Influence of viscosity and fiber reinforcement of resin composite on fracture strength and failure mode of restored molars.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the fracture behavior of human molars with extensive MOD restorations using short-fiber-reinforced resin composite of varying viscosities. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Human molars were randomly divided into seven groups (n = 12): intact teeth (control); restoration using conventional high-viscosity resin composite without (Filtek Z350XT, 3M) or with fibers (everX Posterior, GC); conventional low-viscosity resin composite without (Filtek Supreme Flowable, 3M) or with fibers (everX Flow Dentin Shade, GC); bulk-fill low-viscosity resin composite (Filtek Bulk Fill Flow, 3M) or with fibers (everX Flow Bulk Shade, GC). Restorations were performed on extensive MOD preparations, following the manufacturers' recommendations for each material. Specimens underwent fracture strength testing (N) and fracture pattern (%) categorized as repairable, possibly repairable, or non-repairable. Results were analyzed using a generalized linear model (N) and Fisher's exact test (%), with α = 0.05. RESULTS: Restorations performed with high-viscosity materials showed fracture strength values similar to the control and higher than those of restorations using low-viscosity resin composites (p < 0.0001), except for the bulk-fill low-viscosity resin composite with fibers (p > 0.05). Teeth restored using low-viscosity resin composite with fibers showed a higher % of repairable and possibly repairable fractures than the control (p = 0.0091). CONCLUSIONS: The viscosity of materials mediated the fracture strength, with restorations using high-viscosity resin composites promoting values similar to the intact tooth; however, the presence of fibers influenced the fracture pattern. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Teeth with MOD cavities restored with high-viscosity resin composites showed similar fracture strength to intact teeth. Fiber-reinforced low-viscosity resin composite for the base of restoration resulted in a more repairable/possibly repairable fracture pattern.

Bite hard: Linking cranial loading mechanics to ecological differences in gnawing behavior in caviomorph rodents.

The mammalian skull is very malleable and has notably radiated into highly diverse morphologies, fulfilling a broad range of functional needs. Although gnawing is relatively common in mammals, this behavior and its associated morphology are diagnostic features for rodents. These animals possess a very versatile and highly mechanically advantageous masticatory apparatus, which, for instance, allowed caviomorph rodents to colonize South America during the Mid-Eocene and successfully radiate in over 200 extant species throughout most continental niches. Previous work has shown that differences in bite force within caviomorphs could be better explained by changes in muscle development than in mechanical advantages (i.e., in cranial overall morphology). Considering the strong bites they apply, it is interesting to assess how the reaction forces upon the incisors (compression) and the powerful adductor musculature pulling (tension) mechanically affect the cranium, especially between species with different ecologies (e.g., chisel-tooth digging). Thus, we ran finite element analyses upon crania of the subterranean Talas' tuco-tuco Ctenomys talarum, the semi-fossorial common degu Octodon degus, and the saxicolous long-tailed chinchilla Chinchilla lanigera to simulate: (A) in vivo biting in all species, and (B) rescaled muscle forces in non-ctenomyid rodents to match those of the tuco-tuco. Results show that the stress patterns correlate with the mechanical demands of distinctive ecologies, on in vivo-based simulations, with the subterranean tuco-tuco being the most stressed species. In contrast, when standardizing all three species (rescaled models), non-ctenomyid models exhibited a several-fold increase in stress, in both magnitude and affected areas. Detailed observations evidenced that this increase in stress was higher in lateral sections of the snout and, mainly, the zygomatic arch; between approximately 2.5-3.5 times in the common degu and 4.0-5.0 times in the long-tailed chinchilla. Yet, neither species, module, nor simulation condition presented load factor levels that would imply structural failure by strong, incidental biting. Our results let us conclude that caviomorphs have a high baseline for mechanical strength of the cranium because of the inheritance of a very robust "rodent" model, while interspecific differences are associated with particular masticatory habits and the concomitant level of development of the adductor musculature. Especially, the masseteric and zygomaticomandibular muscles contribute to >80% of the bite force, and therefore, their contraction is responsible for the highest strains upon their origin sites, that is, the zygomatic arch and the snout. Thus, the robust crania of the subterranean and highly aggressive tuco-tucos allow them to withstand much stronger forces than degus or chinchillas, such as the ones produced by their hypertrophied jaw adductor muscles or imparted by the soil reaction.

Efeito do desenho de preparo e do material restaurador na distribuição de tensões, sobrevivência e carga média de fratura em fadiga de restaurações do tipo overlay / Effect of preparation desings and restorative material on the fatigue behavior and stress distribution of complete coverage onlays

Este estudo avalia o comportamento em fadiga e distribuição de tensões de três desenhos de preparo para overlays (n=21) (com preparo de istmo [IST], com preparo não retentivo [nRET] e sem preparo de istmo [sIST]) e o efeito do material restaurador (resina composta [Tetric CAD] e cerâmica vítrea reforçada por leucita [Empress CAD]) cimentados sobre resina epóxi G10. Com o objetivo de determinar os perfis de carregamento para o ensaio de vida acelerado step-stress (SSALT)), três espécimes de cada grupo foram testados monotônicamente, e os demais foram ensaiados até a fratura, em uma máquina de simulação de mastigação. O número de ciclos e a respectiva carga em que cada espécime falhou foi utilizado para análise de sobrevivência, assim como os dados de espécimes sobreviventes ao teste. Foi realizada a análise de probabilidade Weibull. O modo de falha dos espécimes foi avaliado por estereomicroscopia e microscopia eletrônica de varredura. O comportamento biomecânico foi avaliado utilizando a análise por elementos finitos, e a distribuição de tensão foi avaliada considerando os modelos isotrópicos, linearmente elásticos e homogêneos; uma carga axial (200 N) foi aplicada à superfície oclusal dos molares. A concentração de tensão nas restaurações, interfaces adesivas e estrutura dental foi analisada pelo critério de Tensão Máxima Principal. Houve diferença estatística no SSALT entre nRET-RC (1840,46N) e os demais grupos de estudo, no FEA os grupos LEU absorveram maiores picos de tensão e RC os menores. Os diferentes desenhos de preparo para overlay influenciam a resistência à fratura e a distribuição de tensões em restaurações de cerâmica reforçada com leucita e resina composta para CAD/CAM.(AU)

This study assessed the fatigue behavior and stress distribution of three preparation designs for overlays (n=21) (with isthmus preparation [IST], with non-retentive preparation [nRET], and without isthmus preparation [sIST]) and the effect of the restorative material (composite resin [Tetric CAD] and leucite-reinforced glass ceramic [Empress CAD]) cemented on G10 epoxy resin. To determine the loading profiles for the step-stress accelerated life test (SSALT), three specimens from each group were tested monotonically, and the remainder were tested until fracture, in a chewing simulation machine. The number of cycles and the corresponding load at which each specimen failed were used for survival analysis, along with data from surviving specimens. Weibull probability analysis was performed. The failure mode of the specimens was evaluated through stereomicroscopy and scanning electron microscopy. Biomechanical behavior was assessed using finite element analysis, and stress distribution was evaluated considering isotropic, linearly elastic, and homogeneous models; an axial load (200 N) was applied to the occlusal surface of the molars. Stress concentration in restorations, adhesive interfaces, and dental structure was analyzed using the Maximum Principal Stress criterion. There was a statistical difference in SSALT between nRET-RC (1840.46N) and the other study groups. In FEA, the LEU groups absorbed higher stress peaks, and RC groups absorbed lower ones. The different preparation designs for overlays influence the fracture resistance and stress distribution in leucite-reinforced ceramic and composite resin restorations for CAD/CAM.(AU)

Shape analysis of the preorbital bar in caviomorph rodents.

The highly specialised masticatory apparatus of rodents raises interesting questions about how their skull withstands the intensive and sustained forces produced by biting on hard items. In these mammals, major systematics were explored for a long time based on the adductor muscles' architecture and the related bony structures. The infraorbital foramen stands out, where a hypertrophied head of the zygomaticomandibular muscle passes through-in hystricomorphous rodents-as a direct consequence of the lateral and posterior shift of the preorbital bar. Interestingly, this bar moved laterally and backwards-enlarging the foramen-but it never disappeared throughout evolution, even showing morphological convergence among rodents. Previous research proposed this bar as behaving mechanically similar to the postorbital bar in ungulates, i.e., a safety structure against torsion stress while chewing. We analysed its morphology by mathematically modelling it under bending and torsion scenarios (linearly and elliptically shaped, respectively), and as for biting load propagation (catenary curve). Although the preorbital bar primarily seems to be shaped for withstanding torsional stress (as the postorbital bar in ungulates) and as an escaping point for force propagation, these forces are not a consequence of chewing and grinding foods, but preventing the zygomatic arch from failing when the powerful laterally-displaced jaw adductor muscles are pulling the dentary upwards at biting.

Analysis of stress/strain distribution in dental mini-implants manufactured by additive manufacturing and machining.

The study aimed to analyze the stress/strain distribution of new designs of mini-implants manufactured by machining and additive manufacturing. Four designs were evaluated (Ø2.0 mm × 10 mm): Intra-lock, helical, threaded machined (MN threaded) and threaded by additive manufacturing (AM threaded). Analysis of stress was performed through photoelastic analysis (100 N axial/oblique loads) and analysis of strain by digital image correlation (DIC) (250 N axial/100 N oblique load). Data distribution was verified using the Shapiro-Wilk test and a significance level of 5% was adopted. Quantitative data were analyzed using the non-parametric Kruskal-Wallis test. In photoelastic analysis, the Intra-lock mini-implant showed the highest stresses in the cervical (104 kPa), middle (108 kPa), and apical (212 kPa) thirds. Higher stresses were observed in the oblique loading situation for all designs. For DIC analysis, axial loading, a significant difference was observed for the AM Threaded mini-implants about the other designs in the cervical third (p = .04), with the highest strain value 47 µÎµ [10; 76]. In oblique loading, a significant difference between the mini-implants was observed in the middle and apical thirds, with higher strains for the AM threaded design -185 µÎµ [-173; 162] (p = .009) and 242 µÎµ [87; 372] (p = .013), respectively. In general, the influence of different mini-implant designs and the additive manufacturing method on the stress/strain was observed, in the photoelastic and DIC analysis. The evaluated designs demonstrated a lower concentration of stress/strain in the cervical region compared to the apical region, and higher stress/strain in situations of oblique load compared with axial load.

Microencapsulation of Carotenoid-Rich Extract from Guaraná Peels and Study of Microparticle Functionality through Incorporation into an Oatmeal Paste.

The peels of guaraná (Paullinia cupana) fruit contain abundant carotenoid content, which has demonstrated health benefits. However, these compounds are unstable in certain conditions, and their application into food products can be changed considering the processing parameters. This study aimed to encapsulate the carotenoid-rich extract from guaraná peels by spray drying (SD), characterize the microparticles, investigate their influence on the pasting properties of oatmeal paste, and evaluate the effects of temperature and shear on carotenoid stability during the preparation of this product. A rheometer with a pasting cell was used to simulate the extrusion conditions. Temperatures of 70, 80, and 90 °C and shear rates of 50 and 100 1/s were the parameters evaluated. Microparticles with a total carotenoid content between 40 and 96 µg/g were obtained. Over the storage period, carotenoid stability, particle size, color, moisture, and water activity varied according to the core:carrier material proportion used. Afterward, the formulation SD1:2 was selected to be incorporated in oatmeal, and the paste viscosity was influenced by the addition of this powder. ß-carotene retention was higher than that of lutein following the treatment. The less severe treatment involving a temperature of 70 °C and a shear rate of 50 1/s exhibited better retention of total carotenoids, regardless of whether the carotenoid-rich extract was encapsulated or non-encapsulated. In the other treatments, the thermomechanical stress significantly influenced the stability of the total carotenoid. These results suggest that the addition of encapsulated carotenoids to foods prepared at higher temperatures has the potential for the development of functional and stable products.

ANALYSIS OF THE MECHANICAL BEHAVIOR OF THE POSTERIOR CRUCIATE LIGAMENT IN A PORCINE MODEL.

Introduction: The knee has shown a significant increase in the frequency of injury due to sports practice. This increase and the improvement of surgical techniques of ligament reconstruction have led to a greater indication of this treatment to achieve a function close to normal. Objective: To conduct a preliminary analysis of the ligament behavior. Methods: The study consisted of the validation of an anatomical model of the pig, in which five models were subjected to mechanical tests. The data on the loads of the in situ model and the strains of the posterior cruciate ligament were collected. Results: The analysis of the tensile load showed, at first, a nonlinear increase in stresses. Subsequently, the pig's knee showed a relatively linear intermediate response until failure around 1,200 N. Strain × time showed a response of the posterior cruciate ligament, which also has a relatively linear response. Conclusion: We observed a linear behavior in the range of 1,000 to 5,000 microstrains in the strain of the posterior cruciate ligament. We suggest further studies to understand knee ligaments regarding their behavior in their function. Level of Evidence IV, Biomechanical Study.

Introdução: O joelho tem demonstrado um aumento significativo de frequência de lesão devido à prática esportiva. Esse aumento e a melhoria das técnicas cirúrgicas de reconstrução ligamentar têm levado a maior indicação desse tratamento com o objetivo de se atingir uma função próxima do normal. Objetivo: Realizar uma análise preliminar do comportamento ligamentar. Métodos: O estudo consistiu na validação de um modelo anatômico do porco, em que cinco modelos foram submetidos a ensaios mecânicos. Foram coletados os dados das cargas do modelo in situ e das deformações do ligamento cruzado posterior. Resultados: Na análise da carga trativa, foi observado que em um primeiro momento existe um aumento não linear das tensões. Em sequência, há uma resposta intermediária relativamente linear do joelho suíno até a falha em torno de 1.200 N. A deformação versus tempo mostrou uma resposta do ligamento cruzado posterior, que também possui uma resposta relativamente linear. Conclusão: Observou-se um comportamento linear na faixa de 1.000 até 5.000 microstrains na deformação do ligamento cruzado posterior. Sugerem-se novos estudos para a compreensão dos ligamentos do joelho quanto ao comportamento deles na sua função. Nível de Evidência IV, Estudo Mecânico.

Direct and semi-direct resin composite restoration in large cavity preparations: analysis of dentin bond strength stability and bottom/top microhardness ratio in a cavity model.

To evaluate the influence of the restorative approach and aging time on dentin bond strength (BS), failure mode (FM), and bottom/top microhardness ratio (B/T) in a large dentin cavity model. A total of 102 bovine incisors were used to produce models of conical dentin cavities (4.0 mm thickness × 4.8 mm top diameter × 2.8 mm bottom diameter), which were restored using semi-direct filling (SDF) (Filtek™ Z250 XT + Scotchbond™ Universal/RelyX™ Ultimate luting system), direct bulk filling (DBF) (Filtek™ One Bulk Fill), and direct incremental filling (DIF) (Filtek™ Z250 XT) techniques. B/T, BS, and FM (n = 17) were analyzed in a microhardness tester, a universal testing machine, and a stereomicroscope, respectively, after 24 h and 6 months of water storage. BS and B/T data were analyzed using two-way ANOVA/Tukey post-hoc test (p < 0.05), while FM data were analyzed descriptively. There was a statistically significant difference in BS between the restorative techniques, and BS was influenced by aging time in the DBF and SDF groups. Mixed failure was predominant for the SDF technique in both aging times. There was no statistically significant difference in B/T among the restorative approaches regardless of the aging time (p > 0.05). Although all restorative approaches provided similar B/T, the semi-direct technique showed better performance on the material bond strength to dentine in large cavities.

Analysis of the mechanical behavior of the posterior cruciate ligament in a porcine model / Análise do comportamento mecânico do ligamento cruzado posterior em modelo suíno

ABSTRACT Introduction: The knee has shown a significant increase in the frequency of injury due to sports practice. This increase and the improvement of surgical techniques of ligament reconstruction have led to a greater indication of this treatment to achieve a function close to normal. Objective: To conduct a preliminary analysis of the ligament behavior. Methods: The study consisted of the validation of an anatomical model of the pig, in which five models were subjected to mechanical tests. The data on the loads of the in situ model and the strains of the posterior cruciate ligament were collected. Results: The analysis of the tensile load showed, at first, a nonlinear increase in stresses. Subsequently, the pig's knee showed a relatively linear intermediate response until failure around 1,200 N. Strain × time showed a response of the posterior cruciate ligament, which also has a relatively linear response. Conclusion: We observed a linear behavior in the range of 1,000 to 5,000 microstrains in the strain of the posterior cruciate ligament. We suggest further studies to understand knee ligaments regarding their behavior in their function. Level of Evidence IV, Biomechanical Study.

RESUMO Introdução: O joelho tem demonstrado um aumento significativo de frequência de lesão devido à prática esportiva. Esse aumento e a melhoria das técnicas cirúrgicas de reconstrução ligamentar têm levado a maior indicação desse tratamento com o objetivo de se atingir uma função próxima do normal. Objetivo: Realizar uma análise preliminar do comportamento ligamentar. Métodos: O estudo consistiu na validação de um modelo anatômico do porco, em que cinco modelos foram submetidos a ensaios mecânicos. Foram coletados os dados das cargas do modelo in situ e das deformações do ligamento cruzado posterior. Resultados: Na análise da carga trativa, foi observado que em um primeiro momento existe um aumento não linear das tensões. Em sequência, há uma resposta intermediária relativamente linear do joelho suíno até a falha em torno de 1.200 N. A deformação versus tempo mostrou uma resposta do ligamento cruzado posterior, que também possui uma resposta relativamente linear. Conclusão: Observou-se um comportamento linear na faixa de 1.000 até 5.000 microstrains na deformação do ligamento cruzado posterior. Sugerem-se novos estudos para a compreensão dos ligamentos do joelho quanto ao comportamento deles na sua função. Nível de Evidência IV, Estudo Mecânico.

Mecanosensores en el cambio de fenotipo de la musculatura lisa vascular / Mechanosensors and phenotype changes in vascular smooth muscle

Resumen: Introducción: Las células de la musculatura lisa vascular (CMLV) se caracterizan por mantener cierto grado de desdiferenciación, variando su fenotipo entre el contráctil y el secretor, de acuerdo con las necesidades del tejido, y el contráctil predominante en condiciones fisiológicas. Cualquier alteración del estímulo mecánico, ya sea en el flujo sanguíneo o la tensión mecánica ejercida sobre las CMLV, conducen a cambios de su fenotipo y remodelamiento de la vasculatura, lo que puede constituir el punto de inflexión de varias patologías relevantes en la salud pública como, por ejemplo, la hipertensión arterial. Objetivo: Realizar una revisión sobre los mecanosensores y las vías transduccionales conocidas e implicadas en el cambio de fenotipo de las CMLV. Metodología: Se realizó una búsqueda sistemática en las bases de datos PubMed, Scopus, Google Académico y Scielo sobre la mantención y cambio de fenotipo de las células de la musculatura lisa vascular asociado principalmente a el estrés mecánico, la participación de los mecanosensores más relevantes y las vías de señalización involucrados en este proceso. Conclusión: Los mecanosensores implicados en el cambio de fenotipo de las CMLV contemplan principalmente receptores acoplados a proteína G, moléculas de adhesión y canales iónicos activados por estiramiento. Los estudios se han concentrado en la activación o inhibición de vías como las proteínas quinasas activadas por mitógenos (MAPK), la vía AKT, mTOR y factores transcripcionales que regulan la expresión de genes de diferenciación y/o desdiferenciación, como las miocardinas. Existen además otros receptores involucrados en la respuesta al estrés mecánico, como los receptores tirosina quinasas. A pesar de la importancia que reviste el conocimiento de los mecanosensores y las vías implicadas en el cambio de fenotipo de las CMLV, así como el papel que cumplen en el establecimiento de patologías vasculares, es aún escaso el conocimiento que se tiene sobre los mismos.

Abstract: Introduction: Vascular smooth muscle cells (VS- MCs) are characterized by maintaining a certain de- gree of dedifferentiation. VSMCs may vary their phenotype between contractile and secretory according to tissue needs. Under physiological conditions, the predominant phenotype is contractile. Any alteration of the mechanical stimulus, either in the blood flow or the mechanical stress exerted on the VSMCs, leads to changes in their phenotype and remodeling of the vasculature. These changes can constitute the turning point in several hypertension and other diseases relevant in public health. Objective: To review the main mechanosensor and transduction pathways involved changes in VSMCs phenotype. Methods: A systematic search of PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar and Scielo databases was carried out to ascertain the state of the art regarding the maintenance and change of VSMCs phenotype mainly associated with mechanical stress. Additionally, the participation of the most relevant mechanosensors and the signaling pathways involved in this process are discussed. Conclusion: The mechanosensors involved in the change in VSMCs phenotype mainly contempla- te G-protein-coupled receptors, adhesion molecules, and stretch-activated ion channels. Studies have been focused on the activation or inhibition of MAPK, AKT, mTOR, pathways and transcriptional factors that regulate the expression of differentiation and/or des differentiation genes such as Myocardins. There are also other receptors involved in the response to mechanical stress such as the tyrosine kinases receptor. Although the importance of understanding mechanosensors, the signaling pathways involved in VSMC phenotype switching and their role in the establishment of vascular pathologies, knowledge about them is limited.

Inflammatory Foot Involvement in Spondyloarthritis: From Tarsitis to Ankylosing Tarsitis.

Spondyloarthritis (SpA) is a group that includes a wide spectrum of clinically similar diseases manifested by oligoarticular arthritis and axial or peripheral ankylosis. Although axial SpA is predominant in Caucasians and adult-onset patients, juvenile-onset and Latin American patients are characterized by severe peripheral arthritis and particularly foot involvement. The peripheral involvement of SpA can vary from tarsal arthritis to the most severe form named ankylosing tarsitis (AT). Although the cause and etiopathogenesis of axSpA are often studied, the specific characteristics of pSpA are unknown. Several animal models of SpA develop initial tarsitis and foot ankylosis as the main signs, emphasizing the role of foot inflammation in the overall SpA spectrum. In this review, we attempt to highlight the clinical characteristics of foot involvement in SpA and update the knowledge regarding its pathogenesis, focusing on animal models and the role of mechanical forces in inflammation.

Computer Aided Design Modelling and Finite Element Analysis of Premolar Proximal Cavities Restored with Resin Composites.

This study evaluated the stress distribution in five different class II cavities of premolar models restored with conventional or bulk-fill flowable composite by means of finite element analysis (FEA) under shrinkage and occlusal loading. An upper validated premolar model was imported in the software, and five class II cavities with different occlusal extensions and dimensions were prepared: horizontal cavity on the mesial surface (horizontal slot), mesio-occlusal cavity, mesial cavity (vertical slot), tunnel type cavity and direct access cavity. The models were restored with conventional or bulk-fill flowable resin composite. The tested materials were considered as homogeneous, linear, and isotropic. The Maximum Principal Stress criteria was chosen to evaluate the tensile stress results. The lowest shrinkage stress value was observed in the direct access cavity restored with bulk-fill flowable resin composite (36.12 MPa). The same cavity, restored with conventional composite showed a score of 36.14 MPa. The horizontal slot cavity with bulk-fill flowable showed a score of 46.71 MPa. The mesio-occlusal cavity with bulk-fill flowable had a score of 53.10 MPa, while with conventional composite this was 55.35 MPa. Higher shrinkage stress was found in the vertical slot cavity with conventional resin 56.14 MPa, followed by the same cavity with bulk-fill flowable 56.08 MPa. Results indicated that the use of bulk-fill flowable composite resin more significantly decreased the polymerization shrinkage stress magnitude. The larger the cavity and the volume of material necessary to restore the tooth, the greater the residual stress on enamel and dentin tissue.

Mechanical Behavior of Different Restorative Materials and Onlay Preparation Designs in Endodontically Treated Molars.

This study evaluated the effect of the combination of three different onlay preparation designs and two restorative materials on the stress distribution, using 3D-finite element analysis. Six models of first lower molars were created according to three preparation designs: non-retentive (nRET), traditional with occlusal isthmus reduction (IST), and traditional without occlusal isthmus reduction (wIST); and according to two restorative materials: lithium-disilicate (LD) and nanoceramic resin (NR). A 600 N axial load was applied at the central fossa. All solids were considered isotropic, homogeneous, and linearly elastic. A static linear analysis was performed, and the Maximum Principal Stress (MPS) criteria were used to evaluate the results and compare the stress in MPa on the restoration, cement layer, and tooth structure (enamel and dentin). A novel statistical approach was used for quantitative analysis of the finite element analysis results. On restoration and cement layer, nRET showed a more homogeneous stress distribution, while the highest stress peaks were calculated for LD onlays (restoration: 69-110; cement layer: 10.2-13.3). On the tooth structure, the material had more influence, with better results for LD (27-38). It can be concluded that nRET design showed the best mechanical behavior compared to IST and wIST, with LD being more advantageous for tooth structure and NR for the restoration and cement layer.

Mechanical behavior and microstructural characterization of different zirconia polycrystals in different thicknesses.

PURPOSE: To characterize the microstructure of three yttria partially stabilized zirconia ceramics and to compare their hardness, indentation fracture resistance (IFR), biaxial flexural strength (BFS), and fatigue flexural strength. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Disc-shaped specimens were obtained from 3Y-TZP (Vita YZ HT), 4Y-PSZ (Vita YZ ST) and 5Y-PSZ (Vita YZ XT), following the ISO 6872/2015 guidelines for BFS testing (final dimensions of 12 mm in diameter, 0.7 and 1.2 ± 0.1 mm in thicknesses). Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analyses were performed, and mechanical properties were assessed by Vickers hardness, IFR, quasi-static BFS and fatigue tests. RESULTS: All ceramics showed similar chemical compositions, but mainly differed in the amount of yttria, which was higher as the amount of cubic phase in the diffractogram (5Y-PSZ > 4Y-PSZ > 3Y-TZP). The 4Y- and 5Y-PSZ specimens showed surface defects under SEM, while 3Y-TZP exhibited greater grain uniformity on the surface. 5Y-PSZ and 3Y-TZP presented the highest hardness values, while 3Y-TZP was higher than 4Y- and 5Y-PSZ with regard to the IFR. The 5Y-PSZ specimen (0.7 and 1.2 mm) showed the worst mechanical performance (fatigue BFS and cycles until failure), while 3Y-TZP and 4Y-PSZ presented statistically similar values, higher than 5Y-PSZ for both thicknesses (0.7 and 1.2 mm). Moreover, 3Y-TZP showed the highest (1.2 mm group) and the lowest (0.7 mm group) degradation percentage, and 5Y-PSZ had higher strength degradation than 4Y-PSZ group. CONCLUSION: Despite the microstructural differences, 4Y-PSZ and 3Y-TZP had similar fatigue behavior regardless of thickness. 5Y-PSZ had the lowest mechanical performance.

Copper nanoparticles as nanofillers in an adhesive resin system: An in vitro study.

BACKGROUND: The incorporation of an antibacterial agent into an adhesive could improve its clinical performance. Some nanoparticles (NPs), including copper nanoparticles (Cu NPs), display an antibacterial effect. Therefore, Cu NPs could act as a nanofiller when added to an adhesive. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to evaluate the antibacterial activity, cytotoxicity and shear bond strength (SBS) of an experimental dental adhesive with Cu NPs. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Different concentrations (0.0050 wt%, 0.0075 wt% and 0.0100 wt%) of Cu NPs were added to the adhesive. The distribution of Cu NPs in the polymer matrix was observed based on transmission electron microscope (TEM) images. The antimicrobial activity of the adhesive + Cu NPs was evaluated with the agar disk diffusion test against Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans). The cytotoxicity assay was performed by means of the MTT (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) method with human pulp cells (HPC). Additionally, the SBS tests were carried out (n = 31) and the modes of fracture were registered. The vestibular and lingual surfaces of each tooth were randomly assigned to the study groups (group I - control adhesive; group II - adhesive + 0.0100 wt% Cu NPs). The samples were statistically analyzed (p ≤ 0.05). RESULTS: The adhesive + 0.0100 wt% Cu NPs showed inhibition zones against the strains under study that were similar to, or slightly smaller than, the halos produced by chlorhexidine (CHX) and specific drugs for each strain (30 µg of cefotaxime against S. mutans and S. aureus, and 1.25/3.75 µg of sulfamethoxazole/ trimethoprim against E. coli). The control adhesive was moderately cytotoxic (relative cell viability of 36.7 ±0.8%), being more cytotoxic than Cu NPs themselves (58.3 ±0.1%). A significantly higher SBS was obtained for the adhesive + 0.0100 wt% Cu NPs (6.038 ±2.95 MPa) than for the control group (3.278 ±1.75 MPa). The modes of fracture in group I were almost equally distributed between adhesive and cohesive failures whereas in group II, the failure was mainly cohesive. CONCLUSIONS: The results of this study suggest that incorporating Cu NPs into an adhesive improves its SBS and provides it with antibacterial properties, without increasing its inherent cytotoxicity - 2 desirable characteristics for the dental adhesives of composites.

Non-silicate nanoparticles for improved nanohybrid resin composites.

OBJECTIVE: Zirconia and alumina nanoparticles were coated with a silica-rich layer (ALSI and ZRSI) and used to prepare experimental nanohybrid resin composites, which were characterized and compared to a control commercial resin composite (Filtek Z350 XT). METHODS: Silica nanoparticles with sizes compatible to ALSI (Aerosil 150) and ZRSI (Aerosil OX 50) were tested as references. The volume of nanoparticles was equivalent across the composites, which also had consistent content of glass microparticles. CC conversion, viscosity, depth of cure, surface topography, hardness, opacity, radio-opacity, and edge chipping resistance (ReA) were tested after 24 h. Flexural strength (σf) and fracture toughness (KIC) were also tested after 15 K thermal cycles. Data were analyzed using one-way or two-way ANOVA and Tukey's test (α = 0.05). RESULTS: ALSI and ZRSI yielded resin composites with lower viscosity and more irregular nanoagglomerates compared to nanosilica-based composites. CC conversion and depth of cure were lower for ZRSI composite, which had higher opacity, radio-opacity, and hardness. ReA was higher for ALSI composite. Composites with ALSI and ZRSI showed stable σf after aging, whereas the control and Aerosil 150 resin composites showed significant degradation. The commercial and nanosilica-based composites showed up to 42% reduction in KIC after aging, whereas resin composites with ZRSI and ALSI showed a more stable KIC. SIGNIFICANCE: ALSI and ZRSI generated nanohybrid resin composites with improved and/or more stable physical properties compared with nanosilica-based and commercial composites. This study suggests that changing the composition of nanofillers is a simple method to enhance the performance of nanohybrid composites.

The Influence of Custom-Milled Framework Design for an Implant-Supported Full-Arch Fixed Dental Prosthesis: 3D-FEA Sudy.

The current study aimed to evaluate the mechanical behavior of two different maxillary prosthetic rehabilitations according to the framework design using the Finite Element Analysis. An implant-supported full-arch fixed dental prosthesis was developed using a modeling software. Two conditions were modeled: a conventional casted framework and an experimental prosthesis with customized milled framework. The geometries of bone, prostheses, implants and abutments were modeled. The mechanical properties and friction coefficient for each isotropic and homogeneous material were simulated. A load of 100 N load was applied on the external surface of the prosthesis at 30° and the results were analyzed in terms of von Mises stress, microstrains and displacements. In the experimental design, a decrease of prosthesis displacement, bone strain and stresses in the metallic structures was observed, except for the abutment screw that showed a stress increase of 19.01%. The conventional design exhibited the highest stress values located on the prosthesis framework (29.65 MPa) between the anterior implants, in comparison with the experimental design (13.27 MPa in the same region). An alternative design of a stronger framework with lower stress concentration was reported. The current study represents an important step in the design and analysis of implant-supported full-arch fixed dental prosthesis with limited occlusal vertical dimension.

Acute aortic wall injury caused by aortic cross-clamping: morphological and biomechanical study of the aorta in a swine model of three aortic surgery approaches.

BACKGROUND: Aortic cross-clamping and balloon occlusion of the aorta could lead to damage to the aorta wall. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to investigate changes to the aorta wall related to the method used to interrupt flow (clamping or balloon) in the different techniques available for aortic surgery. METHODS: Experiments were performed on 40 female pigs, weighing 25-30kg, which were randomly allocated to 4 study groups: S (n=10), no intervention (sham group); C (n=10), midline transperitoneal laparotomy for infrarenal abdominal aortic access with 60 min of cross-clamping; L (n=10), laparoscopic infrarenal abdominal aortic surgery with 60 min of cross-clamping; EV (n=10), remote proximal aortic control with transfemoral arterial insertion of aortic occlusion balloon catheter, inflated to provide continued aortic occlusion for 60min. After euthanasia, the aortas were removed and cross-sectioned to obtain histological specimens for light microscopic and morphometric analyses. The remaining longitudinal segments were stretched to rupture and mechanical parameters were determined. RESULTS: We observed a reduction in the yield point of the abdominal aorta, decrease in stiffness and in failure load in the aortic cross-clamping groups (C and L) compared with the EV group. CONCLUSIONS: Aortic cross-clamping during open or laparoscopic surgery can affect the mechanical properties of the aorta leading to decrease in resistance of the aorta wall, without structural changes in aorta wall histology.

Avaliação in vitro de propriedades mecânicas de resinas compostas com adição de zircônia e de resina composta com adição de zircônia e diatomita utilizadas em restaurações semidiretas / In vitro evaluation of mechanical properties of composite resins with the addition of zirconia and composite resin with the addition of zirconia and diatomite used in semi-direct restorations

INTRODUÇÃO: A incorporação de partículas de carga às resinas compostas tem o papel de melhorar suas propriedades físicas e mecânicas, conferindo uma maior resistência às restaurações. Muitos compósitos possuem nanopartículas incorporadas a sua composição, como quartzo, zircônia, sílica e, mais recentemente, a diatomita, que é uma rocha sedimentar rica em sílica. A adição dessas partículas busca aumentar a área de superfície e promover maior interação com a matriz orgânica. OBJETIVOS: Esse estudo objetivou avaliar resistência de união (RU), padrão de fratura (PF), profundidade de polimerização (PP), resistência a flexão (RF) e módulo de elasticidade (ME) de resinas compostas convencionais com adição de zircônia, com adição de zircônia e diatomita e de incremento único, em restaurações confeccionadas pela técnica semidireta, em dois tempos de envelhecimento (24h e 6 meses). METODOLOGIA: Foram criadas cavidades troncocônicas em dentina de incisivos bovinos (N=136), para confecção de restaurações semidiretas utilizando as resinas: Bulk Fill (BF) (3M ESPE®), Resina Z250 XT (Z250XT) (3M ESPE®), Resina Zirconfill (ZF) (BM4®) e Resina Z350 XT (Z350XT) (3M ESPE®), cimentadas com cimento resinoso dual autocondicionante RelyX Ultimate (3M ESPE®). As amostras foram armazenadas por 24 horas e 6 meses em estufa a 37ºC antes da realização dos testes de RU e PF, sendo as amostras com 24 horas selecionadas para o teste de PP. Para os testes de RF e ME, utilizando uma matriz de silicone, foram confeccionados palitos padronizados (10,0 mm. x 1,0 mm. de altura x 2,0 mm.) para cada resina testada (n=10) e também armazenados em estufa a 37ºC por 24h e 6 meses antes da realização dos testes. RESULTADOS: Na análise imediata, a resina ZF apresentou a maior RU entre os grupos e apresentou diferença estatisticamente significativa com o grupo BF. Já a resina Z350 aumentou sua RU com o tempo de envelhecimento. Não houve diferença entre a RF das resinas analisadas após 24h, porém após 6 meses a Z250 apresentou a menor média, enquanto os demais grupos aumentaram a RF com o tempo, sendo o maior aumento para o grupo da ZF. Com relação ao ME, apenas as resinas Z350 e ZF apresentaram diferença estatisticamente significativa com o tempo de envelhecimento das amostras, aumentando esse valor. As fraturas mistas foram predominantes para todos os compósitos em ambos os tempos de envelhecimento e para PP não foram encontradas diferenças estatisticamente significativas entre os grupos de estudo. CONCLUSAO: As resinas que continham adição de zircônia ou zircônia e diatomita no seu conteúdo inorgânico, bem como a resina de incremento único mostraram comportamentos positivos diante as propriedades de RU, a RF e o ME, principalmente para as resinas Z350XT e ZF. Estudos clínicos são recomendados para comprovar os resultados desse estudo laboratorial (AU).

INTRODUCTION: The incorporation of filler particles in composite resins has the role of improving their physical and mechanical properties, providing greater resistance to restorations. Many composites have nanoparticles incorporated into their composition, such as quartz, zirconia, silica and, more recently, diatomite, which is a silica-rich sedimentary rock. The addition of these particles seeks to increase the surface area and promote greater interaction with the organic matrix. OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to evaluate bond strength (RU), fracture pattern (PF), polymerization depth (PP), flexural strength (RF) and elasticity module (ME) of conventional composite resins with zirconia addition, with addition of zirconia and diatomite and single increment, in restorations made by the semi-direct technique, in two aging times (24h and 6 months). METHODOLOGY: Trunk-cone cavities were created in dentin of bovine incisors (N = 136), for the manufacture of semi-direct restorations using resins: Bulk Fill (BF) (3M ESPE®), Resin Z250 XT (Z250XT) (3M ESPE®), Resin Zirconfill (ZF) (BM4®) and Z350 XT Resin (Z350XT) (3M ESPE®), cemented with RelyX Ultimate self-etching dual resin cement (3M ESPE®). The samples were stored for 24 hours and 6 months in an oven at 37ºC before the RU and PF tests were carried out, and the samples with 24 hours were selected for the PP test. For the RF and ME tests, using a silicone matrix, standard toothpicks (10.0 mm. X 1.0 mm. High x 2.0 mm.) Were made for each tested resin (n = 10) and also stored in an oven at 37ºC for 24h and 6 months before testing. RESULTS: In the immediate analysis, the ZF resin showed the highest RU among the groups and showed a statistically significant difference with the BF group. The Z350 resin increased its RU with the aging time. There was no difference between the RF of the resins analyzed after 24 hours, but after 6 months the Z250 showed the lowest average, while the other groups increased the RF over time, with the greatest increase for the ZF group. Regarding ME, only resins Z350 and ZF showed a statistically significant difference with the aging time of the samples, increasing this value. Mixed fractures were predominant for all composites in both aging times and for PP, no statistically significant differences were found between the study groups. CONCLUSION: The resins that contained added zirconia or zirconia and diatomite in their inorganic content, as well as the single-increment resin showed positive behaviors in relation to the properties of RU, RF and ME, mainly for resins Z350XT and ZF. Clinical studies are recommended to confirm the results of this laboratory study (AU).

Fatiga cíclica de cuatro sistemas reciprocantes en una canaleta dinámica de raíces simuladas / Cyclical fatigue of four reciprocating systems in a dynamic dump of simulating roots / Fadiga cíclica de quatro sistemas reciprocantes em uma com canais simulados

En conductos radiculares curvos, la utilización de limas que eviten desvíos y fracturas del instrumento por fatiga y que mantengan curvaturas originales son aspectos importantes en el tratamiento endodóntico. Ob-jetivo: Se evaluó la resistencia a la fatiga cíclica de cuatro sistemas reciprocantes en una canaleta dinámica que simuló tres curvaturas diferentes. Materiales y Método: Estudio in vitro; la muestra con 48 limas se dividió en cuatro grupos (n= 12/grupo): WaveOne® (WO), WaveOne® Gold (WOG), Reciproc® (R) y Reciproc® Blue (RB), cuatro limas de cada sistema se usaron en una canaleta que simuló tres angulaciones 45°, 60° y 90°; montadas en un motor X-Smart Plus®, las limas se introdujeron 23 mm en los conductos para ser activadas continuamente a 300/500 oscilaciones/minuto hasta que se produjo la fractura. Se registró tiempo y zona de fractura. Se realizó el test Kruskal Wallis con un nivel de confianza del 95% para las comparaciones. Resul-tados: RB presentó mayor resistencia a la fatiga cíclica que WO y WOG en todas las angulaciones y que R a 90° (p= <0,05). R presentó mayor resistencia que WOG a 45° y 60°, sin embargo, a 90° WOG fue superior que R y WO (p<0,05). No hubo diferencias en cuanto a la zona de fractura que aconteció en la porción apical. Conclusiones: La resistencia se reduce cuando aumenta el grado de curvatura. RB fue significativamente más resistente a la fatiga cíclica que WO y WOG en todas las angulaciones y que R a 90°. La zona de fractura se produjo en la porción apical de las limas.

In the curved canals, the use of files that avoid deviations and fractures of the instrument due to fatigue and that maintain original curvatures are important aspects in endodontic treatment. Objective: The resistance to cyclic fatigue of four reciprocating systems was evaluated in a dynamic gutter that stimulated three different curvatures. Materials and Method: In vitro study, the sample with 48 files was divided into four groups (n = 12 /group): WaveOne® (WO), WaveOne® Gold (WOG), Reciproc® (R) and Reciproc® Blue (RB), four files from each system were used in a gutter that simulated three angulations 45o , 60 o and 90 o . The files which were mounted on an X-smart Plus® were inserted 23 mm into the conduits to be continuously activated at 300/500 oscillations per minute until the fracture occurred. Time and fracture zone were recorded. The Krustal Wallis test was performed with a 95% confidence level for the comparisons. Results: RB presented greater resis-tance to cyclic fatigue than WO and WOG at 45o and 60o, however, at 90o WOG was higher than R and WO (p<0.05). There were no differences regarding the fracture zone occurred in the apical portion. Conclusions: The resistance decreases when the degree of curvature increases. RB was significantly more resistance to cyclic fatigue than WO and WOG at all angulations and R at 90o. The fracture zone occurred in the apical portion of the files.

Em canais radiculares curvos, o uso de limas que evitem desvios e fraturas do instrumento devido à fadiga e que mantêm as curvaturas originais são aspectos importantes no tratamento endodôntico. Objetivo: avaliar a resistência à fadiga cíclica de quatro sistemas reciprocantes em uma canaleta artificial que simula três curva-turas diferentes. Materiais e Método: estudo in vitro; a amostra com 48 limas foi dividida em quatro grupos (n = 12 / grupo): WaveOne® (WO), WaveOne® Gold (WOG), Reciproc® (R) e Reciproc® Blue (RB), quatro limas de cada sistema foram usadas em uma canaleta que simulo três angulações 45 °, 60 ° e 90 °; se montaram em um motor X Smart Plus®, as limas foram inseridas 23 mm nos condutos para serem ativadas continuamente a 300/350 oscilações / minuto até ocorrer uma fratura. O tempo e a zona de fratura foram registrados. O teste de Kruskal Wallis foi realizado com um nível de confiança de 95% para as comparações. Resultados: O RB apresenta maior resistência à fadiga cíclica que o WO e o WOG em todas as angulações e que R a 90 ° (p = <0,05). R apresentou maior resistência que WOG a 45 ° e 60 °, no entanto, a 90 ° WOG foi maior que R e WO (p <0,05). No existiu diferença na zona de fratura que ocorreu na porção apical. Conclusões: a resistência diminui quando o grau de curvatura aumenta. RB foi significativamente mais resistente à fadiga cíclica do que WO e WOG em todos os ângulos e R a 90 °. A zona de fratura ocorre na parte apical das limas.