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Matrix vesicle calcification in rat epiphyseal growth plate cartilage prepared anhydrously for electron microscopy.

The preparation of mineralizing tissues for electron microscopy by methods that involve the use of aqueous solvents may result in translocation and/or removal of mineral, leading to the possible erroneous interpretation of initial calcifying loci. The failure of a recent cryoultramicrotomy study to detect a mineral phase associated with matrix vesicles raised doubts about the role of the matrix vesicle in initial mineralization and prompted us to reexamine the ultrastructure of calcifying cartilage using three different anhydrous preparatory techniques. Matrix vesicles or structures similar in profile and location were identified in rat epiphyseal growth plate cartilages that had been subjected to freeze-substitution, cryoultramicrotomy, or ethylene glycol fixation. Furthermore, mineral deposits, as confirmed by energy dispersive x-ray analysis, were observed within or in close association with the matrix vesicles in the extracellular matrix of the growth plate cartilage by all three methods. No evidence of mineral deposition at other sites preceding matrix vesicle calcification was found. Our studies support the conclusion of many investigations that matrix vesicles are the initial site of growth plate calcification.

Animals↗

Alterations in the thyroids of rats treated for long periods with di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate or with hypolipidaemic agents.

Treatment of rats for periods of 3 months or longer with the hypolipidaemic drugs clofibrate and fenofibrate or with the plasticiser di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate causes alterations in the thyroid. The colloid is shrunken and contains calcium-rich inclusions. Electron microscopy shows increases in the number and size of lysosomes, hypertrophy of the Golgi apparatus and dilation of the rough endoplasmic reticulum. These changes are consistent with persistent hyperactivity in the gland.

Animals↗

Ultrastructure of whewellite kidney stones: electron-analytical investigation.

The investigation of the degree of interpenetration between the two component phases of whewellite kidney stones, the protein matrix and calcium oxalate monohydrate crystallites, is extended by a technique of microchemical analysis, employing X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The technique involves determining the surface elemental (hence chemical) composition of fractured whewellite stones. Comparison with the bulk composition of about 95% COM and 5% matrix yielded information on the fracture path, hence on the spatial distribution of the two phases. The results showed large increases in matrix signal upon fracture, confirming that the minor phase, matrix, which is expected to provide an easy path for fracture, pervades the structure down to the level of individual crystallites.

Calcium Oxalate↗

Hydroxyapatite/titania sol-gel coatings on titanium-zirconium alloy for biomedical applications.

A simple sol-gel method was developed for hydroxyapatite/titania (HA/TiO(2)) coatings on non-toxic titanium-zirconium (TiZr) alloy for biomedical applications. The HA/TiO(2)-coated TiZr alloy displayed excellent bioactivity when soaked in a simulated body fluid (SBF) for an appropriate period. Differential scanning calorimetry, thermogravimetric analysis, X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive spectrometry were used to characterize the phase transformations and the surface structures and to assess the in vitro tests. The HA/TiO(2) layers were spin-coated on the surface of TiZr alloy at a speed of 3000rpm for 15s, followed by a heat treatment at 600 degrees C for 20min in an argon atmosphere sequentially. The TiO(2) layer exhibited a cracked surface and an anatase structure and the HA layer displayed a uniform dense structure. Both the TiO(2) and HA layers were 25microm thick, and the total thickness of the HA/TiO(2) coatings was 50microm. The TiZr alloy after the above HA/TiO(2) coatings displayed excellent bone-like apatite-forming ability when soaked in SBF and can be anticipated to be a promising load-bearing implant material.

Alloys↗

Effect of toothbrushing on titanium surface: an approach to understanding surface properties of brushed titanium.

OBJECTIVES: This in vitro study aimed to characterize the surface morphology and composition of tooth-brushed titanium casting and thereby to elucidate interactions between the metal and abrasive material in dentifrice. METHODS: Specimens were cast from CP Ti ingots and then mirror-finished. Two fluoride-free toothpastes containing crystalline CaHPO4.2H2O and amorphous SiO2 particles as abrasive were slurried with distilled water (15 g/30 mL). While toothbrushes were reciprocated at 120 strokes/min for 350,400 strokes, the specimens were brushed with the respective slurries under a load of 2.45 N. The brushed and non-brushed surfaces were characterized by means of SPM, EPMA, and XPS. SPM data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA, followed by post hoc Tukey test (p<0.01). RESULTS: Irrespective of toothpastes, toothbrushing had a significant influence on surface roughness. The CaHPO4.2H2O-containing paste produced much rougher surface than the SiO2-containing paste. Both the surfaces were chemically altered due to reactions with the respective abrasive materials. Abrading chips had dimensions of micron to submicron order. A number of chips were attached to abrasive particles. SIGNIFICANCE: The alterations of surface morphology and composition may affect biological responses of titanium in the oral environment. Dentifrice with lower abrasivity might be advisable for daily oral hygiene practice of patients with dental titanium devices.

Calcium Phosphates↗

Characterization of Portland cement for use as a dental restorative material.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to evaluate the suitability of fast-setting cement formulations based on Portland cement as dental core build-up materials using two different methods of testing compressive strength and evaluation of setting times. METHODS: Four fast-setting cements based on Portland cement and their four respective densified with small particle (DSP) mortars were tested for setting time, constitution of cement by EDAX, and compressive strength using International and British Standards. Ordinary Portland cement (OPC) was used as a control. RESULTS: All the fast-setting cements had a similar elemental composition to OPC and the setting times were less than 7 min. The compressive strength of OPC was different between the two methods (P<0.001). All the fast-setting cements tested showed no difference in compressive strength regardless of the method of testing at 1 and 7 days (P>0.05), but the cylinders showed a lower compressive strength at 28 days (P<0.05). The OPC DSP mortar showed poorer compressive strength than OPC (P<0.01) at all times for cube testing but not for cylinder testing, where no difference was observed. The fast-setting DSP mortars had a lower compressive strength at 1 day (P<0.005) with both methods. At later times, there was no difference between the cements and DSP mortars for the cubes. SIGNIFICANCE: The pure fast-setting cements set in <7 min and were not susceptible to changes in the compressive strength testing procedure at 1 and 7 days but at 28 days all the fast-setting cements had a significantly higher strength with the test using cubes (P<0.05). A reduction in strength was observed at 28 days in cylinder testing. Most of the cements tested did not show encouraging strengths, however, one of the prototype cements tested could be a prospective dental restorative material.

Aluminum Oxide↗

Evaluation of shear bond strength at the interface of two porcelains and pure titanium injected into the casting mold at three different temperatures.

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM: Titanium has physical and mechanical properties, which have led to its increased use in dental prostheses despite casting difficulties due to high melting point and formation of oxide layers which affect the metal-ceramic bond strength. PURPOSE: This in vitro study evaluated the shear bond strength of the interface of 2 dental porcelains and pure titanium injected into a mold at 3 different temperatures. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Using commercially pure (cp) titanium bars (Titanium, Grade I) melted at 1668 degrees C and cast at mold temperatures of 430 degrees C, 700 degrees C or 900 degrees C, 60 specimens were machined to 4 x 4 mm, with a base of 5 x 1 mm. The 4-mm surfaces were airborne-particle abraded with 100 microm aluminum oxide before applying and firing the bonding agent and evaluating the 2 porcelains (Triceram/Triline ti and Vita Titankeramik). Ten specimens were prepared for each temperature and porcelain combination Shear bond testing was performed in a universal testing machine, with a 500-kg load cell and crosshead speed of 0.5 mm/min. The specimens were loaded until failure. The interfaces of representative fractured specimens of each temperature were examined with a scanning electron microscope (SEM) and energy dispersive spectrometer (EDS). Data for shear bond strength (MPa) were statistically analyzed by 2-way ANOVA and the Tukey test (alpha=.05). RESULTS: The results showed significant differences for the metal/porcelain interaction effect (P=.0464). There were no significant differences for the 2 porcelains (P=.4250). The Tukey test showed a significant difference between the pair cp Ti 430 degrees C Triceram and cp Ti 900 degrees C Triceram, with respective mean values and SDs of 59.74 +/- 11.62 and 34.03 +/- 10.35 MPa. CONCLUSION: Triceram porcelain showed a bond strength decrease with an increase in the mold temperature for casting titanium. The highest bond strength for Vita porcelain and the best metal-ceramic interface observed with the SEM were found with the mold temperature of 700 degrees C.

Air Abrasion, Dental↗

The effect of ceramic surface treatment on bonding to densely sintered alumina ceramic.

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM: Ceramic surface treatment is crucial for bonding to resin. High crystalline ceramics are poorly conditioned using traditional procedures. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of silica coating on a densely sintered alumina ceramic relative to its bond strength to composite, using a resin luting agent. Material and methods Blocks (6 x 6 x 5 mm) of ceramic and composite were made. The ceramic (Procera AllCeram) surfaces were polished, and the blocks were divided into 3 groups (n = 5): SB, airborne-particle abrasion with 110-microm Al 2 O 3 ; RS, silica coating using Rocatec System; and CS, silica coating using CoJet System. The treated ceramic blocks were luted to the composite (W3D Master) blocks using a resin luting agent (Panavia F). Specimens were stored in distilled water at 37 degrees C for 7 days and then cut in 2 axes, x and y, to obtain specimens with a bonding area of approximately 0.6 mm 2 (n = 30). The specimens were loaded to failure in tension in a universal testing machine, and data were statistically analyzed using a randomized complete block design analysis of variance and Tukey's test (alpha=.05). Fractured surfaces were examined using light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy to determine the type of failure. Energy-dispersive spectroscopy was used for surface compositional analysis. RESULTS: Mean bond strength values (MPa) of Groups RS (17.1 +/- 3.9) ( P =.00015) and CS (18.5 +/- 4.7) ( P =.00012) were significantly higher than the values of Group SB (12.7 +/- 2.6). There was no statistical difference between Groups RS and CS. All failures occurred at the adhesive zone. CONCLUSION: Tribochemical silica coating systems increased the tensile bond strength values between Panavia F and Procera AllCeram ceramic.

Air Abrasion, Dental↗

Mulberry particles formed by red blood cells in human weddelite stones.

In a series of electron microscopic studies of human urinary stones, mulberry shaped particles were observed in 5 out of 51 calcium oxalate dihydrate (COD) containing stones. The mulberries were crenation products of red blood cells which adhered to the surface of bipyramid COD crystals, followed by impregnation of the COD. The red cells appeared to participate in the crystal growth by creating foci of surface nucleation, or by formation of a layer of crust on the surface of the bipyramids which caused deposition of an additional layer of calcium oxalate. The lipid containing organic matrix seems to have a role in COD crystal growth.

Calcium↗

Exogenous pigment in Peyer's patches.

Dark brown granular pigment was found consistently in macrophages in the deep aspect of adult Peyer's patches. Tissue sections from intestinal resections of 35 patients with a variety of pathologic diagnoses and of seven postmortem cases with no evidence of gastrointestinal disease were examined for the presence of this pigment. It was found in all patients over the age of 6 years (34 cases) but was not found in any children below that age (eight cases). Scanning electron microscopy with secondary and backscattered electron imaging and x-ray energy spectroscopy were performed on routine histologic sections. The pigmented macrophages contained aluminum and silicon, diffusely present throughout the cytoplasm, and numerous discrete foci of titanium. Pigment containing these same elements has also been found around dilated submucosal lymphatics, in mesenteric lymph nodes, and in some transmural inflammatory aggregates of Crohn's disease. The pigment probably is derived from the diet and actively taken up by Peyer's patches, which are able to incorporate inert particulate matter.

Aluminum↗

Physico-chemical characterisation of the inhalable particulate matter (PM10) in an urban area: an analysis of the seasonal trend.

Between October 1998 and February 2000, 11 particulate samplings were conducted in an urban area of Rome to evaluate the seasonal trend of PM10 characteristics: seven samplings were made at ground-level and four 30 m above ground level. The samples were analysed by scanning electron microscopy equipped with an EDS X-ray attachment and by transmission electron microscopy and an electron energy-loss spectrometer. The airborne particulate matter was characterised from a physico-chemical point of view to provide information on the particle composition and on the compounds carried on their surface. The data sets, consisting of the atomic concentrations of the constituent chemical elements of the fine (PM3.3) and of the coarse (PM10-3.3) particulate, were subjected to cluster analysis to determine the principal components of PM10. In the particulate matter, the statistical analysis methods allowed us to identify seven groups (clusters) of particles: C-rich particles; carbonates; silica; silicates; sulfates; Fe-rich particles; and metals. Carbonaceous and silicate particles with a surface coating containing S were observed. This sulfur-enriched coating turned out to be a PM3.3 feature strongly dependent upon season.

Air Pollutants↗

Histochemical analysis of dental hard tissues following bleaching.

The effect of commonly used bleaching materials on the dental hard tissues was tested in extracted human premolars. In each tooth, the apical two-thirds of the root was removed, and the remaining tooth stump was cut longitudinally into two equal segments. The segments were cleaned, dried, and divided into six experimental groups. Each group was treated with one of the following bleaching materials: 30% hydrogen peroxide (HP), 10% carbamide peroxide (CP), sodium perborate (SP), Nu-Smile (NS), Opalescence (Op), and DentlBright (DB). Treatment consisted of immersing the specimens in the respective test material followed by incubation at 37 degrees C for 7 days. The levels of calcium, phosphorus, sulfur, and potassium were measured in the enamel, dentin, and cementum. In the enamel, a significant reduction in the calcium/phosphorus (Ca/P) ratio was found following treatment with HP. In the dentin, a significant reduction in Ca/P ratio was found following treatment with HP,CP, DB, and Op. In the cementum, a significant reduction in the Ca/P ratio was found following treatment with HP, CP, NS, and Op. Changes in sulfur and potassium levels also occurred, but were usually not statistically significant. Significant reduction in sulfur levels occurred only in the cementum following treatment with CP and SP. Sulfur levels increased significantly following treatment with NS. Significant reduction in potassium levels occurred only in the dentin following treatment with CP. It is concluded that bleaching materials may adversely affect the dental hard tissues and should be used with caution.

Borates↗

Titanium casting into phosphate bonded investment with zirconite.

OBJECTIVE: Reaction layer structure of the titanium castings surface was investigated when a new centrifuge-vacuum-pressure cast titanium machine and a zirconite inner investment was used. METHODS: The micro-hardness of titanium castings was measured using a Knoop's hardness tester. The structure of reaction layers and the distribution of elements on the surfaces of titanium castings were analysed by SEM and EDS, respectively, when zirconite was used as the inner investment for cast titanium. RESULTS: Knoop's micro-hardness at distances of 50 and 75 microm from the titanium casting surfaces made directly in phosphate investment molds had significantly harder surfaces than those made in zirconite coating molds. The thickness of the reaction layer on the surface of titanium castings was <35 microm with zirconite coating and was >50 microm without zirconite coating. The structure of reaction layer was divided into four layers from the outer surface to the inner including: sintering layer, alpha-Case, Si-rich layer, acicular crystal structure. The distribution of elements was different on each layer. SIGNIFICANCE: The thickness of the cast titanium reaction layer was reduced when the wax patterns were coated with zirconite. The surface of the titanium castings was smooth and without cracks, and the investment on the surface of titanium castings was easily removed.

Dental Casting Investment↗

In vitro corrosion behavior of bioceramic, metallic, and bioceramic-metallic coated stainless steel dental implants.

OBJECTIVES: The most common metals and alloys used in dentistry may be exposed to a process of corrosion in vivo that make them cytotoxic. The biocompatibility of dental alloys is primarily related to their corrosion behavior. The aim of this work was to evaluate the corrosion behavior and thus the biocompatibility of the uncoated and coated stainless steels and compare the effect of type of coatings on corrosion behavior. METHODS: Three types of coatings, hydroxyapatite (HA), titanium (Ti), and a double-layer HA/Ti on AISI 316L stainless steel were made. HA coating was produced using plasma-spraying technique and Ti coating was made using physical vapor deposition process. In order to perform a novel double-layer composite coating, a top layer of HA was plasma-sprayed over a physical vapor deposited Ti layer on AISI 316L stainless steel. Structural characterization techniques including XRD, SEM and EDX were used to investigate the microstructure, morphology and crystallinity of the coatings. Electrochemical potentiodynamic tests were performed in physiological solutions in order to determine and compare the corrosion behavior of the coated and uncoated specimens as an indication of biocompatibility. RESULTS: Double-layer HA/Ti coating on AISI 316L SS had a positive effect on improvement of corrosion behavior. The decrease in corrosion current densities was significant for these coated specimens and was much lower than the values obtained for uncoated and single HA coated specimens. Ti coating on AISI 316L SS also has a beneficial effect on corrosion behavior. The results were compared with the results of corrosion behavior of HA coated commercially pure titanium (cpTi) and uncoated cpTi. SIGNIFICANCE: These results demonstrated that the double-layer HA/Ti coated 316L SS can be used as an endodontic implant and two goals including improvement of corrosion resistance and bone osteointegration can be obtained simultaneously.

Biocompatible Materials↗

Transmission electron microscopic studies of deformed high-palladium dental alloys.

Objective. The purpose of this study was to employ transmission electron microscopy (TEM) to investigate the microstructures of Pd-Cu-Ga and Pd-Ga dental alloys that had been permanently deformed, in order to obtain information about the deformation behavior of individual phases and changes in microstructure brought about by that deformation.Methods. Heavily deformed regions taken from fractured tensile test bars of the two alloys in the as-cast condition were prepared for TEM analysis, using mechanical grinding and polishing, ion milling, and plasma cleaning. The specimens were examined in the TEM using bright-field and dark-field diffraction contrast imaging. Selected-area and convergent-beam electron diffraction patterns were employed to analyze the structures of the phases, and standardless energy-dispersive X-ray spectrometry was used to determine their mean compositions.Results. For both alloys, tweed structures underwent permanent deformation by twinning, whereas dislocation movement occurred in the face-centered cubic (fcc) palladium solid solution matrix. A body-centered cubic (bcc) phase, previously unreported in our TEM studies and containing a high density of dislocations, was identified in the Pd-Cu-Ga alloy, while fine-scale, stress-induced precipitates were found in some regions of the fcc matrix in the Pd-Ga alloy.Significance. The present results have provided novel information about the mechanical deformation behavior of high-palladium alloys. The stress-induced precipitation in the Pd-Ga dental alloy studied may be a critical component of strengthening mechanisms.

Chemical Phenomena↗