Effects of LED Lights on Bulk Fill Resin Polymerization

The present study analyzed the microhardness and degree of conversion of three Bulk Fill resins (M1 - Filtek Bulk Fill; M2 - Tetric N-Ceram Bulk Fill and M3 - Opus Bulk Fill) polymerized by single peak and polywave Light-emitting Diode Curing Lights. A total 90 test specimens (n=10) were obtained using a Teflon matrix for the purpose of testing microhardness; and for degree of conversion: 135 specimens (n=5) by using a 2 x 6 cm matrix. The specimens were light polymerized using 3 light sources (L1 - Optilight Max, L2 - Bluephase, L3 - VALO). They were kept in artificial saliva om an oven at 37±1°C during the experiment. The degree of conversion was measured by FTIR 24 h after obtaining each test specimen. The microhardness readouts were performed with a microdurometer at the time intervals of 48 hours (T0), 7 days (T1), 14 days (T2) and 21 days (T3). M1L3 was found to show the highest microhardness values in T2, and M1 showed the lowest degree of conversion in the deep third with L1. It was concluded that Filtek Bulk Fill resin showed the best results in comparison with the other resins.

El presente estudio analizó la microdureza y el grado de conversión de tres resinas Bulk Fill (M1 - Filtek Bulk Fill; M2 - Tetric N-Ceram Bulk Fill y M3 - Opus Bulk Fill) polimerizadas por lámparas de curado de diodo emisor de luz de pico único y polionda. Se obtuvieron un total de 90 especímenes de prueba (n=10) utilizando una matriz de teflón con el propósito de probar la microdureza; y para grado de conversión: 135 especímenes (n=5) utilizando una matriz de 2 x 6 cm. Las muestras se fotopolimerizaron utilizando 3 fuen- tes de luz (L1 - Optilight Max, L2 - Bluephase, L3 - VALO). Se mantuvieron en saliva artificial en estufa a 37 ±1°C durante el experimento. El grado de conversión se midió por FTIR 24 h después de obtener cada muestra de prueba. Las lecturas de microdureza se realizaron con un microdurómetro en los intervalos de tiempo de 48 horas (T0), 7 días (T1), 14 días (T2) y 21 días (T3). Se encontró que M1L3 mostraba los valores más altos de microdureza en T2, y M1 mostraba el grado más bajo de conversión en el tercio profundo con L1. Se concluyó que la resina Filtek Bulk Fill mostró los mejores resultados en comparación con las demás resinas.

Efecto de los antibióticos pediátricos sobre la microdureza superficial del esmalte dental en dientes bovinos

Objetivo: Comparar el efecto de antibióticos pediátricos sobre la microdureza superficial del esmalte dental en dientes bovinos. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio in vitro en 60 dientes bovinos no cariados. Se sumergieron 15 dientes en cada grupo de cuatro soluciones (amoxicilina, amoxicilina + ácido clavulánico, eritromicina y saliva artificial) durante 1 minuto tres veces al día durante 7 y 14 días. Se midió la microdureza de la superficie del esmalte al inicio, a los7 y 14 días de exposición a los antibióticos. Resultados: La microdureza superficial del esmalte de los dientes de los grupos de antibióticos pediátricos se redujo después de 7 y 14 días de exposición con diferencia significativa (p < 0,001), respecto a la microdureza inicial. Además, en el grupo expuesto a saliva artificial no hubo diferencia significativa (p = 0,097) en los diferentes tiempos de evaluación. Conclusiones: Se concluye que los antibióticos pediátricos afectan la microdureza del esmalte, siendo la eritromicina la que mayor disminución generó a los 14 días de exposición.

Objective: To compare the effect of pediatric antibiotics on the superficial microhardness of dental enamel in bovine teeth. Methods: An in vitro study was carried out on 60 non carious bovine teeth. Fifteen teeth were immersed in each group of four solutions (amoxicillin, amoxicillin + clavulanic acid, erythromycin and artificial saliva) for 1 minute three times a day for 7 and 14 days. Enamel surface microhardness was measured at baseline, 7 and 14 days of antibiotic exposure. Results: The enamel surface microhardness of the teeth of the pediatric antibiotic groups was reduced after seven and 14 days of exposure with significant difference (p < 0.001), with respect to the initial microhardness. In addition, in the group exposed to artificial saliva there was no significant difference (p = 0.097) at the different evaluation times. Conclusions: It is concluded that pediatric antibiotics affect enamel microhardness and erythromycin generated the greatest decrease at 14 days of exposure.

Analysis of the distribution of microhardness, mineral, and organic content of human, bovine, and ovine teeth / Análisis de la distribución de microdureza, contenido mineral y orgánico de dientes humanos, bovinos y ovinos

Objetive. Human teeth have been commonly used for in vitro and in situ studies. Cu­rrently, other animals' teeth have been purposed for dental research to overcome human teeth' problematic availability. This study aimed to investigate the enamel and dentin from human, bovine, and ovine teeth concerning the microhardness, organic, and in­ organic contents via micro­Raman spectroscopy. Methods. Human, bovine, and ovine teeth were divided according to their type and age into seven groups: Ovine; Bovine­12 months; Bovine­24 months; Bovine­36 months; Bovine­48 months; Bovine­+60 months; Human (control). The enamel's microhardness (superficial and deep) and den­tin (superficial, middle, and deep) were analyzed. The calcium/phosphate ratio and am­ide contents were determined by micro­Raman spectroscopy. Results. Overall, the mi­crohardness of human enamel was superior to the other species. Dentin's microhardness was similar among groups. Ovine group showed lower values of calcium/phosphate ratio than human. Amide content was similar between bovine and human. The microhardness and calcium/phosphate ratio of enamel and dentin, respectively, decreased as the age of bovine teeth increased. Conclusions. Researchers must be aware and take into consider­ation the differences of ovine and bovine enamel compared to human enamel. Other al­ternatives that are more similar to the microhardness of human enamel should be sought. Bovine teeth of 12 and 24 months are suitable substitutes for dentin of human teeth. Researchers must also be aware of the age of the animals and specify it in the studies.

Objetivo. Los dientes humanos se han utilizado comúnmente para estudios in vitro e in situ. Actualmente, los dientes de otros animales se han destinado a la investiga­ción dental para superar la disponibilidad problemática de los dientes humanos. Este estudio tuvo como objetivo investigar el esmalte y la dentina de los dientes humanos, bovinos y ovinos en relación con la microdureza y los contenidos orgánicos e inor­gánicos a través de la espectroscopia micro­Raman. Métodos. Los dientes humanos, bovinos y ovinos se dividieron según su tipo y edad en siete grupos: Ovinos; Bovino­12 meses; Bovino­24 meses; Bovino­36 meses; Bovino­48 meses; Bovino­+60 meses; Hu­mano (control). Se analizó la microdureza del esmalte (superficial y profunda) y de la dentina (superficial, media y profunda). La relación calcio/fosfato y los contenidos de amida se determinaron mediante espectroscopía micro­Raman. Resultados. En general, la microdureza del esmalte humano fue superior a la de otras especies. La microdureza de la dentina fue similar entre los grupos. El grupo ovino mostró valores más bajos de la relación calcio/fosfato que el humano. El contenido de amida fue similar entre bovinos y humanos. La microdureza y la relación calcio/fosfato del esmalte y la dentina, respectiva­mente, disminuyeron a medida que aumentaba la edad de los dientes bovinos. Conclusiones. El esmalte de los dientes ovinos y bovinos no es un sustituto adecuado del de los dientes humanos. Se deben buscar otras alternativas que sean similares a la microdureza del esmalte humano. Sin embargo, los dientes bovinos de 12 y 24 meses son sustitutos adecuados de la dentina de los dientes humanos. Los investigadores deben conocer la edad de los animales y especificarla en los estudios.

Análisis In vitro de yesos dentales de alta resistencia y baja expansión disponibles en Perú / In vitro analysis of high resistance and low expansion dental plasters available in Peru

Objetivo. Comparar la dureza, estabilidad dimensional y resistencia a la compresión de los yesos dentales de alta resistencia y baja expansión disponibles en el Perú. Métodos. Se realizó un estudio descriptivo, observacional y transversal. Se confeccionaron muestras de forma cilíndrica (8) y rectangular (8), de siete yesos dentales de alta resistencia y baja expansión. Se evaluó la dureza utilizando el Durómetro Universal Identec, la estabilidad dimensional con un calibrador digital y la resistencia a compresión con la Máquina de Ensayo Universal. Para determinar si hay diferencia en cada una de estas propiedades se empleó el análisis de varianza, la prueba F y la prueba de Duncan. Además, se empleó la prueba de comparación de medias, t de Student, para evaluar si difieren con los valores de la ADA (Asociación Dental Americana). Resultados. La dureza, estabilidad dimen-sional y resistencia a la compresión promedio de los yesos dentales presentó diferencias significativas (p<0.05) entre cada uno con los promedios estándares establecidos por la ADA. Conclusiones. En relación resistencia a la compresión el 100% de los yesos analizados cumplen con los parámetros establecidos por la ADA, en relación estabilidad dimensional solo el 28.6% y el 100% no alcanzan los estándares de dureza promedio establecidos por la ADA.

Objective. To compare the hardness, dimensional stability, and compressive strength of high-strength, low-expansion dental plasters available in Peru, according to ADA criteria. Methods. A descriptive, observational and cross-sectional study was developed. A selection of 8 cylindrical-shaped samples and 8 rectangular- shaped ones, from seven high-resistance, low-expansion dental plasters were fabricated. The hardness was evaluated using the Identec Universal Durometer. Dimensional stability was evaluated with a digital caliper and compressive strength was evaluated with the Instron Universal Testing Machine. To determine if there is a difference in each of these properties, the analysis of variance, F test, and the Duncan's test were used. In addition, to assess whether these values differ from those of the ADA, the mean comparison test, student's t table, were used. Results. The hardness, dimensional stability and average compressive strength of the high-strength, low-expansion dental plasters showed that there are significant di-fferences (p<0.05) between each of the dental plasters and with the standard averages established by the American Dental Association. (ADA). Conclusions. 100% of the high-strength, low-expansion dental casts meet the parameters established by the ADA in terms of their compressive strength, only 28.6% of these comply with the ADA in terms of dimensional stability and that 100% of these do not meet the average hardness standards established by the ADA.

Ozone gas therapy for tooth bleaching preserves enamel microhardness, roughness and surface micromorphology / Ozonioterapia gasosa para clareamento dental preserva a microdureza, rugosidade e micromorfologia superficial do esmalte

ABSTRACT After ozone therapy for bleaching, it is important to evalúate enamel surface properties, to ensure that bleaching provides adequate conditions for sound dental substrate. Aim: The aim of this in vitro study was to evaluate the effects of a bleaching treatment with 10% carbamide peroxide (CP), with or without ozone (O), on the microhardness, roughness and micromorphology of the enamel surface. Materials and Method: Bovine enamel blocks were planed and distributed among the following three bleaching treatment groups (n=10): CP - 1 hour per day/14 days (Opalescence PF 10%/ Ultradent); O - 1 hour per day every 3 days/3 sessions (Medplus VPhilozon, 60 mcg/mL and oxygen flow rate of 1 L/min); and OCP - CP with O, 1 hour per day every 3 days/3 sessions. Enamel surface microhardness (Knoop), roughness (Ra), and micromorphology by scanning electron microscopy (5,000x magnificaron) were determined before and after the treatments. Results: ANOVA and Tukey-Kramer's test showed that enamel microhardness remained unchanged by treatment with O and OCP (p=0.0087), but decreased by treatment with CP. Treatment with O promoted higher enamel microhardness than the other groups (p=0.0169). Generalized linear mixed models for repeated measures over time indicated treatment with CP increased enamel roughness more than OCP or O (p=0.0003). CP produced slight irregularities in enamel micromorphology after the whitening treatment. O, with or without CP, maintained the mechanical and physical properties of microhardness and enamel surface micromorphology, and either maintained or reduced surface roughness, compared to the conventional tray-delivered CP bleaching treatment. Conclusions: Treatment with 10% carbamide peroxide in trays promoted greater changes in enamel surface properties than treatments with ozone and with 10% ozonized carbamide peroxide in the office.

RESUMO É importante avaliar as propriedades da superficie do esmalte após a aplicagao da ozonioterapia para clareamento, para garantir que o efeito clareadorproporcione condigoes adequadaspara um substrato dentário higido. Objetivo: O objetivo deste estudo in vitro foi avaliar os efeitos de um tratamento clareador com peróxido de carbamida (PC) a 10%, associado ou nao ao ozonio (O), na microdureza, rugosidade e micromorfologia da superficie do esmalte. Materials e Método: Blocos de esmalte bovino foram aplainados e distribuidos entre tres grupos de tratamento clareador (n=10): PC - 1 hora por dia/14 dias (Opalescence PF 10%/ Ultradent); O - 1 hora por dia a cada 3 dias/3 sessoes (Medplus VPhilozon, 60 mcg/mL e fluxo de oxigenio de 1 L/min); e PCO - CP com O, 1 hora por dia a cada 3 dias/3 sessoes. A microdureza (Knoop), a rugosidade (Ra) e a micromorfologia da superficie do esmalte avaliada por microscopia eletronica de varredura (aumento de 5.000x) foram analisadas antes e após os tratamentos. Resultados: ANOVA e teste de Tukey-Kramer mostraram que O e PCO mantiveram os valores de microdureza do esmalte ao final do tratamento (p=0,0087), enquanto PC promoveu diminuigao da microdureza. O promoveu maiores valores de microdureza do esmalte do que os outros grupos ao final do tratamento (p=0,0169). Modelos lineares generalizados mistos para medidas repetidas no tempo indicaram um aumento na rugosidade da superficie para PC, levando a maior rugosidade do esmalte ao final do tratamento, em comparagao com PCO ou O (p=0,0003). PC apresentou pequenas irregularidades na micromorfologia do esmalte após o tratamento clareador. O, com ou sem PC, manteve as propriedades mecánicas e fisicas de microdureza e micromorfologia da superficie do esmalte, e manteve ou reduziu a rugosidade da superficie, em comparagao com o tratamento clareador a base de PC aplicado em moldeira convencional. Conclusoes: O tratamento com peróxido de carbamida a 10% para uso em moldeiras promoveu maiores alteragoes nas propriedades de superficie do esmalte do que aquelas observadas nos tratamentos com ozonio e com peróxido de carbamida ozonizado a 10% para uso em consultório.

Effect of photopolymerization time on the microhardness of resin cement beneath feldspathic ceramic / Efecto del tiempo de fotopolimerización en la dureza de cementos de resina debajo de una cerámica feldespática

ABSTRACT During ceramic veneer luting, resin cement polymerization is performed with interposition of the dental ceramic. Aim: To evaluate how and how much the photoactivation time affects the Vickers hardness of resin-based cements with interposed ceramic. Materials and Method: A total 24 specimens H mm in diameter and 1 mm thick were made from Paracore White Coltene (PC), Densell Resin Duo Cement (DC), 3MRelyX Veneer (RX) and Coltene Fill Up! (FU), interposing VitablockMarkII (Vita Zahnfabrik) feldspathic ceramic 0.6 mm thick during photoactivation. The materials were polymerized using 100% and 25% of the times indicated by the manufacturers with a Coltolux LED ((Coltene) light with intensity 1200 mW/cm2. Each polymerization time group consisted of three specimens of each material, which were stored dry in darkness at 37 °C for 7 days. Three Vickers microhardness measurements were made on the top and bottom surfaces of each specimen using a Vickers Future Tech FM300 microhardness tester (300 g, 5 s). The values were averaged, and the bottom/top ratios calculated. Results were analyzed by ANOVA. (p<0.05) complemented with multiple comparisons using Tukey's test (p<0.05). Results: Different photoactivation times were found to have a significant effect on hardness values of the cements evaluated, with significant differences between some of the cements. No statistically significant difference was found for the effect of photoactivation time on bottom/top microhardness ratio in those materials. Conclusions: Under the experimental conditions employed, it can be concluded that photopolymerization for shorter times and the interposition of restorative material significantly affectpolymerization quality as evaluated by microhardness, but the bottom/top ratio was unaffected by differences in polymerization time.

RESUMEN Durante la fijación de una carilla cerámica, la polimerización del cemento a base de resinas se realiza con la interposición de la cerámica dental. Objetivo: evaluar en qué forma y magnitud afecta el tiempo de fotoactivación en la dureza Vickers de los cementos a base de resinas con la cerámica interpuesta. Materiales y Método: se confeccionaron 24 probetas de 11 mm de diámetro y 1 mm de espesor con: Paracore White Coltene (PC), Resin Duo Cement de Densell (DC), RelyX Veneer de 3M (RX) y Fill Up! De Coltene (FU) interponiendo 0,6 mm de espesor de cerámica feldespática Vitablock Mark II (Vita Zahnfabrik) durante la fotoactivación. Se polimerizó utilizando el 100% y el 25% del tiempo indicado por el fabricante con lámpara Coltolux LED ((Coltene) con 1200 mW/cm2 de intensidad. Cada grupo quedó conformado con tres probetas de cada material que se almacenaron a oscuras y en seco a 37 °C durante 7 días. Se registraron tres mediciones de microdureza Vickers de las superficies top y bottom de cada probeta con un microdurómetro Vickers Future Tech FM300 (300 g, 5 s) y se calculó su promedio, así como la relación entre los valores registrados en cada una de sus caras. Los resultados fueron analizados por medio de la prueba de ANOVA. (p<0.05). complementada con comparaciones múltiples por medio de la prueba de Tukey (p<0.05). Resultados: se encontró un efecto significativo de la modificación del tiempo de fotoactivación en los valores de dureza de los cementos evaluados con diferencias significativas entre algunos de ellos. Simultáneamente no se encontró significación estadística en el efecto de ese factor sobre la relación microdureza bottom/top registrada en esos materiales. Conclusiones: en las condiciones experimentales empleadas puede concluirse que la fotopolimerización en menor tiempo e interposición de material restaurador afecta significativamente la calidad de polimerización evaluada mediante los valores de microdureza, pero la proporción bottom/ top no fue afectada en la variación en el tiempo de polimerización.

Influence of pigment solutions on color stability and surface properties in low-shrinkage and conventional composites / Influência de soluções pigmentantes na estabilidade de cor e propriedades de superfície em compósitos convencionais e de baixa contração

ABSTRACT Color stability is among the most frequent causes of restoration failures, and influences surface properties. Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of pigment solutions on low-shrinkage and conventional composites regarding changes in the physical properties of composite surfaces. Materials and Method: Specimens of four composites (Filtek Z350 XT, Point 4, N'Durance and Venus Diamond) were randomly distributed into three groups to be submitted to each of three pigment solutions (red wine, tomato sauce and coffee) in fifteen-minute daily cycles, for twenty-eight days. There were 12 groups altogether (n = 10). Color, surface roughness and hardness tests were performed. Statistical analysis includedAnalysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey's significance test (a = 0.05). Results: Color changes caused by the solutions did not differ significantly among Filtek Z350 XT, Venus Diamond and N'Durance. Hardness decreased significantly in Filtek Z350 XT and Venus Diamond after chemical challenge with each solution. For the composite independent factor, roughness was highest in Venus Diamond, followed by Filtek Z350 XT, Point 4 and N'Durance. Conclusions: Treatment with different pigment solutions (red wine, tomato sauce or coffee) increased stainability and decreased hardness of both low-shrinkage and conventional composites, while roughness was unaffected.

RESUMO A estabilidade de cor está entre as causas mais frequentes de falhas de restauragoes, que também influenciam suas propriedades superficiais. Objetivo: O objetivo do presente estudo foi investigar a influencia de solugoes de pigmentos em compósitos convencionais e de baixa retragao, bem como alteragoes naspropriedades físicas da superficie dos compósitos. Materiais eMétodo: Amostras de cada compósito (Filtek Z350XT, Point 4, N'Durance e Venus Diamond) foram distribuidas aleatoriamente em grupos submetidos a cada solugao pigmentante (vinho tinto, molho de tomate e café) em ciclos diários de quinze minutos, durante vinte e oito dias. Assim, totalizando 12 grupos (n = 10). Foram realizados testes de cor, rugosidade superficial e dureza. A Análise Estatistica foi realizada usando Análise de variáncia (ANOVA) e o teste de significáncia de Tukey (a = 0.05). Resultados: As alteragoes de cor desencadeadas pelas solugoes investigadas nao mostraram diferenga estatisticamente significativa entre os compósitos Filtek Z350 XT, Venus Diamond e N'Durance. Os valores de dureza registrados para Filtek Z350XT e Venus Diamond diminuiram significativamente após o desafio químico com cada uma das solugoes pigmentantes. Para o fator independente compósito, Venus Diamond registrou a maior rugosidade; foi seguido por Filtek Z350XT, Point 4 e N'Durance. Conclusoes: Os tratamentos das amostras com diferentes solugoes pigmentantes (vinho tinto, molho de tomate e café) aumentaram a manchabilidade dos compósitos convencionais e de baixa retragao e diminuiram sua dureza, embora nao tenham afetado a rugosidade dos compósitos.

Formulation and evaluation of Buccal mucoadhesive tablets of diclofenac sodium using 23 factorial designs

Buccal tablets

Diclofenac sodium

Drug release

Mucoadhesion

Mucoadhesive tablets

Release kinetics

Whitening Effect of Different Toothpastes on Bovine Dental Enamel: an in situ study

Abstract The aim of this in situ study was to evaluate color change, surface roughness, gloss, and microhardness in tooth enamel submitted to whitening and remineralizing toothpastes. Fifteen healthy adults (REBEC - RBR-7p87yr) (with unstimulated salivary flow ≥ 1.5 ml for 5 minutes, pH=7) wore two intraoral devices containing four bovine dental fragments (6 x 6 x 2 mm). Participants were randomly assigned and instructed to toothbrush the devices with the tested toothpastes (30 days): CT: conventional; WT: whitening; WTP: whitening with peroxide, and RT: remineralizing toothpaste. A washout period of 7 days was established. Readouts of color, gloss, surface roughness, and microhardness were performed before and after brushing. The results demonstrated no color, gloss, and microhardness differences (p>0.5). The samples brushed with WTP (0.2(0.7) showed higher surface roughness (p=0.0493) than those with WT (-0.5(1.0). The toothpastes did not alter the properties of the dental enamel, except for the roughness. Toothpaste with an abrasive system based on sodium bicarbonate and silica, and that contains sodium carbonate peroxide increased the surface roughness of the enamel.

Resumo O objetivo deste estudo in situ foi avaliar a alteração de cor, rugosidade superficial, brilho e microdureza em esmalte dentário submetido a dentifrícios clareadores e remineralizantes. Quinze adultos saudáveis (REBEC - RBR-7p87yr) (com fluxo salivar não estimulado ≥ 1.5 mL por 5 minutos, pH = 7) usaram dois dispositivos intrabucais contendo quatro fragmentos dentários bovinos (6 x 6 x 2 mm). Os participantes foram aleatoriamente designados e instruídos a escovar os aparelhos com os dentifrícios testados (30 dias): CO: convencional; CL: clareador; CLP: clareador com peróxido e RE: remineralizante. Foi estabelecido um período de washout de 7 dias. Leituras de cor, brilho, rugosidade superficial e microdureza foram realizadas antes e após a escovação. Os resultados não demonstraram diferenças na cor, brilho e microdureza. As amostras escovadas com CLP apresentaram maior rugosidade superficial (p=0,0493) do que aquelas com CL. Os dentifrícios não alteraram as propriedades do esmalte dental, exceto a rugosidade. O dentifrício com sistema abrasivo à base de bicarbonato de sódio e sílica, e que contém peróxido de carbonato de sódio aumentou a rugosidade de superfície do esmalte.

The mediating effect of hardness on growth mindset and transition shock among nursing undergraduate interns / 中国实用护理杂志

Objective:To explore the mediating effect of hardness on growth mindest and transition shock among nursing undergraduate interns, and to provide theoretical basis for promoting clinical adaptability of nurses.Methods:Totally 223 nursing undergraduates who practiced in five grade A hospitals in Shanghai city, Henan province and Jiangsu province were selected as the participants by convenient sampling from September to October 2022. General information questionnaire, Growth Mindset Scale (GMS), Hardness scale, and the Transition Shock of Newly Graduated Nurses (TSNGNS) were used in the questionnaire cross section survey.Results:Totally 210 valid questionnaires were retrieved. The scores of growth mindset, hardness and transition shock were (32.67 ± 4.52), (63.80 ± 13.51) and (86.97 ± 18.70), respectively. Growth mindset was positively correlated with hardness ( r=0.369, P<0.01), growth mindset was negatively correlated with transition shock ( r=-0.334, P<0.01), and resilience was negatively correlated with transition shock ( r=-0.346, P<0.01). Hardness had a partial mediating effect on the association between growth mindset and transition shock in nursing undergraduate interns, with 27.35% mediating effect. Conclusions:Growth mindset can affect the transition shock in nursing undergraduate interns through hardness. Nursing educators should pay attention to the development of growth mindset and the cultivation of hardness of nursing interns, and take targeted measures to reduce the transition shock and promote clinical adaptability.

Effects of Yinqi Sanhuang Jiedu Decoction （茵芪三黄解毒汤） on Liver Hardness and Epithelial Mesenchymal Transition in Hepatic Fibrosis Model Mice / 中医杂志

ObjectiveTo investigate the possible mechanism of compound Yinqi Sanhuang Jiedu Decoction （茵芪三黄解毒汤， YSJD） against the progression of hepatic fibrosis （HF）. MethodsThirty-eight C57BL/6J mice were randomly divided into blank group， model group， silybin group and low-， medium- and high-dose YSJD groups， with eight mice in the model group and six mice each in other groups. Except for the blank group， all mice were injected intraperitoneally with 10% carbon tetrachloride （CCl4） to establish a HF model， twice a week for 8 weeks. The drug intervention started one week after the first modeling； the low-， medium- and high-dose YSJD groups were given 8.325， 16.65 and 33.3 g/（kg·d） of YSJD suspension by gavage， respectively， while the silybin group was given 55 mg/（kg·d） of silybin suspension by gavage， and the blank group and the model group were given 0.2 ml normal saline by gavage， all for 8 weeks. The liver hardness of living mice was observed using a small animal ultrasound detector， and grey-scale ultrasound was recorded. The liver tissue was observed by Sirius scarlet staining， and the proportion of collagen fiber deposition was calculated. Liver function indicators including alanine aminotransferase （ALT） and aspartate aminotransferase （AST）， and serum laminin （LN）， hyaluronic acid （HA）， pre-collagen type III （PCIII） and collagen type IV （CIV） were also detected. The protein expression of transforming growth factor β1 （TGF-β1）， Vimentin， E-cadherin， α smooth muscle actin （α-SMA） in liver tissue were detected. ResultsCompared to the blank group， the model group showed increased gray value， collagen deposition，serum ALT， AST， HA， LN and PCIII levels， decreased expression of E-cadherin， and increased expression of N-cadherin，α-SMA，Vimentin and TGF-β1 in liver tissues （P＜0.05）. Compared to the model group， the ultrasonic gray value and the proportion of collagen fiber deposition in liver of silybin group and YSJD medium- and high-dose groups decreased， and the serum ALT， AST， LN， HA and PCⅢ levels decreased. Compared to the model group， the expression of E-cadherin in liver tissues of silybin group and all three YSJD groups increased， while the expressions of N-cadherin， Vimentin， TGF-β1 and α-SMA decreased （P＜0.05）， and among them， most improvements were seen in the medium-dose YSJD group （P＜0.05）. ConclusionThe effect of YSJD on significantly reducing the extent of HF in mice caused by CCl4 may be related to its ability to regulate liver hardness and inhibit the occurrence of epithelial mesenchymal transition in mice.

Effect of thermocycling on internal microhardness of high and low viscosity bulk fill composite resins in class I cavities / Efeito da termociclagem na microdureza interna de resinas compostas bulk fill de alta e baixa viscosidade aplicadas em cavidades classe I

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate the effect of thermocycling on the Knoop internal microhardness of high- and low viscosity bulk fill resins applied in Class I cavities. Methods: Thirty third molars with Class I cavity preparations were randomly divided into 3 groups according to the restorative system: nanoparticulated composite resin (Filtek™ Z350 XT 3M ESPE) (oblique increments of 2mm); low viscosity bulk fill resin (Filtek™ Bulk fill Flow, 3M ESPE) (3mm increments covered with a 1-mm layer of nanoparticulated resin); high viscosity bulk fill resin (Filtek™ Bulk fill, 3M ESPE) (single 4-mm increment). After 24h, half of samples was submitted to thermocycling (1,000 cycles). All samples (n=5) were sectioned in half to measure the internal microhardness at bottom and top of restoration. Results: Analysis of variance indicated that, for nanoparticulated composite resin, without thermocycling, the microhardness at the top was statistically lower than at the bottom. After thermocycling, there was no difference in microhardness between the top and the bottom. For low viscosity bulk fill resin, without thermocycling, there was no significant difference in microhardness means between the top and the bottom. After thermocycling, significantly higher microhardness was found at the top than at the bottom (p <0.05). For high viscosity bulk fill resin there was no significant difference between the microhardness values at the top and bottom, regardless of thermocycling (p> 0.05). In all composite resins, an increase in microhardness was observed after thermocycling (p <0.05). Conclusion: Thermocycling increased the internal microhardness of resin restorations, and, for the low viscosity bulk fill resin, the microhardness at the top was higher than at the bottom after thermocycling.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar o efeito da termociclagem na microdureza Knoop interna de resinas bulk fill de alta e baixa viscosidade aplicadas em cavidades classe I. Métodos: Trinta terceiros molares com cavidades Classe I foram divididos aleatoriamente em três grupos de acordo com o sistema restaurador: Resina composta nanoparticulada (Filtek™ Z350 XT 3M ESPE) (incrementos oblíquos de 2mm); resina bulk fill de baixa viscosidade (Filtek™ Bulk fill Flow, 3M ESPE) (incremento de 3mm mais 1mm de resina nanoparticulada); resina bulk fill de alta viscosidade (Filtek ™ Bulk fill, 3M ESPE) (único incremento de 4mm). Após 24h, metade das amostras foi submetida a termociclagem (1.000 ciclos). Todas as amostras (n=5) foram seccionadas ao meio para mensuração da microdureza interna na base e topo da restauração. Resultados: Análise de variância indicou que, para a resina composta nanoparticulada e antes da termociclagem, a microdureza no topo foi estatisticamente inferior do que na base (p<0,05). Após a termociclagem, não houve diferença entre topo e base. Já para a resina bulk fill de baixa viscosidade, antes da termociclagem, não se constatou diferença significativa nos valores de microdureza entre topo e base. Após termociclagem, valores significativamente mais elevados de microdureza foram encontrados no topo do que na base (p<0,05). Para resina bulk fill de alta viscosidade, não houve diferença significativa na microdureza entre topo e base, realizando-se ou não termociclagem (p>0,05). Em todas as resinas compostas foi verificado aumento de microdureza após termociclagem (p<0,05). Conclusão: A termociclagem aumentou a microdureza para todas as resinas compostas, sendo que para a resina bulk fill de baixa viscosidade a microdureza no topo foi maior do que na base após termociclagem.

Flexural strength and Vickers hardness of milled and 3D-printed resins for provisional dental restorations

Various forms of temporary resins are offered on the market; however, the properties of temporary resins obtained by milling and 3D printing have not been fully examined. This study aimed to compare the flexural strength and Vickers hardness of milled and 3D-printed resins. Methods: Three resins were tested: Evolux PMMA (milled resin), Cosmos Temp (3D-printed resin), and Structur 2 SC (bis-acrylic resin, group control). Specimens were prepared with rectangular shapes (n = 12) for flexural strength measurements and disc shapes (n = 9) for Vickers hardness tests. Flexural strength tests were performed at a crosshead speed of 0.75 mm/min, and the Vickers hardness was measured under a load of 20 N for 10 s. The obtained data were subjected to the Kruskal­Wallis test. Results: A significant difference (p < 0.05) in flexural strength was observed among the three sample groups: Evolux PMMA (111.76 MPa), Structur 2 SC (87.34 MPa), and Cosmos Temp (56.83 MPa). No significant difference (p < 0.05) was observed between the Vickers hardness values of Structur 2 SC (33.37 VHN) and Evolux PMMA (29.11 VHN); however, both materials were statistically superior to Cosmos Temp (10.90 VHN). Conclusion: While the mechanical properties of the milled resin were superior or similar to those of the bisacrylic resin, the 3D-printed resin was statistically inferior to both the milled and bis-acrylic resins

Cigarette Smoking Effect on Microhardness and Flexural Properties of Denture Base Resins

ABSTRACT Objective: To identify the tobacco effect on flexural properties and the microhardness of three acrylic resins. Material and Methods: Three resins were tested: two thermo-polymerizable acrylic resins (RMB 20 and BMS 014) and one autopolymerized acrylic resin. The 3-point bending and microhardness tests were carried out with a universal tensile-compression machine and a micro-Vickers hardness tester. The acrylic resin specimens have been exposed for 21 days to cigarette smoke in a smoking room. Their mechanical strength was compared to unexposed samples. Statistical analysis was performed using the data processing software SPSS Statistics 21.0. Results: The flexural properties of the resins were affected by cigarette smoke only in the case of Major Base 20® (drop in strength with p= 0.02; 0.6; 0.7 and in elastic modulus with p= 0.86; 0.74 and 0.85 for Major Base 20®, BMS 014® and Major Repair®). The cigarette smoke affected significantly microhardness for all groups (p<0.001). Conclusion: Cigarette smoking does not affect the flexural properties of the acrylic resin (BMS 014® and Major Repair® unlike Major Base 20®), but it does reduce the microhardness.

Changes in the properties of bulk-fill resins under conditions of gastroesophageal reflux and bulimia

Aim: Evaluate the roughness, microhardness and color change of different Bulk Fill resins when submitted to the condition of gastroesophageal reflux and bulimia. Methods: 60 specimens (n = 10) of Bulk-Fill composite resins were made: M1 ­ Filtek™; M2 ­ Tetric N-Ceram and M3 ­ OPUS, through a matrix 2x6 mm and light cured by the VALO light source. After polishing, initial analyzes (48 hours - T0) of surface roughness (Ra), microhardness (VHN) and color change (ΔE) were performed. To simulate the oral condition of severe gastroesophageal reflux and bulimia, the specimens were immersed in hydrochloric acid (S1) (pH 1.7) 4 minutes a day, for 7 days. Control group specimens were immersed in artificial saliva (S2). Subsequently to immersions, mechanical brushing was performed for 3 minutes, three times a day, simulating 7 days of brushing. And again, the analyzes of Ra, VHN and ΔE were performed (7 days - T1). Thus, hydrochloric acid immersion, mechanical brushing and Ra analysis were repeated at 14 days (T2) and 21 days (T3); and T2, T3 and T4 (3 years) for VHN and ΔE. Results: After Shapiro-Wilk statistical test, ANOVA and Tukey test with Bonferroni adjustment (p>0.05), M3 showed the lowest Ra at all times compared to the other resins, while the highest Ra was at T0. M1 and T1 showed higher VHN. And M2 and T4 showed higher ΔE. Conclusion: Bulk Fill resins can be indicated for patients with Gastroesophageal Reflux and Bulimia, nonetheless, Tetric N-Ceram resin showed the worst results

Difference of cervical and shoulder muscle performance and its correlation with pain and body mass index in patients with chronic neck pain / 中国康复理论与实践

ObjectiveTo test the inter-tester reliability and test-retest reliability of MyotonPRO for evaluating neck and shoulder muscle performance parameters in patients with unilateral chronic neck pain, observe the difference of muscle performance between the healthy and affected sides of patients with chronic neck pain, and analyze the factors that cause the imbalance of muscle performance in patients with chronic neck pain. MethodsFrom January to June, 2023, 32 patients with unilateral chronic neck pain in Guangdong Second Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital were selected. Two testers used the same MyotonPRO equipment to measure the muscle tone, muscle hardness and muscle elasticity on both sides of the sternocleidomastoid muscle and the upper trapezius muscle in the relaxed position. Tester 1 repeated the measurement after an interval of 30 minutes, and Tester 2 was measured within the time interval between the two measurements of Tester 1. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), standard error of mean (SEM) and minimum detectable change (MDC) were calculated simultaneously. The measurement results were plotted into Bland-Altman diagram and systematic bias analysis was performed. The difference in muscle characteristics between the affected side and the healthy side was compared. At the same time, the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) score and body mass index (BMI) of the subjects were collected for correlation analysis. ResultsExcept the sternocleidomastoid muscle elasticity of the affected side (ICC = 0.697), the inter-tester reliability of all other parameters was high to very high (ICC = 0.719 to 0.952, SEM = 0.04 to 6.53, MDC = 0.12 to 18.11). The test-retest reliability of all parameters was high (ICC = 0.883 to 0.981, SEM = 0.03 to 5.72, MDC = 0.09 to 15.84). Bland-Altman plot analysis showed that the scatter distribution was consistent. The muscle tone, muscle hardness and muscle elasticity of sternocleidomastoid muscle and upper trapezius muscle were higher on the affected side than on the healthy side (t > 2.846, P < 0.05). The asymmetry index of tension, hardness and elasticity of upper trapezius muscle and sternocleidomastoid muscle was significantly positively correlated with VAS score and BMI (r > 0.385, P < 0.05). ConclusionMyotonPRO has good inter-tester reliability and retest reliability in evaluating the muscle performance of both sides of patients with chronic neck pain. The muscle tone, muscle hardness and muscle elasticity of sternocleidomastoid muscle and upper trapezius muscle on the affected side were higher than on the healthy side, and the difference of muscle performance was positively correlated with pain and BMI.

Discussion on Formation and Intervention of the Tumor Microenvironment Based on the Theory of “Where There is Mass Hardness， There must be Latent Yang” / 中医杂志

As the environmental foundation for tumor survival，the tumor microenvironment is characterized by immunosuppression， ischemia and hypoxia， metabolic reprogramming， and inflammatory infiltration， providing conditions for tumor cell colonization， malignant transformation and migration. In traditional Chinese medicine （TCM）， yang qi is considered to be closely related to the onset of tumors. Based on the TCM theory of “where there is mass hardness， there must be latent yang”， this paper suggests that the state of “latent yang” formed by abnormal yang energy is highly similar to the tumor microenvironment. The loss of protection of latent yang leads to the weakening of positive immunity， invasion of disease and then accumulation of tumors. The constraint of latent yang leads to microcirculation disorders， blocked vessels and collaterals， and finally qi and blood blockage. The turbidity of latent yang leads to abnormal metabolic products gathering， pathogenic turbidity accumulation， and tumor formulation through contention and binding between them. The transformation of fire by latent yang mediates “inflammation-cancer” transformation， and leads to malignant transformation of cancerous tumors. The transformation of latent yang into toxin leads to premeditated pre-metastatic niches， healthy qi deficiency and toxin accumulation， and cancerous toxins flow. Based on the theory of “latent yang” and modern researches， this paper summarized the method of “warming yang and invigorating qi to consolidate the root， promoting yang and moving qi to eliminate stasis， strengthening yang capacity of transforming qi to remove the disadvantages， diffusing yang and opening up constraint to disperse fire， and reinforcing healthy qi and clearing the source to prevent toxins” in the intervention of the tumor microenvironment， so as to provide ideas for TCM to reshape the tumor microenvironment and regulate the tumor process.

Characteristics of paravertebral muscles in patients with unilateral lumbar disc herniation / 中国康复理论与实践

ObjectiveTo explore the imbalance of paravertebral muscle group for patients with unilateral lumbar disc herniation. MethodsFrom January, 2022 to January, 2023, 30 patients with unilateral lumbar disc herniation (observation group) and 30 healthy people matching in general data (control group) were measured the tension and stiffness of multifidus and erector spinae with MyotonPRO, while the observation group was assessed with Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) for pain and Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) score, and the time of disease was also recorded. ResultsThe mean of bilateral tension and hardness of multifidus and erector spinae was more in the observation group than in the control group (|t| > 5.407, P < 0.001), and the tension and hardness of multifidus and erector spinae of the affected side were more than those of the unaffected side in the observation group (|t| > 11.219, P < 0.001). The tension and hardness of multifidus and erector spinae of the affected side were positively correlated with VAS score (r > 0.942, P < 0.001), and negatively correlated with JOA score (|r| > 0.886, P < 0.001). ConclusionThe tension and hardness of multifidus and erector spinae of the affected side increase after unilateral lumbar disc herniation, resulting in asymmetry.

A study on the diagnostic value of GP73 in liver fibrosis among patients with chronic liver disease / 中华内科杂志

Objective:This study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic value of serum Golgi protein 73(GP73) alone and GP73 combined with liver stiffness measurement (LSM), aspartate aminotransferase/platelet ratio index (APRI), and 4-factor-based fibrosis index (FIB4) in diagnosing liver fibrosis in patients with chronic liver disease of different etiologies.Methods:A diagnostic test. A total of 68 patients who underwent liver biopsy in the Department of Traditional and Western Medical Hepatology of the Third Hospital of Hebei Medical University from October 2019 to December 2020 were selected to detect serum GP73 levels. iLivTouch was used to assess liver stiffness measurement (LSM). In addition, serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), total bilirubin (TBil), direct bilirubin (DBil), triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels, and peripheral platelet (PLT) counts were assayed. The correlation between GP73 and the above indexes was assessed, and APRI and FIB-4 were calculated. SPSS 21.0 statistical software was used for statistical analysis. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was calculated to evaluate diagnostic efficacy of GP73 in identifying hepatic fibrosis stages. Furthermore, the difference between GP73 and liver stiffness, as well as APRI and FIB4 in diagnosing significant fibrosis was assessed.Results:Based on liver biopsy, 13, 18, 17, and 20 cases were diagnosed as stages S0-1, S2, S3, and S4, respectively. The AUC of GP73 diagnosing hepatic fibrosis stage S≥3 and S=4 were 0.806 and 0.844 at cut-off points of 2.06 and 3.27 μg/L, and the sensitivity and specificity were 93.5%, 61.5%, 90.0%, 70.3%, respectively. In addition, GP73 levels were positively correlated with the degree of liver fibrosis ( r=0.547, P<0.001). Conclusions:The efficacy of serum GP73 level in diagnosing the degree of liver fibrosis in patients with chronic liver disease from different causes was significantly higher than that of APRI, FIB4, and LSM. The combination of GP73 and FIB4 can further improve the accuracy of diagnosis of liver fibrosis staging S≥3 and S=4, which is a reliable serological marker for the diagnosis of fibrosis in patients with chronic liver disease.

Assessment of influence of LED curing units used on microhardness of resin-modified glass ionomer sealants

Aim: Resin modified glass ionomer (RMGI) is class of material that can be used as sealant for preventing and arresting the progression of caries in pits and fissures. As these are hybrid materials, their properties can be affected by factors related to the polymerization process. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the influence of different generations of LED curing units (Elipar DeepCure-L and VALO Grand) on Knoop microhardness values (KHN) of RMGI sealants (Clinpro XT and Vitremer). Methods: Forty cylindrical specimens (6mm ø x 1 mm high) were prepared according to the manufacturer's instructions and divided into four groups (n=10) according to the type of RMGI and LED used. The KHN of the top surface of each sample was calculated 7 days after light-curing. Data were submitted to two-way ANOVA (α = 0.05). Results: Vitremer had higher KHN values than Clinpro XT after using both LEDs (p<0.0001), but especially when light-cured with the use of VALO Grand (p<0.0001). Whereas the KHN value of Clinpro was not influenced by the LED device (p>0.05). Conclusions: Top surface microhardness values of RGMI sealants were affected by both material composition and generations of LED curing units used. Third generation LED curing units seemed to be more efficient for the polymerization of RMGI-based sealants