AUDISTIM® Day/Night Alleviates Tinnitus-Related Handicap in Patients with Chronic Tinnitus: A Double-Blind Randomized Placebo-Controlled Trial

The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of taking a daily supplement based on active compounds (AUDISTIM® Day Night: A D/N) in alleviating tinnitus-related disability, as suggested by previous real-life studies. This double-blind randomized placebo-controlled study was conducted in adults with mild to severe tinnitus receiving a 3-month supplementation with A D/N (magnesium, vitamins, phytochemicals) or placebo (excipients without active ingredients). Tinnitus-related handicap (THI), psychological stress (MSP-9), and sleep quality (PSQI) were assessed at baseline and during intervention, perceived impression of tinnitus improvement at the end of the follow-up. The full set analysis included 114 patients (59 A D/N, 55 placebo) aged 53.8 ± 11.4 years, 58% women, with fluctuating (45%) or permanent (55%) tinnitus from 9.3 ± 9.4 years. A D/N supplementation led to greater changes in THI (-13.2 ± 16.0 vs. -6.2 ± 14.4, p = 0.0158,Cohen's d =0.44) at 3 months (primary outcome), especially with continuous tinnitus (-15.0 ± 16.3 vs. -4.6 ± 12.8, p = 0.0065), and, to a lesser extent, at 1 month (-9.8 ± 13.1 for A vs. -4.3 ± 12.1, p = 0.0213). PSQI significantly improved over time in both groups, but MSP-9 only with A D/N. In lines with previous observational studies, both clinical (THI score > 7 pts) and statistical (vs. placebo) improvement, more pronounced in permanent tinnitus, demonstrate the effectiveness of the combination of active compounds and support its use in the management of mild to severe tinnitus.

Effects of post-polymerization conditions on color properties, surface roughness, and flexural strength of 3D-printed permanent resin material after thermal aging

PURPOSE

To evaluate the color, surface properties, and flexural strength of 3D-printed permanent crown resin subjected to different post-polymerization conditions after artificial aging.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Ninety (10 × 2 mm) disc-shaped specimens were printed by using permanent crown resin with SLA technology. Specimens were divided into nine different groups, subject to post-polymerization conditions at three different times (15, 20, and 30 min) and three different temperatures (40, 60, and 80°C) (n = 10). Color and surface roughness measurements were repeated pre-post thermal aging (5.000 cycles, 5-55°C) and a flexural strength test was carried out. Data were analyzed with Shapiro-Wilk, Kruskal-Wallis, ANOVA, Tukey HSD, and Dunn tests (α < 0.05).

RESULTS

ΔE00  values showed results below the acceptable color threshold, except for the 30 min 40°C group (ΔE00 <1.8). No difference was found between the relative translucency parameter and surface roughness values of the 20 min 60°C group recommended by the manufacturer and the other groups. A significant difference was found between the flexural strength values of the groups (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The color properties, surface topography, and mechanical properties of the printed permanent crown material were affected by different post-polymerization conditions: polymerized at different times and temperatures. Although the flexural strength and color change values showed promising results, more studies are required to evaluate its suitability for clinical use.

A review of the iadt 2020 guidelines

Traumatic dental injuries (TDIs) are a relatively frequent occurrence, with roughly a third of adults experiencing a dental trauma at some time in their life.1 TDIs may present to dental professionals working within primary or secondary care settings. Patients presenting at the time of acute injury will require immediate management and careful long term follow up. Patients may also present later reporting a history of TDI, with developing complications and onward management required. To support dental care professionals, the International Association of Dental Traumatology's (IADT) Guidelines are available globally as a standardised tool to aid the assessment, management and follow up of dental trauma. These easy to access guidelines were updated in 2020 with four distinct publications:General Introduction,1 Fractures and Luxations,2 Avulsion of Permanent Teeth,3 and Injuries in the Primary Dentition.4 The current guidelines represent the best evidence based on available literature and expert opinion.1This paper aims to support dental professionals by specifically highlighting and describing updates in guidance, using the 2020 IADT published guidelines. By incorporating the 2020 guidelines into our everyday practice we aim to provide the most appropriate, standardised care, based on the highest level of available evidence to our patients.The full published guidelines are available free online via the IADT website.

The Oral Health Status and Treatment Needs of Pediatric Patients Living with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Retrospective Study

BACKGROUND

The objective of this retrospective study was to assess the oral health status and treatment needs of children with ASD and to explore the differences in risk factors and oral health care status and the risk factors for treatment under GA.

METHODS

Dental charts of children between 6 and 14 years of age who were examined at a dental facility associated with the College of Dentistry, University of Saskatchewan between 2016 to 2019 were assessed. Children who were identified as having ASD, as well as an age- and gender-matched control group consisting of otherwise healthy children were included in the study.

RESULTS

The sample included 346 dental records, with 173 children having a diagnosis of ASD. Children diagnosed with ASD had significantly higher experience with caries (91.3% vs. 65.9%, p = 0.003) and severity (mean DMFT/dmft = 8.18 ± 1.62 vs. 4.93 ± 0.58 p = 0.007). Children with ASD were also older when visiting the dentist for the first time (age of 5.97 ± 1.18 vs. 2.79 ± 1.09, p = 0.02)). Children with ASD were less likely to brush once a day (66.5% vs. 88.4%, p = 0.02), were more likely to have bruxism (35.8% vs. 10.4%, p = 0.003) and were less likely to have class I occlusion (64.7% vs. 80.9%, p = 0.03). Findings from the logistic regression analysis revealed that children with ASD were also 2.13 times more likely to receive a referral for general anesthesia when all other variables were held constant (p = 0.03).

CONCLUSIONS

This research demonstrates that children diagnosed with ASD may face more barriers with access to oral health care, leading to poorer outcomes and greater treatment dental needs.

Evaluation of permanent and transient congenital hypothyroidism in cases referred from National Neonatal Screening Program

AIM

The incidence of congenital hypothyroidism (CH) has increased world-wide. Lowering cut-off in screening programs has led to an increase in the rate of transient CH. We aimed to evaluate the rates of permanent and transient CH in cases referred from the screening program and to investigate the clinical and laboratory factors which predict transient CH.

METHODS

In 109 cases referred from the neonatal screening program to our hospital, from September 2015 to April 2018, 52 primarily diagnosed CH cases were prospectively evaluated. Regularly followed up, 44 CH cases were included in the study at the end of 3 years.

RESULTS

38.2 ± 1.31 weeks (w) and mean birthweight 3021.3 ± 389.6 gram (g) in the transient CH group; both were significantly lower compared to permanent CH cases with 39.06 ± 1.33 w and 3375.3 ± 425.3 g (P = 0.025, P = 0.007) respectively. Transient CH rate was found to be 50% (all hypoplastic) in the dysgenesis group and 73.3% in groups with normal and hyperplasic thyroid gland. While fT₄ , thyroid-stimulating hormone, and thyroglobulin levels at diagnosis do not predict transient/permanent CH, levothyroxine (LT-4) dosage was significantly lower in the transient CH group in all years. The optimal cut-off value with highest sensitivity and specificity for LT-4 dosage as a predictive marker to differentiate transient CH from permanent CH was 2.27 μg/kg/day (P = 0.004; sensitivity: 71%, specificity: 83%) at 1st year, 1.85 μg /kg/day (P = 0.013; sensitivity: 66%, specificity: 72%) at 2nd year and 1.69 μg /kg/day at 3rd year (P < 0.0001; sensitivity: 90%, specificity: 83%).

CONCLUSION

Transient CH is more frequent than expected. Our results suggest that LT-4 requirement may be a good marker for predicting transient CH, while thyroid hormone levels at the time of diagnosis do not significantly predict permanent and transient CH. Therefore, infants with CH requiring LT-4 doses <2.27 μg/kg/day at 1st year, <1.85 μg /kg/day at 2nd year may be re-evaluated earlier to discriminate transient CH rather than at 3 years of age.

Clinical characteristics, growth patterns, and long-term diabetes complications of 24 patients with neonatal diabetes mellitus: A single center experience

OBJECTIVES

Neonatal diabetes mellitus (NDM) is a rare form of monogenic diabetes, diagnosed before age 6 months. We aimed to describe the clinical characteristics, molecular genetics, and long-term follow-up of NDM patients from a single pediatric endocrine center in Israel.

METHODS

Retrospective study (1975-2020) of all patients diagnosed with diabetes before 6 months of age, who tested negative for pancreatic autoantibodies. Medical records were reviewed for demographic, familial and medical history, and clinical and biochemical features; a genetic analysis was performed.

RESULTS

Of 24 patients, nine had transient neonatal diabetes (TNDM) and 15 permanent neonatal diabetes (PNDM), of whom five had rare syndromic causes. Genetic etiology was revealed in 87.5% of the NDM cohort, and the most common causes were ABCC8 mutations in TNDM and KCNJ11 and insulin gene mutations in PNDM. The switch from insulin to off-label sulfonylurea therapy was successful for 5/9 (56%) of the qualifying candidates. Severe hypoglycemia and diabetic ketoacidosis developed in 2 (8%) patients, and chronic diabetes complications in 5 (21%) patients with more than 10 years NDM. At last follow-up, weight and height of all but two syndromic PNDM patients were normal. The median height-SDS of the TNDM subgroup was significantly taller and the mean weight-SDS significantly heavier than those of the PNDM subgroup (-0.52 (-0.67, -0.09) vs. -0.9 (-1.42, -0.3) (p = 0.035) and 0.22 ± 0.69 vs. -0.89 ± 1.21 (p = 0.02), respectively). PNDM patients showed no incremental change in mean weight SDS over the time.

CONCLUSION

The Israeli NDM cohort has clinical and genetic characteristics comparable with other populations. Patients with TNDM were taller and heavier than those diagnosed with PNDM, although both show rapid catch-up growth and reached normal growth parameters. Chronic diabetes complications developed in patients with long-standing NDM.

Paediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics interface: When should we consider balancing and compensating extractions?

The guidelines regarding balancing and compensating extractions, published by the Royal College of Surgeons of England,¹ are based on relatively low-level evidence and it is highlighted in the guidance that further research into these areas is required. This paper aims to appraise the current evidence base regarding balancing and compensating extractions, to aid general dental practitioners in their decision making. General and clinical factors that should be considered in the treatment planning process are discussed throughout.

Exact Recursive Calculation of Circulant Permanents: A Band of Different Diagonals inside a Uniform Matrix

We present a finite-order system of recurrence relations for the permanent of circulant matrices containing a band of k any-value diagonals on top of a uniform matrix (for k=1,2 and 3) and the method for deriving such recurrence relations, which is based on the permanents of the matrices with defects. The proposed system of linear recurrence equations with variable coefficients provides a powerful tool for the analysis of the circulant permanents, their fast, linear-time computing; and finding their asymptotics in a large-matrix-size limit. The latter problem is an open fundamental problem. Its solution would be tremendously important for a unified analysis of a wide range of the nature's ♯P-hard problems, including problems in the physics of many-body systems, critical phenomena, quantum computing, quantum field theory, theory of chaos, fractals, theory of graphs, number theory, combinatorics, cryptography, etc.

Prognosis of Regenerative Endodontic Procedures in Mature Teeth: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Clinical and Radiographic Parameters

This work aimed to investigate the use of Regenerative Endodontic Procedures (REP) on the treatment of pulp necrosis in mature teeth through systematic review and meta-analysis of evidence on clinical and radiographic parameters before and after REP. A search was performed in different databases on 9 September 2020, including seven clinical studies and randomized controlled trials (RCT). The methodological quality was assessed using Revised Cochrane risk-of-bias (RoB 2) and Before-and-After tools. Meta-analyses were performed to evaluate the success incidences regarding the reduction of periapical lesion and recovery of sensitivity. The certainty of the evidence was assessed using GRADE. Meta-analysis showed a high overall success of 0.95 (0.92, 0.98) I² = 6%, with high periapical lesion reduction at 12 months (0.93 (0.86, 0.96) I² = 37%) and by the end of follow-up (0.91 (0.83, 0.96) I² = 13%). Lower incidences of positive sensitivity response were identified for the electrical (0.58 (0.46, 0.70) I² = 51%) and cold tests (0.70 (0.54, 0.84) I² = 68%). The calculated levels of REP success were similar to those reported for immature teeth. With a very low certainty of evidence, the meta-analysis showed a high incidence of REP’s success for mature teeth with necrotic pulp evidenced by periapical lesion reduction and moderate positive responses to sensitivity tests.

Clinical Evaluation of Resin Composite CAD/CAM Restorations Placed by Undergraduate Students

To evaluate the clinical outcomes of resin composite CAD/CAM restorations in a prospective cohort study, and to assess patient and operator satisfaction after restoration placement, 59 indirect resin composite were placed by supervised undergraduate students, of which 43 restorations were followed over a mean period of 28 months (14–44 months) and evaluated using USPHS criteria. Patient and operator satisfaction levels were assessed using a visual analogue scale (VAS) after restoration placement. A total of 37 patients and 47 restorations were included for further study. Four teeth were extracted—three due to extensive drug-induced secondary caries in the same patient, and one tooth due to large periapical periodontitis after 44 months of service. The overall survival rate was 91.4%, and success rate was 87.2%. Differences between baseline and endpoint scores were significant for marginal discoloration (p < 0.05) and adaptation (p < 0.001). Color match (p < 0.05) and surface texture (p < 0.001) differed significantly, affecting all restoration types. VAS scores for patient and operator satisfaction showed a significant rank correlation (p < 0.01), and pairwise comparison showed significant differences for mean overall patient and operator VAS scores (p < 0.001). Lava Ultimate CAD/CAM may be considered a suitable material for overlays and endocrown restorations when combined with IDS, air abrasion, and MDP-containing adhesive systems. Marginal disintegration may present in inlays and onlays over time.

Masticatory Force in Relation with Age in Subjects with Full Permanent Dentition: A Cross-Sectional Study

Masticatory performance is directly correlated with masticatory muscle work to grind and cut the food. Chewing efficacy is decisive to eating a variety of foods needed maintain general health status at all ages. Older people have oral problems that get worse with age. Elders have more pathologies such as periodontal diseases, caries, tooth loss and inadequate dental prostheses than younger subjects. Objectives: to investigate the correlation between masticatory bite force (MBF) and body mass index (BMI) vs. aging and sex. Methods: This study was performed on 426 subjects (213 females plus 213 male) assigned into five different groups by age. Group “A” aged from 20 to 35 years; group “B” aged 45–59 years; group “C” aged 60–69 years; group “D” aged 70–79 years; and group “E” aged more than 79 years. Results: There were not statistically significant differences in right-side MBF versus left-side MBF. The differences between sex were statistically significant with a stronger bite in males than females (p < 0.05). At the same time, younger subjects had a stronger bite than elders (p < 0.05). In group “E”, more corpulent subjects (BMI > 25) had an MBF higher than less corpulent subjects (BMI < 25, p < 0.05). The analysis of mean MBF showed a statistically significant difference within all groups stratified by BMI with mean values inversely proportional with age (p < 0.001). Conclusion: The results in our study confirm data from many scientific papers. The importance of the present paper was to correlate data between and within a large sample with a wide range of ages. Our sample subjects had a 31%–33% decrease in MBF from group “A” to group “E” group, but they all had full permanent dentation and they preserved a valid MBF.

Mesioangulation of mandibular second molars: A case report

This case report describes a simple alternative for treatment of mesioangulation of mandibular second molars. An 11-year-old girl was diagnosed with unilateral posterior crossbite, moderate incisor crowding and mesioangulation of the right mandibular second molar. The ectopic second molar was uprighted using a modified lingual arch with a distal hook and elastic chains. Orthodontic traction began after appliance installation and was activated once per month using 120 g of force. After six months, the right mandibular second molar was in an upright position. Orthodontic treatment continued with teeth levelling and alignment until acceptable occlusal and aesthetic results were achieved. Adequate stability was observed one year after debonding. The modified mandibular lingual arch with a distal hook is a simple and effective alternative to manage mesioangulation of mandibular second molars with minimum adverse effects and stable outcomes.

Coronal restoration of the root filled tooth - a qualitative analysis of the dentists' decision-making process

Aim

To describe the decision‐making process of the general dental practitioner (GDP) underlying the choice of coronal restoration of a root filled tooth.

Methodology

GDPs were strategically selected with respect to gender, age, undergraduate dental school, service affiliation and duration of professional experience. Semistructured in‐depth interviews were conducted, focusing on the informant’s personal experience of the process which leads to a decision as to how to restore a root filled tooth. The informants were invited to describe in their own words the latest two cases involving decisions of direct or full crown restorations respectively. The interviews were digitally recorded and transcribed verbatim. Interviews from 14 informants, aged 27–64 (mean age 46 years), were included and analysed according to Qualitative Content Analysis.

Results

A theme (latent content) was identified: Clinical factors were considered important but were overruled by context and patient opinions, if in conflict. Three main categories, including seven subcategories (manifest content), were identified. The categories were clinical factors, contextual factors and patient's views. Clinical factors underlying the GDPs' decision included the current dental status and the estimated longevity of the intended restoration. In certain cases, contextual factors were also of importance, either supporting the GDPs' decision or modifying it. However, the patient's views played a decisive role in the final choice of coronal restoration, leading to either mutual acceptance or a compromise, taking into account the patient's economic status and opinions.

Conclusions

With respect to coronal restoration of a root filled tooth, the GDPs’ decision‐making process was based not only on clinical factors, but also on decisive contextual factors and consideration of the patients’ views.

Clinical Characteristics and Long-term Follow-up of Patients with Diabetes Due To PTF1A Enhancer Mutations

CONTEXT

Biallelic mutations in the PTF1A enhancer are the commonest cause of isolated pancreatic agenesis. These patients do not have severe neurological features associated with loss-of-function PTF1A mutations. Their clinical phenotype and disease progression have not been well characterized.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate phenotype and genotype characteristics and long-term follow-up of patients with PTF1A enhancer mutations.

SETTING

Twelve tertiary pediatric endocrine referral centers.

PATIENTS

Thirty patients with diabetes caused by PTF1A enhancer mutations. Median follow-up duration was 4 years.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Presenting and follow-up clinical (birthweight, gestational age, symptoms, auxology) and biochemical (pancreatic endocrine and exocrine functions, liver function, glycated hemoglobin) characteristics, pancreas imaging, and genetic analysis.

RESULTS

Five different homozygous mutations affecting conserved nucleotides in the PTF1A distal enhancer were identified. The commonest was the Chr10:g.23508437A>G mutation (n = 18). Two patients were homozygous for the novel Chr10:g.23508336A>G mutation. Birthweight was often low (median SDS = -3.4). The majority of patients presented with diabetes soon after birth (median age of diagnosis: 5 days). Only 2/30 presented after 6 months of age. All patients had exocrine pancreatic insufficiency. Five had developmental delay (4 mild) on long-term follow-up. Previously undescribed common features in our cohort were transiently elevated ferritin level (n = 12/12 tested), anemia (19/25), and cholestasis (14/24). Postnatal growth was impaired (median height SDS: -2.35, median BMI SDS: -0.52 SDS) with 20/29 (69%) cases having growth retardation.

CONCLUSION

We report the largest series of patients with diabetes caused by PTF1A enhancer mutations. Our results expand the disease phenotype, identifying recurrent extrapancreatic features which likely reflect long-term intestinal malabsorption.

Neonatal diabetes due to homozygous INS gene promoter mutations: Highly variable phenotype, remission and early relapse during the first 3 years of life

Neonatal diabetes mellitus (NDM) is a rare form of monogenic diabetes presenting within the first 6 months of life. INS gene promoter mutations have been shown to cause both remitting/relapsing and permanent NDM. We, herein, present three interesting patients with INS gene promoter mutations. Two cousins with an identical homozygous c.-331C > G mutation presented with NDM. The first cousin had nonremitting diabetes and still requires multidose insulin injections at the current age of 6.1 years. However, the other cousin's diabetes remitted at the age of 9 months, and she is still in remission at the age of 3 years with no medication or dietary intervention required (latest HbA1c was 4.9%). The third patient had NDM also due to a homozygous INS promoter c.-331C>A mutation. Her diabetes remitted at the age of 2 months and relapsed at the age of 2.6 years with severe diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). Distinct clinical phenotype and relapse with severe DKA in one of the three cases suggest that INS promotor mutations can cause a heterogeneous phenotype and even cases exhibiting remission can relapse unpredictably. Therefore, as the age of relapse is unpredictable, close follow-up and family education on diabetes symptoms are essential for cases with remitting/relapsing diabetes due to INS gene mutations.

Accurate Detection of Non-Cavitated Proximal Caries in Posterior Permanent Teeth: An in vivo Study

Purpose

This study aimed to compare the sensitivity and specificity of DIAGNOdent versus bitewing radiographs in detecting non-cavitated proximal caries.

Patients and Methods

This observational prospective study included 120 proximal surfaces, without obvious cavitation, on permanent mandibular and maxillary posterior teeth in patients over 16 years old. The DIAGNOdent test was performed, and digital bitewing radiographs were obtained; these were compared with a standard reference method, which comprised a clinical assessment of the proximal surfaces following the application of an orthodontic separator between the teeth for 7 days. Each test was performed by a different investigator blinded to the assessment results of the other examiners.

Results

The DIAGNOdent device exhibited a higher sensitivity in detecting enamel proximal caries (95%) than digital bitewing radiographs (64%), and the specificity of DIAGNOdent (89%) was greater than that of bitewing radiographs (77%). Regarding the detection of dentin caries, the sensitivities of DIAGNOdent and bitewing radiographs were similar (both 62%); however, the specificity of DIAGNOdent was higher (98% versus 88%). The results of the Kruskal–Wallis test revealed a significant difference in DIAGNOdent scores across the three diagnoses (sound tooth surfaces, enamel caries, dentin caries) (p-value <0.001).

Conclusion

The diagnostic accuracy of DIAGNOdent in detecting enamel caries is significantly higher than that of digital bitewing radiography. The routine use of DIAGNOdent can facilitate an accurate diagnosis of early carious lesions and inform the implementation of preventive treatment.

Validity of Six Month L-Thyroxine Dose for Differentiation of Transient or Permanent Congenital Hypothyroidism

OBJECTIVE

The tendency to reduce thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) referral cut-off values in congenital hypothyroidism (CH) neonatal screening programs has resulted in an increase in the incidence of CH, but also the referral of infants with mild transient elevation of TSH. Therefore, there is a need to develop markers for differentiation of transient elevated TSH and permanent CH as early as safely possible to avoid unnecessary treatment. The aim was to evaluate sixth-month L-thyroxine (LT4) dose as a predictive marker for differentiation of transient elevated TSH and permanent CH.

METHODS

Data of patients who had been followed after referral from the neonatal screening programme between the year 2010 and 2019 in a tertiary pediatric endocrine centre were examined retrospectively.

RESULTS

There were 226 cases referred, of whom 186 (82.3%) had eutopic thyroid gland, and 40 (17.7%) had dysgenetic gland. In patients with a dysgentic gland there was a non-significant tendency to have lower diagnostic free thyroxine concentration but significantly higher TSH compared with those with eutopic gland (p=0.44 and p=0.023, respectively). Patients with thyroid dysgenesis required higher initial and six month LT4 doses compared with those with eutopic glands (p=0.001). Receiver operator curve analysis showed the optimum cut-off value for LT4 at six months for transient vs. permanent CH was 2 μg/kg/day (sensitivity 77% and specificity 55%), regardless of etiology. Similarly, in patients with eutopic glands the optimum cut-off value for LT4 dose at six months for permanent vs. transient patients was 2 μg/kg/day (sensitivity 72% and specificity 54%).

CONCLUSION

Results suggest that LT4 requirement at six months of therapy may be a good marker for predicting transient TSH elevation in patients with eutopic thyroid gland, thus facilitating the decision to halt LT4 therapy.

Sequelae of premature loss of lower permanent molars on developing occlusion during the mixed dentition period-A radiographic evaluation

When planning extraction of teeth with poor prognosis especially lower first permanent molars, it is important to consider the timing of tooth removal and its effect on future occlusion to avoid interventions.

Clinical Performance of Non-Carious Cervical Restorations Restored with the "Sandwich Technique" and Composite Resin: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

PURPOSE

To compare the retention rates of non-carious cervical restorations (NCCLs) constructed using the sandwich technique (a lining of glass-ionomer cement [GIC] or resin-modified glass-ionomer cement [RMGIC] and composite resin [CR]) with CR-only restorations.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The search was performed in various databases, including the Cochrane Library, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Gray literature was inspected, as were ongoing and unpublished abstracts from the IADR (1990-2017). Study quality was evaluated using the Cochrane Collaboration bias risk tool. Data from primary and secondary outcomes were meta-analyzed at 1-, 2- and 3-year follow-ups using the random effects model. The quality of the body of evidence was assessed using the GRADE approach.

RESULTS

Initially, a total of 3645 articles were selected. After selection by titles, abstracts, and full texts, 6 articles were retrieved, but three were follow-ups of the same RCT. Therefore, a total of four studies remained for analysis. All studies were at unclear risk for bias. Among all outcomes, only loss of retention was lower for the sandwich technique at the 3-year follow-up (risk ratio [RR]: 7.5; 95% CI: 2.1 to 27.2; p = 0.002).

CONCLUSIONS

Based on the limited number of available studies, higher retention rates in NCCL restorations were observed with the sandwich technique compared to CR-only restorations at the 3-year follow-up. Secondary outcomes were not influenced by the restorative technique. Except for retention rates, which were of moderate quality, the evidence quality of all secondary outcomes was low.

Immediate and long-term need for permanent cardiac pacing following aortic valve replacement

Introduction: Atrioventricular (AV) node conduction disturbances are common following surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR), and in some cases the patient needs a permanent pacemaker (PPM) implantation before discharge from hospital. Little is known about the long-term need for PPM and the PPM dependency of these individuals. We determined the incidence of PPM implantation before and after discharge in SAVR patients. Methods: We studied 557 consecutive patients who underwent SAVR for aortic stenosis in Iceland between 2002 and 2016. Timing and indication for PPM were registered, with a new concept, ventricular pacing proportion (VPP), defined as ventricular pacing ≥90% of the time, being used to approximate pacemaker dependency. The median follow-up time was 73 months. We plotted the cumulative incidence of pacemaker implantation, treating death as a competing risk. Results: Of the 557 patients, 22 (3.9%) received PPM in the first 30 days after surgery, most commonly for complete AV block (n = 14) or symptomatic bradycardia (n = 8); Thirty-eight other patients (6.8%) had a PPM implanted >30 days postoperatively, at a median of 43 months after surgery (range 0‒181), most often for AV block (n = 13) or sick-sinus syndrome (n = 10). The cumulative incidence of PPM implantation at 1, 5, and 10 years postoperatively was 5.0%, 9.2%, and 12.3%, respectively. During follow-up, 45.0% of the 60 patients had VPP ≥90%. Conclusion: The cumulative incidence of permanent pacemaker implantation following SAVR was about 12% at 10 years, with every other patient having VPP ≥90% during follow-up. This suggests that AV node conduction disturbances extend significantly beyond the perioperative period.

Transient versus Permanent MCA Occlusion in Mice Genetically Modified to Have Good versus Poor Collaterals

Collateral-dependent blood flow is capable of significantly lessening the severity of stroke. Unfortunately, collateral flow varies widely in patients for reasons that remain unclear. Studies in mice have shown that the number and diameter of cerebral collaterals vary widely due primarily to polymorphisms in genes, e.g., Rabep2, involved in their formation during development. However, understanding how variation in collateral abundance affects stroke progression has been hampered by lack of a method to reversibly ligate the distal middle cerebral artery (MCAO) in mice. Here we present a method and examine infarct volume 24 h after transient (tMCAO, 90 min) versus permanent occlusion (pMCAO) in mice with good versus poor collaterals. Wildtype C57BL/6 mice (have abundant collaterals) sustained small infarctions following tMCAO that increased 2.1-fold after pMCAO, reflecting significant penumbra present at 90 min. Mutant C57BL/6 mice lacking Rabep2 (have reduced collaterals) sustained a 4-fold increase in infarct volume over WT following tMCAO and a smaller additional increase (0.4-fold) after pMCAO, reflecting reduced penumbra. Wildtype BALB/cBy (have a deficient Rabep2 variant and poor collaterals) had large infarctions following tMCAO that increased less (0.6-fold) than the above wildtype C57BL/6 mice following pMCAO. Mutant BALB/cBy mice (have deficient Rabep2 replaced with the C57BL/6 variant thus increased collaterals) sustained smaller infarctions after tMCAO. However, unlike C57BL/6 versus Rabep2 mice, penumbra was not increased since infarct volume increased only 0.3-fold following pMCAO. These findings present a murine model of tMCAO and demonstrate that neuroprotective mechanisms, in addition to collaterals, also vary with genetic background and affect the evolution of stroke.

Direct composite resin restorations for teeth with dental erosion: a case report

Acid erosion should be treated according to its multifactorial etiology. This case report describes a patient with tooth wear caused by daily intake of acidic carbonated beverages. After meticulous clinical and radiographic analysis, the clinician restored the teeth temporarily with chemically cured glass ionomer cement. Afterward, the patient underwent basic periodontal therapy with scaling and coronal polishing. The patient received guidance regarding daily oral hygiene and eating habits to control the ingestion of acidic drinks. After reestablishing adequate oral conditions, the clinician placed direct composite resin restorations on the maxillary anterior teeth that displayed dental erosion. The clinical procedures improved the patient's oral health as well as the form, esthetics, and function of the worn teeth.

Nonsyphilitic occurrence of mulberry molars: A rare case report

Developmental defects of enamel may range from slight abnormalities of the tooth's color, shape and size to a complete absence of the enamel. Permanent first molar may show large variations in their morphological features and forms. Such changes may be in the form of anomalous cusps or variations in the occlusal surface showing globular shaped additional cusps and also increased in number of roots. However, to the best of our knowledge, this is the first nonsyphilitic case with the occurrence of multiple globular cusps. In the present case, occlusal anatomy is abnormal, with numerous disorganized globular projections involving all four permanent first molars. The projections of 2 mm × 2 mm in size and globular in shape were seen in the maxillary and mandibular cast. The features resemble the surface of mulberry and hence diagnosed as mulberry molars.

Impact of crown fracture treatment on oral health-related quality of life of children, adolescents, and their families: A prospective clinical study

BACKGROUND

Enamel-dentin fracture causes impact on the oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) of children.

AIM

To evaluate the impact of treatment of crown fracture involving enamel and dentin (CFED) in the permanent dentition on the OHRQoL of children and adolescents (C/As) and their families.

DESIGN

This prospective clinical study included C/As between 8 and 14 years who presented anterior CFED treated thought direct composite resin restoration. Their parents/caregivers (P/Cs) were also invited to take part of the study. The quality of life was evaluated thought the Child Perceptions Questionnaires (CPQ_8-10  and CPQ_11-14 ), Parental-Caregiver Perceptions Questionnaire (P-CPQ), and Familiar Impact Scale (FIS), applied before and 3 months after the restorative procedure. T test for dependent samples and Wilcoxon test were applied(P < 0.05).

RESULTS

Of 32 C/As included, 30 completed the study. The treatment of CFED reduced the negative impact in OHRQoL of C/As (CPQ_8-10 P = 0.0065; CPQ_11-14 P = 0.0486; P-CPQ, P = 0.0259), specially for "oral symptoms" (CPQ_8-10 , P = 0.0003; P-CPQ, P = 0.0455) and "emotional well-being" (CPQ_11-14 , P = 0.0431). Concerning the families' perceptions, the treatment did not influence OHRQoL both in terms of the domains and total FIS score (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Restorative treatment of CFED increases the OHRQoL of C/As but not influence the OHRQoL of their families.

Physical and photoelastic properties of bulk-fill and conventional composites

Purpose

This study evaluated the influence of thickness increment on degree of conversion (DC), Knoop microhardness (KHN), and polymerization-shrinkage stress (PSS) by photoelasticity of three dental composites.

Methods

For DC and KHN, 45 samples were prepared and divided into nine groups (n=5), according to composite (microhybrid [Filtek Z250 - Z250], bulk-fill flowable [SureFil SDR Flow - SDR], and nanohybrid composite [N’Durance - NDU]) and increment thickness (1, 1.5, and 3 mm). PSS was measured by photoelastic analysis. Composites were placed into a photo-elastic model cavity and light-cured. DC and KHN data were subjected to two-way ANOVA and Bonferroni post hoc test. PSS results were qualitatively evaluated through Kruskal–Wallis test.

Results

SDR showed the highest DC values. At top and bottom surfaces, the highest KHN was obtained by Z250. Z250 showed higher PSS than SDR in 1.5 mm increments. NDU showed higher PSS than SDR in 3 mm increments.

Conclusion

The bulk-fill composite demonstrated better DC and similar KHN and PSS in deeper layers compared to conventional composites. Bulk-fill composites may perform as well as conventional nanohybrid and microhybrid composites.

Contribution of systemic inflammation to permanence of KATP-induced neonatal diabetes in mice

Gain-of-function (GOF) mutations in the ATP-sensitive potassium (K_ATP) channels cause neonatal diabetes. Despite the well-established genetic root of the disease, pathways modulating disease severity and treatment effectiveness remain poorly understood. Patient phenotypes can vary from severe diabetes to remission, even in individuals with the same mutation and within the same family, suggesting that subtle modifiers can influence disease outcome. We have tested the underlying mechanism of transient vs. permanent neonatal diabetes in K_ATP-GOF mice treated for 14 days with glibenclamide. Some K_ATP-GOF mice show remission of diabetes and enhanced insulin sensitivity long after diabetes treatment has ended, while others maintain severe insulin-resistance. However, insulin sensitivity is not different between the two groups before or during diabetes induction, suggesting that improved sensitivity is a consequence, rather than the cause of, remission, implicating other factors modulating glucose early in diabetes progression. Leptin, glucagon, insulin, and glucagon-like peptide-1 are not different between remitters and nonremitters. However, liver glucose production is significantly reduced before transgene induction in remitter, relative to nonremitter and nontreated, mice. Surprisingly, while subsequent remitter animals exhibited normal serum cytokines, nonremitter mice showed increased cytokines, which paralleled the divergence in blood glucose. Together, these results suggest that systemic inflammation may play a role in the remitting versus non-remitting outcome. Supporting this conclusion, treatment with the anti-inflammatory meloxicam significantly increased the fraction of remitting animals. Beyond neonatal diabetes, the potential for inflammation and glucose production to exacerbate other forms of diabetes from a compensated state to a glucotoxic state should be considered.

Frequency of crown and root dilaceration of permanent incisors after dental trauma to their predecessor teeth

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Dental trauma to the predecessor teeth can cause crown and root dilacerations to the successor teeth, which can interfere with the normal development of permanent teeth. The aims of this study were to verify the types of trauma more frequent to the predecessor teeth that cause dilaceration to their successor teeth, to determine the frequency of crown and root dilacerations in permanent incisors, taking into account the child's age at the time of trauma, and to describe the types of treatment performed.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Details of 815 anterior primary teeth with dental injury were obtained from 483 dental records of children aged 0-9 years at the time of trauma.

RESULTS

Of 815 traumatized primary teeth, 161 successor teeth were clinically and radiographically reviewed until complete eruption and had some type of sequel. Avulsion and intrusive luxation were the most frequent types of trauma to the predecessor teeth that caused dilaceration to their successor teeth. Enamel discoloration (30.4%), hypoplasia (23.6%), root (14.3%) and crown (9.9%) dilacerations were the most common sequelae observed in the successor teeth. Root and crown dilacerations were more frequent in children aged more than and up to 3 years, respectively. Tooth extraction and orthodontic treatment were the most common treatments.

CONCLUSIONS

Dentists must be aware of the relationship between the child's age at the time of trauma to the predecessor tooth and the type of sequel to the successor tooth in order to diagnose, monitor, and treat the sequel properly.

Persistent Alopecia in a Breast Cancer Patient Following Taxane Chemotherapy and Adjuvant Endocrine Therapy: Case Report and Review of Post-treatment Hair Loss in Oncology Patients with Breast Cancer

Taxane chemotherapy and adjuvant endocrine therapy are commonly used in breast cancer patients following surgery. We describe a 59-year-old woman with a triple-positive invasive right breast cancer that was treated with surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, and adjuvant hormonal therapy. She subsequently developed scalp alopecia, with histopathological features of both androgenetic alopecia and alopecia areata; the hair loss did not resolve after completion of her chemotherapy. Significant clinical improvement was observed with topical minoxidil therapy. PubMed was searched for the following terms: alopecia, breast, cancer, chemotherapy, endocrine, hair, loss, minoxidil, permanent, and taxane. The papers containing these terms and their references were reviewed. Temporary hair loss is frequently observed following taxane chemotherapy; however, albeit uncommon, persistent or permanent alopecia may occur in women with breast cancer who have been treated with taxane chemotherapy and endocrine therapy. It may be reasonable to initiate therapy with topical minoxidil in breast cancer patients who develop alopecia after treatment with either taxane chemotherapy or endocrine therapy alone or both.

Clinical evaluation of the multifunctional suprapubic catheter in patients requiring permanent suprapubic cystostomy: A prospective randomised trial in a single centre

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

To assess the clinical effect of the multifunctional suprapubic catheter (MSC) on occurrence of cystospasm, catheter occlusion, the catheter-related urinary tract infection and remission of overactivity bladder, by comparing with the conventional suprapubic catheter (CSC) in patients with permanent suprapubic cystostomy.

BACKGROUND

The conventional suprapubic catheter usually presents with high incidence of catheter-associated complications.

DESIGN

A prospective randomised clinical trial in a single centre.

METHODS

Between January 2014 and January 2015, a total of 91 consecutive patients with permanent suprapubic cystostomy were prospectively randomised into two groups: the MSC group (n = 43) and CSC group (n = 48).

RESULTS

Our results showed that the total times of cystospasm in the MSC group were significantly less than that in the CSC group during the follow-up time (p < .001). In addition, the mean spasmodic duration per time in the MSC group was significantly shorter than that in the CSC group (p < .001). Besides, catheter occlusions were observed in 23 (25.27%) patients, including 5 (11.63%) in the MSC group and 18 (37.50%) in the CSC group (p = .005). The lower rate of positive urine culture was also found in the MSC group but with no significant difference (p = .540). Furthermore, the urodynamic measurement data demonstrated that the patients in the MSC group had a greater remission rate of overactivity bladder after catheter change (p < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

The present data showed that the multifunctional suprapubic catheter could significantly reduce the incidence of catheter occlusion, ameliorate the symptom of cystospasm and relieve the overactivity bladder, but have no influence on the catheter-related urinary tract infection.

RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE

The application of our self-devised multifunctional suprapubic catheter may result in better management of the patients with permanent suprapubic cystostomy.

Agenesis of permanent canines: Rare case report

Agenesis of permanent canines is a rare condition, and that of both maxillary and mandibular permanent canines is extremely rare. It may occur either isolated or in association with other dental anomalies. Reports of such cases are very scarce in the literature. Need for early diagnosis of such conditions should be emphasized because of functional, esthetic, and psychological problems which should be evaluated and treated appropriately. The present paper presents a report of bilaterally missing permanent maxillary and mandibular canines. This case might contribute in the future studies of incidence of agenesis of permanent canines.

Three-year follow-up of children with abnormal newborn screening results for congenital hypothyroidism

BACKGROUND

To analyze predictive factors suggesting transient congenital hypothyroidism (TCH) compared to permanent congenital hypothyroidism (PCH) or transient thyroid function test (TFT) abnormalities among children who had positive screening results at our centers over the past decade.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review of 105 subjects who presented elevated TSH levels on a newborn screening test (NST) was done. TCH was defined when a trial-off therapy was successful, and PCH was defined when a trial failed or when the subject was kept on medication beyond 3 years of age. A transient TFT abnormality was defined when follow-up TFTs were normalized without levothyroxine (LT4) therapy.

RESULTS

Congenital hypothyroidism (CH) was diagnosed in 75.2% (TCH 35.2% and PCH 40.0%) of all subjects; the others (24.8%) showed transient TFT abnormalities. Initial NST-TSH levels (optimal cutoff point, 31.0 μIU/mL), the LT4 dose at 2 years of age (4.1 μg/kg/day), and the maximal LT4 dose (50 μg/day) merged as significant predictive factors discriminating between TCH and PCH. The initial serum level of free T4 (1.06 ng/dL) and not TSH (27.2 μIU/mL) was the only discriminating factor between transient TFT abnormalities and TCH.

CONCLUSION

Earlier re-evaluation might be possible when a patient's initial NST-TSH levels and maximal or 2-year LT4 doses are low, as both are important predictors of successful trial-off therapy in CH patients. When the initial serum level of free T4 is above the average value in neonates with mildly elevated TSH levels, TFTs may be more likely to normalize on their own.

Patterns of dental caries among school children assessed using Caries Assessment Spectrum and Treatment tool

Objective:

The present study aimed to assess and monitor patterns of dental caries among primary and permanent molars using Caries Assessment Spectrum and Treatment (CAST) index and to evaluate integration of CAST tool into patient health information (PHI) system of a Teaching Dental Hospital.

Materials and Methods:

Dental records of n = 348 children, aged 7–9-years, attending University Dental Hospital Sharjah, for routine checkup and treatment as part of School Dental Program were assessed and translated into CAST codes. Dental caries prevalence for the second primary and first permanent molars were recorded. Spearman's correlation coefficient was used to assess the correlation of the status between primary and permanent molar.

Results:

CAST codes 0–2 were observed only in about 3% of primary and almost 5% in permanent dentition. The prevalence of children with diseased first permanent molar (codes 4–7) was almost 67%, while it was over 70% in second primary molars. A strong correlations were observed in the status between second primary and first permanent molars in the lower jaw on both right and left sides, r was 0.694 and 0.643 (P = 0.001), respectively. In the upper jaw, both right and left second primary molars revealed moderate correlation r = 0.435 (P ≤ 0.05) between disease stages with their neighboring permanent first molars. The unweighted kappa value for the intraexaminer reliability was 0.97 for second primary and 0.95 for first permanent molars.

Conclusion:

Our study recommends the integration of CAST tool in the PHI system where a simple numerical value can express clinical progress, overcome interruptions of treatment, and ensures continuity of patient care in teaching hospitals.

Primary cicatricial alopecia: Lymphocytic primary cicatricial alopecias, including chronic cutaneous lupus erythematosus, lichen planopilaris, frontal fibrosing alopecia, and Graham-Little syndrome

Both primary and secondary forms of cicatricial alopecia have been described. The hair follicles are the specific target of inflammation in primary cicatricial alopecias. Hair follicles are destroyed randomly with surrounding structures in secondary cicatricial alopecia. This 2-part continuing medical education article will review primary cicatricial alopecias according to the working classification suggested by the North American Hair Research Society. In this classification, the different entities are classified into 3 different groups according to their prominent inflammatory infiltrate (ie, lymphocytic, neutrophilic, and mixed). Part I discusses the following lymphocytic primary cicatricial alopecias: chronic cutaneous lupus erythematosus, lichen planopilaris, frontal fibrosing alopecia, and Graham-Little syndrome.

Primary cicatricial alopecia: Other lymphocytic primary cicatricial alopecias and neutrophilic and mixed primary cicatricial alopecias

Primary cicatricial alopecias can be frustrating for both patients and physicians. Proper diagnosis guides more successful management of these challenging conditions. Part II will cover the remaining lymphocytic primary cicatricial alopecias, which include pseudopelade of Brocq, central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia, alopecia mucinosa, and keratosis follicularis spinulosa decalvans. It will also discuss the neutrophilic and mixed primary cicatricial alopecias, namely folliculitis decalvans, dissecting cellulitis, folliculitis keloidalis, folliculitis (acne) necrotica, and erosive pustular dermatosis.

Transient versus Permanent Congenital Hypothyroidism after the Age of 3 Years in Infants Detected on the First versus Second Newborn Screening Test in Oregon, USA

BACKGROUND/AIMS

The newborn screening (NBS) program in Oregon, USA, collects two routine specimens in all infants. The aim of our study was to determine the incidence of permanent versus transient congenital hypothyroidism (CH) in infants detected on the first versus second screening test.

METHODS

Thyroid function was determined in infants after the age of 3 years diagnosed with CH and born in Oregon between 2005 and 2011. Permanent hypothyroidism was defined as a TSH rise >10 mIU/ml after the first year on treatment or a TSH rise >6 mIU/ml with temporary discontinuation of l-thyroxine after the age of 3 years.

RESULTS

Of the cases detected on the first test, 72 of 87 (83%) were permanent and 15 of 87 (17%) were transient, while of the cases detected on the second test, 5 of 22 (23%) were permanent and 17 of 22 (77%) were transient (OR 16.3, p < 0.001). There was a female preponderance detected on the first screen versus a male preponderance on the second screen. Blood spot and serum thyroid function tests at diagnosis, before treatment, were not meaningfully different between the two groups. The mean l-thyroxine dose at the age of 3 years was greater on the first screen: 61.2 versus 36.6 μg/day.

CONCLUSIONS

Infants detected on the second NBS specimen have a higher incidence of transient CH. © 2016 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Comparison of permanent (125)I seeds implants with two different techniques in 500 cases of prostate cancer

Purpose

To perform a comparative study of 500 consecutive ¹²⁵I seeds implants for intracapsular prostate carcinoma with two techniques differing in terms of both strand implantation and planning.

Material and methods

From 2002 to 2007 we performed 250 implants with fixed stranded seeds (RapidStrand™) and a preplanning system and from 2007 to 2010, 250 with real-time and ProLink™ system. Mean age was 68 and 66, respectively, median PSA (prostate-specific antigen) 7.3 and 7.2, stage T1-T2a in 98% and 94%, and Gleason ≤ 6 in 96% and 86%. Low risk cases were 81% and 71%. The prescribed dose was 145 Gy to the prostate volume, or 108 Gy plus EBRT 46 Gy in some intermediate risk cases. Hormonal treatment was given to 42% and 28%.

Results

Median follow-up was 48 and 47 months, respectively, 14 patients in the first group and 7 patients in the second developed biochemical failure (BF). Actuarial biochemical relapse-free survival (bRFS) at 5 years increased from 90.2% to 97.2% (low risk from 91.3% to 97.2%, intermediate risk from 84.2% to 97.1%). Biochemical failure was independent of hormone treatment. Rectal complications were G1-2 in 1.2% and 5.2%, respectively. A urinary catheter was necessary in 6.9% and 9.6%, and urethral resection in 1.9% and 4.4%. Genitourinary toxicity was G1-2 in 4.6% and 12%, G3-4 in 1.9% and 4.8%. An assessment of mean D₉₀ in a sample of patients showed that the dosimetry in postoperative planning based on CT improved from a mean D₉₀ of 143 Gy to 157 Gy.

Conclusions

The outcome of patients with low risk prostate carcinoma treated with ¹²⁵I seed is very good with low complications rate. The real-time approach in our hands achieved a more precise seed implantation, better dosimetry, and a statistically non-significant better biochemical control. We have made this our standard technique.

Genetic influences on dental enamel that impact caries differ between the primary and permanent dentitions

Clinically, primary and permanent teeth are distinct anatomically and the presentation of caries lesions differs between the two dentitions. Hence, the possibility exists that genetic contributions to tooth formation of the two dentitions are different. The purpose of this study was to test the hypothesis that genetic associations with an artificial caries model will not be the same between primary and permanent dentitions. Enamel samples from primary and permanent teeth were tested for microhardness at baseline, after carious lesion creation, and after fluoride application to verify association with genetic variants of selected genes. Associations were found between genetic variants of ameloblastin, amelogenin, enamelin, tuftelin, tuftelin interactive protein 11, and matrix metallopeptidase 20 and enamel from permanent teeth but not with enamel from primary teeth. In conclusion, our data continue to support that genetic variation may impact enamel development and consequently individual caries susceptibility. These effects may be distinct between primary and permanent dentitions.

Does Timing of Eruption in First Primary Tooth Correlate with that of First Permanent Tooth? A 9-years Cohort Study

Background and aims. Predicting the teeth eruption time is a valuable tool in pediatric dentistry since it can affects scheduling dental and orthodontic treatments. This study investigated the relationship between the eruption time of first primary and permanent teeth and the variation in the eruption time considering socioeconomic status (SES) in a 9-year population- based cohort study.

Materials and methods. 307 subjects were examined at bimonthly intervals during the first and second years of life and then at six-month intervals until the eruption of first permanent tooth. Eruption times of primary and permanent tooth were recorded for each child. A modified form of Kuppuswamy’s scale was used to assess the SES.

Results. Among 267 subjects completed all follow-ups, the eruption time for first primary and permanent teeth indicated a direct strong correlation; in that one month delayed or early eruption of firstprimary tooth resulted in 4.21 months delayed or early eruption of first appearing permanent tooth (r = 0.91, n = 267, P <0.001). No significant correlation was observed between the eruption time of first primary and first permanent teeth and SES (P = 0.67, P = 0.75, respectively).

Conclusion. The eruption timing for the first primary tooth had a correlation with the first permanent tooth eruption tim-ing, while SES did not have any influence on eruption times.

Radiographic diagnosis of dental restoration misfit: a systematic review

The objective of this study was to perform a systematic review on the use of radiographic methods for the diagnosis of misfit in dental prostheses and restorations. The MEDLINE bibliographic database was searched from 1950 to February 2014 for reports on the radiographic diagnosis of misfits. The search strategy was limited to English-language publications using the following combined MeSH terms in the search strategy: (Dental Restoration OR Dental Prosthesis OR Crown OR Inlays OR Dental Abutments) and (Dental Leakage OR Prosthesis Fitting OR Dental Marginal Adaptation OR Surface Properties) and (Radiography, Dental OR Radiography, Dental, Digital OR Cone-Beam Computed Tomography). Twenty-eight publications were identified and read in full text, and 14 studies fulfilled criteria for inclusion. Information regarding the use of radiographic methods for the diagnosis of misfits in dental prosthesis and restorations, and in which the methodology/results comprised information regarding how the sample was collected/prepared, the method, imaging protocol, presence of a reference test and the outcomes were evaluated. QUADAS criteria was used to rate the studies in high, moderate or low quality. The evidence supporting the use of radiographic methods for the diagnosis of misfits in dental prosthesis and restorations is limited to low-/moderate-quality studies. The well-established intra-oral orthogonal projection is still under investigation and considered the most appropriate method, both when evaluating the relation between dental restoration to tooth and abutment to implant. Studies using digital radiographs have not evaluated the effect of image post-processing, and tomography has not been evaluated.

Prevalence and factors affecting use of long acting and permanent contraceptive methods in Jinka town, Southern Ethiopia: a cross sectional study

INTRODUCTION

In Ethiopia, knowledge of contraceptive methods is high though there is low contraceptive prevalence rate. This study was aimed to assess prevalence and associated factors of long acting and permanent contraceptive methods in Jinka town, southern Ethiopia.

METHODS

Community based cross sectional survey was conducted to assess the prevalence and factors affecting long acting and permanent methods of contraceptives utilization from March to April 2008. Eight hundred child bearing age women were participated in the quantitative study and 32 purposively selected focus group discussants were participated in the qualitative study. Face to face interview was used for data collection. Data were analyzed by SPSS version 13.0 statistical software. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression were computed to analyze the data.

RESULTS

The prevalence of long acting and permanent contraceptive method was 7.3%. Three fourth (76.1%) of the women have ever heard about implants and implant 28 (50%) were the most widely used method. Almost two third of women had intention to use long acting and permanent methods. Knowledge of contraceptive and age of women have significant association with the use of long acting and permanent contraceptive methods.

CONCLUSION

The overall prevalence of long acting and permanent contraceptive method was low. Knowledge of contraceptive and age of women have significant association with use of long acting and permanent contraceptive. Extensive health information should be provided.

High-field MRI and mercury release from dental amalgam fillings

Mercury is among the most toxic nonradioactive elements which may cause toxicity even at low doses. Some studies showed release of mercury from dental amalgam fillings in individuals who used mobile phone. This study was conducted to assess the effect of high-field MRI on mercury release from dental amalgam filling. We studied two groups of students with identical tooth decays requiring a similar pattern of restorative dentistry. They were exposed to a magnetic flux density of 1.5 T produced by a MRI machine. 16 otherwise healthy students with identical dental decay participated in this study. They underwent similar restorative dentistry procedures and randomly divided into two groups of MRI-exposed and control arms. Urinary concentrations of mercury in the control subjects were measured before (hour 0) and 48 and 72 hrs after amalgam restoration, using cold vapor atomic absorption spectrometry. Urinary concentrations of mercury in exposed individuals were determined before (hour 0), and 24, 48, 72 and 96 hrs after amalgam restoration. Unlike control subjects, they underwent conventional brain MRI (15 min, 99 slices), 24 hrs after amalgam restoration. The mean±SD urinary mercury levels in MRI-exposed individuals increased linearly from a baseline value of 20.70±17.96 to 24.83±22.91 μg/L 72 hrs after MRI. In the control group, the concentration decreased linearly from 20.70±19.77 to 16.14±20.05 μg/L. The difference between urinary mercury in the exposed and control group, 72 hrs after MRI (96 h after restoration),was significant (p=0.046). These findings provide further support for the noxious effect of MRI (exposure to strong magnetic field)and release of mercury from dental amalgam fillings.

Etiology of congenital hypothyroidism in Isfahan: Does it different?

Background:

Considering the higher prevalence of congenital hypothyroidism (CH) in Iran and the importance of determination of the etiology of CH for assessing appropriate treatment strategies, understanding the pathogenesis of CH and the implications of its inheritance and prognosis, the aim of this study was to determine the etiology of CH 7 years after initiation of the program in Isfahan province.

Materials and Methods:

In this cross-sectional study, children with a primary diagnosis of CH studied. They clinically examined and their medical files were reviewed by a Pediatric Endocrinologist. Considering screening and follow-up lab data and radiologic findings the etiology of CH was determined. Screening properties of different etiologies of CH was compared.

Results:

In this study, 437 patients with permanent CH (PCH) were studied. Etiology of PCH in 316 (72.3%) and 121 (27.7%) of cases was thyroid dyshormonogenesis and thyroid dysgenesis, respectively. Prevalence of agenesis, ectopia, hypoplasia and hemiagenesis in thyroid dysgenetic patients was 13.3%, 6.4%, 4.3% and 3.7% respectively. Mean of thyroid stimulating hormone in screening, recall and after discontinuing treatment at 3 years of age was significantly lower in dyshormonogenetic CH patients than dysgenetic ones(P < 0.01).

Conclusion:

Seven years of our experiences in CH screening program indicated that the etiology of CH in Isfahan, with a higher rate of CH, with a predominance of thyroid dyshormonogenesis is different from most of the studies world-wide and similar to other reports from Iran. The findings of the current study provide us baseline information for determination of CH pathogenesis in this region.

Avoiding permanent atrial fibrillation: treatment approaches to prevent disease progression

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common sustained arrhythmia and a major global public health problem due to its associated morbidity, including stroke and heart failure, diminished quality of life, and increased mortality. AF often presents initially in a paroxysmal form and may progress to a more sustained form over time. Evidence from randomized controlled trials suggests that there may be no mortality benefit to using a rhythm control approach in comparison with rate control of AF. Nevertheless, sustained forms of AF may be associated with increased symptoms and cardiovascular morbidity, and consequently they remain an additional target for therapy. The present review evaluates the clinical correlates of arrhythmia progression and risk stratification techniques available to assess probability of AF progression. Further, currently available management options for arrhythmia control in AF are evaluated and their therapeutic effect and efficacy on disease progression are explored.

Prevalence of permanent congenital hypothyroidism in isfahan-iran

BACKGROUND

Considering the importance to determine the reasons for the higher occurrence of congenital hypothyroidism (CH) in Iran, in this study we report the prevalence of permanent CH (PCH) in Isfahan province 7 years after initiation of CH screening program in Isfahan.

METHODS

In this cross-sectional study, children with a primary diagnosis of CH studied. They clinically examined and their medical files were reviewed by a pediatric endocrinologist. Considering screening and follow-up lab data, radiologic findings and the decision of pediatric endocrinologists the final diagnosis of PCH was determined.

RESULTS

A total of 464,648 neonates screened in Isfahan province. The coverage percent of the CH screening and recall rate was 98.9% and 2.1%, respectively. A total of 1990 neonates were diagnosed with primary CH. PCH was diagnosed in 410 neonates. The prevalence of PCH and transient CH (TCH) was 1 in 1133 and 1 in 294 live births. The most common etiology of CH was thyroid dyshormonogenesis.

CONCLUSIONS

Though the prevalence of PCH is high, but the higher prevalence of CH in Isfahan is commonly due to cases with TCH. Hence, the necessity of determining new strategies for earlier diagnosis of patients with TCH is recommended.

A study on the eruption timing of permanent dentition in patients with cerebral palsy

PURPOSE

This study aimed to determine the average eruption time and sequence of permanent teeth in patients with cerebral palsy (CP) and to compare the results with the established norms for Iranian subjects.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study comprised of 207 individuals with CP, 96 boys and 111 girls, ranging from 6 to 19 years. The average age at eruption of permanent teeth, excluding third molars, was given as the mean (± SD) and median in years for each gender. A table of percentiles of the eruption time was also determined. Comparisons were made using t-test at a significance level of 0.05.

RESULTS

The sequence of eruption in children with CP was almost similar to the normal. With the exception of the second premolar and the second molar, tooth eruption was advanced in girls compared with boys. There was no difference between the left and right sides of each arch. Mandibular teeth had an earlier eruption time than maxillary teeth except for the second premolar. In general, eruption times of children with CP were later (1-33 months) than those reported previously for healthy children.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite the almost similar sequence of eruption, a high tendency to delayed eruption of permanent dentition was observed in children with CP.

Prevalence of transient congenital hypothyroidism in central part of Iran

BACKGROUND

Congenital hypothyroidism (CH) considered a common endocrine disorder in Iran. We report the epidemiologic findings of CH screening program in Isfahan, seven years after its development, regarding the prevalence of transient CH (TCH) and its screening properties comparing with permanent CH (PCH).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this cross-sectional study, children with primary diagnosis of CH were studied. Considering screening and follow-up lab data and the decision of pediatric endocrinologists, the final diagnosis of TCH was determined.

RESULTS

A total of 464,648 neonates were screened. The coverage percent of the CH screening and recall rate was 98.9 and 2.1%, respectively. Out of which, 1,990 neonates were diagnosed with primary CH. TCH was diagnosed in 1,580 neonates. The prevalence of TCH was 1 in 294 live births. 79.4% of patients with primary CH had TCH. Mean of screening (54.7 ± 59.0 in PCH vs 21.8 ± 28.9 in TCH), recall (56.5 ± 58.8 in PCH vs 36.6 ± 45.0 in TCH), and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) and mean of TSH before (2.0 ± 2.9 in PCH vs 1.6 ± 1.6 in TCH) and after (37.7 ± 29.5 in PCH vs 4.3 ± 1.9 in TCH) discontinuing treatment at 3 years of age was significantly higher in PCH than TCH (P < 0.0000).

CONCLUSION

The higher rate of CH in Isfahan is mainly due to the transient form of the disease. Further studies for evaluating the role of other environmental, autoimmune and/or genetic factors in the pathophysiology of the disease is warranted.

Reasons for and patterns relating to the extraction of permanent teeth in a subset of the Saudi population

Background

The purpose of this study was to investigate the reasons for and patterns of extraction of permanent teeth in a subset of the Saudi population.

Methods

During a 3-month period, dentists were asked to record, using a specially designed survey form, the reasons for every extraction of a permanent tooth. The reasons for tooth extraction were assigned to different causes, ie, dental caries, periodontal disease, eruption problems, trauma, orthodontics, failed root canal treatment, and others. The data requested for each extraction were: patient age, gender, nationality, and type of tooth removed and the reason for its extraction.

Results

The highest percentage of extractions was observed in young females aged 10–30 years. Presence of caries was observed to be the main reason for extraction (50.2%) followed by orthodontic problems (18.2%), eruption problems (17.5%), and periodontal problems (8.2%). The most frequently extracted posterior teeth were the third mandibular molar (19.4%), the third maxillary molar (16.4%), the first maxillary premolar (13.2%), and the first mandibular molar (10.9%).

Conclusion

Dental caries was found to be the most common reason for extraction of teeth. Molar teeth were found to be the most frequently extracted, with an increased number of extracted first premolars as a result of orthodontic treatment. The highest percentage of extractions was observed in young females aged 10–30 years.

Intelligence quotient in children with congenital hypothyroidism: The effect of diagnostic and treatment variables

BACKGROUND

Considering the high prevalence of congenital hypothyroidism (CH) in Isfahan, the intelligence quotient (IQ) of children with CH and the effect of diagnostic and treatment variables on it were investigated during the CH screening program.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 120 children in three studied groups were studied in this comparative study the IQ score, in three subsets of verbal IQ, performance IQ and full scale IQ, of children diagnosed with transient congenital hypothyroidism (TCH) and permanent congenital hypothyroidism (PCH) was measured using revised Wechsler pre-school and primary scale of intelligence and compared with the control group. The relation between IQ score with time of treatment initiation and screening thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) level was evaluated in all studied groups.

RESULTS

Mean of verbal IQ, performance IQ, and full scale IQ score was significantly higher in the control group than CH patients (both permanent and transient) In PCH patients though it was not significant, there was a negative relationship between verbal IQ, performance IQ and full scale IQ and screening TSH and age of treatment initiation. In TCH patients, there was negative and significant relationship between verbal IQ (r = -0.40) and full scale IQ (r = -0.38) and age of treatment initiation (r = -0.46).

CONCLUSION

Mean IQ score in both PCH and TCH patients were lower than the control group, which correlates negatively with treatment initiation time. Though CH screening and early treatment has improved the prognosis of patients, but early and high dose of treatment in children with CH is recommended.

Pre-donation deferral of blood donors in South Indian set-up: An analysis

Background:

It is well known that quite a large number of apparently healthy donors are not able to donate blood successfully because of varied reasons.

Aim:

We want to analyze the rate and various reasons for deferrals.

Materials and Methods:

A retrospective analysis of records of the donors, for 3 years, from January 2005 to December 2007 was done, in order to find out the rate and causes of deferral in four categories of age groups, both in male and female, in our Transfusion Medicine Centre, Bangalore, India.

Result:

There were 16,706 donors, of which 976 donors were deferred (5.84%) for various reasons. Of the 16,706 donors registered for donation, females constituted only 11.27%. And deferral rate was about five times more for female (19.85%) compared to male (4.06%). The three most common reasons for deferral in female were low hemoglobin levels, low body weight, and hypotension. The deferral rate was higher in the age group of 18-25 years and most common cause was low hemoglobin level. In male, the three most common reasons for deferral were hypertension, under weight, and low hemoglobin levels. The deferral rate varied from 4 to 15% as reported in the literature. The most common cause of deferral in our study and in several studies available in the literature is the same.