Preparation and properties of silica/hydroxyapatite whiskers porous ceramics scaffold / 中国修复重建外科杂志

OBJECTIVE@#To investigate the preparation and properties of the novel silica (SiO 2)/hydroxyapatite (HAP) whiskers porous ceramics scaffold.@*METHODS@#The HAP whiskers were modified by the SiO 2 microspheres using the Stöber method. Three types of SiO 2/HAP whiskers were fabricated under different factors (for the No.1 samples, the content of tetraethoxysilane, stirring time, calcination temperature, and soaking time were 10 mL, 12 hours, 560℃, and 0.5 hours, respectively; and in the No.2 samples, those were 15 mL, 24 hours, 650℃, and 2 hours, respectively; while those in the No.3 samples were 20 mL, 48 hours, 750℃, and 4 hours, respectively). The phase and morphology of the self-made HAP whisker and 3 types of SiO 2/HAP whiskers were detected by the X-ray diffraction analysis and scanning electron microscopy. Taken the self-made HAP whisker and 3 types of SiO 2/HAP whiskers as raw materials, various porous ceramic materials were prepared using the mechanical foaming method combined with extrusion molding method, and the low-temperature heat treatment. The pore structure of porous ceramics was observed by scanning electron microscopy. Its porosity and pore size distribution were measured. And further the axial compressive strength was measured, and the biodegradability was detected by simulated body fluid. Cell counting kit 8 method was used to conduct cytotoxicity experiments on the extract of porous ceramics.@*RESULTS@#The SiO 2 microspheres modified HAP whiskers and its porous ceramic materials were prepared successfully, respectively. In the SiO 2/HAP whiskers, the amorphous SiO 2 microspheres with a diameter of 200 nm, uniform distribution and good adhesion were attached to the surface of the whiskers, and the number of microspheres was controllable. The apparent porosity of the porous ceramic scaffold was about 78%, and its pore structure was composed of neatly arranged longitudinal through-holes and a large number of micro/nano through-holes. Compared with HAP whisker porous ceramic, the axial compressive strength of the SiO 2/HAP whisker porous ceramics could reach 1.0 MPa, which increased the strength by nearly 4 times. Among them, the axial compressive strength of the No.2 SiO 2/HAP whisker porous ceramic was the highest. The SiO 2 microspheres attached to the surface of the whiskers could provide sites for the deposition of apatite. With the content of SiO 2 microspheres increased, the deposition rate of apatite accelerated. The cytotoxicity level of the prepared porous ceramics ranged from 0 to 1, without cytotoxicity.@*CONCLUSION@#SiO 2/HAP whisker porous ceramics have good biological activity, high porosity, three-dimensional complex pore structure, good axial compressive strength, and no cytotoxicity, which make it a promising scaffold material for bone tissue engineering.

Ex Vivo Analysis of MTA FLOW® Biomineralization and Push-Out Strength: A Pilot Study / Análisis ex vivo del proceso de biomineralización y resistencia al desplazamiento del MTA FLOW®: Estudio piloto

Abstract: This study evaluated the biomineralization processes and push-out strength of MTA Flow® with radicular dentine in three different consistencies. The push-out test was performed on an ex vivo model, using 2mm thick dentin discs from the middle third of the root with standardized cavities of 1.5 mm. Samples were filled with MTA-Angelus (Angelus Dental, Brazil), Biodentine (Septodont, France), MTA Flow® Putty (Ultradent, USA), MTA Flow® Thick or MTA Flow® Thin. The samples were divided into 3 groups: subgroup 1 (n=5), analysis of the biomineralization process; 2 (n=20), evaluation of the bonding strength and push-out resistance; and 3 (n=5), evaluation of the cement/ dentin interface. The samples filled with Biodentine had a higher precipitation of carbonate apatite. However, there was no significant difference between MTA-Angelus, MTA Flow® Putty, or Thick (p=0.0536), but there was a significant difference in the Thin group (P<0.05). The samples with Biodentine displayed the greatest release of calcium ions. The formation of a partially carbonated intermediate apatite layer was observed in all groups. Zones of biomineralization were observed at the interface but were not continuous. After 72 hours, a significant difference was found between the Biodentine and MTA Flow® Thin groups (p=0.0090) in the push-out test. The samples submerged in phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) for 15 days showed a significant difference between all groups and MTA Flow® Thin (p=0.0147). Putty or Thick consistencies presented a similar bonding strength to MTA-Angelus and Biodentine. MTA Flow® Putty and Thick consistencies show a good adaptation to dentin, similar to MTA-Angelus. However, the thickness of the interface was lower compared to that of Biodentine. MTA Flow® Thin, despite their tubular infiltration, results in gaps and a defective peripheral seal.Therefore, MTA Flow®, in Putty or Thick consistencies, presents a biomineralization process and push-out strength similar to MTA Angelus and Biodentine, however, both characteristics decreases considerably in Thin consistency.

Resumen: El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar, en un modelo ex vivo, el proceso de biomineralización y fuerza de adhesión del MTA Flow® en sus tres diferentes consistencias por medio de la prueba de resistencia al desplazamiento (Push-out). Se utilizaron discos de dentina de 2mm de espesor del tercio medio radicular con cavidades estandarizadas de 1.5mm de diámetro, las cuales se obturaron con diferentes materiales entre ellos: MTA Angelus (Angelus Dental, Brasil), Biodentine (Septodont, Francia), MTA Flow® Consistencia Putty (Ultradent, E.E.U.U), MTA Flow® Consistencia Thick (Ultradent, E.E.U.U) y MTA Flow® Consistencia Thin (Ultradent, E.E.U.U). Las muestras se sometieron al proceso de biomineralización y a pruebas de Push-out. Las muestras obturadas con Biodentine promovieron una mayor precipitación de apatita carbonatada, sin embargo, no se presentó diferencia estadística significativa con respecto al MTA Angelus, MTA Flow® Putty ni Thick (p=0.0536). No obstante, si presentó una diferencia significativa con respecto al grupo de MTA Flow® consistencia Thin (P<0.05). Las muestras con Biodentine presentaron la mayor liberación de iones calcio. De acuerdo a las pruebas de resistencia al desplazamiento, a las 72 horas post-obturación, solamente se encontró diferencia significativa entre las muestras obturadas con Biodentine y las correspondientes al MTA Flow consistencia Thin (p=0.0090), sin embargo las muestras sumergidas 15 días en PBS presentaron diferencia significativa entre todos los grupos con respecto al MTA Flow Thin (p=0.0147). En general se observaron zonas de biomineralización en la interface, sin embargo, no fueron continuas. Se concluye que el MTA Flow en consistencia Putty o Thick presenta un proceso de biomineralización y una resistencia al desplazamiento similar al MTA Angelus y al Biodentine, sin embargo, esta última disminuye considerablemente en presentación Thin.

The effect of ionizing radiation on properties of fluoride-releasing restorative materials

Abstract The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of ionizing radiation from high energy X-ray on fluoride release, surface roughness, flexural strength, and surface chemical composition of the materials. The study groups comprised five different restorative materials: Beautifil II, GCP Glass Fill, Amalgomer CR, Zirconomer, and Fuji IX GP. Twenty disk-shaped specimens (8x2 mm) for fluoride release and 20 bar-shaped specimens (25 x 2x 2 mm) for flexural strength were prepared from each material. Each material group was divided into two subgroups: irradiated (IR) and non-irradiated (Non-IR). The specimens from IR groups were irradiated with 1.8 Gy/day for 39 days (total IR = 70.2 Gy). The amount of fluoride released into deionized water was measured using a fluoride ion-selective electrode and ion analyzer after 24 hours and on days 2, 3, 7, 15, 21, 28, 35, and 39 (n = 10). The flexural strength was evaluated using the three-point bending test (n = 10). After the period of measurement of fluoride release, seven specimens (n = 7) from each group were randomly selected to evaluate surface roughness using AFM and one specimen was randomly selected for the SEM and EDS analyses. Data were analyzed with two-way ANOVA and Tukey tests (p = 0.05). The irradiation significantly increased fluoride release and surface roughness for Amalgomer CR and Zirconomer groups (p < 0.05). No significant change in flexural strength of the materials was observed after irradiation (p > 0.05). The ionizing radiation altered the amount of fluoride release and surface roughness of only Amalgomer CR and Zirconomer. The effect could be related to the chemical compositions of materials.

Desenvolvimento, caracterização e avaliação in vitro de cimento ósseo à base de nano hidroxiapatitas substituídas com magnésio, estrôncio e zinco / Development, characterization and in vitro evaluation of bone cement based on nano-hydroxyapatites substituted with magnesium, strontium and zinc

A incorporação de íons na estrutura da hidroxiapatita (HA) pode afetar sua estrutura, cristalinidade, solubilidade e citotoxicidade. Dentre os íons presentes na composição da apatita óssea, o magnésio (Mg2+), estrôncio (Sr2+) e zinco (Zn2+) são reconhecidos por promover a angiogênese e osteogênese. Portanto, as HAs substituídas podem apresentar melhor bioatividade, por fornecer íons com potencial de estimular a neoformação óssea nos locais enxertados. Nesse contexto, este estudo descreve a síntese, caracterização e comparação de uma série de nano-hidroxiapatitas (nHAs) substituídas e co-substituídas por Sr2+, Mg2+ ou Zn2+. Em seguida, foi desenvolvido um cimento ósseo à base das HAs com melhores resultados de citotoxicidade, associado ao DCPA, gelatina e quitosana. As nHAs foram caracterizadas físico-quimicamente usando diferentes técnicas. O método de co-precipitação foi eficaz para sintetizar HAs de dimensões nanométricas. Comparado a nHA pura, os difratogramas, espectros de FTIR e parâmetros de rede das nHAs substituídas e co-substituídas exibiram alterações, indicando que a incorporação de cátions resultou em distorções da rede da HA. Os testes de MTT demonstraram que as nHAs sintetizadas não foram citotóxicas, após contato direto com culturas de fibroblastos (L929) e pré-osteoblastos (MC3T3). Os resultados obtidos sugerem que as nHAs co-substituídas por Mg2+/Sr2+ e Zn2+/Sr2+ parecem induzir maior proliferação de células fibroblásticas e osteoblásticas, quando comparado a HA pura e substituída. Os cimentos ósseos desenvolvidos apresentaram capacidade de auto-endurecimento e resistência à lavagem. Além de possuírem alta molhabilidade e um perfil de liberação de íons Ca2+, Sr2+, Mg2+ e Zn2+, que está dentro das doses indicadas para estimular a proliferação de osteoblastos. Os cimentos exibiram excelente biocompatibilidade in vitro em culturas de células fibroblásticas, endoteliais e osteosblásticas. Os cimentos contendo nHAs co-substituídas por Mg2+/Sr2+ exibiram os melhores resultados de viabilidade celular. Após 24 horas de contato indireto com cultura de células fibroblásticas L929, o crescimento celular do grupo C2 foi maior que de todos os grupos em estudo (P < 0,01). Em cultura de células endoteliais EA.hy926, o percentual de células viáveis do grupo C3 foi significativamente maior que de todos os outros grupos, após 24 horas (p < 0,001). A citotoxicidade indireta em cultura de células pré-osteoblásticas MC3T3 revelou que após 48 horas, o grupo C3 apresentou maior viabilidade celular que todos os grupos em estudo (p < 0,01). O teste de formação de tubo sugere que todos os cimentos desenvolvidos possuem potencial angiogênico, sendo que os cimentos contendo nHAs co-substituídas por Zn2+/Sr2+ exibiram resultados significativamente superiores (p < 0,001). Apesar de ser necessário um maior número de testes de biocompatibilidade; a incorporação de íons na rede cristalina das nHAs, que são reconhecidos por afetar a angiogênese e a osteogênese, parece ter resultado no desenvolvimento de cimentos ósseos com potencial para promover a regeneração óssea.

The incorporation of ions into the HA lattice can affect its structure, crystallinity, solubility and cytotoxicity. From the ions present in the composition of bone apatite, Mg2+, Sr2+ and Zn2+ are recognized for promoting angiogenesis and osteogenesis. The substituted HAs can be present better bioactivity for supplying ions with potential to stimulate bone neoformation in grafted sites. This study described the synthesis, characterization and comparison of a range of substituted and co-substituted nHAs contained Sr2+, Mg2+ or Zn2+. Then, it developed bone cement based on HAs with better cytotoxicity results, associated with DCPA, gelatin and chitosan. The nHAs were physicochemically characterized using different techniques. The co-precipitation method was effective for synthesizing HAs with nanometric dimensions. Compared to pure nHA, the diffractograms, FTIR spectra and lattice parameters of the substituted and co-substituted nHAs showed changes, indicating that the incorporation of cations resulted in distortions of the HA lattice. MTT tests demonstrated that the all synthesized nHAs were not cytotoxic after direct contact with fibroblasts (L929) and pre-osteoblasts (MC3T3) cultures. MTT results suggest that Mg2+/Sr2+ and Zn2+/Sr2+ co-substituted nHAs seem to induce more proliferation of fibroblastic and osteoblastic than pure and Mg2+, Sr2+ and Zn2+ substituted nHAs. Bone cements developed showed self-hardening and washout resistance. Also, they Exhibited high wettability and ion release profile with non-toxic concentrations of Ca2+, Sr2+, Mg2+ and Zn2+, range within indicated doses to stimulate the proliferation of osteoblasts. The cement exhibited excellent in vitro cytocompatibility in fibroblastic, endothelial and osteoblastic cell cultures. Cement containing Mg2+/Sr2+ co-substituted nHAs showed better results of the cell viability. After 24 hours of indirect contact with L929 fibroblast culture, the cell growth in the C2 group was highest than all study groups (P <0.01). In EA.hy926 endothelial culture, the cell viability of the C3 group was significantly highest than all other groups after 24 hours (p <0.001). The indirect cytotoxicity in MC3T3 pre-osteoblastic culture revealed that after 48 hours, the C3 group showed the greatest cell viability than all the study groups (p <0.01). The tube formation assay suggests that all cement have angiogenic potential, being that the cements containing Zn2+ / Sr2+ co-substituted nHAs exhibited significantly better results (p < 0,001). Despite being necessary to perform a more significant number of biocompatibility tests, the incorporation of ions into the nHA lattice, which are recognized for affects angiogenesis and osteogenesis, may have resulted in the development of bone cements with the potential to promoting bone regeneration.

Estudio comparativo de la bioactividad de dos materiales biocerámicos / Comparative Study of the Bioactivity of Two Bioceramic Materials

RESUMEN Los materiales a base de silicato de calcio han demostrado ser bioactivos debido a su capacidad para producir apatita carbonatada biológicamente compatible. El objetivo de este estudio fue analizar la bioactividad de Biodentine™ y MTA Repair HP® en contacto con discos de dentina humana, que se obturaron y dividieron aleatoriamente para formar cuatro grupos: grupo 1 Biodentine™, grupo 2 MTA Repair HP®, grupo control positivo MTA Angelus® y grupo control negativo IRM®, los cuales se incubaron en solución PBS durante 10 días, para posterior análisis por medio de MEB-EDS y Espectroscopía Raman. Los tres materiales a base de silicato de calcio analizados en este estudio demostraron ser bioactivos pues al entrar en contacto con una solución a base de fosfato desencadenaron la precipitación inicial de fosfato de calcio amorfo, que actúa como precursor durante la formación de apatita carbonatada.

ABSTRACT Calcium silicate-based materials have been shown to be bioactive due to their ability to produce biologically compatible carbonated apatite. The objective of this study was to analyze the bioactivity of Biodentine ™ and MTA Repair HP® in contact with human dentine discs, which were sealed and divided randomly to form four groups: group 1 Biodentine™, group 2 MTA Repair HP®, positive control group MTA Angelus® and negative control group IRM®, which were incubated in PBS solution for 10 days, for a subsequent analysis by means of MEB-EDS and Raman spectroscopy. The three calcium-based materials analyzed in this study proved to be bioactive because upon contact with a phosphate-based solution they were triggered at the onset of amorphous calcium phosphate, as the precursor during the formation of carbonated apatite.

Effect of iontophoresis on fluoride uptake in enamel with artificial caries lesion

Abstract: Iontophoresis is a noninvasive technique, based on the application of a constant low-intensity electric current to facilitate the release of a variety of drugs, whether ionized or not, through biological membranes. The objective of this research was to evaluate the effect of iontophoresis using different electric current intensities on the uptake of fluoride in dental enamel with artificial caries lesions. In this in vitro operator-blind experiment, bovine enamel blocks (n = 10/group) with caries-like lesions and predetermined surface hardness were randomized into 6 groups: placebo gel without fluoride applied with a current of 0.8 mA (negative control), 2% NaF gel without application of any current, and 2% NaF gel applied with currents of 0.1, 0.2, 0.4 and 0.8 mA. Cathodic iontophoresis was applied for 4 min. The concentration of loosely bound fluoride (calcium fluoride) and firmly bound fluoride (fluorapatite) was determined. The results were analyzed by the nonparametric Kruskal-Wallis and Dunn tests. Iontophoresis at 0.8 mA, combined with the application of fluoridated gel (2% NaF), increased fluoride uptake in enamel with caries-like lesions, as either calcium fluoride or fluorapatite.

Application of low-crystalline carbonate apatite granules in 2-stage sinus floor augmentation: a prospective clinical trial and histomorphometric evaluation

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to elucidate the efficacy and safety of carbonate apatite (CO₃Ap) granules in 2-stage sinus floor augmentation through the radiographic and histomorphometric assessment of bone biopsy specimens.METHODS: Two-stage sinus floor augmentation was performed on 13 patients with a total of 17 implants. Radiographic assessment using panoramic radiographs was performed immediately after augmentation and was also performed 2 additional times, at 7±2 months and 18±2 months post-augmentation, respectively. Bone biopsy specimens taken from planned implant placement sites underwent micro-computed tomography, after which histological sections were prepared.RESULTS: Postoperative healing of the sinus floor augmentation was uneventful in all cases. The mean preoperative residual bone height was 3.5±1.3 mm, and this was increased to 13.3±1.7 mm by augmentation with the CO₃Ap granules. The mean height of the augmented site had decreased to 10.7±1.9 mm by 7±2 months after augmentation; however, implants with lengths in the range of 6.5 to 11.5 mm could still be placed. The mean height of the augmented site had decreased to 9.6±1.4 mm by 18±2 months post-augmentation. No implant failure or complications were observed. Few inflammatory cells or foreign body giant cells were observed in the bone biopsy specimens. Although there were individual differences in the amount of new bone detected, new bone was observed to be in direct contact with the CO₃Ap granules in all cases, without an intermediate layer of fibrous tissue. The amounts of bone and residual CO₃Ap were 33.8%±15.1% and 15.3%±11.9%, respectively.CONCLUSIONS: In this first demonstration, low-crystalline CO₃Ap granules showed excellent biocompatibility, and bone biopsy showed them to be replaced with bone in humans. CO₃Ap granules are a useful and safe bone substitute for two-stage sinus floor augmentation.

Fluoride release and uptake in enhanced bioactivity glass ionomer cement ("glass carbomer™") compared with conventional and resin-modified glass ionomer cements

Abstract Objectives To study the fluoride uptake and release properties of glass carbomer dental cements and compare them with those of conventional and resin-modified glass ionomers. Materials and Methods Three materials were used, as follows: glass carbomer (Glass Fill), conventional glass ionomer (Chemfil Rock) and resin-modified glass ionomer (Fuji II LC). For all materials, specimens (sets of six) were matured at room temperature for time intervals of 10 minutes, 1 hour and 6 weeks, then exposed to either deionized water or sodium fluoride solution (1000 ppm in fluoride) for 24 hours. Following this, all specimens were placed in deionized water for additional 24 hours and fluoride release was measured. Results Storage in water led to increase in mass in all cases due to water uptake, with uptake varying with maturing time and material type. Storage in aqueous NaF led to variable results. Glass carbomer showed mass losses at all maturing times, whereas the conventional glass ionomer gained mass for some maturing times, and the resin-modified glass ionomer gained mass for all maturing times. All materials released fluoride into deionized water, with glass carbomer showing the highest release. For both types of glass ionomer, uptake of fluoride led to enhanced fluoride release into deionized water. In contrast, uptake by glass carbomer did not lead to increased fluoride release, although it was substantially higher than the uptake by both types of glass ionomer. Conclusions Glass carbomer resembles glass ionomer cements in its fluoride uptake behavior but differs when considering that its fluoride uptake does not lead to increased fluoride release.

Etiological factors for calculus-associated seminal vesiculitis: Analysis of calculus composition in 6 cases / 中华男科学杂志

Objective@#To explore the etiological factors for calculus-associated seminal vesiculitis by analyzing the composition of seminal vesicle calculus samples.@*METHODS@#This retrospective study included 6 cases of recurrent hematospermia diagnosed with seminal vesicle calculus by non-contrast pelvic CT. The patients were aged 28 to 69 years, with persistent or recurrent hematospermia for 3 months to 6 years, and 5 of them with a history of acute urethritis. All the patients underwent seminal vesiculoscopy, which confirmed calculus-associated seminal vesiculitis. The calculus samples were obtained with a spiral dislodge and their composition was determined with a second-generation infrared calculus composition analyzer. The patients were followed up for 2 to 12 weeks postoperatively, during which non-contrast pelvic CT was employed for observation of recurrent calculus in the reproductive tract.@*RESULTS@#Pelvic CT scanning indicated recurrence of seminal vesicle calculus in 3 cases at 12 weeks postoperatively, of which, 2 were accompanied with recurrent hematospermia, both observed at 4 weeks after operation. As for the composition of the calculus, the infrared calculus composition analyzer revealed struvite (magnesium ammonium phosphate hexahydrate) in 5 cases and a mixture of calcium oxalate dihydrate, calcium oxalate monohydrate, and carbonate apatite in the other one.@*CONCLUSIONS@#Seminal vesicle calculi are most commonly composed of struvite, and infection is the main etiological factor for calculus-associated seminal vesiculitis.

Enhanced bioactive properties of BiodentineTM modified with bioactive glass nanoparticles

Abstract Objective To prepare nanocomposite cements based on the incorporation of bioactive glass nanoparticles (nBGs) into BiodentineTM (BD, Septodent, Saint-Maur-des-Fosses Cedex, France) and to assess their bioactive properties. Material and Methods nBGs were synthesised by the sol-gel method. BD nanocomposites (nBG/BD) were prepared with 1 and 2% nBGs by weight; unmodified BD and GC Fuji IX (GIC, GC Corporation, Tokyo, Japan) were used as references. The in vitro ability of the materials to induce apatite formation was assessed in SBF by X-ray diffraction (XRD), attenuated total reflectance with Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) with energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis. BD and nBG/BD were also applied to dentine discs for seven days; the morphology and elemental composition of the dentine-cement interface were analysed using SEM-EDX. Results One and two percent nBG/BD composites accelerated apatite formation on the disc surface after short-term immersion in SBF. Apatite was detected on the nBG/BD nanocomposites after three days, compared with seven days for unmodified BD. No apatite formation was detected on the GIC surface. nBG/BD formed a wider interfacial area with dentine than BD, showing blockage of dentine tubules and Si incorporation, suggesting intratubular precipitation. Conclusions The incorporation of nBGs into BD improves its in vitro bioactivity, accelerating the formation of a crystalline apatite layer on its surface after immersion in SBF. Compared with unmodified BD, nBG/BD showed a wider interfacial area with greater Si incorporation and intratubular precipitation of deposits when immersed in SBF.

Evaluation of low-dose dual energy computed tomography for in vivo assessment of renal/ureteric calculus composition

PURPOSE: This study aimed to assess the accuracy of low-dose dual-energy computed tomography (DECT) in predicting the composition of urinary calculi. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 52 patients with urinary calculi were scanned with a 128-slice dual-source DECT scanner by use of a low-dose protocol. Dual-energy (DE) ratio, weighted average Hounsfield unit (HU) of calculi, radiation dose, and image noise levels were recorded. Two radiologists independently rated study quality. Stone composition was assessed after extraction by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIRS). Analysis of variance was used to determine if the differences in HU values and DE ratios between the various calculus groups were significant. Threshold cutoff values to classify the calculi into separate groups were identified by receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. RESULTS: A total of 137 calculi were detected. FTIRS analysis differentiated the calculi into five groups: uric acid (n=17), struvite (n=3), calcium oxalate monohydrate and dihydrate (COM-COD, n=84), calcium oxalate monohydrate (COM, n=28), and carbonate apatite (n=5). The HU value could differentiate only uric acid calculi from calcified calculi (p80% sensitivity and specificity to differentiate them. The DE ratio could not differentiate COM from COM-COD calculi. No study was rated poor in quality by either of the observers. The mean radiation dose was 1.8 mSv. CONCLUSIONS: Low-dose DECT accurately predicts urinary calculus composition in vivo while simultaneously reducing radiation exposure without compromising study quality.

Una década de monitoreo de plomo en sangre en niños escolares del área metropolitana de Monterrey, NL / A decade of lead monitoring in schoolchildren in the metropolitan area of Monterrey NL, Mexico

Objetivo. Establecer las concentraciones de plomo (Pb) en sangre en niños escolares de 1998 y 2008, así como su asociación con factores de riesgo. Material y métodos. Se llevó a cabo un monitoreo de Pb en sangre de niños de entre 6 y 12 años que cursan educación primaria en 17 escuelas diferentes, ubicadas en distintas zonas del área metropolitana de Monterrey, de 1998 a 2008. Resultados. Se obtuvieron niveles séricos de 9.6 ± 3.0 (µg/dL rango de 3.18 a 20.88) en 1998 y de 4.5±4.8 µg/dL (rango de 3.3 a 53.7) en 2008, lo que mostró una disminución de 2.1 veces en nivel de Pb (p<0.01). Conclusiones. La reducción de los niveles séricos de Pb demuestran los mejores controles ambientales e industriales y probablemente el éxito de retirar el Pb de la gasolina durante los años noventa.

Objective. To establish the blood lead concentration and associated risk factors in schoolchildren during 1998 and 2008. Materials and methods. A blood lead screening was conducted in schoolchildren of 6-12 years of age, enrolled in 17 elementary schools of the metropolitan area of Monterrey, México, during 1998 and 2008. Results. The mean blood lead level were 9.6 ± 3.0 (µg/dL range of 3.18 to 20.88) in 1998 and 4.5±4.8 µg/dL (range of 3.3 to 53.7) showing a 2.1-times reduction in blood lead levels (p<0.01). Conclusions. This reduction in blood lead levels demonstrate environmental and industrial control improvements and the benefits of fading out the leaded gasoline during the 1990's.

Enamel crystals of mice susceptible or resistant to dental fluorosis: an AFM study

Objective: This study aimed to assess the overall apatite crystals profile in the enamel matrix of mice susceptible (A/J strain) or resistant (129P3/J strain) to dental fluorosis through analyses by atomic force microscopy (AFM). Material and Methods: Samples from the enamel matrix in the early stages of secretion and maturation were obtained from the incisors of mice from both strains. All detectable traces of matrix protein were removed from the samples by a sequential extraction procedure. The purified crystals (n=13 per strain) were analyzed qualitatively in the AFM. Surface roughness profile (Ra) was measured. Results: The mean (±SD) Ra of the crystals of A/J strain (0.58±0.15 nm) was lower than the one found for the 129P3/J strain (0.66±0.21 nm) but the difference did not reach statistical significance (t=1.187, p=0.247). Crystals of the 129P3/J strain (70.42±6.79 nm) were found to be significantly narrower (t=4.013, p=0.0013) than the same parameter measured for the A/J strain (90.42±15.86 nm). Conclusion: enamel crystals of the 129P3/J strain are narrower, which is indicative of slower crystal growth and could interfere in the occurrence of dental fluorosis. .

Comparative studies on the material performances of natural bone-like apatite from different bone sources / 生物医学工程学杂志

The compressive strength of the original bone tissue was tested, based on the raw human thigh bone, bovine bone, pig bone and goat bone. The four different bone-like apatites were prepared by calcining the raw bones at 800 degrees C for 8 hours to remove organic components. The comparison of composition and structure of bone-like apatite from different bone sources was carried out with a composition and structure test. The results indicated that the compressive strength of goat bone was similar to that of human thigh bone, reached (135.00 +/- 7.84) MPa; Infrared spectrum (IR), X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis results showed that the bone-like apatite from goat bone was much closer to the structure and phase composition of bone-like apatite of human bones. Inductively Coupled Plasma (ICP) test results showed that the content of trace elements of bone-like apatite from goat bone was closer to that of apatite of human bone. Energy Dispersive Spectrometer (EDS) results showed that the Ca/P value of bone-like apatite from goat bone was also close to that of human bone, ranged to 1.73 +/- 0.033. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) patterns indicated that the macrographs of the apatite from human bone and that of goat bone were much similar to each other. Considering all the results above, it could be concluded that the goat bone-like apatite is much similar to that of human bone. It can be used as a potential natural bioceramic material in terms of material properties.

Biomimetic mineralization of a single-layer reconstituted type I collagen model induced by sodium tripolyphosphate and polyacrylic acid / 中华口腔医学杂志

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To investigate the functions of sodium tripolyphosphate (STTP) and polyacrylic acid (PAA) in the process of collagen biomimetic mineralization. This would allow future applications to other collagen matrices such as bone collagen or 3-D collagen scaffolds.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>Glass cover slips and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) grids were coated with reconstituted typeIcollagen fibrils. Mineralization of the reconstituted collagens was demonstrated with scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and TEM using a Portland cement-containing resin composite and a phosphate-containing fluid in the presence of PAA and STTP. The rest were immersed in a biomimetic remineralization medium without PAA and/or STTP (control).</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>In the presence of PAA and STTP in the mineralization medium, intrafibrillar mineralization based on the non-classical crystallisation pathway could be identified. Mineral phases were evident within the collagen fibrils as early as 12 h after the initially-formed amorphous calcium phosphate nanoprecursors were transformed into apatite nanocrystals. Collagens at 72 h were heavily mineralized with periodically arranged intrafibrillar apatite platelets. Conversely, only large mineral spheres with no preferred association with collagen fibrils were observed in the absence of biomimetic analogues in the medium (control).</p><p><b>CONCLUSIONS</b>Intrafibrillar apatite deposition can be achieved via biomimetic mineralization system containing PAA and STTP when amorphous calcium phosphate precursor is stabilized.</p>

Use of laser fluorescence in dental caries diagnosis: a fluorescence x biomolecular vibrational spectroscopic comparative study

The aim of this work was to verify the existence of correlation between Raman spectroscopy readings of phosphate apatite (∼960 cm−1), fluoridated apatite (∼575 cm−1) and organic matrix (∼1450 cm−1) levels and Diagnodent® readings at different stages of dental caries in extracted human teeth. The mean peak value of fluorescence in the carious area was recorded and teeth were divided in enamel caries, dentin caries and sound dental structure. After fluorescence readings, Raman spectroscopy was carried out on the same sites. The results showed significant difference (ANOVA, p<0.05) between the fluorescence readings for enamel (16.4 ± 2.3) and dentin (57.6 ± 23.7) on carious teeth. Raman peaks of enamel and dentin revealed that ∼575 and ∼960 cm−1 peaks were more intense in enamel caries. There was significant negative correlation (p<0.05) between the ∼575 and ∼960 cm−1 peaks and dentin caries. It may be concluded that the higher the fluorescence detected by Diagnodent the lower the peaks of phosphate apatite and fluoridated apatite. As the early diagnosis of caries is directly related to the identification of changes in the inorganic tooth components, Raman spectroscopy was more sensitive to variations of these components than Diagnodent.

O objetivo desse estudo foi verificar por meio da espectroscopia Raman, a existência de correlação entre os níveis de apatita fosfatada (∼960 cm−1), apatita fluoretada (∼575 cm−1) e matriz orgânica (∼1450 cm−1) e as leituras do Diagnodent® em diferentes estágios de cárie dental em dentes humanos extraídos. O valor médio do pico de fluorescência na área da cárie foi anotado e os dentes divididos em cárie de esmalte, dentina e dente hígido. Após as leituras de fluorescência, foi realizada a espectroscopia Raman nos mesmos sítios. Os resultados mostraram diferença significante (ANOVA p<0,05) entre as leituras de fluorescência para esmalte (16,4 ± 2,3) e dentina (57,6 ± 23,7) nos dentes cariados. Os picos Raman para esmalte e dentina evidenciaram que os picos ∼575 e ∼960 cm−1 foram mais intensos em cárie de esmalte. Houve correlação negativa e significante (p<0,05) entre os picos ∼575 e ∼960 cm−1 e cárie de dentina. Pode-se concluir que quanto maior a fluorescência detectada pelo Diagnodent menor o pico da apatita fosfatada e fluoretada. O diagnóstico precoce da cárie está diretamente relacionado com a identificação de mudanças nos componentes inorgânicos do dente, assim a espectroscopia Raman foi mais sensível para variações desses componentes quando comparada ao Diagnodent.

Pediatric Urolithiasis: Our 22-year Experience at a Single Center

PURPOSE: Pediatric urolithiasis is uncommon in children but is a cause of significant morbidity and damage to the kidney. Although much information on adult urolithiasis is available in the literature, large studies on the pediatric population are still scarce. In this report, we review our experience with pediatric urolithiasis over 22 years at a tertiary referral center. METHOD: We retrospectively reviewed the records of children with newly diagnosed urolithiasis between January 1991 and May 2013. We assessed the age, sex, family history, initial symptoms, location of stones, underlying cause, stone analysis, treatment, and recurrence among the patients. RESULTS: In total, 137 patients (96 male, 41 female) were assessed. The age range was 0-17 years (mean age, 6.0 years). Forty-three (31%) children were aged <1 year, and 37% (16/43) had a history of intensive care unit (ICU) admission. Thirteen patients (9.5%) had a family history of stones. The most common symptoms at presentation among the patients were gross hematuria (56/137, 41%) and flank or abdominal pain (46/137, 34%). The stones were located in the kidney (85/137, 62%), ureter (29/137, 21%), bladder (2/137, 1.4%), and multiple locations (20/137, 15 %). Congenital abnormalities of the genitourinary (G-U) tract, with or without metabolic abnormality, or urinary tract infection (UTI) was detected in 26 children (19%). Ninety-one patients (66%) underwent metabolic examination, and 38% of these patients exhibited an abnormality. UTI, with or without abnormalities of the G-U tract, or metabolic abnormality was detected in 26 children (19%). Of the 35 stones analyzed, the majority were calcium stones (20/35, 57%), followed by infected stones (5/35, 14%), uric acid stones (4/35, 11%), carbonate apatite stones (3/35, 7%), cystine stones (2/35, 6%), and phosphate stones (1/35, 3%). Five patients (4%) required open procedures, with or without non-open procedures, whereas 77 patients (56%) were managed conservatively; the remaining 55 patients (40%) received some other form of intervention. Eighteen patients (13%) had stone recurrence during the follow-up period. CONCLUSIONS: Pediatric urolithiasis is commonly associated with abnormalities of the G-U tract and/or metabolic disorders and/or UTI. Half of the patients will pass their stones spontaneously, and all the techniques of minimally invasive surgery are applicable in the treatment of children with stones. As the recurrence rates are high among this population, long-term follow-up is recommended and the complete clearance of stones is important.

Apatite-forming ability of pure titanium implant after micro-arc oxidation treatment / 南方医科大学学报

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To investigate the apatite forming ability of pure titanium implant after micro-arc oxidation treatment in simulated body fluid (SBF) and obtain implants with calcium phosphate (Ca-P) layers.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>The implants were immersed in (SBF) after micro-arc oxidation treatment for different time lengths, and their apatite forming ability and the morphology and constituents of the Ca-P layers formed on the sample surface were analyzed using X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and energy dispersive electron probe.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>After immersion in SBF, large quantities of Ca-P layers were induced on the surface of the samples. The Ca-P layers were composed of octacalcium phosphate and carbonated hydroxyapatite, and the crystals showed a plate-like morphology with an oriented growth.</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>The implants with micro-arc oxidation treatment show good apatite forming ability on the surface with rich calcium and phosphorus elements. The formed layers are composed of bone-like apatite including octacalcium phosphate and carbonated hydroxyapatite.</p>

Color agreement between nanofluorapatite ceramic discs associated with try-in pastes and with resin cements

The aim of this study was to evaluate the in vitro color agreement between nanofluorapatite ceramic discs (e.max Ceram / Ivoclar Vivadent / A2) associated with try-in pastes and those bonded with resin cements (Vitique / DMG/ try-in shade A2½ and cement shade A2½, Variolink II / Ivoclar Vivadent / try-in shade A1 and cement shade A1, and Choice 2 / Bisco / try-in shade A2 and cement shade A2), and to evaluate the shade stability of the discs bonded with resin cements. The shades of composite resin discs (Lliss / FGM / A2) and nanofluorapatite ceramic discs with try-in pastes or cements were evaluated according to the Vita Classical shade guide by a digital spectrophotometer (Micro EspectroShade, MHT) immediately after placing the try-in pastes or resin cements between composite resin discs and ceramic discs. Other evaluations were performed at 2, 5, and 6 day intervals after cementation with the resin cements. All ceramic discs that received try-in pastes presented an A2 shade. There was no statistical difference in the shade of the ceramic specimens fixed with different cements at the different intervals, as evaluated by the Friedman test (p > 0.05). Two try-in pastes presented shade compatibility with those recommended by the manufacturers. There was no similarity of shades between the ceramic discs with try-in pastes and those with the respective resin cements. Shade stability was observed in ceramic discs with resin cements within the intervals evaluated.

Influence of Ureteral Stone Components on the Outcomes of Electrohydraulic Lithotripsy

PURPOSE: We evaluated the influence of urinary stone components on the outcomes of ureteroscopic removal of stones (URS) by electrohydraulic lithotripsy (EHL) in patients with distal ureteral stones. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Patients with a single distal ureteral stone with a stone size of 0.5 to 2.0 cm that was completely removed by use of EHL were included in the study. Operating time was defined as the time interval between ureteroscope insertion and complete removal of ureteral stones. Ureteral stones were classified into 5 categories on the basis of their main component (that accounting for 50% or more of the stone content) as follows: calcium oxalate monohydrate (COM), calcium oxalate dihydrate, carbonate apatite (CAP), uric acid (UA), and struvite (ST). RESULTS: A total of 193 patients (131 males and 62 females) underwent EHL. The mean operating time was 25.1+/-8.2 minutes and the mean stone size was 1.15+/-0.44 cm. Calcium oxalate stones accounted for 64.8% of all ureteral stones, followed by UA (19.7%), CAP (8.3%), and ST (7.2%) stones. The mean operating time was significantly longer in the UA group (28.6+/-8.3 minutes) than in the COM group (24.0+/-7.8 minutes, p=0.04). In multivariate analyses, the stone size was negatively associated with the odds ratio (OR) for successful fragmentation. UA as a main component (OR, 0.42; 95% confidence interval, 0.20 to 0.89; p=0.023) was also found to be significantly important as a negative predictive factor of successful fragmentation after adjustment for stone size. CONCLUSIONS: The results of the present study suggest that successful fragmentation by URS with EHL could be associated with the proportion of the UA component.