Advanced implant overdenture superstructure treatment planning with computer-assisted design systems

The amount of available space between the residual ridge crest and the prosthetic teeth provide a challenge not only for the clinician but also for the dental technologist. This technical report demonstrates the applied use of a touch probe scanner (Pix30 3D Scanner, Dr. Picza, Roland DG Corporation; Irvine, CA, USA) used in conjunction with computer-assisted design (CAD) programs to reduce clinical chair time as well as reduce the cost of intraoral and laboratory components. Tooth arrangement and superstructure are scanned and positioned in various CAD programs to measure the available space for the superstructure. While there are limitations in the accuracy of the scanning process, these limitations have little effect on the treatment planning for complete overdentures as well as fixed prostheses. Once the scanning is complete, CAD programs can be used to improve planning, resulting in less wasted material, fewer errors in diagnosis, and reduction both in overall clinical and laboratory costs and clinical chair time.

Induction of remission in patients with acute myeloid leukemia without prolonged myelosuppression using diphtheria toxin-interleukin 3 fusion protein

7068

The recombinant diphtheria toxin fusion protein, DT388IL3, composed of the catalytic and translocation domains of diphtheria toxin (DT388) fused to human interleukin-3 (IL3) showed selective cytotoxicity to acute myeloid leukemia (AML) stem cells both in vitro and in vivo and was prepared for a phase I clinical study (Urieto, Protein Exp Purif 33, 123, 2004). FDA approval (BB IND#11314) and IRB approvals were obtained. Seventy-five AML patients were screened and thirty-one patients treated. The median age of treated patients was 62 years (range, 25- 81 years). There were sixteen males and fifteen females. Disease was de novo in three, first relapse in ten, second relapse in eight, and refractory in ten patients. Four patients had a history of MDS, and one had a history of secondary AML. One patient each had previously received an autologous or allogeneic stem cell transplant. Cytogenetics were unfavorable in ten, intermediate in nineteen, and not done in two. Seven patients were treated with 4 μg/kg, eight patients were treated with 5.3 μg/kg, thirteen patients treated with 7.1 μg/kg, and three patients treated with 9.4 μg/kg DT388IL3. Drug-related toxicities were mild to moderate and transient including fever, chills, hypotension, hypoxemia, and hypoalbuminemia. Consistent with an absence of toxicity to normal hematopoietic progenitors, responses occurred in the absence of prolonged myelosuppression. Among thirty evaluable patients, we have observed one CR of 8 months duration, two partial remissions (PRs) lasting one and three months and three minimal responses with clearance of peripheral blasts and marrow blast cytoreductions of 89%, 90% and 93% lasting one to two months. Dose escalation is proceeding.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

71-year-old male with progressive dyspnoea and peripheral oedema: a case of cardiac amyloidosis

We present the case of a 71-year-old male with progressive dyspnoea. On physical examination there was evidence of congestive heart failure. The complete blood count was normal and twelve-lead ECG showed low voltage in the standard leads. Chest x-ray showed cardiomegaly, pulmonary congestion and left pleural effusion. Two-dimensional echocardiography and Doppler ultrasound studies revealed biatrial enlargement and a restrictive diastolic filling pattern. Serum protein electrophoresis was abnormal showing a monoclonal elevation of IgG. Amyloid heart disease was suspected. Fat pad biopsy showed findings consistent with amyloid heart disease. Melphalan and prednisone were initiated to help slow the progression of disease.

Natural concepts in pigeons

Pigeons learned to discriminate pictures of trees, bodies of water, or a particular person in three separate experiments. Pictures being seen for the first time were discriminated almost as well as pictures seen in training. The pigeons in each experiment showed similar patterns of errors and correct discrimination.

Natural concepts in pigeons

Pigeons learned to discriminate pictures of trees, bodies of water, or a particular person in three separate experiments. Pictures being seen for the first time were discriminated almost as well as pictures seen in training. The pigeons in each experiment showed similar patterns of errors and correct discrimination.