Antimicrobial and anti-caries effect of new glass ionomer cement on enamel under microcosm biofilm model

Abstract The occurrence of caries lesions adjacent to restorations is a serious problem in Dentistry. Therefore, new antimicrobial restorative materials could help to prevent recurrent carious lesions. This study evaluated the effect of a new glass ionomer cement (Ion Z) on the viability of a microcosm biofilm and on the development of enamel demineralization. Enamel samples were filled with the following materials (n=9): A) Ion-Z (FGM Ltda); B) Maxxion R (FGM Ltda); C) Ketac Fil Plus (3M ESPE) and D) no restoration (control). The samples were then exposed to human saliva mixed with McBain saliva (1:50) containing 0.2% sucrose for 14 days. The live and dead bacteria were quantified by fluorescence using a confocal laser-scanning microscope. The enamel demineralization was analyzed using transverse microradiography (TMR). The data were submitted to ANOVA/Tukey or Kruskal-Wallis/Dunn test (p<0.05). Ion Z induced a higher percentage of dead bacteria (60.96±12.0%) compared to the other groups (Maxxion R: 39.8±6.7%, Ketac Fil Plus: 43.7±9.71% and control 46.3±9.5%). All materials significantly reduced the average mineral loss compared to control (Ion-Z 25.0±4.2%vol, Maxxion R 23.4±8.0%vol, Ketac Fil Plus 30.7±7.7 and control 41.2±6.6%vol). Ion-Z was the only material able to significantly improve the mineral content at the surface layer (Zmax: 63.5±18.2%vol) compared to control (38.9±11.3%vol). Ion-Z shows antimicrobial potential, but its anti-caries effect was similar to the other materials, under this model.

Resumo A ocorrência de lesões de cárie adjacentes a restaurações é um sério problema na Odontologia. Portanto, novos materiais restauradores antimicrobianos poderiam ajudar a prevenir as lesões cariosas recorrentes. Este estudo avaliou o efeito de um novo cimento de ionômero de vidro (Ion Z) sobre a viabilidade de um biofilme microcosmo e o desenvolvimento da desmineralização do esmalte. Amostras de esmalte foram restauradas com os seguintes materiais (n=9): A) Ion-Z (FGM Ltda); B) Maxxion R (FGM Ltda); C) Ketac Fil Plus (3M ESPE) e D) sem restauração (controle). As amostras foram submetidas a uma mistura de saliva humana com saliva de McBain (1:50) contendo sacarose a 0,2% por 14 dias. As bactérias vivas e mortas foram quantificadas por fluorescência usando um microscópio confocal de varredura à laser. A desmineralização do esmalte foi analisada usando microradiografia transversal (TMR). Os dados foram submetidos aos testes ANOVA/Tukey ou Kruskal-Wallis/Dunn (p<0,05). O Ion Z induziu uma porcentagem mais elevada de bactérias mortas (60,96 ± 12,0%) comparado aos outros grupos (Maxxion R: 39,8 ± 6,7%, Ketac Fil Plus: 43,7 ± 9,71% e controle 46,3 ± 9,5%). Todos os materiais reduziram significativamente a perda mineral média em relação ao controle (Ion-Z 25,0 ± 4,2% vol, Maxxion R 23,4 ± 8,0% vol, Ketac Fil Plus 30,7 ± 7,7% vol e controle 41,2 ± 6,6% vol). O Ion-Z foi o único material capaz de melhorar significativamente o conteúdo mineral na camada superficial (Zmax: 63,5 ± 18,2% vol) em comparação com o controle (38,9 ± 11,3% vol). Ion-Z mostrou potencial antimicrobiano, mas seu efeito anti-cárie foi semelhante aos outros materiais, sob este modelo.

Electrocardiographic evaluation of healthy dogs treated with ophthalmic solution of timolol maleate 0.5%: preliminary study / Avaliação eletrocardiográfica de cães clinicamente hígidos sob tratamento com solução oftálmica de maleato de timolol 0.5%: estudo preliminar

Timolol maleate 0.5% is a drug recommended for glaucoma treatment in dogs. After administration, it is absorbed to systemic circulation and being an antagonist of beta adrenergic receptors it has important systemic side effects on cardiac electrical conduction. The present study evaluated the modification caused by ophthalmic timolol 0.5% in the electrocardiogram. Six clinically normal dogs were selected to participate in two different ophthalmic treatments: in the first one, a placebo (hypromellose 0.5%) was used and in the second one, timolol 0.5% was administered. Each solution was applied twice a day, for 14 days. The electrocardiographic parameters were measured in times: zero, 10, 60, 120, 240, 360 and 720 min after ocular solution instillation in first, seventh and 14th days of each treatment. The differences found in electrocardiogram were more evident between 120 and 240 min after instillation of timolol 0.5% when compared with placebo treatment. The rhythm was irregular, with sinus arrhythmia and sinus bradycardia moments. The RR and PR intervals lengthen notoriously (p 0.05) from the first day of timolol administration, and are more expressive in the 14th day of treatment. The QT interval demonstrated a few changes, just lengthening noticeably (p 0.05) in the 14th day of timolol application. The QTc interval did not show expressive change. Despite the changes in the electrocardiogram, no clinical manifestation related to beta-adrenoceptor antagonists were observed. One must consider, however, that the animals studied were healthy and thus, clinical signs could result from the changes implied by the use of timolol in animals with pre-existing heart disease. Therefore, cardiac assessment of patients prior to prescription of ophthalmic timolol is recommended.

O maleato de timolol 0,5% é um fármaco recomendado para tratamento de glaucoma em cães. Após instilação, e absorvido para a circulação sistêmica e por ser um antagonista beta-adrenérgico pode promover efeitos colaterais sistêmicos importantes sobre a condução elétrica cardíaca. No presente estudo, foi avaliada a alteração causada pelo timolol 0,5% oftálmico no eletrocardiograma. Foram selecionados seis cães hígidos para participar de dois tratamentos oftálmicos diferentes: no primeiro foi instilado placebo (hipromelose 0,5%) e no segundo utilizou-se timolol 0,5%. O colírio foi instilado a cada 12 horas por 14 dias. Os parâmetros eletrocardiográficos foram mensurados nos tempos: zero, 10, 60, 120, 240, 360 e 720 minutos após instilação da solução ocular nos dias primeiro, sétimo e décimo quarto de cada tratamento. As alterações eletrocardiográficas foram mais evidentes entre 120 e 240 minutos pós-instilação de timolol 0,5% quando comparado com o tratamento placebo. O ritmo foi irregular, com momentos de arritmia sinusal e bradicardia sinusal. Os intervalos RR e PR prolongaram significativamente (p 0,05) desde o primeiro dia de instilação de timolol, sendo o prolongamento mais expressivo no décimo quarto dia de tratamento. O intervalo QT demonstrou pouca variação, apenas prolongando significativamente (p 0,05) no décimo quarto dia de aplicação de timolol. O intervalo QTc não demonstrou alteração significativa (p > 0,05). Apesar das alterações encontradas, não foram observadas manifestações clínicas relacionadas ao timolol nos animais estudados. Deve-se considerar, porém, que os animais em questão eram hígidos e, portanto, as alterações decorrentes do uso do timolol em animais com cardiopatias preexistentes poderiam promover sinais clínicos, sendo recomendada a avaliação cardíaca de pacientes previamente à prescrição do timolol oftálmico.

The Incidence of Irritable Bowel Syndrome in Children Using the Rome III Criteria and the Effect of Trimebutine Treatment

BACKGROUND/AIMS: Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is one of the most common functional gastrointestinal disorders and when compared to the vast knowledge pertaining to adults with IBS, very little is known about IBS in children and adolescents. We aimed to explore the prevalence of IBS, identify symptoms and contributing factors and also to examine the efficacy of trimebutine maleate in children and adolescents. METHODS: The study involved 345 children and adolescents (4-18 years) and parents were requested to fill in a questionnaire, Rome III criteria was used to diagnose IBS. To exclude organic disease, all patients underwent medical investigations. Half of the randomly selected IBS patients were treated with trimebutine maleate while the rest of IBS patients were not. The IBS patients were reevaluated at the end of 3 weeks. RESULTS: The prevalence of IBS according to Rome III criteria in children and adolescents was 22.6% and IBS with constipation was the predominant subtype. Back pain (OR, 6.68), headache (OR, 4.72) and chronic fatigue (OR, 3.74) were significantly higher in IBS group. The prevalence of IBS in both parents and depression in mothers was greater for the patient group than the healthy controls (P < 0.0001). The prevalence of functional dyspepsia in IBS group was 80.8% and was significantly higher than control group. Clinical recovery was seen in 94.9% of the trimebutine maleate group versus spontaneous recovery in 20.5% of the non-medicated group. The difference was significant (P < 0.0001). CONCLUSIONS: IBS is a common disorder in children and adolescents. IBS is closely associated with somatic and familial factors. Trimebutine maleate is effective for pediatric IBS patients.

A randomized, double-blind, double-dummy, controlled, multicenter study of entecavir maleate versus entecavir for treatment of HBeAg-negative chronic hepatitis B: results at week 48 / 中华肝脏病杂志

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To evaluate the efficacy and safety of entecavir (ETV) maleate versus ETV in Chinese patients with hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg)-negative chronic hepatitis B (CHB).</p><p><b>METHODS</b>This was a randomized, double-blind, double-dummy, controlled, multicenter study. Patients were randomly assigned to receive 48 weeks of treatment with 0.5 mg/day ETV (group A; n = 26) or 0.5 mg/day ETV maleate (n = 31). Hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA levels were measured at weeks 12, 24, and 48 by the Roche Cobas Ampliprep/Taqman PCR assay. Adverse events (AE) were recorded.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>Baseline characteristics were similar between the two groups. At weeks 12, 24, and 48, the mean HBV DNA level had similarly decreased from baseline in both groups (A: by 4.24, 4.61 and 4.88 log10 IU/mL vs. B: 4.01, 4.50 and 4.99 log10 IU/mL, respectively; all P more than 0.05). Patients who achieved undetectable levels of serum HBV DNA (less than 20 IU/mL) at week 48 were similar in the two groups (A: 69.23% vs. B: 80.65%; P more than 0.05). Both groups achieved similar normalization of ALT at week 48 (A: 96.00% vs. B: 83.87%; P more than 0.05). The overall AE incidence was similar for the two groups (A: 22.22% vs. B: 9.38%; P more than 0.05).</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>Entecavir maleate and entecavir showed similar efficacy and safety in patients with HBeAg-negative CHB.</p>

Comparison of Pharmacokinetic Characteristics and the Safety between Amlodipine Maleate Tablet 5 mg and Amlodipine Besylate Tablet 5 mg

BACKGROUND: Amlodipine is a third-generation dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker for treating hypertension. Though marketed primarily as a besylate salt, there have been some efforts to find other comparable salts. Among them, maleate is the salt that has been considered favorable for many drugs. The aim of this study was to compare the pharmacokinetics, as well as safety and tolerability of amlodipine maleate with amlodipine besylate. METHODS: This study was open, randomized, two-period crossover design investigated in twelve healthy male volunteers over a 144 h period after administrating two forms of amlodipine 5 mg, respectively. Each period was separated with 2 weeks. Plasma concentrations of amlodipine were determined by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Safety profiles were assessed by vital signs, physical examinations, electrocardiograms, laboratory testing and adverse events monitoring. RESULTS: All subjects were completed this study. Geometric mean ratios (GMRs) of amlodipine maleate/amlodipine besylate of Cmax and AUClast for amlodipine were 0.92 (90 % confidence interval, 0.81 ~ 1.05) and 1.05 (0.96 ~ 1.16), respectively. No serious adverse events were reported, and no clinically relevant changes were observed in safety profiles during this trial. CONCLUSION: Pharmacokinetics, tolerability and the safety were comparable between amlodipine maleate and amlodipine besylate in healthy individuals.

Effect of green propolis addition to physical mechanical properties of glass ionomer cements

OBJECTIVE: This study investigated the mechanical properties of glass ionomer cements (GICs) combined with propolis as a natural antimicrobial substance. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Typifed green propolis, as an ethanolic extract (EEP) or in the lyophilized form (powder), was incorporated to specimens of Ketac Fil Plus, ChemFlex and Ketac Molar Easymix GICs. For each test, 8 specimens of each material were prepared. For water sorption and solubility tests, specimens were subjected to dehydration, hydration and redehydration cycles until a constant mass was obtained for each step. Measurements were recorded using a digital balance of 10-4 g precision. For the diametral tensile strength test, specimens were tested in a universal test machine at 0.5 mm/min crosshead speed after 24 h storage in deionized water. Data were evaluated by one-way ANOVA and Tukey's tests (p<0.05). RESULTS: The addition of propolis to GIC clearly increased water sorption compared to pure material. Solubility was material-dependent and was not clearly evident. For the diametral tensile strength test, association with propolis altered negatively only Chemfex. CONCLUSION: It may be concluded that incorporation of propolis to GICs alters some properties in a material-dependent condition.

effect of resin coating technique on shear bond strength

The purpose of this study was to investigate the shear bond strength of metal discs luted to dentine using Resin Coating Technique. In this study the adhesives used were dentine bonding agents, namely, Clearfil SE Bond and Syntac Sprint which were applied one week prior to cementation of Cobalt Chromium [Co-Cr] alloy discs to determine if there was any increase in the bond strengths when later luted using Panavia F and Variolink II. Thus there were four test groups with twelve teeth in each group i.e. Group I:Panavia F, Group II: Clearfil SE Bond I Panavia F, Group III: Variolink Hand Group IV: Syntac Sprint I Variolinkll. The mean shear bond strengths for the four test groups were recorded and the data were compared. It was found that the bond strengths increased significantly with the coating of the dentine bonding agents

Synergic induction of human periodontal ligament fibroblast cell death by nitric oxide and N-methyl-D-aspartic acid receptor antagonist

PURPOSE: Nitric oxide (NO) has been known as an important regulator of osteoblasts and periodontal ligament cell activity. This study was performed to investigate the relationship between NO-mediated cell death of human periodontal ligament fibroblasts (PDLFs) and N-methyl-D-aspartic acid (NMDA) receptor antagonist (+)-5-methyl-10, 11-dihydro-5H-dibenzo[a,d]cyclohepten-5, 10-imine hydrogen maleate (MK801). METHODS: Human PDLFs were treated with various concentrations (0 to 4 mM) of sodium nitroprusside (SNP) with or without 200 microM MK801 in culture media for 16 hours and the cell medium was then removed and replaced by fresh medium containing MTS reagent for cell proliferation assay. Western blot analysis was performed to investigate the effects of SNP on the expression of Bax, cytochrome c, and caspase-3 proteins. The differences for each value among the sample groups were compared using analysis of variance with 95% confidence intervals. RESULTS: In the case of SNP treatment, as a NO donor, cell viability was significantly decreased in a concentration-dependent manner. In addition, a synergistic effect was shown when both SNP and NMDA receptor antagonist was added to the medium. SNP treated PDLFs exhibited a round shape in culture conditions and were dramatically reduced in cell number. SNP treatment also increased levels of apoptotic marker protein, such as Bax and cytochrome c, and reduced caspase-3 in PDLFs. Mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling was activated by treatment of SNP and NMDA receptor antagonist. CONCLUSIONS: These results suggest that excessive production of NO may induce apoptosis and that NMDA receptor may modulate NO-induced apoptosis in PDLFs.

Synergic induction of human periodontal ligament fibroblast cell death by nitric oxide and N-methyl-D-aspartic acid receptor antagonist

PURPOSE: Nitric oxide (NO) has been known as an important regulator of osteoblasts and periodontal ligament cell activity. This study was performed to investigate the relationship between NO-mediated cell death of human periodontal ligament fibroblasts (PDLFs) and N-methyl-D-aspartic acid (NMDA) receptor antagonist (+)-5-methyl-10, 11-dihydro-5H-dibenzo[a,d]cyclohepten-5, 10-imine hydrogen maleate (MK801). METHODS: Human PDLFs were treated with various concentrations (0 to 4 mM) of sodium nitroprusside (SNP) with or without 200 microM MK801 in culture media for 16 hours and the cell medium was then removed and replaced by fresh medium containing MTS reagent for cell proliferation assay. Western blot analysis was performed to investigate the effects of SNP on the expression of Bax, cytochrome c, and caspase-3 proteins. The differences for each value among the sample groups were compared using analysis of variance with 95% confidence intervals. RESULTS: In the case of SNP treatment, as a NO donor, cell viability was significantly decreased in a concentration-dependent manner. In addition, a synergistic effect was shown when both SNP and NMDA receptor antagonist was added to the medium. SNP treated PDLFs exhibited a round shape in culture conditions and were dramatically reduced in cell number. SNP treatment also increased levels of apoptotic marker protein, such as Bax and cytochrome c, and reduced caspase-3 in PDLFs. Mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling was activated by treatment of SNP and NMDA receptor antagonist. CONCLUSIONS: These results suggest that excessive production of NO may induce apoptosis and that NMDA receptor may modulate NO-induced apoptosis in PDLFs.

Pregnancy Outcomes after Peri-conceptional Medication Exposure; 10 Years Experience: Study for Application of Reproductive Toxicity Information / 대한주산의학회잡지

PURPOSE: In Korea, pregnancy termination is frequently reported among women who took medications for an acute or chronic disease during pregnancy, for fear of teratogenic risk. We have previously shown that a service providing evidence-based information is helpful for women who week counseling to make a rational decision regarding their pregnancies. This study aimed to evaluate whether termination of pregnancy based on such perceptions, is justified using the 'DRug Exposure and risk Assessment in Moms' (DREAM) registry. METHODS: The study included 5,032 consenting pregnant women from the clinic and call center at the Korean Motherisk Program, from November 1999 to October 2008. The DREAM registry recorded the pregnancy outcomes (preterm birth, low birth weight, intrauterine fetal death, and congenital anomaly) of 3,328 women. RESULTS: Among women exposed to medications, time of exposure ranged from 3.5-4.6 weeks of gestation. There were 1,308 different drugs prescribed to these women. The drug most frequently prescribed was acetaminophen followed by chlorpheniramine maleate, and pseudoephedrine. There were 4.7% (n=156/3,328) women who underwent a voluntary abortion for fear of birth defects. We compared frequency of birth defects between exposed women and unexposed pregnant women in our institution during gestation. The frequency of major congenital malformations was 2.5% (n=74/2,977) in exposed group and 2.9% (n=75/2,573) in unexposed group (P=0.32). There was no statistically significant difference between exposed and control group in the rate of preterm births, intrauterine fetal death and low-birth weight babies. CONCLUSION: We did not observe increased risk of congenital malformations and adverse pregnancy outcomes in a population of pregnant women exposed to a variety of medications. Therefore these medications are not considered teratogen.

Gender Differences Among Korean Patients With Coronary Spasm

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The gender differences among Korean patients with coronary spasm have not been defined. We thus determined the gender differences among Korean patients with coronary spasm. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: Patients with chest pain and/or syncope who were admitted to Kyungpook National University Hospital between January 2001 and August 2008 were included. Provocation of coronary vasospasm with intracoronary ergonovine maleate was performed when baseline coronary angiography showed no significant stenosis or there was a strong clinical suspicion of coronary spasm. The clinical characteristics were analyzed from 104 consecutive patients (56+/-9 years of age; 21 females) who were diagnosed with coronary spasm. RESULTS: Female patients were younger (52+/-7 vs. 57+/-10 years, p=0.046) with lower rates of smoking and alcohol consumption histories than male patients (19% vs. 65%, p<0.001; and 43% vs. 89%, p<0.001, respectively). The other clinical characteristics were not significantly different, except for the triglyceride levels. CONCLUSION: The majority of patients with coronary spasm were males who were smokers and alcohol consumers. The female patients had lower rates of smoking and alcohol consumption, and they were younger than the male patients. Further studies are needed to investigate the relevance of gender differences in the pathogenesis of coronary spasm.

Toxicity Testing of Restorative Dental Materials Using Brine Shrimp Larvae (Artemia salina)

This study investigated the effect of extracts of different composites, glass ionomer cement (GIC)s and compomers on the viability of brine shrimp larvae. Ethanolic extracts of four dental composites (Z-100; Solitaire 2; Filtek P60 and Synergy), a conventional GIC (Ketac-Fil), a resin-modified glass ionomer cement (Vitremer), two compomers (F2000; Dyract AP), and a flowable compomer (Dyract Flow) were prepared from each material. Following evaporation of the ethanol, the extracts were resuspended in distilled water, which was then used to test the effects on the viability of brine shrimp larvae. For the composites, the extract of Synergy was the least toxic (88 percent viability) followed by the extracts of Solitaire 2, Z100 and P60 (75 percent, 67.5 percent and 50 percent viability, respectively). One-way ANOVA revealed highly significant differences between the resin composite materials (p<0.001). Follow-up comparison between the composite groups by Tukey's pairwise multiple-comparison test (á =0.05) showed that the extract of Synergy was significantly less toxic than the extracts of all the other materials except that of Solitaire 2. The compomers showed 100 percent lethality, while the percentage of viable larvae for the extracts of Ketac-Fil, and Vitremer were 32.3 percent, and 37.0 percent, respectively. One-way ANOVA revealed highly significant differences between the groups of materials (p<0.001). Follow-up comparison between the groups by Tukey's test (á = 0.05) showed that the toxic effect of the extracts of the compomers were significantly greater than that of Ketac-Fil, and Vitremer. The differences in the toxic effects of Vitremer and Ketac-Fil were not statistically significant. In conclusion, the toxicity of composite materials varied according to their chemical composition. Compomers were the most lethal materials to brine shrimp larvae followed by GICs and then composites.

A Case of Reactive Airways Dysfunction Syndrome in a Synthetic Resin Manufacture Factory / 대한산업의학회지

BACKGROUND: Reactive airways dysfunction syndrome (RADS), which represents between 5% and 18% of new-onset, work-related asthma, remains underreported in spite of increasing reports of occupational asthma cases through occupational asthma surveillance in Korea. We report a 61-year-old male who developed RADS after exposure to a high level of toxic gases from a workplace accident. CASE: The patient who had worked for 21 years at a PVC manufacture factory and had retained good health until Aug 22, 2007, when he was exposed to PVC (polyvinyl chloride), DEHP (Di (2-Ethylhexyl) Phthalate), dibutyl tin maleate and epoxidized soybean oil gases from a heated mixer. Within several minutes of exposure, he developed coughing, rhinorrhea, dyspnea and wheezing. Pulmonary function tests (PFTs) showed an FVC of 3.81 L(82% of predicted), FEV1 of 1.63 L/s (50% of predicted), FEV1/FVC% of 43 %, and FEV1 of 1.80 L/s that increased by 170 ml and 10.4% in response to bronchodilator. After 7 months of treatment with inhaled steroids and bronchodilators, repeat PFTs showed an FVC of 6.56 L(143.5% of predicted), FEV1 of 3.21 L(99.3% of predicted), and FEV1/FVC% of 48.9%. A methacholine challenge test was negative at a concentration of 25 mg/ml. CONCLUSION: RADS occurred due to exposure to raw material vapors or their thermal decomposition products.

Microhardness and fluoride release of restorative materials in different storage media

This study evaluated the surface microhardness and fluoride release of 5 restorative materials - Ketac-Fil Plus, Vitremer, Fuji II LC, Freedom and Fluorofil - in two storage media: distilled/deionized water and a pH-cycling (pH 4.6). Twelve specimens of each material, were fabricated and the initial surface microhardness (ISM) was determined in a Shimadzu HMV-2000 microhardness tester (static load Knoop). The specimens were submitted to 6- or 18-h cycles in the tested media. The solutions were refreshed at the end of each cycle. All solutions were stored for further analysis. After 15-day storage, the final surface microhardness (FSM) and fluoride release were measured. Fluoride dose was measured with a fluoride-specific electrode (Orion 9609-BN) and digital ion analyzer (Orion 720 A). The variables ISM, FSM and fluoride release were analyzed statistically by analysis of variance and Tukey's test (p<0.05). There was significant difference in FSM between the storage media for Vitremer (pH 4.6 = 40.2 ± 1.5; water = 42.6 ± 1.4), Ketac-Fil Plus (pH 4.6 = 73.4 ± 2.7; water = 58.2 ± 1.3) and Fluorofil (pH 4.6 = 44.3 ± 1.8; water = 38.4 ± 1.0). Ketac-Fil Plus (9.9 ± 18.0) and Fluorofil (4.4 ± 1.3) presented higher fluoride release in water, whereas Vitremer (7.4 ± 7.1), Fuji II LC (5.7 ± 4.7) and Freedom (2.1 ± 1.7) had higher fluoride release at pH 4.6. Microhardness and fluoride release of the tested restorative materials varied according to the storage medium.

Este estudo avaliou as propriedades de microdureza de superfície e liberação de flúor de 5 materiais restauradores (Ketac-Fil Plus, Vitremer, Fuji II LC, Freedom e Fluorofil) em dois meios de imersão: água destilada/deionizada e modelo de ciclagem de pH (4,6). Doze corpos-de-prova de cada material foram confeccionados e tiveram a microdureza de superfície inicial (MSI) determinada utilizando o microdurômetro Shimadzu HMV-2000 Micro Hardness Tester (carga estática Knoop). Os corpos-de-prova foram submetidos a ciclos de 6 e 18 h para os dois meios de imersão. A cada final de ciclo as soluções foram substituídas e armazenadas. Após 15 dias de imersão, a microdureza de superfície final (MSF) e a liberação de flúor foram determinadas. A dosagem de flúor foi feita com um eletrodo específico combinado para íon flúor (9609 BN - Orion) e analisador de íons digital (Orion 720 A). As variáveis MSI, MSF e liberação de flúor foram submetidas à análise de variância e teste de Tukey (p<0,05). Houve diferença estatisticamente significante na MSF entre os meios de imersão para o Vitremer (pH 4,6 = 40,2 ± 1,5; água = 42,6 ± 1,4), Ketac-Fil Plus (pH 4,6 = 73,4 ± 2,7; água = 58,2 ± 1,3) e Fluorofil (pH 4,6 = 44,3 ± 1,8; água = 38,4 ± 1,0). O Ketac-Fil Plus (9,9 ± 18,0) e o Fluorofil (4,4 ± 1,3) liberaram mais flúor na água; o Vitremer (7,4 ± 7,1), Fuji II LC (5,7 ± 4,7) e o Freedom (2,1 ± 1,7) no pH 4,6. A microdureza e liberação de flúor dos materiais restauradores estudados variaram de acordo com o meio de imersão.

In vitro antimicrobial efficiency of a mouthwash containing triclosan/gantrez and sodium bicarbonate

Several antiseptic substances have been used as adjuncts to routine mechanical procedures of oral hygiene, based on their antimicrobial effects. The objective of this study was to assess in vitro the antimicrobial efficiency of a mouthwash containing Triclosan/Gantrez and sodium bicarbonate in comparison to both positive and negative controls. Standard strain samples of Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Actinomyces viscosus and Bacillus subtilis were used. Samples of Streptococcus mutans and Gram-negative bacilli were collected from 20 volunteers (10 with a clinically healthy periodontium and 10 presenting biofilm-associated gingivitis). Evaluation of the antimicrobial activity was performed by determining the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC). The results indicated that the test solution inhibited the growth of both Gram-negative and Gram-positive microorganisms from the volunteers’ saliva as well as that of the standard strains at the MIC dilution of 1:20, whereas the MIC dilution of 0.12 percent chlorhexidine against the same bacteria was 1:80. Thus, even though the tested mouthrinse solution presented an in-vitro antimicrobial activity superior to that of a placebo, it was inferior to that of chlorhexidine.

Diversas substâncias antisépticas têm sido utilizadas como adjuntos aos procedimentos mecânicos rotineiros de higiene oral, com base em seus efeitos antimicrobianos. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar, in vitro, a eficiência antimicrobiana de um enxaguatório bucal contendo Triclosan/Gantrez e bicarbonato de sódio, em comparação a controles positivos e negativos. Linhagens padrão de Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Actinomyces viscosus e Bacillus subtilis foram utilizadas. Amostras de Streptococcus mutans e Bacilos Gram-negativos foram coletadas de 20 voluntários (10 com um periodonto clinicamente saudável e 10 com gengivite associada à presença de biofilme). A avaliação da atividade antimicrobiana foi realizada pela determinação da Concentração Inibitória Mínima (CIM). Os resultados mostraram que a solução teste inibiu o crescimento de microrganismos Gram-negativos e Gram-positivos da saliva dos voluntários, bem como das linhagens padrão na CIM de 1:20, enquanto que a CIM da diluição de clorexidina 0.12 por cento contra as mesmas bactérias foi de 1:80. Desta forma, apesar de o enxaguatório bucal testado apresentar atividade antimicrobiana in vitro superior à do placebo, esta foi inferior à da Clorexidina.

Experimental study of compomer sealant with non-rinse conditioner used on permanent molar / 华西口腔医学杂志

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To compare the microleakage of compomer sealant with non-rinse conditioner and resin sealant with phosphoric acid (35%) by dye test and scanning electron microscope (SEM) observation.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>16 extracted third permanent molars were divided into 4 groups: Group I, non-rinse conditioner (NRC) + Prime & Bond NT + Dyract seal; Group II, phosphoric acid (35%) + Concise sealant; Group III, phosphoric acid (35%) + Dyract seal; Group IV, NRC + Prime & Bond NT + Concise sealant. The teeth were then coated with nail polish, placed in a 50% AgNO3 dye for 18 hours, and sectioned with a diamond saw. SEM observation was performed to evaluate microleakage in the teeth.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>Silver nitrate penetration was found in each group. The percentage of microleakage in group I was higher than that in group II, and group IV was higher than that in group II (P < 0.01). The percentage of microleakage of resin sealant with phosphoric acid was lower than that in compomer sealant with NRC (P < 0.01). On SEM observation, resin tags and few gaps were found in groups with phosphoric acid. Some gaps and bubbles were found at the bottom of the fissures, particularly in the narrow fissures because of the failure of sealant penetration.</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>Resin sealant used with phosphoric acid was better than compomer sealant with NRC on microleakage.</p>

Biophysical mechanism-mediated time-dependent effect on sperm of human and monkey vas implanted polyelectrolyte contraceptive / 亚洲男科学杂志(英文版)

<p><b>AIM</b>To determine the short and long-term morphological effects on sperm as induced by intra-vas alteration of pH and electrical charge.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>Desired biophysical influences were obtained by injection of reversible inhibition of sperm under guidance (RISUG) into the lumen of the vas deferens of human subjects and the monkey. RISUG is a polyelectrolyte hydrogel complex of styrene maleic anhydride (SMA) and dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) which generates an electrostatic charge and also lowers in a near space of pH domain. The morphology of sperm was examined by light microscopy, scanning and transmission electron microscopy. Human study enabled semen collection by masturbation as early as 3 h after injection and studies extended up to 6 months. In the monkey, on vas excision after RISUG implantation, sperm characteristics were examined in serial sections.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>Semenology in clinical studies and histological data of the monkey showed a time-sequenced sperm plasma membrane, tail mitochondria and nuclear decondensation alterations in sperm structural components, which beared marked similarity to changes in the sperm head and tail during capacitation and entry into the ovum.</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>The findings provide a means of causing such changes in the sperm that inhibit the fertilizing ability before the nucleus is affected. Therefore achieving non-obstructive vas-based contraception, without genotoxic or teratogenic effects caused by infertile sperm passing into the semen, is feasible.</p>

Studies on chemical constituents in flower of Abelmoschus manihot / 中国中药杂志

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To study the chemical constituents of Abelmoschus manihot.</p><p><b>METHOD</b>Chromatographic methods were used to isolate compounds from A. manihot, and spectroscopic methods were used to identify the structures.</p><p><b>RESULT</b>Thirteen compounds, myricetin (1), cannabiscitrin (2), myricetin-3-O-beta-D-glucopyranoside (3), glycerolmonopalmitate (4), 2, 4-dihydroxy benzoic acid (5), guanosine (6), adenosine (7), maleic acid (8), heptatriacontanoic acid (9), 1-triacontanol (10) , tetracosane (11), beta-sitosterol (12), beta-sitosterol-3-O-beta-D-glucoside (13) were obtained.</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>2-11 were obtained from the genus for the first time.</p>

Perspectives of contraceptive choices for men.

Apart from condoms and vasectomy, which have several limitations of their own, no other methods of contraception are available to men. Various chemical, hormonal, vas based and herbal contraceptives have been examined and few of them have reached the stage of clinical testing. Promising leads have been obtained from testosterone buciclate/undecanoate, alone or in combination with levonorgestrel butanoate or cyproterone acetate, RISUG, an injectable intravasal contraceptive and a few herbal products, particularly the seed products of Carica papaya. It is feasible that an ideal male contraceptive, that meets out all the essential criteria will be made available to the community in the near future.

Visual evaluation of in vitro cariostatic effect of restorative materials associated with dentifrices

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar, in vitro, o efeito cariostático de 6 materiais restauradores contendo ou não flúor (Fuji II LC, F-2000, Degufil Mineral, Sure Fil and Z-250) associados à aplicação de dentifrícios (fluoretado e não-fluoretado; Sensodyne Fórmula Original and Sensodyne Sodium Bicarbonate) em esmalte dental humano. Cavidades classe V foram preparadas no esmalte de 240 fragmentos dentais, aleatoriamente divididos em 12 grupos (6 materiais e 2 dentifrícios). Após serem restauradas as cavidades, os fragmentos foram submetidos a ciclos térmicos e de desmineralização e remineralização, simulando um alto desafio cariogênico. Sobre os fragmentos restaurados, ainda, foram aplicados dentifrícios contendo ou não flúor, 5 min por dia. As diferenças no desenvolvimento de lesões experimentais de cárie adjacente às restaurações foram avaliadas por 5 examinadores calibrados, através de inspeção visual, atribuindo-se escores de 0 a 3. Os resultados foram avaliados pelo teste de Kruskal-Wallis seguido pelo teste de comparações múltiplas (a=0,05). Quando associados ao dentifrício fluoretado, os materiais restauradores não diferiram entre si em relação ao potencial cariostático (p>0,05). Quando os materiais foram utilizados em associação com o dentifrício não-fluoretado o Ketac-Fil apresentou o maior potencial cariostático, seguido pelo Fuji II LC e pelos demais materiais. O Ketac-Fil foi o único material que não diferiu significativamente quando associado com o dentifrício com ou sem flúor. Sob as condições experimentais do estudo, a associação dos materiais restauradores ao dentifrício fluoretado resultou em uma maior ação cariostática, exceto para o cimento de ionômero de vidro convencional, que não diferiu com a aplicação dos dentifrícios.