bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Organizational Changes and Development in Islamic Education Institutions Post Covid-19 Pandemic
Authors: Nikmatullah Cecep , Badrudin Badrudin , Fauzi Anis
Published: August 2023

The purpose of this research is the importance of organizational change and development in improving the organization's ability to adapt to environmental changes. This qualitative research with a literature approach is sourced from various literatures; journal articles, reference books, textbooks, and related documents. The findings show that organizational change and development in Islamic educational institutions after the COVID-19 pandemic can be designed through three aspects; changing attitudes/values, modifying behavior, and encouraging structural and policy changes. So it is necessary to develop organizational leadership to influence people to behave in accordance with the expectations of the leader, and adapt to the strategic environment of the organization. Post-pandemic, Islamic educational institutions must be oriented to three things; the use of Islamic reasoning based on the Qur'an and hadith, human resources (human needs), and technology. Online learning has a positive impact, teachers and students no longer rely on face-to-face learning because they are used to doing distance learning. The challenges of Islamic Educational Institutions in overcoming organizational change and development are; (1) consider the fundamental role. (2) pay attention to the function of the instrument as an educational tool. (3) there is a constructive role. The three roles are an effort to integrate components to realize Islamic education, make changes and organizational development on government policies through the nature, roles, responding to challenges and developments as well as post-pandemic technology
Central resources of variant discovery and annotation and its role in precision medicine
Authors: Halim-Fikri Hashim , Syed-Hassan Sharifah-Nany Rahayu-Karmilla , Wan-Juhari Wan-Khairunnisa , Assyuhada Mat Ghani Siti Nor , Hernaningsih Yetti , Yusoff Narazah Mohd , Merican Amir Feisal , Zilfalil Bin Alwi
Published: August 2023

Rapid technological advancement in high-throughput genomics, microarray, and deep sequencing technologies has accelerated the possibility of more complex precision medicine research using large amounts of heterogeneous health-related data from patients, including genomic variants. Genomic variants can be identified and annotated based on the reference human genome either within the sequence as a whole or in a putative functional genomic element. The American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ACMG) and the Association for Molecular Pathology (AMP) mutually created standards and guidelines for the appraisal of proof to expand consistency and straightforwardness in clinical variation interpretations. Various efforts toward precision medicine have been facilitated by many national and international public databases that classify and annotate genomic variation. In the present study, several resources are highlighted with recognition and data spreading of clinically important genetic variations.
Risk factors of transient tachypnea of the newborn developing into pulmonary hypertension of the newborn: a case-control study
Authors: Maneenil Gunlawadee , Janjindamai Waricha , Dissaneevate Supaporn , Thatrimontrichai Anucha
Published: August 2023

Background

Transient tachypnea of the newborn (TTN) is the consequence of delayed resorption of lung fluid. When TTN develops, the infant may develop severe hypoxemia and progress to persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn (PPHN).

Objectives

To examine factors associated with the development of PPHN in TTN infants.

Methods

This retrospective study comprised 23 infants in whom a diagnosis of TTN with PPHN (TTN-PPHN) was confirmed and 59 infants with severe TTN without PPHN who required mechanical ventilation between 2009 and 2018 at Songklanagarind Hospital, Thailand. Logistic regression was used to assess factors associated with TTN and PPHN.

Results

The factors identified by univariate analysis that were associated with development of PPHN were oxygen saturation (SpO2) <90% and respiratory rate (RR) ≥70 breaths/min at the time of admission, mean airway pressure (MAP) ≥8 cmH2O, oxygen index (OI) ≥10, partial pressure of oxygen (PaO2) ≤60, partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PCO2) ≥45 mmHg, and infants who did not receive positive pressure ventilation (PPV). In multivariate analyses, RR ≥70 breaths/min (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 9.96, 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.1–47.29, P < 0.001) and OI ≥10 (aOR 29.22, 95% CI 4.46–191.23, P < 0.001) remained statistically significantly associated with PPHN.

Conclusions

High RR and high OI were factors associated with PPHN in TTN infants.
Burden of congenital and hereditary anomalies in the war-affected territory at Pakistan–Afghanistan border
Authors: Naeem Muhammad , Ahmad Bashir , Malik Sajid
Published: August 2023

Background

Pashtun populations of Pakistan are the victim of long-lasting military combats, rendering 1.9 million inhabitants internally displaced. Studies highlighting congenital and hereditary anomalies in these populations are deficient.

Objectives

To elucidate the spectrum anomalies in the north-western war-affected territories of Pakistan.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was carried out from 2017 to 2019 and individuals or families with anomalies were ascertained through convenience and cluster random sampling. Phenotypic and pedigree data and information on bio-demographic variables were collected. Descriptive statistics were applied.

Results

A total of 361 independent individuals or families with anomalies were recruited. The anomalies were grouped into 8 major and 72 minor entities. Among major categories, neurological disorders had the highest representation (n = 100; proportion: 0.277; 95% CI: 0.231–0.323), followed by sensorineural defects (n = 70; prop.: 0.194), limb defects (n = 60; prop.: 0.166), visual impairments (n = 55; prop.: 0.152), and musculoskeletal defects (n = 37; prop.: 0.102). Among the neurological disorders, intellectual disability had the highest occurrence (58%), whereas talipes and limb amputations were the most prominent in limb defects (22% and 20%, respectively). The anomalies had sporadic and isolated presentations most often (76% each), while parental consanguinity was observed in 34% of index cases.

Conclusions

The high incidence of neurological, sensorineural, and limb defects, the preponderance of sporadic cases, and low level of parental consanguinity may indicate a potentially high contribution of nongenetic factors in the etiology of anomalies. The majority of anomalies are the cause of severe disability.
The effects of the Pendulum distalising appliance and cervical headgear on the dentofacial structures
Authors: Toy Ebubekir , Enacar Ayhan
Published: August 2023

Background: Headgears are effective in distalising maxillary molars, but success depends on patient compliance and tolerance. Intra-oral distalising appliances are simple to construct and use and may be a better alternative for patients who are non-compliant or cannot tolerate headgear.

Aims: To compare the Pendulum (PEN) appliance and cervical headgear (CHG) on distal movement of maxillary first molars in patients requiring maxillary molar distalisation.

Methods: Thirty patients were randomly divided into two groups. Both groups had comparable occlusal and cephalometric characteristics before treatment. Fifteen patients (9 girls, 6 boys) with a mean age of 11.45 ± 1.54 years (Range: 8.58–13.50 years) were treated with Pendulum appliances and 15 patients (10 girls, 5 boys) with a mean age of 11.72 ± 1.24 years (Range: 9.58–13.33 years) were treated with a Ricketts-type CHG. A pilot study of four patients estimated that the time required to distalise the maxillary molars with the Pendulum appliance was five months. Therefore, the end of treatment records for the CHG group were taken after 4.96 ± 0.35 months. Lateral and postero-anterior cephalometric radiographs were taken of both groups at the start (T1) and end of distalisation/treatment (T2). Changes in cephalometric measurements in the two groups were compared with Wilcoxon and Mann-Whitney U tests.

Results: Measurements indicated that U6-ANS distance, overjet and U1-APo distance increased, U6-PP angle and U6-PTV distance reduced, and the molar relationship improved more in the PEN group compared with the CHG group. Statistically, significant right molar – left molar differences were found between the two groups. Distalisation produced significant side effects, resulting in distal tipping of the first molars and an increase in overjet, whereas the CHG reduced the overjet.

Conclusion: The Pendulum appliance was more effective than the CHG in distalising the maxillary first molars.
Presence of cariogenic streptococci on various bracket materials detected by polymerase chain reaction
Authors: Pramod Smitha , Kailasam Vignesh , Padmanabhan Sridevi , Chitharanjan Arun B.
Published: August 2023

Objective: To determine the in vivo presence of Streptococcus mutans and Streptococcus sobrinus on different bracket materials and to correlate the prevalence with the Visible Plaque Index (VPI) and the Gingival Bleeding Index (GBI).

Methods: Orthodontic brackets made of different materials (stainless steel, gold, ceramic, plastic) were bonded to the upper and lower second premolars in 40 subjects receiving fixed orthodontic appliances. After 30 days, the brackets were debonded and the presence of S. mutans and S. sobrinus on the brackets was determined using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique. The VPI and GBI were recorded and the relationship between the prevalence of the streptococci and the level of oral hygiene was calculated.

Results: There were fewer S. mutans and S. Sobrinus over the surface of gold and stainless steel brackets compared with the plastic and ceramic brackets. A statistically significant difference was observed in S. mutans and S. sobrinus prevalence between the metal brackets and the aesthetic brackets. However, there were no statistically significant differences in S. mutans and S. Sobrinus prevalence when the gold and stainless steel brackets were compared. Comparison between the plastic and ceramic brackets revealed a similar finding. Furthermore, a significant correlation was found between the in vivo prevalence of S. mutans and S.sobrinus and the oral hygiene indices (p < 0.05), suggesting that the oral hygiene indices could be a good indicator of S. mutans and S. sobrinus prevalence.

Conclusions: Since microbial adhesion is greater on aesthetic brackets, good oral hygiene during treatment should be emphasised.
The presence of TNF-α and TNFR1 in aseptic root resorption. A preliminary study
Authors: Curl Linda , Sampson Wayne
Published: August 2023

Background: It is hypothesised that osteoprotegerin (OPG), as an osteoclast antagonist, may offer molecular control over the process of orthodontic root resorption. Previous work investigating OPG in a rat periodontal ligament (PDL) ankylosis model found no inhibitory effect on osteoclasts and odontoclasts when given at a recommended dosage of 2.5 mg/kg. It was considered that traumatically-induced PDL inflammation produces mediators and cytokines with the ability to stimulate clast cell differentiation and counter the effects of OPG.

Aims: The present study investigated the presence of Tumour Necrosis Factor Alpha (TNF-α) and its receptor Tumour Necrosis Factor Receptor 1 (TNFR1) in a PDL sterile inflammatory model.

Methods: Dry ice was applied for 15 minutes to the upper right first molar crown of eighteen, 8-week-old, male Sprague-Dawley rats of which 9 were injected with OPG at a dose of 2.5 mg/kg of body weight at the time of freezing. After 7 days, the rats were sacrificed and each maxilla processed for immunohistochemical identification of TNF-α and TNFR1.

Results: Results showed the presence of root resorption in varying amounts and locations in both experimental and control rats. Reparative processes appeared greater in the OPG-treated rats, often with the presence of an ankylotic union. Immunolabelling showed the presence of TNF-α and TNFR1 in the sterile inflammation located mainly in the interradicular PDL area. More definitive labelling appeared in OPG-treated rats.

Conclusion: The results indicated that TNF-α, and its receptor TNFR1, by their presence, may modify OPG effectiveness by offering an alternative pathway for osteoclast formation, which counters the anti-resorptive effects of OPG.
Comparison of the effects of fixed and removable functional appliances on the skeletal and dentoalveolar structures
Authors: Bilgiç Fundagül , Hamamci Orhan , Başaran Güvenç
Published: August 2023

Objective: To compare and analyse the effects of activator and Forsus FRD EZ appliances in the treatment of skeletal Class II division I malocclusion.

Methods: Lateral cephalograms and hand-wrist radiographs were collected from 24 Class II division I growing patients (14 females, 10 males). The patients were randomly divided into two equal groups and either treated with an activator appliance (Mean age 12.67 ± 1.24 years) or with a Forsus FRD EZ appliance (Mean age 12.31 ± 1.09 years). Pretreatment and post-treatment cephalometric radiographs were obtained, traced, superimposed and data analysed using paired t-tests and the Wilcoxon signed rank test.

Results: The results demonstrated that the Forsus FRD EZ effectively corrected the Class II malocclusion, but the changes were mainly dentoalveolar. The Forsus FRD EZ appliance induced a clockwise rotation of the occlusal plane without significant alteration in the vertical facial dimension. Skeletally, maxillary growth was restricted and pogonion moved forward which improved the profile.

Conclusion: The Forsus FRD EZ appliance may be an effective dentoalveolar treatment method to manage a skeletal imbalance and improve the profile in growing patients.
The effects of lubrication on the static frictional resistance of orthodontic brackets
Authors: Al-Mansouri Noor , Palmer Graham , Moles David R. , Jones Steven P.
Published: August 2023

Background: Difficulties are experienced with the collection and storage of freshly harvested human saliva to use as a lubricant for the laboratory testing of the frictional resistance of orthodontic brackets. In order to overcome these difficulties, researchers have suggested the use of saliva substitutes due to their ease of storage and consistency of properties throughout testing. Others have criticized the use of artificial saliva and prefer the dry state. The present study aimed to compare the effects of human saliva and an artificial saliva (Saliva Orthana®) with the dry state for the static frictional resistance testing of orthodontic brackets.

Methods: The static frictional resistance and the lubrication effect of human saliva, Saliva Orthana® and the dry state were investigated using upper central incisor stainless steel brackets and 0.019 x 0.025 inch stainless steel wires in an Instron® Universal Testing Machine. Static frictional resistance was measured 100 times for each lubrication state. The ‘wettability’ of each lubricant was determined by measuring the contact angle against a stainless steel surface using the CAM 200 Optical Contact Angle Meter. Distilled water acted as a control. The viscosity of each lubricant and their Newtonian or non-Newtonian fluid behaviour under stress was measured using a Brookfield Digital Rheometer Model DV-III+.

Results: The differences in static frictional resistance between the three lubricants when examined as a group did not reach statistical significance (p = 0.059). The difference between human saliva and Saliva Orthana® was considered to be of weak statistical significance and clinical relevance (Means: 0.917 N; 0.819 N: p = 0.053). Human saliva and the dry state revealed very similar mean frictional values (Means: 0.917 N; 0.875 N: p = 0.932). The contact angle tests indicated a statistically significant difference between the lubricants with Saliva Orthana® having the smallest angle and therefore the highest ‘wettability’. Human saliva had the highest initial viscosity and behaved as a non-Newtonian fluid, contrasting with Saliva Orthana® and distilled water, both of which behaved as Newtonian fluids.

Conclusion: The current results indicate that artificial saliva is not an ideal alternative to human saliva for friction testing in the laboratory. The results therefore support the proposal that, when human saliva is not available, it may be preferable to test orthodontic frictional resistance in the dry state.
Bond failure rates of two self-ligating brackets: a randomised clinical trial
Authors: Luke Chapman J.
Published: August 2023

Aims: To evaluate the bond failure rates of two self-ligating appliance systems bonded with a self-etching primer.

Methods: Forty patients were randomly assigned to either Group SC (SmartClip, 3M Unitek, Monrovia, CA, USA) or Group IR (In-Ovation R, GAC International, Bohemia, NY, USA) appliance groups. Seven hundred and sixty six brackets were bonded with Transbond Plus Self-Etching Primer and Transbond Plus Color Change Adhesive according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Over a 12- month period, the survival rates of the brackets were estimated with the Kaplan-Meier analysis. The survival distributions for the appliance systems, dental arch and position in the dental arch were compared with the log-rank test.

Results: The bond failure rate for SC was significantly lower than IR (p = 0.022). There were no differences in failure rates between either the maxillary and mandibular arches or between the anterior and posterior brackets.

Conclusion: SC provided a more reliable bond than IR over the 12-month observation period, however, both brackets had clinically acceptable bond failure rates.
Changes in malocclusion over time in New Zealand adolescents
Authors: Foster Page Lyndie A. , Murray Thomson W. , Quick Andrew N.
Published: August 2023

Background: The Dental Aesthetic Index (DAI) has been used in many cross-sectional studies of population samples, but its use in assessing changes in malocclusion is less common. The aim of the present study was to describe the natural history of malocclusion and investigate the utility of the DAI as a measure for describing changes in malocclusion in a population-based sample of adolescents.

Method: A repeat examination was conducted of a sample of 430 children first assessed in 2003 at age 13 and re-examined at age 16 (255 or 59.3 per cent of the baseline sample) with their DAI and orthodontic history recorded at each age.

Results: Of the adolescents re-assessed, 28 were in active orthodontic treatment, 30 had completed treatment and 197 had not received any treatment. There were substantial changes in the DAI items from age 13 to 16, with the greatest improvement in maxillary anterior irregularity. Overall, almost one-quarter of participants showed an improvement in their DAI treatment need category which was considerably higher among those who had either received treatment or were in treatment.

Conclusion: The DAI is a valid and responsive tool for measuring change in malocclusion over time. Anterior mandibular irregularity shows the greatest change with age, and orthodontic treatment is effective in treating malocclusion, at least in the short term.
Risk factors associated with external apical root resorption of the maxillary incisors: a 15-year retrospective study
Authors: Rakhshan Vahid , Nateghian Nazanin , Ordoubazari Morteza
Published: August 2023

Aim: To determine the possible risk factors for external apical resorption (EARR) of the maxillary incisors.

Methods: Panoramic radiographs of 132 orthodontic patients with a mean age of 16.9 ± 3.6 years were selected from two practice centres in Tehran. The radiographs were taken between 1990 and 2005 and 63.6% of the subjects were female. Mean, standard deviation and distribution of EARR for various variables were assessed. Prevalence significance, as well as differences between frequency distributions of clinical EARR (≥ 1.2 mm) between genders, treatment plans (extraction/ non-extraction), initial overjet and overbite magnitude, and incisor types (centrals/laterals) were evaluated by the chi-squared test. The mean resorption rates on central and lateral incisors were compared using the independent-samples t-test. Associations between EARR with the age, duration of treatment, pretreatment overjet and overbite were assessed by the Pearson’s correlation test. The reliability of the method was determined by remeasuring 117 randomly selected incisors and determining the associations between both sets of measurements with the Pearson’s correlation coefficients.

Results: The prevalence of EARR, and clinical EARR (≥ 1.2 mm) were 91.8% and 44.78% respectively. The average of EARR was 1.377 ± 1.214 mm, or 8.165 ± 8.021% of pretreatment root lengths. The prevalence of clinical EARR was significantly higher in extraction cases, cases with greater initial overjet and on lateral incisors. Using the t-test, significant differences (p < 0.05) were observed between the extent of resorption between genders (higher in females), treatment plans (higher in extraction cases) and incisor types (greater on lateral incisors). Longer treatment times and excessive initial overjet were correlated with higher EARR levels (p < 0.05, r < 0.2).

Conclusions: Factors related to premolar extraction, initial ovejet size, treatment time and being female may be correlated with higher EARR. Clinically significant resorption did not occur more in females.
An investigation of cephalometric and morphological predictors of successful Twin Block therapy
Authors: Fleming Padhraig S. , Qureshi Usman , Pandis Nikolaos , DiBiase Andrew , Lee Robert T.
Published: August 2023

Objective: To identify predictors of overjet reduction, changes in mandibular length (Co-Me) and antero-posterior changes in mandibular position (Pog-Vert) during Twin Block therapy.

Methods: Pre- and post-treatment cephalograms of 131 participants were analysed (Mean age 12.73 years ± 1) following Twin Block therapy.

Results: Mean annualised overjet reduction was 7.29 mm (± 2.99) with chin projection improving by 2.66 mm (± 5.37). The magnitude of the initial overjet was a strong predictor (95% CI: 0.30, 0.77, p < 0.01) of overjet reduction and change in chin position (95% CI: 0.08, 0.77, p = 0.02). Greater forward movement of Pogonion occurred if there was greater retrusion of Pogonion at the outset (95% CI: 0.15, 0.45, p < 0.01). No prognostic relationship was noted for other potential cephalometric predictors including pretreatment mandibular lower border morphology and Co-Go-Me angle.

Conclusion: No relationship between mandibular morphology, vertical skeletal pattern and favourable dentoalveolar and skeletal responses to Twin Block therapy could be found. These results require confirmation on an external sample.
Occlusal bite force changes during 6 months of orthodontic treatment with fixed appliances
Authors: Alomari Sawsan A. , Abu Alhaija Elham S.
Published: August 2023

Background: Occlusal bite force (OBF) is reported to change during fixed appliance orthodontic treatment.

Aims: The aim of the present study was to determine bite force changes during the first 6 months of fixed appliance orthodontic treatment and to investigate the relationship between patients’ subjective pain levels and recorded changes in OBF.

Methods: Forty-seven subjects (34 females, 13 males) were recruited from the Dental Teaching Centre at the Jordan University of Science and Technology. The subject’s ages ranged between 18 and 26 years (average 19.0 ± 3.36 years). Bite force was measured using a portable OBF gauge at nine time intervals (T0 - T8). At each OBF recording, subjects were asked to describe their subjective pain level using a visual analogue scale (VAS). A repeated-measures analysis of variance and a Bonferroni post-hoc comparison test were applied to determine differences at the various time intervals.

Results: Bite force significantly reduced during the first month of orthodontic treatment and approximately 50% of pretreatment OBF was lost by the end of the first week. However, bite force recovered to pretreatment levels by the end of the sixth month. Visual analogue pain scores were higher during the first 2 weeks of treatment and were positively correlated with the OBF loss.

Conclusion: OBF reduced during the first month of orthodontic treatment but, with time, recovered to pretreatment levels.
Subjective symptoms of RME patients treated with three different screw activation protocols: a randomised clinical trial
Authors: Halıcıoğlu Koray , Kiki Ali , Yavuz İbrahim
Published: August 2023

Aims: The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the subjective symptoms of patients during the active phase of rapid maxillary expansion (RME) treatment, and further, to assess the differences between three different RME activation protocols.

Materials and methods: The clinical sample consisted of 60 patients (mean age 13.5 years) with maxillary transverse deficiency requiring expansion. The subjects were randomly divided into three groups on which different expansion protocols were performed. An evaluation of the subjective symptoms was carried out by a Numerical Rating Scale (NRS). The patients completed questionnaires after the first, fifth, tenth, twentieth and final activations. A Shapiro-Wilk test was applied to evaluate homogenity; a Kruskall Wallis test was performed for gender-related differences and to compare the different activation schedules. The Wilcoxon test was used to compare the activations at the various time intervals.

Results: No gender-related differences were found. Ninety-eight percent of the patients reported pain during RME. There were no specific differences between groups except for the pain perceived at the twentieth activation. In all groups, pain, the sensation of pressure and its duration were highest at the fifth activation. Subjective symptoms tended to decrease after the fifth and tenth activations. Headache and dizziness were minimal.

Conclusion: Different activation protocols did not appear to alter subjective symptoms encountered during RME. The majority of the patients undergoing RME suffered pain and pressure sensations especially after the fifth activation.
Measurements from conventional, digital and CT-derived cephalograms: a comparative study
Authors: Ghoneima Ahmed , Albarakati Sahar , Baysal Asli , Uysal Tancan , Kula Katherine
Published: August 2023

Objective: The purpose of this retrospective radiographic study was to determine the reliability and reproducibility of skeletal and dental measurements of lateral cephalograms created from a computerised tomography (CT) scan compared with conventional and digital lateral cephalograms.

Methods: CT and conventional lateral cephalograms of the same patients were obtained from university archives. The lateral cephalometric radiographs of 30 patients were manually traced. The radiographs were subsequently scanned and traced using Dolphin Imaging software version 11 (Dolphin Imaging, Chatsworth, CA, USA). The CT-created lateral cephalograms were also traced using the same software. Sixteen (10 angular and 6 linear) measurements were performed. Cephalometric measurements obtained from conventional, digital and CT-created cephalograms were statistically compared using repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA). Statistical significance was set at the p < 0.05 level of confidence.

Results: The intra-rater reliability test for each method showed high values (r > 0.90) except for mandibular length which had a correlation of 0.82 for the CT-created cephalogram. Five measurements (N-A-Pog, N-S, ANS-PNS, Co-ANS and Co-Gn) were found to be significantly different between the CT-created and conventional cephalograms and three measurements (SNB, ANB, and /1-MP) were found to be significantly different between the CT-created and digital cephalograms.

Conclusions: There are statistically-significant differences in measurements produced using a traditional manual analysis, a direct digital analysis or a 3D CT-derived cephalometric analysis of orthodontic patients. These differences are, on average, small but because of individual variation, may be of considerable clinical significance in some patients.
Colour stability of aesthetic brackets: ceramic and plastic
Authors: Filho Hibernon Lopes , Maia Lúcio Henrique , Araújo Marcus V. , Elias Carlos Nelson , Ruellas Antônio Carlos O.
Published: August 2023

Background: The colour stability of aesthetic brackets may differ according to their composition, morphology and surface property, which may consequently influence their aesthetic performance.

Aims: To assess the colour stability of aesthetic brackets (ceramic and plastic) after simulating aging and staining.

Methods: Twelve commercially manufactured ceramic brackets and four different plastic brackets were assessed. To determine possible colour change (ΔE*ab) and the value of the NBS (National Bureau of Standards) unit system, spectrophotometric colour measurements for CIE L*, a* and b* were taken before and after the brackets were aged and stained. Statistical analysis was undertaken using a one-way ANOVA analysis of variance and a Tukey multiple comparison test (α = 0.05).

Results: The colour change between the various (ceramic and plastic) materials was not significant (p > 0.05), but still varied significantly (p < 0.001) between the brackets of the same composition or crystalline structure and among commercial brands.

Conclusion: Colour stability cannot be confirmed simply by knowing the type of material and crystalline composition or structure. (Aust Orthod J 2013; 29: 13-20)
Surgically-assisted rapid maxillary expansion of narrowed maxillae: a case-cohort study
Authors: Gamage Sanjaya N. , Goss Alastair N.
Published: August 2023

Aims: The aim of this study was to investigate a consecutive cohort of surgically-assisted rapid maxillary expansion cases to determine the indications, results and relapse associated with the procedure.

Methods: The records of 21 cases of SARME treated by the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and Orthodontic units at the University of Adelaide were examined. Overall expansion and subsequent relapse were compared on study models and postero-anterior cephalometric radiographs against the variables of age, gender, surgeon, surgical technique, final occlusion and the retention period. Statistical analysis was performed on paired variables.

Results: Maximum expansion was gained across the intermolar width and the most relapse identified across the canines. Male patients showed statistically greater stability across the intercanine width. There were otherwise no significant relationships between the treatment variables, stability or relapse.

Conclusions: SARME is a safe surgical technique for narrowed maxillae requiring intermolar expansion of 6 mm or more. Overexpansion of up to 60% is required to compensate for relapse.
The application and correlation of Pont’s Index to the facial framework of three main ethnic groups in Malaysia
Authors: Purmal Kathiravan , Alam Mohammad Khursheed , Moganadass Deeban Das , Zakaria Nur Nadia , Cheong Ngeow Wei
Published: August 2023

Objective: To assess the applicability of Pont’s Index in a Malaysian population by obtaining baseline measurements of dental arch shape based on premolar arch width, molar arch width and the combined width of the maxillary incisors. A secondary aim was to determine whether a correlation exists between arch widths, Pont’s Index and the facial framework.

Methods: Ninety subjects of mixed racial backgrounds had maxillary dental casts made, measured and selected craniofacial anthropometric measurements taken. Arch widths were compared between the measured and the predicted values derived from Pont’s formula. A comparative analysis was performed between interpremolar and intermolar widths and the craniofacial anthropometric measurements. Comparative statistics were applied.

Results: The average interincisal measurement, interpremolar and intermolar widths were 30.31 ± 2.49 mm, 36.67 ± 2.50 mm and 45.21 ± 2.90 mm respectively. No significant differences were detected between the races. The interincisal measurement in males was significantly lower than for females but male intermolar width was significantly higher than for females. The average predicted interpremolar width (37.89 ± 3.11 mm) and intermolar widths (47.36 ± 3.89 mm) were higher than the actual measured means, suggesting that Pont’s Index overestimated interpremolar and intermolar widths in the majority of Malaysians. The premolar index (83.34) and molar index (67.71) of the Malaysians were higher than the original Pont’s Indices. Significant correlations were noted for intermolar width with facial width, mandibular width, mandibular depth and mouth width.

Conclusion: The findings suggest that Pont’s Index should not be applied to the Malaysian population.
The validity of transverse intermaxillary analysis by traditional PA cephalometry compared with cone-beam computed tomography
Authors: Cheung Gordon , Goonewardene Mithran Suresh , Islam Syed Mohammed Shamsul , Murray Kevin , Koong Bernard
Published: August 2023

Aim: To assess the validity of using Jugale (J) and Antegonion (Ag) on Posterior-Anterior cephalograms (PAC) as landmarks for transverse intermaxillary analysis when compared with Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT).

Material and methods: Conventional PAC and CBCT images were taken of 28 dry skulls. Craniometric measurements between the bilateral landmarks, Antegonion and Jugale, were obtained from the skulls using a microscribe and recorded as the base standard. The corresponding landmarks were identified and measured on CBCT and PAC and compared with the base standard measurements. The accuracy and reliability of the measurements were statistically evaluated and the validity was assessed by comparing the ability of the two image modalities to accurately diagnose an arbitrarily selected J-J/Ag-Ag ratio. All measurements were repeated at least 7 weeks apart. Intra-class correlations (ICC) and Bland-Altman plots were used to analyse the data.

Results: All three methods were shown to be reliable as all had a mean error of less than 0.5 mm between repeated measurements. When compared with the base standard, CBCT measurements were shown to have higher agreement (ICC: 0.861-0.964) compared with measurements taken from PAC (ICC: 0.794-0.796). When the arbitrary J-J/Ag-Ag ratio was assessed, 18 per cent of cases were incorrectly diagnosed with a transverse discrepancy on the PAC compared with the CBCT which incorrectly diagnosed 8.7 per cent.

Conclusion: CBCT was shown to be more reliable in assessing intermaxillary transverse discrepancy compared with PAC when using J-J/Ag-Ag ratios.
Evaluation of the cytotoxicity of elastomeric ligatures after sterilisation with 0.25% peracetic acid
Authors: Pithon Matheus Melo , Santos Rogerio Lacerda dos , Judice Renata Lima Pasini , Assuncao Paulo Sergio de , Restle Luciana
Published: August 2023

Introduction: Sterilisation using peracetic acid (PAA) has been advocated for orthodontic elastic bands. However, cane-loaded elastomeric ligatures can also become contaminated during processing, packaging, and manipulation before placement in the oral cavity and are therefore susceptible, and possible causes, of cross-contamination.

Aim: To test the hypothesis that 0.25% peracetic acid (PAA), following the sterilisation of elastomers, influences the cytotoxicity of elastomeric ligatures on L929 cell lines.

Materials and methods: Four hundred and eighty silver elastomeric ligatures were divided into 4 groups of 120 ligatures to produce, Group TP (latex natural, bulk pack, TP Orthodontics), Group M1 (Polyurethane, bulk pack, Morelli), Group M2 (Polyurethane, cane-loaded, Morelli) and Group U (Polyurethane, cane-loaded, Uniden). Of the 120 ligatures in each group, 100 were sterilised in 0.25% PAA at time intervals (N = 20) of 1 hour, 2 hours, 3 hours, 4 hours and 5 hours. The 20 remaining elastomeric ligatures in each group were not sterilised and served as controls. Cytotoxicity was assessed using L929 cell lines and a dye-uptake method. Analysis of variance (ANOVA), followed by the Tukey post hoc test (p < 0.05) determined statistical relevance.

Results: There was a significant difference between TP, Morelli and Uniden elastomerics (p < 0.05), but no difference between the two types of Morelli elastomerics at the 1 hour time interval. In addition, there was a significant difference between Group CC and the other groups assessed, except between Groups CC and TP at the 1 hour time interval. The non-sterilised elastomeric ligatures showed similar cell viability to that observed after 1 hour of standard sterilisation.

Conclusion: PAA did not significantly influence the cytotoxicity of elastomeric ligatures after a sterilisation time of 1 hour and is therefore recommended for clinical use.
The impact of spur therapy in dentoalveolar open bite
Authors: Meyer-Marcotty Philipp , Kochel Janka , Stellzig-Eisenhauer Angelika
Published: August 2023

Aim: A longitudinal case-control study, designed to analyse the isolated effect of attached palatal spurs in patients displaying a dentoalveolar anterior open bite, is presented.

Methods: Thirty-one patients (mean age of 13.3 years ± 3.17 years) underwent a standardised treatment protocol with fixed anterior spurs for 8.3 months. Lateral cephalograms and plaster casts were analysed before (T1) and after spur therapy (T2). The data were tested using paired t-tests with a significance level of p < 0.05.

Results: The cephalometric analysis showed significant elongation of the height of the maxillary (mean +1.22 mm) and the mandibular (mean +1.39 mm) alveolar processes, as well as uprighting of the lower anterior teeth. The plaster cast analysis showed an increase in maxillary intermolar width (mean +0.98 mm) and a decrease in intercanine distance (mean -0.96 mm). The mandibular anterior width and dental arch length reduced. Overall, spur therapy resulted in a significant increase in overjet and overbite.

Conclusion: The use of spurs produced a resolution of the open bite in all patients. Therefore, spurs could be considered an effective mechanism for the management of anterior open bite in selected adolescent patients.
The evidence supporting methods of tooth width measurement: Part I. Vernier calipers to stereophotogrammetry
Authors: Naidu Devan , Freer Terrence J.
Published: August 2023

Measuring tooth widths is a key component of orthodontic treatment planning. Over recent decades, many methods have been proposed to achieve this purpose. The current review highlights and describes the initial techniques. The evidence behind their use is presented along with a brief discussion of their benefits and shortfalls. With knowledge and understanding of the accuracy and limitations of the various measurement methods, the clinician may be better informed and therefore able to select the most appropriate method for clinical practice.
2013 Survey of Australian Orthodontists’ procedures
Authors: Miles Peter
Published: August 2023

Aim: This survey of Australian orthodontists was conducted to assess treatment preferences.

Methods: Email invitations to participate in an online survey were sent to a total of 433 Australian Society of Orthodontists (ASO) members and 158 replies were received (36% response).

Results: For Class II treatment, most practitioners preferred to wait and treat later but when early treatment was performed, the Twin Block was the most popular appliance. For fixed appliance treatment, the 0.022 inch slot was the most commonly used (73%) and the median treatment time was 20 months. The median extraction rate was 23% which was similar to that reported in a 2008 USA survey. Sequential plastic aligners were used by 73% of respondents and Temporary Skeletal Anchorage Devices were used by 77%. The most common research question clinicians would like answered related to retention.

Conclusion: The responses were similar Australia-wide but some areas of difference were revealed and discussed.
Effects of four premolar extractions on vermilion height and lip area during a posed smile in patients with bimaxillary protrusion
Authors: Trisnawaty Nety , Ioi Hideki , Kitahara Toru , Suzuki Akira , Takahashi Ichiro
Published: August 2023

Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of four premolar extractions and orthodontic treatment on changes to the lips and vermilion height during a posed smile.

Methods: Fifteen female patients who were diagnosed with bimaxillary protrusion and treated with four premolar extractions were selected. The control group consisted of 25 female volunteers with a normal occlusion. Frontal photographs of the patients during a posed smile were taken before and after orthodontic treatment. Thirty-five landmarks on the upper and lower lips were identified and used to generate measurements of lip area and vermilion height. Linear and angular cephalometric measurements were also obtained.

Results: The mean values for vermilion height and lip form before orthodontic treatment were significantly larger in the treatment group compared with those of the control group. Following treatment, values significantly decreased to the extent that there was no significant difference in the vermilion height and lip form between the post-treatment and control groups. Only three and four significant correlations were found between the changes in incisor position and changes in vermilion height and lip area for the upper and lower lips, respectively.

Conclusions: The vermilion height and lip area in patients with bimaxillary protrusion approached comparative and normal values as a result of four premolar extractions and orthodontic retraction.
Denervation and β2-adrenoceptor-agonist administration on craniofacial bone density
Authors: Fitzpatrick Brendan , Woods Michael , Lynch Gordon , Manton David
Published: August 2023

Objective: β2-agonist medications are thought to have adverse effects on bone density. Surgical denervation and intramuscular β2-agonist injections appear to have opposing effects on skeletal muscles. The present study has been designed to assess the effects of denervation of the masseter, intramuscular injection of a β2-agonist and the combination of both procedures, on bone density in the craniofacial skeleton in rats.

Materials and methods: Sprague-Dawley rats were prepared as four groups: 1. surgical sham + saline injection into the masseter (sham); 2. surgical denervation of the masseter (den.); 3. surgical denervation of the masseter + intramuscular formoterol injection into the affected muscle (den.+form.); 4. intramuscular formoterol injection into the masseter (form.). All specimens were submitted for CT examination and volumetric calculations of the mineralised bone tissue were performed.

Results: The sham and form. groups had a greater volume of mineralised bone in the zygoma on the experimental side compared with the control side. The maxilla on the experimental side had a higher volume of mineralised bone in the den.+form. and form. groups compared with the sham and den. groups. The control side of the maxilla had a higher volume of mineralised bone in the den.+form. and form. groups compared with the den. group only.

Conclusion: Intramuscular administration of formoterol appears to induce a bilateral increase in bone mineral density in the maxilla and the zygoma, likely explained as a secondary effect of the well-described increase in muscle mass and strength associated with β2-agonist administration.
The reliability of using postero-anterior cephalometry and cone-beam CT to determine transverse dimensions in clinical practice
Authors: Tai Benjamin , Goonewardene Mithran Suresh , Murray Kevin , Koong Bernard , Islam Syed Mohammed Shamsul
Published: August 2023

Aim: This study primarily aimed to assess the accuracy of classically-advocated reference points for the measurement of transverse jaw-base and dental relationships using conventional Postero-Anterior Cephalometry (PAC) and Cone-Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT).

Method: PAC and CBCT images were collected from 31 randomly selected orthodontic patients (12 males, 19 females), all of whom had a full permanent dentition. The transverse widths of the maxilla, mandible and the dentition were measured using reference points on both image modalities. Confidence intervals, intra-class coefficients and Bland Altman plots were used to assess the measurement differences derived from the two acquirement methods.

Results: Measurements on PAC and CBCT images demonstrated statistically significant differences in the majority of the assessed variables. The interjugal (J-J) width was one of only two variables which did not demonstrate a statistically significant difference on image comparison. The mean differences of the antegonial width (Ag-Ag) (-4.44mm, 95% CI -5.38 to -3.51) represented the greatest difference between the imaging techniques. The application of these points to a transverse skeletal analysis (J-J/Ag-Ag ratio) revealed that five of the 31 subjects (16%) recorded ‘false positive’ readings according to the derived data.

Conclusion: It is recommended that clinicians are cautious when interpreting and making decisions related to transverse dimensions derived from a PAC. The PAC has a higher tendency to falsely identify individuals who require maxillary expansion procedures based on conventional clinical criteria. The errors primarily associated with identifying structures which represent the width of the mandible are significant in both PAC and CBCT techniques and require further investigation. It is postulated that the confounding effects of overlying soft tissues have a significant impact on a clinician’s ability to identify relevant landmarks.
Changes in maxillary molar pulp blood flow during orthodontic intrusion
Authors: Sabuncuoglu Fidan Alakus , Ersahan Seyda
Published: August 2023

Introduction/Objective: The aim of this prospective study was to evaluate the effects of maxillary first molar intrusion on pulpal blood flow (PBF) in humans as recorded by laser Doppler flowmetry (LDF).

Materials and methods: Maxillary first molars of 16 participants were divided into two groups. In the study group, 20 teeth in 10 participants were subjected to an intrusive force of 100 g delivered from mini-implants for 6 months. A control group of 6 subjects (12 teeth) received no orthodontic treatment. LDF measurements were recorded at baseline and at 3 days, 3 weeks, 3 months and 6 months during intrusion. Data was analysed using the Wilcoxon Signed Rank and Mann-Whitney U tests, with a level of p < 0.05 considered statistically significant.

Results: No significant changes in PBF perfusion units (PU) were observed in the control group over the course of the study. However, PBF in the study group was significantly higher at T0 (8.7 ± 0.9 PU) when compared with T1 (6.1 ± 0.6 PU, p < 0.001) and T2 (6.0 ± 0.6 PU, p < 0.001). PBF did not vary significantly between T1 and T2 (p = 0.073) or between T3 and T4 (p = 0.262). Moreover, PBF at the end of the study (T4) was similar to baseline PBF values for both groups (study group: p = 0.687; control group: p = 0.525).

Conclusions: Despite significant short-term regressive changes in pulpal tissue during continuous molar intrusion with mini-implants and an applied force of 100 g, blood vessel function was maintained throughout intrusion, as indicated by LDF measurements of PBF, which tended to return to baseline values by the end of the observation period. These results highlight the changes that can occur in molar vascularity, especially during six months of intrusion.