Build-up Materials Research Articles

Adhesion of cast metal alloy and lithium disilicate copings luted to different core build-up materials with self-adhesive resin cement

This study evaluated the shear bond strength of two coping materials (non-nickel chrome-based cast alloy and lithium disilicate ceramic (IPS Empress) to four different core foundation materials (resin composite, cast metal alloy, lithium disilicate, and dentin), luted with adhesive resin cement (RelyX Unicem). Specimens (N = 56) were fabricated and divided into eight groups (n = 7 per group). Each coping material was luted with self-adhesive resin cement (RelyX Unicem) to the core materials. Bond strength was measured in a Universal Testing Machine (0.5 mm/min). Data were statistically analyzed using a two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey’s HSD tests (alpha = 0.05). Both core (p = 0.000) and coping material type (p = 0.000) significantly affected the mean bond strength (MPa) values. Interaction terms were also significant (p = 0.001). The highest bond strength results were obtained when lithium disilicate was bonded to lithium disilicate (21.48) with the resin cement tested. Lithium disilicate in general presented the highest bond results when bonded to all core materials tested (16.55–21.38) except dentin (3.56). Both cast alloy (2.9) and lithium disilicate (3.56) presented the lowest bond results on dentin followed by cast-alloy-cast alloy combination (3.82).

The effect of surface grooves on film breakdowns in point contacts

Surface roughness plays an important role in transition from full to mixed elastohydrodynamic regime. One kind of features appearing on a real rough surface are grooves longer than contact diameter. It has already been reported that these grooves cause a local film reduction or a complete collapse. In this study, a ball-on-disc optical tribometer was used to quantitatively study the effect of grooves on film thickness in a point contact. It was observed that the main dependence on speed, the so-called lift-off curve, generally follows the logarithm function. The effects of build-up material, load, slide/roll ratio and groove geometry are presented. These results were fitted to the analytical description, which enables the estimation of groove effects on point contact lubrication.

Enabling laser applications in microelectronics manufacturing

In this experimental study, we report on high-pulse-energy excimer laser drilling into high-performance build-up films which are pivotal in microelectronics manufacturing. Build-up materials ABF-GX13 from Ajinomoto as well as ZS-100 from Zeon Corporation are evaluated with respect to their viability for economic excimer laser-based micro-via formation. Excimer laser mask imaging projection at laser wavelengths of 193, 248 and 308 nm is employed to generate matrices of smaller micro-vias with different diameters and via pitches. High drilling quality is achievable for all excimer laser wavelengths with the fastest ablation rates measured in the case of 248 and 308 nm wavelengths. The presence of glass fillers in build-up films as in the ABF-GX13 material poses some limitations to the minimum achievable via diameter. However, surprisingly good drilling results are obtainable as long as the filler dimensions are well below the diameter of the micro-vias. Sidewall angles of vias are controllable by adjusting the laser energy density and pulse number. In this work, the structuring capabilities of excimer lasers in build-up films as to taper angle variations, attainable via diameters, edge-stop behavior and ablation rates will be elucidated.

Direct reconstruction of the source intensity distribution of a clinical linear accelerator using a maximum likelihood expectation maximization algorithm

Direct determination of the source intensity distribution of clinical linear accelerators is still a challenging problem for small field beam modeling. Current techniques most often involve special equipment and are difficult to implement in the clinic. In this work we present a maximum-likelihood expectation-maximization (MLEM) approach to the source reconstruction problem utilizing small fields and a simple experimental set-up. The MLEM algorithm iteratively ray-traces photons from the source plane to the exit plane and extracts corrections based on photon fluence profile measurements. The photon fluence profiles were determined by dose profile film measurements in air using a high density thin foil as build-up material and an appropriate point spread function (PSF). The effect of other beam parameters and scatter sources was minimized by using the smallest field size ( cm2). The source occlusion effect was reproduced by estimating the position of the collimating jaws during this process. The method was first benchmarked against simulations for a range of typical accelerator source sizes. The sources were reconstructed with an accuracy better than 0.12 mm in the full width at half maximum (FWHM) to the respective electron sources incident on the target. The estimated jaw positions agreed within 0.2 mm with the expected values. The reconstruction technique was also tested against measurements on a Varian Novalis Tx linear accelerator and compared to a previously commissioned Monte Carlo model. The reconstructed FWHM of the source agreed within 0.03 mm and 0.11 mm to the commissioned electron source in the crossplane and inplane orientations respectively. The impact of the jaw positioning, experimental and PSF uncertainties on the reconstructed source distribution was evaluated with the former presenting the dominant effect.

A resin composite material containing an eugenol derivative for intracanal post cementation and core build-up restoration

ObjectivesTo formulate and evaluate new dual cured resin composite based on the inclusion of eugenyl methacrylate monomer (EgMA) with Bis-GMA/TEGDMA resin systems for intracanal post cementation and core build-up restoration of endodontically treated teeth. MethodsEgMA was synthesized and incorporated at 5% (BTEg5) or 10% (BTEg10) into dual-cure formulations. Curing properties, viscosity, Tg, radiopacity, static and dynamic mechanical properties of the composites were determined and compared with Clearfil™DC Core-Plus, a commercial dual-cure, two-component composite. Statistical analysis of the data was performed with ANOVA and the Tukey's post-hoc test. ResultsThe experimental composites were successfully prepared, which exhibited excellent curing depths of 4.9, 4.7 and 4.2mm for BTEg0, BTEg5 and BTEg10 respectively, which were significantly higher than Clearfil™DC. However, the inclusion of EgMA initially led to a lower degree of cure, which increased when measured at 24h with values comparable to formulations without EgMA, indicating post-curing. The inclusion of EgMA also lowered the polymerization exotherm thereby reducing the potential of thermal damage to host tissue. Both thermal and viscoelastic analyses confirmed the ability of the monomer to reduce the stiffness of the composites by forming a branched network. The compressive strength of BTEg5 was significantly higher than the control whilst flexural strength increased significantly from 95.9 to 114.8MPa (BTEg5) and 121.9MPa (BTEg10). Radiopacity of the composites was equivalent to ∼3mm Al allowing efficient diagnosis. SignificanceThe incorporation of EgMA within polymerizable formulations provides a novel approach to prepare reinforced resin composite material for intracanal post cementation and core build-up and the potential to impart antibacterial properties of eugenol to endodontic restorations.

Salvaging the Mutilated Internally Resorbed and Perforated Maxillary Incisor-One Year Six Months Follow-Up.

A 28-year-old male patient reported with the chief complaint of hollowing and discoloration of upper front teeth. The teeth were traumatized 10-12 years back [Table/Fig-1a]. Patient had undergone root canal treatment of 21 seven years back. Root canal of 12 was accessed elsewhere two days before the patient reported to the Department of Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics at Hitkarini Dental College and Hospital, Jabalpur, India. [Table/Fig-1a,b]: (a) Pre-operative picture showing hollowed and discoloured 11 and discoloured 21 and pre-operative IOPA radiograph revealed Internal resorption in 11, iatrogenic lateral perforation in 12, incomplete obturation in 21. On intraoral examination, there was a draining sinus, in relation to carious 11. Periodontal examination revealed a clinical probing depth of 5 mm in relation to 11, measured with Naber’s probe. Intraoral periapical radiograph revealed internal resorption in 11, iatrogenic lateral perforation with 12, incomplete obturation of 21[Table/Fig-1a]. Endodontic treatment of 11, 12 and re-treatment of 21 followed by flap debridement along with placement of MTA and PRF at the perforation site was planned. First phase included Tooth 11: After complete removal of infected dentin and irrigation with sodium hypochlorite. Working length was radiographically determined. Intracanal calcium hydroxide paste was placed and access cavity was sealed with Cavit temporary filling material. On recall examination next week, the sinus opening disappeared. The calcium hydroxide was flushed out and canal was irrigated with normal saline. After drying the canal with paper points, sectional obturation was performed using 60 (2%) master cone by vertical compaction with appropriate sized hand plugger, using AH-Plus sealer. After sectional obturation a fiber post was cemented with a core buildup material [Table/Fig-1b]. Tooth 12: Pulp was extirpated after modification of access cavity. The canal was cleaned and shaped. Tooth was obturated with gutta percha using lateral compaction method [Table/Fig-1b]. Tooth 21: Complete removal of gutta purcha was done using rotary re-treatment files and H file. After cleaning and shaping, ortho grade obturation was done with 70 (2%) master cone with lateral compaction [Table/Fig-1b]. Patient was recalled for 2nd phase of treatment. Full thickness mucoperiosteal flap was reflected extending from middle of the canine region of 1st quadrant to distal of lateral incisor of 2nd quadrant. The perforation site was exposed [Table/Fig-2a, 2b]. [Table/Fig-2a,f]: (a),(b) Mucoperiosteal flap raised and perforation site exposed. All the granulation tissue was curetted. The surgical field was cleaned, dried and MTA was placed at the site of perforation [Table/Fig-2c]. Intravenous blood was collected and PRF was prepared in a centrifugation machine [Table/Fig-2d]. After which PRF was placed on the surgical field [Table/Fig-2e]. The mucoperiosteal flap was repositioned and simple interrupted sutures were given using absorbable vicryl suture. Post-operative care was explained to the patient, with instructions to report back after a week for checkup [Table/Fig-2f]. After one month, fixed crowns were placed. Follow-up recall demonstrated satisfactory healing [Table/Fig-3b-3e,3g,3h]. Periodontal examination revealed reduction in clinical probing depth of 5 mm to 3 mm in relation to 11, measured with Naber’s probe. [Table/Fig-3a,f]: Preoperative IOPA radiograph and picture, recall IOPA radiograph and picture b) one month, c) six months, d), g)one year demonstrating 3mm probing depth, e), h)one year six months.

Evaluation of occlusal fracture resistance of three different core materials using the Nayyar core technique.

Aim:The aim and purpose of this study was to determine the occlusal fracture resistance of three core buildup materials using the Nayyar technique.Materials and Methods:Thirty human extracted maxillary premolars were used for the study. The test samples were decoronated till the cementoenamel junction (CEJ) and proper cleaning and shaping was done with protaper niti files till the F3. Corresponding f3 protaper(Dentysply)gutta pecha cones were selected and obturated. The gutta-percha was removed till the depth of 4 mm from the coronal orifice with Gates Glidden (GG) drills for all the samples; then the samples were randomly divided into three different groups. Group I was restored with universal composite Z350XT, group II was restored with light curable glass ionomer cement (GIC), and group III was restored with miracle mix. The coronal buildup was done using compound supported matrix. The fracture resistance strength of all the specimen groups was tested under a universal testing machine.Results:The data of the study were statistically analyzed by one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Bonferroni's comparison test. Results of the study showed that group I that was restored with the universal composite Z350XT showed much higher fracture resistance strength compared to the other two groups. Statistically significant difference was noted between group I and group II and also between group I and group III.Conclusion:It can be concluded that the core buildup done with composite offered better occlusal fracture resistance strength compared to light curable GIC and miracle mix.

The effect of sodium hypochlorite and resin cement systems on push-out bond strength of cemented fiber posts.

Objective:This study investigated the effect of different endodontic irrigant solutions and resin cement systems on the bond strength of cemented fiber posts.Methods:Sixty human single-rooted anterior teeth were sectioned transversely at 2 mm incisal to the cemento-enamel junction (CEJ). The roots were treated endodontically, and teeth were distributed into six groups: group A, includes 5.25%NaOCl irrigant with MultiCore Flow Core Build-Up material; group B, includes 5.25%NaOCl irrigant with RelyX-Unicem Self-Adhesive Universal Resin Cement; group C, includes 2.5% NaOCl irrigant with MultiCore Flow; group D, includes 2.5%NaOCl irrigant with RelyX-Unicem; group E, includes NaCl, irrigant with MultiCore Flow; and group F, includes NaCl irrigant with RelyX-Unicem. Universal tapered fiber posts (No. 3 RelyX Fiber Post) were cemented, and roots were sectioned into cervical and apical segments. Samples were then subjected to a push-out bond strength test and failure modes were examined.Results:The mean push-out bond strength for group D showed the highest mean value (20.07 MPa), while the lowest value was found in group A. There was a significant difference between groups with regard to the irrigants used (p<0.001), however, no significant difference was found between groups with regard to resin systems (p>0.05). The total mean push-out bond strength of the cervical segments was found to be significantly higher than the apical segments (p<0.001).Conclusion:The irrigant solution have a clear influence on the push-out bond strength of the fiber posts regardless of the cement used. Both adhesive resin systems showed similar bonding strength.

Build-up material requirements in clinical dosimetry during total body irradiation treatments.

Total body irradiation (TBI) treatments are mainly used in a preparative regimen for hematopoietic stem cell (or bone marrow) transplantation. Our standard clinical regimen is a 12 Gy/6 fraction bi-daily technique using 6MV X-rays at a large extended source to surface distance (SSD). This work investigates and quantifies the dose build-up characteristics and thus the requirements for bolus used for in vivo dosimetry for TBI applications. Percentage dose build-up characteristics of photon beams have been investigated at large extended SSDs using ionization chambers and Gafchromic film. Open field measurements at different field sizes and with differing scatter conditions such as the introduction of standard Perspex scattering plates at different distances to the measurement point were made in an effort to determine the required bolus/build-up material required for accurate determination of applied dose. Percentage surface dose values measured for open fields at 300 cm SSD were found to range from 20% up to 65.5% for fields 5 cm × 5 cm to 40 cm × 40 cm, respectively. With the introduction of 1 cm Perspex scattering plates used in TBI treatments, the surface dose values increased up to 83–90% (93–97% at 1 mm depth), depending on the position of the Perspex scattering plate compared to the measurement point. Our work showed that at least 5 mm water equivalent bolus/scatter material should be placed over the EBT3 film for accurate dose assessment for TBI treatments. Results also show that a small but measurable decrease in measured dose occurred with 5 mm water equivalent thick bolus material of areas '3 cm2. As such, we recommend that 3 cm × 3 cm × 5 mm bolus build-up is the smallest size that should be placed over EBT3 Gafchromic film when used for accurate in vivo dosimetry for TBI applications.

Are self-adhesive resin cements suitable as core build-up materials? Analyses of maximum load capability, margin integrity, and physical properties.

The aim of the present study was to test a self-adhesive resin cement used as core build-up material in comparison to two commercially available core build-up materials. Forty human anterior teeth were endodontically treated and fiber post insertion (RelyX Fiber posts) and core build-ups were performed using two core build-up materials applied with an etch-and-rinse adhesive approach (Luxacore Dual-LC and Clearfil Core-CC) and an experimental self-adhesive resin cement (SAR) in two application modes (SAR Handmix and SAR Automix). Samples were subjected to thermo-mechanical loading. Margin integrity was determined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and maximum load capability (Fmax) was evaluated. Physical properties of the tested materials were also examined. Fmax was significantly affected by the core build-up material (p < 0.0005; one-way ANOVA). CC [481 (158) N] revealed significantly higher Fmax compared to LC [226 (80) N], SAR Hand [205 (115), and SAR Automix [197 (134) N] (p < 0.05; Tukey-B). The percentage of margin quality "continuous margin" in enamel after thermo-mechanical loading (TML) differed significantly among groups (p < 0.0005; Kruskal-Wallis); CC demonstrated a significantly higher percentage of margin quality "continuous margin" compared to the other groups. Physical properties were significantly affected by the different core materials (p < 0.0005; ANOVA); CC and LC demonstrated significantly higher flexural strength compared to both SAR groups as well as significantly higher water sorption of both SAR groups compared to CC and LC. Within the limitations of the present in vitro study, we conclude that the investigated experimental self-adhesive resin cement is not suitable as a core build-up material due to the lower maximum load capability, low margin quality, and the data of the mechanical properties. The investigated experimental self-adhesive resin cement cannot be recommended as a core build-up material.

Large Scale Photodesmear for Via Residue Cleaning in High Density Interconnect substrates

Smear residue from the build-up dielectric material is left at the bottom of the microvia after laser drill process which, if not cleaned, poses risk to the electrical functionality of the device. Thus, microvia cleanliness is the key to a reliable and electrically functional device. Currently, industry employs a wet process to clean the etch residue that results in significant chemical waste. Here, we evaluated an alternative, but effective Photodesmear method that provides a low cost of ownership and almost negligible environmental impact. We have demonstrated in IMAPS 2013 that this process can achieve residue- and silica filler free via bottoms by a two-step process: i) illuminating 172 nm vacuum ultraviolet light (VUV) on the panels, resulting in a photochemical ashing, and ii) a water clean. This process does not reduce the surface energy of the build-up material, thus not impacting the downstream processes. The main technical challenge in developing Photodesmear technology will be panel level uniformity in cleaning all the microvias within the same process step. We have demonstrated that our process can achieve a highly uniform treatment over 510 mm wide panels. The process was optimized to clean microvias with a range of aspect ratios on insulating film (material N) drilled by CO2 laser. The microvia bottoms were also found to be clean when the vias were drilled by UV laser to test the desmear capability. The quality of the Photodesmear was tested by measuring the peel strength between electrolytically plated Cu and dielectric surface, and by performing the quick via pull (QVP) to verify the failing interface. We found high peel strength of 0.7 kgf/cm when sputtered Cu seed layer was used. QVP experiments confirmed that the via residue is cleaned effectively since the interface between the plated Cu and the underlying Cu pad did not fail. This study shows that Photodesmear process is capable to produce clean vias along with acceptable peel strength. Future issues are to research the reliability, productivity, and cost of the Photodesmear process to compare with the existing process.

Repair bond strength of dual-cured resin composite core buildup materials

The reparability of dual-cured resin composite core buildup materials using a light-cured one following one week or three months storage, prior to repair was evaluated. Two different dual-cured resin composites; Cosmecore™ DC automix and Clearfil™ DC automix core buildup materials and a light-cured nanofilled resin composite; Filtek™ Z350 XT were used. Substrate specimens were prepared (n=12/each substrate material) and stored in artificial saliva at 37°C either for one week or three months. Afterward, all specimens were ground flat, etched using Scotchbond™ phosphoric acid etchant and received Single Bond Universal adhesive system according to the manufacturers’ instructions. The light-cured nanofilled resin composite (Filtek™ Z350 XT) was used as a repair material buildup. To determine the cohesive strength of each solid substrate material, additional specimens from each core material (n=12) were prepared and stored for the same periods. Five sticks (0.8±0.01mm2) were obtained from each specimen (30 sticks/group) for microtensile bond strength (μTBS) testing. Modes of failure were also determined. Two-way ANOVA revealed a significant effect for the core materials but not for the storage periods or their interaction. After one week, dual-cured resin composite core buildup materials (Cosmecore™ DC and Clearfil™ DC) achieved significantly higher repair μTBS than the light-cured nanofilled resin composite (Filtek™ Z350 XT). However, Clearfil™ DC revealed the highest value, then Cosmecore™ DC and Filtek™ Z350 XT, following storage for 3-month. Repair strength values recovered 64–86% of the cohesive strengths of solid substrate materials. The predominant mode of failure was the mixed type. Dual-cured resin composite core buildup materials revealed acceptable repair bond strength values even after 3-month storage.

Why, when, and how general practitioners restore endodontically treated teeth: a representative survey in Germany.

The purpose of this study was to assess current opinions, applied techniques, and materials for the restoration of endodontically treated teeth (ETT) in a nationwide survey in Germany. Completed questionnaires from 1,648 dentists were returned (response rate 63%). In general, posts were reported to be used more frequently (51%) for indirect restorations than for direct restorations (21%). Dentists restored anterior teeth (65%) more frequently with direct restorations than posterior teeth (48%). Compared to an earlier survey, fewer dentists stated that posttreatment stabilizes the remaining tooth structure. The ferrule effect as a key success factor was held by the vast majority of dentists (88%). A trend towards adhesive techniques both for post placement and core build-up was observed. Composite resins (49%) were reported to be used twice as much as zinc phosphate cement (24%) for the luting of posts; composite resins were the core build-up material of choice (75%). Amalgam was rarely used (0.2%). Irrespective of the final restoration, fiber posts were the most popular post material (46% for telescopic crowns vs. 69% for single crowns). Adhesive composite core build-ups with and without fiber posts were the predominant treatment approach to restore ETT in Germany. There was widespread agreement with the ferrule effect as a key restorative success factor for indirect restorations. Today, it is general accepted that ferrule preparation is key. Glass-fiber posts appear to be most popular. Still different systems are used depending on type of final restoration, while the reasons to do so remain unclear.

Establishment of 6- to 7-MeV high-energy gamma-ray calibration fields produced using the 4-MV Van de Graaff accelerator at the Facility of Radiation Standards, Japan Atomic Energy Agency.

A 6- to 7-MeV high-energy gamma-ray field, produced by the nuclear reaction of (19)F(p, αγ)(16)O, has been established at the Facility of Radiation Standards (FRS) in Japan Atomic Energy Agency for calibration purposes. Basic dosimetric quantities (i.e. averaged gamma-ray energy, air-kerma-to-dose equivalent conversion coefficients and air kerma rates at the point of test) have been precisely determined through a series of measurements using the NaI(Tl) spectrometer and an ionisation chamber coupled with an appropriate build-up material. The measurements obtained comply with values recommended by the International Organization for Standardization for an 'R-F field'. The neutron contamination component for the field has also been measured by means of a conventional neutron dose equivalent meter (the so-called neutron rem-counter) and determined to be ∼ 0.5 % of the total dose equivalent.

Feasibility study of a dual detector configuration concept for simultaneous megavoltage imaging and dose verification in radiotherapy

To test the feasibility of a dual detector concept for comprehensive verification of external beam radiotherapy. Specifically, the authors test the hypothesis that a portal imaging device coupled to a 2D dosimeter provides a system capable of simultaneous imaging and dose verification, and that the presence of each device does not significantly detract from the performance of the other. The dual detector configuration comprised of a standard radiotherapy electronic portal imaging device (EPID) positioned directly on top of an ionization-chamber array (ICA) with 2 cm solid water buildup material (between EPID and ICA) and 5 cm solid backscatter material. The dose response characteristics of the ICA and the imaging performance of the EPID in the dual detector configuration were compared to the performance in their respective reference clinical configurations. The reference clinical configurations were 6 cm solid water buildup material, an ICA, and 5 cm solid water backscatter material as the reference dosimetry configuration, and an EPID with no additional buildup or solid backscatter material as the reference imaging configuration. The dose response of the ICA was evaluated by measuring the detector's response with respect to off-axis position, field size, and transit object thickness. Clinical dosimetry performance was evaluated by measuring a range of clinical intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) beams in transit and nontransit geometries. The imaging performance of the EPID was evaluated quantitatively by measuring the contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) and spatial resolution. Images of an anthropomorphic phantom were also used for qualitative assessment. The measured off-axis and field size response with the ICA in both transit and nontransit geometries for both dual detector configuration and reference dosimetry configuration agreed to within 1%. Transit dose response as a function of object thickness agreed to within 0.5%. All IMRT test patterns and clinical IMRT beams had gamma pass rates of ≥98% at 2%/2 mm criteria. In terms of imaging performance, the measured CNR and spatial resolution (f50) were 263.23 ± 24.85 and 0.4025 ± 1.25 × 10(-3) for dual detector configuration and 324 ± 26.65 and 0.4141 ± 1.14 × 10(-3) for reference imaging configuration, respectively. The CNR and spatial resolution were quantitatively worse in the dual detector configuration due to the additional backscatter. The difference in imaging performance was not visible in qualitative assessment of phantom images. Combining a commercially available ICA dosimetry device with a conventional EPID did not significantly detract from the performance of either device. Further improvements in imaging performance may be achieved with an optimized design. This study demonstrates the feasibility of a dual detector concept for simultaneous imaging and dosimetry in radiation therapy.

ВЛИЯНИЕ РАЗЛИЧНЫХ ВИДОВ НАКЛАДОК НА СОПРОТИВЛЕНИЕ К ВОЗНИКНОВЕНИЮ ТРЕЩИН В МОЛЯРАХ НИЖНЕЙ ЧЕЛЮСТИ, ПОДВЕРГШИХСЯ ЭНДОДОНТИЧЕСКОМУ ЛЕЧЕНИЮ, ВОССТАНОВЛЕННЫХ С ИСПОЛЬЗОВАНИЕМ СТЕКЛОВОЛОКОННЫХ ШТИФТОВ И БЕЗ НИХ

&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Purpose: &lt;/strong&gt;To investigate the relationship between post and core build-up materials on the fracture resistance of endodontically treated teeth restored with different onlay restorations. Methods: 60 mandibular molars were endodontically treated and divided into three experimental groups that received one of the following onlay restorations: gold onlays, glass ceramic onlays, or resin composite onlays. Half of the specimens in each group received a fiber post (n = 10). Two controls groups (n = 10) were included: one group composed of sound mandibular molars, and the second group was composed of endodontically treated unrestored molars. Fracture tests were carried out by applying axial load using a universal loading machine until fracture. All fractured specimens were fractographically examined using a scanning electron microscope. Data were analyzed using two-way ANOVA and Tukey multiple comparison tests (α = 0.05). Results: Statistical analysis showed that restoration of endodontically treated teeth with gold onlays improved fracture resistance when compared to glass ceramic or resin composite onlays. The presence of a fiber post significantly improved (P&amp;lt; 0.045) fracture resistance of gold onlays from 2271 to 2874N while it did not influence the performance of the other two groups. Fractographic analyses revealed that the presence of fiber post resulted in more restorable fractures due to better stress distribution of the applied load. All onlay systems resulted in significant improvement of the fracture resistance compared to unrestored teeth (711N) but neither of them resulted in restoring the fracture resistance to match that of sound teeth (3212 N). (Am J Dent 2010;23:81-86).&lt;/p&gt;

An assessment of fracture resistance of three composite resin core build-up materials on three prefabricated non-metallic posts, cemented in endodontically treated teeth: an in vitro study.

Endodontically treated teeth with excessive loss of tooth structure would require to be restored with post and core to enhance the strength and durability of the tooth and to achieve retention for the restoration. The non-metallic posts have a superior aesthetic quality. Various core build-up materials can be used to build-up cores on the posts placed in endodontically treated teeth. These materials would show variation in their bonding with the non-metallic posts thus affecting the strength and resistance to fracture of the remaining tooth structure.Aims. The aim of the study was to assess the fracture resistance of three composite resin core build-up materials on three prefabricated non-metallic posts, cemented in extracted endodontically treated teeth.Material and Methods. Forty-five freshly extracted maxillary central incisors of approximately of the same size and shape were selected for the study. They were divided randomly into 3 groups of 15 each, depending on the types of non-metallic posts used. Each group was further divided into 3 groups (A, B and C) of 5 samples each depending on three core build-up material used. Student’s unpaired ‘t’ test was also used to analyse and compare each group with the other groups individually, and decide whether their comparisons were statistically significant.Results. Luxacore showed the highest fracture resistance among the three core build-up materials with all the three posts systems. Ti-core had intermediate values of fracture resistance and Lumiglass had the least values of fracture resistance.

The Effect of Cyclic Loading on the Compressive Strength of Core Build-Up Materials.

To evaluate the effect of cyclic loading on compressive strength of core build-up materials. Four dual-cured composites (Core.X Flow, Grandio Core, Bright Flow Core, Spee-Dee) and one light-cured reinforced resin-modified glass ionomer (Fuji II LC) were tested. One hundred cylindrical specimens (4 mm × 6 mm) were prepared. Each material had two groups (ten specimens to be tested under static loading and ten specimens to be tested after cyclic loading). The specimens were stored wet, and after 30 days, one group of each material was cyclically loaded (for 250,000 cycles with a frequency of 1.6 Hz under stress load of 68.6 N) in a chewing simulator CS-4.2. Then specimens were subjected to static compressive loading until failure in a universal testing machine. Mean compressive strength values before cycling ranged from 144 MPa (15.8) for Fuji II LC to 277 MPa (23.2) for Grandio Core. Independent t-test showed no statistically significant difference (p > 0.05) in the compressive strength of each material before and after cycling (p = 0.7 Grandio Core, p = 0.3 Core. X Flow, p = 0.6 Bright Flow Core, p = 0.2 Spee-Dee, p = 0.6 Fuji II LC); however, there was a statistically significant difference between the materials when comparing before and after cycling. All tested materials showed no reduction in the compressive strength after cycling. Therefore, the tested materials can survive 1 year in service without a reduction in compressive strength.

Comparative study of mechanical properties of direct core build-up materials.

Background and Objectives:The strength greatly influences the selection of core material because core must withstand forces due to mastication and para-function for many years. This study was conducted to evaluate certain mechanical properties of commonly used materials for direct core build-up, including visible light cured composite, polyacid modified composite, resin modified glass ionomer, high copper amalgam, and silver cermet cement.Materials and Methods:All the materials were manipulated according to the manufacturer's recommendations and standard test specimens were prepared. A universal testing machine at different cross-head speed was used to determine all the four mechanical properties. Mean compressive strength, diametral tensile strength, flexural strength, and elastic modulus with standard deviations were calculated. Multiple comparisons of the materials were also done.Results:Considerable differences in compressive strength, diametral tensile strength, and flexural strength were observed. Visible light cured composite showed relatively high compressive strength, diametral tensile strength, and flexural strength compared with the other tested materials. Amalgam showed the highest value for elastic modulus. Silver cermet showed less value for all the properties except for elastic modulus.Conclusions:Strength is one of the most important criteria for selection of a core material. Stronger materials better resist deformation and fracture provide more equitable stress distribution, greater stability, and greater probability of clinical success.

Investigation of temperature dependence of semiconductor detectors used in medicine for radiation measurements

In this study, the temperature dependence of p-type semiconductor diodes that are a part of in-vivo dosimetry system was assessed in Co-60 photon energy. The collimator and gantry angle on zero degree, SSD 100 cm, field size 20x20 cm2 was selected. The IBA EDP-5, EDP-10 and EDP-20 diode types that included in this study have different thickness of build-up material so the depth of measurements at water equivalent phantom by FC65-p ion chamber was selected at 5, 10 and 20 mm. Along the process the room and phantom temperature was measured and recorded (19°C). The special water filled PMMA phantom was used for diode set-up on its surface and a thermometer for determine phantom temperature was employed. Each type of diodes irradiated separately for one minute and the signal to dose sensitivity and calibration was performed at room temperature (19°C) by OmniPro-InViDos software with DPD-12 electrometer. Examination was repeated from 33°C to 20°C temperatures. The temperature correction factors were found from slope of the linear drawings for each diode types. The obtained correction factor for EDP-5 and EDP-10 was 0.29 %°C/cGy and 0.30 %°C/cGy respectively, that higher than recommended factor (%0.25°C/cGy). While the more fluctuation for EDP-20 was realized.