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Polyalkenoate cement (PAC) is a promising material for regenerative hard tissue therapy. The ionically rich glass component of PAC encourages bioactive interaction via. the release of essential ions. However, PAC bioactivity is restricted owing to (i) structurally inherent cationic network formers and (ii) surface bacterial biofilm formation. These two factors cause a deficiency in ion release, further complicated by secondary infections and premature therapeutic failure. Here, a multivalent zwitterionic network modifier (mZM) is presented for upregulation of ionic exchange and bioactivity enhancement. By introducing a non-zero charged mZM into PACs, an increase in the proportion of non-bridging oxygen occurs. The network modification promotes ion channel formation, causing a multiple-fold increase in ion release and surface deposition of hydroxy-carbonate apatite (ca. 74%). Experiments ex vivo and animal models also demonstrate the efficient remineralization ability of the mZM. Furthermore, divalent cationic interaction results in bacterial biofilm reduction (ca. 68%) while also influencing a shift in the biofilm species composition, which favors commensal growth. Therefore, PAC modification with mZM offers a promising solution for upregulation of bioactivity, even aiding in customization by targeting site-specific regenerative therapy in future applications.

Zwitterionic polymers have extraordinary properties, that is, significant hydration and the so-called antipolyelectrolyte effect, which make them suitable for biomedical applications. The hydration induces an antifouling effect, and this has been investigated significantly. The antipolyelectrolyte effect refers to the extraordinary ion-responsive behavior of particular polymers that swell and hydrate considerably in physiological solutions. This actuation begins to attract attention to achieve in vivo antifouling that is challenging for general polyelectrolytes. In this study, we established the sophisticated cornerstone of the antipolyelectrolyte effect in detail, including (i) the essential parameters, (ii) experimental verifications, and (iii) effect of improving antifouling performance. First, we find that both osmotic force and charge screening are essential factors. Second, we identify the antipolyelectrolyte effect by visualizing the swelling and hydration dynamics. Finally, we verify that the antifouling performance can be enhanced by exploiting the antipolyelectrolyte effect and report reduction of 85% and 80% in ex and in vivo biofilm formation, respectively.

Amorphous indium-gallium-zinc oxide (IGZO) thin-film transistors (TFTs) have shown significant potential for application in transparent and flexible electronic devices. However, the source and drain (S/D) electrodes of IGZO TFTs with indium tin oxide (ITO) thin films can cause Schottky-like behavior in the output characteristics owing to the formation of a potential barrier between the IGZO and ITO thin films. In this study, we designed and fabricated TFTs by applying a novel ITO S/D electrode layer (375 nm) with co-sputtered IGZO and ITO thin films (125 nm) deposited at room temperature. The proposed TFT exhibits superior electric characteristics ( $\mu _{\text {sat}} =35.4$ cm2/Vs) compared to those of TFTs with conventional ITO electrodes ( $\mu _{\text {sat}} =9.1$ cm2/Vs) owing to its lower contact and channel resistance and the generation of a surface reaction between S/D and channel layers, creating additional oxygen vacancies at the IGZO channel region. The proposed S/D electrode could be fabricated on a glass substrate at low temperatures (below 200 °C). The excellent electrical properties of the proposed IGZO TFT are expected to promote the application of TFTs in advanced displays.

Objective Increased gingival elasticity has been implicated as the cause of relapse following orthodontic rotational tooth movement and approaches to reduce relapse are limited. This study aimed to investigate the effects of sulforaphane (SFN), an inhibitor of osteoclastogenesis, on gene expression in gingival fibroblasts and relapse after rotational tooth movement in beagle dogs. Methods The lower lateral incisors of five beagle dogs were rotated. SFN or dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) were injected into the supra-alveolar gingiva of the experimental and control group, respectively, and the effect of SFN on relapse tendency was evaluated. Changes in mRNA expression of extracellular matrix components associated with gingival elasticity in beagles were investigated by real-time polymerase chain reaction. Morphology and arrangement of collagen fibers were observed on Masson’s trichrome staining of buccal gingival tissues of experimental and control teeth. Results SFN reduced the amount and percentage of relapse of orthodontic rotation. It also decreased the gene expression of lysyl oxidase and increased the gene expression of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) 1 and MMP 12, compared with DMSO control subjects. Histologically, collagen fiber bundles were arranged irregularly and were not well connected in the SFN-treated group, whereas the fibers extended in parallel and perpendicular directions toward the gingiva and alveolar bone in a more regular and well-ordered arrangement in the DMSO-treated group. Conclusions Our findings demonstrated that SFN treatment may be a promising pharmacologic approach to prevent orthodontic rotational relapse caused by increased gingival elasticity of rotated teeth in beagle dogs.

Carboxybetaine methacrylate (CBMA), which has anti-biofouling properties, was incorporated into poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) to prevent multi-species biofilm formation without impairing the critical mechanical properties of the PMMA. The incorporation of 2-methacryloyloxyethyl phosphorylcholine (MPC, 3 wt%) was used as a positive control. PMMA wettability was found to increase with increasing CBMA content. The addition of CBMA resulted in decreased mechanical properties of PMMA. The incorporation of 3% CBMA into PMMA resulted in considerable long-term anti-biofouling effects that reduce adhesion of various fungi, bacteria (Candida albicans, Actinomyces naeslundii, and Veillonella parvula), and a human saliva-derived biofilm. The anti-biofouling effect of CBMA-incorporated PMMA surpassed that of the positive control. By calculating the intensity of the collective band using Raman spectroscopy, CBMA was proven to form the most stable hydration layer. Neither CBMA nor MPC groups showed cytotoxicity. Occlusal splints fabricated using 3% CBMA showed clinically acceptable aesthetic properties with slight turbidity. Despite a limitation in terms of deteriorations of the mechanical properties, the addition of an appropriate amount of CBMA to PMMA inhibited the attachment of fungi and bacteria and suppressed multi-species biofilm growth. The aesthetic properties of CBMA-incorporated PMMA are acceptable for clinical practice.

Simple, fast, and accurate analytical techniques for verifying the accuracy of label declarations for marine oil dietary supplements containing eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) are required because of the increased consumption of these products. We recently developed broad-based partial least squares regression (PLS-R) models to quantify six fatty acids (FAs) and FA classes by using the spectroscopic data from a portable Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) device and a benchtop Fourier transform near infrared (FT-NIR) spectrometer. We developed an improved quantification method for these FAs and FA classes by incorporating a nonlinear calibration approach based on the machine learning technique support vector machines. For the two spectroscopic methods, high accuracy in prediction was indicated by low root mean square error of prediction and by correlation coefficients (R2) close to 1, indicating excellent model performance. The percent accuracy of the support vector regression (SV-R) model predicted values for EPA and DHA in the reference material was 90 to 110%. In comparison to PLS-R, SV-R accuracy for prediction of FA and FA class concentrations was up to 2.4 times higher for both ATR-FTIR and FT-NIR spectroscopic data. The SV-R models also provided closer agreement with the certified and reference values for the prediction of EPA and DHA in the reference standard. Based on our findings, the SV-R methods had superior accuracy and predictive quality for predicting the FA concentrations in marine oil dietary supplements. The combination of SV-R with ATR-FTIR and/or FT-NIR spectroscopic data can potentially be applied for the rapid screening of marine oil products to verify the accuracy of label declarations. HIGHLIGHTS

Technologies that can overcome the poor mechanical properties of the coatings with bacterial anti-adhesion effect based on super-wetting properties are still challenging. In this study, we developed a durable superhydrophilic nanocomposite coatings composed of polysaccharide matrix and organosilicate (OS) compound filler. In brief, carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) and chitosan (CS)-based multilayer films were fabricated via Layer-by-layer (LbL) assembly then crosslinking for the films was performed to improve inner stability and induce superhydrophilicity. As second step, we synthesized a biocompatible and robust organosilicate compound via sol-gel reaction and incorporate it as reinforcing filler into the superhydrophilic films. Consequently, durable hybrid superhydrophilic nanocomposites were coated on the substrate, and various chemical analysis and performance evaluations of the coatings were performed. The mechanical properties of the composite coatings were significantly improved due to the OS acting as a reinforcing filler in the multilayer films. Furthermore, the coatings exhibited excellent biocompatibility and transparency and exerted antibacterial effect based on superhydrophilic property. This study presents a practical strategy to solve the poor durability, the limitation of super-wetting coatings widely applied in various fields.

We incorporated zwitterionic materials into light-curable fluoride varnish (LCFV) in order to inhibit biofilm accumulation and prevent dental caries, and the properties of LCFV with three different zwitterionic materials, namely, 2-methacryloyloxyethyl phosphorylcholine (MPC), carboxybetaine methacrylate (CBMA), and sulfobetaine methacrylate (SBMA) polymers (each at a weight percentage of 3%), were compared; unmodified LCFV without any zwitterionic material was used as a control. Material properties including film thickness and degree of conversion (DC) of each type of LCFV were evaluated. In addition, protein-repellent effects and inhibitory effects on Streptococcus mutans adhesion and saliva-derived biofilm accumulation of LCFV were estimated. Finally, the preventive effect of LCFV on enamel demineralization was assessed in vitro on extracted human teeth specimens stored in S. mutans-containing medium. The film thickness of LCFV significantly decreased with the incorporation of zwitterionic materials compared to the control LCFV, whereas there were no significant differences in the DC among all of the LCFV groups. Furthermore, the amount of adsorbed protein, adherent S. mutans colony-forming unit (CFU) counts, and saliva-derived biofilm thickness and biomass were all significantly lower for LCFV with incorporated zwitterionic materials compared with the control. All LCFV groups including the control showed certain preventive effects against enamel demineralization during a 14-day immersion in the medium with S. mutans and sucrose, and the depth of demineralization was significantly lower in LCFV with zwitterionic materials than in the control. Thus, the incorporation of zwitterionic materials such as MPC, CBMA, and SBMA appears to confer superior antifouling effects to LCFV.

The aim of this study is to investigate the resistance of various fluoride-releasing restorative materials against the demineralization and remineralization of enamel surfaces, including those that have been recently introduced to the market. Three different fluoride-releasing restorative materials were considered: glass ionomer (FI), resin-modified glass ionomer (RL), and an alkasite restorative material (CN). The acid neutralization ability was investigated using pH measurement, and the concentrations of released fluoride and calcium ions were measured. Finally, the demineralization resistance and remineralization effects of enamel were observed using a microhardness tester and SEM. CN showed an initial substantial increase in pH followed by a steady increase, with values higher than those of the other groups (p &lt, 0.05). All three groups released fluoride ions, and the CN group released more calcium ions than the other groups (p &lt, 0.05). In the acid resistance test, from the microhardness and SEM images, the CN group showed effective resistance to demineralization. In the remineralization test, the microhardness results showed that the FI and CN groups recovered the microhardness from the values of the demineralized enamel surface (p &lt, 0.05). This was confirmed by the SEM images from remineralization tests, the CN group showed a recovered demineralized surface when immersed in artificial saliva for 7 days. In conclusion, alkasite restorative material can be an effective material when used in cariogenic environments.

The increased demand for marine oil dietary supplements requires rapid and accurate screening to verify product quality and accuracy of label declarations. Simple and rapid procedures, based on spectra from a portable Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) device and a benchtop FT-near infrared (FT-NIR) spectrometer combined with chemometrics, were developed to: (1) differentiate sources of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) in their natural triacylglycerol (TAG) or concentrated ethyl ester (EE) forms, and (2) quantify six main fatty acids (FA)/FA classes. A partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) model developed for ATR-FTIR data was successfully used to classify a large number of representative products (n = 95) as belonging to the TAG or EE classes, or as mixtures of such. Broad-based partial least squares regression (PLSR) models for each of six fatty acid (FA)/FA classes were successfully validated by cross-validation and by using an independent validation test set. For both complementary procedures, PLSR model predictions showed good linear correlations with a reference gas chromatographic method (R2 > 0.91) and excellent predictive qualities for eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). These simple, rapid, and nondestructive spectroscopic procedures have the potential for differentiating between natural and concentrated forms of omega-3 PUFA and verifying the accuracy of label declarations.

Objectives: To determine whether the success rate and primary stability of surface-treated miniscrews differ from those of nontreated miniscrews. Materials and Methods: Patients who required one or more miniscrews for the same reason in each quadrant were recruited into a single-blinded, split-mouth, randomized, controlled trial with a 1:1 allocation ratio. Self-drilling miniscrews with two surface types were used: those with no surface treatment, and those with an acid-etched surface treatment. The cumulative success rate and primary stability of each type of miniscrew were examined, and factors potentially affecting the success and failure of miniscrews were investigated. Results: Forty patients were included in the study, with a total of 98 orthodontic miniscrews. The overall success rate was 88.8%, and the respective success rates for acid-etched and machined surface miniscrews were 91.8% and 85.7%. The respective mean insertion torques were 13.62 ± 5.95 N·cm and 13.38 ± 4 N·cm, and periotest values measured immediately after insertion were −0.50 ± 2.77 for acid-etched miniscrews and −0.28 ± 3.36 for machined surface miniscrews. There was no significant difference in the mean insertion torques and periotest values according to surface treatment and jaw. Conclusions: Neither the success rate nor the primary stability of acid-etched surface miniscrews and machined surface miniscrews differed significantly. There is a high possibility that miniscrews will fall out in patients who have an open bite or those who require total distalization.

Flowable resins used for dental restoration are subject to biofilm formation. Zinc has antibacterial properties. Thus, we prepared a zinc-doped phosphate-based glass (Zn-PBG) to dope a flowable resin and evaluated the antibacterial activity of the composite against Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans) to extrapolate the preventative effect toward secondary caries. The composites were prepared having 0 (control), 1.9, 3.8, and 5.4 wt.% Zn-PBG. The flexural strength, elastic modulus, microhardness, depth of cure, ion release, inhibition zone size, and number of colony-forming units were evaluated and analyzed using ANOVA. The flexural strength of the control was significantly higher than those of Zn-PBG samples (p &lt, 0.05). However, all samples meet the International Standard, ISO 4049. The microhardness was not significantly different for the control group and 1.9 and 3.8 wt.% groups, but the 5.4 wt.% Zn-PBG group had a significantly lower microhardness (p &lt, 0.05). Further, the composite resins increasingly released P, Ca, Na, and Zn ions with an increase in Zn-PBG content (p &lt, 0.05). The colony-forming unit count revealed a significant reduction in S. mutans viability (p &lt, 0.05) with increase in Zn-PBG content. Therefore, the addition of Zn-PBG to flowable composite resins enhances antibacterial activity and could aid the prevention of secondary caries.

Since pits and fissures are the areas most commonly affected by caries due to their structural irregularity, bioactive resin-based sealant (RBS) may contribute to the prevention of secondary caries. This study aims to investigate the mechanical, physical, ion-release, enamel remineralisation, and antibacterial capabilities of the novel RBS with bioactive glass (BAG) and 2-methacryloyloxyethyl phosphorylcholine (MPC). For the synthesis, 12.5 wt% BAG and 3 wt% MPC were incorporated into RBS. The contact angle, flexural strength, water sorption, solubility, and viscosity were investigated. The release of multiple ions relating to enamel remineralisation was investigated. Further, the attachments of bovine serum albumin, brain heart infusion broth, and Streptococcus mutans on RBS were studied. Finally, the thickness and biomass of a human saliva-derived microsm biofilm model were analysed before aging, with static immersion aging and with thermocycling aging. In comparison to commercial RBS, BAG+MPC increased the wettability, water sorption, solubility, viscosity, and release of multiple ions, while the flexural strength did not significantly differ. Furthermore, RBS with MPC and BAG+MPC significantly reduced protein and bacteria adhesion and suppressed multi-species biofilm attachment regardless of the existence of aging and its type. The novel RBS has great potential to facilitate enamel remineralisation and suppress biofilm adhesion, which could prevent secondary dental caries.

The surface molecular chemistry, such as amine functionality, of biomaterials plays a crucial role in the osteogenic activity of relevant cells and tissues during hard tissue regeneration. Here, we examined the possibilities of creating amine functionalities on the surface of titanium by using the nonthermal atmospheric pressure plasma jet (NTAPPJ) method with humidified ammonia, and the effects on human mesenchymal stem cell (hMSC) were investigated. Titanium samples were subjected to NTAPPJ treatments using nitrogen (N-P), air (A-P), or humidified ammonia (NA-P) as the plasma gas, while control (C-P) samples were not subjected to plasma treatment. After plasma exposure, all treatment groups showed increased hydrophilicity and had more attached cells than the C-P. Among the plasma-treated samples, the A-P and NA-P showed surface oxygen functionalities and exhibited greater cell proliferation than the C-P and N-P. The NA-P additionally showed surface amine-related functionalities and exhibited a higher level of alkaline phosphatase activity and osteocalcin expression than the other samples. The results can be explained by increases in fibronectin absorption and focal adhesion kinase gene expression on the NA-P samples. These findings suggest that NTAPPJ technology with humidified ammonia as a gas source has clinical potential for hard tissue generation.

Prevention of dental caries is a key research area, and improvement of the pit and fissure sealants used for caries prevention has been of particular interest. This report describes results of incorporating a zwitterion, sulfobetaine methacrylate (SB), into photo-polymerized resin-based sealants to enhance resistance to cariogenic bacteria and protein adhesion. Varying amounts (1.5&ndash, 5 wt%) of SB were incorporated into a resin-based sealant, and the flexural strength, wettability, depth of cure, protein adhesion, bacterial viability, and cell cytotoxicity of the resultant sealants were evaluated. The flexural strength decreased with the increasing SB content, but this decrease was statistically significant only for sealants containing &ge, 3 wt% SB. Incorporating a zwitterion led to a significant reduction in the water contact angle and protein adhesion. The colony-forming unit count showed a significant reduction in the bacterial viability of S. mutans, which was confirmed with microscopic imaging. Moreover, cell cytotoxicity analysis of SB-modified sealants using an L929 fibroblast showed a cytotoxicity comparable to that of an unmodified control, suggesting no adverse effects on the cellular metabolism upon SB introduction. Hence, we conclude that the addition of 1.5&ndash, 3 wt% SB can significantly enhance the inherent ability of sealants to resist S. mutans adhesion and prevent dental caries.

It is essential for 3D-printed intra-oral appliances to be able to withstand the mechanical and microbial insult existent in the harsh environment of the oral cavity. Poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA)-based appliances are widely used in dentistry. Hence, the present study aimed to evaluate the role of nanodiamonds (NDs) as fillers to enhance the resistance to friction and wear. Using a solution-based mixing technique, 0.1 wt% ND was incorporated into the PMMA, and specimens were 3D-printed for tribological and bacterial analysis. The control specimens without ND fillers were tested against specimens with both amine-functionalized NDs (A-ND) and pure non-functionalized NDs (ND). The surface hardness test revealed a statistically significant increase in the Vickers micro-hardness (p 0.001) in the nanocomposite groups. There was a significant reduction in the coefficient of friction (COF) (p 0.01) in both the ND and A-ND nanocomposites compared to the stainless steel (SS) counter surfaces. However, for titanium (Ti)-based specimens, the COF of the control group was similar to that of A-ND but lower than that of ND. The wear resistance evaluation revealed that both the ND and A-ND groups displayed enhanced resistance to surface loss in comparison to the controls for both SS and Ti counter-surfaces (p 0.001). Furthermore, both A-ND and ND exhibited significantly enhanced resistance to the formation of Streptococcus mutans biofilms after 48 h (p 0.01) compared to the control group. Hence, we concluded that the addition of 0.1 wt% ND in the PMMA-based resin for 3D printing resulted in significant improvement in properties such as COF, wear resistance, and resistance to S. mutans, without any notable impact associated with the functionalization of the NDs.

Herein we evaluate the effect of nanodiamond (ND) incorporation on the mechanical properties of poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) nanocomposite. Three quantities of ND (0.1, 0.3, and 0.5 wt.%) were tested against the control and zirconium oxide nanoparticles (ZrO). Flexural strength and elastic modulus were measured using a three-point bending test, surface hardness was evaluated using the Vickers hardness test, and surface roughness was evaluated using atomic force microscopy (AFM), while fungal adhesion and viability were studied using Candida albicans. Samples were also analyzed for biofilm thickness and biomass in a saliva-derived biofilm model. All groups of ND-PMMA nanocomposites had significantly greater mean flexural strengths and statistically improved elastic modulus, compared to the control and ZrO groups (P &lt, 0.001). The Vickers hardness values significantly increased compared to the control group (P &lt, 0.001) with 0.3% and 0.5% ND. ND addition also gave significant reduction in fungal adhesion and viability (P &lt, 0.001) compared to the control group. Finally, salivary biofilm formation was markedly reduced compared to the ZrO group. Hence, the incorporation of 0.1&ndash, 0.5 wt.% ND with auto- polymerized PMMA resin significantly improved the flexural strength, elastic modulus, and surface hardness, and provided considerable fungal resistance.

Litter decomposition involves multiple complex processes, including interactions between the physicochemical characteristics of litter species and various environmental factors. We selected four representative pine species in South Korea (Pinus densiflora Siebold &amp, Zucc., Pinus thunbergii Parl., Pinus koraiensis Siebold &amp, Zucc., and Pinus rigida Miller) to investigate the decay rate and effects of the physicochemical properties on decomposition. Needle litters were incubated in microcosms at 23 &deg, C for 280 days and retrieved four times in about 70-day intervals. The mass loss showed significant differences among the species and was higher in the order of P. densiflora (30.5%), P. koraiensis (27.8%), P. rigida (26.5%), and P. thunbergii (23.6%). The needle litter decomposition showed a negative relationship with the initial surface area, volume, density, cellulose content, and lignin/nitrogen of the litter, and a positive relationship with the initial specific leaf area (SLA), surface-area-to-volume ratio (SA/V), and water- and ethanol-soluble substances. The decomposition rate was highly affected by the physical properties of litter when compared with the initial chemical litter quality, and it was strongly influenced by SLA and SA/V. Accordingly, the physical properties of pine needle litter, especially SLA and SA/V, may be the key factors, and they could be used as predictive indices for the decomposition rate of pine tree litters.

We evaluated the efficacy of light-curable fluoride varnish (LCFV) that contains 2-methacryloyloxyethyl phosphorylcholine (MPC) in terms of anti-biofouling properties and prevention of tooth enamel demineralization. MPC was mixed with and incorporated into LCFV at 0 (control), 1.5, 3.0, 5.0, 10.0, 20.0, and 40.0 weight percentage (wt%). Addition of high wt% of MPC resulted in increased film thickness and decreased the degree of conversion, indicating loss of the advantageous properties of LCFV. Addition of 1.5, 3, or 5 wt% MPC significantly reduced the amount of bovine serum albumin adsorbed from a solution and proteins adsorbed from brain heart infusion medium compared to the control (P Streptococcus mutans cells adhered on the surface of LCFV with 1.5, 3, or 5 wt% MPC (P Actinomyces naeslundii and Streptococcus sanguinis adherence to LCFV with 3 wt% MPC. Finally, bacterial adhesion, surface microhardness loss, and the depth of demineralization were substantially lower on bovine tooth enamel surface coated with LCFV containing 3 wt% of MPC than in the control treatment (0 wt% MPC). Therefore, this novel LCFV containing a low concentration of MPC (e.g., 3 wt%) would be effective in anti-biofouling while maintaining the important advantageous features of light-curable fluoride in preventing demineralization.

Poly(methyl methacralyate) (PMMA) has long been used in dentistry as a base polymer for dentures, and it is recently being used for the 3D printing of dental materials. Despite its many advantages, its susceptibility to microbial colonization remains to be overcome. In this study, the interface between 3D-printed PMMA specimens and oral salivary biofilm was studied following the addition of zwitterionic materials, 2-methacryloyloxyethyl phosphorylcholine (MPC) or sulfobetaine methacrylate (SB). A significant reduction in bacterial and biofilm adhesions was observed following the addition of MPC or SB, owing to their protein-repellent properties, and there were no significant differences between the two test materials. Although the mechanical properties of the tested materials were degraded, the statistical value of the reduction was minimal and all the properties fulfilled the requirements set by the International Standard, ISO 20795-2. Additionally, both the test materials maintained their resistance to biofilm when subjected to hydrothermal fatigue, with no further deterioration of the mechanical properties. Thus, novel 3D-printable PMMA incorporated with MPC or SB shows durable oral salivary biofilm resistance with maintenance of the physical and mechanical properties.

The increasing demand for orthodontic treatment over recent years has led to a growing need for the retrieval and reuse of titanium-based miniscrews to reduce the cost of treatment, especially in patients with early treatment failure due to insufficient primary stability. This in vitro study aimed to evaluate differences in the primary stability between initially inserted and re-inserted miniscrews within different cortical bone densities. Artificial bone was used to simulate cortical bone of different densities, namely 20, 30, 40, and 50 pound per cubic foot (pcf), where primary stability was evaluated based on maximum insertion torque (MIT), maximum removal torque (MRT), horizontal resistance, and micromotion. Scanning electron microscopy was used to evaluate morphological changes in the retrieved miniscrews. The MIT, MRT, horizontal resistance, and micromotion was better in samples with higher cortical bone density, thereby indicating better primary stability (P &lt, 0.05). Furthermore, a significant reduction of MIT, MRT, and horizontal resistance was observed during re-insertion compared with the initial insertion, especially in the higher density cortical bone groups. However, there was no significant change in micromotion. While higher cortical bone density led to better primary stability, it also caused more abrasion to the miniscrews, thereby decreasing the primary stability during re-insertion.

In this study, we aimed to assess the surface characteristics and the biomechanical stability of miniscrews with an anodic oxidized surface compared with machined surface miniscrews in beagle dogs.Self-drilled, titanium-aluminum-vanadium alloy miniscrews with an anodic oxidized surface (n = 48) or a machined surface (n = 48) were placed into the mandibles of 12 beagle dogs. The surface characteristics of both types of miniscrews were analyzed before implantation with scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy. Insertion torque was measured during placement of all 96 miniscrews. Half of the implants in each group (24 specimens per subgroup) received 200 to 250 g of tensile force for 3-week or 12-week loading periods. Removal torque was measured in 12 specimens of each subgroup, and bone-implant contact and bone volume were quantified in the other 12 specimens of each subgroup.Atomic force microscopy measurements demonstrated that the anodic oxidized surface miniscrews had significantly higher roughness parameters than did the machined surface miniscrews (P 0.001). The 2 types of miniscrews were not significantly different in insertion and removal torque values or in bone-implant contacts and bone volumes, regardless of the loading period.Anodic oxidized miniscrews have different surface roughness profiles but no clinically significant superiority in biomechanical stability compared with machined surface miniscrews.

Significant progress has been made in endowing biomedical materials with antibacterial properties. However, the commercialization of these systems still poses various practical challenges. In this study, we report a facile technique for the preparation of practical and efficient antibacterial coatings based on well-defined polysilsesquioxane (PSQ) structures containing quaternary ammonium cation and long alkyl chains. PSQ is a hybrid material containing organic groups within a flexible and robust siloxane network, and can be endowed with different functions according to the synthetic conditions employed in the sol-gel process. However, depending on the synthetic precursors, a non-uniform PSQ structure can be formed, which limits the functions and stability of the resulting material. Accordingly, we synthesized PSQs with homogeneously distributed quaternary ammonium cation and long alkyl chains, using optimized synthetic conditions. The PSQs were coated on devices via self-assembly, and the thickness of the coating could be controlled from the nano- to the microscale depending on the deposition time. All coated substrates exhibited more than 60% bacterial reduction rate for three types of bacteria compared to the control groups. The coating inhibited the activity of the membrane adhesins, which prevented the strong adhesion of bacteria to the surfaces. Furthermore, the coated substrates also showed an increased mechanical strength in bulk strength tests. The nanoscale coatings notably increased the hardness of the dental substrates more than twofold compared to that of the control. The easy preparation and efficacy of the PSQs highlight their applicability as antibacterial coatings in various medical devices requiring high durability.

The creation of clinically patient-specific 3D-printed biomedical appliances that can withstand the physical stresses of the complex biological environment is an important objective. To that end, this study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of aminated nanodiamonds (A-NDs) as nanofillers in biological-grade acrylate-based 3D-printed materials. Solution-based mixing was used to incorporate 0.1 wt% purified nanodiamond (NDs) and A-NDs into UV-polymerized poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA). The ND and A-ND nanocomposites showed significantly lower water contact angles (p &lt, 0.001) and solubilities (p &lt, 0.05) compared to those of the control. Both nanocomposites showed markedly improved mechanical properties, with the A-ND-containing nanocomposite showing a statistically significant increase in the flexural strength (p &lt, 0.001), elastic modulus (p &lt, 0.01), and impact strength (p &lt, 0.001) compared to the control and ND-containing groups. The Vickers hardness and wear-resistance values of the A-ND-incorporated material were significantly higher (p &lt, 0.001) than those of the control and were comparable to the values observed for the ND-containing group. In addition, trueness analysis was used to verify that 3D-printed orthodontic brackets prepared with the A-ND- and ND-nanocomposites exhibited no significant differences in accuracy. Hence, we conclude that the successful incorporation of 0.1 wt% A-ND in UV-polymerized PMMA resin significantly improves the mechanical properties of the resin for the additive manufacturing of precisive 3D-printed biomedical appliances.

The aim of this study was to evaluate whether combining two treatments to avoid biological aging of the surface of titanium and zirconia implants; i.e., storage in an aqueous solution after ultraviolet light (UV) or non-thermal atmospheric pressure plasma (NTP) treatment, yielded surface bioactivity comparable to that following post-15-min UV or NTP treatment storage under air or immediately after UV or NTP treatment. Grade IV titanium discs modified by large grit sand-blasting and acid-etching (SLA) and smooth zirconia discs were irradiated with UV or NTP and their surface properties were evaluated immediately and after storage for 8 weeks in distilled H2O (dH2O) and a sealed container under air. Approximately 15–30 nm-sized nano-protrusions were formed only on SLA surfaces in dH2O immediately after UV or NTP treatment. Immediate dH2O storage after UV or NTP treatment prevented hydrocarbon contamination and maintained elevated amounts of Ti and Zr. After 8 weeks, unlike zirconia, protein adsorption, cellular adhesion, and cytoskeletal development of MC3T3-E1 cells on SLA surfaces stored in dH2O immediately after UV treatment were further exceeding those immediately after UV or NTP treatments. UV treatment of SLA implants followed by wet storage can not only maintain but also strengthen bioactivity during shelf storage.

Objective We evaluated whether the biological activity of the surface of titanium, when stored in an aqueous solution, in low vacuum, and under ambient conditions after ultraviolet light (UV) treatment is comparable to that of the surface immediately after UV treatment for 15 min and that after dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) plasma treatment for 15 min. Methods Grade IV titanium discs with machined surfaces were irradiated with UV and their surface properties were evaluated immediately and after storage for 28 days in distilled H 2 O (dH 2 O), a vacuum desiccator (31.325 kPa), and a sealed container under air. Their surface characteristics were evaluated by atomic force microscopy, X-ray diffraction, contact angle analysis, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Biological activities were determined by analyzing the albumin adsorption, MC3T3-E1 cell adhesion, and cytoskeleton development. Results Hydrophilicity of titanium surfaces stored in dH 2 O was comparable to that immediately after UV treatment and higher than that immediately after DBD plasma treatment ( P 0.001). Storage in dH 2 O and in low vacuum immediately after UV treatment prevented hydrocarbon contamination and maintained elevated amounts of titanium and oxygen. After 28 days, protein adsorption, cellular adhesion, and cytoskeletal development of MC3T3-E1 cells on the titanium surfaces stored in dH 2 O were significantly enhanced compared to those stored in low vacuum and under ambient conditions while being comparable to those immediately after UV and DBD plasma treatments. Significance UV treatment of the titanium implants followed by wet storage is useful for maintaining enhanced biological activity and overcoming biological aging during shelf storage.

We evaluated whether the biological activity of the surface of titanium, when stored in an aqueous solution after ultraviolet (UV) treatment, is comparable to that of the surface immediately after UV treatment. We subjected Grade IV titanium discs with machined surfaces to UV radiation for 15 min and then tested them immediately and after storage for 28 days, with and without distilled H2O (dH2O). We evaluated the surface characteristics using surface profiling, contact angle analysis, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and in terms of the surface zeta-potential. We determined the level of biological activity by analysing albumin adsorption, MC3T3-E1 and human mesenchymal cell adhesion and cytoskeleton development, as well as the production of intracellular reactive oxygen species between groups. The surface characteristics produced by the UV irradiation were maintained in dH2O for 28 days. We found that titanium stored in dH2O for 28 days after UV treatment exhibited enhanced protein adsorption, cell attachment, and cytoskeleton development. Titanium stored in dH2O for 28 days after UV irradiation exhibited a lower level of oxidative stress, comparable to that of the titanium immediately after UV treatment. UV treatment combined with wet storage can be used as a means of overcoming the biological aging of titanium.

Calcium silicate-based cements (CSCs) are commonly used for endodontic procedures; however, their antibacterial effects are limited. The objective of this study was to develop a 2-methacryloyloxyethyl phosphorylcholine (MPC)-incorporated CSC with improved antibacterial properties, while maintaining the original advantageous features of CSC. MPC was incorporated into a commercial CSC (Endocem MTA) at 0 wt% (control), 1.5%, 3.0 wt%, 5.0 wt%, 7.5 wt%, and 10 wt%. The setting time, compressive strength, water sorption, and glycerol contact angle were measured. Protein absorption was measured and bacterial adhesion on the surface was evaluated using Enterococcus faecalis. The bactericidal effect was examined by the disc diffusion test. Mineralization ability was assessed based on calcium ion deposition, as assessed by alizarin red staining, after immersion into Hank's balanced salt solution for 7 days. High concentrations of MPC in CSC (7.5 wt% and 10 wt%) increased the setting time, reduced compressive strength, and reduced wettability. MPC (3 wt%) had greater protein repellent and anti-biofouling effects than those of control and test materials (P < 0.001). However, no bactericidal effect was observed for any control or test materials. There was greater calcium ion deposition on the surface of MPC-supplemented CSC than on the control (P < 0.001). The addition of 3 wt% MPC polymer to CSC confers protein-repellent properties and reduced bacterial attachment, with the potential for improved mineralization.

Gas/liquid two-phase ejector is a device without moving parts, in which liquid is used to drivegas of a low-pressure source. In this paper, the hydrodynamic characteristics of a vertical down type two-phase ejector were studied using an air-water loop system. Entrained air flow rates were measured withinlet and outlet pressures of the ejector with varying water flow rate. Homogeneous bubbly flows in thedischarge pipe were confirmed by the high speed flow visualization method. Quantitative measurementsof void fraction were made using a newly developed fiber optic probe system. Key Words:Two-Phase Flow (이상유동), Ejector (이젝터), Flow Visualization (유동가시화), Fiber opticprobe(광섬유 탐침), Void fraction(기포분율) 1. 서론 기체-액체 이상유동 이젝터는 설치가 간편하고, 안정적인 작동 특성으로 인하여 여러 가지 경우의 화학공정및 플랜트에서 중요하게 사용되는 장치중 하나이다. 이상유동 이젝터는 액체를 주유동으로 분사시키고, 이젝터의 목 부분에서 형성되는 음압으로 기체를 흡입하여혼합과정과 이송과정을 동시에 실현시킨다 (1, 2) . 이젝터에 관한 선행연구로 Witte(1962)는 다중 오리피스와 상당히 긴 혼합튜브를 이용하여 이젝터의 등온압축효율이 40%까지 개선될 수 있음을 보고하였다. 이젝터의 성능을 평가하기 위한 최소한의 측정값은 1차유체 및 2차 유체의 체적 유량과 세 지점의 압력 즉 이젝터 전단 압력 P

In this study, we attempted to control invaded hetero-species turfgrass in golf courses with herbicides. Asulam sodium SP and trifloxysulfuron-sodium WG (to control creeping bentgrass in zoysiagrass), trifloxysulfuron-sodium WG (to control kentucky bluegrass in zoysiagrass), and mesotrione SC (to control creeping bentgrass in kentucky bluegrass) were selected as efficient herbicides. To creeping bentgrass, asulam sodium SP and trifloxysulfuron-sodium WG until 70 days after application (DAA), mesotrione SC until 230 DAA and to kentucky bluegrass trifloxysulfuron-sodium WG until 110 DAA; the applications showed 90% herbicidal effect. At 4 X recommended application dose, asulam sodium SP, trifloxysulfuronsodium WG (to zoysiagrass) and mesotrione (to kentucky bluegrass) showed insignificant harmful effect. With recommended dose, asulam sodium SP showed 80% control effect of creeping bentgrass in zoysiagrass until 40 DAA and trifloxysulfuron-sodium WG demonstrated 85% control efficiency until 30 DAA. Trifloxysulfuron-sodium WG controlled 85% of kentucky bluegrass in zoysiagrass until 40 DAA. Mesotrione SC with recommended dose showed 95% control efficiency to creeping bentgrass in kentucky bluegrass.

Here, we evaluated time-dependent changes in the effects of ultraviolet (UV) and nonthermal atmospheric pressure plasma (NTAPPJ) on the biological activity of titanium compared with that of untreated titanium. Grade IV machined surface titanium discs (12-mm diameter) were used immediately and stored up to 28 days after 15-min UV or 10-min NTAPPJ treatment. Changes of surface characteristics over time were evaluated using scanning electron microscopy, surface profiling, contact angle analysis, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and surface zeta-potential. Changes in biological activity over time were as determined by analysing bovine serum albumin adsorption, MC3T3-E1 early adhesion and morphometry, and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity between groups. We found no differences in the effects of treatment on titanium between UV or NTAPPJ over time; both treatments resulted in changes from negatively charged hydrophobic (bioinert) to positively charged hydrophilic (bioactive) surfaces, allowing enhancement of albumin adsorption, osteoblastic cell attachment, and cytoskeleton development. Although this effect may not be prolonged for promotion of cell adhesion until 4 weeks, the effects were sufficient to maintain ALP activity after 7 days of incubation. This positive effect of UV and NTAPPJ treatment can enhance the biological activity of titanium over time.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the structural stability of anodic oxidation treatment of miniscrews during a self-drilling procedure and an initial loading period. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Eight orthodontic miniscrews with a machined surface and an anodic oxidized surface were placed in the mandible of two beagle dogs. With all miniscrews, an orthodontic force was applied immediately after placement and was continued for 12 weeks. After beagle dogs were sacrificed, the miniscrews were carefully removed from decalcified bone fragments. Miniscrews were evaluated by comparing and quantitatively analyzing changes in surface roughness of unused and used miniscrews (machined surface vs anodic oxidized surface) utilizing both scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). RESULTS: SEM revealed that only a thread edge close to the tip of the used anodic oxidized miniscrew became smooth by smearing, compared with the unused anodic oxidized miniscrew. No definite changes were observed in the thread valleys of the two groups after placement. AFM measurements demonstrated that all surface roughness parameters of thread edges of the used anodic oxidized miniscrews were significantly reduced compared with the unused anodic oxidized miniscrew (P < .05). A middle thread edge of the used anodic miniscrew surface was rougher than the unused and used machined surface miniscrews (P < .05). CONCLUSION: Anodic oxidized miniscrews had improved surface characteristics compared with machined surface miniscrews, even if the surface texture was changed by the self-drilling procedure and during the initial loading period.

Eu3+-doped (Y,Gd)NbO4 phosphor was synthesized by solid-state reaction for possible application in cold cathode fluorescent lamps.A broad absorption band with peak maximum at 272 nm was observed which was due to the charge transfer between Eu3+ ions and neighboring oxygen anions.A deep red emission at the peak wavelength of 612 nm was observed which could be attributed to the 5D0→7F2 transition in Eu3+ ions.The highest luminance for Y1x-yGdyNbO4:Eux3+ under 254 nm excitation was achieved at Eu3+ concentration of 18 mol.％(x=0.18) and Gd3+ concentration of 8.2 mol.％ (v=0.082).The luminance of Y0.738Gd0.082NbO4:Eu3+0.18 was higher than that of a typical commercial phosphor Y2O3:Eu3+ and the CIE chromaticity coordinate was (0.6490,0.3506),which was deeper than that of Y2O3:Eu3+.The particle size of the synthesized phosphors was controlled by the NaCl flux and particle size as high as 8μm with uniform size distribution of particles was obtained.

In this study, cast bulk specimens and powder sintered specimens were produced from a Fe-22% Cr-5.8% Al alloy, which has been drawing industrial attention for its outstanding high-thermal and oxidation resistance as well as for its applicability as a filter and support material. The high-temperature oxidation behaviors of the specimens were compared and analyzed. Two types of specimens were subjected to 24-hour isothermal oxidation (temperatures of 900 °C, 1000 °C, and 1100 °C and a gas atmosphere of 79% N2+21% O2) to understand their high-temperature oxidation properties. The oxidized specimens were examined via X-ray, SEM, FE-SEM, and EPMA for microstructure and oxide analyses. The results of the oxidation tests showed that both bulk and powder-sintered specimens gained weight as temperature increased, with the powder sintered specimens gaining far more weight than the bulk specimens. As the temperature increased, the bulk specimens showed sequential formation of Al2O3, Cr2O3, and Fe3O4 oxide layers. The stable Al2O3 on the surface of the bulk specimens was found to play a role in arresting the rapid growth of oxide layers. In the powder-sintered specimens, however, the internal diffusion of O2 easily took place along the powder interfaces. As a result, far more oxidation occurred in the powder-sintered specimens than in the bulk specimens. Cracks and disintegration of the oxide layers were also found to have occurred as the temperature increased. The high-temperature oxidation mechanisms of bulk and powder-sintered materials in relation to temperature increase are further discussed.

The herbicidal action of clove oil on cucumber seedlings was characterized under light and dark conditions. Paraquat showed herbicidal activity only under the light condition, whereas the clove oil displayed herbicidal activity in both the light and the dark condition. Specifically, wilting and water content reduction progressed rapidly under both the light and the dark condition 1 h after the clove oil treatment, whereas the paraquat damage occurred only under the light condition 5 h after treatment. The malondialdehyde concentration increased more with the clove oil treatment than with the paraquat treatment under the light and dark conditions. The superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity was stimulated, but the catalase activity decreased in the clove oil treatment. In contrast, both the SOD and catalase activity decreased in the paraquat treatment. These results suggest that clove oil exerts herbicidal effects through a mechanism that is different from that of paraquat.

This study investigated the effect of the pore size of Ni-22.4%Fe-22%Cr-6%Al porous metal on its hightemperature oxidation. Two types of open porous metals with pore sizes of 800 μm and 580 μm were used. A 24-hour isothermal oxidation test was conducted at three different temperatures of 900 °C, 1000 °C, and 1100 °C under a 79% N2 + 21% O2 atmosphere. The results of the BET analysis revealed that the specific surface area increased as the pore size decreased from 800 μm to 580 μm. The high-temperature oxidation results showed that porous metals exhibited far lower levels of oxidation resistance compared with bulk metals, and that the oxidation resistance of porous metals decreased with a decreasing pore size. According to the microstructural observations of the oxide layers, the 900 °C and 1000 °C oxidation layer contained Ni, Cr, and Al oxides mainly on the strut. The 800 μm porous metal strut exhibited similar oxidation behavior at 1100 °C to that found at lower temperatures. In contrast, the 580 μm porous metal strut was found to consist of Ni and Fe oxides in the upper layer and Ni, Cr, and Al oxides in the lower layer, representing a low oxidation resistance. For powders affixed to the strut inside the porous metal, a different oxide-forming behavior from that of the strut was observed. In addition, the Ni-Fe-Cr-Al porous metal high-temperature oxidation microscopic mechanism is also discussed.

This study investigated the high temperature oxidation behavior of Fe-22%Cr-5.8%Al alloy and the oxidation kinetics of the alloy were discussed. Bulk samples were prepared by VAM (vacuum arc melting) and hot forging. High temperature oxidation testes were isothermally conducted up to 100 hours in 79%+21% environment at three different temperatures (, , ). The weight gain was measured after oxidation according to oxidation time (2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 60, 80, 100 hours). The weight gain significantly increased with increasing oxidation temperature. As the temperature increased, the oxidized samples showed sequential formation of , Cr-rich oxide, Fe-rich oxide. The activation energy of high temperature oxidation was obtained as 306.63 KJ/mol. were developed on the surface in the early stage of oxidation, representing protective role of oxidation. However, Fe-based and Cr-based oxides leaded to breakaway of oxide layer, thus resulted in the significant increase of additional oxidation.

This study attempted to investigate the high temperature tensile deformation behaviour of new Al-1%Mg-1.1%Si0.8%CoNi heat resistant aluminium alloy. New aluminium alloy strengthened by Co-Ni based phase was manufactured by using powder ball milling and continuous casting, based on the alloy design & preliminary test. High temperature tensile tests were conducted at various temperatures from 25�� to 450�� . OM, SEM, EPMA, XRD, FIB and HR-TEM equipments were used to analyse microstructure, phases, and fracture surface. Microstructure of the new alloy mainly consisted of Al matrix and Co-Ni based phases (1~8 Πm). The Co-Ni based phase was analyzed and confirmed as (Ni, Co)3Al having incoherent interface with matrix. In high temperature tensile results, the new aluminium alloy didn’t show significant decrease (19.6%) of strength with increasing temperature (450�E ), suggesting totally different behaviour with conventional A319 alloy (87.0% decrease of T.S.). Fractography observation results of new alloy represented the ductile fracture mode with dimples. Voids were mainly initiated at Co-Ni based strengthening phases. It was apparently observed that the strengthening effect of the (Ni, Co)3Al could be still maintained at high temperature of 450�� . The deformation mechanism of this alloy was also discussed. © 2011 Published by Elsevier Ltd. Selection and/or peer-review under responsibility of ICM11

This study was conducted to investigate the phytotoxic effects of 19 essential oils on seed germination and initial growth of rapeseed (Brassica napus L.). We found that anise, cinnamon, citronella, clove, geranium, lemongrass, mustard and pine oils completely inhibited germination of rapeseed at 100× dilute solution. Based on the inhibition rates of rapeseed emergence and initial growth, three essential oils (cinnamon, clove, and geranium) were selected as potential bio-herbicides. Under pre-emergence applications of cinnamon, clove, and geranium oils at 90 kg ai ha -1 , rates of rapeseed emergence were 7.1, 25.0, and 3.6% and its initial growth were 22.0, 9.9 and 11.0%, respectively.

Previous diagnosing methods based on agglutination have a limitation in view of emergency and point-of-care diagnoses due to the requirement of large scale equipments and much agglutination time. In this paper, we propose a low cost microfluidic lab-on-a-chip for more efficient detection of agglutination. In the present lab-on-a-chip, two inlet microwells, flow guiding microchannels, chaotic micromixer and reaction microwell are fully integrated. Mold inserts for the lab-on-a-chip were manufactured by UV photolithography and nickel electroplating process. The complete lab-on-a-chip was realized by the microinjection molding of cyclic olefin copolymer and the subsequent thermal bonding. The improved serpentine laminating micromixer, developed by our group, integrated in the lab-on-a-chip showed the high-level of chaotic mixing, thereby enabling us to get a reliable mixing of sample and reagent. The performance of the fabricated lab-on-a-chip was demonstrated by agglutination experiments with simulated bloods of 10 μl and simulated sera of 10 μl. The results of agglutination inside the reaction microwell were clearly read by means of the level of light transmission. The present microfluidic lab-on-a-chip could be widely applied to various clinical diagnostics based on agglutination tests.