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Background: Current evidence appraisal concepts, such as the Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) approach and Cochrane’s Risk of Bias (RoB) tool, rely on assumptions related to the classic problem of inductive reasoning and may suffer from insufficient inter-rater reliability. Discussion: The Composite Quality Score (CQS) has emerged as a possible trial appraisal tool that does not rely on inductive assumptions and has been shown to be of potentially very high inter-rater reliability. Conclusion: Although the current CQS concept is still under development, its current evidence is encouraging and justifies further study. This article presents the rationale and currently available research concerning the CQS and shows where further research is required.

This study sought to evaluate the efficacy of SWEEPS in the removal of epoxy-resin-based and calcium-silicate-containing endodontic sealer combined with single-cone and carrier-based obturation techniques through a micro-CT analysis. Seventy-six single-rooted extracted human teeth with single root canal were instrumented with Reciproc instruments. Specimens were randomly divided into four groups (n = 19) according to the root canal filling material and obturation technique: (1) AH Plus sealer + Reciproc gutta-percha, (2) TotalFill BC sealer + TotalFill BC Points, (3) AH Plus sealer + Guttafusion obturator, and (4) MTA Fillapex + Guttafusion obturator. All specimens were re-treated one week later using Reciproc instruments. Following re-treatment, root canals were additionally irrigated using the Auto SWEEPS modality. The differences in the root canal filling remnants were analyzed by micro-CT scanning of each tooth after root canal obturation, after re-treatment, and after additional SWEEPS treatment. Statistical analysis was performed using an analysis of variance (p < 0.05). The additional treatment with SWEEPS significantly reduced the volume of the root canal filling materials in all experimental groups compared to the removal of root canal filling using only reciprocating instruments (p < 0.05). However, the root canal filling was not removed completely from any of the samples. SWEEPS can be used to enhance the removal of both epoxy-resin-based and calcium-silicate-containing sealers, in combination with single-cone and carrier-based obturation techniques.

Aim To establish the inter-rater reliability of the Composite Quality Score (CQS)-2 and to test the null hypothesis that it did not differ significantly from that of the first CQS version (CQS-1). Materials and methods Four independent raters from three countries were selected to rate 45 clinical trial reports using CQS-1 and CQS-2. The raters remained unaware of each other’s participation in this study until all rating had been completed. Each rater received only one rating template at a time in a random sequence for CQS-1 and CQS-2 rating. Raters completed each template and sent these back to the principal investigator. Each rater received their next template two weeks after submission of the completed previous template. The inter-rater reliabilities for the overall appraisal score of the CQS-1 and the CQS-2 were established by using the Brennan-Prediger coefficient (BPC). The coefficients of both CQS versions were compared by using the two-sample z-test. During secondary analysis, the BPCs for every criterion and each corroboration level for both CQS versions were established. Results The BPC for the CQS-1 was 0.85 (95% CI: 0.64–1.00) and for the CQS-2 it was 1.00 (95% CI: 0.94–1.00), suggesting a very high inter-rater reliability for both. The difference between the two CQS versions was statistically not significant (p = 0.17). The null hypothesis was accepted. Conclusion This study shows that the CQS-2 is associated with a very high inter-rater reliability, which did not statistically significantly differ from that of the CQS-1. The promising results of this study warrant further investigation in the applicability of the CQS-2 as an appraisal tool for prospective controlled clinical therapy trials.

Objective: To establish the CQS inter-rater reliability and rating time and to compare both against that of the Jadad scale and Cochrane's Risk of Bias Tool (ROBT). Material and methods: Four independent raters rated 45 trial reports. The inter-rater reliability was established by use of the Brennan- Prediger coefficient (BPC). The coefficients were compared using the two-sample z- test. Secondary analysis included comparison of the inter-rater reliability of the randomization component of all tools, as well as of the allocation concealment component of the CQS to that of the ROBT. The mean rating time with standard deviation (SD) for each tool was determined using one-way repeated measures analysis of variance. Post hoc comparisons were made using the Tukey-Kramer adjustment for three pair-wise multiple comparisons. Results: The inter-rater reliability was significantly higher for the CQS (BPC, 95% CI: 0.95, 0.87-1.00) compared to Jadad (0.70, 0.58- 0.82) (adjusted p = 0.0005) and most components of ROBT. The mean (SD) time to complete the CQS (4.0 (1.0) min) did not differ significantly from that of the Jadad scale 4.8 (1.1) min (adjusted p = 0.11), but was significantly shorter compared to that of the ROBT 15.3 (5.9) min (adjusted p < 0.0001). Conclusions: The results suggest the CQS to be a very reliable and fast trial appraisal tool. Clinical relevance The higher the inter-rater reliability, the higher the probability that trial results reflect therapeutic truth. The CQS will need to take further bias sources into consideration, in order to increase its utility.

Objectives: The aim of this study is to establish the inter-rater reliability of the CQS-2 and to test the null-hypotheses that it does not differ significantly from that of the first CQS version (CQS-1). Methods: Four independent raters will be selected to rate 45 clinical trial reports using CQS-1 and CQS-2. The raters will remain unaware regarding each other’s participation in this study until all rating is completed. Each rater will receive only one rating-template at a time in a random sequence for CQS-1 and CQS-2 rating. Raters will complete each template and send these back to the principal investigator via email. Each rater will receive her/his next template two weeks after submission of the completed previous template. The inter-rater reliabilities for the overall appraisal score of the CQS-1 and the CQS-2 will be established by use of the Brennan-Prediger coefficient. The coefficients of both CQS versions will be compared by use of the two-sample z-test. All data analysis will be carried out using SAS statistical software. A 5% significance level will be used. During secondary analysis, we will establish the inter-rater reliability for each single criterion and each corroboration level for both CQS versions.Reporting: The results of this study will be reported in line with the Guidelines for Reporting Reliability and Agreement Studies (GRAAS). The final report will be made available online as preprint in one of the major preprint repositories and submitted to a peer-reviewed journal.

Aim: to conduct a survey of current meta-epidemiological studies to identify additional trial designcharacteristics that may be associated with significant over/under estimation of the treatment effectand to use such identified characteristics as basis for the formulation of new CQS appraisal criteria.Materials and methods: We retrieved eligible studies from two systematic reviews on this topic(latest search May 2015) and searched the databases PubMed and Embase for further studies fromJune 2015 – March 2022). All data were extracted by one author and verified by another. Sufficientlyhomogeneous estimates from single studies were pooled using random-effects meta-analysis. Trialdesign characteristics associated with statistically significant estimates from single datasets (whichcould not be pooled) and meta-analyses were used as basis to formulate new or to amend existingCQS criteria.Results: A total of 38 meta-epidemiological studies were identified. From these, seven trial designcharacteristics associated with statistically significant over- or under estimation of the truetherapeutic effect were found.Conclusion: One new criterion concerning double blinding was added to the CQS and the originalcriteria for concealing the random allocation sequence and for minimum sample size amended.

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the usage of caries risk assessment (CRA) by Croatian general practitioners and evaluate their knowledge and attitudes towards CRA. Material and methods: A link to an online questionnaire was sent via e-mail to a sample of 1,500 general dentists in Croatia. The obtained data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, logistic regression analyses and chi-square tests. Results: Of 257 respondents, 47% performed CRA routinely, but only 4.5% of them used a specific CRA form. The significance of different actors in the development of a treat-ment plan varied considerably among respondents. Furthermore, in 77% of the respondents CRA was a basis for planning individual caries prevention (ICP). The association between CRA and ICP, and be-tween CRA and treatment planning was statistically significant (p=0.001). The practitioners doing CRA more often plan their treatment and ICP according to CRA. The use of CRA was not influenced by specialty and dentists’ experience. Conclusions: In a considerable percentage (53%) of Croatian general dentists, CRA is not part of their routine practice, and there is a strong association between the use of CRA and treatment plans and ICP. There is a need to promote the use of CRA in daily dental practice in Croatia.

Cilj: Obaviti narativni pregled predloženih preoperativnih protokola za ispiranje usne šupljine prije oralno-kirurških zahvata da bi se u aerosolu suzbila pojavnosti virusa SARS-CoV-2. Izvori: Pretražene su znanstvene baze podataka PubMed, MedLine, CINAHN i Scopus kako bi se pronašli relevantni radovi objavljeni do trećeg tjedna travnja 2020. godine. Ovo istraživanje dopunjeno je pretraživanjem putem internetske tražilice te ručnim pretraživanjem međunarodnih i nacionalnih smjernica. Odabir istraživanja: Uključena su istraživanja i protokoli u kojima se predlaže preoperativno ispiranje usta kao mjera tijekom pandemije virusa COVID-19. S obzirom na to da je dostupan mali broj istraživanja, obavljen je pregled narativne literature. Ukupno se 15 referencija (11 članaka i 4 smjernice) smatralo mjerodavnima i kritički je analizirano. Zaključak: Rezultati pokazuju visoku heterogenost u predloženim protokolima. Potrebna su daljnja istraživanja da bi se bolje razumjele značajke i epidemiološka obilježja novog virusa te da bi se ispitala učinkovitost uobičajenih antiseptika protiv virusa SARS-CoV-2 u budućim kliničkim ispitivanjima. No upotreba klorheksidina, vodikova peroksida, providon-jodida i cetilpiridinijeva klorida, sa svrhom prevencije širenja bolesti uzrokovane virusom COVID-19, u različitim je časopisima opisana kao poželjna., Objective: To provide a narrative review of the preprocedural mouth rinse protocols suggested for oral surgery in order to contrast the presence of SARS-CoV-2 in aerosol. Sources and Methods: Electronic searches were performed in medical databases PubMed, Medline, CINAHN and Scopus to identify relevant studies published up until the third week of April 2020. This research was supplemented by exploration through a web-based search engine as well as a manual search for international and national guidelines. Studies and protocols which suggested preoperative mouth rinsing as a recommended measure during the COVID-19 outbreak were included. Given the small number of studies, a narrative literature review was conducted. In total, 15 references (11 articles and 4 guidelines) were considered relevant and were critically analysed. Conclusion: The findings show a high heterogeneity in the protocols suggested. Further research is required to better understand the viral features and epidemiologic characteristics of this new virus and to test the efficacy of commonly used antiseptics against SARS-CoV-2 in future clinical trials. However, the use of chlorhexidine, hydrogen peroxide, PVP-I and cetylpyridinium chloride in contrasting the spread of Covid-19 is described as advisable and substantial in different publications.

Over the past few decades, adhesive dentistry has advanced significantly. In light of minimal-invasive dentistry, this novel technique advocates a more conservative cavity design that relies on the efficiency of present enamel-dentine adhesives. The study aimed to address the scientific deficit in understanding the long-term bonding performance of universal adhesives and to provide a new clinical solution with desirable bond strength to dentin. The dentin bond strength of three bonding agents, G2-Bond Universal (GC), Clearfil SE Bond (Kuraray), and Scotchbond Universal Plus (3M ESPE), was evaluated following various storage and etching modes. The UltraTester (Ultradent) bond strength testing machine was used to assess shear bond strength. The results showed that thermal cycling and the choice of adhesive system significantly affected the shear bond strength (p = 0.018 and p = 0.001, respectively). Among the three adhesives, Scotchbond Universal Plus had the lowest bond strength value (mean value = 24.78 MPa), while G2-Bond Universal was found to have desirable shear bond strength to dentin compared to the other adhesives, even after one year in the oral environment (mean value = 35.15 MPa). These findings imply that the HEMA-free universal adhesive G2-Bond Universal is the most effective universal adhesive for clinical practices, particularly when applied in the self-etch mode.

Este artículo se encuentra disponible en la siguiente URL: https://www.mdpi.com/1996-1944/14/21/6272 En este artículo de investigación también participan: Avijit Banerjee y Hervé Tassery. Este artículo de investigación pertenece al número especial "Bioactive Materials in Dentistry". The contemporary approach for operative caries management emphasizes personalized interventions for each patient, dependent upon the individual’s caries susceptibility/risk, the stage of the carious lesion and its activity. The clinician’s challenge is to optimize the extent of cavity preparation and the choice of dental restorative biomaterials, appreciating the benefits offered by ionreleasing restorative materials. There is a growing application of bioactive/bio-interactive materials in minimally invasive operative dentistry, as they may help with tissue recovery by ion release. In case of moderate or extensive occlusal cavitation, the clinical criteria include the individual caries susceptibility and carious lesion activity. In high caries risk cases, ion-releasing biomaterials (IRB) can be used, as well as for active carious lesions. In proximal lesions, the clinical criteria include the individual caries susceptibility, the lesion activity and presence of cavities with little or no enamel at the gingival margin. This article aims to discuss the restorative ion-releasing options, according to different clinical situations, and the caries susceptibility to manage cavitated carious lesions in permanent adult teeth.

This study aimed to determine the effects of three different varnish materials (containing casein phosphopeptide-amorphous calcium phosphate, nano-hydroxyapatite, and fluoride) on enamel. Thirty-three extracted human third molars were used for specimen preparation. These were demineralized using phosphoric acid. Three experimental groups (n = 11) were treated with 3M™ Clinpro™ White Varnish, MI Varnish®, and Megasonex® toothpaste, respectively, every twenty-four hours for fourteen days. Analysis of the microhardness of the specimens’ enamel surfaces was carried out via the Vickers method, and by scanning electron microscopy/energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM/EDS). Analysis was performed at three stages: at baseline value, after demineralization, and after the period of remineralization. Data were subjected to Scheffe’s post hoc test. The mean microhardness values (HV0.1) obtained for the group of samples treated with MI Varnish® were higher compared with the other two groups (p = 0.001 for both comparisons), while the first and third groups did not differ significantly from each other (p = 0.97). SEM analysis showed uneven patterns and porosities on all samples tested. EDS results showed an increase in the mineral content of the examined samples, with the highest mineral content observed in the MI Varnish® group. It can be concluded that MI Varnish® use has a better remineralization effect on enamel than the other two materials.

2Department of Endodontics and Restorative Dentistry, School of Dental Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia Correspondence Uzay Koc Vural, Department of Restorative Dentistry, Hacettepe University, School of Dentistry, 06100 Sıhhıye, Ankara, Turkey. Email: uzaykoc@gmail.com Review Editor: Mingying Yang | Ivana Miletic2 Abstract The purpose of this study was to evaluate the surface roughness, microhardness, color change, and translucency of a newly marketed universal nanohybrid composite resin (CR) (G- aenial A'CHORD) comparing with four contemporary universal CRs including two nanofilled (Filtek and Estelite Asteria) and two nanohybrid CRs (Charisma Dimond and Neo Spectra ST HV in vitro). Sixty-five specimens (8.0 mm 2.0 mm) were fabricated (n = 13, per group). After finishing and polishing, specimens were subjected to surface roughness and microhardness tests. Color and translucency of the specimens were evaluated at baseline and after darkening with coffee solution at day 1 and day 7. A representative specimen from each group was investigated under scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Data was analyzed statisti- cally (p < .05). There were significant differences among the groups in terms of sur- face roughness, microhardness, color, and translucency. The surface roughness was recorded as: Charisma Diamond > Neo Spectra ST HV, Filtek > Estelite Asteria, G- aenial A'CHORD, whereas Vickers Hardness number was as: Filtek, Charisma Diamond > Neo Spectra ST HV > G- aenial A'CHORD, Estelite Asteria. Color change was as: Charisma Diamond > Neo Spectra ST HV, Filtek, G-aenial A'CHO- RD > Estelite Asteria and the translucency was as: Neo Spectra ST HV > G-aenial A'CHORD, Filtek > Estelite Asteria, Charisma Diamond. SEM examinations revealed smooth surfaces for G-aenial A'CHORD, Neo Spectra ST HV and Estelite Asteria. Mechanical and optical properties of universal composite resins with different com- positions show variations.

Capture-based tuna aquaculture rates as one of the most important aquaculture activities in Cro-atia, where juvenile tuna are reared in cages for over a year long period in order to increase substan-tially their weight. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of length and intensity of feeding on biochemical composition (total fat, moisture, dry matter, carbohydrates and protein content) of tuna (Thunnus thynnus) white muscle tissues in newly caught tuna prior to feeding (NCTPF) versus far-med tuna kept in rearing circular cages in the Vela Grska Bay, Adriatic Sea (LAT 43°17’40,6984”N, LONG 016°28’58,4315”E (WGS84)) between 2001 and 2004. Farmed tunas from all cages were fed with the feed consisting of domestic small pelagic fish, or with mixtures containing North Sea herring (Clupea harengus) and Sardina pilchardus, for five months (cage 3), eight months (cage 4) or 21 months (cages 1 and 2). A low content of moisture and high content of dry matter including fat was observed in farmed tuna muscles compared to wild-caught tuna. In farmed tuna muscles, measured moisture was 55.26% in cage 1, 39.95% in cage 2, 54.64% in cage 3 and 49.70% in cage 4. These results are significantly lower than moisture measured in NCTPF (80.36%). Content of dry matter found in farmed tuna muscles also differed greatly between wild tuna (19.64%) and far-med tuna, but also between the cages (44.74% in cage 1, 60.05% in cage 2, 45.36% in cage 3 and 50.30% in cage 4). In NCTPF, muscle tissues total fat encompassed less than 1% of the total body weight, while it reached over 20% of total body mass in farmed fed tuna (20.62% in cage 1, 42.50% in cage 2, 20.97% in cage 3 and 20.57% in cage 4). These results demonstrate that high fat content can be achieved already after five months of intensive feeding. Higher content of proteins was also found in aquacultured tuna (18.60% in cage 1, 16.00% in cage 2, 15.09% in cage 3 and 20.58% in cage 4) compared to wild-caught tuna (13.77%). There were no differences in carbohydrates con-tent between tuna farmed in different cages and NCTPF tuna, indicating glycogen as a less optimal indicator of muscle tissue quality in farmed tuna of the present study., Kavezni uzgoj tune uhvaćene u divljini, tijekom razdoblja dužeg od jedne godine, sve dok tuna ne dobije znatno na težini, jedan je od najznačajnijih akvakulturnih aktivnost u Hrvatskoj. Cilj ovog rada je odrediti utjecaj intenziteta i duljine ishrane na biokemijski sastav bijelog mišićnog tkiva (uku-pni sadržaj masti, vode, suhe tvari, ugljikohidrata i proteina) tek ulovljene tune (Thunnus thynnus) prije tovljenja, u odnosu na tunu uzgajanu u kavezima kružnog oblika između 2001. i 2004. u uvali Vela Grška, koja se nalazi na južnoj obali otoka Brača u hrvatskom dijelu Jadranskog mora (LAT 43°17’40,6984”N, LONG 016°28’58,4315”E (WGS84)). Tuna uzgajana u sva četiri kaveza hranje-na je domaćom malom plavom ribom ili mješavinom haringe iz Sjevernog mora (Clupea harengus) i srdele (Sardina pilchardus), i to tijekom pet mjeseci (kavez 3), osam mjeseci (kavez 4) odnosno 21 mjesec (kavezi 1 i 2). Niski udjeli vode i visoki udjeli suhe tvari, uključujući masti, zabilježeni su u mišićnom tkivu uzgajane tune u odnosu na divlju tunu. U mišićnom tkivu kavezno uzgajane tune zabilježeno je 55.26% vode u kavezu 1, 39.95% u kavezu 2, 54.64% u kavezu 3 i 49.70% u kavezu 4, što su značajno niže vrijednosti od vrijednosti izmjerenih za divlju tunu (80.36%). Udio suhe tvari u mišićnom tkivu uzgajane tovljene tune značajno se razlikovao od udjela suhe tvari nađene u mišićnom tkivu divlje tune (19.64%), ali u mišićnom tkivu tuna uzgajanih u različitim kavezima (44.74% u kavezu 1, 60.05% u kavezu 2, 45.36% u kavezu 3 i 50.30% u kavezu 4). Ukupne masti u mišićnom tkivu čine manje od 1% ukupne težine tijela divlje tune, dok su te vrijednosti u tovljenih tuna: 20.62% u kavezu 1, 42.50% u kavezu 2, 20.97% u kavezu 3 i 20.57% u kavezu 4. Ovi rezultati upućuju na to da se visok sadržaj masti može postići već nakon pet mjeseci intenzivnog tovljenja tune. Visoke vrijednosti udjela proteina nađene su u mišićnom tkivu uzgajanih tuna (18.60% u kavezu 1, 16.00% u kavezu 2, 15.09% u kavezu 3 i 20.58% u kavezu 4) u usporedbi s mišićnim tkivom divlje tune (13.77%).Udio ugljikohidrata u mišićnom tkivu tuna nije se značajno razlikovao između tuna uzgajanih u različitim kavezima (0.83% u kavezu 1, 0.57% u kavezu 2.0 66% u kavezu 3 i 0.37 u kavezu 4), kao ni u usporedbi s mišićnim tkivom divljih tuna (0.31%). Kako ugljikohidrati potječu iz glikogena koji se brzo sintetizira i razgrađuje, sadržaj glikogena u mišićnom tkivu tune, manje je pogodan param-etar za ocjenu kvalitete mišićnog tkiva uzgajane ribe.

Objective: The objective of the study was to compare compressive strengths of two glass ionomerbased materials, with and without a light-cured, nano-filled coating, after cyclic loading and thermocycling. Materials and methods: To determine compressive strength of new restorative materials over a longer period of time, materials were analysed under simulated conditions where cyclic loading replicated masticatory loading and thermocycling simulated thermal oscillations in the oral cavity. Four groups of samples (n=7)—(1) Equia Fil (GC, Tokyo, Japan) uncoated; (2) Equia Fil coated with Equia Coat (GC, Tokyo, Japan); (3) Equia Forte Fil (GC, Tokyo, Japan) uncoated; and (4) Equia Forte Fil coated with Equia Forte coat (GC, Tokyo, Japan)—were subjected to cyclic loading (240,000 cycles) using a chewing simulator (MOD, Esetron Smart Robotechnologies, Ankara, Turkey). Results: Compressive strength measurements were performed according to ISO 9917-1:2007, using the universal mechanical testing machine (Instron, Lloyd, UK). Scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis was performed after thermocycling. There were no statistically significant differences between Equia Fil and Equia Forte Fil irrespective of the coating (p

To establish the CQS inter-rater reliability and rating time and to compare both against that of the Jadad scale and Cochrane's Risk of Bias Tool (ROBT).Four independent raters rated 45 trial reports. The inter-rater reliability was established by use of the Brennan-Prediger coefficient (BPC). The coefficients were compared using the two-sample z-test. Secondary analysis included comparison of the inter-rater reliability of the randomization component of all tools, as well as of the allocation concealment component of the CQS to that of the ROBT. The mean rating time with standard deviation (SD) for each tool was determined using one-way repeated measures analysis of variance. Post hoc comparisons were made using the Tukey-Kramer adjustment for three pair-wise multiple comparisons.The inter-rater reliability was significantly higher for the CQS (BPC, 95% CI: 0.95, 0.87-1.00) compared to Jadad (0.70, 0.58-0.82) (adjusted p = 0.0005) and most components of ROBT. The mean (SD) time to complete the CQS (4.0 (1.0) min) did not differ significantly from that of the Jadad scale 4.8 (1.1) min (adjusted p = 0.11), but was significantly shorter compared to that of the ROBT 15.3 (5.9) min (adjusted p 0.0001).The results suggest the CQS to be a very reliable and fast trial appraisal tool. Clinical relevance The higher the inter-rater reliability, the higher the probability that trial results reflect therapeutic truth. The CQS will need to take further bias sources into consideration, in order to increase its utility.

This ex vivo study aimed to compare the microtensile bond strength of fiber-reinforced and particulate filler composite to coronal and pulp chamber floor dentin using a self-etching adhesive system. Coronal dentin of 40 human molar teeth was exposed by cutting occlusal enamel with a low-speed saw. Teeth were then randomly divided into two groups (n = 20). The first group was left as is, while in the second group, pulp chamber floor dentin was exposed by trepanation. After placement of a self-etching adhesive system (G-aenial Bond, GC, Tokyo, Japan), groups were further divided into two sub-groups (n = 10) according to the type of composite: fiber-reinforced composite (EP, everX Posterior, GC, Tokyo, Japan) and particulate filler composite (GP, G-aenial Posterior, GC, Tokyo, Japan). Then, composite blocks were built up. Sticks (1.0 × 1.0 mm2) were obtained from each specimen by sectioning, then microtensile bond strength (μTBS) test was performed. Statistical analysis included one-way ANOVA test and Student’s t-test (p &lt, 0.05). μTBS values were 22.91 ± 14.66 and 24.44 ± 13.72 MPa on coronal dentin, 14.00 ± 5.83 and 12.10 ± 8.89 MPa on pulp chamber floor dentin for EP and GP, respectively. Coronal dentin yielded significantly higher μTBS than pulp chamber floor dentin (p &lt, 0.05), independently from the tested composites.

The purpose of the study was to determine the wear rate of Equia Forte HT Fil with Equia Forte Coat or without coating and compare it with Fuji IX GP high-viscosity glass ionomer cement (GIC) in conditions with acid load or at neutral pH. The samples were stored for 7 days: (1) in artificial saliva, (2) in artificial saliva and cyclically exposed to low pH, and (3) in distilled water and cyclically exposed to low pH. Wear was determined by measuring the difference in mass before and after brushing in an abrasion testing device. The wear of Fuji IX GP was significantly higher than that of Equia Forte HT Fil with or without coating (p = 0.000). The difference between Equia Forte HT Fil with and without Coat was not statistically significant (p &lt, 0.803). The differences in wear resistance between samples stored in saliva and in distilled water were not significant (p = 0.588). Periodic exposure to the low pH solution significantly affected the wear resistance of all materials (p = 0.000). Equia Forte HT Fil was more resistant to wear than Fuji IX GP in all storage conditions. A resinous coat did not significantly increase wear resistance.

Objectives: We assessed the cost-effectiveness of two amalgam alternatives, glass hybrid (GH) and composite (CO) in a multi-country randomized controlled split-mouth trial. Materials: University clinics in Croatia, Serbia, Italy and Turkey participated. Pairs of GH (EQUIA Forte, GC) and a nano-hybrid CO (TetricEvoCeram, IvoclarVivadent) were randomly placed in occlusal-proximal two-surfaced cavities in permanent molars of adults (n = 180/360 patients/molars). We used 3-years interim data for this evaluation. FDI-2 criteria were applied and teeth requiring repair, re-restoration, endodontic treatment or extraction recorded. Our outcome was the time until any or major complications (requiring endodontic treatment or extraction) occurred. Costs were calculated in US Dollar (USD) 2018, with the local currencies being converted using Purchasing Power Parities. To estimate initial and re-treatment costs, a payers’ perspective was taken and direct medical costs estimated from fee item catalogues. Incremental-cost-effectiveness ratios (ICER) were used to express the cost difference per gained or lost effectiveness. Results: Overall costs were lower for GH than CO in Croatia, Turkey and Serbia, while this difference was minimal in Italy. GH tended to survive longer than CO in Croatia and Italy, and shorter in Serbia and Turkey; overall survival time was not significantly different (p = 0.67/log-rank). The cost-effectiveness differences indicated CO to be more expensive at limited (ICER: 268.5 USD/month without any complications) or no benefit at all (-186.2 USD/month without major complications). Conclusions: GH was less costly than CO both initially and over 3 years. Efficacy differences were extremely limited. Clinical significance: Given their low initial costs and as efficacy between GH and CO did not differ significantly, GH had a high chance of being more cost-effective within this specific trial. © 2021 The Author(s), Sveu?ilište u Zagrebu GC Europe, This original study was supported by a grant from the University of Zagreb (2015 and 2017) . We thank GC Europe for providing the materials free of charge. Design, conduct, and reporting of this study was fully independent., This original study was supported by a grant from the University of Zagreb (2015 and 2017). We thank GC Europe for providing the materials free of charge. Design, conduct, and reporting of this study was fully independent.

Made available in DSpace on 2021-06-26T04:31:05Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2021-04-01 Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo (FAPESP) Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico (CNPq) Objective: The aim of this paper is to present the results of a consensus meeting on the threshold property requirements for the clinical use of conventional glass-ionomer cements (GICs) for restorative indications. Methods: Twenty-one experts on GICs evaluated the results of tests on mechanical and optical properties of 18 different brands of restorative GICs: Bioglass R [B], Chemfil Rock [CR], Equia Forte [EF], Gold Label 2 [GL2], Gold Label 9 [GL9], Glass Ionomer Cement II [GI], Ionglass [IG], Ion Z [IZ], Ionomaster [IM], Ionofil Plus [IP], Ionostar Plus [IS], Ketac Molar Easymix [KM], Magic Glass [MG], Maxxion R [MA], Riva Self Cure [R], Vidrion R [V], Vitro Fil [VF] and Vitro Molar [VM]. All experiments were carried out by a team of researchers from Brazil and England following strict protocols, under the same laboratory conditions throughout, and maintaining data integrity. Results: There was consensus on: determining as primary properties of the material: compressive strength, microhardness, acid erosion and fluoride release, and as secondary properties: contrast ratio and translucency parameter, in order to rank the materials. Seven brands were below the thresholds for restorative indications: IZ, IM, IG, MA, VF, B and MG. Conclusions: Based on the primary properties adopted as being essential for restorative indications, the conventional restorative GICs that met the thresholds and could be considered suitable as long-term restorative materials were: EF, GI, GL9, KM, IP, GL2, IS, CR, V, VM and R. A decision-making process to select the best GIC must also include results from clinical trials. Clinical significance: This study provides a ranking of GICs that could be considered suitable as long-term restorative materials based on their main properties. Univ Sao Paulo, Dept Restorat Dent, Bauru Sch Dent, Alameda Dr Octavio Pinheiro Brisolla 9-75, BR-17012901 Bauru, SP, Brazil Univ Estadual Maringa, Dept Restorat Dent, Av Colombo 5790 Jd, BR-87020900 Maringa, Parana, Brazil Univ Fed Uberlandia, Dept Restorat Dent, Av Joao Naves Avila 2121, BR-38408100 Uberlandia, MG, Brazil Univ Sao Paulo, Sch Dent, Dept Orthodont & Pediat Dent, Av Prof Lineu Prestes 2227, BR-05508000 Butanta, SP, Brazil State Univ Sao Paulo, Inst Sci & Technol, Av Engn Francisco Jose Longo 777, BR-1224500 Sao Jose Dos Campos, Brazil Univ Catolica Cordoba, Obispo Trejo 323,X5000 IYG, Cordoba, Argentina Univ Western Australia, OHCWA, 512,17 Monash Ave, Nedlands, WA 6009, Australia Univ Zagreb, Sch Dent Med, Gunduliceva Ul 5, Zagreb 10000, Croatia Radboud Univ Nijmegen, Med Ctr, Dept Dent, Philips van Leydenlaan 25, NL-6525 EX Nijmegen, Netherlands Univ Estadual Campinas, Piracicaba Dent Sch, Av Limeira 901, BR-13414903 Piracicaba, Brazil Univ British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada Hacettepe Univ, Dept Restorat Dent, TR-06800 Ankara, Turkey Univ Brasilia, BR-70910900 Brasilia, DF, Brazil Karadeniz Tek Univ, TR-61080 Trabzon, Turkey State Univ Sao Paulo, Aracatuba Sch Dent, Rua Jose Bonifacio 1193, BR-16015050 Aracatuba, Brazil Bluefield Ctr Biomat, Unit 34, 67-68 Hatton Garden, London EC1N 8JY, England Queen Mary Univ London, Mile End Rd, London E1 4NS, England State Univ Sao Paulo, Inst Sci & Technol, Av Engn Francisco Jose Longo 777, BR-1224500 Sao Jose Dos Campos, Brazil State Univ Sao Paulo, Aracatuba Sch Dent, Rua Jose Bonifacio 1193, BR-16015050 Aracatuba, Brazil FAPESP: 2018/01616-9 CNPq: 312060/2017-3

The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of reciprocating instruments in the removal of bioceramic and epoxy resin-based sealers using micro-CT analysis. Root canals of 40 extracted human teeth were instrumented with a size R25 Reciproc instrument. Specimens were randomly divided into two groups (n = 20) according to the root canal filling material. In the first group, root canals were obturated with AH Plus sealer and Reciproc R25 gutta-percha. In the second group, a combination of bioceramic gutta-percha (TotalFill BC) and bioceramic sealer (TotalFill BC) was used. After one week, the retreatment of all specimens was performed using Reciproc instruments. To analyze the differences in the filling remnants, specimens were scanned in a micro-CT device after obturation and after the retreatment procedure. Statistical analysis was performed using the Mann–Whitney U test (p &lt, 0.05). A combination of bioceramic sealer and bioceramic gutta-percha was more effectively removed from canals using a reciprocating instrument, with a filling remnants volume of 4.01 ± 3.13 mm3, in comparison to the combination of epoxy resin-based sealer and gutta-percha (6.96 ± 2.70 mm3) (p &lt, 0.05). A reciprocating instrument was more effective in removing bioceramic sealers than epoxy resin-based sealers, although none of the root canal filling materials were completely removed from the root canals.

Acidic drinks are known to exert negative effects on surface properties of dental restorative materials. However, the effect of increasingly popular green smoothie drinks has not been addressed so far. The present study investigated the effect of cyclic immersions (5 min daily over 30 days) in a green smoothie drink on the surface properties of contemporary dental restorative materials, including resin composites, an alkasite, and a glass ionomer. Continuous immersion in distilled water was used as a negative control. Vickers microhardness, surface roughness, and perceptible color change in the CIE L* a* b* color space were evaluated as clinically relevant properties of the material surface. Statistically significant effects of green smoothie drink were identified for all surface properties, resulting in material-dependent changes in microhardness, as well as significantly higher surface roughness and higher color change compared to the negative control. After 30-day green smoothie immersion, microhardness values either decreased for 8–28% (for resin composites) or increased for up to 91% (for glass ionomer). The increase in surface roughness (Ra parameter) of smoothie-immersed specimens was 7–26 times higher compared to the control group. The perceptible color change (Δ E) in the smoothie group was 3–8 times higher compared to the control group. The Δ E values of the smoothie-immersed specimens ranged from 3.2 to 14.2, indicating visually notable color differences. Overall, this study demonstrated that daily exposure of dental restorations to a green smoothie drink can significantly accelerate material degradation, which is reflected as surface softening, as well as higher roughness and higher perceptible color change.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of the incorporation of hydroxyapatite (HA) derived from cuttlefish bone on the mechanical properties of glass ionomer cements (GIC). Fuji II LC and Fuji IX GP Extra (GC Corporation, Tokyo, Japan) were used in the study. There were four groups (n = 11&ndash, 18) for each material: a group without the addition of HA particles and three groups modified by incorporation of 2, 5, and 10 wt% HA. The tests were performed on a universal testing machine (Shimadzu, Duisburg, Germany) and descriptive statistics, two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) for the comparison of three mechanical properties, and one-way ANOVA for the comparison of different concentrations for each material were performed. Regarding the Fuji IX groups, compressive strength (CS) and flexural strength (FS) were highest in the group without HA particles added. The differences in CS between the Fuji IX group without HA particles and the Fuji IX groups with 2 wt% HA and 10 wt% HA were significant. The Fuji II 5 wt% HA group exhibited higher diametral tensile strength (DTS) and CS than other Fuji II groups, but not significantly. The Fuji II group, modified with 10 wt% HA, exhibited significantly higher FS than the Fuji II group without HA particles (p &lt, 0.05). Porous HA incorporated into the Fuji IX groups had a significant impact on mechanical properties only in the Fuji IX 5 wt% HA group. Fuji II groups modified with 10 wt% HA showed the most favorable results with respect to FS.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of the incorporation of hydroxyapatite (HA) derived from cuttlefish bone on the mechanical properties of glass ionomer cements (GIC). Fuji II LC and Fuji IX GP Extra (GC Corporation, Tokyo, Japan) were used in the study. There were four groups (n = 11–18) for each material: a group without the addition of HA particles and three groups modified by incorporation of 2, 5, and 10 wt% HA. The tests were performed on a universal testing machine (Shimadzu, Duisburg, Germany) and descriptive statistics, two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) for the comparison of three mechanical properties, and one-way ANOVA for the comparison of different concentrations for each material were performed. Regarding the Fuji IX groups, compressive strength (CS) and flexural strength (FS) were highest in the group without HA particles added. The differences in CS between the Fuji IX group without HA particles and the Fuji IX groups with 2 wt% HA and 10 wt% HA were significant. The Fuji II 5 wt% HA group exhibited higher diametral tensile strength (DTS) and CS than other Fuji II groups, but not significantly. The Fuji II group, modified with 10 wt% HA, exhibited significantly higher FS than the Fuji II group without HA particles (p < 0.05). Porous HA incorporated into the Fuji IX groups had a significant impact on mechanical properties only in the Fuji IX 5 wt% HA group. Fuji II groups modified with 10 wt% HA showed the most favorable results with respect to FS.

The aim of this paper is to provide an overview of bluefin tuna, with special regard to its farming challenges. Tuna is one of the most prominent species in fisheries worldwide. The high market value of tuna stocks has led to intensified fishing pressure that resulted in drastic population reductions in every ocean where these fish are found. It is very difficult to obtain the necessary data for the appropriate stock assessment analysis, and there is a very high degree of uncertainty in the models used to evaluate Atlantic bluefin tuna stocks. Tuna-farming could help reduce pressure on the tuna population, but the problem is that the majority of cage-farmed fish is caught in its natural environment (wild population), and thus is fattened or farmed to a certain size. Additionally, the challenges in tuna farming are numerous. Tuna is a fast swimmer, a large energy and oxygen consumer, therefore consuming a large portion of available food to maintain its metabolism. However, due to its delicious taste, high market price and a large demand for this species, pressure will probably continue to grow in the future. Therefore intensive farming, which implies the full breeding cycle in captivity, remains one of the possible solutions that could help reduce the pressure on the tuna population.

Cilj ovog rada je pružiti uvid u osobitosti atlantske plavoperajne tune s posebnim naglaskom na izazove njenog uzgoja. Visoka cijena tune dovela je do intenzifikacije ribolovnog pritiska na zalihe tune, što je rezultiralo značajnim smanjenjem populacije u svim oceanima koje tuna nastanjuje. Vrlo je teško prikupiti potrebne podatke za prikladnu analizu procjene stokova i stupanj nepouzdanosti modela koji se koriste za procjenu stokova plavoperajne tune je vrlo visok. Uzgajanje tuna možda bi moglo pomoći u smanjenu pritiska na populaciju tuna, no problem jest što se većina uzgajane ribe hvata iz prirodnog okoliša (divlja populacija) i tovi se do određene veličine. Osim toga postoje i brojni drugi izazovi uzgoja. Tuna je brz plivač i veliki potrošač energije i kisika, te troši velike količine hrane na održavanje metabolizma. No zbog njenog izvrsnog okusa, visoke tržišne cijene i velike potražnje, pritisak na ovu vrstu će najvjerojatnije i daje rasti. Stoga njen u potpunosti intenzivan uzgoj, koji uključuje zaokruženi ciklus razmnožavnja u zatočeništvu, ostaje jedno od mogućih riješenja koji bi mogli smanjiti pritisak na populaciju tune., The aim of this paper is to provide an overview of bluefin tuna, with special regard to its farming challenges. Tuna is one of the most prominent species in fisheries worldwide. The high market value of tuna stocks has led to intensified fishing pressure that resulted in drastic population reductions in every ocean where these fish are found. It is very difficult to obtain the necessary data for the appropriate stock assessment analysis, and there is a very high degree of uncertainty in the models used to evaluate Atlantic bluefin tuna stocks. Tuna-farming could help reduce pressure on the tuna population, but the problem is that the majority of cage-farmed fish is caught in its natural environment (wild population), and thus is fattened or farmed to a certain size. Additionally, the challenges in tuna farming are numerous. Tuna is a fast swimmer, a large energy and oxygen consumer, therefore consuming a large portion of available food to maintain its metabolism. However, due to its delicious taste, high market price and a large demand for this species, pressure will probably continue to grow in the future. Therefore intensive farming, which implies the full breeding cycle in captivity, remains one of the possible solutions that could help reduce the pressure on the tuna population.

The aim of the study was to evaluate the effects of incorporation of Al2O3, ZrO2 and TiO2 nanoparticles into glass&ndash, ionomer cements (GICs). Two different GICs were used in the study. Four groups were prepared for each material: the control group (without nanoparticles) and three groups modified by the incorporation of nanoparticles at 2, 5 or 10 wt %, respectively. Cements were mixed and placed in moulds (4 mm &times, 6 mm), after setting, the samples were stored in saline (one day and one week). Compressive strengths were measured and the morphology of the fractured surfaces was analyzed by scanning electron microscopy. The elements released into the storage solutions were determined by Inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES). Addition of nanoparticles was found to alter the appearance of cements as examined by scanning electron microscopy. Compressive strength increased with the addition of ZrO2 and especially TiO2 nanoparticles, whereas the addition of Al2O3 nanoparticles generally weakened the cements. The ion release profile of the modified cements was the same in all cases. The addition of Al2O3, ZrO2 and TiO2 nanoparticles into GICs is beneficial, since it leads to reduction of the microscopic voids in the set cement. Of these, the use of ZrO2 and TiO2 nanoparticles also led to increased compressive strength. Nanoparticles did not release detectable levels of ions (Al, Zr or Ti), which makes them suitable for clinical use.

Objective: This in vitro study compares the fluoride release from microlaminated glass ionomer based on glass hybrid technology coated with two different surface coating agents. Materials and Methods: A total of 18 samples were divided into three groups of six samples each: (1) glass ionomer Equia Forte Fil coated with Equia Forte Coat (Equia+EC), (2) glass ionomer Equia Forte Fil coated with GC Fuji Varnish (Equia+VC) and (3) uncoated glass ionomer Equia Forte (EQUIA cont). Fluoride release was measured using an ion-selective electrode (ORION EA 940) after 24 hours, 4 days, 30 days and 64 days. Repeated measures ANOVA, multiple comparisons, Tukey’s test and paired t-test were used to test the differences between the groups. Results: The differences between the groups and four time points were statistically significant (ANOVA, p