Novel radiopaque ethanol injection: physicochemical properties, animal experiments, and clinical application in vascular malformations.

BACKGROUND: Despite the efficacy of absolute ethanol (EtOH), its radiolucency introduces several risks in interventional therapy for treating vascular malformations. This study aims to develop a novel radiopaque ethanol injection (REI) to address this issue. METHODS: Iopromide is mixed with ethanol to achieve radiopacity and improve the physicochemical properties of the solution. Overall, 82 male New Zealand white rabbits are selected for in vivo radiopacity testing, peripheral vein sclerosis [animals were divided into the following 5 groups (n = 6): negative control (NC, saline, 0.250 ml/kg), positive control (EtOH, 0.250 ml/kg), low-dose REI (L-D REI, 0.125 ml/kg), moderate-dose REI (M-D REI, 0.250 ml/kg), and high-dose REI (H-D REI 0.375 ml/kg)], pharmacokinetic analyses (the blood sample was harvested before injection, 5 min, 10 min, 20 min, 40 min, 1 h, 2 h, 4 h, and 8 h after injection in peripheral vein sclerosis experiment), peripheral artery embolization [animals were divided into the following 5 groups (n = 3): NC (saline, 0.250 ml/kg), positive control (EtOH, 0.250 ml/kg), L-D REI (0.125 ml/kg), M-D REI (0.250 ml/kg), and H-D REI (0.375 ml/kg)], kidney transcatheter arterial embolization [animals were divided into the following 4 groups (n = 3): positive control (EtOH, 0.250 ml/kg), L-D REI (0.125 ml/kg), M-D REI (0.250 ml/kg), and H-D REI (0.375 ml/kg); each healthy kidney was injected with saline as negative control], and biosafety evaluations [animals were divided into the following 5 groups (n = 3): NC (0.250 ml/kg), high-dose EtOH (0.375 ml/kg), L-D REI (0.125 ml/kg), M-D REI (0.250 ml/kg), and H-D REI (0.375 ml/kg)]. Then, a prospective cohort study involving 6 patients with peripheral venous malformations (VMs) is performed to explore the clinical safety and effectiveness of REI. From Jun 1, 2023 to August 31, 2023, 6 patients [age: (33.3 ± 17.2) years] with lingual VMs received sclerotherapy of REI and 2-month follow-up. Adverse events and serious adverse events were evaluated, whereas the efficacy of REI was determined by both the traceability of the REI under DSA throughout the entire injection and the therapeutic effect 2 months after a single injection. RESULTS: The REI contains 81.4% ethanol (v/v) and 111.3 mg/ml iodine, which can be traced throughout the injection in the animals and patients. The REI also exerts a similar effect as EtOH on peripheral venous sclerosis, peripheral arterial embolization, and renal embolization. Furthermore, the REI can be metabolized at a similar rate compared to EtOH and Ultravist® and did not cause injury to the animals' heart, liver, spleen, lungs, kidneys and brain. No REI-related adverse effects have occurred during sclerotherapy of VMs, and 4/6 patients (66.7%) have achieved complete response at follow-up. CONCLUSION: In conclusion, REI is safe, exerts therapeutic effects, and compensates for the radiolucency of EtOH in treating VMs. TRIAL REGISTRATION: The clinical trial was registered as No. ChiCTR2300071751 on May 24 2023.

Effects of Calcination Temperature on the Synthesis of One-Pot Sol-Gelled Barium Titanate Powder and Its Performance as an Endodontic Radiopacifier.

Barium titanate (BaTiO3, BTO), conventionally used for dielectric and ferroelectric applications, has been assessed for biomedical applications, such as its utilization as a radiopacifier in mineral trioxide aggregates (MTA) for endodontic treatment. In the present study, BTO powders were prepared using the sol-gel process, followed by calcination at 400-1100 °C. The X-ray diffraction technique was then used to examine the as-prepared powders to elucidate the effect of calcination on the phase composition and crystalline size of BTO. Calcined BTO powders were then used as radiopacifiers for MTA. MTA-like cements were investigated to determine the optimal calcination temperature based on the radiopacity and diametral tensile strength (DTS). The experimental results showed that the formation of BTO phase was observed after calcination at temperatures of 600 °C and above. The calcined powders were a mixture of BaTiO3 phase with residual BaCO3 and/or Ba2TiO4 phases. The performance of MTA-like cements with BTO addition increased with increasing calcination temperature up to 1000 °C. The radiopacity, however, decreased after 7 days of simulated oral environmental storage, whereas an increase in DTS was observed. Optimal MTA-like cement was obtained by adding 40 wt.% 1000 °C-calcined BTO powder, with its resulting radiopacity and DTS at 4.83 ± 0.61 mmAl and 2.86 ± 0.33 MPa, respectively. After 7 days, the radiopacity decreased slightly to 4.69 ± 0.51 mmAl, accompanied by an increase in DTS to 3.13 ± 0.70 MPa. The optimal cement was biocompatible and verified using MG 63 and L929 cell lines, which exhibited cell viability higher than 95%.

Production of Composite Zinc Oxide-Polylactic Acid Radiopaque Filaments for Fused Deposition Modeling: First Stage of a Feasibility Study.

Three-dimensional printing technologies are becoming increasingly attractive for their versatility; the geometrical customizability and manageability of the final product properties are the key points. This work aims to assess the feasibility of producing radiopaque filaments for fused deposition modeling (FDM), a 3D printing technology, starting with zinc oxide (ZnO) and polylactic acid (PLA) as the raw materials. Indeed, ZnO and PLA are promising materials due to their non-toxic and biocompatible nature. Pellets of PLA and ZnO in the form of nanoparticles were mixed together using ethanol; this homogenous mixture was processed by a commercial extruder, optimizing the process parameters for obtaining mechanically stable samples. Scanning electron microscopy analyses were used to assess, in the extruded samples, the homogenous distribution of the ZnO in the PLA matrix. Moreover, X-ray microtomography revealed a certain homogenous radiopacity; this imaging technique also confirmed the correct distribution of the ZnO in the PLA matrix. Thus, our tests showed that mechanically stable radiopaque filaments, ready for FDM systems, were obtained by homogenously loading the PLA with a maximum ZnO content of 6.5% wt. (nominal). This study produced multiple outcomes. We demonstrated the feasibility of producing radiopaque filaments for additive manufacturing using safe materials. Moreover, each phase of the process is cost-effective and green-oriented; in fact, the homogenous mixture of PLA and ZnO requires only a small amount of ethanol, which evaporates in minutes without any temperature adjustment. Finally, both the extruding and the FDM technologies are the most accessible systems for the additive manufacturing commercial apparatuses.

Synthesis and Characterization of Sol-Gelled Barium Zirconate as Novel MTA Radiopacifiers.

Barium zirconate (BaZrO3, BZO), which exhibits superior mechanical, thermal, and chemical stability, has been widely used in many applications. In dentistry, BZO is used as a radiopacifier in mineral trioxide aggregates (MTAs) for endodontic filling applications. In the present study, BZO was prepared using the sol-gel process, followed by calcination at 700-1000 °C. The calcined BZO powders were investigated using X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy. Thereafter, MTA-like cements with the addition of calcined BZO powder were evaluated to determine the optimal composition based on radiopacity, diametral tensile strength (DTS), and setting times. The experimental results showed that calcined BZO exhibited a majority BZO phase with minor zirconia crystals. The crystallinity, the percentage, and the average crystalline size of BZO increased with the increasing calcination temperature. The optimal MTA-like cement was obtained by adding 20% of the 700 °C-calcined BZO powder. The initial and final setting times were 25 and 32 min, respectively. They were significantly shorter than those (70 and 56 min, respectively) prepared with commercial BZO powder. It exhibited a radiopacity of 3.60 ± 0.22 mmAl and a DTS of 3.02 ± 0.18 MPa. After 28 days of simulated oral environment storage, the radiopacity and DTS decreased to 3.36 ± 0.53 mmAl and 2.84 ± 0.27 MPa, respectively. This suggests that 700 °C-calcined BZO powder has potential as a novel radiopacifier for MTAs.

Controlled Delivery of Rosuvastatin or Rapamycin through Electrospun Bismuth Nanoparticle-Infused Perivascular Wraps Promotes Arteriovenous Fistula Maturation.

In the context of arteriovenous fistula (AVF) failure, local delivery enables the release of higher concentrations of drugs that can suppress neointimal hyperplasia (NIH) while reducing systemic adverse effects. However, the radiolucency of polymeric delivery systems hinders long-term in vivo surveillance of safety and efficacy. We hypothesize that using a radiopaque perivascular wrap to deliver anti-NIH drugs could enhance AVF maturation. Through electrospinning, we fabricated multifunctional perivascular polycaprolactone (PCL) wraps loaded with bismuth nanoparticles (BiNPs) for enhanced radiologic visibility and drugs that can attenuate NIH─rosuvastatin (Rosu) and rapamycin (Rapa). The following groups were tested on the AVFs of a total of 24 Sprague-Dawley rats with induced chronic kidney disease: control (i.e., without wrap), PCL-Bi (i.e., wrap with BiNPs), PCL-Bi-Rosu, and PCL-Bi-Rapa. We found that BiNPs significantly improved the wraps' radiopacity without affecting biocompatibility. The drug release profiles of Rosu (hydrophilic drug) and Rapa (hydrophobic drug) differed significantly. Rosu demonstrated a burst release followed by gradual tapering over 8 weeks, while Rapa demonstrated a gradual release similar to that of the hydrophobic BiNPs. In vivo investigations revealed that both drug-loaded wraps can reduce vascular stenosis on ultrasonography and histomorphometry, as well as reduce [18F]Fluorodeoxyglucose uptake on positron emission tomography. Immunohistochemical studies revealed that PCL-Bi-Rosu primarily attenuated endothelial dysfunction and hypoxia in the neointimal layer, while PCL-Bi-Rapa modulated hypoxia, inflammation, and cellular proliferation across the whole outflow vein. In summary, the controlled delivery of drugs with different properties and mechanisms of action against NIH through a multifunctional, radiopaque perivascular wrap can improve imaging and histologic parameters of AVF maturation.

Assessment of sealing efficacy, radiopacity, and surface topography of a bioinspired polymer for perforation repair.

Background: Root perforation repair presents a significant challenge in dentistry due to inherent limitations of existing materials. This study explored the potential of a novel polydopamine-based composite as a root repair material by evaluating its sealing efficacy, radiopacity, and surface topography. Methods: Confocal microscopy assessed sealing ability, comparing the polydopamine-based composite to the gold standard, mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA). Radiopacity was evaluated using the aluminium step wedge technique conforming to ISO standards. Surface roughness analysis utilized atomic force microscopy (AFM), while field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) visualized morphology. Results: The polydopamine-based composite exhibited significantly superior sealing efficacy compared to MTA (P < 0.001). Radiopacity reached 3 mm aluminium equivalent, exceeding minimum clinical requirements. AFM analysis revealed a smooth surface topography, and FESEM confirmed successful composite synthesis. Conclusion: This study demonstrates promising properties of the polydopamine-based composite for root perforation repair, including superior sealing efficacy, clinically relevant radiopacity, and smooth surface topography. Further investigation is warranted to assess its clinical viability and potential translation to endodontic practice.

Graphene oxide-encapsulated baghdadite nanocomposite improved physical, mechanical, and biological properties of a vancomycin-loaded PMMA bone cement.

Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) bone cement is commonly used in orthopedic surgeries to fill the bone defects or fix the prostheses. These cements are usually containing amounts of a nonbioactive radiopacifying agent such as barium sulfate and zirconium dioxide, which does not have a good interface compatibility with PMMA, and the clumps formed from these materials can scratch metal counterfaces. In this work, graphene oxide encapsulated baghdadite (GOBgh) nanoparticles were applied as radiopacifying and bioactive agent in a PMMA bone cement containing 2 wt.% of vancomycin (VAN). The addition of 20 wt.% of GOBgh (GOBgh20) nanoparticles to PMMA powder caused a 33.6% increase in compressive strength and a 70.9% increase in elastic modulus compared to the Simplex® P bone cement, and also enhanced the setting properties, radiopacity, antibacterial activity, and the apatite formation in simulated body fluid. In vitro cell assessments confirmed the increase in adhesion and proliferation of MG-63 cells as well as the osteogenic differentiation of human adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells on the surface of PMMA-GOBgh20 cement. The chorioallantoic membrane assay revealed the excellent angiogenesis activity of nanocomposite cement samples. In vivo experiments on a rat model also demonstrated the mineralization and bone integration of PMMA-GOBgh20 cement within four weeks. Based on the promising results obtained, PMMA-GOBgh20 bone cement is suggested as an optimal sample for use in orthopedic surgeries.

Radiopacity Enhancements in Polymeric Implant Biomaterials: A Comprehensive Literature Review.

Polymers as biomaterials possess favorable properties, which include corrosion resistance, light weight, biocompatibility, ease of processing, low cost, and an ability to be easily tailored to meet specific applications. However, their inherent low X-ray attenuation, resulting from the low atomic numbers of their constituent elements, i.e., hydrogen (1), carbon (6), nitrogen (7), and oxygen (8), makes them difficult to visualize radiographically. Imparting radiopacity to radiolucent polymeric implants is necessary to enable noninvasive evaluation of implantable medical devices using conventional imaging methods. Numerous studies have undertaken this by blending various polymers with contrast agents consisting of heavy elements. The selection of an appropriate contrast agent is important, primarily to ensure that it does not cause detrimental effects to the relevant mechanical and physical properties of the polymer depending upon the intended application. Furthermore, its biocompatibility with adjacent tissues and its excretion from the body require thorough evaluation. We aimed to summarize the current knowledge on contrast agents incorporated into synthetic polymers in the context of implantable medical devices. While a single review was found that discussed radiopacity in polymeric biomaterials, the publication is outdated and does not address contemporary polymers employed in implant applications. Our review provides an up-to-date overview of contrast agents incorporated into synthetic medical polymers, encompassing both temporary and permanent implants. We expect that our results will significantly inform and guide the strategic selection of contrast agents, considering the specific requirements of implantable polymeric medical devices.

The radiopacity of single-shade composite resins: A comparative evaluation.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the radiopacity of single-shade composite resins with group and multi-shade composite resins via a digital image analysis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Disc-shaped (5 mm in diameter, 2 mm in thickness) specimens were prepared with one multi-shade (Estelite Sigma Quick-ESQ), four single-shade (Omnichroma-OC, Charisma Topaz One-CTO, Vitra Unique-VU, and ZenChroma-ZC), three group-shade (G-aenial Achord-GA, Optishade-OS, and Estelite Asteria-EA), and one posterior composite resin (Estelite Posterior-EP) (n = 3). A radiographic image of all the specimens, an aluminum step-wedge, and a 2 mm thick tooth section were taken. Mean gray values (MGV) of the specimens, enamel, and dentin were calculated by ImageJ software. Composition analysis was performed with EDS, and SEM images (×10,000) were obtained. The data were analyzed with Kruskal-Wallis and Post hoc adjusted Bonferroni analysis (p = 0.05). RESULTS: The mean MGV of CTO, the highest of all test groups, was significantly higher than OC and dentin (p = 0.04 and p = 0.009, relatively). The lowest mean MGV was also observed in a single-shade group, OC. EDS analysis showed that the tested materials comprised various radiopaque elements. CONCLUSIONS: All of the single-shade and group-shade groups exceeded the MGV value of dentin, which is clinically expected from any restorative material. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: The radiopacity properties of various single-shade composite resins which as a category is a rising trend in esthetic dentistry were investigated. It is important for clinicians to be aware of novel materials' physical qualities including radiopacity, a daily clinical criteria for restorative materials.

Contribution of micropores in porous zirconia spheres to high optical transparency of dental resin composites.

Transparency to UV-Vis light and radiopacity of dental resin composites containing zirconia (ZrO2) fillers were investigated. The transparency of the resin composite containing porous ZrO2 spheres was much higher than that containing irregularly shaped ZrO2 particles. Calcination of the porous ZrO2 spheres at high temperatures led to dramatically reduced specific surface areas and pore volumes. The transparency of the resin composite containing the calcined porous ZrO2 spheres drastically decreased as the calcination temperature increased. Then, the enhanced UV-Vis transmittance of the resin composite containing porous ZrO2 spheres is attributed to the concentration and physical characteristics of the pores. The radiopacity of the resin composites containing porous ZrO2 spheres increased slightly with increasing calcination temperature. This study revealed that the internal structure of the ZrO2 fillers mainly influenced in the UV-Vis light transmittance of the resin composites.

The radiographic evaluation of 11 different resin composites.

Radiopacities of dental materials used in restorations are very important in making the radiographic diagnosis. Therefore, the aim of our study was to evaluate the radiopacity of five single-shade and six simplishade resin composites with digital technique. Five different single-shade (Charisma Topaz One, Omnichroma, Clearfil Majesty ES-2 Universal, Vittra APS Unique, ZenChroma) and six different simplishade resin composites (G-aenial A'CHORD, Essentia Universal, OptiShade, Estelite Asteria, Filtek Universal, Filtek Z250) were used. For each group, five disk-shaped resin composites of 1 mm and 2 mm thicknesses were prepared. As a control, tooth slices with 1 mm and 2 mm thicknesses and a 99.5% pure aluminum step-wedge were used. The samples, tooth slices, and a step-wedge were placed on a photostimulable phosphor plate. Digital radiographs were taken from 30 and 40 cm distances (70 kVp, 7 mA 0.28 ms). The images were analyzed using ImageJ software to measure the mean gray values. Data were analyzed using SPSS 22 package program and Kruskal-Wallis H Test (p < 0.05). The highest radiopacity was seen in Filtek Universal at both distances and thicknesses. Omnichroma had the lowest radiopacity in all parameters. All specimens showed higher radiopacity than dentin. Except for Omnichroma 1 and 2 mm thick, Clearfil Majesty ES-2 Universal 2 mm thick, samples showed higher radiopacities than enamel (p < 0.05). The restorative materials tested were found to be more radiopaque than dentin. The samples passed the International Organization for Standardization for radiopacity values. The radiopacity values were affected by thickness and type of materials.

Endodontic Radiopacifying Application of Barium Titanate Prepared through a Combination of Mechanical Milling and Heat Treatment.

Mineral trioxide aggregates (MTA) are commonly used as endodontic filling materials but suffer from a long setting time and tooth discoloration. In the present study, the feasibility of using barium titanate (BTO) for discoloration and a calcium chloride (CaCl2) solution to shorten the setting time was investigated. BTO powder was prepared using high-energy ball milling for 3 h, followed by sintering at 700-1300 °C for 2 h. X-ray diffraction was used to examine the crystallinity and crystalline size of the as-milled and heat-treated powders. MTA-like cements were then prepared using 20-40 wt.% BTO as a radiopacifier and solidified using a 0-30% CaCl2 solution. The corresponding radiopacity, diametral tensile strength (DTS), initial and final setting times, and discoloration performance were examined. The experimental results showed that for the BTO powder prepared using a combination of mechanical milling and heat treatment, the crystallinity and crystalline size increased with the increasing sintering temperature. The BTO sintered at 1300 °C (i.e., BTO-13) exhibited the best radiopacity and DTS. The MTA-like cement supplemented with 30% BTO-13 and solidified with a 10% CaCl2 solution exhibited a radiopacity of 3.68 ± 0.24 mmAl and a DTS of 2.54 ± 0.28 MPa, respectively. In the accelerated discoloration examination using UV irradiation, the color difference was less than 1.6 and significantly lower than the clinically perceptible level (3.7). This novel MTA exhibiting a superior color stability, shortened setting time, and excellent biocompatibility has potential for use in endodontic applications.

Radiopacity of Sodium Zirconium Cyclosilicate in Computed Tomography: a case of a patient with Hyperkalemia and kidney disease.

Sodium Zirconium Cyclosilicate (SZC) is commonly used for treating hyperkalemia because it sequesters gastrointestinal potassium ions, thereby reducing serum potassium levels. However, a less-discussed aspect of SZC is its radiopacity on x-ray-based imaging techniques. The European Medicines Agency (EMA) has only vaguely addressed this issue. Radiopaque substances like SZC can interfere with diagnostic imaging, creating challenges for clinicians and radiologists. We present the case of a 34-year-old Italian male to illustrate these concerns.

Multifunctionality of Iodinated Halogen-Bonded Polymer: Biodegradability, Radiopacity, Elasticity, Ductility, and Self-Healing Ability.

A polymer with high contents of ester bonds and iodine atoms was synthesized, exhibiting sufficient biodegradability and radioactivity for biomedical applications. The iodine moieties of the synthesized polyester can generate halogen bonding between molecules, which may develop additional functional properties through the bonding. In this study, poly(glycerol adipate) (PGA) was selected and synthesized as a polyester, which was then adequately conjugated with three different types of iodine compounds via the hydroxy groups of PGA. It was found that the iodine compounds could effectively work as donors of halogen bonding. The thermal analysis by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) revealed that the glass transition temperature increased with the increase in the strength of interactions caused by π-π stacking and halogen bonding, eventually reaching 49.6 °C for PGA with triiodobenzoic groups. An elastomeric PGA with monoiodobenzoic groups was also obtained, exhibiting a high self-healing ability at room temperature because of the reconstruction of halogen bonding. Such multifaceted performance of the synthesized polyester with controllable thermal/mechanical properties was realized by halogen bonding, leading to a promising biomaterial with multifunctionality.

Chemomechanical Properties and Biocompatibility of Various Premixed Putty-type Bioactive Ceramic Cements.

INTRODUCTION: This study aimed to evaluate the chemomechanical properties and biocompatibility of recently introduced premixed putty-type bioactive ceramic cements (PPBCs). METHODS: Including ProRoot MTA (PMTA) as a control, BC RRM fast-set putty (BCPT), Well-Root PT (WRPT), One-Fil PT (OFPT), and Endocem MTA premixed (ECPM) were compared to evaluate setting time, radiopacity, pH change, and microhardness. Biocompatibility on human dental pulp cells was compared using CCK-8 assay. Mineralization potential was evaluated using alkaline phosphatase activity, Alizarin Red S (ARS) staining, and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction with odontogenic gene marker. For data analysis, 1-way analysis of variance and Tukey's post hoc test were used at the significance level of 95%. RESULTS: Among the PPBCs, BCPT presented the longest (552 ± 27) setting time (minutes) and others showed significantly shorter time than PMTA (334 ± 22) (P < .05). WRPT (6.20 ± 0.54) and OFPT (5.82 ± 0.50) showed significantly higher radiopacity values (mmAl) and others showed similar value compared with PMTA (P > .05). All PPBCs showed high alkaline pH from fresh materials and tended to increase according to time periods from 30 minutes to 12 hours. ECPM showed the highest value of microhardness (81.62 ± 5.90), WRPT showed similar, and others showed lower than PMTA (P < .05). All PPBCs showed biocompatibility in CCK-8 assay. All PPBCs showed similar or better value compared with PMTA in ALP and ARS staining, and ALP and DSPP marker expression (P < .05). CONCLUSIONS: The PPBCs showed clinically acceptable chemomechanical properties and favorable mineralization potential.

Differences in radiopacity among CT contrast agents and concentrations: A quantitative study.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Several studies in the literature have attempted to subjectively assess the degree of visualization of different neurovascular structures using different contrast agents and concentrations. Given the recent contrast shortages, we aim to objectively compare the radiopacity achieved with four angiographic contrast agents used in clinical practice. METHODS: Isovue 370, Visipaque 320, Omnipaque 300, and Isovue 300 were each drawn up at 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100% concentrations and compared against normal saline and air syringes. CT scans were obtained, and regions of interest were analyzed for radiopacity using Hounsfield unit (HU) measurements. An aneurysm model with different contrast concentrations was also scanned and dimensions compared. Two-tailed t-tests and Cohen's d coefficients were applied to assess for differences in mean HU measurements. RESULTS: Isovue 370 and Isovue 300 had the highest and lowest mean HU, respectively (p < .001). Visipaque 320 at 25% concentration had the lowest mean HU at -.76. Statistically similar agents (p < .05) were Visipaque 320 and Omnipaque 300 at a 100% concentration (p = .30), and Omnipaque 300 and Isovue 300 at a 25% concentration (p = .73). Aneurysm dimensions among Isovue 370, Visipaque 320, and Omnipaque 300 were all similar, whereas with Isovue 300, the dimensions were significantly smaller (p < .05). CONCLUSION: Isovue 370 provides the highest HU radiopacity and the most accurate aneurysm measurements. Angiographic measurements obtained with Isovue 300 may underestimate the actual aneurysmal dimensions. Visipaque 320 and Omnipaque 300 at 100% concentration have similar mean HUs and are beneficial for patients with chronic kidney or cardiac disease.

The solubility, pH value, chemical structure, radiopacity, and cytotoxicity of four different root canal sealers: an in vitro study.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to investigate solubility, pH value, chemical structure, radiopacity, and cytotoxicity of AH Plus BC, TotalFill BC, AH Plus, and AH Plus Jet sealers. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Cytotoxicity analysis with direct and extraction tests at 3 different concentrations (1:1, 1:2, 1:4 v/v%) and time (24 h, 48 h, and 72 h) on Saos-2, PdLF, and THP-1 cell lines, chemical structure with scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) analysis, solubility, pH, and radiopacity values of AH Plus BC, TotalFill BC, AH Plus, and AH Plus Jet were evaluated. For statistical analyses of the groups, repeated measures, factorial, and one-way ANOVA tests were used. The statistical significance level was set at p < .05. RESULTS: Resin-based sealers showed higher cytotoxicity values than the bioceramic-based sealers (p < 0.05). Time and concentrations were effective on the cell viabilities for cell lines. Higher peaks of calcium were detected bioceramic-based sealers and higher amount of zirconium was detected in AH Plus BC (p < 0.05). AH Plus BC showed similar radiopacity value with AH Plus, AH Plus Jet, whereas TotalFill BC showed the lowest radiopacity (p < 0.05). Bioceramic-based sealers had higher pH values in all experiment periods, and the difference between resin- and bioceramic-based sealer groups was significant (p < 0.05). However, the solubility values of the tested root canal sealers revealed no differences (p > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The newly produced AH Plus BC Sealer showed similar properties with TotalFill BC, and their biological properties were better than AH Plus and AH Plus Jet. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: AH Plus BC could be a possible alternative to other bioceramic- or resin-based sealers.

Radiopacity evaluation of calcium silicate cements.

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to compare the radiopacity of calcium silicate cements using a digital imaging method. METHODS: Four calcium silicate cements, NeoMTA 2, OrthoMTA, ProRoot MTA, and Biodentine, were used in this study. Disk-shaped samples were prepared from each material and placed on a plexiglass plate. An aluminum step-wedge was placed alongside the samples on a digital sensor and exposed to 70 kVp and 8 mA from 30 cm away for 0.32 s. The greyness values ​​of the tested materials were measured digitally with the system software and compared with those of the step-wedge to determine the equivalent aluminum thickness. RESULTS: The radiopacity values, expressed in equivalent millimetres of aluminum, of the studied materials ProRoot MTA, OrthoMTA, NeoMTA 2, and Biodentine were 4.32 ± 0.17 mm Al, 3.92 ± 0.09 mm Al, 3.83 ± 0.07 mm Al, and 2.29 ± 0.21 mm Al, respectively. Statistically significant differences were found between the mean radiographic density values of the tested materials (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: ProRoot MTA was the most radiopaque root canal filling material among the tested materials. All materials, except Biodentine, were found to be compliant with the minimum radiopacity requirements of ISO 6876 and ADA 57 standards.

Synthesis and characterization of non-invasively traceable poly(ether urethane)s for biomedical applications.

The ease of real-time visibility of biomedical implants and minimally invasive medical devices is indispensable in radiological imaging to avoid complications and assess therapeutic success. Herein, we prepared a series of polyurethane elastomers with inherent radiopacity, enabling them to be imaged under fluoroscopy. Through an appropriate selection of less toxic intermediates such as 1,6-Diisocyanatohexane (HDI), poly (tetramethylene glycol) (PTMG), and a chain extender, iodinated hydroquinone bis(2-hydroxyethyl) ether (IBHE), new radiopaque polyether urethanes (RPUs) containing about 10.8 to 20.6% iodine contents were synthesized. RPUs were characterized for the physicochemical, thermomechanical and radiopacifying properties. It was observed that the concentration of IBHE had a profound impact on the radiopacity of polyurethanes. RPUs exhibited similar or better radiopacity than an aluminum wedge of equivalent thickness.In-vivoimaging revealed that the RPUs were easily distinguishable from the surrounding tissues. Irrespective of iodine content, all the RPUs were cytocompatible, indicating the suitability of these materials for medical and allied applications.

Radiopacity evaluation of different types of resin restorative materials using a digital radiography system.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of the study was to evaluate and compare the radiopacity of 20 current dental resin composites with digital radiography. METHODS: Ten specimens, 10-mm in diameter and 1-mm thickness, were prepared and radiographed using phosphor plates close to Al step wedges and tooth sections. The mean grey values (MGVs) were measured using an ImageJ software program and converted to equivalent Al thickness. Data were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tamhane post hoc test (p < 0.05). Correlation between mean radiopacity and filler content (wt% and vol%) of the tested materials was analyzed with linear regression analysis. RESULTS: The radiopacity of all composites ranged from 1.32 mm Al (Estellite Flow Quick) to 3.41 mm Al (Charisma Classic). All the tested materials, except four restorative materials, had a radiopacity equal or higher than the enamel (p < 0.05). Linear regression revealed low correlation between the radiopacity and filler content of the composite. CONCLUSION: Majority of the materials has appropriate radiopacity for dental restorations. There was great variation in radiopacity level, may clinically affect the diagnosis.