Search Results (22)

Aim: The aim of this study was to comparatively evaluate the shear bond strengths between different calcium silicate-based biomaterials and glass ionomer-based restorative materials. Materials and Methods: In this in vitro study, a total of 96 acrylic blocks were prepared, each containing a standardized cylindrical cavity measuring 4 mm in diameter and 2 mm in depth. Four different calcium silicate-based biomaterials (ProRoot MTA, Biodentine, TheraCal LC, and MTA BioRep) were placed into the cavities according to the manufacturers’ instructions. Three different glass ionomer restorative materials (Fuji II LC, Equia Forte HT, and Riva Self Cure) were then applied onto the biomaterial surfaces using molds measuring 2 mm in diameter and 2 mm in height, resulting in 12 experimental groups (n = 8). After storage at 37 °C for 24 h, the shear bond strengths were measured using a universal testing machine. The data were analyzed using the Kruskal–Wallis and Mann–Whitney U tests with Bonferroni correction (p < 0.05). Results: The highest bond strength was observed in the TheraCal LC–Fuji II LC combination, whereas the lowest value was obtained in the MTA BioRep–Equia Forte HT group. Both the type of biomaterial and type of glass ionomer cement had a statistically significant effect on the bond strength (p < 0.05). Conclusions: The combination of calcium silicate-based biomaterial and glass ionomer-based restorative material influenced the early shear bond strength. These findings suggest that material selection may play an important role in early bonding behavior at the biomaterial–restorative material interface. Full article

Purpose: The present study evaluates the cytocompatibility of chitosan (CS)-modified glass ionomer cement (GIC) diluents for a Balb/c 3T3 fibroblast cell line. Methods: Three different commercially available hand-mix GIC materials were used in this experiment: Fuji IX GP, Ketac Universal, and Riva Self Cure. The diluents for cell viability tests were produced from DMEM exposed to sterile CS-modified glass ionomer material specimens for three different time periods (0–1, 1–7, and 7–21 days). The resultant diluents were exposed to a 3T3 fibroblast cell line using the indirect contact technique in 96-well plates. In order to assess the physical cell response, five material specimens (1 mm high and 3 mm in diameter) of each material (n = 45) were produced and 3T3 cells were seeded on the specimens. SEM evaluation of the cells was conducted. Results: All the Ketac Universal materials resulted in a decrease in cell viability on day 1. Fuji IX and the CS-modified GICs are the most consistent regarding cell viability. None of the CS-modified GICs exhibited improved cumulative cell biocompatibility. Conclusion: Two materials—Riva Self Cure modified with 5% and 10% CS—retained a decreased cell viability at day 21 compared to the viability of 3T3 cells exposed to the control DMEM. Full article

Background/Objectives: Adhesion to caries-affected dentin remains challenging due to its altered structure and composition. Remineralizing agents have been proposed to strengthen this substrate and improve bonding. This study evaluated the effect of three remineralization treatments, CPP-ACP, self-assembling peptide P11-4, and silver diamine fluoride (SDF), on the microtensile bond strength (μTBS) of universal adhesive systems applied to caries-affected dentin, using both etch-and-rinse and self-etch strategies. Methods: Seventy human molars were sectioned and artificially demineralized to simulate caries-affected dentin. Samples were divided into ten groups: four untreated and six treated with CPP-ACP (MI Paste™), P11-4 (Curodont™ Protect), or SDF (Riva Star™). Universal adhesives were applied via etch-and-rinse or self-etch mode, followed by composite restoration. Microtensile bond strength was measured using a universal testing machine, and results were statistically analyzed with ANOVA and t-tests (p < 0.05). Results: Untreated caries-affected dentin showed significantly lower μTBS than sound dentin (C3: 18.3 ± 5.4 MPa vs. C1: 41.3 ± 2.7 MPa). Remineralization agents improved μTBS considerably. CPP-ACP achieved the highest recovery (S1: 31.8 ± 2.6 MPa; S2: 29.2 ± 4.6 MPa), nearing sound dentin levels. P11-4 yielded moderate gains (S3: 24.4 ± 6.5 MPa; S4: 24.1 ± 4.7 MPa), while SDF provided the lowest, yet significant, improvements (S5: 23.7 ± 7.5 MPa; S6: 21.3 ± 5.3 MPa). Etch-and-rinse generally produced higher μTBS than self-etch, but differences were not statistically significant (p > 0.05). Conclusions: Pre-treatment of caries-affected dentin with CPP-ACP, P11-4, or SDF enhances universal adhesive bond strength, with CPP-ACP showing the most pronounced effect. Remineralization protocols represent a valuable adjunct in restorative procedures involving compromised dentin. Full article

Background: The treatment of cavitated lesions has evolved with minimally invasive dentistry (MID), whereby we can leave demineralized enamel that could potentially be remineralizable with the use of materials such as resin-modified glass ionomer cements (RMGICs) that allow these lesions to be repaired and remineralized while removing less tooth tissue. The aim of our study was to compare the influence of aging on adhesion to sound enamel, demineralized enamel, and the healthy dentin of five RMGICs (Vitremer^®, ACTIVA BioACTIVE Restorative, Riva LC, Ionolux^®, and GC Fuji II LC) and fluoride release. There are currently no studies on adhesion in demineralized enamel. Method: A total of 1035 bovine incisors were analyzed in 45 groups of 23 teeth each. The groups were established based on three factors: time (24 h, 1 month, and 3 months); substrate (sound enamel, demineralized enamel, and healthy dentin); and type of material. In each group, 20 samples underwent shear bond strength (SBS) and fracture type analysis. Adhesive interfaces were observed in three samples from each group using field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM). Daily and cumulative fluoride release rates were calculated. Results: Adhesion improved over time on both demineralized and sound enamel. ACTIVA BioACTIVE Restorative had the highest SBS values (33.63 ± 10.69 MPa), and Vitremer^® had the lowest (4.10 ± 4.63). Most fractures were adhesive. Vitremer^® and Ionolux^® showed the highest daily and cumulative fluoride release rates (Vitremer daily (24 h): 225.30 ± 26.28 ppm/g; Vitremer cumulative (30 days): 635.99 ± 305.38 ppm/g; Ionolux daily (24 h): 207.59 ± 48.43 ppm/g; Ionolux cumulative (30 days): 501.21 ± 138.71 ppm/g) and ACTIVA BioACTIVE Restorative showed the lowest (ACTIVA daily (24 h): 10.50 ± 0.85; ACTIVA cumulative (30 days): 39.10 ± 2.16). Conclusions: ACTIVA BioACTIVE Restorative was the material with the best adhesion values on all substrates and at all times, but it showed the lowest fluoride release rates. Full article

Background: Dental caries is a prevalent dental problem affecting primary and permanent teeth. Early demineralization of enamel lesions can be reversed through remineralization. Many studies have focused on caries prevention and disease progression arrest using silver diamine fluoride (SDF). No in vitro studies have compared the remineralization effects of different 38% SDF solutions on artificially demineralized enamel lesions. This study aimed to compare the remineralization potential of three commercial 38% silver diamine fluoride formulations on artificial enamel lesions in primary teeth using a pH cycling model. The hypothesis was as follows: different commercial SDF formulations would exhibit varying remineralization effects, as measured by surface microhardness, due to potential differences in their compositions. Materials and Methods: In this study, 75 primary molars were randomized into five groups (N = 15): I: baseline, II: SDF Riva Star Aqua^® 38%, III: Riva Star^® 38%, IV: SDF Advantage Arrest^® 38%, and V: control. Artificial caries were created by submerging teeth in 10 mL of demineralization solution (pH 4.5) for three days in a light-resistant container, ensuring distinct visual changes in the enamel as per the International Caries Detection and Assessment System (ICDAS level 2). After pH cycling, all samples underwent a standardized Vickers microhardness test (VMHT) with a 50 g load for 15 s. Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA and Tukey’s post hoc test, with a significance level set at p ≤ 0.05. Results: The one-way ANOVA test indicated a significant difference in microhardness among the groups (SDF Riva Star Aqua, SDF Riva Star, and SDF Advantage Arrest), with an F-value of 167.73 and p < 0.001. The post hoc Scheffé test showed that SDF Riva Star Aqua and SDF Riva Star were not significantly different (p = 0.388). However, SDF Advantage Arrest had a significantly higher mean microhardness compared to both groups (p < 0.001). Overall, these results show that SDF Advantage Arrest leads to greater microhardness than SDF Riva Star Aqua or SDF Riva Star. Conclusions: SDF Advantage Arrest showed superior performance among the SDF-treated groups, significantly increasing microhardness compared to SDF Riva Star Aqua and SDF Riva Star. This suggests that SDF Advantage Arrest offers enhanced remineralization and structural strengthening, making it the most effective option for managing demineralized primary teeth. Future research should investigate the long-term performance and mechanisms of these treatments to optimize clinical protocols for preserving primary tooth integrity. Full article

Objectives: Dental caries remains a prevalent issue in pediatric dentistry, necessitating restorative materials that not only repair decay but also provide protective benefits. Fluoride-releasing restorative materials have a key function in preventing recurrent caries by inhibiting bacterial activity and promoting remineralization. The objective of this study was to examine fluoride release from three pediatric dental restorative materials—Riva Light Cure HV, Fuji IX GP Fast, and the Cention Forte Filling Material—under different pH and temperature conditions. Methods: Specimens (10 mm diameter and 2 mm thickness; n = 3 for each material) were prepared according to the manufacturers’ instructions; immersed in buffer solutions at pH 4.8, 6.8, and 8.8; and stored at 37 °C and 44 °C. Fluoride release was quantified using ion chromatography at three time points (1 day, 7 days, and 28 days). Results: The data revealed that fluoride release was significantly influenced by pH, temperature, and time (p < 0.05). Riva Light Cure HV exhibited the highest release, particularly in acidic conditions (pH 4.8), reaching 40.14 mg/L at 44 °C after 28 days. The Cention Forte Filling Material and Fuji IX GP Fast also showed increased release over time, but with lower cumulative concentrations. Higher temperatures generally enhanced fluoride diffusion across all materials. Conclusions: These findings emphasize the pivotal impact of environmental factors in fluoride release dynamics. Riva Light Cure HV demonstrated superior fluoride release, particularly in acidic environments, suggesting its potential for high-caries-risk pediatric patients. These insights can inform the selection of restorative materials in pediatric dentistry, optimizing caries prevention strategies. Full article

Aim: To compare caregiver satisfaction and children’s acceptance of silver fluoride/potassium iodide (AgF + KI) treatment (Riva Star Aqua^®, SDI Limited, Victoria, Australia) and glass-ionomer cement (GIC) application (Ionostar Plus + Easy Glaze, VOCO, Germany) in reducing hypersensitivity in permanent molars affected by molar incisor hypomineralisation (MIH) with the MIH treatment need index (MIH-TNI) 3 and 4 immediately after its application and after 12 weeks. Materials and Methods: This prospective, comparative, clinical study recruited schoolchildren with at least one hypersensitive MIH molar with a Schiff cold air sensitivity score (SCASS) of 2 and 3. Caregivers in both groups (AgF + KI and GIC + glaze) answered a questionnaire (5-Point Likert Scale) regarding the perception of the treatment immediately (15 min post application) and in the 12 weeks follow-up. Children’s behaviour during both applications was assessed using FBRS (Frankl Behaviour Rating Scale). Results: A total number of 47 children (n = 22 for AgF/KI and n = 25 for GIC) with a mean age of 8.6 ± 1.42 were recruited. A high proportion of the children in both arms (n = 40 out of 44; 90.1%) reported a reduction in hypersensitivity in the last 12 weeks. On average, children (n = 39; FBRS ≥ 3) in both groups showed positive behaviour, with a significantly more definitely positive behaviour in the GIC group (p < 0.05, independent student t-test). Caregiver satisfaction with both study procedures was high after immediate assessment (n = 19 out of 22, 86.4% for AgF/KI and n = 19 out of 25, 76.0% for GIC application) and in 12 weeks of follow-up (n = 17 out of 20, 85.0% for AgF/KI and n = 22 out of 24, 91.6% for GIC application). However, the taste AgF/KI is more frequently considered not acceptable for the child (n = 10; 45%) than smell (n = 2; 9%). Interestingly, there was a statistically significant difference in caregivers’ preference toward alternative desensitisation treatment (tooth restoration coverage, desensitisation paste, stainless steel crown and fluoride varnish) in both treatment groups (p < 0.05, Mann–Whitney U test). Conclusions: Both GIC and AgF/KI applications can be considered acceptable approaches to reduce hypersensitivity in permanent molars affected by MIH both immediately and in long-term follow-up for schoolchildren based on caregivers’ assessments. Full article

Aim: The study aimed to compare the depth of cure, hardness, surface roughness, and wear resistance of four restorative materials used in pediatric dentistry: FUJI IX GP FAST, RivaSilver, SDR flow+, and Vertise Flow. Materials and Methods: The depth of cure was measured per ISO 4049 standards using a digital caliper, with 15 samples of each material. Hardness was evaluated using a Vickers indenter under a 10 N load for 20 s. Surface roughness was assessed before and after acid exposure using an optical profilometer according to ISO 4288. Brushing wear resistance was analyzed by subjecting samples to 20 and 60 min of brushing, followed by roughness measurements. Statistical analysis was performed using independent sample t-tests to determine the significance of differences between the materials, with p-values < 0.05 considered significant. Results: SDR flow+ exhibited the highest depth of cure with an average of 3.5 mm (±0.2 mm), significantly higher than Vertise Flow at 2.8 mm (±0.3 mm) (p < 0.001). Hardness testing revealed SDR flow+ had the highest average hardness (85 HV ± 4 HV), while Vertise Flow had the lowest (72 HV ± 5 HV) (p < 0.001). Surface roughness increased significantly after acid exposure for RivaSilver (from 1.2 μm ± 0.12 μm to 1.6 μm ± 0.15 μm, p = 0.007) and for SDR flow+ (from 0.85 μm ± 0.08 μm to 1.3 μm ± 0.14 μm, p = 0.001). Brushing wear resistance was highest in RivaSilver (Ra increase from 1.2 μm to 1.4 μm ± 0.11 μm) and lowest in FUJI IX GP FAST (Ra increase from 1.5 μm to 1.9 μm ± 0.15 μm, p < 0.001). Conclusions: The study demonstrates significant differences in performance among the tested materials. SDR flow+ showed a superior depth of cure and hardness, making it suitable for high-stress applications. However, all materials displayed increased surface roughness following acid exposure and brushing, with FUJI IX GP FAST showing the highest wear. These findings highlight the need to select restorative materials based on the specific clinical demands of pediatric patients, considering both their mechanical properties and resistance to wear and acid. Full article

Objectives: The aim of this study is to assess the micro-tensile bond strength and the mode of failure of a bioactive hybrid self-adhesive composite (Surefil one) under various dentin conditions. Methods: Thirty-two extracted human molar teeth were used to test the micro-tensile bond strength of Surefil one under different dentine conditions (no treatment, 37% phosphoric acid etching, and universal adhesive) in comparison with a resin-modified glass ionomer (RIVA). All restorations were light cure-bonded onto flat dentine and then sectioned into beams. Then, fractured specimens were observed under a light microscope to evaluate the mode of failure. Results: The Surefil one no-treatment group (NTG) exhibited the highest micro-tensile bond strength. Furthermore, there was no statistically significant difference observed between the Surefil one adhesive group (EAG) and the Surefil one acid etch group (EG). However, compared to other groups, the resin-modified glass ionomer (RIVA) produced the lowest results, which are statistically significant. Conclusion: Surefil one offers superior bond strength values when compared to resin-modified glass ionomers. Furthermore, Surefil one requires no dentin condition and has more straightforward clinical steps. Full article

Introduction: Prognosis after electrical storm (ES) ablation remains severe, especially in patients with recurrent sustained monomorphic ventricular tachycardia (SMVT) or progressive heart failure (HF). However, single-factor-based prediction is suboptimal and may be refined by more complex algorithms. We sought to evaluate if a novel score MSA-VT (M = moderate/severe mitral regurgitation, S = severe HF at admission, A = atrial fibrillation at admission, VT = inducible SMVT after ablation) may improve prediction of death and recurrences compared to single factors and previous scores (PAINESD, RIVA and I-VT). Methods: A total of 101 consecutive ES ablation patients were retrospectively analyzed over a 32.8-month (IQR 10-68) interval. The MSA-VT score was calculated as the sum of the previously mentioned factors’ coefficients based on hazard ratio values in Cox regression analysis. The AUC for death prediction by MSA-VT was 0.84 (p < 0.001), superior to PAINESD (AUC 0.63, p = 0.03), RIVA (AUC 0.69, p = 0.02) and I-VT (0.56, p = 0.3). MSA-VT ≥ 3 was associated with significantly higher mortality during follow-up (52.7%, p < 0.001). Conclusions: Prediction by single factors and previously published scores after ES ablation may be improved by the novel MSA-VT score; however, this requires further external validation in larger samples. Full article

Background and Objectives: This prospective, comparative, double-cohort study aimed to compare the efficacy of silver diamine fluoride and potassium iodide (38% SDF+KI; Riva Star^®) with sodium fluoride varnish (5% NaF; Duraphat^®) in hypersensitive carious lesions in primary teeth to evaluate caries arrest and hypersensitivity relief. Materials and Methods: This study included thirty 2–5-year-olds (mean age = 3.67 ± 1.06 years; 16 males and 14 females) who required a desensitizing treatment for hypersensitive carious defects with visible dentin. A total of 15 of the participants were consecutively allocated to treatment with 5% NaF, and they were further compared to an equal number of participants treated with 38% SDF+KI solutions (n = 15). The treatments were performed following clinical evaluation of caries activity using the International Caries Classification and Management System (ICCMS^TM) and the Bjørndal criteria (score of 0–9). Parental-reported hypersensitivity was evaluated using a visual analogue scale (0–10 = no to severe pain). Results: Clinical variables were evaluated at baseline and three months after treatment. Thereafter, a significant decline in hypersensitivity/pain led to lower final scores in the Riva Star^® group (0.40 ± 1.12, p = 0.002) than in the Duraphat^® group (1.40 ± 2.20, p = 0.004). The caries arrest effect was significantly higher in the Riva Star^® group (86.7%) compared to the Duraphat^® group three months after treatment (13.3%, p < 0.001). In both groups, there were no statistically significant differences in the children’s behavior before, during, and after treatment. Conclusions: Ultimately, with both fluoride therapies reducing hypersensitivity/pain significantly, treatment with 38% SDF+KI was clearly more effective in caries arrest than 5% NaF varnish after a 3-month period. Full article

Background: Smart devices that are able to measure blood pressure (BP) are valuable for hypertension or heart failure management using digital technology. Data regarding their diagnostic accuracy in comparison to standard noninvasive measurement in accordance to Riva-Rocci are sparse. This study compared a wearable watch-type oscillometric BP monitor (Omron HeartGuide), a wearable watch-type infrared BP monitor (Smart Wear), a conventional ambulatory BP monitor, and auscultatory sphygmomanometry. Methods: Therefore, 159 consecutive patients (84 male, 75 female, mean age 64.33 ± 16.14 years) performed observed single measurements with the smart device compared to auscultatory sphygmomanometry (n = 109) or multiple measurements during 24 h compared to a conventional ambulatory BP monitor on the upper arm (n = 50). The two BP monitoring devices were simultaneously worn on the same arm throughout the monitoring period. In a subgroup of 50 patients, single measurements were also performed with an additional infrared smart device. Results: The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) between the difference and the mean of the oscillometric Omron HeartGuide and the conventional method for the single measurement was calculated for both systole (0.765) and diastole (0.732). This is exactly how the ICC was calculated for the individual mean values calculated over the 24 h long-term measurement of the individual patients for both systole (0.880) and diastole (0.829). The ICC between the infrared device and the conventional method was “bad” for SBP (0.329) and DBP (0.025). Therefore, no further long-term measurements were performed with the infrared device. Conclusion: The Omron HeartGuide device provided comparable BP values to the standard devices for single and long-term measurements. The infrared smart device failed to acquire valid measurement data. Full article

The dynamically changing world poses new challenges to urbanized areas, e.g., related to water management in the architectural and urban context. Improving retention and strengthening blue-green infrastructure can be based on technical, semi-natural and natural methods, which are less invasive. Various forms are used in the city space: flow control, detention, retention, filtration, infiltration, and treatment. The implementation of the green order strategy and shaping sustainable development in the context of designing the city’s resilience is associated with shaping spatial policy and urban planning assumptions for the transformation of public spaces and new investments in urbanized areas in crisis. The shaping of waterfronts in the city and green and blue infrastructure significantly shape the parameters of the environment and the regenerative capacity of the urban ecosystem. The aim of this work was to show the relationship between the problem of embankments and the possibilities of developing space in their proximity, including areas exposed to the risk of flooding. The relationships determined by the goal were verified in comparative studies, a repeatable method of collecting, processing, analyzing, and interpreting the obtained data was used. The issue was presented in a broader context of flood risk and water management in the area of Lake Zegrze, collisions and spatial conflicts were analyzed. The results are presented in the context of detailed water management data for the complex of Riva Zegrze facilities, which is a model example regarding the sustainable development of areas on embankments, considering their specific floodplain development possibilities. The effects of the research allowed for the formulation of conclusions, including in terms of implementation, in the field of urban and architectural design for areas associated with an embankment. Full article

Background: The aim of the study was to assess the protective effect of applying potassium iodide (KI) over silver diamine fluoride (SDF) on demineralized root dentin in the case of a sustained acidogenic attack. Methods: Forty caries-free third molars were used in the study. A diamond disc was used to separate the roots and the tooth crowns from the roots. Each root fragment was randomly distributed in one of the four study groups: C—samples were not demineralized; DD—demineralized samples; RS1—demineralized samples covered with SDF+KI (RS-Riva Star product, SDI limited, Bayswater, Australia); RS2—demineralized samples covered with SDF+KI and submersed to another acidic challenge for 3 days. SEM and EDX were used for the morphological and elemental analysis. Vickers hardness assessment was performed using a tribometer CETR UMT-2 (Bruker Corporation, Berlin, Germany). One-way ANOVA and post hoc Bonferroni tests were used for the statistical analysis with a significance level of p < 0.05. Results: Morphological and elemental changes were observed on the surface of the study samples. Significant differences were observed between the recorded hardness values of groups C and DD (p = 0.005), C and RS2 (p = 0.002), DD and RS1 (p = 0.011); RS1 and RS2 (p = 0.004). Conclusions: The application of SDF and KI (Riva Star product) on root dentin caries resulted in the formation of a heterogeneous outer layer that sealed the dentin and increased the microhardness of the treated surface. In the conditions of the present study, this layer did not provide enough protection for root dentin exposed to continuous attacks. Full article

Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate the adaptation of a resin-modified glass ionomer to the internal walls of dentin with different conditioning systems, with or without the application of silver diamine fluoride (SDF) and potassium iodide (KI). Methods: Cervical standardized cavities were prepared on the buccal and lingual sides of 15 extracted molars. Molars were then sectioned longitudinally in a buccolingual direction, obtaining two samples from each tooth with two cavities each (60 samples). Samples were randomly divided into three groups (n = 20). Each group was divided into two subgroups. One subgroup did not receive dentin conditioning, one was conditioned with 25% polyacrylic acid—10 s (PA), and one with 37% orthophosphoric acid—5 s (OPA). In the other subgroup, dentine was treated with SDF/KI and not conditioned or conditioned with PA or OPA. All cavities were filled with Riva Light Cure^® (RLC). The adaptation of the RLC to the cavity walls was evaluated by SEM at 100× magnification. The area of maximum interfacial gap was magnified at 1000× to measure its size. Kruskal–Wallis and Mann–Whitney U test were used for comparison. A significance level of α = 0.05 was used. Results: No significant differences in the percentage of well-adapted samples were found in subgroups when SDF/KI was used, regardless of whether conditioner was used or not and whether PA or OPA was used (p > 0.05). Regardless of the gap size, dentin treatment with SDF/KI did not negatively influence ionomer adaptation to dentin walls significantly (p > 0.05), except for the subgroup conditioned with OPA (p < 0.05). Furthermore, it improved the adaptation in the axial wall of the subgroup without dentin conditioning (p < 0.05). Conclusion: According to the results of the present in vitro study, the use of SDF/KI did not affect RLC adaptation to the cavity walls. Subsequent use of a conditioner worsens the adaptation of the material to the cavity walls. Full article