A Layered Aluminophosphate [C17H21N2]3[Al3(PO4)4]·5H2O with Fluorescent Property Derived from Carbazolyl-Modified Template.

Designing and innovating organic structure-directing agents is the key to synthesizing novel molecular sieve structures. Herein, we design a novel carbazolyl-modified template and further synthesize a two-dimensional layered aluminophosphate with [C17H21N2]3[Al3(PO4)4]·5H2O (denoted as ZHKU-2). ZHKU-2 is composed of AA-stacked [Al3P4O16]3- layers constructed from alternating AlO4 and PO3(=O) tetrahedrons to form a 4.6.8 network featured by capped six-ring secondary building units. Carbazolyl-templated ZHKU-2 exhibits strong purple fluorescence with a high quantum yield of 25.98%. This work expands aluminophosphate materials of the [Al3P4O16]3- family and provides a view for synthesizing new molecular sieves by exploring the organic luminescence structure-directing agents.

A Mononuclear Iron(II) Spin-Crossover Molecule Decorated by Photochromic Azobenzene Group.

Aiming at constructing photoresponsive spin crossover (SCO) behavior, herein we designed a new ligand Abtz (Abtz = (E)-N-(4-((E)-phenyldiazenyl)phenyl)-1-(thiazol-4-yl)methanimine) which was decorated by a photochromic azobenzene group. Based on this photochromic ligand, a mononuclear Fe(II) SCO molecule [Fe(Abtz)3](BF4)2·(EAC)2 (1, EAC = ethyl acetate) was successfully synthesized and showed a complete one-step SCO behavior. Under continuous UV light and blue-light exposure, the cis-trans photoisomerization of both ligand Abtz and compound 1 in the liquid phase was confirmed through UV-Vis spectra. Moreover, the 1H-NMR spectra of Abtz reveal a trans-cis conversion ratio of 37%. Although the UV-Vis spectra reveal the photochromic behavior for 1 in the solution phase, the SCO behavior in the liquid state is absent according to the variable-temperature Evans method, suggesting the possible decomposition. Moreover, in the solid state, the cis-trans photoisomerization of both Abtz and 1 was not observed, due to the steric hindrance.

Mandible reconstruction assisted by preoperative virtual surgical simulation.

OBJECTIVE: In this study, we evaluated the clinical efficacy of mandible reconstruction with preoperative virtual planning, which focused on esthetics and occlusion. STUDY DESIGN: A series of 9 patients were enrolled prospectively to undergo mandibulectomy and simultaneous reconstruction. Preoperative spiral CT scans of the maxillofacial region and the fibula region were performed. Virtual surgery of tumor resection and fibula reconstruction was performed in the Mimics platform. The reconstructed mandible models were fabricated with CAD/CAM technique. The reconstruction plate and the positioning template were accommodated to the stereolithographic model as the surgical template. RESULTS: Surgery was performed accurately according to the templates. All the fibula flaps survived. The appearance and occlusion of the patients were satisfactory. CONCLUSIONS: With preoperative virtual planning, the spatial relationship of the mandible and the fibula graft can be planned individually, which helps achieve optimum appearance and occlusion relationship.

Clinical evaluation of ceramic implant abutments in anterior restorations.

The development of new high strength ceramic abutments can enhance the overall aesthetic outcome of an implant-supported prosthesis. This study was to compare the clinical application of alumina and zirconia ceramic implant abutments in the anterior region. Twenty-three consecutive patients requiring single-tooth implants in the anterior region were randomized to receive either an alumina ceramic abutment (CeraAdapt) or a zirconia ceramic abutment. All-ceramic (IPS-Empress 2) crowns were then fabricated and cemented over the abutments with composite cement. Peri-implant mucosal health and bone levels were evaluated by the gingival index and radiographs at 2-week and 1-year follow-up. Aesthetic outcomes as well as technical problems with the restorations were evaluated during the observation period from 12 to 48 months after functional loading. A total of 17 alumina ceramic abutments and 18 zirconia ceramic abutments were evaluated. No patients dropped out during the study period. Eighteen out of the 23 patients maintained good function throughout the study. The median observation period was 21 months. Ceramic crown loosening was found in two restorations at 1-week and 2-years respectively after insertion. One ceramic crown fractured at 1 week after insertion. At 1-year follow-up, mean marginal bone loss around implants was 1.2 +/- 0.5 mm and the peri-implant mucosa in relation to abutment or crown was healthy with a mean gingival score of 0.6 +/- 0.2. All patients were satisfied with the final aesthetic outcome. However, two alumina abutments fractured after two years of loading. In conclusion, both ceramic abutments have shown a favourable biological response and aesthetic outcome; however, zirconia abutments with their superior mechanical properties might be better for supporting single-tooth implant restorations in the aesthetic zone.

[Maxilla reconstruction with the free iliac osteomuscular flap and simultaneous osseointegrated implant embeding].

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the clinical outcome of reconstruction of maxillary defects with vascularized iliac crest flap and simultaneous osseointegrated implant embedding. METHODS: During September to October 2003, two patients with maxillary defects from tumor resection underwent microsurgical reconstruction. The free iliac osteomuscular flap transferring and simultaneous osseointegrated implant embedding were performed to repair the defects. Three months after the reconstructive surgery, an abutment operation was preformed and denture was applied in both cases. RESULTS: The flaps survived well. Postoperative follow-up for 8 to 9 months showed that the patients obtained good zygomaxillary appearance, normal occlusion, and satisfactory pronunciation, without oronasal fistula or other serious complications. CONCLUSIONS: The free iliac crest osteomuscular flap with simultaneous osseointegrated implant embedding is an ideal, effective and cosmetically acceptable method for maxilla reconstruction.