Search

OBJECTIVE: The effects of cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) on serum neuron-specific enolase (NSE) levels in patients without cognitive dysfunction and neurological deficit are not yet clarified. This study was designed to see the sole effect of extracorporeal circulation on serum NSE levels in patients without any clinically observed neurological deficit. METHODS: Thirty-two consecutive patients undergoing first elective open-heart surgery were included in this prospective study. Neurological status was assessed by clinical examination before surgery, and on the postoperative first and second days. Blood samples were obtained after anesthesia induction before the administration of heparin, within the first hour post CPB, 24 and 48 hours after the end of operation. Each blood sample was assayed for hemoglobin (Hb), hematocrit and NSE levels. The Friedman's Test to compare the serial measurements of NSE and hemoglobin samples and the post-hoc Tukey test for paired comparisons between pre and postoperative values were applied Pearson correlation test was used to examine the correlation between NSE concentration and aortic cross-clamping time and CPB time, age, postoperative hematocrit and hemoglobin levels and the amount of blood products transfusion. RESULTS: There were no significant differences between NSE values at any sampling time: 11.6+/-8.0 mg/dL, 8.7+/-4.7 mg/dL, 9.3+/-5.4 mg/dL and 8.9+/-5.8 mg/dL, measured preoperatively, at the end of operation, on the first and second post-operative days, respectively. There was no significant correlation between NSE values with any of the compared variables including CPB time. CONCLUSION: This study demonstrated that the possible damage of CPB on central nervous system and on blood cells did not reach to the extent of causing any significant increase in serum NSE levels in non-complicated patients undergoing open-heart surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To compare the efficacy of chlorhexidine (CHX) and amine fluoride (AF) toothpastes on oral flora in fixed orthodontic treatment patients., Methods: Thirteen patients were given toothpaste containing AF, and 12 patients were given toothpaste containing CHX. Microbial and periodontal records were taken before, 1 week, and 5 weeks after the bonding procedure. Gingival index (GI), plaque index (PI), and bleeding on probing (BOP) values were recorded by the same expert calibrated before the study. Biofilm samples were taken, and then colony counts of the samples were evaluated. Whether the variable values obtained in the groups at the time of measurement were different was examined by Nonparametric Analysis of Longitudinal Data in Factorial Experiments-Nonparametric Tests for the F1_LD_F1 design for longitudinal data., Results: Gender distribution was similar in the study groups (χ 2  = 1.944; p = 0.163). The mean age of the patients did not differ in the groups (t = 0.502; p = 0.620). In general, the variable values analysed within the scope of the study did not show significant differences between groups and time (p > 0.05). When the pairwise interactions were analysed, it was found that there was a significant difference only for PI values (F = 3.411; p = 0.035)., Conclusions: While there were no significant differences observed in BOP, GI, and S. mutans levels and changes in IgA and IgE values between toothpastes containing CHX and AF, the PI index of CHX-containing toothpastes exhibited a notably lower level. Both AF- and CHX-containing toothpastes can be used for managing biofilm, controlling bacteria, and minimising gingivitis in subjects undergoing fixed orthodontic treatment., (© 2024 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) is one of the most common and iatrogenic complications of in vitro fertilization therapy, which is an exaggerated response to excess hormones resulting in the development of a large number of maturing follicles. Although the complications of and reasons for the condition are well known, the overall histopathological effects on systemic organs and the extent of the damage have not been fully elucidated. Besides, the mechanism that underlies the situation is not very well known. The aim of the present work was to analyse the histopathological effects of OHSS on reproductive (uterus and ovary) and vital organs (liver and kidney) and the possible role of the VEGF-PKA pathway in triggering the condition. Balb/c mice were used to establish an OHSS model. The OHSS group were injected with overdose PMSG while the normal responder group were injected with an optimal dose. Histopathological evaluation was utilised in the liver, kidney, ovary, and uterus stained with hematoxylin and eosin, Masson's trichrome, and periodic acid-Schiff stain. The expression profiles of VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor), PKA (protein kinase A), and p-PKA (an activated form of PKA) were detected with immunohistochemistry and Western blotting. OHSS was demonstrated to have a negative histopathological effect on all of the organs analysed. These effects were associated with an overall increase in the expression levels of VEGF, PKA, and p-PKA. OHSS has a serious histopathological negative effect on the systemic and reproductive organs and is proven to affect overall health, and thus should be considered a dangerous complication during ART techniques. The activation of the VEGF-PKA pathway, which is indicated by the expression levels of VEGF, PKA, and p-PKA, is demonstrated to accompany this complication, which should be further elucidated to understand the mechanisms underlying the condition., (© 2021 S. Karger AG, Basel.)

Aim: This in vivo study was designed to compare the antimicrobial effect of toothpastes containing fluoride, xylitol, or xylitol-probiotic on Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus in 13-15-year-old children., Materials and Methods: The study consisted of 60 pediatric patients who were randomly divided into three groups of 20 each. Group 1 recieved fluoride toothpaste (Colgate Max Fresh), group 2 used xylitol toothpaste (Xyliwhite), and group 3 used xylitol-probiotic toothpaste (PerioBiotic). Participants were asked to use the allocated dentifrice two times a day for 6 weeks. We performed tests on the saliva samples at the beginning of the study and after 6 weeks' duration following the use of toothpaste. The Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 15 software and chi-square test were used for data analysis., Results: PerioBiotic toothpaste and Colgate Max Fresh toothpaste showed significant reduction in the number of participants who, prior to commencing the study, were diagnosed with a high number of cariogenic bacteria. On the contrary, no significant changes were observed with respect to the number of participants with a very high number of S. mutans and Lactobacillus on Xyliwhite toothpaste group., Conclusion: In the light of the data obtained in this in-vivo study, a new innovational aspect has been reached in the use of probiotics to ensure the balance between bacterial flora in the oral cavity. In daily routine, the administration of probiotics to children is difficult. The toothpaste can be used as a vehicle to transport probiotics to children's mouth., Competing Interests: There are no conflicts of interest.

Purpose: The present prospective, randomised, placebo-controlled, clinical trial was designed to evaluate the clinical effects of a commercially available dentifrice containing fluoride, xylitol or xylitol-probiotic on the decrease of plaque and gingival inflammation in children between 13 and 15 years of age., Materials and Methods: Forty-eight adolescents were randomly grouped into three groups of n = 16 each: study group A received xylitol (Xyliwhite) toothpaste; study group B received xylitol-probiotic (Periobiotic) toothpaste; and the control group C received fluoride (Colgate Max Fresh) toothpaste. The subjects were instructed to use the dentifrice determined and a modified Bass brushing technique twice a day for two minutes over a 6-week perioed. Clinical evaluation was performed using a gingival index and a plaque index at baseline and at the end of the 6-week period., Results: From day 0 to 42, reductions in the plaque index were statistically significant in all groups, Colgate Max Fresh, PerioBiotic and Xyliwhite (p-values 0.001, 0.001 and 0.035, respectively), but reductions in the gingival index were statistically significant only in the Colgate Max Fresh and PerioBiotic groups (both with p = 0.001), not in the Xyliwhite group (p = 0.116). PerioBiotic toothpaste was found to be better than Xyliwhite and Colgate Max Fresh toothpastes at reducing plaque and gingival scores. However, statistically significant differences with PerioBiotic and Colgate Max Fresh toothpaste were not observed., Conclusion: It was concluded that PerioBiotic was an all-round dentifrice that produced a significant reduction in both gingivitis and plaque.

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the effect of acidulated phosphate fluoride (APF) gel and casein phosphopeptide/amorphous calciumphosphate (CPP-ACP) on the dental erosion produced by carbonated soft drink in primary teeth., Study Design: This study evaluated by an in vitro model the effect of APF gel and CPP-ACP on the dental enamel previously subjected to erosive challenge with carbonated soft drink. Sixty sound human primary molars were prepared by embedding the crown sections in acrylic resin blocks leaving the enamel surfaces exposed. The surface roughness of the enamel was measured with prophilometry at baseline. Specimens were randomly divided into three treatment groups (n:20): artificial saliva, CPP-ACP, 1.23% APF gel. All specimens were then exposed to an erosive challenge of carbonated soft drink and artificial saliva for 20 cycles of 20 seconds each. Demineralization-remineralization cycles was repeated twice at eight-hour intervals and roughness values were measured. Enamel samples were treated with artificial saliva, CPP-ACP, 1.23% APF gel applied for 10 min after erosive challenge. The arithmetic average roughness (Ra) readings were recorded after remineralization agents were applied., Results: The mean surface roughness in all groups increased significantly after erosion process and decreased after remineralization treatment. After treatment, the mean surface roughness of the 1.23% APF gel group was significantly less than the other groups and the mean surface roughness of the artificial saliva group was significantly more than the other groups. 1.23% APF gel showed the highest protective effect against erosive enamel loss., Conclusions: Under the conditions of this study, artificial saliva, CPP-ACP and 1.23% APF treatments were able to reduce erosive enamel loss produced by carbonated soft drink in primary teeth. However, 1.23% APF gel showed the highest protective effect against erosive enamel loss.

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate and to compare clinical and radiographic outcomes of 4 materials (formocresol, mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA), Portland cement and enamel matrix derivative) using in primary teeth pulpotomies., Study Design: Sixty-five patients aged 5-9 years (32 female, 33 male) were included in this study. A total of 140 primary first and second molars with deep caries were treated with pulpotomy. All teeth were then restored with stainless steel crowns. The treated teeth were evaluated clinically and radiographically at 3, 6, 12, 18 and 24 months., Results: At 24 months, the clinical success rates of formocresol, MTA, Portland cement, and enamel matrix derivative were 96.9%, 100%, 93.9%, and 93.3%, respectively. The corresponding radiographic success rates were 84.4%, 93.9%, 86.7% and 78.1%, respectively., Conclusion: Although there were no statistically significant differences in clinical and radiographic success rates among the 4 groups, MTA appears to be superior to formocresol, Portland cement, and enamel matrix derivative as a pulpotomy agent in primary teeth.

Objective: We aimed to compare the effects of general and spinal anesthesia on cognitive functions in pregnant patients undergoing elective cesarean section., Material and Methods: Seventy-five American Society of Anesthesiology (ASA) I pregnant patients aged 18-40 years who were scheduled to undergo elective cesarean section were divided into three groups. Group sevoflurane (Group S) and Group desflurane (Group D) were administered general anesthesia, whereas Group regional (Group R) was administered spinal anesthesia. Hemodynamic variables, bispectral index, oxygen saturation were measured at baseline, after induction, spinal injection, and during the surgery. Extubation and eye opening time and Aldrete scores were recorded. Mini-mental state examination, Trieger dot test, and clock drawing test were performed one day before the surgery and repeated at the 1(st), 3(rd) and 24(th) h postoperatively., Results: There was no statistically significant difference among the groups in terms of demographic data and duration of surgery (p>0.05). Durations of anesthesia for Group S, Group R, and Group D were significantly different (p<0.05). Duration of anesthesia for Group R was significantly longer than for Groups S and D (p<0.0001). Aldrete recovery scores and total remifentanil consumption were significantly higher in Group D than in Group S (p<0.05). Extubation and eye opening times were significantly shorter in Group D than in Group S (p<0.01). According to TDT, statistical significance was found among Group S, Group R, and Group D at the 3rd and 24th h postoperatively (p<0.05), and there was a statistically high significant difference in Groups S and R (p<0.0001)., Conclusion: We concluded that general anesthesia with sevoflurane or desflurane and spinal anesthesia had no effects on cognitive functions in patients undergoing cesarean operation.

This study describes the treatment of an immature permanent tooth with periapical lesion which was treated with regenerative approach using platelet rich plasma (PRP). The root canal of immature human permanent tooth with periapical lesion was gently debrided of necrotic tissue and disinfected with 2.5% NaOCl, and then medicated with triple antibiotic paste comprised of ciprofloxacin, metronidazole, and tetracycline. When the tooth was asymptomatic, PRP and mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) were placed into the root canal. Six months after PRP treatment, radiographical examination revealed resolution of the radiolucency and progressive thickening of the root wall and apical closure. Our findings suggest that PRP can be used for the treatment of immature permanent teeth with periapical lesion, as part of a regenerative endodontic treatment procedure.

Limb-girdle muscular dystrophies are a group of disorders with wide genetic and clinical heterogeneity. These disorders may lead to an increase in life-threatening complications related to surgery and anaesthesia. In this case, the anaesthetic management of a child with limb-girdle muscular dystrophy is presented.

Objective: The aims of this retrospective study were to determine compliance with dental and chronological ages and to analyze the relationships between dental age and orthodontic sagittal anomalies., Materials and Methods: A total of 221 subjects between the ages of 7 and 15.9 years (165 girls and 156 boys) were included in the study. The dental age of seven left mandibular teeth was assessed according to the Demirjian method. The maxillary protrusion, mandibular protrusion, maxillo-mandibular and vertical plane angles were measured from cephalometric films., Results: The mean difference between the chronological age and dental age in female patients was 0.94 years and 0.33 years in male patients (P < 0.01). No differences between the sagittal classification groups were found. There was no relationship between dental age and the SNA° or the GoGn-SN°. A statistically significant negative relationship was found between dental age and the SNB° and there was a significant linear relationship between dental age and the ANB°., Conclusion: Dental age in girls and boys has been estimated to be more advanced than chronological age in all classes and dental maturation advanced in cases with a tendency to develop Class II malocclusions.

The congenital granular cell tumor (CGCT) is quite scarce at the infant. The patient, who has a 2-day-old female newborn, was admitted to the Department of Pediatric Dentistry. Baby had a smooth surfaced, non-fixated mass, found on the anterior part of the mandibular alveole, developing from the gingival mucosa. Clinical examination showed a 1 cm × 1 cm × 1.8 cm pedunculated, regular, pink colorful soft-tissue gob on the alveolar crest to the left side of the mandible. The gob was removed on the seventh postnatal day under general anesthesia. Then, the specimen was evaluated histopathologically. Post-operative recovery and surgical site healing was satisfactory. The CGCT is a rare, degenerative or reactive lesion of the oral cavity. The mass may surgically remove if the diagnosis is not definite clinically and this can lead therapeutic effect.

The presence of supernumerary teeth, also known as hyperdontia, is the condition of having teeth in addition to the regular number of teeth. The occurrence of multiple supernumerary teeth is often found in association with syndromes such as Gardner syndrome, Anderson-Fabry disease, Ellis-van Creveld syndrome, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, incontinentia pigmenti, and Tricho-rhino-phalangeal syndrome. Only a few examples of nonsyndromic multiple supernumerary teeth have been reported in literature. In this report, we present the unusual case and 9-year follow up of a non-syndrome female patient with bilateral supernumerary teeth that occurred with an interval of several years.

Dental trauma is relatively common and can occur secondary to sporting injuries, falls, fights, or accidents. According to the International Association of Dental Traumatology, 50% of children experience dental trauma between the ages of 8 to 12. There are many options for endodontic and restorative treatments of traumatized teeth. Ribbond, which was introduced in the market in 1992, consists of bondable, reinforced ultra-high strength polyethylene fibers. Ribbond may be an option for the treatment of traumatized teeth because of its aesthetic properties; absence of additional tooth preparation; and its high resistance to traction, which allows it to easily adapt to tooth morphology. In this report, we describe endodontic and restorative treatments using Ribbond for 3 female patients with horizontal complicated crown fractures of the maxillary incisors.

The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and traumatic dental injuries in children. A total of 194 children aged 7-15 years participated in this study. Fifty-seven traumatic injuries to permanent teeth were observed in 33 children. Although a statistically significant difference was not found (p= .848), the rate of incidence was higher in the group with ADHD (17.5%) than in the control group (16.5%). The maxillary right central incisors accounted for nearly half of all injured teeth, while the maxillary central incisors represented the most frequently injured teeth. Enamel fracture was the most common type of dental injury observed. The incidence of enamel fracture was higher in the control group (66.7%) than in the subjects with ADHD (43.3%). There was a significant association between the occurrence of traumatic dental injury and the presence of an overjet greater than 3 mm (p= .020)., (© 2012 Special Care Dentistry Association and Wiley Periodicals, Inc.)

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to evaluate oral health care knowledge and behavior of women during pregnancy., Subjects and Methods: The study population consisted of 351 mothers with children under 3 months of age who presented at Gülhane Medical Academy's Department of Pediatrics for a routine child check-up. Mothers were asked to complete a questionnaire about their knowledge and behavior regarding dental care during pregnancy., Results: All the women who participated in the study had dental insurance, and most of them had high levels of education. Of the 351 mothers, 263 (75%) had heard about possible connections between oral health and pregnancy outcome, and 165 (47%) believed tooth and periodontal problems could affect pregnancy outcome. However, 256 (73%) women still believed that calcium would be drawn out of their teeth by the developing baby, and 151 (43%) believed in the erroneous statement 'A tooth for a baby'. 241 (68.7%) women had experienced oral health problems during pregnancy; however, only 48 (13.7%) visited a dentist during their pregnancy., Conclusions: Turkish women, despite having knowledge that adverse pregnancy events may be related to dental and periodontal problems, did not seek oral health care during pregnancy. This suggests the need to better educate medical providers to inform pregnant women to obtain oral health care during pregnancy., (Copyright © 2011 S. Karger AG, Basel.)

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of the dmft-DMFT indexes and the oral hygiene status of 136 individuals attending a special school for the disabled., Methods: Participants were grouped according to disability [Mental Retardation (MR), Cerebral Palsy (CP), Autistic Disorder (AD), Down Syndrome (DS), Other (OTH)] and age [2-6 years (n=24), 7-12 years (50 children) and 13+ years (62 children]. Caries examinations were carried out in accordance with WHO criteria and oral cleanliness was evaluated by visually assessing the presence of plaque on teeth., Results: The age range of patients was 2-26 years (mean age: 11.89±5.19 years). Mean dmft and DMFT scores by age group were as follows: 2-6 years: dmft=2.04±2.24; 7-12 years: dmft=2.24±2.60, DMFT=0.98±2.58; 13+years: DMFT=2.68±2.91. Overall, 15.4% of children had no caries or fillings. While dmft and DMFT levels (P>.05) did not vary significantly by type of disability, oral cleanliness did. Children with autism were observed to maintain the best oral hygiene and those with mental retardation (MR), the poorest., Conclusions: It is important for the dentist to concentrate on a preventive approach and provide proper dental education to parents of disabled individuals. Among the children with disabilities, more attention should be paid to the oral hygiene of MR group.

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to assess the incidence of traumatic dental injury among Turkish children and young adults with autism and compare this to the general population of Turkish children and young adults without autism., Methods: This study was comprised of 186 children and young adults (138 males and 48 females), 93 with autism (autistic group, or AG) and 93 without autism (control group, or CG). Dental injuries were classified according to drawings and texts based on the WHO classification system, as modified by Andreasen and Andreasen., Results: The rate of injury was higher among the AG (23%) than the CG (15%). The difference between the 2 groups, however, was not statistically significant (P<.19). The most common type of dental injury was enamel fracture. The rate of enamel fracture was higher in the CG (59%) than in the AG (33%), and the distribution of types of traumatic injury differed significantly between the AG and CG (P>.01)., Conclusions: There were no significant differences in the rates of traumatic dental injuries among children and young adults with and without autistic disorder. The most frequently injured teeth were the permanent maxillary central incisors, and the frequency of injury to these teeth differed significantly (P>.01) between AG (56%) and CG (91%). The most common type of dental injury, enamel fracture, was more common in CG (59%) than AG (33%). The distribution of types of traumatic dental injuries differed significantly between the 2 groups (P>.01).

Dental adhesives can alter the contractility of vascular tissue via different mechanisms. The aim of this study was to investigate and compare the vascular action of two self-etch adhesive systems, Clearfil SE Bond (CSEB) and Clearfil S(3) Bond (CS3B). Responses of isolated rat thoracic aorta rings were recorded isometrically by force displacement transducers. Following pre-contraction of aorta rings, relaxations to the independent and mixed components of CSEB and CS3B were recorded in the absence and presence of nitric oxide synthase (NOS) inhibitor (N(omega)-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (N-LAME)), cyclooxygenase (COX) inhibitor (indomethacin) and K+ channel inhibitors (tetraethylammonium, glibenclamide and 4-aminopyridine). We also tested the effects of CSEB and CS3B in endothelium-intact and -denuded rat thoracic aorta rings. To investigate the Ca2+-channel antagonistic effect of adhesive components, concentration-response curves to CaCl2 were obtained in the absence and presence of the components. The primer, the bond, and the mixture of CSEB and CS3B elicited concentration-dependent relaxations. Mechanical rubbing of the endothelium did not significantly modify the extent of vasorelaxation induced by the test materials. The vasorelaxant effect was mediated neither by NOS and COX inhibition nor by the tested K+ channel antagonists. Mechanical removal of the endothelium did not alter the vasodilatory effect induced by the self-etch adhesives. Both CSEB and CS3B significantly inhibited the contractions induced by CaCl2. These results demonstrate the vasodilatory effect induced by the self-etch adhesive systems through a Ca2+-antagonistic effect.

Introduction: Our aim in this study was to investigate the frequency, distribution, sex differences, and characteristics of supernumerary teeth in a referred Turkish population., Methods: A total of 2599 patients' panoramic radiographs (1360 girls, 1239 boys) were evaluated, including children in both the mixed and the permanent dentitions. Their mean age was 8.6 +/- 0.23 years. Number, location, classification, side, and impaction of supernumerary teeth were evaluated. Furthermore, the development of these teeth was evaluated., Results: Eighty-four supernumerary teeth were found on 69 radiographs; 9 were deciduous and 75 were permanent teeth. Most supernumerary teeth were in the premaxillary region (67%). Mesiodens (n = 43) was the most frequent supernumerary tooth (51.2%). This was followed by the maxillary lateral incisor (15.5%), the mandibular premolar (14.3%), the maxillary canine (9.5%), the maxillary premolar (6%), the mandibular lateral incisor (2.4%), and the mandibular canine (1.2%). Sixty-two (73.8%) supernumerary teeth were impacted. The male-female ratio was 1.13:1, which was not statistically significant., Conclusions: The prevalence of supernumerary teeth in Turkish children was 2.7% in this study.

Elimination of microbial contamination from the root canal system is a precondition for successful root canal treatment. In this regard, mechanical instrumentation, irrigation, and intracanal medication are all important. This case report assesses the efficacy of a triple antibiotic paste consisting of metronidazole, ciprofloxacin, and minocycline in the disinfection of immature teeth with apical periodontitis. An 8-year-old girl presented at the Department of Pediatric Dentistry for the evaluation of right and left maxillary central incisors with crown fractures and luxation. The right central incisor had a large periapical lesion, which was treated by filling the canal with a ciprofloxacin/metronidazole/minocycline paste. After 4 months, the patient had no symptoms, and a radiograph showed the radiolucency had completely resolved. At the 1-year follow-up, a periapical radiograph showed complete root development and apical closure. These results indicate that triple antibiotic paste is effective in disinfecting immature teeth with periapical lesions.

The aim of this study was to identify the types and etiologies of dento-alveolar injuries among patients who were treated for injuries to maxillary and/or mandibular permanent teeth at the Gulhane Medical Academy, Department of Pediatric Dentistry, Center of Dental Sciences in Ankara, Turkey to provide a basis for determining optimal treatment approaches and educational needs. From a total of 4956 children aged 6-12 years (mean age: 8.91 +/- 1.95) applying to the Center, 472 children (9.5%) were found to have suffered dental injuries during a period of 2 years. Injuries were classified according to drawings and texts based on the WHO classification system, as modified by Andreasen and Andreasen. Injury rates were highest among children age 6 and ages 8-10. The most frequently injured permanent teeth were the maxillary central incisors (88.2%), and the maxillary right central permanent incisor made up 47.2% of all injured teeth. The most common cause of dental trauma was falling while walking or running (40.3%). Most injuries involved a single tooth (64.8%). The most common type of injury was enamel fracture (44.6%). There was a significant difference in gender, where boys more often suffered from a dental hard tissue and pulp injury than girls (P = 0.019), whereas there was no difference in gender (P = 0.248) in the distribution of periodontal injuries. Injuries were found to occur more frequently during the summer (P < 0.001). Children with increased overjet were 2.19 times more likely to have dental injuries than other children. Considering that the incidence of traumatic dental injury is highest among children ages 6 and ages 8-10 as well as the fact that patients with increased overjet are more prone to dental trauma, preventive orthodontic treatment in early mixed dentition may play an important role in reducing traumatic dental injuries.

Objective: Owing to the anatomic proximity between the root of the primary tooth and its permanent successor, trauma to primary dentition may cause developmental disturbances in unerupted permanent teeth., Study Design: This report presents the findings of a prospective 7-year study examining developmental disturbances of permanent teeth attributed to intrusive injury of their primary predecessors based on initial patient records and clinical observation. Intrusive injuries were diagnosed and grouped according to World Health Organization classifications, as modified by Andreasen et al., Results: A total of 78 children (aged 12-48 months) presenting with intrusive trauma to 138 primary incisors were available for follow-up examinations. The most frequently intruded primary teeth were maxillary incisors (93.47%), with the right central primary incisor representing 41.3% of all intruded teeth. In 23 patients, 36 teeth were scheduled for extraction during the first visit. During the course of follow-up, 41 of the remaining teeth exhibited post-traumatic consequences, including pulp necrosis (78.0%), internal and/or external root resorption (14.6%), ankylosis (4.9%), and obliteration of the pulp canal (2.5%). In 74 permanent successors (53.6%), >or=1 of the following developmental disturbances were observed: enamel hypoplasia (28.3%), crown and/or root deformation (16.7%), and ectopic eruption (16.7%)., Conclusion: There was no significant correlation between age of intrusion and frequency of subsequent developmental disturbances (P > .05).

The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the effects of two self-etch adhesive materials on the induction of oxidative stress and production of transforming growth factor-beta1 (TGF-beta1) and bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP-2) by cultured human gingival fibroblasts (HGF). Inflammation-free attached gingiva was obtained from healthy donors under informed consent. Following 24- and 72-h exposure of HGF to two different elutes of the test materials, cell viability was determined using the 3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. Lipid peroxidation, a major indicator of oxidative stress, was measured by the thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS) assay. TGF-beta1 and BMP-2 levels in cell-free culture media were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Cell viability of the test groups was significantly lower than those of control at 24 and 72 h (P < 0.001), but showed an increase at 72 h (P < 0.001). The TBARS levels of both test groups were significantly greater than that of control (P < 0.05), and displayed similar values at 72 h (P > 0.05). For both materials, the levels of TGF-beta1 and BMP-2 were significantly greater than that of control (P < 0.05). Both test groups showed increased TGF-beta1 levels. These results indicate that the tested self-etch adhesives might be capable of inducing production of TGF-beta1 and BMP-2 in cultured HGF, despite their cytotoxic and oxidative stress-producing potential., ((c) Koninklijke Brill NV, Leiden, 2009)

The present study was conducted to determine the effect on the distribution of stress with the use of short-post cores and over restorations composed of different materials. The restorative materials used were namely two different composite resin materials (Valux Plus and Tetric Flow), a polyacid-modified resin material (Dyract AP), and a woven polyethylene fiber combination (Ribbond Fiber + Bonding agent + Tetric Flow). Finite element analysis (FEA) was used to develop a model for the maxillary primary anterior teeth. A masticatory force of 100 N was applied at 148 degrees to the incisal edge of the palatal surface of the crown model. Stress distributions and stress values were compared using von Mises criteria. The tooth model was assumed to be isotropic, homogeneous, elastic, and asymmetrical. It was observed that the highest stress usually occurred in the cervical area of the tooth when Tetric Flow was used as the short-post core and over restoration material. The same maximum stress value was also obtained when Ribbond fiber + Tetric Flow material was used for the short-post core. The results of FEA showed that the mechanical properties and elastic modulus of the restorative material influenced the stresses generated in enamel, dentin, and restoration when short-post core restorations were loaded incisally. Resin-based restorative materials with higher elastic moduli were found to be unsuitable as short-post core materials in endodontically treated maxillary primary anterior teeth.

Mucopolysaccharidosis type I (Hurler syndrome, MPS I-H) is an autosomal recessive inborn error of metabolism due to deficient alpha-L-iduronidase enzyme activity and is characterized by accumulation of incompletely degraded glycosaminoglycans that generally lead to impairment of organ and body functions. This report presents oral, dental, and radiographic findings in a boy who presented with MPS I-H. Nine of the patient's primary teeth were extracted and investigated using scanning electron microscopy, x-ray diffraction analysis, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Compared with the teeth of otherwise healthy patients, MPS I-H-affected dentin was characterized by extremely narrow dentinal tubules, whose direction followed an irregular wave-like pattern. The enamel-dentin junction was defective, as evidenced by microgaps, and the enamel displayed irregular arrangement of prisms. The additional novel observation was made that the protein structure of enamel and dentin changed in MPS I-H-affected teeth. Also, an increase was observed in the relative mineral/matrix ratio of MPS I-H-affected dentin, indicating that its protein content had decreased in comparison with normal dentin.

The ability of plants to repair DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) is essential for growth and fertility. The Arabidopsis DSB repair proteins AtRAD50 and AtMRE11 form part of an evolutionarily conserved complex that, in Saccharomyces cerevisiae and mammals, includes a third component termed XRS2 and NBS1, respectively. The MRN complex (MRX in yeast) has a direct role in DSB repair and is also required for DNA damage signaling and checkpoint activation in a pathway mediated by the protein kinase ATM. This study characterizes Arabidopsis and maize NBS1 orthologues that share conserved protein motifs with human NBS1. Both plant NBS1 proteins interact with the corresponding MRE11 orthologues, and deletion analysis of AtNBS1 defines a region towards the C-terminus (amino acids 465-500) that is required for interaction with AtMRE11. Arabidopsis lines homozygous for a T-DNA insertional mutation in AtNBS1 display hypersensitivity to the DNA cross-linking reagent mitomycin C, and this phenotype can be rescued by complementation with the wild-type gene, consistent with a function for AtNBS1 in plant DSB repair. Analysis of atnbs1-1 atatm double mutants revealed a role for AtNBS1 in meiotic recombination. While atatm mutants produce reduced seed numbers, plants deficient in both AtATM and AtNBS1 are completely infertile. Cytological analysis of these double mutants revealed incomplete chromosome pairing and synapsis in meiotic prophase, and extensive chromosome fragmentation in metaphase I and subsequent stages. These results suggest a novel role for AtNBS1 that is independent of AtATM-mediated signaling and functions in the very early stages of meiosis.

Rosai-Dorfman disease (RDD) is an unusual clinical entity characterized by benign pseudolymphomatous proliferation with significant histiocytic infiltration. In the present paper, extranodal RDD of the major salivary glands causing salivary hypofunction and the results of salivary gland scintigraphy and ultrasound are presented in two siblings. Case 1: a 10-year-old boy with bilateral painless masses around the parotid and submandibular glands was referred. Ultrasound examination showed bilateral, well-defined, hypoechoic solid mass lesions within both parotid glands with minimal normal parenchyma in the upper poles. Both submandibular glands were markedly hypoechoic and heterogeneous. Mass lesions within the parotid glands appeared as cold lesions with regular contours on scintigraphy. Dynamic images showed normal uptake and normal response to secretion in the upper poles of the parotid glands, corresponding with ultrasonographically normal parenchyma. Both submandibular glands showed markedly diminished uptake and secretion. Case 2: a 9-year-old boy presented with mass lesions around the submandibular glands. Ultrasound examination showed normal parotid glands and markedly hypoechoic and heterogeneous submandibular glands. Salivary gland scintigraphy showed normal uptake and secretion of parotid glands with markedly diminished uptake and secretion in both submandibular glands. There were severe carious lesions in both patients due to salivary hypofunction. Treatments of the two patients' teeth were performed. Major salivary gland involvement of RDD is important for dentists as it may cause xerostomia and can mimic dental abscess. Functional evaluation of salivary glands with scintigraphy, besides radiological and pathological techniques, will help to explain whether salivary glands are affected or not and improve the diagnostic effectiveness.

While dental findings of both rickets and osteopetrosis have been reported, there is no published report on the oral and dental findings of osteopetrorickets. In this paper dental findings of osteopetrorickets were presented. A two-year-old female child was referred to the pedodontics clinic for dental examinations before bone marrow transplantation. Her teeth showed severe mobility and the eruption of the teeth were delayed. The dental findings of the patient were different from that of osteopetrosis and rickets.

Recent data from the medical literature indicates that cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) plays a key role in the production of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), a glycoprotein that has the ability to increase the permeability of blood vessels and to induce angiogenesis. This study was undertaken to investigate the immunohistological co-expression of COX-2 and VEGF in inflamed human pulp, in conjunction with the expression of CD34, a transmembrane glycoprotein expressed in endothelial cells. Pulp tissue of extracted carious human third molars with a recent history of spontaneous pain were collected and processed for immunostaining of COX-2, VEGF, and CD34 using the biotin-streptoavidin method. Healthy pulp samples served as controls. COX-2 expression was not observed in healthy pulps, whereas all inflamed pulps demonstrated COX-2-expressing cells. Similarly, VEGF was not expressed in normal pulp tissue, but was strongly positive in inflamed pulps. CD34 was expressed in the endothelium of both normal and inflamed pulp tissues. Co-expression of COX-2 and VEGF in all consecutive sections of inflamed pulps could be suggestive of a possible release of VEGF via a COX-2-dependent pathway.

Objective: The purpose of this study was to assess the serum concentrations of those trace elements that act as a component of oxidative stress in COPD patients. Clinically stable COPD outpatients (n = 26) and healthy controls (n = 24) were studied., Methodology: Serum concentrations of copper (Cu) and zinc (Zn) were determined using a Varian Spectra AA220 flame atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Serum concentration of iron (Fe) was measured by the ferene assay, using a commercially available kit (IL Test Iron) with the ILAb 900 autoanalyser. The lipid peroxidation product malondialdehyde (MDA) in serum samples was measured spectrophotometrically in terms of TBARS (thiobarbituric acid reactive substances)., Results: The serum MDA concentration in COPD patients was found to be similar to the control group (0.68 +/- 0.15 nmol/mL vs 0.62 +/- 0.13 nmol/mL, respectively; P= 0.163). The serum concentrations of the trace elements in both study groups were in the normal reference range. There was no difference in Fe concentration between COPD patients and the control group (0.81 +/- 0.38 micro g/mL vs 0.92 +/- 0.41 micro g/mL; P= 0.360). Copper concentrations were higher (1.06 +/- 0.26 microg/mL vs 0.92 +/- 0.19 microg/mL; P <0.040); while zinc was lower in the COPD group compared to the controls (0.83 +/- 0.25 microg/mL vs 1.03 +/- 0.23 microg/mL; P= 0.006). Serum Zn concentrations were lower in the severe COPD patients compared to mild-moderate COPD patients (P = 0.038)., Conclusion: The results of this study indicate that there are alterations in serum concentrations of trace elements in COPD patients, suggesting that they may play a role in the pathophysiology of this disease by virtue of their role in oxidative stress. We recommend further studies on the role of trace elements in the pathophysiology of COPD, their association with markers of oxidant/antioxidant status and on the clinical significance of their deficiency.

Objective: COPD is characterized by significant chronic inflammation that is evident not only in the pulmonary compartment but also in the circulation. Peripheral blood features of COPD include markers of oxidative stress and altered circulating levels of inflammatory mediators and acute-phase proteins. The presence of a systemic inflammatory response may influence quality of life by giving rise to weight loss, muscle wasting and tissue depletion. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the determinants of body mass and the value of serum tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha) as a marker of weight loss in COPD patients, and to correlate this with the burden of oxidative stress as measured by serum malonyldialdehyde (MDA) levels., Methodology: Fifty-two male COPD patients (mean age 62.55 +/- 6.81 years) were studied. After anthropometric measurements and standard spirometry, serum TNF-alpha concentration was measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay using an hTNF-alpha kit, and MDA was studied spectrophotometrically using the Yoshioka-Kawada method., Results: The mean BMI was 24.82 +/- 3.46. BMI was lower than normal (< 19) in six patients. Mean serum TNF-alpha concentration was 14.99 +/- 8.98 pg/mL and MDA was 0.93 +/- 0.13 nmol/L. There was no significant correlation between serum MDA and TNF concentrations (P = 0.140). Serum TNF-alpha and MDA concentrations were not correlated with severity of airflow obstruction or degree of hypoxaemia (P > 0.05 for all). BMI was negatively correlated with burden of smoking (pack-years) (r = -0.392, P= 0.004); but not with pulmonary function, degree of hypoxaemia, serum TNF-alpha or MDA levels. BMI was significantly lower in current smokers than ex-smokers (P = 0.041); however, serum MDA and TNF levels were similar in both groups., Conclusion: The results of this study indicate that body mass is related to smoking status (both pack-years and continuance of smoking) in COPD; however, serum TNF-alpha concentration does not seem to be a good marker of weight loss in these patients.

We searched for serum concentrations of trace elements and correlated them to malondialdehyde (MDA), which is an indirect marker of oxidative stress, in order to clarify if routine evaluation is necessary in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) outpatients. Serum concentrations of copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), and magnesium (Mg) were determined by atomic absorption spectrophotometry and iron (Fe) by a ILLab 1800 autoanalyzer with ILLab test kits. Serum MDA concentrations were detected in terms of TBARS (thiobarbituric acid reactive substances) spectrophotometrically. Serum Cu, Zn, Mg, Fe, and MDA concentrations in patient and control groups were all in the normal reference range. The results respectively were as follows: Cu:123 +/- 29.2 and 122.2 +/- 23.4 microg/dL; Zn: 87.8 +/- 17.8 and 96.9 +/- 12.9 microg/dL; Mg: 2.3 +/- 0,5 and 2.04 +/- 0.28 mg/dL; Fe: 73.8 +/-35.5 and 80.7+/-51.2 microg/dL; MDA: 1.09+/-0.11 and 0.95+/-0.06 nmol/L. MDA was not correlated to Cu, Zn, Mg, or Fe (p>0.05 for all). The serum Zn concentration of COPD group was lower than the control group (p=0.042), whereas the Mg concentration was higher (p=0.021). There was no statistical difference in other study parameters. Oxidative stress was not increased in clinically stable, regularly treated COPD patients. Although there was no deficiency in trace elements (Cu, Fe, Mg, and Zn), serum Zn was close to the lower limit of the reference value. There is no need for routine evaluation of trace elements in clinically stable, regularly treated COPD outpatients.

The aim of this study is to investigate if erythrocyte fragility is altered in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) due to oxidative stress. Fasting blood samples were collected into both plain tubes and tubes with K(3) EDTA and analyzed in two hours for hematologic indexes and erythrocyte osmotic fragility (EOF). Malondialdehyde (MDA) concentrations in serum were detected in terms of TBARS (thiobarbituric acid reactive substances), spectrophotometrically. Thirty-nine clinically stable male COPD patients with mean age 67+/-8 were prospectively studied. The control subjects consisted of healthy males with mean age 64+/-12. Pulmonary function tests of COPD patients revealed severe airway obstruction whereas they were normal for control group. Normal pH with mild hypoxemia and hypercapnia were detected in arterial blood gas analyses. Hemoglobin, haematocrit and mean corpuscular volume values of two groups were similar. Mean serum MDA concentration was 1.09+/-0.11 micromol/l in COPD patients and 0.95+/-0.06 micromol/l in the control group (p=0.336). EOF was 33.06+/-1.24% in COPD group and 33.17+/-1.55% in controls (p=0.453). There was no correlation between EOF and MDA concentrations of COPD patients (r=-0.18, p=0.924). EOF and MDA did not correlate with severity of COPD (p>0.05). We conclude that markers of oxidative stress are not increased and erythrocyte osmotic fragility is not altered in stable COPD patients with normal arterial pH.