Advances in Contact Lens Care Solutions: PVP-I Disinfectant and HAD Wetting Agents From Japan

ABSTRACT

Half of the individuals who wear contact lenses use reusable lenses that require proper care. Improper contact lens (CL) care and using inadequate disinfecting solutions can lead to lens contamination, CL-related microbial keratitis, and Acanthamoeba keratitis. Oxidative disinfecting solutions, such as hydrogen peroxide, show higher efficacy than multipurpose solutions. Povidone-iodine (PVP-I), an oxidative disinfectant used in ophthalmic surgery, has been proven to be safe and effective. The PVP-I system, a CL disinfecting solution developed in Japan, has demonstrated excellent antimicrobial and antiviral properties. Although CL discomfort does not have a risk of ocular disorders with poor visual prognosis, such as keratitis, CL discomfort can still lead to lens dropout and thus needs to be addressed. To mitigate CL discomfort, it is essential to use disinfecting solutions containing surfactants and wetting agents that improve wettability of the lens surface. A CL solution containing hyaluronic acid derivatives (HADs) as wetting agents that permanently adhere to the lens surface to improve wettability of the lens surface was developed in Japan. There is potential for HAD to be integrated into various solutions. This article reviews the efficacy of novel PVP-I-based disinfecting solution and HAD wetting agents.

Effect of wetting agent on the dye filtration performance of ultrafiltration membrane

In this study, the wet phase inversion method was used for fabrication of the flat sheet ultrafiltration (UF) membranes. Three different polymer types and two different wetting agents were used for the fabrication. The effect of polymer types and wetting agents were investigated on the structural and dye performance of casted membranes. Two different synthetic dyes, 100 ppm Setazol Red and 100 ppm Setazol Blue, were used for the performance test. Viscosity, contact angle, and molecular weight cut off (MWCO) of casted membranes were measured and an electro kinetic analyzer, dynamic mechanical analyzer (DMA) and scanning electron microscope (SEM) were used to determine the structural properties. While the highest water and dye permeability were obtained with PES-PEG membrane, PSf-plain membrane gave the highest removal efficiency for Setazol Red and Setazol Blue dyes, which was found to be 78.33% and 82.52%, respectively, in the conditions of neutral pH and ambient temperature. Addition of PVP and PEG wetting agents improved the structural properties and permeability of membranes, but the dye removal was decreased as against plain ones. As the retention of PEG and PVP-based PSf and PES membrane was calculated at an average of 50%, they could be used for dye retention separately or could be a candidate as a pretreatment membrane prior to nanofiltration or reverse osmosis to make their lifetime longer.

How cells flow in the spreading of cellular aggregates

Like liquid droplets, cellular aggregates, also called "living droplets," spread onto adhesive surfaces. When deposited onto fibronectin-coated glass or polyacrylamide gels, they adhere and spread by protruding a cellular monolayer (precursor film) that expands around the droplet. The dynamics of spreading results from a balance between the pulling forces exerted by the highly motile cells at the periphery of the film, and friction forces associated with two types of cellular flows: (i) permeation, corresponding to the entry of the cells from the aggregates into the film; and (ii) slippage as the film expands. We characterize these flow fields within a spreading aggregate by using fluorescent tracking of individual cells and particle imaging velocimetry of cell populations. We find that permeation is limited to a narrow ring of width ξ (approximately a few cells) at the edge of the aggregate and regulates the dynamics of spreading. Furthermore, we find that the subsequent spreading of the monolayer depends heavily on the substrate rigidity. On rigid substrates, the migration of the cells in the monolayer is similar to the flow of a viscous liquid. By contrast, as the substrate gets softer, the film under tension becomes unstable with nucleation and growth of holes, flows are irregular, and cohesion decreases. Our results demonstrate that the mechanical properties of the environment influence the balance of forces that modulate collective cell migration, and therefore have important implications for the spreading behavior of tissues in both early development and cancer.

Relation of aphicidal activity with cuticular degradation by Beauveria bassiana SFB-205 supernatant incorporated with polyoxyethylene-(3)-isotridecyl ether

The application of Beauveria bassiana SFB-205 supernatant incorporated with polyoxyethylene-(3)-isotridecyl ether (TDE-3) significantly reduced the population of two species of aphids including cotton aphid, Aphis gossypii, and green peach aphid, Myzus persicae, much higher in cotton aphid, compared with supernatant incorporated with Tween 80, which allows the relationship of aphicidal activity with the degradation of aphid cuticles to be determined. Overall, the degradation of the cuticles induced by the supernatant was more remarkable in conjunction with TDE-3 than Tween 80, and this phenomenon was more observable in cotton aphid through SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, revealing high correlation with their aphicidal activities.

The effect of wetting agents on the growth of tubercle bacilli

Tween 80 and Triton A20 are two water-dispersible, non-ionic, surface-active agents which favor dispersed growth of tubercle bacilli in aqueous media probably by wetting the bacterial surface. Tween 80 is a polyoxyethylene ester of sorbitan monooleate and is liable to enzymatic hydrolysis by lipases. Triton A20 in an arylalkyl polyether of phenol which appears resistant to the known enzymes of animal tissues. Tween 80 loses its ability to disperse cultures of tubercle bacilli in media containing serum; Triton A20 does not. Tween 80 increases the yield of growth, probably by supplying oleic acid to the bacilli; Triton A20 does not. In concentrations sufficient to cause dispersed browth, Tween 80 (purified by removal of unesterified fatty acid) and Triton A20 are completely innocuous for virulent tubercle bacilli. However, Triton A20 exhibits a marked toxic effect on the avirulent variants of mammalian strains; Tween 80 does not. The two wetting agents also differ in their effects on the morphological aspects of the bacterial cultures. Whereas Triton A20 prevents the formation of large amorphous bacillary clumps, it is less effective in preventing the orientation of the virulent bacilli resulting in the formation of long bacillary strands. Tween 80 on the contrary prevents also the formation of these cords of bacilli and exerts therefore a more effective dispersing effect on cultures of virulent tubercle bacilli.

Problems associated with traditional hygiene swabbing: the need for in-house standardization

AIMS

To investigate factors influencing the recovery of micro-organisms from surfaces using traditional swabbing techniques.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Stainless steel squares were inoculated with known levels (approx. 2.7x10(2)-2.7x10(4)) of either Escherichia coli or Staphylococcus aureus and sampled using different swab/solution combinations. Overlaying the coupons with agar allowed colonies remaining on the surface to be enumerated. Conventional cultivation was used to determine the ease with which the bacteria were released from the swabs and the viability of the organisms within the solutions over a 24-h period. Minimal bacterial growth occurred when the samples were stored at 4 degrees C. At room temperature, whilst the presence of nutrients significantly increased bacterial numbers over time, the addition of Tween 80 to nutrient depleted environments significantly reduced the viability of Staph. aureus. The percentage of bacteria released from directly inoculated swabs was significantly higher than that recovered from surface swabs, highlighting the importance of effectively removing bacterial contaminants from a surface. Increasing the level of mechanical energy generated during swabbing increased the number of bacteria removed from a wet surface. However, it is hypothesized that cellular damage, perhaps caused by the swabbing action itself, may have reduced recoverability from a dry surface. Nonetheless, an increased ability to effectively remove bacteria from a surface did not necessarily correlate with higher bacterial recovery, implying that an equally important factor in terms of swabbing efficiency is the ability of a swab to effectively release bacteria into a diluent.

CONCLUSIONS

Both swab and wetting solution can influence the number of bacteria recovered. Under the experimental conditions described here, the use of swabs coated with a brush-textured nylon flock in combination with a non-growth-enhancing wetting solution appeared the best system to use when sampling a wet surface. However, this combination may not always be ideal and proper consideration must be given to how the sample is to be taken, transported and, if necessary, stored prior to analysis.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

Careful selection of swabbing materials can increase the sensitivity of traditional microbiological analysis. However, any improvements made are likely to be insignificant in relation to the overall poor performance of the swabbing technique.

Verticillium lecanii Spore Formulation Using UV Protectant and Wetting Agent and the Biocontrol of Cotton Aphids

Verticillium lecanii spores (10(8 )spores ml(-1)) suspended in 1% (w/v) montmorillonite SCPX-1374 and 1% (w/v) of the wetting agent, EM-APW#2, which is a polyoxyethylene, had approx. 80% survival after exposure to UV-C for 30 min and about 93% after exposure to UV-B for 6 h. In greenhouse testing, cotton aphid densities increased 14-fold over their initial density in 15 d without spore application. However, initial cotton aphid densities were decreased by 60% of the initial level when plants were treated with the spore formulation.

Influence of Temperature on the Spreading Velocity of Simplified-Step Adhesive Systems

BACKGROUND

Flowability and viscosity vary for different adhesive systems owing to differences in their composition. These characteristics can be modified by environmental temperature.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to determine the influence of temperature on the spreading (flow capacity) of simplified-step adhesive systems.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Spreading velocities of adhesive systems (Adper Single Bond and Single Bond Plus [3M ESPE, St. Paul, MN, USA]; Prime & Bond 2.1 and Prime & Bond NT [Dentsply Indústria e Comércio Ltda, Petrópolis, RJ, Brazil]; Adper Prompt [3M ESPE]; and One Up Bond F [Tokuyama Corp, Tokyo, Japan]) were analyzed at intervals of 10, 15, 20, and 30 seconds at both 25 degrees C and 37 degrees C by placing 10 microL drops on a glass slide surface with an inclination of 45 degrees. The spreading of each adhesive system was measured in millimeters per second.

RESULTS

Data were analyzed by two-way analysis of variance and Student-Newman-Keuls tests. Regression analysis was used to determine a correlation between spreading velocity and time. Statistical significance was considered at a confidence level of 95%. Temperature influenced the spreading velocity, increasing it for Single Bond and Prime & Bond 2.1 and decreasing it for Adper Prompt (p < .05). No differences on spreading were observed for the other adhesives studied (p >.05). Regression analysis of each adhesive system demonstrated an inverse correlation between mean spreading velocity and time (R2 = .999) on both temperatures.

CONCLUSIONS

Temperature increases yielded an increase of spreading for Single Bond and Prime & Bond 2.1. The influence of temperature on the spreading velocity was material dependent.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Environmental temperature can influence the rate of spreading of the adhesive system in clinically relevant times and may influence adhesive thickness on cavity walls.

Reducing Surface Tension in Endodontic Chelator Solutions Has No Effect on Their Ability to Remove Calcium from Instrumented Root Canals

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of reducing surface tension in endodontic chelator solutions on their ability to remove calcium from instrumented root canals. Aqueous solutions containing 15.5% EDTA, 10% citric acid, or 18% 1- hydroxyethylidene-1, 1-bisphosphonate (HEBP) were prepared with and without 1% (wt/wt) polysorbate (Tween) 80 and 9% propylene glycol. Surface tension in these solutions was measured using the Wilhelmy method. Sixty-four extracted, single-rooted human teeth of similar length were instrumented and irrigated with a 1% sodium hypochlorite solution and then randomly assigned (n = 8 per group) to receive a final one-minute rinse with 5 ml of test solutions, water, or the pure aqueous Tween/propylene glycol solution. Calcium concentration in eluates was measured using atomic absorption spectrometry. Incorporation of wetting agents resulted in a reduction of surface tension values by approximately 50% in all tested solutions. However, none of the solutions with reduced surface tension chelated more calcium from canals than their pure counterparts (p > 0.05).

Study of microleakage at class V cavities prepared by Er:YAG laser using rewetting surface treatment

OBJECTIVE

This study was conducted to analyze microleakage in Class V cavity preparation, using rewetting (or not) just after burr or Er:YAG laser preparation of enamel and dentin walls in permanent teeth.

BACKGROUND DATA

Several studies reported microleakage around composite restorations when cavity preparation was done or treated by Er:YAG laser. As the hybridized laser is removed when this laser is used to cut dental hard tissue, there is a need for new materials or techniques to minimize gaps and microleakage.

RESULTS

Primer solution showed significant effect in enamel and dentin, at the level of 5%, when Er:YAG laser was used as a cutting tool. Using primer solution after phosphoric acid in preparations with the laser, microleakage was similar in degree to when cavities were prepared with the burr.

CONCLUSION

Re-wetting surface just after Er:YAG irradiation and chemical treatment with phosphoric acid using HEMA aqueous solution seems to improve the quality of bioattachment between the adhesive system and enamel/dentin, showing similarities between restoration behaviors independently of the cutting tool, whether burr or laser.

Surface modification of an experimental silicone rubber maxillofacial material to improve wettability

OBJECTIVES

Good wettability of maxillofacial prosthetic materials is important so that a lubricating layer is formed with supporting tissues thus reducing patient discomfort. The purpose of the study was to surface modify an experimental silicone rubber material in order to improve wettability.

METHODS

Samples of experimental silicone rubber were surface modified by first argon plasma treatment followed by chemisorption of ethyleneoxy functional silanes. These were compared with the same silicone rubber which had ethyleneoxy functional surfactants incorporated into the polymer matrix. In all cases contact angles, tear strength and water uptake were measured.

RESULTS

Surface modified materials had comparable contact angles to surfactant modified silicone rubber all being significantly lower than the unmodified material. Surface modified materials, however, had a significantly higher tear strength and lower water uptake in comparison to surfactant modified materials.

CONCLUSIONS

Argon plasma treatment followed by chemisorption of ethyleneoxy functional silanes proved an effective way of improving the wettability of an experimental silicone rubber maxillofacial prosthetic material without altering bulk properties.

Examination of a vehicle for use with water soluble materials in the murine local lymph node assay

The murine local lymph node assay (LLNA) is a validated method for identifying skin sensitization hazard. Vehicle choice can influence the sensitization potential of haptens in both the LLNA and in humans, therefore selection of an appropriate vehicle is important. Suggested vehicles for the LLNA include organic solvents and organic-aqueous mixtures. However, due to its high surface tension and poor wetting qualities, water is not recommended and therefore testing aqueous soluble materials can be problematic. The aims of this investigation were to identify a water-based vehicle that possesses better skin wetting properties than water alone, and to assess its performance relative to other solvents in the LLNA using aqueous soluble haptens. The selected wetting agent was the surfactant Pluronic(R) L92 (L92). Concentrations of L92 of up to 50% did not induce positive responses in the LLNA. 1% aqueous L92 was chosen for further examination. Dose-response analyses were performed with dinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (DNBS) and formaldehyde formulated either in water, 1% L92, dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) or dimethyl formamide (DMF). Potassium dichromate (PDC) and nickel sulfate were tested in 1% L92, DMSO or DMF. The highest concentration of potassium dichromate was retested in each vehicle and in water to assess the effect of the wetting agent. Estimates of the relative sensitizing potency in each vehicle were determined by calculation of EC3 values (the estimated concentration required to induce a threshold positive response). While DNBS and formaldehyde produced positive responses in all four vehicles, their relative potency varied among the vehicles. The rank ordering of potencies for both materials was, from highest to lowest, DMF > or = DMSO > 1% L92 > water. Compared with water, use of 1% L92 resulted in >2-fold increase in potency for DNBS and >3-fold increase for formaldehyde. PDC was positive in DMF, DMSO and 1% L92. The potency ranking was DMF > or = DMSO > 1% L92. Re-evaluation of 0.5% PDC confirmed that formulations of both DMSO and DMF induced strong proliferative responses, whereas somewhat less proliferation was recorded with the 1% L92 vehicle. PDC in water was without activity. The performance of 1% L92 as a vehicle for nickel sulfate was assessed relative to DMSO and DMF. In DMSO, nickel sulfate produced a stimulation index (SI) >3 at only the highest level. Testing in DMF induced low levels of proliferation, but failed to produce a SI of 3 at any concentration tested. When formulated in 1% L92, nickel sulfate caused a SI of 3 when tested at 2.5%. Based on the results of these experiments, for identification of sensitization hazard of aqueous soluble materials using the LLNA, DMF and DMSO are the preferred vehicles. However, if a test material is not soluble in DMF or DMSO, or if higher test concentrations can be achieved in an aqueous vehicle, then 1% L92 may provide a better alternative to water alone in terms of improved assay performance.

Effect of preliminary treatment of the dentin surface on the shear bond strength of resin composite to dentin

This study evaluated the effect of two dentin disinfectants (Consepsis, Tubulicid), one aqueous HEMA solution (Aqua Prep), a combination of Aqua Prep and Tubulicid and an air abrasion treatment (50 microns aluminum oxide) on the shear bond strength (SBS) of two acetone-based single bottle adhesives (One Step and Prime & Bond 2.1). The occlusal surfaces of 167 freshly extracted human third molars were ground flat to expose the dentin, then polished with a 600 grit-polishing disc. The teeth were randomly assigned to 12 test groups (two bonding agents, six pretreatment protocols). The exposed dentin was etched with 35% phosphoric acid for 20 seconds, rinsed and briefly (1-2 seconds) air dried. Six pretreatment protocols were then applied. The air abrasion groups were exceptional, as etching was carried out only after pretreatment. One Step, or Prime & Bond 2.1 was applied according to the manufacturer's instructions. Cylinders of Z-100 composite were bonded to the flat dentin surfaces by transparent gelatin capsules. Specimens were thermocycled in water baths between 5 degrees and 55 degrees C, then sheared in an Instron Testing Machine. One-way and two-way ANOVA and Tukey HSD post-hoc tests were used for statistical analysis. In the One Step group, Consepsis yielded a significantly higher SBS (17.8 MPa) than air abrasion (9.5 MPa), Control (11.8 MPa) and Aqua Prep + Tubilicid (11.9 MPa), and a comparable SBS with Tubilicid (12.5 MPa) and Aqua Prep (14.8 MPa). In the Prime & Bond 2.1 group, Aqua Prep (24.9 MPa) showed a significantly higher SBS than all other groups: air abrasion (9.3 MPa), Control (9.97 MPa), Tubilicid (12.2 MPa), Consepsis (13.0 MPa) and Tubilicid + Aqua Prep (13.3 MPa).

Effect of solvent and rewetting time on dentin adhesion

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this in vitro study was to determine the influence of solvent and rewetting time on microtensile dentin bond strengths of four dentin adhesives.

METHOD AND MATERIALS

Sixty human molar specimens were divided into four dentin adhesive treatment groups: (1) a water-based total-etch dentin adhesive, EBS Multi; (2) an ethanol-based total-etch adhesive, Excite; (3) an acetone-based total-etch adhesive, Prime & Bond NT; and (4) an ethanol- and water-based total-etch adhesive, Single Bond. For each dentin adhesive, three specimens were assigned to five dentin moisture conditions. Specimens were tested in the tensile mode.

RESULTS

When adhesives were applied to moist dentin, bond strengths varied from 26.2 MPa for Prime & Bond NT to 29.5 MPa for Single Bond without any statistical differences. When applied to dentin that had been dried for 15 seconds, Prime & Bond NT and Excite resulted in the lowest mean bond strengths, but they were statistically similar to each other (7.9 and 8.3 MPa, respectively). Single Bond resulted in a mean bond strength of 12.7 MPa, which was significantly lower than that of EBS Multi (24.1 MPa). For the latter, all mean bond strengths were statistically similar when some amount of moisture was present on the surface. For the other three adhesives, mean bond strengths returned to the range obtained on moist dentin only when dentin was rewet for 30 seconds.

CONCLUSION

Bond strengths upon rewetting depend on the type of solvent in the bonding system, and rewetting time.

Marginal quality and microleakage of adhesive class V restorations

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this in vitro study was to determine the marginal quality and microleakage of composite resin class V restorations.

METHODS

Standardized mixed class V cavities (diameter: 4mm, depth: 2mm) with half of the finish lines limited within dentin were cut in 90 freshly extracted human molars and randomly assigned to nine groups (n=10). After etching enamel and dentin, the cavities were restored with nine different restorative systems (Syntac Sprint/Tetric Ceram=SS, Syntac Single-Component/Tetric Ceram=SC, Onestep/Aeliteflo=OS, Aquaprep+Onestep/Aeliteflo=OA, Prime & Bond 2.1/TPH=PB, Optibond Solo/Prodigy=OP, Singlebond/Z100=SB, Tenure Quik/Marathon=TQ, Solobond M/Arabesk=SM) using a wet-bonding procedure. After finishing and polishing, the teeth were stored for 24h in distilled water at 37 degrees C before they were subjected to thermocycling (5/55 degrees C, 1000x). Epoxy replicas were made for margin analysis in the SEM. Specimens were stained in methylene blue, sectioned, and evaluated for microleakage. Dye penetration was scored on a 0-3 ordinal scale.

RESULTS

Statistical analysis (Kruskal-Wallis H-test, Mann-Whitney U-test) revealed significant differences (P<0.05) among the groups at dentin and enamel margins for the microleakage scores as well as for the results of the quantitative SEM margin analysis. SC revealed a significantly higher percentage of perfect margins in the SEM than OS and SM in enamel and dentin, respectively. OA exhibited significantly more leakage in enamel than all other groups.

CONCLUSIONS

None of the tested restorative systems achieved a perfect seal in dentin and enamel of mixed class V cavities. Marginal quality and sealing ability of adhesive systems to dentin, using a wet-bonding procedure, is still inferior compared with enamel margins.

Improved wettability of an experimental silicone rubber denture soft lining material

The purpose of this study was to improve the wettability of an experimental silicone rubber soft lining material (Sildent) to increase patient comfort. Sildent was modified by the addition of polyalkylene oxide poly(dimethylsiloxane) surfactants. The various surfactants were added directly to the polymeric matrix in the quantities 5, 10, 20% w/w. The surfactants were also added to a one part silicone sealant, which was then painted onto the surface of already cured Sildent. Contact angle measurements were made on samples using a dynamic contact angle analyzer. Results showed that incorporation of surfactants A (Silwet L7600) and B (Silwet L7607) effectively improved the wettability of Sildent. This improvement was still evident after 6 months storage in distilled water at 37 degrees C suggesting retention of the surfactants matrix via physio-chemical bonding. Formulations with surfactants added directly to the matrix showed unacceptable water absorption after 2 months in distilled water. Samples with surfactant charged sealant painted on the surface showed a lower water absorption. In conclusion, Sildent formulations modified with polyalkylene silicone surfactants showed improved wettability compared to unmodified Sildent. Further work is needed to reduce water uptake and determine the effect on key mechanical properties.

The effect of a re-wetting agent on dentin bonding

OBJECTIVES

Recently, a new generation of simplified one-bottle dentin bonding systems, sensitive to variations in the degree of substrate moisture, was introduced. This in vitro project compared the dentin bond strengths and interfacial ultra-morphology formed by three one-bottle bonding systems [OptiBond SOLO (ethanol-based), Prime&Bond 2.1 (acetone-based), and Single Bond (ethanol- and water-based)]. The null hypothesis tested was that re-wetting a dried dentin surface with a HEMA aqueous solution would not result in bond strengths, and resin impregnation into demineralized dentin, comparable to those obtained for moist dentin.

METHODS

Dentin specimens were assigned to the following three etched surface conditions: moist dentin-control group; dentin dried for 5 s; and dentin dried for 5 s and re-moistened with a commercial 35% HEMA aqueous solution. Mean shear bond strengths were calculated and analyzed with one- and two-way ANOVA. Dentin discs treated with the same combination of surface condition/adhesive were processed and observed under both transmission and scanning electron microscopes.

RESULTS

For moist dentin, the morphology of the resin-dentin interfaces showed penetration of the dentin adhesives to the depth of the transition between demineralized and unaffected dentin. Drying dentin for 5 s resulted in a significant decrease in mean bond strengths and an incompletely infiltrated collagen structure with areas of unveiled collagen fibers, regardless of the solvent. Re-wetting dentin with the aqueous HEMA solution re-established the level of bond strengths obtained to moist dentin and resulted in a raise of the fiber network with simultaneous increase in interfibrillar space dimensions.

SIGNIFICANCE

The results suggest that the use of an aqueous HEMA solution might compensate for the dryness induced on dentin surfaces by using air blasts from an air syringe, after rinsing off the etchant. As the behavior of the material that contained water was also affected by surface dryness, the percentage of water included in the composition of current ethanol- and water-based adhesives, such as Single Bond, may not be enough to compensate for the collapse of the collagen filigree upon drying.

Sustained release chitosan microspheres prepared by novel spray drying methods

Modified spray drying methods, especially a novel w/o/w emulsion-spray drying method, were developed to prepare chitosan microspheres with a sustained drug release pattern. Release of the model drugs cimetidine and famotidine, from the microspheres prepared by the emulsion-spray drying methods, was greatly retarded with release lasting for several hours, compared with drug loaded microspheres prepared by conventional-spray drying or emulsion methods where drug release was almost instant. The slow release of drug was partly due to the poor wetting ability of the microspheres which floated on the surface of the dissolution medium. The addition of a wetting agent increased the release rate significantly. The coating of the microspheres with gelatin decreased the rate of release of drug in the presence of wetting agents.

Wetting solutions in ultrasound-assisted lipoplasty

Wetting solutions play a crucial role in traditional lipoplasty by reducing blood loss in the aspirate and diminishing postoperative ecchymosis and edema. From the inception of ultrasound-assisted lipoplasty a "wet environment" has been considered essential for efficient fat emulsification and for control of thermal side effects. This article reviews the historical role of wetting solutions in lipoplasty and examines the risks of their use in an overzealous manner. The authors provide safety guidelines for maximizing the benefits of wetting solutions in traditional and ultrasound-assisted lipoplasty while minimizing their side effects and complications.

Drug targeting using low density lipoprotein (LDL): physicochemical factors affecting drug loading into LDL particles

Low density lipoprotein (LDL) has been found suitable as a targeting carrier for cytotoxic drugs. However, higher drug loading into LDL particles without disrupting their native integrity remains a major obstacle. The purpose of this study is to investigate the different physicochemical factors that may affect drug loading and to characterize LDL-drug conjugates. Doxorubicin (Dox) and 3', 5'-O-dipalmitoyl-5-iodo-2'-deoxyuridine (dpIUdR) were used as reference cytotoxic drugs. Drugs were loaded into LDL particles using the dry film method with or without surfactants, liposomal and the direct addition method. The effects of incubation temperature, time and stoichiometry of LDL-drug conjugates on drug loading were investigated. The LDL-drug conjugates were evaluated for their stability and characterized by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), denatured gel (SDS-PAGE), and electron microscopy (EM). We have suitably incorporated 45+/-10 Dox and 150+/-25 dpIUdR molecules/LDL particle. A seven-fold increase in Dox incorporation was achieved with the liposomal preparation compared to the dry film method. A 4- to 6-h incubation at 37 degreesC was suitable to restore the native structure of LDL particles. No apo B fragmentation of LDL particles was noted on denatured gel. DSC studies showed no change in the Tm of the LDL and the LDL-drug conjugates. An increase in particle size of LDL-dpIUdR, not LDL-Dox was observed in EM compared to the native LDL which may be related to higher incorporation of dpIUdR. The results indicate that physicochemical factors significantly affect drug loading efficiency and may need to be considered to optimize drug incorporation into LDL particles.

Clinical survey of lens care in contact lens patients

PURPOSE

Overall, contact lenses provide a safe and effective modality for vision correction. However, problems do occasionally arise. Up to 80% of contact lens complications can be traced to poor patient compliance with recommended lens care guidelines. We conducted a survey to evaluate the level of patient compliance in specific areas of lens care and maintenance and to assess patient knowledge of basic contact lens information.

METHODS

Patients were asked to complete an anonymous 15 question survey that focused on lens care--specifically the use of contact lens cleaners, methods of disinfection, enzyme treatments, use of rewetting drops, and the frequency of follow-up exams. In addition, the survey included six true/false questions relating to contact lens care and safety.

RESULTS

There were a total of 103 participants in the study. Approximately 24% of patients stated they never cleaned their lenses prior to disinfection, and 5% used saline solutions as their primary mode of disinfection. A sizable portion of those surveyed (43% of soft lens wearers and 71% of rigid gas permeable lens wearers) either never used enzyme cleaners or used them less than once a month. Seventy percent of patients either never used rewetting drops or used them less than once a day. Twenty-nine percent of patients consulted their eye care professionals every 2 years and 6% less often than every two years. Six questions assessed patient knowledge of contact lens care safety. Of a possible six out of six correct answers, the mean number of correct responses was 3.74.

CONCLUSIONS

A sizable proportion of contact lens wearers do not adequately adhere to recommended contact lens care, and many have an inadequate understanding of contact lens care guidelines. Therefore, it is important that practitioners place more emphasis on patient education at the time of initial contact lens fitting and reinforce such instruction during follow-up visits.

[Influence of auxiliary materials on the proportion of effective particle size of metered-dose suspension type aerosols]

The aim of the present study was to formulate suspension type inhalation aerosols by various types of auxiliary materials, and to select the formulation with the highest proportion of the effective particle size. The examined suspension type aerosol contained sodium cromoglycate as an active compound. For the stabilization of the suspension, the applied surface active ingredients were oleic acid and oleyl oleate, and dimethyl siloxane polymer was selected as hydrophobizing agent. Factorial design was used for the optimization of the experimental results. On the basis of our results, the correct types and amounts of auxiliary materials can be selected to obtain the therapeutically effective formulation.

[Microbial behavior and hurdles in Venezuelan intermediate moisture food]

Sixteen Venezuelan IMF, dairy products, dry-salted fish products, meat products and vegetable products (specially fruit products) were characterized; water activity, pH, moisture, acidity and humectants were determined, allowing us to identify the main hurdles. Parallelly the microbial profile and her evolution for each IMF were established in function of time and storage conditions. This information permits us to explain the different stability compartments for our IMF; simple modifications that will increase their stability are suggested. Water activity is not enough as a hurdle if it is not accompanied by an appropriate packaging, specially in tropical countries, that would limit water migrations.

An in vivo study of a clinical surfactant used with poly(vinyl siloxane) impression materials

The aim of this study was to determine whether the use of a topical surfactant (Hydrosystem), designed for clinical use, improved the quality of the impression surface of two poly(vinyl siloxane) materials used in vivo. Before impressions were taken, Hydrosystem was applied to the maxillary left or right premolar teeth, allocated at random, in 50 subjects. The untreated side acted as a control for each subject. The impressions were examined for quality of reproduction and number of surface defects. Hydrosystem was found to significantly improve the quality of reproduction.

A comparison of three wetting agents used to facilitate the pouring of dies

This study compared the effect of a clinical surfactant and one of three laboratory surfactants used before pouring dies from elastomeric impression materials. A total of 154 impressions were recorded. Hydrosystem surfactant was used before the recording of 78 of these impressions. A total of 154 dies were poured with Wax-mate, Tensilab, or Hydrosystem surfactants and examined for surface voids by an examiner who was unaware which wetting agent was used. Six dies were grossly defective and discarded. When the Hydrosystem surfactant had not been used during impression recording there was no significant difference between Hydrosystem (mean 10.2 +/- 8.8 voids, n 25), Wax-mate (mean 13.1 +/- 14.4 voids, n 25), and Tensilab (mean 14.9 +/- 11.6 voids, n 21) surfactants when the dies were poured. When Hydrosystem surfactant was used during impression recording, there was no significant difference between the number of voids on dies produced with Hydrosystem (mean 3.8 +/- 3.9 voids, n 26), Wax-mate (3.9 +/- 3.3 voids, n 25), or Tensilab (3.7 +/- 4.9 voids, n 26) surfactants. However, each of the groups in which Hydrosystem surfactant was used before impression recording resulted in dies with significantly fewer voids than when it had not been used, independent of the surface wetting agent used in the pouring of dies (p < 0.05). To reduce the number of voids in laboratory dies, this in vitro study suggested that a topical surfactant should be used before an impression is recorded.

Reliability of antagonistic arch impression in dental prostheses: clinical evaluation of different preimpression preparation procedures

This study compared the influence of different methods of preimpression preparation on the quality of occlusal reproduction in irreversible hydrocolloid impressions. A total of 30 impressions of the lower dental arch of a patient were made with five different preimpression preparation procedures. Stone casts were made and analyzed. Critical comparison showed that the preimpression preparation influenced the quality of the occlusal surface of the cast. Fingerpainting the occlusal surface with fluid hydrocolloid before positioning the loaded impression tray, associated with use of a saliva ejector, reduced the incidence of macroscopic defects on the occlusal surface of the impressions.

The effect of mouthrinses containing zinc and triclosan on plaque accumulation and development of gingivitis in a 3-week clinical test

Experimental mouthrinses containing 0.4% zinc sulphate and 0.15% triclosan were compared with a chlorhexidine and a negative control mouthrinse in a 3-week clinical trial. The zinc/triclosan mouthrinses 1 and 2 differed in their ethanol and humectant contents used to deliver the triclosan. The experimental protocol employed the partial mouth gingivitis design, whereby participants wear a toothshield during toothbrushing. Gingival health at baseline was established by professional cleaning, oral hygiene instruction and effective toothbrushing 3 x per day during a pre-experimental period of 2 weeks. The mouthrinses were subsequently used 2x daily following normal toothbrushing during 3 weeks. The pre-experimental oral hygiene phase very effectively reduced plaque levels and gingival bleeding. During the rinsing period, in the absence of mechanical removal of plaque from the protected teeth, gingival bleeding rose to above the prestudy level in the negative control group. The increments (change from baseline to 21 days) of plaque and bleeding scores for the zinc/triclosan mouthrinse 1 were significantly lower than those in the negative control group. As expected, plaque and gingivitis scores were lowest in the group that rinsed with chlorhexidine. The results extend previous observations on the efficacy of the zinc/triclosan system to maintain gingival health.

Synthesis of bioactive coatings on Ti substrates using glass enamel

Bioactive coatings on titanium can be prepared by dispersing hydroxyapatite particles into a borosilicate glass enamel doped with TiO2. Adhesion of the coating is obtained when the titanium substrate has been preoxidized before enameling in such a way as to form a continuous TiO2-layer. Adhesion results from the diffusion of this TiO2-layer into the liquid glass during enameling. The evolution of the diffusion zone was followed by scanning electron microscopy and electron probe microanalysis. Adhesion disappears after a critical time of firing which corresponds to the completion of the dissolution of the TiO2-layer by the glass. The borosilicate glass wets the hydroxyapatite particles and adheres strongly to them after cooling.

Cleaning and storage of rigid contact lenses prior to dispensing

Most care regimens used with rigid contact lenses are composed of three solutions: 1) a "cleaning" solution; 2) a "combination" solution intended for storage, disinfection, and wetting prior to placement of rigid lenses on the eye; and 3) an in-eye "rewetting" or "lubricating" solution. While solutions (1) and (3) have only single functions, solution (2) must fulfill three fairly disparate functions. A "2-solution" care regimen is offered by Sherman Pharmaceuticals and consists of (a) a solution for cleaning, storage, and disinfection; and (b) a "wetting" solution that doubles as an in-eye lubricant. Through a more compatible and efficient matching of multiple functions within solutions, Sherman Pharmaceuticals claims to more adequately clean and prepare rigid gas-permeable (RGP) lens surfaces for wear. We investigated this strategy in terms of in-eye wettability of initially "ill-prepared" RGP lens surfaces, as measured with the in vivo contact angle technique. For this study, lenses were intentionally not cleaned of residues or solvents by the manufacturer at the end of production so as to create the well-known "first-day non-wetting syndrome." The ability of the 2-solution care regimen to even then provide wettable surfaces was compared to that of a saline control "regimen" and the most popular competing "3-solution" care system. We concluded that use of both care regimens dramatically enhanced in-eye wettability and, therefore, reduced the incidence of the "first-day non-wetting syndrome". However, the 2-solution care regimen provided significantly better wettability overall, lower incidence of functionally non-wetting surfaces, and more consistently wettable RGP lenses.

Toothpastes

It is well known that plaque is the main cause of caries and parodontopathies, which puts the role of toothpastes as an important means of prevention of odontopathies to the foreground. Toothpastes can be more or less oriented towards having a particular effect, such as cleaning, anticaries effect, antimicrobial effect or inhibition of the formation of tartar. Toothpastes contain substances which promote dental health, such as abrasives (silicium dioxide, brushite, calcite, calcite and aragonite, gibbsite etc.), active components (fluorides, triclosan, metal ions, sanguinarine and surface-active substances), substances which motivate the use of toothpaste (sweetening agents, aromatic oil, colours) and components which are necessary for technical reasons, such as moisturizing agents, binders and opacifiers.

Resin bonding to wet substrate. 1. Bonding to dentin

An in vitro study was undertaken to evaluate the ability of a dentin-enamel bonding system to bond to wet, as well as to dry, dentinal substrate. The All-Etch/All-Bond system was used to bond to wet and dry dentin using 10% and 37% phosphoric acid surface conditioning. The wet dentinal surfaces exhibited significantly higher bond strengths than did the dry surfaces. It is suggested that, because of the unique behavior of the resin-primer mixture, the dentinal surface is adapted to much more thoroughly and intimately when the surface is wet.

The dentinal surface: its influence on dentinal adhesion. Part I

Three categories of dentinal adhesive are proposed: category I includes adhesives with shear bond strength values between 5 and 7 MPa; category II includes dentinal adhesives with shear bond strengths between 8 and 14 MPa; and category III includes adhesives with shear bond strength values up to 20 MPa. In part I of this article, photomicrographs of the dentinal smear layer and three category I first-generation dentin-adhesive interfaces are presented. The photomicrographs show that the wetting and penetration of the first-generation dentinal adhesives were not adequate to produce high shear bond strengths. When the category I adhesives were tested for shear bond strength, failures occurred at the interface or in the resin adhesive. Future articles will explain wetting and adhesive performance of category II and III adhesives.

Wettability of nonaqueous elastomeric impression materials

The wettability of eight nonaqueous elastomeric impression materials was studied by comparing their contact angles. The materials included three polyethers (one of which was light activated), three hydrophilic poly(vinyl siloxanes), one conventional poly(vinyl siloxane), and one poly(vinyl siloxane) putty. Extracted teeth were prepared to approximate the roughness of a tooth preparation. Contact angles were measured at different time intervals after the start of mixing but were not shown to be significant. The nonhydrophilic poly(vinyl siloxane) materials and the poly(vinyl siloxane) putty were found to be significantly less wettable.

Dentin surface reproduction with hydrophilic and hydrophobic impression materials

The detail reproduction of ground moist dentin surfaces with hydrophilic and hydrophobic elastomeric impression materials and the transfer of details onto stone casts produced from such impressions were investigated. Practically no difference was found in the detail-reproducing ability of the six impression materials and that of the dies produced therefrom. The surface roughness data were not related to the degree of hydrophilicity determined as the contact angle between water and impression material in spite of the considerable variation in contact angles of the six materials investigated. The critical surface tension of an experimental low-viscosity vinyl polysiloxane material of typical composition was 22.2 and 22.9 mN/m in the uncured and cured state, respectively. The contact angle between water and this compound was 105 degrees. The critical surface tension of wet dentin is reported to be 45.1 mN/m (Glantz, 1969), which means that the experimental impression paste will spread on wet dentin in spite of the pronounced hydrophobicity of the set product.

Colour changes of light-cured composite resin after exposure to water and photographic wetting agent

Light-cured composite resins were investigated colourimetrically under the three different conditions, dry and exposed to water and photographic wetting agent. As a result, perceivable differences were found, particularly in photographic wetting agent. We conclude that the colour changes of composite resins seems to be affected by the lower surface tension of a liquid.

Clinical findings correlated with contact angles on rigid gas permeable contact lens surfaces in vivo

Functional wettability of daily wear rigid gas permeable (RGP) contact lenses worn by 16 human subjects was monitored over a 4-month period during which wettability was also assessed with an equilibrium sessile-drop contact angle method in vivo. In all, 2,128 lens surface break-up time (LBUT) and in vivo contact angle data points were accumulated. Six hundred thirty-one associated graded evaluations of lens surface deposition and patient discomfort were also recorded. The four factors (LBUT, contact angle, deposition, and discomfort) were found to be correlated to each other, their paired values having statistically significant correlation coefficients. Contact angles were of predictive value for extremes of functional wettability, based on criterion of 20 degrees equivalent to an LBUT of 5 seconds. We confirm that surface deposition and subject discomfort are related to RGP lens wettability on the eye. In addition, the in vivo contact angle is perhaps the first contact angle measurement to be correlated with functional RGP wettability.

The use of high-dose lidocaine in wetting solutions for lipoplasty

The use of lidocaine as a local anesthetic has been limited to 7 mg/kg. The authors question whether amounts of lidocaine greater than the recommended dosage may be safely used in the patient undergoing lipoplasty of the torso and knees. Six patients were used as a sample and a wetting solution of 750 mg or 1,000 mg of a .25% lidocaine solution containing 1:400,000 epinephrine was injected into the surgical site. The ratios of milligrams of lidocaine to kilograms of body weight varied from 9.1 to 13.8. Serum lidocaine levels were measured at frequent intervals. Because of many factors, including poor vascularity of subcutaneous fat, vasoconstrictive effect of epinephrine, and aspiration of a portion of the lidocaine, blood levels of lidocaine in the patients never exceeded 1.0 microgram%. We conclude that lidocaine, 9 to 14 mg/kg, results in peak serum lidocaine levels of only 0.5 to 0.8 microgram%.

Guide to the clinical assessment of on-eye wettability of rigid gas permeable lenses

The number of rigid gas permeable (RGP) contact lens materials is increasing rapidly. One of the most critical issues for acceptance of new materials is lens wettability. This paper describes techniques for assessing lens wetting characteristics while the lenses are worn on the eye, and relates each observation to the lens material properties or patient tear characteristics. This method of lens wetting assessment is intended to aid the practitioner in determining the optimal lens material for a patient, based upon assessment of the interactions inherent in the lens-eye system.

Variation in human salivary pellicle formation on biomaterials during the day

Contact angle measurements were used to study the effects of pellicle formation on polymethyl-methacrylate, dental amalgam and gold. Samples were exposed to saliva in vivo for periods of 5-20 min at three separate occasions during the day. Pellicle drastically increased the wettability of all the materials and effectively sealed off the effect of the original surface activity. Variation in pellicle formation during the day was demonstrated. Pellicles formed at midday showed the least reduction in contact angles compared to those formed during the morning and afternoon. This difference coincided with an increased concentration of inorganic phosphate in saliva at midday. The method enables comparative studies of pellicle formation on hard biosurfaces. The findings indicate differences in the physical behaviour of saliva during the day, and illustrate the importance of making adhesion studies with this variation in mind.

Presence of anaerobic bacteria in conjunctivitis associated with wearing contact lenses

Ten anaerobic bacterial species were found in conjunctival cultures obtained from six patients who wore contact lenses and developed conjunctivitis. In three instances the anaerobic bacteria were associated with facultative bacteria. The predominant anaerobic isolates were Peptostreptococcus species (three isolates), Bacteroides sp. (two), and Fusobacterium sp. (two). It was the practice of five of the six patients to wet their lenses with saliva. It is recommended that a culture for anaerobes be obtained from any patient who uses contact lenses and develops conjunctivitis.

Parameter and environmental influences on rigid contact lens wettability

The present investigation was designed to determine the effect of lens parameters and lens environment on measurements of contact angle. The sessile drop contact angle of saline on four rigid [polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) and silicone/acrylate] contact lens materials was examined with a Ramé-Hart goniometer to determine how front surface radius, drop size, time after drop placement, humidity, and desiccation affect measurements of lens wettability in vitro. Contact angles of Silafocon A and PMMA were relatively uninfluenced by front surface radii between 7.7 and 8.85 and 7.3 to 8.8 mm, respectively. Contact angles of Pasifocon C and modified PMMA were slightly but significantly influenced by front surface radii between 6.4 and 7.5 mm. For drop volumes from 2 to 20 microliter, all materials yielded contact angles, which were unaffected by drop size. The contact angle of lenses stored in the hydrated or dehydrated state was not affected by chamber humidity between 31 and 76%. In the ranges tested, drop size, humidity, and hydration had no significant effect on the contact angle within 1 to 6 min after drop placement. In addition, surface scratches had no effect on lens wettability. The results suggest that goniometry on contact lens surfaces, for the most part, is uninfluenced by lens parameters and environmental conditions.

Increased cell surface hydrophobicity of a Serratia marcescens NS 38 mutant lacking wetting activity

The cell surface hydrophobicity of Serratia marcescens appears to be an important factor in its adhesion to and colonization of various interfaces. The cell surface components responsible for mediating the hydrophobicity of S. marcescens have not been completely elucidated, but may include prodigiosin and other factors. In the present report we have investigated the potential role of serratamolide, an amphipathic aminolipid present on the surfaces of certain S. marcescens strains, in modulating cell surface hydrophobicity. The hydrophobic properties of a serratamolide-producing strain (NS 38) were compared with those of a serratamolide-deficient mutant (NS 38-9) by monitoring the kinetics of adhesion to hexadecane. Serratamolide production was monitored by thin-layer chromatography and the wetting activity of washed-cell suspensions on polystyrene. Wild-type NS 38 cells were far less hydrophobic than the serratamolide-deficient mutant cells were; the removal coefficients were 48 min-1 for the mutant, as compared with only 18 min-1 for the wild type. The data suggest that the presence of serratamolide on S. marcescens cells results in a reduction in hydrophobicity, presumably by blocking hydrophobic sites on the cell surface.

Laser-assisted contact angle measurements

A laser beam, aimed at the solid-liquid-air interface of a sessile drop on a contact lens, produces two lines of diffraction which are theoretically normal to the profile of the fluid and solid surfaces at the point of contact. In the present experiments, the beam and the diffraction patterns were projected on a flat screen perpendicular to the beam, and the angle was measured as a contact angle. The angle was measured on curved surfaces (contact lenses) of 6.5 to 8.9 mm radius and for each material studied, the angle: (1) was independent of the front surface radius, (2) was independent of droplet volume at 2 and 10 microliter, and (3) decreased with time after drop placement. The laser-derived measurements correlated well with contact angles measured by goniometry on contact lenses and a variety of other materials (r = 0.86; p less than 0.0001). Because the diffraction lines are straight and are generated at the point of contact, the angle formed by them is measured easily with a protractor, yielding a convenient and reproducible contact angle measurement. An application of the method was demonstrated by measuring contact angles for saline-containing 0 to 2% bovine serum albumin or bovine submaxillary mucin on Silafocon-A (Polycon II), Pasifocon C (Paragon EW), and polymethyl methacrylate (generic PMMA and Paragon 18) lenses. On each material, physiological concentrations of mucin, but not of albumin, significantly (p greater than 0.01) decreased contact angles by 8 to 15 degrees.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Wetting angles of rigid contact lens plastics: the effect of contact lens wear

Several adapted rigid contact lens wearers were given duplicates of their present lenses made in different plastics. They were required to wear each material on each eye for a period of four hours. Both the average wetting angle and its range of values for each material was compiled. All lenses tended to give similar average wetting angles but ranges of angles for the PMMA/siloxanyl materials were greater than that for PMMA and GP IITM. Both values should be utilized when evaluating the wettability of a specific material.

Evaluation of lubricants for the prosthetic eye wearer

We evaluated the need for additional lubrication in 200 consecutive patients using an ocular prosthesis. Of these patients, 154 (77%) required no additional lubrication, while 46 patients (23%) required supplemental lubrication. Enuclene, the only product manufactured specifically for the patient with an ocular prosthesis, has been reported by the majority of our patients to be inadequate for comfort and wearability. Other solutions for contact lens use were compared with Enuclene and found to be far superior by patients using an ocular prosthesis.