Manometric evaluation of oral function with a hand-held balloon probe

Tongue pressure measured with a disposable hand-held balloon probe has been used for assessing tongue function; however, no diagnostic standard for assessing other oral functions exists currently. In this study, to develop a method for multifactorial manometric evaluation of oral functions, 20 men and 20 women (21-32 years of age) were instructed to apply 7-s maximal voluntary muscular effort on a hand-held balloon probe placed against the anterior and lateral parts of the palate, buccal surface of the molars on the habitual chewing side and labial surface of the anterior teeth for measuring anterior and posterior tongue, cheek and lip pressures (LPs), respectively. Intra-session reproducibility was determined by three repeated measurements, and associations between the obtained and the conventional data on oral diadochokinesis were tested. The men exhibited higher values of all the pressure types. Further, both genders showed a positive correlation between anterior and posterior tongue pressures (PTPs) (P < 0·05), but only the women exhibited positive correlations between anterior tongue and cheek pressures, cheek and PTPs, anterior tongue and LPs, and cheek and LPs (P < 0·05). No statistically significant correlation was found between the pressures and the number of syllabic articulations, except between LP and the number of /pa/ articulations in the women (r = 0·524, P < 0·05). In conclusion, the balloon probe method enables objective manometric evaluation of oral functions and could be an effective tool for clinical epidemiological studies and evidence-based decision-making in nursing care.

Enhanced initial bone regeneration with inorganic polyphosphate-adsorbed hydroxyapatite

Inorganic polyphosphate (poly(P)) can promote binding between fibroblast growth factors and their receptors and enhance osteoblastic cell differentiation and calcification. This study evaluated the possibilities for poly(P) adsorbed onto interconnected porous calcium hydroxyapatite (IP-CHA) as a new bone regeneration material. Prepared 1%, 5%, 25% and 50% poly(P)/IP-CHA composites showed the elution peak of poly(P) between 15 and 20 min, respectively, with the highest value from 50% poly(P)/IP-CHA in vitro. Histologically, at 1 week of placement into the femur of rabbits, granulation tissue had penetrated into the pores in all composites and IP-CHA as a control. In contrast, at 2 weeks of placement, newly formed lamellar bone was found in all groups, although a higher amount of bone regeneration was obviously formed in the 25% and 50% poly(P)/IP-CHA with a significantly higher value of bone regeneration ratio of 50% poly(P)/IP-CHA. These results indicate that 25% and 50% poly(P)/IP-CHA composites may enhance initial bone regeneration.

Dynamic viscoelastic properties of vinyl polysiloxane denture soft lining materials

The aim of this study was to investigate the dynamic viscoelastic properties of seven commercially available vinyl polysiloxane denture soft lining materials. Five rectangular specimens (2 x 10 x 30 mm) were prepared from each material. The complex modulus E* (MPa) and loss tangent (tan delta) of each specimen were determined with a non-resonance forced vibration method using an automatic dynamic viscoelastometer at 1 Hz after 1 day of dry storage, and after 1, 30, 60, 90 and 180 days of wet storage at 37 degrees C. All data were analysed using one-way anova and Bonferroni/Dunn's test for multiple comparisons with a significance level of P < 0.01. All materials varied widely in terms of viscoelasticities and showed both an increase in E* and a decrease in tan delta at 1 Hz after the 1-day wet storage. After 60 days of wet storage, both E* and tan delta did not change significantly. The stiffer materials (>30% filler content) with high E* values (>2.00 MPa) showed elastic behaviour with tan delta values of around 0.03. The softer materials (6% filler content) with high tan delta values (initial value > 0.10) showed viscous behaviour and were easily affected by water absorption after the 1-day wet storage. It can be concluded that for the proper selection of vinyl polysiloxane denture soft lining materials, it is very important to evaluate the viscoelastic properties after 60 days of wet storage.

Effect of combined application of bFGF and inorganic polyphosphate on bioactivities of osteoblasts and initial bone regeneration

Basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) and inorganic polyphosphate (poly(P)) have been recognized as therapeutic agents that enhance bone regeneration. It has also been shown that poly(P) may enhance the mitogenic activity of bFGF. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the combined effect of bFGF and poly(P) on bioactivities of osteoblasts and initial bone regeneration in vitro and in vivo. MC3T3-E1 cells were treated with bFGF, poly(P) or bFGF+poly(P), then subjected to cell proliferation assay, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity measurement, quantitative real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and Alizarin S Red staining. In an in vivo study, bFGF-, poly(P)- and bFGF+poly(P)-modified interconnected porous hydroxyapatite (IPHA) complexes were fabricated, and placed into the femurs of rabbits to evaluate new bone formation histologically and histomorphometrically. The highest enhancement of cell proliferation were observed in those treated with bFGF+poly(P) on days 5 and 7. Cells treated with bFGF+poly(P) also exhibited increased ALP activity on days 5 and 10, up-regulated mRNA levels of osteocalcin and osteopontin, and enhanced calcification when compared to the non-treated cells. In vivo, the highest bone formation ratio was observed in bFGF+poly(P)-modified IPHA complexes. This study indicated that co-application of bFGF and poly(P) may provide enhanced bone formation by modulating cell proliferation and the mineralization process. It is anticipated that a combined application of bFGF and poly(P) can provide a novel method for bone regeneration in clinical use.

Effect of saliva on an antimicrobial tissue conditioner containing silver-zeolite

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the influence of human saliva on the antimicrobial effect of a tissue conditioner containing an antibiotic agent, silver-zeolite. Samples of each tissue conditioner with or without silver-zeolite were prepared and a plastic disk was used as a control. Candida albicans and nosocomial respiratory infection-causing bacteria, Staphylococcus aureus, methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA), Pseudomonas aeruginosa and the Streptococcus milleri group (S. constellatus and S. intermedius), were selected as test microorganisms. Antimicrobial effects of samples after water or saliva immersion for 28 days were evaluated by counting the number of viable cells [colony forming unit (CFU)] in each microbial suspension (100 microL). All data were statistically analysed by one-way anova and Bonferroni's test (P < 0.05). The antimicrobial effects of samples with silver-zeolite immersed in saliva against C. albicans, S. aureus and MRSA were observed while CFU of P. aeruginosa indicated no significant difference from that of the control. As for the S. milleri group, its CFU after saliva immersion showed the significantly smaller value than that of the control. It is concluded that the antimicrobial effects of samples containing silver-zeolite against all tested microbes except for P. aeruginosa and the S. milleri group are not influenced by saliva immersion for 28 days.

Action of FGMgCO3Ap-collagen composite in promoting bone formation

To improve the biological properties of materials as bone substitutes, functionally graded CO3 apatite crystals containing magnesium, FGMgCO3Ap, were synthesized to be mixed with atelocollagen and made into a composite pellet. A radio-labeled cell adhesion experiment showed that the degree of adherence of mouse MC3T3E1 osteoblast-like cells to the FGMgCO3Ap-collagen composite was better than to CO3Ap-collagen and much better than to the Ti plate. When the composites were implanted beneath the periosteum cranii of rats, the FGMgCO3Ap-collagen composite was metabolized faster than the CO3Ap-collagen composite and better formation of new bone and osteoblast arrangement at the interface between the composite and the periosteum cranii was observed. When the composites were implanted into the femur of rabbits, clear bone formation with a higher degree of bone density was observed for the FGMgCO3Ap-collagen composite. These results suggest that the Mg2+ ions taken into the apatite crystals may contribute to the acceleration of osteoblast adhesion to apatites and promote bone formation, cross-talking with osteoblasts at the molecular level.

Handy measurement for tongue motion and coordination with laryngeal elevation at swallowing

At the oral stage of swallowing, the tongue plays a major role and proper tongue performance is necessary to form the bolus and transfer it to the pharynx. For the present study we built a prototype device for safe and handy objective estimation of tongue motion and coordination with laryngeal elevation at swallowing. The device records tongue pressure by means of two strain gauge pressure transducers aligned 20 mm apart on a brass strap placed along the palatal midline. Laryngeal vibration is recorded with piezo-electric acceleration transducers. Time differences between pressure onset at the anterior and posterior transducers and the first spike from laryngeal vibration are measured. Ten healthy subjects were asked five times to swallow 5 mL of water. Pressure onset at the anterior transducer preceded posterior pressure by 294 +/- 164 ms. Given the distance between the transducers, the tongue contracted (squeezed) at a speed of 93 +/- 60 mm s(-1). Laryngeal vibration occurred 671 +/- 175 ms after the onset of anterior pressure. There was considerable variation in these parameters between subjects. Though the data is limited, the device successfully and easily revealed certain aspects of tongue motion and coordination with laryngeal elevation.

Acid pretreatment of titanium implants

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of several methods of cleaning titanium surfaces as pretreatment for surface modifications by analyzing the chemical interaction of three acids, such as Na(2)S(2)O(8),H(2)SO(4) and HCl, followed by rinsing with acetone or ultrapure water. Chemical evaluation, using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and mechanical evaluation, using nanoindentation, were employed. XPS revealed that an untreated Ti surface consisted of carbon- and nitrogen-containing contaminant and titanium oxide layer on metallic titanium substrate. The method involving the combination of 10 N HCl and acetone was the most effective of all the methods investigated. Such a combination most effectively reduced values of contamination parameters C/Ti and N/Ti, as well as the intensity of the titanium oxide component in Ti 2p spectra. Chlorine was barely detected from the surface treated with HCl in any concentration. Sulfur from the residual S(2)O(8)(2-) or SO(4)(2-), however, was detected from the samples treated with either Na(2)S(2)O(8) or H(2)SO(4). The S/Ti values depended on concentration of the acidic solution. In addition, nanoindentation measurements revealed that Young's modulus of the surface treated with 0.1-10 N HCl was not significantly different from that of an untreated surface (p > 0.05). Consequently, the HCl/acetone treatment is proposed as an excellent decontamination method for the surface preparation process of Ti.

A mimic osseointegrated implant model for three-dimensional finite element analysis

The purpose of this study was to develop a new three-dimensional (3D) mimic model of an osseointegrated implant for finite element analysis (FEA) and to evaluate stress distributions in comparison with a model commonly used in most studies as a control. Based on the 3D computer graphic data obtained by serial in vivo bucco-lingual peri-implant bone structure at 75 microm interval in monkey, a mimic FEA model with trabecular structure and a control model with uniform cancellous bone were constructed. A vertical load of 143 N was applied at the top of the implant and induced stress was evaluated at the peri-implant bone. In the mimic model, stress was distributed at both cortical and cancellous bones (1-5 MPa) in bucco-lingual central planes, but concentrated at the cortical crest (3-7 MPa) in the mesio-distal central plane. In contrast, the control model presented stress concentration at the cortical crest around the implant (5-14 MPa), with less stress (0-1 MPa) at the peri-implant cancellous bone in both planes. The findings, that stress distribution at the peri-implant bone were quite different between the mimic and control models, suggest the need to carefully interpret stress distribution in previous studies with models of uniform cancellous peri-implant bone.

Forskolin-induced clearance of the fluorescent dye sulforhodamine from rat parotid intralobular duct lumen: visualization of the secretory function under a confocal laser scanning microscope

Cyclic AMP evokes fluid secretion with bicarbonate in exocrine ducts. Clearance of fluorescent dyes from rat parotid intralobular ducts by forskolin was visualized as a fluorescence change in the duct luminal space by optical sectioning under a confocal laser scanning microscope to clarify the secretory function in the ducts. When the isolated rat parotid intralobular duct segments were superfused with membrane-impermeable fluorescent dyes during the experimental period, fluorescent dyes were passively moved into the duct space. Forskolin and isobutylmethylxanthine decreased the fluorescence of anionic dye, sulforhodamine B, and neutral dye, dextran tetramethyl-rhodamine, in the duct space, suggesting that the forskolin-induced clearance of fluorescent dyes might be the result of fluid secretion in the ducts. Methazolamide inhibited a forskolin-induced sustained decrease in duct fluorescence and intracellular acidification. Low concentrations of external Cl?, DIDS, bumetanide and amiloride did not markedly inhibit a forskolin-induced decrease in duct fluorescence. These findings suggest that a major portion of the steady decrease in duct fluorescence by forskolin was related to intracellular HCO3? production, not the uptake mechanism of external Cl?. Glibenclamide, NPPB, DPC and DMA inhibited the forskolin-induced decrease. Forskolin evokes the clearance of fluorescent dyes from duct space possibly due to fluid secretion in rat parotid ducts, associated with secretion through CFTR and DPC-sensitive anion channels of carbonic anhydrase-dependent bicarbonate linked with the Na+/H+ exchange mechanism.

Synthesis of functionally graded MgCO3 apatite accelerating osteoblast adhesion

As a means of improving the biological properties of materials for use as bone substitutes, functionally graded carbonate apatite containing Mg, FGMgCO3Ap, was synthesized at 60 degrees C and pH 7.4 using a gradient magnesium supply system. X-ray diffraction analysis of FGMgCO3Ap showed a poorly crystallized apatitic pattern, similar to that of human bone. ESCA analysis clearly showed the negative gradient distribution in Mg1s intensity (atomic concentration) of magnesium from the crystal surface toward the inner core. When the FGMgCO3Ap crystals were mixed with collagen, the resulting FGMgCO3Ap-collagen composite, irradiated with UV light for 4 h, retained their features in the saline solution. After washing away the nonadhesive cells, a cell adhesion assay showed that the optical density of the FGMgCO3Ap-collagen composite was higher than that of the CO3Ap-collagen composite. SEM observation showed that the osteoblast-like cells adhered well to the surface of the FGMgCO3Ap-collagen composite. Staining with hematoxylin-eosin and alizarin red confirmed the existence of a great many more cells and a thicker extracellular matrix layer on the FGMgCO3Ap-collagen composite than on the CO3Ap-collagen composite. This result demonstrated the acceleration effect of magnesium ions on osteoblast adhesion on the FGMgCO3Ap-collagen composite.

[Oral care reduces pneumonia of elderly patients in nursing homes, irrespective of dentate or edentate status]

Aspiration of oral secretions and their bacteria, especially gram-negative bacilli, is increasingly being recognized as an important factor in pneumonia. We investigated whether oral care reduces the frequency of pneumonia in the institutionalized elderly. Nurses or caregivers cleaned patients' teeth with toothbrushes after each meal, and scrubbed the oropharynx with an applicator with povidone iodine (1%) every day. Dentists or dental hygienists gave professional care once a week. During follow up, pneumonia decreased significantly in patients with oral care. Oral care was of benefit for both edentate as well as dentate subjects, although periodontal diseases might cause pneumonia. We suggest that oral care may be useful in preventing pneumonia in institutionalized elderly, irrespective of dentate or edentate status.

Extremely high drug-reductase activity based on aldehyde oxidase in monkey liver

Drug-reducing ability of monkey liver cytosol was examined in this study. Monkey liver cytosol exhibited significant reductase activities toward zonisamide, sulindac and imipramine N-oxide in the presence of 2-hydroxypyrimidine or benzaldehyde, an electron donor to aldehyde oxidase. These activities were abolished by inhibitors of aldehyde oxidase, such as menadione. These reductase activities in monkeys were extremely high compared to those in other animals. The zonisamide reductase activity of monkey liver cytosol was about 40-fold higher than that of the liver microsomes. It appears that the high levels of aldehyde oxidase exists in monkey liver, and zonisamide, sulindac and imipramine N-oxide are mainly reduced by this enzyme, not by cytochrome P450.

Analysis of stiffness and stress in I-bar clasps

An I-bar clasp is one of the most popular direct retainers for distal-extension removable partial dentures. However, no adequate information is available on the shape associated with biomechanics. This study aimed (1) to establish a three-dimensional (3D) finite-element modelling method of I-bar clasps, and (2) to clarify the effect of the shape on the stress and stiffness of I-bar clasps. 3D computer models of I-bar clasps were created with vertical and horizontal straight sections connected with a curved section with six parameters: thickness of the clasp tip (T), width of the clasp tip (W), radius of the curvature (R), horizontal distance between the base and the vertical axis (H), vertical dimension between the tip and the horizontal axis (V), taper (change of width per unit length along the axis)(Tp). Stress decreased as T, W, R and Tp increased, and as V decreased. Stiffness (which is proportional to retention) increased as T, W, R and Tp increased, and as H and V decreased. In both stress and stiffness, the effects of T and Tp were especially large. From the results, a systematic formula between the clasp shape and the stiffness was derived.

An in vitro wear study of posterior denture tooth materials on human enamel

This in vitro study evaluated the wear effects of five posterior denture tooth materials on human enamel. The tooth specimen was cusp shaped and enamel specimen was formed as a 10 C 10 C 5 mm plate. All material-enamel combinations were tested using a machine designed to produce sliding contact 20 C 104 times at 60 cycles min-1 and a 4-mm sliding distance per stroke in the bucco-lingual direction under a load of 1 kg. Wear analysis was measured as the total height loss of each combination. In addition, the surface roughness (Ra) of each worn specimen was also evaluated. The least total height loss occurred with poly (methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) enamel pair, and the greatest did with porcelain (Po)-enamel pair. The lowest compound Ra value was measured in high-strength resin (HR)-enamel pair, and the highest in Po-enamel pair. These findings suggest that the best combination is PMMA-enamel, and the poorest combination is Po-enamel.

Finite element analysis on preferable I-bar clasp shape

An I-bar clasp is one of the most popular direct retainers for distal-extension removable partial dentures. However, no adequate information is available on preferable shape as determined by biomechanics. This study aimed (1) to investigate, by finite element analysis (FEA), the dimensions and stress of I-bar clasps having the same stiffness, and (2) to estimate a mechanically preferable clasp design. Three-dimensional FEA models of I-bar clasps were created with vertical and horizontal straight sections connected by a curved section characterized by six parameters: thickness of the clasp tip, width of the clasp tip, radius of the curvature, horizontal distance between the base and the vertical axis, vertical dimension between the tip and the horizontal axis, and taper (change of width per unit length along the axis). Stress was calculated with a concentrated load of 5 N applied 2 mm from the tip of the clasp in the buccal direction. A thinner and wider clasp having an taper of 0.020-0.023 and radius of curvature of 2.75-3.00 showed less stress. The results suggest that such a shape might be the preferable I-bar clasp shape as biomechanical viewpoint.

Gramicidin-perforated patch analysis on HCO3- secretion through a forskolin-activated anion channel in rat parotid intralobular duct cells

Forskolin-induced anion currents and depolarization were investigated to clarify the mechanism of HCO3- secretion in the intralobular duct cells of rat parotid glands. Anion currents of the cells were measured at the equilibrium potential of K+, using a gramicidin-perforated patch technique that negligibly affects intracellular anion concentration. The forskolin-induced anion current was sustained and significantly (54%) suppressed by glibenclamide (200 microM), a blocker of the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) Cl- channel. The anion current was markedly suppressed by addition of 1 mM methazolamide, a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor, and removal of external HCO3-. Forskolin depolarized the cells in the current-clamp mode. Addition of methazolamide and removal of external HCO3- significantly decreased the depolarizing level. These results suggest that activation of anion channels (mainly the CFTR Cl- channel located in luminal membranes) and production of cytosolic HCO3- induce the inward anion current and resulting depolarization. Inhibition of the Na(+)-K(+)-2Cl- cotransporter and the Cl(-)-HCO3- exchanger had no significant effect on the current or depolarization, indicating that the uptake of Cl- via the Na(+)-K(+)-2Cl- cotransporter or the Cl(-)-HCO3- exchanger is not involved in the responses. Taken together, we conclude that forskolin activates the outward movement (probably secretion) of HCO3- produced intracellularly, but not of Cl- due to lack of active Cl- transport in parotid duct cells, and that the gramicidin-perforated patch method is very useful to analyze anion transport.

Correlation between quality of life and denture satisfaction in elderly complete denture wearers

PURPOSE

This study was done to clarify the correlation between the quality of life (QOL), defined as overall satisfaction with daily life, and denture satisfaction in elderly complete denture wearers.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A new method for quantifying overall satisfaction with daily life (QOL) among 2,079 elderly people (age > or = 65 years) was developed by evaluating the contribution of 13 factors (eating, health problems, daily exercise, fatigue, sleep quality, smooth communication, physical comfort, aging, loneliness, job and hobbies, meaningfulness, social life, and economic problems) to overall daily life satisfaction by a multiple regression analysis. Then, correlation between the QOL and denture satisfaction was analyzed by the regression model in 84 randomly selected complete denture wearers from the above population.

RESULTS

Quantification of the QOL was completed by converting category scores to integers between 0 and 100 for eight highly correlated factors (eating, smooth communication, physical comfort, loneliness, job and hobbies, meaningfulness, social life, and economic problems) to overall satisfaction with daily life (P < 0.01). Significant positive correlation was found between the QOL score and denture satisfaction score (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Edentulous elderly people who are well satisfied with their daily lives are also satisfied with their complete dentures.

Another anti-allergic mechanism: antibody IgE deglycosylation induced by a substance extracted from human urine

Enzymically-deglycosylated antibody IgE lost its allergic activity in mouse systemic anaphylaxis, though the IgE kept its antibody activity. IgE antibody obtained from mice treated with a substance extracted from human urine was deglycosylated. This IgE also lost the allergic activity on the systemic anaphylaxis but kept its antibody activity. These findings strongly suggest that glycosylation of IgE has a close relation to the binding of the Fc receptor and that humans have another antiallergic mechanism: in vivo IgE antibody deglycosylation induced by the substance.

Dimensional measurement and finite element analysis of I-bar clasps in clinical use

An I-bar clasp is a popular retainer for distal-extension removable partial dentures. However, there have been almost no evidence-based criteria on the mechanically preferable shape. The present study aimed to investigate the variations of dimension in I-bar clasps used in patients, and to clarify the effect of the variations on stiffness and stress of I-bar clasps by finite element analysis. Dimensions (thickness, width, taper, radius of curvature, length, relation to oral structures) of 23 I-bar clasps were measured. A three-dimensional finite element model was made for each measured I-bar clasp with vertical and horizontal straight sections connected with a curved section. A concentrated load of 5 N was applied at the lowest point of the tip that contacted the abutment in the buccal direction. Maximal equivalent stress and stiffness of each clasp were evaluated. The measured dimension, stiffness, and maximum stress showed wide variations. Mean stiffness was far from the proper one, and mean stress was near the proportional limit of Co-Cr alloy. Considering the stiffness and stresses in this study, only six clasps out of 23 were appropriate. These results suggest that evidence-based criteria of preferable shape of I-bar clasps should be determined.

A method for quantifying overall satisfaction of complete denture patients

Reproducible and quantitative evaluation of patient satisfaction with their complete dentures is of great importance for preoperative diagnosis, treatment planning and assessment of complete denture treatment outcome. This study attempted (1) to clarify the degree of contribution of various factors to overall satisfaction, and (2) to develop a method for quantitative assessment of overall satisfaction with complete dentures. Twelve satisfaction factors and a three-grade scale were used to assess 302 complete denture patients. The contribution of each grade of the 12 factors to the overall satisfaction level was determined by multiple regression analysis. Seven factors were highly correlated to the overall satisfaction. Based on the level of contribution by these seven significant factors, a scoring method for satisfaction was established. Category scores for these factors were calculated and the sum of the category scores was converted to an integer between 0 and 100. The resulting quantification score was closely correlated with overall satisfaction. A protocol for scoring overall satisfaction was developed based on the scientifically analysed contribution of each satisfaction factor.

Biomechanical effects of double or wide implants for single molar replacement in the posterior mandibular region

Double implants have been thought to have biomechanical advantages for single molar replacement. To evaluate the effectiveness of double implants versus a wide implant, the vertical forces and torque on each implant were calculated by three-dimensional geometric analysis. Buccal load (100N) perpendicular to cuspal inclination (20 degrees) was applied at the occlusal surface of the superstructure. The three kinds of load points (A, B, C) were 1.5, 3.5, and 5.5 mm from the mesial contact point, respectively. Three implants were compared: mesial and distal double implants (phi 3.3 mm), and a wide implant (phi 5 mm). The wide implant showed torque around the long axis (1.8-15.0 N x cm) whereas double implants had no torque. On the other hand, the vertical forces on the mesial double implant were both smaller (60%: loaded at point C) and larger (140%: loaded at point A) than the wide implant. Given the smaller surface area of the mesial double implant, this large force may generate much higher stress in the peri-implant bone. These results suggest that the biomechanical advantage of double implants for single molar replacement is questionable when the occlusal force is loaded at the occlusal surface near the contact point.

Isolation and serum-free culture of epithelial cells derived from epithelial rests of Malassez in human periodontal ligament

To study biological character and function of epithelial rests of Malassez (ERM) in human periodontal ligament, we have developed a serum-free culture system of epithelial cells (ME) derived from ERM. The mitogenic effects of fibroblast growth factor (FGF)-1, FGF-2, and FGF-7/keratinocyte growth factor (KGF) on ME, human periodontal ligament-derived fibroblasts (PLF), human oral epithelial cells (OE), and human submandibular gland-derived epithelial cells (SGE) were investigated under a serum-free culture condition. FGF-1 and FGF-7/KGF stimulated the growth of both ME and SGE but FGF-2 had no effect. On the other hand, FGF-1, FGF-2, and FGF-7/KGF increased the OE proliferation. These results suggested that the divergent requirement of FGF ligands among these cells would be attributed to the different expression pattern of FGF receptor (FGFR) messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) isotypes. Therefore, we examined the expression of FGFR isotypes in these cells. Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) analysis of ME-and SGE-derived mRNAs revealed the presence of mRNA encoding FGFR2-IIIb, a high affinity receptor for FGF-1 and FGF-7/KGF. However, no mRNAs for other FGFR isotypes were detected in both ME and SGE. On the contrary, OE expressed FGFR1-IIIc, FGFR3-IIIb, and FGFR4 mRNAs as well as FGFR2-IIb. These results indicate that FGF binding sites on ME dominantly bind to FGF-1 and FGF-7/KGF, which transduce their signals via FGFR2-IIIb. Immunohistochemical analysis, PCR-Southern, ribonuclease protection assay (RPA), and Western blotting revealed that PLF expressed FGF-7/KGF mRNA and its peptide. These observations suggest that FGF-7/KGF might mediate epithelial-mesenchymal interactions between ME and PLF to maintain normal structure and function of periodontal ligament.

Controlled local application of basic fibroblast growth factor (FGF-2) accelerates the healing of GBR. An experimental study in beagle dogs

This animal study was performed to ascertain whether the regeneration of membrane-protected bone defects can be accelerated by the controlled application of basic fibroblast growth factor (FGF-2) using a new drug delivery system. Standardized alveolar bone defects were made surgically in 9 beagle dogs, and FGF-2 was administered using specially made collagen minipellets. A minipellet containing either 0.15 microgram FGF-2 (FGF) or 0 microgram FGF-2 (placebo) was placed in the defect or no minipellet was used (control), and bone regeneration was evaluated radiologically, histologically, and histometrically 8 weeks after the operation. Radiographs showed a surprisingly large radiopaque region in FGF sites compared with placebo or control sites. Histologically, mature bone filled the majority of the inner space of the membrane-protected defect in FGF sites. New bone formation was also seen in the control and the placebo sites, however, it filled less than half the area of the defect. Histometrically, the area of regenerated bone in FGF sites was significantly higher than in the other sites (P < 0.01). These results demonstrate that the controlled application of FGF-2 accelerates bone regeneration in membrane-protected bone defects in the canine model.

Diverse mechanisms of osteoblast spreading on hydroxyapatite and titanium

Hydroxyapatite (HA) is an osteoconductive implant material. We previously demonstrated that RGD peptides regulate the spreading of HOS cells on HA but not on titanium, speculating that the osteoconductivity of HA might be attributed to this RGD domain-dependent spreading of osteoblasts. To confirm this hypothesis, the molecules which regulate the spreading of HOS cells on HA and on titanium were investigated. The 50% effective dose (ED50) of RGD peptide for the spreading on HA was five fold lower comparing to titanium. Anti-alphaV integrin antibody, vitronectin, and fibronectin inhibited the spreading on HA but not on titanium. In Western blot analysis, vitronectin and fibronectin were found in components adsorbed to HA but not to titanium. Taken together, the spreading of HOS cells on HA but not on titanium requires the interaction of alphaV integrin and its ligands. The ED50 of the RGD peptides on titanium but not on HA was remarkably reduced by neuraminidase treatment, that by itself could not inhibit the spreading on both materials. This phenomenon suggests that RGD domain and sialic acid cooperatively but not independently mediate the spreading of HOS cells on titanium. Collectively, the molecules regulating the spreading on HA are apparently different from those on titanium. The spreading of osteoblasts mediated by RGD domain of vitronectin and fibronectin might contribute to the osteoconductive ability of HA.

Morphogenetic behavior of periodontium on inorganic implant materials: an experimental study of canines

Periodontal ligament derived cells have the potential to regenerate all the components of the periodontium on the surface of inorganic implants, as well as on dentin. This suggests the hypothesis that the nature of the material affects the migration, proliferation, and differentiation of the progenitor cells for periodontium formation. To clarify this hypothesis, we evaluated the material-specific morphogenetic potential of periodontium-derived cells using an animal model for inducing cell migration from the functioning periodontium onto bioactive (hydroxyapatite, HA) and bioinert (titanium alloy, TA) material. Histologically, total periodontium including calcified cementum-like tissue only formed on HA and not on TA. Morphometrically, however, the length of fibrous connective tissue formed on HA was the same as on TA. This suggests that the bioactivity of the material does not affect the migration of periodontium-derived cells but strongly influences cell differentiation.

A biomechanical effect of wide implant placement and offset placement of three implants in the posterior partially edentulous region

To prevent loosening or fracture of screws retaining the prosthesis to the implants in the posterior partially edentulous region, the use of staggered buccal and lingual offset placement or wide implants is suggested. However, it is not known how this usage compensates for the torque produced by lateral occlusal forces. This study evaluated the effectiveness of offset placement of three implants and a wide implant placement at the most posterior site. Three-dimensional geometric analysis was used to calculate the tensile force applied to gold screws in clinical situations with buccal or lingual loading perpendicular to cuspal inclination (10 or 20 degrees ). Four variations of the placement of three implants (3.75 mm) are: (1) straight; (2) buccal offset of the second implant; (3) lingual offset of the second implant; (4) a wide implant (5 mm) placement at most posterior site. The offset placement did not always decrease tensile force at the gold screw, but wide implant placement and decrease in cuspal inclination did.

Effects of repeated selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor paroxetine treatments on mouse forced swimming

Studies were performed in the mouse forced swimming model, a well known experimental depression model, in order to detect the mechanism of the antidepressive effects induced by repeated serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) dosing. Five-day repeat dosing of a typical SSRI, paroxetine, increased climbing, a distinctive antidepressive behavior, 1 h after but not 1 h before treatment. The coinjection of paroxetine and serum in mice treated with four repeated doses of paroxetine distinctively increased the behavior, but the coinjection of paroxetine and serum in mice without paroxetine did not. These results indicate that repeated dosing of paroxetine produces a serum substance related to the antidepressive effects induced by serotonin neuron activities. Furthermore, the behavior induced by 5-day repeated dosing of paroxetine was decreased by 100 and 10 micrograms/kg of ketanserin (5-HT2 antagonist) and 100 micrograms/kg of LY-278584 (5-HT3 antagonist). The present findings strongly suggest that repeated dosing of paroxetine produces a serum substance stimulating the antidepressive neuronal pathway sensitively mediated by 5-HT2 and 5-HT3 receptor activity.

The fragment of complement 3a lacking the primary 9 amino acids induces promoting activity on mouse voluntary running

We have newly found that interleukin-2 (IL-2) increases mouse voluntary running 24 hours, but not 30 minutes, after the injection. We suspected that IL-2 induced a substance increasing the voluntary running for 24 hours after injection. Serum obtained from mice 24 hours after the IL-2 treatment was fractioned with the use of an ion-exchanger and an ultra-filtration method, and the amino acid sequence analysis indicated that the substance purified from the effective fraction was a fragment of mouse complement 3a (C3a) lacking the primary 9 amino acids. The 20 amino acid peptide synthesized according to the fragment showed the activity increasing the voluntary running, but the 20 amino acid peptide synthesized according to the C3a itself did not. The effect of the synthesized peptide was demuted by haloperidol but not by a specific dopamine 2 antagonist (-)sulpiride. The present findings clearly indicate that IL-2 produces the C3a fragment lacking the primary 9 amino acids which directly promotes the voluntary running, and that the effect of the fragment is mediated by an activity of haloperidol on the neurons, except for the dopamine 2 antagonism.

Dynamic viscoelastic properties of antimicrobial tissue conditioners containing silver-zeolite

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of including the antimicrobial silver-zeolite (SZ) on the dynamic viscoelastic properties of various tissue conditioners.

METHODS

The dynamic viscoelastic properties of five commercially available tissue conditioners: Visco-gel (VG), GC Soft-Liner (SL), FITT (FT), SR-Ivoseal (IV) and Shofu Tissue Conditioner (TC) containing SZ were evaluated after 1 and 28 days of water- and artificial saliva immersions with the use of complex modulus and loss tangent parameters. Values for these two parameters for each tissue conditioner were statistically analyzed by one- and two-way ANOVA and Bonferroni's test.

RESULTS

Complex modulus and loss tangent values of TC were not significantly different among specimens containing 0, 2, 5 and 10 wt.%-SZ, respectively. In FT and TC containing 2 wt.%-SZ, these values were not significantly different between 1 and 28 days in both water- and saliva immersions.

CONCLUSION

The results suggest that incorporating SZ does not affect TC's inherent dynamic viscoelastic properties, while the other tissue conditioners investigated may be found to have changed viscoelastic properties as a consequence of the inclusion of SZ.

Developmental and pharmacological features of mouse emotional piloerection

We demonstrated emotional piloerection in mice given conditioned fear stress by means of a pass-through apparatus. The emotional piloerection was first assessed in mice of different ages. The results showed that the piloerection changed with age. Pharmacological studies showed that the piloerection was inhibited by an alpha 1-adrenoceptor antagonist prazosin, but, surprisingly, was not inhibited by anxiolytic diazepam. These findings strongly suggest that the neuronal system of piloerection is different from that of freezing behavior, and that the neuronal system of piloerection develops with age.

Finite element analysis of the effect of vertical curvature on half-oval cast clasps

High stresses in half-oval cast clasps are the main causes of deformation or fracture. A vertical curvature in clasps is said to be effective in reducing stress. However, such claims lack scientific basis. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate stress and stiffness in a three-dimensional (3D) finite element analysis (FEA) model of clasps with different vertical curvatures, cross-sectional forms and tapers, and to clarify the effect of vertical curvature on the half-oval cast clasp. Circumferential clasp arms for the mandibular second premolar were analysed by 3D FEA. The clasp arms were approximated by curved cantilever beams with a half-oval cross-section around a cylinder. The radius of curvature was set at 4 mm and the angle subtended by the clasp arm was 120 degrees. The clasp tip was set at a point 2 mm lower than the base. In the 'No-taper' half-oval clasp arm, stress increased and stiffness decreased with the increase in vertical curvature. In the shape of a preformed wax pattern (thickness/width = 0.80, tip/base = 0.70), stress and stiffness decreased slightly. In an 'Original' form (thickness/width = 0.33, tip/base = 0.80), vertical curvature had a very slight effect on stress and stiffness, and stress was the lowest. These findings suggest the superiority of the 'Original' form, with less stress and no effect of vertical curvature.

Continuous administration of basic fibroblast growth factor (FGF-2) accelerates bone induction on rat calvaria--an application of a new drug delivery system

Some studies have shown that locally applied basic fibroblast growth factor (FGF-2) enhances bone regeneration at a fracture site, while others have not been in agreement. We developed a new continuous FGF-2 delivery system designed to accelerate cytokine-induced new bone formation. A subperiosteal pocket was surgically formed in 36 eight-week-old male Wistar rats. The rats were administered 0, 1, 10, or 100 ng of FGF-2 contained in a collagen minipellet, mixed with allogeneic demineralized bone matrix in a dome-shaped Millipore filter and then placed into the pocket. New bone formation in the dome was evaluated at 2, 4, and 8 wks after placement. Soft x-ray radiographs disclosed an apparently larger radiopaque region in the 1-ng group at 4 wks compared with those in the other groups. Morphometrical analysis revealed that the new bone area in the 1-g group was significantly larger than that in the 0-g group (p<0.01). In the 100-ng FGF-2 group, new bone formation seemed suppressed. We concluded that continuous slow administration of a small amount of FGF-2 accelerates bone-derived osteogenic cytokine-induced new bone formation.

Comparison between freestanding and tooth-connected partially stabilized zirconia implants after two years' function in monkeys: a clinical and histologic study

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM

Partially stabilized zirconia implants placed by a 1-stage procedure have been previously shown to obtain initial osseointegration under clinically unloaded condition. However, it is unknown whether freestanding and tooth-connected partially stabilized zirconia implants can maintain a long-term direct bone-implant interface.

PURPOSE

This study examined the possibility of the long-term stability of osseointegration around partially stabilized zirconia implants with a 1-stage procedure with different loading designs.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Thirty-two partially stabilized zirconia implants were placed into the mandibles of 8 monkeys. Three months after implant placement, 3 types of superstructure were provided in each animal to obtain different concepts of support as (1) single freestanding implant support, (2) connected freestanding implant support, and (3) a combination of implant and tooth support. At 12 and 24 months after loading, clinical, histologic, and histomorphometric evaluations of peri-implant tissues were performed on 28 implants.

RESULTS

No clear difference in clinical features was observed among the different types of support. Direct bone apposition to the implant was generally seen in all groups. Histometrically, bone contact ratio ranged between 66% and 81%, and bone area ratio varied between 49% and 78% at 24 months after loading. These values showed almost no difference among single freestanding, connected freestanding, and implant-tooth supports of partially stabilized zirconia implants.

CONCLUSION

In a primate model, partially stabilized zirconia implants placed with a 1-stage procedure achieve long-term stability of osseointegration with the use of single freestanding, connected freestanding, and implant-tooth supports.

Cyclic ADP-ribose induces Ca2+ release from caffeine-insensitive Ca2+ pools in canine salivary gland cells

Cyclic ADP-ribose (cADPR), a novel putative messenger of the ryanodine receptor, was examined regarding its ability to mobilize Ca2+ from intracellular Ca2+ stores in isolated cells of parotid and submandibular glands of the dog. cADPR induced a rapid and transient Ca2+ release in the digitonin-permeabilized cells of salivary glands. cADPR-induced Ca2+ release was inhibited by ryanodine receptor antagonists ruthenium red, ryanodine, benzocaine, and imperatoxin inhibitor but not by the inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3)-receptor antagonist heparin. Thapsigargin, at a concentration of 3 to 30 microM, inhibited IP3-induced Ca2+ release, while higher concentrations were required to inhibit cADPR-induced Ca2+ release. Cross-potentiation was observed between cADPR and ryanodine or SrCl2, suggesting that cADPR sensitizes the Ca2+-induced Ca2+ release mechanism. Cyclic AMP plays a stimulatory role on cADPR- and IP3-induced Ca2+ release in digitonin-permeabilized cells. Calmodulin also potentiated cADPR-induced Ca2+ release, but inhibited IP3-induced Ca2+ release. Acetylcholine and ryanodine caused the rise in intracellular free Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) in intact submandibular and parotid cells. Caffeine did not produce any increase in Ca2+ release or [Ca2+]i rise in any preparation. ADP-ribosyl cyclase activity was found in the centrifuged particulate fractions of the salivary glands. These results suggest that cADPR serves as an endogenous modulator of Ca2+ release from Ca2+ pools through a caffeine-insensitive ryanodine receptor channel, which are different from IP3-sensitive pools in canine salivary gland cells. This system is positively regulated by cyclic AMP and calmodulin.

A method for quantifying complete denture quality

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM

Reproducible and quantitative clinical evaluation of complete denture prostheses is of great importance for preoperative diagnosis, treatment planning, and assessment of quality of denture treatment.

PURPOSE

This study attempted (1) to clarify the degree of contribution each clinical factor made to the general assessment of experienced prosthodontists to complete denture prostheses, and (2) to develop a method for quantitative assessment of complete denture quality.

METHODS

Sixteen clinical factors with a three-grade scale were used to evaluate complete denture prostheses in 320 patients. The general assessment of the dentures was conducted with a 10-point scale. The contribution of each grade of the 16 factors to the general assessment level was determined by a multiple regression analysis.

RESULTS

Seven factors were highly correlated to the general assessment. On the basis of these significant contributions, a complete denture scoring method was established followed by the calculation of the category scores of these factors and conversion of the total sum of each category score to an integer number between 0 and 100. The resultant quantification score was closely correlated with the general assessment of the denture.

CONCLUSION

An evaluation protocol used for scoring of complete dentures was developed based on the scientifically analyzed knowledge of experienced prosthodontists.

Effects of parathyroid hormone (PTH) and PTH-related peptide on expressions of matrix metalloproteinase-2, -3, and -9 in growth plate chondrocyte cultures

The roles of PTH and PTH-related peptide (PTH-rp) in the expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) during endochondral bone formation were investigated, using various cartilages obtained from young rabbits and rabbit chondrocyte cultures. Immunohistochemical, immunoblotting, zymographical, and/or Northern blot analyses showed that MMP-2 and -9 levels were much higher in the growth plate than in permanent cartilage in vivo. In growth plate chondrocyte cultures, PTH, PTH-rp, and (Bu)2cAMP increased the amount of MMP-2 present in the culture medium, as revealed by zymograms and immunoblots, whereas the other tested growth factors or cytokines, including bone morphogenetic protein-2 and interleukin-1, did not increase the MMP-2 level. PTH also increased the MMP-2 messenger RNA level within 24 h. In addition, PTH increased MMP-3 and -9 levels in the growth plate chondrocyte cultures. However, in articular chondrocyte cultures, PTH had little effect on the levels of MMP-2, -3, and -9. In contrast to PTH, interleukin-1 induced MMP-3 and -9, but not MMP-2, in growth plate and articular chondrocytes. These findings suggest that in ossifying cartilage, PTH/PTH-rp plays a pivotal role in the induction of various MMPs, including MMP-2 (which is considered to be a constitutive enzyme), and that PTH/PTH-rp is involved in the control of cartilage-matrix degradation during endochondral bone formation.

A comparative evaluation of mandibular finite element models with different lengths and elements for implant biomechanics

Further validity of finite element analysis (FEA) in implant biomechanics requires an increase of modelled range and mesh refinement, and a consequent increase in element number and calculation time. To develop a new method that allows a decrease of the modelled range and element number (along with less calculation time and less computer memory), 10 FEA models of the mandible with different mesio-distal lengths and elements were constructed based on three-dimensional graphic data of the bone structure around an osseointegrated implant. Analysis of stress distribution followed by 100 N loading with the fixation of the most external planes of the models indicated that a minimal bone length of 4.2 mm of the mesial and distal sides was acceptable for FEA representation. Moreover, unification of elements located far away from the implant surface did not affect stress distribution. These results suggest that it may be possible to develop a replica FEA implant model of the mandible with less range and fewer elements without altering stress distribution.

Inhibition of Na+,K(+)-ATPase by platelet-activating factor in dog submandibular glands

Physiological stimulation of dog submandibular gland has been shown to generate platelet-activating factor (PAF). However, PAF is not released from cells in the tissue. To assess its intracellular activity, the effect of PAF on Na+,K(+)-ATPase was examined in dog submandibular gland cells. PAF inhibited Na+,K(+)-ATPase in membrane preparations, and the inhibitory effect was dependent on the protein concentration in the enzyme preparation. The inhibitory effect of a low concentration of PAF was antagonized by a PAF-receptor antagonist, BN 50,739, but at high concentrations, PAF was not antagonized. Kinetic analysis of PAF inhibition of Na+,K(+)-ATPase suggests that the inhibition of Na+,K(+)-ATPase by PAF is not due to competition by PAF at K(+)- or Na(+)-binding sites on the enzyme, but by complex inhibitory mechanisms. These results suggest that PAF may interact with specific and nonspecific site of action resulting in the inhibition of Na+,K(+)-ATPase. Ouabain increased mucin release from dog submandibular gland cells. Because Na+,K(+)-ATPase and ion exchange pathways are important in the secretory responses of acinar cells, PAF may regulate intracellularly the secretory function of acinar cells by modulating Na+,K(+)-ATPase and ionic homeostasis.

RGD peptides regulate the specific adhesion scheme of osteoblasts to hydroxyapatite but not to titanium

Hydroxyapatite (HA) is a bioactive dental implant material which accelerates bone formation on its surface. The mechanism of this acceleration is not clear. The elucidation of the cell adhesion might be the key to the understanding of the bioactive mechanism of HA. In this study, we analyzed the adhesion of HOS human osteoblasts onto HA and titanium to find the particular adhesion to HA. In short-term cultures in fetal bovine serum-pre-coated materials, a significantly higher number of cells adhered to HA than to titanium. In addition, serum-free conditions with phosphate-buffered saline pre-coating or bovine serum albumin pre-coating materials were tested. The results were nearly the same among all pre-coating conditions, suggesting that the quantity of cell adhesion was not affected by serum components. However, in the morphological observations by SEM, the form of adhesion was found to differ among pre-coating conditions. The osteoblasts tightly adhered and spread onto both HA and titanium with serum pre-coating, whereas the cells loosely adhered and did not spread without serum. To evaluate the Arg-Gly-Asp (RGD) sequence-specific adhesion, we used synthetic RGD peptides for a competitive inhibition test. The results showed that RGD peptides remarkably inhibited the tight adhesion and spreading of osteoblasts onto HA, whereas they did not strongly inhibit adhesion and spreading onto titanium. These results demonstrate that the regulation of cell adhesion to HA is different from that to titanium. Our study suggests that the RGD-containing serum proteins might have a major role in regulating the specific adhesion of osteoblasts to HA, and in inducing enhanced cell growth and differentiation.

High incidence of Staphylococcus aureus from dentures and tongues of maxillary resection patients

The incidence and virulence of Staphylococcus aureus from upper dentures and tongues of maxillary resection and edentulous patients were examined. The incidence rates of S. aureus on dentures and tongues from the 8 maxillary resection patients were significantly higher than those from the 20 maxillary edentulous patients. Some S. aureus strains in both patient groups were resistant to antibiotics, and 1 methicillin-resistant S. aureus strain was isolated in each group. Exfoliative toxin was not produced, whereas diverse types of enterotoxin were detected in 4 of the 8 maxillary resection patients and in 3 of 13 maxillary edentulous patients. These findings show that S. aureus inhabits dentures and tongues of maxillary resection patients more often than those of maxillary edentulous patients and that some strains have potential virulence, suggesting that maxillary resection patients are potentially more exposed to a threat from S. aureus and would be the carriers.