Publications by authors named "B Van Meerbeek"

Supramolecular functional materials can be used to overcome some of the most challenging tasks in materials science, where the dynamic nature of supramolecular interactions can be leveraged to fine-tune the properties of the material for a given task. The Lindqvist hexavanadate family of polyoxometalates (POMs) have emerged as particularly interesting candidates to be used in supramolecular materials due to their redox and Lewis acid properties that enable their application in the fields of energy conversion/storage or catalysis. Despite their promising potential, hexavanadate clusters are underrepresented in the field of supramolecular materials, mainly due to the synthetic challenges related to their inherent reactivity.

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In this multi-parameter study, the effect of diverse factors related to adhesive application on the activation of host-derived gelatinases was investigated by gelatin zymography, in-situ zymography, fluorogenic DQ-gelatin assay and micro-tensile bond-strength (μTBS) testing. Gelatin zymography disclosed the presence of gelatinases in phosphoric acid-etched dentin powder, while two gold-standard adhesives generated no measurable MMP activation. In-situ zymography revealed that the interfacial gelatinolytic activity from specimens treated with the two adhesives appeared similar as that of the EDTA negative control, indicating no detectable gelatinases were activated upon adhesive treatment.

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Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate possible cytotoxic effects of thermoplastic materials commonly used for occlusal splints and orthodontic appliances.

Methods: Seven thermoplastics were included: three variants of the Essix sheets (C+, Plus, and Tray Rite; Dentsply Sirona), three thermoplastics (Bleach Heavy, Splint, and X-Heavy; Cavex Holland) and Invisalign (Align Technology). Cylindrical specimens (n = 24; 10 mm diameter) were incubated in cell culture medium for 24 h and 14 days.

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The coloring process of monolithic dental zirconia caused considerable debate on the possible effects of different coloring methods. The main objective of this study was to investigate the influence of pigments in 3 multilayer 5-mol% yttria partially stabilized zirconia (5Y-PSZ) disks (Lava Esthetic A2 [Zr-AGG_A2] and Bleach [Zr-AGG_BL], both 3M Oral Care, and Katana STML A2 [Zr-NoAGG], Kuraray Noritake). The influence of pigment addition on the translucency parameter (TP), fracture toughness, Vickers hardness, biaxial strength, and hydrothermal stability was assessed and correlated with the microstructure and phase composition.

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Oral bacteria cause tooth caries and periodontal disease. Much research is being conducted to prevent both major oral diseases by rendering dental materials' antimicrobial potential. However, such antimicrobial materials are regarded as 'combination' products and face high hurdles for regulatory approval.

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