The Effect of Aging on Artificial Saliva at Different pH Values on the Color Stability of New Generation Denture Base Materials

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM

New-generation denture base materials are used successfully in denture fabrication; however, the effect of saliva pH change on the color stability of materials is unknown.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this in vitro study is to evaluate the color stability of new-generation denture base materials after immersion in artificial saliva with different pH values (3,7,14).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Disc-shaped samples (Ø 10 mm x 2 mm) were prepared from three different denture base materials (1 pre-polymerized polymethylmethacrylate [PMMA], 1 graphene-reinforced PMMA, and heat-cure polymethyl methacrylate resin) (n=10). After polishing, color coordinates were measured using a PCE-CSM 5 colorimeter programmed in the CIE system (L* a* b*). The samples were kept in artificial saliva at different pH values and 37°C for 21 days. At the end of 21 days, color coordinates were measured again. The suitability of the measurements for a normal distribution was examined with the Kolmogro-Smirnov test. Whether color measurements obtained at different pH levels differed according to groups was examined with the Kruskal-Wallis test. The correlation between the CIEDE2000 and CIELab color difference formulas was examined by correlation analysis.

RESULTS

The highest color difference occurred in heat-cure samples at pH 3 (p<0.001). The color difference at different pH values was least observed in pre-polymerized PMMA samples. Significant color differences occurred in the graphene-reinforced pre-polymerized PMMA group at pH 7 (p<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

It was observed that color differences occurred in all groups. Dentures made of new-generation CAD/CAM PMMA, which are less exposed to color differences, can be recommended for elderly patients with systemic diseases who are frequently exposed to pH changes in the oral cavity.

CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS

Color differences on denture surfaces over time negatively affect aesthetics. Since pH changes cause changes on the prosthesis surface, it may be recommended for these patients to fabricate dentures from new-generation CAD/CAM PMMA resins, which are less deformable.

Effect of coffee thermal cycling on the surface properties and stainability of additively manufactured denture base resins in different layer thicknesses

PURPOSE

To compare the effect of coffee thermal cycling on surface roughness (Ra), Vickers microhardness (MH), and stainability of denture base resins additively manufactured in different layer thicknesses with those of subtractively manufactured denture base materials.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Eighty disk-shaped specimens (Ø10×2 mm) were fabricated from two subtractively (Merz M-PM [SM-M] and G-CAM [SM-G]) and three additively (NextDent 3D+ [50 µm, AM-N-50; 100 µm, AM-N-100], FREEPRINT Denture [50 µm, AM-F-50; 100 µm, AM-F-100], and Denturetec [50 µm, AM-S-50; 100 µm, AM-S-100]) manufactured denture base materials (n = 10). Ra measurements were performed before and after polishing by using a non-contact optical profilometer, while MH values and color coordinates were measured after polishing. Specimens were then subjected to 5000 cycles of coffee thermal cycling, all measurements were repeated, and color differences (ΔE00) were calculated. A linear mixed effect model was used to analyze Ra and MH data, while one-way analysis of variance was used to analyze ΔE00 data (α = 0.05). Ra values were further evaluated according to a clinically acceptable threshold of 0.2 µm, while ΔE00 values were evaluated according to perceptibility (1.72 units) and acceptability (4.08 units) thresholds. The interaction between the material type and the time interval affected both Ra and MH (p ≤ 0.001). Tested materials had their highest Ra before polishing (p ≤ 0.029). Before polishing, AM-F-100 had the highest, and SM-M and SM-G had the lowest Ra (p < 0.001). After polishing and after coffee thermal cycling, SM-G mostly had lower Ra than those of other materials (p ≤ 0.036). SM-G mostly had higher MH than that of other materials before and after coffee thermal cycling (p ≤ 0.025). Coffee thermal cycling reduced the MH of SM-M and increased that of AM-S-100 (p ≤ 0.024). AM-N-100 had higher ΔE00 than AM-F, AM-S-100, and SM-G (p ≤ 0.009), while AM-F and SM-G had lower ΔE00 than AM-S-50 and AM-N-50 (p ≤ 0.024).

CONCLUSIONS

Polishing reduced the surface roughness of all materials, whereas the effect of coffee thermal cycling was nonsignificant. Most of the tested materials had acceptable surface roughness after polishing and after coffee thermal cycling according to the reported threshold. Layer thickness only affected the microhardness of tested additively manufactured resins, which was material-dependent. Subtractively manufactured specimens mostly had high microhardness and that of nonreinforced subtractively manufactured resin decreased after coffee thermal cycling. When reported color thresholds are considered, all materials had acceptable color stability.

Surface roughness, optical properties, and microhardness of additively and subtractively manufactured CAD-CAM materials after brushing and coffee thermal cycling

PURPOSE

To evaluate the surface roughness, optical properties, and microhardness of additively or subtractively manufactured CAD-CAM materials after simulated brushing and coffee thermal cycling.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Two additively manufactured resins (Crowntec, CT and VarseoSmile Crown Plus, VS) and 3 subtractively manufactured materials (a reinforced composite (Brilliant Crios, BC), a polymer-infiltrated ceramic network (Enamic, VE), and a feldspathic ceramic (Mark II, VM)) were used to fabricate disk-shaped specimens (Ø10×1-mm) (n = 10). Surface roughness, Vickers microhardness, and color coordinates were measured after polishing, while surface roughness was also measured before polishing. Specimens were then subjected to 25000 cycles of brushing and 10000 cycles of coffee thermal cycling, and measurements were repeated after each time interval. Color difference (ΔE00 ) and relative translucency parameter (RTP) were calculated. Robust analysis of variance test was used to evaluate surface roughness, ΔE00 , and RTP data, while generalized linear model analysis was used for microhardness data (α = 0.05).

RESULTS

Material type and time interval interaction affected tested parameters (p ≤ 0.002). In addition, material type affected all parameters (p < 0.001) other than surface roughness (p = 0.051), and time interval affected surface roughness and microhardness values (p < 0.001). Tested materials mostly had their highest surface roughness before polishing (p ≤ 0.026); however, there was no clear trend regarding the roughness of materials within different time intervals along with ΔE00 and RTP values within materials or time intervals. VS and CT had the lowest microhardness regardless of the time interval, while the remaining materials were listed as VM, VE, and BC in decreasing order (p < 0.001). Coffee thermal cycling only reduced the microhardness of VM (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Tested additively manufactured resins can be considered more susceptible to simulated brushing and coffee thermal cycling than the other materials, given the fact that their surface roughness and ΔE00 values were higher than previously reported acceptability thresholds and because they had the lowest microhardness after all procedures were complete.

Anti-adherent activity of nano-coatings deposited by thermionic vacuum arc plasma on C. albicans biofilm formation

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to analyze the anti-adherent activity of nano-coatings deposited by Thermionic Vacuum Arc plasma on C. albicans ATCC 10231 biofilm.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 80 disc-shaped (2 × 10 mm) polymethymethacrylate samples were prepared and divided into four groups with 10 samples in each group (Control, ZnO, SnO2, Ag) (n = 10). Using thermionic vacuum arc plasma, they were coated with ZnO, SnO2, and Ag. 3-(4,5-dimethyl-thiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) and Crystal Viole (CV) assays were conducted for biofilm quantification. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to observe biofilm images of C. albicans biofilm.

RESULTS

MTT and CV mean values differ statistically significantly between all groups (p ⩽ 0.05). The SnO2 group had the lowest mean value, whereas the control group received the highest value.

CONCLUSION

SnO2 coating shown greater anti-adherent activity than either metal oxides. C. albicans biofilm formation on denture base surfaces is reduced following Thermionic Vacuum Arc plasma coating with SnO2.

The Antibacterial and Antifungal Activity of Chlorhexidine Diacetate Incorporated into Acrylic Resins Used in Provisional Restorations

Objective

The surface of provisional restorations applied before conventional or implant- supported fixed restorations may cause bacterial or fungal biofilm formation. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of acrylic resins used in provisional restorations modified with chlorhexidine diacetate.

Methods

120 cylindrical, auto-polymerized resin samples modified with chlorhexidine diacetate were prepared at concentrations of 0 (control), 1, 3, 5 wt %. The antimicrobial activity was examined against Streptococcus mutans, Enterococcus faecalis, and Candida albicans using Crystal Violet quantification, MTT assay, and Scanning Electron Microscopy. Data were analyzed by ANOVA and paired sample t-tests (α=0.05).

Results

The addition of chlorhexidine diacetate influenced the growth rate and metabolic activity of microorganisms. The antimicrobial effect against C. albicans and S. mutans statistically increased with the percentage of chlorhexidine diacetate. E. faecalis bacteria were less affected by chlorhexidine diacetate compared to other pathogens.

Conclusion

It has been shown that the effectiveness of CHDA in inhibiting the proliferation of microorganisms correlated positively with increasing concentration levels. More research is needed to confirm the impact of different chlorhexidine concentrations on the mechanical properties, clinical efficacy, and antimicrobial properties of CDHA.

Evaluation of bite force, quality of life, and patients' satisfaction in elderly edentulous patients using implant overdentures

Purpose

This study aimed to compare the bite force (BF) between complete dentures and implant overdentures (IODs) retained by two mandibular implants. Additionally, we evaluated the quality of life (QoL) and patient satisfaction among individuals using IODs. In addition, the effects of demographic parameters such as age and sex, and clinical parameters such as implant length, implant diameter, attachment height, attachment color, and interimplant distance on BF, QoL, and patient satisfaction were evaluated.

Materials and methods

A total of 51 edentulous patients rehabilitated with the maxillary complete dentures and mandibular IODs retained by two implants were included in this study. BF was measured using a force meter pre- and post-implant in the same patients. Oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) was assessed with the Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP-14) and patient satisfaction was assessed with the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) questionnaires.

Results

It was found that BF values were statistically higher for IODs than complete dentures (P < .001). In terms of attachment height of the OHIP scores, there was a significant difference in the psychological disability and social disability domains (P < .05). When examining the change in patient satisfaction as a function of sex, it was found that mandibular retention satisfaction differed significantly by sex (P < .05), but there was no significant difference in the other domains.

Conclusion

Within the limitations of this study, it was observed that the BF increased after the use of IODs. Several factors, including age, interimplant distance, attachment height, and attachment color, were found to impact OHRQoL. Sex and implant diameter were identified as factors affecting patient satisfaction.

Could Helium Plasma Treatment be a Novel Approach to Prevent the Biofilm Formation of Candida albicans?

There is no definitive method to prevent Candida albicans (C. albicans) biofilm formation on polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) surfaces. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of Helium plasma treatment (before the application of removable dentures to the patient) to prevent or reduce C. albicans ATCC 10,231 the anti-adherent activity, viability, and biofilm formation on PMMA surfaces. One hundred disc-shaped PMMA samples (2 mm × 10 mm) were prepared. The samples were randomly divided into 5 surface groups and treated with different concentrations of Helium plasma: G I: Control group (untreated), G II: 80% Helium plasma-treated group, G III: 85% Helium plasma-treated group, G IV: 90% Helium plasma-treated group, G V: 100% Helium plasma-treated group. C. albicans viability and biofilm formations were evaluated using 2 methods: MTT (3-(4,5-dimethyl thiazolyl-2)-2, 5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) assays and Crystal Violet (CV) staining. The surface morphology and C. albicans biofilm images were observed with scanning electron microscopy. The Helium plasma-treated PMMA groups (G II, G III, G IV, G V) observed a significant reduction in C. albicans cell viability and biofilm formation compared with the control group. Treating PMMA surfaces with different concentrations of Helium plasma prevents C. albicans viability and biofilm formation. This study suggests that Helium plasma treatment might be an effective strategy in modifying PMMA surfaces to prevent denture stomatitis formation.

Influence of polishing technique and coffee thermal cycling on the surface roughness and color stability of additively and subtractively manufactured resins used for definitive restorations

PURPOSE

To evaluate how different polishing techniques and coffee thermal cycling effect the surface roughness and stainability of additively and subtractively manufactured resins used for definitive prostheses.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Two additively manufactured composite resins (Crowntec, CT and VarseoSmile Crown Plus, VS) and a subtractively manufactured resin nanoceramic (Cerasmart, CS) were used to fabricate 90 rectangular-shaped specimens (14 × 12 × 1 mm) (n = 30). After baseline surface roughness (R_a ) measurements, specimens were divided into 3 groups based on the polishing technique; conventional polishing with a 2-stage polishing kit (CP) and surface sealant application (Optiglaze, OG or Vita Akzent LC, VA) (n = 10). After polishing, specimens were subjected to 10000 cycles of coffee thermal cycling. R_a and color coordinate measurements were performed after polishing and after coffee thermal cycling. Color difference (ΔE₀₀ ) was calculated. Scanning electron microscope images were taken at each time interval. Kruskal-Wallis or 1-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) were used to evaluate R_a of materials within each polishing-time interval pair and different polishing techniques within each material-time interval pair, while Friedman or repeated measures ANOVA were used to evaluate R_a at different time intervals within each material-polishing pair. ΔE₀₀ was assessed with 2-way ANOVA (α = .05).

RESULTS

Other than VA-after polishing (P = .055), tested materials had significantly different R_a within each polishing-time interval pair (P ≤ .038). When R_a differences among different polishing techniques within each material-time interval pair were considered, CS had differences after coffee thermal cycling, CT had differences before polishing and after coffee thermal cycling, and VS had differences within each time interval (P ≤ .038). When R_a differences among different time intervals within each material-polishing pair were considered, significant differences were observed among all pairs (P ≤ .016), except for CS-VA (P = .695) and VS-VA (P = .300). ΔE₀₀ values were affected by material and polishing technique interaction (P = .007).

CONCLUSIONS

R_a of CS was similar to or lower than the R_a of other materials, regardless of the time interval or polishing technique. CP mostly led to lower R_a than other polishing techniques, whereas VA resulted in a high R_a regardless of the material-time interval pair. Polishing reduced the R_a , while coffee thermal cycling was found to have a small effect. Among tested material-polishing pairs, only CS-VA had moderately unacceptable color change when previously reported threshold values were considered. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Effect of measurement techniques and operators on measured deviations in digital implant scans

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the effect of different measurement techniques and operators on measured deviations in vitro implant scans.

METHODS

A 2-piece system that comprises a healing abutment (HA) and a scan body (SB) was mounted onto an implant at right first molar site of a polymethylmethacrylate mandibular dentate model. Model was digitized by using an industrial scanner (reference model scan, n = 1) and an intraoral scanner (test scan, n = 20). All standard tessellation language files were imported into a 3-dimensional analysis software and superimposed. Three operators with similar experience performed circle-based and point-based deviation analyses (n = 20). Deviations measured with different techniques were compared with paired samples t-test within each operator, while the reliability of the operators was assessed by using F-tests for both technqiues (α = 0.05).

RESULTS

Point-based technique resulted in lower deviations than circle-based technique for all operators (P = .001) with to higher reliability among operators (ICC = 0.438, P = .001). The correlation among the operators was nonsignificant when circle-based technique was used (ICC = 0.114, P = .189).

CONCLUSION

Lower deviations were detected with the point-based technique. In addition, different operators' measurements had higher correlation when point-based technique was used compared with circle-based technique.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Point-based technique may be preferred over circle-based technique for research studies on scan accuracy of implants, given its higher reliability. The accuracy of measured deviations may increase if the number of planes are increased, which can facilitate point generation at different surfaces of the scan body.

Trueness of crowns fabricated by using additively and subtractively manufactured resin-based CAD-CAM materials

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM

Advancements in digital dental technologies have enabled the use of different resin-based materials that can be fabricated either additively or subtractively. However, knowledge on the fabrication trueness of these materials is scarce.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this in vitro study was to investigate the trueness of crowns fabricated by using different resin-based computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD-CAM) materials.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A complete crown for a mandibular right first molar with a 30-μm cement space was designed in standard tessellation language (STL) format. This master STL (MC-STL) was used to fabricate 40 complete crowns with 4 different resin-based CAD-CAM materials and either additive (Crowntec [MS]) or subtractive techniques (Brilliant Crios [BC], breCAM.monoCOM [PMMA], and G-CAM [GR]; n=10). All crowns were digitized with an intraoral scanner (CEREC Primescan SW 5.2) to generate their STL files (TC-STLs). MC-STL and TC-STLs were transferred into a 3-dimensional analysis software program (Medit Link v2.4.4), and a trueness (overall, external, occlusal, intaglio occlusal, and marginal) analysis was performed by using the root mean square (RMS) method. The Kruskal-Wallis and Dunn tests were performed to analyze data (α=.05).

RESULTS

The test groups had significantly different deviations on all surfaces (P≤.001). MS crowns had higher overall (P≤.007) and external surface (P≤.001) deviations than GR and PMMA crowns, while the differences between GR and PMMA crowns were not significant (P≥.441). BC crowns had higher external surface deviations than GR crowns (P=.005), higher occlusal deviations than GR and MS crowns (P≤.007), and higher intaglio occlusal deviations than GR and MS crowns (P≤.009). However, BC crowns had lower marginal deviations than MS and GR crowns (P≤.018).

CONCLUSIONS

The brand of resin-based CAD-CAM materials affected the trueness of crowns. Additively manufactured crowns (MS) mostly had lower overall and external surface trueness than the other groups. Nevertheless, the deviation values of occlusal, intaglio occlusal, and marginal trueness were generally small; thus, the effect of the tested materials on clinical crown fit may be negligible.

Effect of thermal cycling on the flexural strength and hardness of new-generation denture base materials

PURPOSE

To evaluate the flexural strength and Vickers microhardness of different CAD-CAM denture base materials.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Sixty rectangular specimens (64×10×3.3 ±0.2 mm) were fabricated from 3 different denture base materials (G-CAM, Graphene-reinforced polymethylmethacrylate, GC), Ivotion Base (Prepolymerized polymethylmethacrylate, IV), and Denturetec (3D-printed resin, DT) either by using additive (DT) or subtractive manufacturing (IV and GC). Specimens of each group were divided into 2 subgroups (thermal cycled or non-thermal cycled, n = 10/group). Non-thermal cycled specimens were stored in distilled water at 37°C for 24 hours and subjected to 3-point flexural strength test with a universal testing machine. Thermal cycled specimens were initially evaluated for Vickers microhardness and subjected to thermal cycling (10000 cycles at 5-55°C). Vickers microhardness values were re-measured, and the specimens were subjected to 3-point flexural strength test. Data were analyzed by using 2-way analysis of variance and Bonferroni-corrected Tukey honestly significant difference tests (α = .05).

RESULTS

Material type and condition significantly affected flexural strength (P≤.004), whereas their interaction was nonsignificant (P = .778). Overall flexural strength of the materials in decreasing order was GC, IV, and DT (P<.001), regardless of the condition. Material had a higher effect on flexural strength (ηp² = .731) than thermal cycling (ηp² = .142). The effect of the interaction between the material type and thermal cycling on Vickers microhardness was significant (P<.001). GC had the highest microhardness before and after thermal cycling (P<.001). IV had higher microhardness than DT before thermal cycling (P<.001). However, DT and IV showed similar microhardness after thermal cycling (P = .665). Thermal cycling decreased the microhardness of GC and IV (P≤.022), whereas its effect on DT's microhardness was nonsignificant (P = .538). Material type had the highest effect on microhardness (ηp² = .864) followed by the interaction between the main factors (ηp² = .258).

CONCLUSIONS

Graphene-reinforced polymethylmethacrylate had the highest flexural strength and Vickers microhardness values, regardless of thermal cycling. Thermal cycling reduced the flexural strength of all resins. Thermal cycling reduced the microhardness of milled polymethylmethacrylate, but not that of 3D-printed resin. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Influence of atmospheric pressure changes on dentin bond strength of conventional, bulk-fill and single-shade resin composites

INTRODUCTION

The purpose of this study was to investigate the dentin bond strength of composite resins in response to environmental pressure changes.

METHODS

Ninety extracted human molar teeth were used. A mould (3 mm x 4 mm) was adapted on dentin, resin composites (conventional [n = 30] and single-shade composites [Ohmnicroma] [n = 30]) were filled in two increments of 2 mm. The bulk-fill composites (n = 30) were filled with one 4 mm increment. The specimens were stored for 30 days in artificial saliva. The specimens were exposed to hyperbaric pressure (283.6 kPa; 2.8 atmospheres absolute [atm abs]) or hypobaric pressure (34.4 kPa; 0.34 atm abs) once daily for 30 days and the control group was stored at atmospheric pressure for 30 days. The bond strength was tested with a universal testing machine and the failures were examined with a stereomicroscope and scanning electron microscope. Statistical analyses were performed using analysis of variance with post hoc tests, and the Weibull analysis.

RESULTS

Regardless of environmental pressure changes, the bulk-fill composites showed the highest bond strength. There was no significant difference in bond strength between the hypobaric and atmospheric pressure (control) groups after 30 days in all resins. The hyperbaric group showed lower bond strength for bulk-fill composites than the control group.

CONCLUSIONS

Dentists experienced in diving and aviation medicine should definitely take part in the initial and periodic medical examinations of divers and aircrew to give appropriate treatment. Bulk-fill composite resins can be preferred in divers and aircrew due to high bond strength values.

Surface Roughness and Color Stability of 3D-Printed Denture Base Materials after Simulated Brushing and Thermocycling

Three-dimensional (3D) printing is increasingly used to fabricate denture base materials. However, information on the effect of simulated brushing and thermocycling on the surface roughness and color stability of 3D-printed denture base materials is lacking. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of brushing and thermocycling on the surface roughness and color stability of 3D-printed denture base materials and to compare with those of milled and heat-polymerized denture base resins. Disk-shaped specimens (Ø 10 mm × 2 mm) were prepared from 4 different denture base resins (NextDent Denture 3D+ (ND); Denturetec (SC); Polident d.o.o (PD); Promolux (CNV)) (n = 10). Surface roughness (R_a) values were measured before and after polishing with a profilometer. Initial color coordinates were measured by using a spectrophotometer after polishing. Specimens were then consecutively subjected to simulated brushing (10,000 cycles), thermocycling (10,000 cycles), and brushing (10,000 cycles) again. R_a and color coordinates were measured after each interval. Color differences (ΔE₀₀) between each interval were calculated and these values were further evaluated considering previously reported perceptibility (1.72 units) and acceptability (4.08 units) thresholds. Data were analyzed with Friedman, Kruskal-Wallis, and Mann-Whitney U tests (α = 0.05). R_a (p ≥ 0.051) and ΔE₀₀ (p ≥ 0.061) values among different time intervals within each material were similar. Within each time interval, significant differences in R_a (p ≤ 0.002) and ΔE₀₀ values (p ≤ 0.001) were observed among materials. Polishing, brushing, and thermocycling resulted in acceptable surface roughness for all materials that were either similar to or below 0.2 µm. Color of ND printed resin was affected by brushing and thermocycling. All materials had acceptable color stability when reported thresholds are considered.

The effects of metal nanoparticles incorporation on the mechanical properties of denture base acrylic resin

Purpose

The aim of this study was to examine the flexural strength of acrylic resin base material incorporated with iron, copper, and titanium nanoparticles.

Materials and methods

Seventy bars of samples (65x10x2.5 mm3) were divided into seven groups. Acrylic samples were prepared according to the manufacturer's instructions. Fe2O3, CuO and TiO2 nanoparticles were manually added in a proportion of 1wt% and 3wt% to the heat-polymerized acrylic resin. The Universal Testing Machine was used for 3-point flexural test of 5 mm/min force. ANOVA and Weibull analyses were used for the statistical analyses.

Results

A statistical difference was found between the nanoparticle-added group and the control group. The highest mean value was observed for the 1wt% TiO2 added group, (84.99 MPa) and the lowest value was for the 3wt% CuO added group (71.32 MPa) (p<0,001). The 3wt% Fe2O3 and CuO added groups showed lower values than the control group.

Conclusion

The incorporation of TiO2 nanoparticles into acrylic resin in a proportion of 1wt% increased the flexural strength values of the resins. Within the limitations, the nanoparticle addition to acrylic resins could improve the mechanical properties; however, when the percentage of nanoparticle addition increases, the flexural strength values of the acrylic resins decrease.

Effect of Potassium Aluminum Sulfate Application on the Viability of Fibroblasts on a CAD-CAM Feldspathic Ceramic before and after Thermocycling

Potassium aluminum sulfate (alum) is a known adjuvant, which has been used as a mordant in textile industry for color fixation. This material has potential to be incorporated into dentistry for color stability, yet its toxicity first needs to be evaluated. The present study aimed to evaluate the cytotoxic potential of potassium aluminum sulfate (alum) on fibroblasts when applied onto feldspathic ceramic before and after thermocycling. Forty-eight feldspathic ceramic specimens were divided into four groups (FC: no alum application or thermocycling; FCT: thermocycling without alum application; FA: alum application without thermocycling; FAT: alum application and thermocycling) (n = 12). Cell viability was assessed by using a tetrazolium salt 3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5-diphnyltetrazolium bromide assay at 24 and 72 h, and cell cultures without any ceramic specimens served as control (C). One sample from each material group was further analyzed with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX). Cell viability at different time intervals within each group was analyzed with Friedman tests, while Kruskal−Wallis tests were used to compare the test groups within each time interval. Pairwise comparisons were further resolved by using Wilcoxon tests (a = 0.05). C had lower (p = 0.01) and FA had higher (p = 0.019) cell viability after 72 h. After 24 h, the highest cell viability was observed in C (p ≤ 0.036). After 72 h, the differences between C and FA, C and FAT, FC and FA, and FCT and FAT were nonsignificant (p > 0.05). Cell viability was not affected by alum application or thermocycling at any time interval (p ≥ 0.631). EDX analysis showed an increase in potassium concentration in FA and FAT when compared with FC and FCT. Regardless of the time interval, alum application onto feldspathic ceramic and thermocycling did not influence the cell viability.

Enhancement of Adhesive Bonding Properties of Polyetheretherketone-based Materials using Plasma Surface Modifications

PURPOSE

To investigate the effects of plasma surface treatments and methyl methacrylate-based adhesives on polyetheretherketone.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

One hundred ten polyetheretherketone specimens were fabricated and divided into five pretreatment groups: group ArP, 100% argon plasma; group ArOP, 50% argon + 50% oxygen plasma; group ArNP, 50% argon + 50% nitrogen plasma; group ArONP, 75% argon + 12.5% oxygen + 12.5% nitrogen plasma; group C, control. Atomic force microscopy and scanning electron microscopy were performed after surface treatments. After topographical surface examinations, Visio.link primer (Bredent) (n = 10) was applied to the surface of half of the samples in each group (n = 20) and the veneering resin was polymerized onto the polyetheretherketone. The shear bond strengths were measured using a universal test machine.

RESULTS

The mean bond strengths of the Visio.link primer applied to group ArP and group ArONP (13.9 and 13.6 MPa, respectively) were statistically significantly higher than that of group C (9.0 MPa). The average shear bond strength of the Visio.link subgroups was higher than that of the Visio.link subgroups (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The use of a methyl methacrylate-based adhesive (Visiolink) provides bonding between polyetheretherketone-veneering composites. Different plasma treatments without primer application had no significant effect on bonding.

Coloration of provisional restoration materials: a comparison of the effects of mouth rinses and green tea

Purpose

The present study aimed to evaluate the color stability of provisional restorative materials stored in different mouth rinses and green tea extract for 14 days.

Materials and methods

Forty cylinders of fixed provisional restoration material of 15-mm diameter and 2-mm thickness were prepared. The samples were separated into four storage solutions (three different mouth rinses and green tea) (n=10). The values of L*, a*, and b* were determined before and after storage in the solutions using a spectrophotometer, and the ΔE* value was calculated. The effect of mouth rinses and green tea extract on the color change of provisional restoration materials was determined with one-way analyses of variance. The Tamhane multiple comparison analysis was used to determine the differences between the groups (p<0.05).

Results

The color stability of the provisional restoration materials varies depending on the solution. Listerine mouth rinse showed more color change than Sensodyne or Colgate did. Minimal color change was found in the green tea solution.

Conclusion

The effect of mouth rinses on the color stability of fixed temporary restorative materials is remarkable. As green tea shows less color change, it can be suggested as an alternative to mouth rinses.

Effect of selective infiltration etching on the bond strength between zirconia and resin luting agents

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the shear bond strength of resin cements to zirconia treated with the selective infiltration etching technique (SIE).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Forty-seven zirconia specimens were prepared with a sequence of silicon carbide abrasives, cleaned in an ultrasonic bath. Three samples were separated for atomic force microscope (AFM) analyses (one nontreated for control, one sandblasted, and one selective infiltration etched) and the remaining were randomly distributed in four groups, according to the combination of surface treatment and resin cement: group 1a (sandblasting + Variolink II), group 1b (sandblasting + Panavia SA Plus), group 2a (SIE + Variolink II), group 2b (SIE + Panavia SA Plus). A composite resin cylinder (3 mm × 3 mm) was cemented to the zirconia surface, as per each group's specific protocol. After storing 24 hours in distilled water at 37°C, the specimens were tested for shear bond strength and the results were subjected to statistical analysis.

RESULTS

At 24 hours, the highest SBS values were observed in group 2b, where the SIE technique was used in conjunction with Panavia SA Plus. Lowest values were found in group 1a. Increased surface roughness was observed with SIE.

CONCLUSIONS

SIE significantly enhanced the resin bond strength to zirconia. However, cement selection was also an important factor, for both surface treatments tested.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Use of SIE method combined with MDP monomer containing resin cement can provide clinically acceptable bond strength between zirconia and resin cement.

Cytotoxicity of long-term denture base materials

Introduction:

The aim of this study was to evaluate the cytotoxic effect of various denture base materials following four different aging periods.

Methods:

In total, 48 disc-shaped specimens per each group were prepared: Group I: acrylic resin polymerized in cool water and heated up to 100°C over 45 min and boiled for 15 min; Group II: acrylic resin polymerized under pressure in 40°C–45°C water bath for 10 min; Group III: autopolymerized hard relining resin Cold Liner Rebase; Group IV: autopolymerized hard relining resin Truliner; Group V: soft relining resin DentuSil. Then the specimens were stored in water for 24 h or 15 days, or thermocycled 2500 times or 10,000 times. Cytotoxicity was evaluated with 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay using L929 cells after 72-h cell incubation. Cell viability percentages were counted and statistical analyses were performed. The results were also evaluated according to ISO standard 10993-5.

Results:

All materials showed similar cell viability percentages following 24-h water storage and 2500 and 10,000 thermal cycles. Following 15-day water storage, a statistically significant difference was observed between the materials. Comparisons of the aging periods for each material showed statistically significant differences. Groups III and IV showed moderately cytotoxic effect following 15-day water storage. The remaining groups showed slightly cytotoxic or non-cytotoxic effect.

Discussion:

Polymerizing acrylic resins under pressure can be an alternative to conventional polymerizing to ensure a faster denture repair while providing similar cell viability values. Heat-cured acrylic resins provide higher cell viability than hard chairside lining materials in a 15-day period.

In vitro shear bond strength between fluorinated zirconia ceramic and resin cements

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficiency of a gas-phase fluorination method under different fluorination periods through using two resin cements.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

84 zirconia specimens in dimensions of 5 mm × 5 mm × 2 mm were prepared and surface treated with 50 µm aluminum oxide particles or gas phase fluorination for 2 min, 5 min, or 10 min. One specimen in each group was surface analyzed under scanning electron microscope. The remaining specimens were bonded to composite cylinders in dimensions of 2 mm diameter and 3 mm high with Panavia SA Plus or Variolink N. Then, the specimens were stored in 37℃ distilled water for 24 hours and shear bond strength test was applied at a speed of 1 mm/min.

RESULTS

The highest shear bond strength values were observed in the samples fluorinated for 5 minutes and cemented with Panavia SA Plus. Variolink N did not elicit any statistical differences between surface treatments. Panavia SA Plus resin cement and Variolink N resin cements featured statistically significant difference in shear bond strength values only in the case of 5 minutes of fluorination treatment.

CONCLUSION

According to the results of this study, application of 5 minutes of fluorination with 10-methacryloyloxydecyl dihydrogen phosphate monomer (MDP) containing Panavia SA Plus resin cement increased the resin bond strength of zirconia. Fluorination of the zirconia surface using conventional resin cement, Variolink N, did not lead to an increase in bond strength.

Influence of nano alumina coating on the flexural bond strength between zirconia and resin cement

PURPOSE

The purpose of this in vitro study is to examine the effects of a nano-structured alumina coating on the adhesion between resin cements and zirconia ceramics using a four-point bending test.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

100 pairs of zirconium bar specimens were prepared with dimensions of 25 mm × 2 mm × 5 mm and cementation surfaces of 5 mm × 2 mm. The samples were divided into 5 groups of 20 pairs each. The groups are as follows: Group I (C) – Control with no surface modification, Group II (APA) – airborne-particle-abrasion with 110 µm high-purity aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃) particles, Group III (ROC) – airborne-particle-abrasion with 110 µm silica modified aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃ + SiO₂) particles, Group IV (TCS) – tribochemical silica coated with Al₂O₃ particles, and Group V (AlC) – nano alumina coating. The surface modifications were assessed on two samples selected from each group by atomic force microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. The samples were cemented with two different self-adhesive resin cements. The bending bond strength was evaluated by mechanical testing.

RESULTS

According to the ANOVA results, surface treatments, different cement types, and their interactions were statistically significant (P<.05). The highest flexural bond strengths were obtained in nanostructured alumina coated zirconia surfaces (50.4 MPa) and the lowest values were obtained in the control group (12.00 MPa), both of which were cemented using a self-adhesive resin cement.

CONCLUSION

The surface modifications tested in the current study affected the surface roughness and flexural bond strength of zirconia. The nano alumina coating method significantly increased the flexural bond strength of zirconia ceramics.

Effectiveness of disinfectants on the adherence of Candida albicans to denture base resins with different surface textures

The aim of the present study was to compare the effects of some disinfectants, including ethanol extract of propolis (EEP), on the adhesion of Candida albicans to denture base resins. Seventy-two acrylic resin samples were prepared, half of which was polished and the other half was roughened. C. albicans strain ATCC 10231 was incubated on Sabouraud dextrose agar (SDA) at 37°C for 48 h. The adhesion period was completed by keeping the cells in this suspension for 90 min at 37°C. Specimens were then immersed in the following solutions: 1%, 2%, and 5% sodium hypochlorite; 4% chlorhexidine gluconate; and 10% EEP. Quantification of the antifungal activity of the chemical solutions was performed using the colorimetric MTT (3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) assay test. One-way ANOVA and post-hoc Tukey tests were performed to evaluate the effectiveness of chemical agents. Polished and roughened surfaces were compared using independent sample t-test. The mean surface roughness value was 0.35 (±0.04) µm for the polished group and 1.2 (±0.2) µm for the roughened group. The contact angles of both surfaces showed statistically significant difference, and 10% EEP solution exhibited significantly less removal of adherent viable C. albicans cells in both groups. All forms of sodium hypochlorite solutions yielded higher efficiency than 4% chlorhexidine gluconate and EEP solutions (P < 0.05). (J Oral Sci 58, 431-437, 2016).

In Vitro Cytotoxicity of Maxillofacial Silicone Elastomers: Effect of Nano-particles

PURPOSE

Silicone elastomers are generally used for maxillofacial extraoral prostheses. The purpose of this in vitro study was to evaluate the cytotoxicity of different kinds of nanoparticles added to two types of maxillofacial elastomers.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A-2000 and A-2006 silicone elastomers were used. The silicone specimens were divided into eight groups according to the presence of additional nanoparticles (n = 18). The following represents the groups in the study: Group A: A-2000 silicone (control group); Group B: A-2006 silicone (control group); Group C: A-2000 silicone and the addition of titanium dioxide (TiO₂ ); Group D: A-2006 silicone and the addition of TiO₂ ; Group E: A-2000 silicone and the addition of fumed silica; Group F: A-2006 silicone and the addition of fumed silica; Group G: A-2000 silicone and the addition of silaned silica; Group H: A-2006 silicone and the addition of silaned silica. A paired sample t-test was used to analyze the cytotoxicity of each group after 24, 48, and 72 hours.

RESULTS

Based on the results of the 24-hour analysis, the biocompatibility values of the (A-2006) fumed silica group were higher than those of the control groups. There was no statistically significant difference in A-2006 and A-2000 groups. The cytotoxicity values of the control groups and TiO₂ (A-2000 silicone) elastomer groups increased at all test times; however, the cytotoxicity values of the TiO₂ (A-2006), fumed silica (A-2006), silaned silica (A-2006), fumed silica (A-2000), and silaned silica (A-2000) groups increased significantly only from 24 to 48 hours.

CONCLUSION

Nanoparticles of TiO₂ , fumed silica, and silaned silica added to a commercial silicone-based elastomer used for fabrication of maxillofacial prostheses are nontoxic.

Biomechanical 3-dimensional finite element analysis of obturator protheses retained with zygomatic and dental implants in maxillary defects

Background

The objective of this study was to investigate the stress distribution in the bone around zygomatic and dental implants for 3 different implant-retained obturator prostheses designs in a Aramany class IV maxillary defect using 3-dimensional finite element analysis (FEA).

Material\Methods

A 3-dimensional finite element model of an Aramany class IV defect was created. Three different implant-retained obturator prostheses were modeled: model 1 with 1 zygomatic implant and 1 dental implant, model 2 with 1 zygomatic implant and 2 dental implants, and model 3 with 2 zygomatic implants. Locator attachments were used as a superstructure. A 150-N load was applied 3 different ways. Qualitative analysis was based on the scale of maximum principal stress; values obtained through quantitative analysis are expressed in MPa.

Results

In all loading conditions, model 3 (when compared models 1 and 2) showed the lowest maximum principal stress value. Model 3 is the most appropirate reconstruction in Aramany class IV maxillary defects. Two zygomatic implants can reduce the stresses in model 3. The distribution of stresses on prostheses were more rational with the help of zygoma implants, which can distribute the stresses on each part of the maxilla.

Conclusions

Aramany class IV obturator prosthesis placement of 2 zygomatic implants in each side of the maxilla is more advantageous than placement of dental implants. In the non-defective side, increasing the number of dental implants is not as suitable as zygomatic implants.

Resin cementation of zirconia ceramics with different bonding agents

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of sandblasting and different chemical bonding agents on shear bond strength of zirconia and conventional resin cement. In this study, 35 zirconia specimens were treated as follows: Group I: control; Group II: sandblasting; Group III: sandblasting + Monobond S; Group IV: sandblasting + Monobond Plus; Group V: sandblasting + Z-Prime Plus. The specimens in each group were bonded with conventional composite resin cement Variolink II. After cementation, specimens were stored in distilled water (at 37 °C) for 24 h and shear test was performed. The highest shear bond strength values were observed in Groups IV and V. The lowest shear bond strength values were observed in Group I. Using 10-methacryloyloxy-decyl dihydrogenphosphate monomer-containing priming agents, e.g. Monobond Plus and Z-PRIME Plus, combined with sandblasting can be an effective method for resin bonding of zirconia restorations.

Effects of rapamycin treatment on pancreatic fibrosis, cellular apoptosis and oxidative stress in experimental chronic pancreatitis model

PURPOSE

Rapamycin reduces hepatic fibrosis by inhibiting hepatic stellate cell activation. The present study investigated whether rapamycin treatment could modify the degree of fibrosis, cellular apoptosis and oxidative stress (OS) in an experimental model of CP.

METHODS

Fifty-five male, Sprague-Dawley rats weighing 200-400g were randomized into four groups. CP was induced by intraductal trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (TNBS) infusion in group A (n = 15) and group B (n = 15). Group C (n = 15) received intraductal TNBS and was killed for histologic confirmation at four weeks. Group D (n = 10) received intraductal saline instead of TNBS. Group A and group D received oral rapamycin (2 mg/kg/d) for two weeks after CP was induced while group B received oral tap water instead of rapamycin. Blood and pancreatic tissue specimens were collected and oxidative stress parameters, fibrosis and cellular apoptosis were determined.

RESULTS

Tissue and blood malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were significantly lower in rapamycin treated group compared to controls (p < 0.001). Superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathion peroxidase (GSH-Px) activities were also significantly higher in the active treatment group (p < 0.001 for both). Tissue and blood MDA, SOD, GSH-Px measurements was similar in rapamycin group and pancreatic cannulation group (p > 0.05). Histopathologic fibrosis scores were similar in rapamycin and control groups. Apoptotic cell counts tended to be lower in rapamycin treated animals.

CONCLUSIONS

Administration of rapamycin alleviated OS and, in part, prevented apoptotic cell death in experimental CP, but did not reduce fibrosis.

The protective effects of taurine on experimental acute pancreatitis in a rat model

The aim of this study was to investigate the protective effects of taurine (Tau) on experimental acute pancreatitis (AP) in a rat model by measuring cytokines and oxidant stress markers.

Forty rats were randomly divided into four groups: sham, AP, Tau and AP + Tau. AP was induced with sodium taurocholate. No treatment was given to the AP. All rats were killed 5 days later. Pancreatic tissues of rats and blood samples were obtained.

Tau treatment significantly decreased serum amylase activity ( p < 0.001), total injury score ( p < 0.001), malondialdehyde levels ( p < 0.001) and myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity ( p < 0.001). There was no significant difference between the Tau and AP + Tau groups in serum and pancreatic tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-6 levels ( p = 1.000). Histopathologic scores in the AP + Tau and Tau groups were significantly lower compared with the AP group (both p < 0.001).

These results showed that Tau reduces lipid peroxidation, amylase and MPO activities and the concentrations of proinflammatory cytokines secondary to AP and also increases superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase activities in rats with sodium taurocholate-induced AP. It also has a marked ameliorative effect at histopathologic lesions. With these effects, Tau protects the cells from oxidative damage, reduces inflammation and promotes regression of pancreatic damage.

Activation status of integrated stress response pathways in neurones and astrocytes of HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND) cortex

C. Akay, K. A. Lindl, N. Shyam, B. Nabet, Y. Goenaga‐Vazquez, J. Ruzbarsky, Y. Wang, D. L. Kolson and K. L. Jordan‐Sciutto (2012) Neuropathology and Applied Neurobiology38, 175–200

Activation status of integrated stress response pathways in neurones and astrocytes of HIV‐associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND) cortex

Aims: Combined anti‐retroviral therapy (cART) has led to a reduction in the incidence of HIV‐associated dementia (HAD), a severe motor/cognitive disorder afflicting HIV(+) patients. However, the prevalence of subtler forms of neurocognitive dysfunction, which together with HAD are termed HIV‐associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND), continues to escalate in the post‐cART era. The microgliosis, astrogliosis, dendritic damage, and synaptic and neuronal loss observed in autopsy cases suggest an underlying neuroinflammatory process, due to the neurotoxic factors released by HIV‐infected/activated macrophages/microglia in the brain, might underlie the pathogenesis of HAND in the post‐cART era. These factors are known to induce the integrated stress response (ISR) in several neurodegenerative diseases; we have previously shown that BiP, an indicator of general ISR activation, is upregulated in cortical autopsy tissue from HIV‐infected patients. The ISR is composed of three pathways, each with its own initiator protein: PERK, IRE1α and ATF6. Methods: To further elucidate the specific ISR pathways activated in the central nervous system of HAND patients, we examined the protein levels of several ISR proteins, including ATF6, peIF2α and ATF4, in cortical tissue from HIV‐infected patients. Results: The ISR does not respond in an all‐or‐none fashion in HAND, but rather demonstrates a nuanced activation pattern. Specifically, our studies implicate the ATF6 pathway of the ISR as a more likely candidate than the PERK pathway for increases in BiP levels in astrocytes. Conclusion: These findings begin to characterize the nature of the ISR response in HAND and provide potential targets for therapeutic intervention in this disease.

Association of GPX1 polymorphism, GPX activity and prostate cancer risk

Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer in men worldwide. Although the aetiology of this disease remains largely unclear, several lines of evidence suggest that oxidative stress plays a role in prostate carcinogenesis. The antioxidant enzyme glutathione peroxidase 1 (GPX1) is part of the enzymatic antioxidant defence, preventing oxidative damage to DNA, proteins and lipids by detoxifying hydrogen and lipid peroxides that may contribute to prostate cancer development. Some studies indicate an association between GPX1 Pro198Leu polymorphism and an increased risk of cancer. The purpose of the present study was to determine the possible association of GPX1 Pro198Leu polymorphism and erythrocyte GPX activity with the risk of developing prostate cancer and to clarify whether erythrocyte GPX activity levels were correlated with the GPX1 Pro198Leu genotype in the Turkish population. The GPX1 Pro198Leu genotype was determined in 33 prostate cancer patients and 91 control individuals. As evident from our results, there was no difference between genotype and/or allele frequencies in prostate cancer patients and controls. No significant difference was found in GPX1 genotype or allele frequency between aggressive and non-aggressive prostate cancer patients. It can be suggested with these findings that individual susceptibility of prostate cancer may be modulated by GPX1 polymorphism, but it needs further studies.

Site-specific hyperphosphorylation of pRb in HIV-induced neurotoxicity

HIV-Associated Neurocognitive Disorder (HAND) remains a serious complication of HIV infection, despite combined Anti-Retroviral Therapy (cART). Neuronal dysfunction and death are attributed to soluble factors released from activated and/or HIV-infected macrophages. Most of these factors affect the cell cycle machinery, determining cellular outcomes even in the absence of cell division. One of the earliest events in cell cycle activation is hyperphosphorylation of the retinoblastoma protein, pRb (ppRb). We and others have previously shown increased ppRb expression in the CNS of patients with HIV encephalitis (HIVE) and in neurons in an in vitro model of HIV-induced neurodegeneration. However, trophic factors also lead to an increase in neuronal ppRb with an absence of cell death, suggesting that, depending on the stimulus, hyperphosphorylation of pRb can have different outcomes on neuronal fate. pRb has multiple serines and threonines targeted for phosphorylation by distinct kinases, and we hypothesized that different stimuli may target separate sites for phosphorylation. Thus, to determine whether pRb is differentially phosphorylated in response to different stimuli and whether any of these sites is preferentially phosphorylated in association with HIV-induced neurotoxicity, we treated primary rat mixed cortical cultures with trophic factors, BDNF or RANTES, or with the neurotoxic factor, N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA), or with supernatants containing factors secreted by HIV-infected monocyte-derived macrophages (HIV-MDM), our in vitro model of HIV-induced neurodegeneration. We found that, while BDNF and RANTES phosphorylated serine807/811 and serine608 in vitro, treatment with HIV-MDM did not, even though these trophic factors are components of HIV-MDM. Rather, HIV-MDM targets a specific phosphorylation site, serine795, of pRb for phosphorylation in vitro and this ppRb isoform is also increased in HIV-infected brains in vivo. Further, overexpression of a nonphosphorylatable pRb (ppRb S795A) attenuated HIV-MDM-induced neurotoxicity. These findings indicate that HIV-infection in the brain is associated with site-specific hyperphosphorylation of pRb at serine795, which is not induced by other tested stimuli, and that this phosphorylation contributes to neuronal death in this disease, demonstrating that specific pRb sites are differentially targeted and may have diverse impacts on the viability of post-mitotic neurons.

Expression of the endoplasmic reticulum stress response marker, BiP, in the central nervous system of HIV-positive individuals

The prevalence of HIV-associated neurocognitive impairment (NCI), which includes HIV-associated dementia (HAD) and minor cognitive and motor disorder (MCMD), has been increasing. HIV-infected and/or activated macrophages/microglia in the brain initiate the neurodegeneration seen in HIV-associated NCI via soluble neurotoxic mediators, including reactive oxygen species, viral proteins and excitotoxins. Neurotoxic factors released by macrophages/microglia injure neurones directly and alter astrocytic homeostatic functions, which can lead to excitotoxicity and oxidative stress-mediated neuronal injury. Often, cells respond to oxidative stress by initiating the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress response. Thus, we hypothesize that ER stress response is activated in HIV-infected cortex. We used immunofluorescence and immunoblotting to assess expression patterns of the ER stress proteins, BiP and ATF6, in HIV-positive cortical autopsy tissue. Additionally, we performed immunofluorescence using cell type-specific markers to examine BiP staining in different cell types, including neurones, astrocytes and macrophages/microglia. We observed a significant increase in BiP expression by both immunoblotting and immunofluorescence in HIV-positive cortex compared with control tissue. Additionally, phenotypic analysis of immunofluorescence showed cell type-specific increases in BiP levels in neurones and astrocytes. Further, ATF-6beta, an ER stress response initiator, is up-regulated in the same patient group, as assessed by immunoblotting. These results suggest that ER stress response is activated in HIV-infected cortex. Moreover, data presented here indicate for the first time that numbers of macrophages/microglia increase in brains of MCMD patients, as has been observed in HAD.

Antioxidant system activation in prostate cancer

The activities of glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) and the levels of copper, zinc, and malondialdehyde were determined in 21 age-, sex-, and body-mass-index-matched prostate cancer patients; 50 patients diagnosed with benign prostatic obstruction (BPO) were compared to 50 healthy male subjects acting as controls. The patients were divided into two groups depending on the stage of the disease (group 1 [organ-confined] and group II [advanced disease]) and into three subgroups according to differentiation criteria: subgroup A (n = 5, Gleason sum 2-4, well differentiated); subgroup B (n = 9, Gleason sum 5-7, moderately differentiated), and subgroup C (n = 7, Gleason sum 8-10, poorly differentiated). The MDA levels were higher and the antioxidant activity and Zn levels lower in the prostate cancer groups than in the healthy control and BPO groups. These results confirm the value of therapies aimed at increasing the antioxidant capacity and encourage the use of plasma and erythrocyte Zn levels in the differential diagnosis of BPO and prostate cancer. The MDA levels can be used in the diagnosis and follow-up of prostate cancer.

Oxidative stress in patients undergoing high-dose chemotherapy plus peripheral blood stem cell transplantation

Chemotherapy and radiation therapy are associated with increased formation of reactive oxygen species and depletion of critical plasma and tissue antioxidants. In patients undergoing high-dose chemotherapy, the plasma antioxidant concentration has been shown to decrease. However, these studies in which the oxidative stress status were investigated have a small number of patients and they are heterogeneous. In this study, the changes in certain trace elements together with oxidative stress parameters were investigated in 36 patients who had undergone autologous stem cell transplantation because of solid and hematological malignancies. Blood samples of the patients were examined before the high-dose chemotherapy (baseline), before stem cell transplantation (day -1), and after stem cell transplantation on day 1, 3, and 6. Erythrocyte zinc, silver, and iron levels were measured by atomic absorption spectrophotometry; malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) levels were measured by UV-vis spectrophotometry. After high-dose chemotherapy, significant increases in the levels of MDA, GSH-Px, and SOD were observed. On the other hand, Cu levels remained the same while the levels of erythrocyte Zn and Fe were increased. Significant correlation was observed among MDA, GSH-Px, and SOD (p<0.05). High-dose chemotherapy gives rise to an increase in the oxidative stress and the reactive oxygen species. Standard parenteral nutrition protocols were found to be insufficient to lower this stress.

Effect of hyperbaric oxygen on experimental acute distal colitis

It has been demonstrated that hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) is useful as an adjunctive therapy for Crohn's disease. However, its effects on ulcerative colitis have not been investigated. In the present study, HBO was tested for acetic acid-induced colitis, and antioxidant systems were evaluated to clarify its possible mode of action. Thirty-six Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into three groups: sham control (Group I), colitis induced by acetic acid without any therapy (Group II), colitis induced by acetic acid and treated with HBO (Group III). HBO was given for 5 days, 2 sessions per day at 2.5-fold absolute atmosphere pressure (ATA) for a period of 90 min in rats in which colitis had been induced (Group III). Rats were sacrificed on the 5th day after the procedure. Superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH Px) activity were measured in the intestinal tissue and erythrocyte lysate. MDA and GSH Px were also determined in the plasma. Whereas MDA levels in erythrocyte, plasma and intestinal tissue were decreased, the levels of GSH Px and SOD were significantly increased in Group III as compared to those of Group II. The results of our study suggest that hyperbaric oxygen therapy has beneficial effects on the course of experimental distal colitis and that antioxidant systems may be involved in its mode of action.

Effect of hyperbaric oxygen on experimental acute distal colitis

It has been demonstrated that hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) is useful as an adjunctive therapy for Crohn's disease. However, its effects on ulcerative colitis have not been investigated. In the present study, HBO was tested for acetic acid-induced colitis, and antioxidant systems were evaluated to clarify its possible mode of action. Thirty-six Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into three groups: sham control (Group I), colitis induced by acetic acid without any therapy (Group II), colitis induced by acetic acid and treated with HBO (Group III). HBO was given for 5 days, 2 sessions per day at 2.5-fold absolute atmosphere pressure (ATA) for a period of 90 min in rats in which colitis had been induced (Group III). Rats were sacrificed on the 5th day after the procedure. Superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH Px) activity were measured in the intestinal tissue and erythrocyte lysate. MDA and GSH Px were also determined in the plasma. Whereas MDA levels in erythrocyte, plasma and intestinal tissue were decreased, the levels of GSH Px and SOD were significantly increased in Group III as compared to those of Group II. The results of our study suggest that hyperbaric oxygen therapy has beneficial effects on the course of experimental distal colitis and that antioxidant systems may be involved in its mode of action.

The effect of hyperbaric oxygen treatment on oxidative stress in experimental acute necrotizing pancreatitis

Various protocols may be used for acute pancreatitis treatment. Recently, the benefit of hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) has been demonstrated. To clarify the mechanism of HBO on the process of the acute pancreatitis, we determined the levels of antioxidant enzymes in an acute pancreatitis model. Forty-five Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into three groups: Group I: sham group (n=15), Group II: pancreatitis group (n=15), Group III: pancreatitis group undergoing HBO therapy (n=15). HBO was applied postoperatively for 5 days, two sessions per day at 2.5 fold absolute atmospheric pressure (ATA) for 90 min. Superoxide dismutase (Cu/Zn-SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH Px) activity were measured in pancreatic tissue and erythrocyte lysate. MDA and GSH Px were also determined in plasma. In addition, amylase levels were measured in the serum. While serum amylase levels and MDA values in erythrocyte, plasma and pancreatic tissue were decreased, the levels of GSH Px and SOD were found to be significantly increased in the Group III as compared to those of the Group II. The findings of our study suggest that HBO has beneficial effects on the course of acute pancreatitis and this effect may occur through the antioxidant systems.