Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide Negatively Regulates Alarmin-Driven Type 2 Innate Lymphoid Cell Responses.

Neuroimmune interactions have emerged as critical modulators of allergic inflammation, and type 2 innate lymphoid cells (ILC2s) are an important cell type for mediating these interactions. Here, we show that ILC2s expressed both the neuropeptide calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) and its receptor. CGRP potently inhibited alarmin-driven type 2 cytokine production and proliferation by lung ILC2s both in vitro and in vivo. CGRP induced marked changes in ILC2 expression programs in vivo and in vitro, attenuating alarmin-driven proliferative and effector responses. A distinct subset of ILCs scored highly for a CGRP-specific gene signature after in vivo alarmin stimulation, suggesting CGRP regulated this response. Finally, we observed increased ILC2 proliferation and type 2 cytokine production as well as exaggerated responses to alarmins in mice lacking the CGRP receptor. Together, these data indicate that endogenous CGRP is a critical negative regulator of ILC2 responses in vivo.

Specialized Proresolving Mediators in Innate and Adaptive Immune Responses in Airway Diseases.

Airborne pathogens and environmental stimuli evoke immune responses in the lung. It is critical to health that these responses be controlled to prevent tissue damage and the compromise of organ function. Resolution of inflammation is a dynamic process that is coordinated by biochemical and cellular mechanisms. Recently, specialized proresolving mediators (SPMs) have been identified in resolution exudates. These molecules orchestrate anti-inflammatory and proresolving actions that are cell type specific. In this review, we highlight SPM biosynthesis, the influence of SPMs on the innate and adaptive immune responses in the lung, as well as recent insights from SPMs on inflammatory disease pathophysiology. Uncovering these mediators and cellular mechanisms for resolution is providing new windows into physiology and disease pathogenesis.

The neuropeptide NMU amplifies ILC2-driven allergic lung inflammation.

Type 2 innate lymphoid cells (ILC2s) both contribute to mucosal homeostasis and initiate pathologic inflammation in allergic asthma. However, the signals that direct ILC2s to promote homeostasis versus inflammation are unclear. To identify such molecular cues, we profiled mouse lung-resident ILCs using single-cell RNA sequencing at steady state and after in vivo stimulation with the alarmin cytokines IL-25 and IL-33. ILC2s were transcriptionally heterogeneous after activation, with subpopulations distinguished by expression of proliferative, homeostatic and effector genes. The neuropeptide receptor Nmur1 was preferentially expressed by ILC2s at steady state and after IL-25 stimulation. Neuromedin U (NMU), the ligand of NMUR1, activated ILC2s in vitro, and in vivo co-administration of NMU with IL-25 strongly amplified allergic inflammation. Loss of NMU-NMUR1 signalling reduced ILC2 frequency and effector function, and altered transcriptional programs following allergen challenge in vivo. Thus, NMUR1 signalling promotes inflammatory ILC2 responses, highlighting the importance of neuro-immune crosstalk in allergic inflammation at mucosal surfaces.

Erratum: The neuropeptide NMU amplifies ILC2-driven allergic lung inflammation.

This corrects the article DOI: 10.1038/nature24029.

The Effect of Firing Cycles on the Fit of Cobalt-Chromium Multiunit Prostheses Fabricated by Additive Manufacturing.

PURPOSE: The effect of annealing and firing cycle on the adaptation of cobalt-chromium (CoCr) restorations fabricated by additive manufacturing has been poorly documented. This study compared the marginal and internal fit of CoCr three-unit fixed dental prostheses before and after firing cycles. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The first right maxillary premolar (MP) and molar (MM) on a typodont model, were prepared with a circumferential 1.2 mm chamfer, 2 mm occlusal reduction, and total taper of 8 degrees, to receive 3-unit fixed dental prostheses (FDP). After the framework design, 20 framework specimens were fabricated using CoCr metal powder by selective laser melting. The replica technique was used for marginal and internal fit measurements in mesiodistal and buccolingual planes. The specimens were submitted to an annealing process, and to ceramic firing protocol. Measurements were repeated after each firing cycle. The data were compared by using Levene test, t-test, and analysis of variance (ANOVA) (α = 0.05). RESULTS: A significant difference was found in the total intaglio surface discrepancy between the 3 treatments. The annealing treatment induced a statistical difference in the discrepancy value compared to the as printed state (p = 0.028). A significant difference was detected between the initial manufacturing phase and the ceramic layering firing cycle (p = 0.003). CONCLUSIONS: Firing cycles induced an alteration of the frameworks adaptation.

FcεR1-expressing nociceptors trigger allergic airway inflammation.

BACKGROUND: Lung nociceptor neurons amplify immune cell activity and mucus metaplasia in response to an inhaled allergen challenge in sensitized mice. OBJECTIVE: We sought to identify the cellular mechanisms by which these sensory neurons are activated subsequent to allergen exposure. METHODS: We used calcium microscopy and electrophysiologic recording to assess whether vagal neurons directly respond to the model allergen ovalbumin (OVA). Next, we generated the first nociceptor-specific FcεR1γ knockdown (TRPV1Cre::FcεR1γfl/fl) mice to assess whether this targeted invalidation would affect the severity of allergic inflammation in response to allergen challenges. RESULTS: Lung-innervating jugular nodose complex ganglion neurons express the high-affinity IgE receptor FcεR1, the levels of which increase in OVA-sensitized mice. FcεR1γ-expressing vagal nociceptor neurons respond directly to OVA complexed with IgE with depolarization, action potential firing, calcium influx, and neuropeptide release. Activation of vagal neurons by IgE-allergen immune complexes, through the release of substance P from their peripheral terminals, directly amplifies TH2 cell influx and polarization in the airways. Allergic airway inflammation is decreased in TRPV1Cre::FcεR1γfl/fl mice and in FcεR1α-/- mice into which bone marrow has been transplanted. Finally, increased in vivo circulating levels of IgE following allergen sensitization enhances the responsiveness of FcεR1 to immune complexes in both mouse jugular nodose complex ganglion neurons and human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived nociceptors. CONCLUSIONS: Allergen sensitization triggers a feedforward inflammatory loop between IgE-producing plasma cells, FcεR1-expressing vagal sensory neurons, and TH2 cells, which helps to both initiate and amplify allergic airway inflammation. These data highlight a novel target for reducing allergy, namely, FcεR1γ expressed by nociceptors.

X-ray microtomographic evaluation of the absolute marginal fit of fixed prostheses made from soft Co-Cr and zirconia.

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM: The absolute marginal fit of CAD-CAM presintered fixed partial dentures has been poorly documented. PURPOSE: The purpose of this in vitro study was to evaluate the marginal fit of presintered cobalt-chromium (Co-Cr) and zirconia 3-unit fixed partial dentures by using X-ray microcomputed tomography (µCT). MATERIAL AND METHODS: A metal model was prepared from a typodont to receive fixed partial dentures (N=12). The maxillary first premolar and first molar were prepared with a circumferential 1.2-mm chamfer and 2-mm occlusal reduction. The dies were scanned and assigned to 1 of 2 groups to receive the prostheses made of presintered Co-Cr or presintered zirconia (n=6). Each framework was seated on its model without load application. The abutments were scanned by using µCT. A circle with 10 diameters, with a step of 18 degrees, was projected at the center of the obtained image. Absolute marginal discrepancy and marginal gap mean values were measured, and overextended and underextended margins determined. The data were analyzed by using the Levene t test and ANOVA (α=.05). RESULTS: No statistically significant difference was found in the marginal fit between the materials tested (P=.939). The mean values were 66 ±14 µm for Co-Cr and 61 ±12 µm for zirconia. The absolute marginal discrepancy mean value for the premolar was 69 ±12 µm and 41 ±9 µm for the molar (P<.001). Overextension was predominant for both materials tested, with a higher percentage reported for the zirconia group. CONCLUSIONS: Presintered alloys presented clinically acceptable adaptation with a predominance of marginal overextensions.

Effect of lamination layer thickness and abutment preparation on the fit of Co-Cr multi-unit prostheses fabricated by additive manufacturing: An in vitro study.

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM: Selective laser melting has been increasingly used in the fabrication of metal-ceramic prostheses. The lamination layer thickness may influence the fit of the restoration. However, data regarding its impact remain scarce. PURPOSE: The purpose of this in vitro study was to evaluate the marginal and internal fit of cobalt-chromium (Co-Cr) 3-unit frameworks fabricated by additive manufacturing with different melting layer thicknesses on different abutments. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The first right maxillary premolar and molar from a typodont were prepared with a circumferential 1.2-mm chamfer, 2-mm occlusal reduction, and total taper of 8 degrees to receive 3-unit fixed partial dentures. After framework design, the data were sent to a laser machine, and 30 specimens were fabricated from Co-Cr metal powder (Mediloy S-Co) by selective laser melting. Specimens were assigned to 3 groups (n=10) with different lamination layer thicknesses of 25 (L25), 50 (L50), and 100 (L100) µm. Marginal fit and internal fit were evaluated. Results were compared among layer thickness groups and abutments. Data were compared by using the Levene test, t test, and ANOVA (α=.05). RESULTS: A statistical difference was found between different layer thickness groups (P=.016), but not between abutments (P=.429). On the abutment level, significant difference was found in the gap values for the molars (P=.049) between layer thickness groups, but not for the premolars (P=.126). Group L25 reported the smallest mean discrepancy values, and group L100 reported the highest, with statistical difference found between group L100 and groups L25 (P<.001) and L50 (P<.025), but not between groups L25 and L50 (P=.094). CONCLUSIONS: The lamination layer thickness affected the adaptation of the metal frameworks. Framework fit did not significantly differ between abutments.

Evaluation of ceramic adherence to cobalt-chromium alloys fabricated by different manufacturing techniques.

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM: Selective laser melting has been increasingly used in the fabrication of metal-ceramic prostheses. The longevity of the prostheses depends on the strength of the metal-ceramic bond, which may differ with the framework manufacturing technique. PURPOSE: The purpose of this in vitro study was to compare the bond strength of ceramic to cobalt-chromium (Co-Cr) alloys fabricated by different manufacturing methods. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Sixty Ø15×2-mm disk-shaped specimens were prepared and assigned to 3 groups (n=20) with different manufacturing methods: milled Co-Cr (M), selective laser melted Co-Cr (SLM), and cast Co-Cr (C). The disks were ceramic layered with a 2-mm thickness. Half of the specimens from each group were thermocycled. The shear bond strength (SBS) test was applied to all specimens. The microstructure changes after ceramic layering were evaluated by X-ray diffraction (XRD). The specimens' surface morphology was analyzed by using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). RESULTS: Thermocycling had a significant effect on SBS values in the SLM group (P=.017). Considering the registered Fmax (force inducing bonding failure), a significant difference was found between SLM and both M and C groups (P<.001). No significant difference was found between milled and cast Co-Cr (P=.885). The failure types were mostly mixed failures. Ceramic layering induced a crystallization increase in groups C and SLM. CONCLUSIONS: The adhesion strength of ceramic to Co-Cr differed with alloy composition and manufacturing technique. The aging process influenced the results in the SLM group.

Cysteinyl maresins regulate the prophlogistic lung actions of cysteinyl leukotrienes.

BACKGROUND: Cysteinyl leukotrienes (CysLTs) are potent prophlogistic mediators in asthmatic patients; however, inhibition of CysLT receptor 1 is not a consistently effective treatment, suggesting additional regulatory mechanisms. Other cysteinyl-containing lipid mediators (LMs) derived from docosahexaenoic acid, namely maresin conjugates in tissue regeneration (MCTRs), were recently discovered. Therefore their production and actions in the lung are of considerable interest. OBJECTIVE: We sought to determine MCTR production, bioactions, and mechanisms in the human lung and in patients with experimental allergic airway inflammation. METHODS: LM metabololipidomic profiling of the lung was performed by using liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry. Donor-derived human precision-cut lung slices were exposed to leukotriene (LT) D4, MCTRs, or both before determination of airway contraction. The actions of exogenous MCTRs on murine allergic host responses were determined in the setting of ovalbumin- and house dust mite-induced lung inflammation. RESULTS: Lipidomic profiling showed that the most abundant cysteinyl LMs in healthy human lungs were MCTRs, whereas CysLTs were most prevalent in patients with disease. MCTRs blocked LTD4-initiated airway contraction in human precision-cut lung slices. In mouse allergic lung inflammation MCTRs were present with temporally regulated production. With ovalbumin-induced inflammation, MCTR1 was most potent for promoting resolution of eosinophils, and MCTR3 potently decreased airway hyperreactivity to methacholine, bronchoalveolar lavage fluid albumin, and serum IgE levels. MCTR1 and MCTR3 inhibited lung eosinophilia after house dust mite-induced inflammation. CONCLUSION: These results identified lung MCTRs that blocked human LTD4-induced airway contraction and promoted resolution of murine allergic airway responses when added exogenously. Together, these findings uncover proresolving mechanisms for lung responses that can be disrupted in patients with disease.

Effect of ceramic layering on the fit of cobalt-chromium alloy 3-unit fixed dental prostheses fabricated by additive, soft milling, and casting technologies.

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM: The change in fit after ceramic layering of additively manufactured cobalt-chromium alloy frameworks has not been evaluated extensively. PURPOSE: The purpose of this in vitro study was to compare the fit of cobalt-chromium alloy fixed dental prostheses fabricated by different techniques before and after ceramic layering. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A cobalt-chromium alloy master model was prepared to receive a 3-unit fixed dental prosthesis. Sixty cobalt-chromium alloy frameworks (N=60) were manufactured by using 3 manufacturing techniques (n=20): selective laser melting (Mediloy S-Co), soft milling (Ceramill Sintron), and conventional casting as the control group (Girobond NB). The replica technique was used to measure the marginal and internal discrepancies. The frameworks were then layered with ceramic, and the same fit measuring procedure was repeated. The results were compared before and after ceramic layering within each group. The data were analyzed using the Levene, ANOVA, and paired-samples t tests (α=.05). RESULTS: A significant difference was found within groups before and after ceramic layering for selective laser melting (P=.006) and soft milling (P=.009) but not for conventional casting (P>.05). No statistical difference was reported in the marginal region for conventional casting group (P=.155) in contrast with the soft milling and selective laser melting groups (P=.003). Soft milling showed increased gap values in the marginal (P=.006) and occlusal regions (P=.004). CONCLUSIONS: Ceramic layering increased the discrepancy of the laser-sintered and milled frameworks, increasing the marginal discrepancy.

Fit Alteration of Presintered Co-Cr and Zirconia Multiple-Unit Prostheses After Ceramic Layering.

PURPOSE: The fit alteration after ceramic layering of soft Cobalt-Chromium (Co-Cr) and zirconia is poorly documented. This study compared the marginal and internal fit of presintered Co-Cr and zirconia three-unit fixed dental prostheses before and after ceramic veneering. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Co-Cr master model was prepared and duplicated 60 times to receive three-unit fixed dental prostheses (FDPs). Sixty dies were prepared, scanned and assigned to 3 groups (n = 20/group), to receive the FDPs made of presintered Co-Cr (CS), presintered zirconia (CZ) and cast Ni-Cr (Wi). Each framework was seated on its specific cast. A replica technique was used for marginal and internal discrepancy measurements in mesiodistal and buccolingual planes. Frameworks were ceramic veneered. Results were compared before and after ceramic layering within each group. Data were analyzed using the Levene, t test, and ANOVA (α = 0.05). RESULTS: Significant difference was found when gaps were compared within groups for CS and CZ but not for Wi. At the abutments level, significant difference was found for both premolars and molars in the buccolingual planes (p < 0.001). A multiple comparison between materials tested showed significant differences between presintered and cast Ni-Cr. No significant difference was detected between CS and CZ (p = 1.000). CONCLUSIONS: Although ceramic layering increased the discrepancy for presintered Co-Cr and zirconia, the marginal adaptation remained clinically acceptable.

15-epi-Lipoxin A4, Resolvin D2, and Resolvin D3 Induce NF-κB Regulators in Bacterial Pneumonia.

Specialized proresolving mediators (SPMs) decrease NF-κB activity to prevent excessive tissue damage and promote the resolution of acute inflammation. Mechanisms for NF-κB regulation by SPMs remain to be determined. In this study, after LPS challenge, the SPMs 15-epi-lipoxin A4 (15-epi-LXA4), resolvin D1, resolvin D2, resolvin D3, and 17-epi-resolvin D1 were produced in vivo in murine lungs. In LPS-activated human bronchial epithelial cells, select SPMs increased expression of the NF-κB regulators A20 and single Ig IL-1R-related molecule (SIGIRR). Of interest, 15-epi-LXA4 induced A20 and SIGIRR in an lipoxin A4 receptor/formyl peptide receptor 2 (ALX/FPR2) receptor-dependent manner in epithelial cells and in murine pneumonia. This SPM regulated NF-κB-induced cytokines to decrease pathogen-mediated inflammation. In addition to dampening lung inflammation, surprisingly, 15-epi-LXA4 also enhanced pathogen clearance with increased antimicrobial peptide expression. Taken together, to our knowledge these results are the first to identify endogenous agonists for A20 and SIGIRR expression to regulate NF-κB activity and to establish mechanisms for NF-κB regulation by SPMs for pneumonia resolution.

Breast Cancer Metastases to the Paranasal Sinuses Mimicking Inflammatory Sinus Disease.

INTRODUCTION: Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers in women. Metastatic disease is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality. It frequently metastasizes to bone, lungs, regional lymph nodes, liver and brain. Metastasis to the orbit and paranasal sinuses is uncommon. Patients presenting with sinus pain, nasal congestion, or visual disturbance can be misdiagnosed with an infectious process. METHODS: The authors describe 2 patients with metastatic breast cancer to the paranasal sinuses presenting with signs and symptoms of sinusitis and orbit pathology unresponsive to antibiotics. The authors discuss diagnostic strategy and perform a literature review. Both patients had biopsy-proven metastatic breast adenocarcinoma lesions, and subsequently underwent various treatment options. RESULTS: A literature review reveals that metastatic breast adenocarcinoma lesions to the paranasal sinuses are a rare entity that commonly denotes a very poor prognosis. These lesions can significantly affect one's quality of life, and can cause blurry vision, diplopia, proptosis, sinus pressure and pain, nasal congestion, mandibular misalignment or difficulty with mastication. However, early diagnosis and treatment of these lesions can lead to prolonged survival and improved quality of life. If the lesion is surgically resectable, endoscopic sinus surgery is generally considered to be the optimal treatment. However, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy can potentially play a role in controlling the symptomatology. CONCLUSION: Metastatic lesions to the paranasal sinuses are a rare entity that should be considered in the appropriate clinical setting in order to expedite the proper treatment modality for improved morbidity and mortality.

Evaluation of Marginal and Internal Fit of Presintered Co-Cr and Zirconia Three-Unit Fixed Dental Prosthesis Compared to Cast Co-Cr.

PURPOSE: The precision of soft metal processing technologies is poorly documented. This study compared marginal and internal fit of presintered cobalt-chromium (Co-Cr) and zirconia three-unit fixed dental prostheses (FDPs) to cast Co-Cr. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Three-unit FDPs were prepared on metal dies (N = 60) from typodont preparations of the maxillary right first premolar and molar. A standardized preparation of a metal-ceramic restoration was done on abutment teeth. The dies (N = 60) were scanned and divided into three groups (n = 20/group) to receive the FDP made of presintered Co-Cr (Ceramill Si), presintered zirconia (Ceramill Zi), and cast Co-Cr (Girobond NB). Each framework was seated on its specific cast. A replica technique was used for marginal and internal discrepancies measurements in mesiodistal and buccolingual planes. Data were analyzed using the Levene test, t-test, and analysis of variance (α = 0.05). RESULTS: When the overall mean discrepancy values were compared in the mesiodistal plane, a significant difference was found between Ceramill Sintron and Ceramill Zi groups (p = 0.026). No significant difference was detected between Girobond NB and Ceramill Sintron groups and between Girobond NB and Ceramill Zi groups (p = 0.537 and p = 0.569, respectively). In the buccolingual plane, there was no significant difference in the overall mean discrepancy between the three groups: CS/CZ (p = 1.000), GI/CS (p = 0.51), and GI/CZ (p = 0.87). Significant differences at several measurement points were found at the inter or intramaterial level. The increase in discrepancy values between marginal and occlusal measurements was evident for the three groups. CONCLUSIONS: Presintered three-unit FDPs fabricated from zirconia and Co-Cr exhibited internal and marginal discrepancy values similar to cast Co-Cr. A significant difference was reported between CS and CZ in mesiodistal planes. The axial and marginal differences in values for the three tested groups were below or around the 120 µm clinically acceptable threshold except for the occlusal area. When comparing first premolar to first molar, the internal and marginal discrepancies were similar with no apparent distortion of the framework after the sintering process.

Early Intravascular Events Are Associated with Development of Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome. A Substudy of the LIPS-A Clinical Trial.

RATIONALE: Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a devastating illness with limited therapeutic options. A better understanding of early biochemical and immunological events in ARDS could inform the development of new preventive and treatment strategies. OBJECTIVES: To determine select peripheral blood lipid mediator and leukocyte responses in patients at risk for ARDS. METHODS: Patients at risk for ARDS were randomized as part of a multicenter, double-blind clinical trial of aspirin versus placebo (the LIPS-A [Lung Injury Prevention Study with Aspirin] trial; NCT01504867). Plasma thromboxane B2 (TXB2), aspirin-triggered lipoxin A4 (15-epi-LXA4, ATL), and peripheral blood leukocyte number and activation were determined on enrollment and after treatment with either aspirin or placebo. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: Thirty-three of 367 subjects (9.0%) developed ARDS after randomization. Baseline ATL levels, total monocyte counts, intermediate monocyte counts, and monocyte-platelet aggregates were associated with the development of ARDS. Peripheral blood neutrophil count and monocyte-platelet aggregates significantly decreased over time. Of note, nine subjects developed ARDS after randomization yet before study drug initiation, including seven subjects assigned to aspirin treatment. Subjects without ARDS at the time of first dose demonstrated a lower incidence of ARDS with aspirin treatment. Compared with placebo, aspirin significantly decreased TXB2 and increased the ATL/TXB2 ratio. CONCLUSIONS: Biomarkers of intravascular monocyte activation in at-risk patients were associated with development of ARDS. The potential clinical benefit of early aspirin for prevention of ARDS remains uncertain. Together, results of the biochemical and immunological analyses provide a window into the early pathogenesis of human ARDS and represent potential vascular biomarkers of ARDS risk. Clinical trial registered with www.clinicaltrials.gov (NCT01504867).

Endoscopic Approach for Excision of Venous Malformation of the Orbital Apex.

INTRODUCTION: Venous malformation is a common tumor of the orbit, presenting with visual impairment and proptosis. These lesions can be excised via an external or transcranial approach, but recent advances in minimally invasive surgery have led to increased popularity of endoscopic approach. PATIENT: The authors report a 62-year-old female presenting with diplopia and proptosis, found to have a 1.7-cm venous malformation of the orbital apex. An endoscopic trans-nasal approach was undertaken for surgical resection. RESULTS: The tumor was successfully removed in a single specimen, without injury to the nearby orbital anatomy. The patient experienced resolution of her presenting symptoms 3 weeks after the procedure, with no adverse effects. A review of the literature demonstrates increasing reports of similar successful cases. CONCLUSION: A minimally invasive, endoscopic resection of orbital venous malformation is possible and provides a reasonably safe and effective approach. Further large-scale studies are needed to fully explore its outcomes relative to traditional approaches.

Marginal and internal fit of pre-sintered Co-Cr and zirconia 3-unit fixed dental prostheses as measured using microcomputed tomography.

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM: Limited information is available on the precision of new metal processing technologies. PURPOSE: The purpose of this in vitro study was to evaluate the marginal and internal fit of pre-sintered cobalt-chromium (Co-Cr) and zirconia 3-unit fixed dental prostheses using x-ray microcomputed tomography. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Three-unit fixed dental prostheses were prepared on metal dies (N=12) using a typodont model from the maxillary first premolar to the first molar. A standardized preparation with a 1.2-mm chamfer (360 degrees) and a 2-mm occlusal reduction was prepared on abutment teeth. The dies were scanned and divided into 2 groups to receive the fixed dental prostheses (n=6) made of pre-sintered Co-Cr and pre-sintered zirconia. Each framework was seated on its cast, and marginal and internal discrepancies were measured at 9 points, starting from the most distal point from the pontic for the maxillary first premolar and the first molar (points 1-4, mesial; point 5, occlusal; points 6-9, distal) of each abutment tooth using microcomputed tomography. The data were analyzed using the Levene test, t test, and ANOVA (α=.05). RESULTS: When overall mean discrepancy values were compared, no significant difference was observed between pre-sintered Co-Cr and pre-sintered zirconia (P=.085). Discrepancy values for points 1, 2, and 3 were significantly different for pre-sintered Co-Cr and pre-sintered zirconia, with the lowest mean values for point 1 and the highest for point 5. On the abutment tooth basis, for the maxillary first premolar and the first molar, a significant difference was found only in points 6 (P<.001) and 8 (P<.003) for both materials. When the discrepancies for the maxillary first premolar were considered for pre-sintered Co-Cr and pre-sintered zirconia, the mean values were significantly different only at points 1 (P<.001), 2 (P=.007), and 3 (P=.003) and were smaller for pre-sintered zirconia. For the tooth the first molar, a significant difference was observed at point 2 (P=.002) and point 3 (P=.008) for both materials, where the mean values were higher for pre-sintered Co-Cr than for pre-sintered zirconia. The pairwise comparison between points showed a significant difference between measurement points within each material (P<.05). The increase in values between points 1 and 5 was evident for both pre-sintered Co-Cr and pre-sintered zirconia materials. CONCLUSIONS: Three-unit fixed dental prostheses made of pre-sintered Co-Cr or zirconia showed similar marginal and internal discrepancy values, with the highest discrepancy values at the occlusal region in both the first premolar and first molar.

Comparison of Adhesion of a Novel Pre-sintered Cobalt-Chromium to Pre-sintered Zirconia and Cast Nickel-Chromium.

AIM: This study compared the bond strength of pre-sintered Ceramill Sintron to pre-sintered zirconia and cast nickel-chromium (NiCr). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Specimens (n = 60) (diameter: 15 mm; thickness: 2 mm) were prepared (n = 20/group) (Ceramill Sintron, Ceramill Zi, and Wirobond 99). Disks were layered with vita VM ceramic (4 mm). Specimens were randomly divided into two subgroups. Only one subgroup was thermocycled. Specimens were tested under shear strength. Energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) mapping was done on one disk of each material before and after ceramic layering. RESULTS: Failure types were mostly mixed failures. Significant difference was found between the three materials for Y and Z failure types (p-values: 0.032 and 0.010 respectively). Thermocycling had no major effect on the results reported. Considering Fmax (force-inducing bonding failure) registered, significant difference was found between the control group and milled alloys groups. No significant difference was found between Ceramill Sintron and Zi. The EDX mapping showed a net increase in the control group oxide layer, whereas only slight increase and decrease were reported for Zi and Sintron respectively. CONCLUSION: When compared with cast NiCr, novel Ceramill Sintron has higher bond strength, comparable to Ceramill Zi. Thermocycling had no major effects on the results. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Ceramic-alloy bonding is a primary factor in the prosthesis' longevity.