods on the microtensile bond strength of resin cement to resin nanoceramic (RNC).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

RNC onlays (Lava Ultimate) (n=30) were treated using air abrasion with and without a universal adhesive, or HF etching followed by a universal adhesive with and without a silane coupling agent, or tribological silica coating with and without a universal adhesive, and divided into 6 groups. Onlays were luted with resin cement to dentin surfaces. A microtensile bond strength test was performed and evaluated by one-way ANOVA and Tukey HSD test (α=.05). A nanoscratch test, field emission scanning electron microscopy, and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy were used for micromorphologic analysis (α=.05). The roughness and elemental proportion were evaluated by Kruskal–Wallis test and Mann–Whitney U test.

RESULTS

Tribological silica coating showed the highest roughness, followed by air abrasion and HF etching. After HF etching, the RNC surface presented a decrease in oxygen, silicon, and zirconium ratio with increasing carbon ratio. Air abrasion with universal adhesive showed the highest bond strength followed by tribological silica coating with universal adhesive. HF etching with universal adhesive showed the lowest bond strength.

CONCLUSION

An improved understanding of the effect of surface treatment of RNC could enhance the durability of resin bonding when used for indirect restorations. When using RNC for restoration, effective and systemic surface roughening methods and an appropriate adhesive are required.

Microscopic Study of Surface Microtopographic Characteristics of Dental Implants

OBJECTIVE

To determine and compare the micro topographic characteristics of dental implants submitted to different surface treatments, using scanning electron microscopy (SEM).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Implants were divided into 7 groups of 3 specimens each, according to the surface treatment used: group 1: Osseotite, BIOMET 3i; group 2: SLA surface, Institut Straumann AG; group 3: Oxalife surface, Tree-Oss implant; group 4: B&W implant surface; group 5: Q-implant surface; group 6: ML implant surface; group 7: RBM surface, Rosterdent implant. The surfaces were examined under SEM (Carl Zeiss FE-SEM-SIGMA). Image Proplus software was used to determine the number and mean diameter of pores per area unit (mm). The data obtained were analyzed with the Mann-Whitney test. A confocal laser microscope (LEXT-OLS4100 Olympus) was used to conduct the comparative study of surface roughness (Ra). Data were analyzed using Tukey's HSD test.

RESULTS

The largest average pore diameter calculated in microns was found in group 5 (3.45 µm+/-1.91) while the smallest in group 7 (1.47µm+/-1.29). Significant differences were observed among each one of the groups studied (p<0.05). The largest number of pores/mm(2) was found in group 2 (229343) and the smallest number in group 4 (10937). Group 2 showed significant differences regarding the other groups (p<0.05). The greatest roughness (Ra) was observed in group 2 (0.975µm+/-0.115) and the smallest in group 4 (0.304µm+/-0.063). Group 2 was significantly different from the other groups (p<0.05).

CONCLUSION

The micro topography observed in the different groups presented dissimilar and specific features, depending on the chemical treatment used for the surfaces..

The effect of silane applied to glass ceramics on surface structure and bonding strength at different temperatures

PURPOSE

To evaluate the effect of various surface treatments on the surface structure and shear bond strength (SBS) of different ceramics.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

288 specimens (lithium-disilicate, leucite-reinforced, and glass infiltrated zirconia) were first divided into two groups according to the resin cement used, and were later divided into four groups according to the given surface treatments: G1 (hydrofluoric acid (HF)+silane), G2 (silane alone-no heat-treatment), G3 (silane alone-then dried with 60℃ heat-treatment), and G4 (silane alone-then dried with 100℃ heat-treatment). Two different adhesive luting systems were applied onto the ceramic discs in all groups. SBS (in MPa) was calculated from the failure load per bonded area (in N/mm²). Subsequently, one specimen from each group was prepared for SEM evaluation of the separated-resin–ceramic interface.

RESULTS

SBS values of G1 were significantly higher than those of the other groups in the lithium disilicate ceramic and leucite reinforced ceramic, and the SBS values of G4 and G1 were significantly higher than those of G2 and G3 in glass infiltrated zirconia. The three-way ANOVA revealed that the SBS values were significantly affected by the type of resin cement (P<.001). FIN ceramics had the highest rate of cohesive failure on the ceramic surfaces than other ceramic groups. AFM images showed that the surface treatment groups exhibited similar topographies, except the group treated with HF.

CONCLUSION

The heat treatment was not sufficient to achieve high SBS values as compared with HF acid etching. The surface topography of ceramics was affected by surface treatments.

Osseointegration of magnesium-incorporated sand-blasted acid-etched implant in the dog mandible: Resonance frequency measurements and histomorphometric analysis

The aim of this pilot study was to investigate the bone responses of novel magnesium (Mg)-incorporated sand-blasted and acid-etched (SLA) titanium (Ti) implant in an experimental animal model. Novel Mg-incorporated SLA Ti implant was obtained via vacuum arc source ion implantation method and Mg-ions were implanted into the SLA implant surface. Control group consisted of two commercial implants; resorbable blasting media (RBM) and SLA. Twelve implants from each group were placed into the mandibles of 6 mongrel dogs. Experimental animals were divided into 2 groups of 3 animals, with 4 weeks and 8 weeks healing time points. Resonance frequency analysis was performed at the time of fixture installation, 1, 2, 4, and 8 weeks after installation. Bone to implant contact (BIC) measurements were assessed at the 4 and 8 weeks healing time points. The overall implant survival rate was 97.2%. The Mg-incorporated SLA Ti implants showed more rapid osseointegration than control group implants at follow-up periods of 4 weeks. Histomorphometric analysis showed a tendency for BIC% values of Mg-incorporated SLA Ti implant to be higher than that of other the implant groups. The results of this study suggest that Mg-incorporated SLA Ti implant may be effective in enhancing the bone responses by rapid osseointegration in early healing periods.

Plasma Decontamination: A Case Study on Kill Efficacy of Geobacillus stearothermophilus Spores on Different Carrier Materials

A new technology to the pharmaceutical field is presented: surface decontamination by plasmas The technology is comparable to established barrier systems like e-beam, volatile hydrogen peroxide, or radiation inactivation of microbiological contaminations. This plasma technology is part of a fully automated and validated syringe filling line at a major pharmaceutical company and is in production operation. Incoming pre-sterilized syringe containers ("tubs") are processed by plasma, solely on the outside, and passed into the aseptic filling isolator upon successful decontamination. The objective of this article is to present the operating principles and develop and establish a validation routine on the basis of standard commercial biological indicators. Their decontamination efficacies are determined and correlated to the actual inactivation efficacy on the pharmaceutical packaging material.The reference setup is explained in detail and a short presentation of the cycle development and the relevant plasma control parameters is given, with a special focus on the in-process monitor determining the cycle validity. Different microbial inactivation mechanisms are also discussed and evaluated for their contribution and interaction to enhance plasma decontamination. A material-dependent inactivation behavior was observed. In order to be able to correlate the tub surface inactivation of Geobacillus stearothermophilus endospores to metallic biological indicators, a comparative study was performed. Through consistently demonstrating the linear inactivation behavior between the different materials, it becomes possible to develop an effective and time-saving validation scheme.

LAY ABSTRACT

The challenge in new decontamination systems lies in a thorough validation of the inactivation efficacy under different operating regimes. With plasma, as an ionized gas, a new barrier concept is introduced into pharmaceutical aseptic processing of syringes. The presented system operates in vacuum and only decontaminates the outer surface of pre-sterilized syringe containers ("tubs"), before they are transferred into the aseptic area. The plasma does not penetrate into the tub. This article discusses the phase from development and test germ selection, across the identified sporicidal mechanisms, to a proposal for a validation scheme on the basis of commercially available biological indicators. A special focus is placed on an extensive investigation to establish a link between the tub surface microbial kill (polystyrene and Tyvek(and (2)) ) and biological indicator inactivation (stainless steel). Additionally, a rationale is developed on how an optical in-process monitor can be applied to establish a validatable limit on the base of the predetermined inactivation data of Geobacillus stearothermophilus endospores.

Ultrasonic approach for surface nanostructuring

The review is about solid surface modifications by cavitation induced in strong ultrasonic fields. The topic is worth to be discussed in a special issue of surface cleaning by cavitation induced processes since it is important question if we always find surface cleaning when surface modifications occur, or vice versa. While these aspects are extremely interesting it is important for applications to follow possible pathways during ultrasonic treatment of the surface: (i) solely cleaning; (ii) cleaning with following surface nanostructuring; and (iii) topic of this particular review, surface modification with controllably changing its characteristics for advanced applications. It is important to know what can happen and which parameters should be taking into account in the case of surface modification when actually the aim is solely cleaning or aim is surface nanostructuring. Nanostructuring should be taking into account since is often accidentally applied in cleaning. Surface hydrophilicity, stability to Red/Ox reactions, adhesion of surface layers to substrate, stiffness and melting temperature are important to predict the ultrasonic influence on a surface and discussed from these points for various materials and intermetallics, silicon, hybrid materials. Important solid surface characteristics which determine resistivity and kinetics of surface response to ultrasonic treatment are discussed. It is also discussed treatment in different solvents and presents in solution of metal ions.

Surface treatment influences electrochemical stability of cpTi exposed to mouthwashes

The role of surface treatment on the electrochemical behavior of commercially pure titanium (cpTi) exposed to mouthwashes was tested. Seventy-five disks were divided into 15 groups according to surface treatment (machined, sand blasted with Al2O3, and acid etched) and electrolyte solution (artificial saliva — control, 0.12% chlorhexidine digluconate, 0.05% cetylpyridinium chloride, 0.2% sodium fluoride, and 1.5% hydrogen peroxide) (n = 5). Open-circuit-potential and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy were conducted at baseline and after 7 and 14 days of immersion in each solution. Potentiodynamic test and total weight loss of disks were performed after 14 days of immersion. Scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive spectroscopy, white light interferometry and profilometry were conducted for surface characterization before and after the electrochemical tests. Sandblasting promoted the lowest polarization resistance (Rp) (P b .0001) and the highest capacitance (CPE) (P b .006), corrosion current density (Icorr) and corrosion rate (P b .0001). In contrast, acid etching increased Rp and reduced CPE, independent to the mouthwash; while hydrogen peroxide reduced Rp (P b .008) and increased Icorr and corrosion rate (P b .0001). The highest CPE values were found for hydrogen peroxide and 0.2% sodium fluoride. Immersion for longer period improved the electrochemical stability of cpTi (P b .05). In conclusion, acid etching enhanced the electrochemical stability of cpTi. Hydrogen peroxide and sodium fluoride reduced the resistance to corrosion of cpTi, independent to the surface treatment. Chlorhexidine gluconate and cetylpyridinium chloride did not alter the corrosive behavior of cpTi.

Effect of surface treatments on the bond strength between resin cement and differently sintered zirconium-oxide ceramics

PURPOSE

This study investigated the effects of surface treatments on bond strength between resin cement and differently sintered zirconium-oxide ceramics.

METHODS

220 zirconium-oxide ceramic (Ceramill ZI) specimens were prepared, sintered in two different period (Short=Ss, Long=Ls) and divided into ten treatment groups as: GC, no treatment; GSil, silanized (ESPE-Sil); GSilPen, silane flame treatment (Silano-Pen); GSb, sandblasted; GSbSil, sandblasted+silanized; GSbCoSil, sandblasted+silica coated (CoJet)+silanized; GSbRoSil, sandblasted+silica coated (Rocatech-Plus)+silanized; GSbDSil, sandblasted+diamond particle abraded (Micron MDA)+silanized; GSbSilPen, sandblasted+silane flame treatment+silanized; GSbLSil, sandblasted+Er:Yag (Asclepion-MCL30) laser treated+silanized. The composite resin (Filtek Z-250) cylinders were cemented to the treated ceramic surfaces with a resin cement (Panavia F2.0). Shear bond strength test was performed after specimens were stored in water for 24h and thermo-cycled for 6000 cycles (5-55 °C). Data were statistically analyzed with two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tamhane's multiple comparison test (α=0.05).

RESULTS

According to the ANOVA, sintering time, surface treatments and their interaction were statistically significant (p<0.05). The highest bond strengths were obtained in GSbCoSil (Ss=13.36/Ls=11.19MPa) and lowest values were obtained in GC (Ss=4.70/Ls=4.62 MPa) for both sinter groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Sintering time may be effective on the bond strength and 30 μm silica coating (Cojet) with silane coupling application technique increased the bond strength between resin cement and differently sintered zirconium-oxide ceramics.

Influence of Surface Modifications of Acrylic Resin Teeth on Shear Bond Strength with Denture Base Resin-An Invitro Study

BACKGROUND

Debonding of artificial teeth from the denture base is an important issue for edentulous patients rehabilitated with conventional or implant supported complete dentures.

AIM

The purpose of this study was to evaluate shear bond strength between denture base resin and acrylic resin denture teeth subjected to three different surface modifications on the ridge lap area as compared to unmodified denture teeth.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Forty acrylic resin central incisor denture teeth were selected and randomly divided into four test groups. The teeth in each group were subjected to one of the three different surface modifications, namely, chemical treatment, sandblasting and placement of retentive grooves on the ridge lap area respectively, prior to packing of the denture base resin. The group with unmodified teeth served as control. Forty acrylic resin test blocks thus obtained were tested for shear bond strength between acrylic resin teeth and denture base resin in Universal Testing Machine. Data obtained was statistically analysed using one-way ANOVA and Student- Newman- Keul's test (p< 0.05).

RESULTS

Analysis of shear bond strength revealed that retentive grooves on the ridge lap area showed highest bond strength values followed by sandblasting and both were statistically significant compared to the control and chemically treated groups. Unmodified surface of the resin teeth showed the least bond strength.

CONCLUSION

Within the limitations of this invitro study the placement of retentive grooves or sandblasting of the ridge lap area showed highly significant improvement in shear bond strength compared to the unmodified surface. Chemical treatment did not result in any significant improvement in the shear bond strength compared to the unmodified surface.

Effect of Chlorhexidine and Ethanol Application on Long-term Push-out Bond Strength of Fiber Posts to Dentin

AIM

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of chlorhexidine and ethanol application on the push-out bond strength and bond durability of fiber posts cemented with an etch-and-rinse adhesive system/resin cement to intraradicular dentin.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Fifty-four bovine roots were shaped for the cementation of a fiberglass post and received the application of 37% phosphoric acid. They were then randomly divided into three groups, according to the type of dentin treatment (n = 18) performed: no treatment (control group), 100% ethanol, or 2% chlorhexidine. Next, the adhesive system (Adper Scotch Bond Multipurpose Plus, 3M ESPE) was applied to the dentin, according to the manufacturer's instructions. Glass fiber posts were cemented with dual resin cement (Rely X ARC, 3M ESPE). After 48 hours, the specimens were serially sectioned for push-out test analysis, providing two slices from each root third (cervical, medium and apical), one of which was tested immediately and the other stored in distilled water for 180 days. The data were analyzed with three-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) for repeated measures and Tukey's test at a 5% significance level.

RESULTS

Intraradicular treatment with chlorhexidine yielded the highest bond strength means, followed by ethanol treatment. The control group presented the lowest bond strength means. Water storage exerted no effect on bond strength values.

CONCLUSION

Both chlorhexidine and ethanol improved push-out bond strength to intraradicular dentin, with the former providing the best results, regardless of the storage time.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

The application of 2% chlorhexidine or 100% ethanol may be an important step that can be taken to enhance bond strength of fiber posts to intraradicular dentin, when dual resin cements are used.

Wettability influence on the onset temperature of pool boiling: Experimental evidence onto ultra-smooth surfaces

In this article we study systematically the effect of wettability on the onset of boiling on the same nanometrically smooth surface. By grafting different monolayers of molecules, we were able to explore the wettability from the equilibrium static contact angle, θ0=0° to θ0=110°, without changing the surface topography. The superheat temperature at the onset of pool boiling was measured and eventually a non-classical trend of TONB as a function of wettability was observed. The nucleation site densities for the different grafting cases were also measured by image analysis. Moreover, we propose a novel theoretical interpretation to this phenomenon linking nucleation and the molecular diffusion coefficient. MD simulation results support this approach.

Effect of atmospheric plasma versus conventional surface treatments on the adhesion capability between self-adhesive resin cement and titanium surface

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of atmospheric plasma (APL) versus conventional surface treatments on the adhesion of self-adhesive resin cement to Ti-6Al-4V alloy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Sixty plates of machined titanium (Ti) discs were divided into five groups (n=12): 1) Untreated (CNT); 2) Sandblasted (SAB); 3) Tribochemically treated (ROC); 4) Tungsten CarbideBur (TCB); 5) APL treated (APL). SEM analysis and surface roughness (Ra) measurements were performed. Self-adhesive resin cement was bonded to the Ti surfaces and shear bond strength (SBS) tests, Ra and failure mode examinations were carried out. Data were analyzed by one-way analysis of variance and chi-squared test.

RESULTS

The lowest SBS value was obtained with CNT and was significantly different from all other groups except for APL. The ROC showed the highest SBS and Ra values of all the groups.

CONCLUSION

It was concluded that the effect of APL on SBS and Ra was not sufficient and it may not be a potential for promoting adhesion to titanium.

Effect of femtosecond laser beam angle on bond strength of zirconia-resin cement

Yttrium-stabilized tetragonal zirconia polycrystalline (Y-TZP) ceramic is widely used as an all-ceramic core material because of its enhanced mechanical and aesthetic properties. The bond strength of Y-TZP restorations affects long-term success; hence, surface treatment is required on ceramic boundaries. This study evaluated the effect of different laser beam angles on Y-TZP-resin cement shear bond strength (SBS). Forty plates of Y-TZP ceramics were randomly assigned to four groups (n = 10). A femtosecond amplifier laser pulse was applied on Y-TZP surface with different incidence angles (90°, 75°, 60°, 45°). The resin cement was adhered onto the zirconia surfaces. The SBS of each sample was measured using universal testing machine at crosshead speed of 1 mm/min. The SBS was analyzed through one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA)/Tukey tests. The results showed that the degree of laser beam angle affects the SBS of resin cement to Y-TZP. The laser beam was applied to a surface with a 45° angle which resulted in significantly higher SBS (18.2 ± 1.43 MPa) than other groups (at 90° angulation (10.79 ± 1.8 MPa), at 75° (13.48 ± 1.2 MPa) and at 60° (15.85 ± 0.81 MPa); p < 0.001). This study shows that decreasing of the angle between the ceramic surface and the laser beam increased the SBS between the resin cement and the ceramic material, as well as the orifice.

Influence of Different Power Outputs of Er:YAG Laser on Shear Bond Strength of a Resin Composite to Feldspathic Porcelain

STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM

Porcelain may fracture or chip if exposed to any traumas and can be repaired by using a resin composite.

PURPOSE

This study was aimed to evaluate the influences of Er:YAG laser on shear bond strength (SBS) of resin composite to feldspathic porcelain.

MATERIALS AND METHOD

Seventy-two porcelain blocks were divided into six groups (n=12): G1: no treatment (control group); G2: 9% hydrofluoric acid (HF); G3-6 were separately irradiated with Er:YAG laser using four energy parameters: 2W, 100mj (G3); 3W, 150mj (G4); 4W, 200mj (G5) and 5W, 250mj (G6), respectively; and 20 Hz frequency in long-pulse mode. After silane treatment, a resin composite rod was bonded to each of the porcelain block. The SBS was measured following storage and thermocycling. Data were analyzed by one-way ANOVA, Tamhane and Chi-Square tests.

RESULTS

The highest SBS (12.29±3.04 MPa) was obtained with HF (G2). The lowest SBS (2.23±0.60 MPa) was observed in G4, followed by G3 (1.96±0.76 MPa). G6 had a significantly higher SBS (8.00±2.22 MPa) than other laser irradiation groups.

CONCLUSION

Although, Er:YAG laser irradiation at 5W, 250mJ/20 Hz was effective in promoting adhesion of resin composite to feldspathic porcelain compared with the control group, it cannot be used as a safe alternative method to HF acid. Laser irradiation with the evaluated parameters in this study does not promote an effective adhesion on porcelain surface to create adequate bond for clinical use.

Surface characterization and cytotoxicity response of biodegradable magnesium alloys

Magnesium alloys have raised an immense amount of interest to many researchers because of their evolution as a new kind of third generation materials. Due to their biocompatibility, density, and mechanical properties, magnesium alloys are frequently reported as prospective biodegradable implant materials. Moreover, magnesium alloys experience a natural phenomenon to biodegrade in aqueous solutions due to its corrosion activity, which is excellent for orthopedic and cardiovascular applications. However, a major concern with such alloys is fast and non-uniform corrosion degradation. Controlling the degradation rate in the physiological environment determines the success of biodegradable implants. In this investigation, three different grades of magnesium alloys: AZ31B, AZ91E and ZK60A were studied for their corrosion resistance and biocompatibility. Scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy and contact angle meter are used to study surface morphology, chemistry, roughness and wettability, respectively. Additionally, the cytotoxicity of the leached metal ions was evaluated by using a tetrazolium based bio-assay, MTS.

Calcium carbonate precipitation by strain Bacillus licheniformis AK01, newly isolated from loamy soil: a promising alternative for sealing cement-based materials

The relevant experiments were designed to determine the ability of indigenous bacterial strains isolated from limestone caves, mineral springs, and loamy soils to induce calcium carbonate precipitation. Among all isolates examined in this study, an efficient carbonate-precipitating soil bacterium was selected from among the isolates and identified by 16S rRNA gene sequences as Bacillus licheniformis AK01. The ureolytic isolate was able to grow well on alkaline carbonate-precipitation medium and precipitate calcium carbonate more than 1 g L(-1). Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD) analyses, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM)/energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) examinations were performed in order to confirm the presence of calcium carbonate in the precipitate and to determine which polymorphs were present. The selected isolate was determined to be an appropriate candidate for application in a surface treatment of cement-based material to improve the properties of the mortar. Biodeposition of a layer of calcite on the surface of cement specimens resulted in filling in pore spaces. This could be an alternative method to improve the durability of the mortar. The kind of bacterial culture and medium composition had a profound impact on the resultant CaCO(3) crystal morphology.

Effect of antioxidants on push-out bond strength of hydrogen peroxide treated glass fiber posts bonded with two types of resin cement

Objectives

Hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) surface treatment of fiber posts has been reported to increase bond strength of fiber posts to resin cements. However, residual oxygen radicals might jeopardize the bonding procedure. This study examined the effect of three antioxidant agents on the bond strength of fiber posts to conventional and self-adhesive resin cements.

Materials and Methods

Post spaces were prepared in forty human maxillary second premolars. Posts were divided into five groups of 8 each: G1 (control), no pre-treatment; G2, 10% H₂O₂ pre-treatment; G3, G4 and G5. After H₂O₂ application, Hesperidin (HES), Sodium Ascorbate (SA) or Rosmarinic acid (RA) was applied on each group respectively. In each group four posts were cemented with Duo-Link conventional resin cement and the others with self-adhesive BisCem cement. Push-out test was performed and data were analyzed using 2-way ANOVA and tukey's post-hoc test (α = 0.05).

Results

There was a statistically significant interaction between the cement type and post surface treatment on push-out bond strength of fiber posts (p < 0.001, F = 16). Also it was shown that different posts' surface treatments significantly affect the push-out bond strength of fiber posts (p = 0.001). H₂O₂ treated posts (G2) and control posts (G1) cemented with Duo-link showed the highest (15.96 ± 5.07MPa) and lowest bond strengths (6.79 ± 3.94) respectively.

Conclusions

It was concluded that H₂O₂ surface treatment might enhance the bond strength of fiber posts cemented with conventional resin cements. The effect of antioxidants as post's surface treatment agents depends on the characteristics of resin cements used for bonding procedure.

Surface treatment of feldspathic porcelain: scanning electron microscopy analysis

PURPOSE

Topographic analysis of treated ceramics provides qualitative information regarding the surface texture affecting the micromechanical retention and locking of resin-ceramics. This study aims to compare the surface microstructure following different surface treatments of feldspathic porcelain.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This in-vitro study was conducted on 72 porcelain discs randomly divided into 12 groups (n=6). In 9 groups, feldspathic surfaces were subjected to sandblasting at 2, 3 or 4 bar pressure for 5, 10 or 15 seconds with 50 µm alumina particles at a 5 mm distance. In group 10, 9.5% hydrofluoric acid (HF) gel was applied for 120 seconds. In group 11, specimens were sandblasted at 3 bar pressure for 10 seconds and then conditioned with HF. In group 12, specimens were first treated with HF and then sandblasted at 3 bar pressure for 10 seconds. All specimens were then evaluated under scanning electron microscopy (SEM) at different magnifications.

RESULTS

SEM images of HF treated specimens revealed deep porosities of variable sizes; whereas, the sandblasted surfaces were more homogenous and had sharper peaks. Increasing the pressure and duration of sandblasting increased the surface roughness. SEM images of the two combined techniques showed that in group 11 (sandblasted first), HF caused deeper porosities; whereas in group 12 (treated with HF first) sandblasting caused irregularities with less homogeneity.

CONCLUSION

All surface treatments increased the surface area and caused porous surfaces. In groups subjected to HF, the porosities were deeper than those in sandblasted only groups.

A novel effect of parylene-based surface coating on HepG2 cell function

Parylene-C (diX C) has been used as a surface coating material with many biological applications; diX AM, a member of the diX C parylene family, retains biocompatible features. Previously, it has been reported that diX AM shows high cell adhesiveness; however, the effect of diX AM on the function of cells remains unknown. In this study, we investigated cell morphology and gene expression in human hepatocellular carcinoma (HepG2) cells cultured on diX AM. Our results show that HepG2 cells adhered to the surface of diX AM, and retained morphology similar to that of the cells cultured on collagen-coated surfaces. Furthermore, microarray analysis has revealed that the expression of CYP1A1 and CYP1A2 was highly induced in HepG2 cells cultured on diX AM without any additional factors. Moreover, CYP1 enzymatic activity measured by ethoxyresorufin-O-dealkylase (EROD) assay corresponded with the induction of gene expression. These results indicate a novel effect of diX AM on HepG2 cell function for the first time and diX AM could be used as non-animal-derived material for cell culture.

Evaluation of bone response to synthetic bone grafting material treated with argon-based atmospheric pressure plasma

Bone graft materials are utilized to stimulate healing of bone defects or enhance osseointegration of implants. In order to augment these capabilities, various surface modification techniques, including atmospheric pressure plasma (APP) surface treatment, have been developed. This in vivo study sought to assess the effect of APP surface treatment on degradation and osseointegration of Synthograft™, a beta-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) synthetic bone graft. The experimental (APP-treated) grafts were subjected to APP treatment with argon for a period of 60s. Physicochemical characterization was performed by environmental scanning electron microscopy, surface energy (SE), and x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analyses both before and after APP treatment. Two APP-treated and two untreated grafts were surgically implanted into four critical-size calvarial defects in each of ten New Zealand white rabbits. The defect samples were explanted after four weeks, underwent histological analysis, and the percentages of bone, soft tissue, and remaining graft material were quantified by image thresholding. Material characterization showed no differences in particle surface morphology and that the APP-treated group presented significantly higher SE along with higher amounts of the base material chemical elements on it surface. Review of defect composition showed that APP treatment did not increase bone formation or reduce the amount of soft tissue filling the defect when compared to untreated material. Histologic cross-sections demonstrated osteoblastic cell lines, osteoid deposition, and neovascularization in both groups. Ultimately, argon-based APP treatment did not enhance the osseointegration or degradation of the β-TCP graft. Future investigations should evaluate the utility of gases other than argon to enhance osseointegration through APP treatment.

Enhanced compatibility and initial stability of Ti6Al4V alloy orthodontic miniscrews subjected to anodization, cyclic precalcification, and heat treatment

Objective

To evaluate the bioactivity, and the biomechanical and bone-regenerative properties of Ti6Al4V miniscrews subjected to anodization, cyclic precalcification, and heat treatment (APH treatment) and their potential clinical use.

Methods

The surfaces of Ti6Al4V alloys were modified by APH treatment. Bioactivity was assessed after immersion in simulated body fluid for 3 days. The hydrophilicity and the roughness of APH-treated surfaces were compared with those of untreated (UT) and anodized and heat-treated (AH) samples. For in vivo tests, 32 miniscrews (16 UT and 16 APH) were inserted into 16 Wistar rats, one UT and one APH-treated miniscrew in either tibia. The miniscrews were extracted after 3 and 6 weeks and their osseointegration (n = 8 for each time point and group) was investigated by surface and histological analyses and removal torque measurements.

Results

APH treatment formed a dense surface array of nanotubular TiO2 layer covered with a compact apatite-like film. APH-treated samples showed better bioactivity and biocompatibility compared with UT and AH samples. In vivo, APH-treated miniscrews showed higher removal torque and bone-to-implant contact than did UT miniscrews, after both 3 and 6 weeks (p < 0.05). Also, early deposition of densely mineralized bone around APH-treated miniscrews was observed, implying good bonding to the treated surface.

Conclusions

APH treatment enhanced the bioactivity, and the biomechanical and bone regenerative properties of the Ti6Al4V alloy miniscrews. The enhanced initial stability afforded should be valuable in orthodontic applications.