bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Minimally Invasive Antral Membrane Balloon Elevation Followed by Maxillary Bone Augmentation and Implant Fixation
Authors: Kfir Efraim , Kfir Vered , Mijiritsky Eitan , Rafaeloff Ronen , Kaluski Edo
Published: February 2006

The posterior maxillary segment frequently suffers from insufficient bone mass to support dental implants. Current bone augmentation methods, including the lateral maxillary approach (ie, hinge osteotomy) and sinus elevation by osteotome, have many shortcomings. The objective of our study was to assess the safety and efficacy of minimally invasive antral membrane balloon elevation (MIAMBE) followed by bone augmentation and implant fixation (executed during the same procedure). Alveolar crest exposure and implant osteotomy were followed by sequential balloon inflations yielding >10 mm MIAMBE. A mix of autologous fibrin and bone particles with bone speckles was injected beneath the antral membrane. Implants were fixated into the osteotomies, and primary closure was performed during the same sitting. A total of 24 patients were enrolled. Successful conclusion of this procedure was accomplished in 91.6% of the initial 12 patients and 100% in the second dozen cases without significant complications. Patient discomfort was minimal. Long-term follow up revealed satisfactory bone formation, resulting in adequate implant stability. We conclude that the protocol of MIAMBE results in an excellent success rate, low complication rate, minimal discomfort, and long-term safety and durability. Because it requires only basic equipment and a short learning curve, this clinical approach should be widely employed.
Breast Cancer: Achievements in Adjuvant Systemic Therapies in the Pre-Genomic Era
Authors: Colozza Mariantonietta , de Azambuja Evandro , Cardoso Fatima , Bernard Chantal , Piccart Martine J.
Published: February 2006

Learning Objectives

After completing this course, the reader will be able to: Identify the available adjuvant systemic therapies for breast cancer patients.Identify the role of taxanes in node-positive breast cancer patients.Discuss the most useful endocrine therapy in pre- and postmenopausal patients with breast cancer.

CME Access and take the CME test online and receive 1 AMA PRA category 1 credit at CME.TheOncologist.com
Interethnic Differences in Genetic Polymorphisms of CYP2D6 in the U.S. Population: Clinical Implications
Authors: Bernard Stephen , Neville Kathleen A. , Nguyen Anne T. , Flockhart David A.
Published: February 2006

Learning Objectives

After completing this course, the reader will be able to: List the four different genotypes for CYP2D6 polymorphism.Understand the potential effects of CYP2D6 polymorphism on the efficacy and safety for drugs metabolized via this enzyme.List the ethnic groups that are most frequently affected by genetic variation of the CYP2D6 enzyme.

CME Access and take the CME test online and receive 1 AMA PRA category 1 credit at CME.TheOncologist.com
Postoperative Chemotherapy for Gastric Cancer
Authors: Hejna Michael , Wöhrer Stefan , Schmidinger Manuela , Raderer Markus
Published: February 2006

Learning Objectives

After completing this course, the reader will be able to: Identify the current standard of care and new chemotherapy options for patients with resected gastric cancer.Discuss recently reported results of phase II and phase III randomized trials of chemotherapy for the postoperative treatment of gastric cancer.Discuss the clinical implications of recent clinical trial findings and future treatment strategies.

CME Access and take the CME test online and receive 1 AMA PRA category 1 credit at CME.TheOncologist.com
Alternating Chemotherapy and Radiotherapy in Locally Advanced Head and Neck Cancer: An Alternative?
Authors: Merlano Marco
Published: February 2006

Learning Objectives

After completing this course, the reader will be able to: Discuss the results of trials with alternating chemotherapy and radiotherapy for the treatment of locoregionally advanced head and neck cancer.Describe the rationale for using alternating chemotherapy and radiotherapy in the management of head and neck cancer.Explain why chemoradiation should preferably be managed by an experienced staff.Assess the role played by different drugs in the development of mucositis in an alternating chemotherapy and radiotherapy combined treatment.

CME Access and take the CME test online and receive 1 AMA PRA category 1 credit at CME.TheOncologist.com
Therapeutic Advances in the Treatment of Glioblastoma: Rationale and Potential Role of Targeted Agents
Authors: Reardon David A. , Wen Patrick Y.
Published: February 2006

Learning Objectives

After completing this course, the reader will be able to: Describe the genetic alterations frequently observed in GBM tumors as well as the cell signal transduction pathways that are aberrantly activated in these tumors.Discuss the clinical benefit recently associated with temozolomide chemotherapy for patients with GBM.Identify mediators of signal transduction pathways that are attractive targets of novel therapeutics in GBM patients.Understand the potential benefit associated with regionally administered therapies for GBM patients as a means to overcome drug delivery limitations into the central nervous system caused by the blood–brain barrier.Describe the rationale for combination regimens incorporating novel targeted agents for GBM patients.

CME Access and take the CME test online and receive 1 AMA PRA category 1 credit at CME.TheOncologist.com
Changing Paradigms—An Update on the Multidisciplinary Management of Malignant Glioma
Authors: Stupp Roger , Hegi Monika E. , van den Bent Martin J. , Mason Warren P. , Weller Michael , Mirimanoff René O. , Cairncross J. Gregory ,   on behalf of the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer Brain Tumor and Radiotherapy Groups and the National Cancer Institute of Canada Clinical Trials Group
Published: February 2006

Learning Objectives

After completing this course, the reader will be able to: List the different major subtypes of glioma and identify the appropriate treatment strategies for patients with high-grade and low-grade gliomas.Discuss the available evidence for the treatment of newly diagnosed glioblastoma, anaplastic astrocytoma, and anaplastic oligodendroglioma.Identify approved agents and other active or investigational agents used to treat patients with newly diagnosed and recurrent glioma.

CME Access and take the CME test online and receive 1 AMA PRA category 1 credit at CME.TheOncologist.com
Beta Radiation
Authors: Welsh James S.
Published: February 2006

Learning Objectives

After completing this course, the reader will be able to: Describe the basic science behind radioactive beta decay.Discuss the common clinically useful beta-emitting radioisotopes.Explain why some beta emitters are better suited than others for certain specific clinical indications.

CME Access and take the CME test online and receive 1 AMA PRA category 1 credit at CME.TheOncologist.com
Cancer-Related Fatigue: Predictors and Effects of Rehabilitation
Authors: van Weert Ellen , Hoekstra-Weebers Josette , Otter Renée , Postema Klaas , Sanderman Robbert , van der Schans Cees
Published: February 2006

Background. The aims of the study were to examine the effects of a multidimensional rehabilitation program on cancer-related fatigue, to examine concurrent predictors of fatigue, and to investigate whether change in fatigue over time was associated with change in predictors.

Methods. Sample: 72 cancer survivors with different diagnoses. Setting: rehabilitation center. Intervention: 15-week rehabilitation program. Measures: Fatigue (Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory), demographic and disease/treatment-related variables, body composition (bioelectrical impedance), exercise capacity (symptom-limited bicycle ergometry), muscle force (handheld dynamometry), physical and psychological symptom distress (Rotterdam Symptom Check List), experienced physical and psychological functioning (RAND-36), and self-efficacy (General-Self-Efficacy Scale, Dutch version). Measurements were performed before (T0) and after rehabilitation (T1).

Results. At T1 (n = 56), significant improvements in fatigue were found, with effect sizes varying from −0.35 to −0.78. At T0, the different dimensions of fatigue were predicted by different physical and psychological variables. Explained variance of change in fatigue varied from 42%–58% and was associated with pre-existing fatigue and with change in physical functioning, role functioning due to physical problems, psychological functioning, and physical symptoms distress.

Conclusions. Within this selected group of patients we found that (a) rehabilitation is effective in reducing fatigue, (b) both physical and psychological parameters predicted different dimensions of fatigue at baseline, and (c) change in fatigue was mainly associated with change in physical parameters.
Early Intervention with Epoetin Alfa During Platinum-Based Chemotherapy: An Analysis of the Results of a Multicenter, Randomized, Controlled Trial Based on Initial Hemoglobin Level
Authors: Savonije Jorine H. , van Groeningen Cees J. , Wormhoudt Lars W. , Giaccone Guiseppe
Published: February 2006

Learning Objectives

After completing this course, the reader will be able to: Describe the implications of untreated anemia and the benefits of anemia prevention/early correction in patients with cancer receiving chemotherapy.Discuss the effect of initial Hb level on the results of a prospective, randomized study in which cancer patients with baseline Hb levels ≤12.1 g/dl received epoetin alfa or best supportive care.Explain that the positive effects of early intervention with epoetin alfa on the transfusion rate, hematopoietic response, and quality of life in patients with chemotherapy-related anemia occur regardless of baseline Hb level, and that treating patients to a Hb value of 12.0 g/dl is clinically appropriate to optimize quality-of-life outcomes.

CME Access and take the CME test online and receive 1 AMA PRA category 1 credit at CME.TheOncologist.com
Direct-to-Consumer Advertising in Oncology
Authors: Abel Gregory A. , Penson Richard T. , Joffe Steven , Schapira Lidia , Chabner Bruce A. , Lynch Thomas J.
Published: February 2006

Shortly before his death in 1995, Kenneth B. Schwartz, a cancer patient at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH), founded The Kenneth B. Schwartz Center at MGH. The Schwartz Center is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting and advancing compassionate health care delivery, which provides hope to patients and support to caregivers while encouraging the healing process. The center sponsors the Schwartz Center Rounds, a monthly multidisciplinary forum in which caregivers reflect on important psychosocial issues faced by patients, their families, and their caregivers, and gain insight and support from fellow staff members. Increasingly, cancer patients are subjected to advertisements related to oncologic therapies and other cancer-related products in the popular media. Such direct-to-consumer advertising is controversial: while it may inform, educate, and perhaps even empower patients, it also has the ability to misinform patients, and strain their relationships with oncology providers. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration requires that direct-to-consumer advertising provide a balanced presentation of a product's benefits, risks, and side effects, but this can be difficult to achieve. Through a discussion of this topic by an oncology fellow, ethicist, cancer survivor, and senior oncologist, the role of direct-to-consumer advertising and its often subtle effects on clinical practice in oncology are explored. Although sparse, the medical literature on this increasingly prevalent type of medical communication is also reviewed.
Do Oncologists Believe New Cancer Drugs Offer Good Value?
Authors: Nadler Eric , Eckert Ben , Neumann Peter J.
Published: February 2006

Learning Objectives

After completing this course, the reader will be able to: Describe how academic oncologists view the costs of new treatments in their treatment recommendations.Discuss academic oncologists’ perceptions of the cost and benefit of one new treatment in light of published results.Describe how academic oncologists view the cost-effectiveness of new treatments relative to previously accepted standards.

CME Access and take the CME test online and receive 1 AMA PRA category 1 credit at CME.TheOncologist.com
Risk Allocation in Capital Markets: Portfolio Insurance, Tactical Asset Allocation and Collar Strategies
Authors: Chevallier Eric , Müller Heinz H.
Published: February 2006

The theory of risk exchange is applied on the allocation of financial risk in capital markets. It is shown how the shape of individual payoff functions depends on risk tolerance and cautiousness. For the special case where the Neumann-Morgenstern utility functions of all individual investors belong to the HARA class and have non decreasing risk tolerance it is proved that generalized versions of “portfolio insurance”, “tactical asset allocation” and “collars” are the only strategies occurring in price equilibrium.
A Recursive Procedure for Calculation of some Compound Distributions
Authors: Hesselager Ole
Published: February 2006

We consider compound distributions where the counting distribution has the property that the ratio between successive probabilities may be written as the ratio of two polynomials. We derive a recursive algorithm for the compound distribution, which is more efficient than the one suggested by Panjer & Willmot (1982) and Willmot & Panjer (1987). We also derive a recursive algorithm for the moments of the compound distribution. Finally, we present an application of the recursion to the problem of calculating the probability of ruin in a particular mixed Poisson process.
Some Comments on the Compound Binomial Model
Authors: Dickson David C.M.
Published: February 2006

We show how ruin probabilities for the classical continuous time compound Poisson model can be approximated by ruin probabilities for a compound binomial model. We also discuss ruin related results for a compound binomial model with geometric claim amounts.
Limiting Distribution of the Present Value of a Portfolio
Authors: Parker Gary
Published: February 2006

An approximation of the distribution of the present value of the benefits of a portfolio of temporary insurance contracts is suggested for the case where the size of the portfolio tends to infinity. The model used is the one presented in Parker (1922b) and involves random interest rates and future lifetimes. Some justifications of the approximation are given. Illustrations for limiting portfolios of temporary insurance contracts are presented for an assumed Ornstein-Uhlenbeck process for the force of interest.
On the Exact Calculation of the Aggregate Claims Distribution in the Individual Life Model
Authors: Waldmann Karl-Heinz
Published: February 2006

An iteration scheme is derived for calculating the aggregate claims distribution in the individual life model. The (exact) procedure is an efficient reformulation of De Pril's (1986) algorithm, considerably reducing both the number of arithmetic operations to be carried out and the number of data to be kept at each step of iteration. Scaling functions are used to stabilize the algorithm in case of a portfolio with a large number of policies. Some numerical results are displayed to demonstrate the efficiency of the method.
Modelling Mortgage Insurance Claims Experience: A Case Study
Authors: Taylor Greg
Published: February 2006

Mortgage insurance indemnifies a mortage lender against loss on default by the borrower. The sequence of events leading to a claim under this type of insurance is relatively complex, depending not only on the credit worthiness of the borrower but also on a number of external economic factors.

Prominent among these external factors are the loan to valuation ratio of the insured loan, the disposable income of the borrower, and movements in property values. A broad theoretical model of the functional dependencies of claim frequency and average claim size on these variables is established in Sections 6 and 7. Section 8 fits these models, extended by other “internal” variables such as the geographic location of the mortgaged property, to a real data set.

Section 9 compares the fitted model with the data, and finds an acceptable fit despite extreme fluctuations in the claims experience recorded in the data set.
Two Stochastic Approaches for Discounting Actuarial Functions
Authors: Parker Gary
Published: February 2006

Two approaches used to model interest randomness are presented. They are the modeling of the force of interest accumulation function and the modeling of the force of interest. The expected value, standard deviation and coefficient of skewness of the present value of annuities-immediate are presented as illustrations. The implicit behavior of the force of interest under the two approaches is investigated by looking at a particular conditional expectation of the force of interest accumulation function.
A Markov Model for Loss Reserving
Authors: Hesselager Ole
Published: February 2006

The claims generating process for a non-life insurance portfolio is modelled as a marked Poisson process, where the mark associated with an incurred claim describes the development of that claim until final settlement. An unsettled claim is at any point in time assigned to a state in some state-space, and the transitions between different states are assumed to be governed by a Markovian law. All claims payments are assumed to occur at the time of transition between states. We develop separate expressions for the IBNR and RBNS reserves, and the corresponding prediction errors.
Martingale Approach to Pricing Perpetual American Options
Authors: Gerber Hans U. , Shiu Elias S.W.
Published: February 2006

The method of Esscher transforms is a tool for valuing options on a stock, if the logarithm of the stock price is governed by a stochastic process with stationary and independent increments. The price of a derivative security is calculated as the expectation, with respect to the risk-neutral Esscher measure, of the discounted payoffs. Applying the optional sampling theorem we derive a simple, yet general formula for the price of a perpetual American put option on a stock whose downward movements are skip-free. Similarly, we obtain a formula for the price of a perpetual American call option on a stock whose upward movements are skip-free. Under the classical assumption that the stock price is a geometric Brownian motion, the general perpetual American contingent claim is analysed, and formulas for the perpetual down-and-out call option and Russian option are obtained. The martingale approach avoids the use of differential equations and provides additional insight. We also explain the relationship between Samuelson's high contact condition and the first order condition for optimality.
Robust Credibility via Robust Kalman Filtering
Authors: Kremer Erhard
Published: February 2006

Credibility theory is closely related to Kalman filtering. As a consequence, methods proposed for robustifying the Kalman filter can often be specialised to obtain robust credibility rating procedures. The application of one such method to several classical credibility models is shown in this paper.
Recursive Methods for Computing Finite-Time Ruin Probabilities for Phase-Distributed Claim Sizes
Authors: Stanford D.A. , Stroiński K.J.
Published: February 2006

Finite time ruin methods typically rely on diffusion approximations or discretization. We propose a new method by looking at the surplus process embedded at claim instants and develop a recursive scheme for calculating ruin probabilities. It is assumed that claim sizes follow a phase-type distribution. The proposed method is exact. The application of the method reveals where in the future the relative vulnerability to the company lies.
On the Compound Generalized Poisson Distributions
Authors: Ambagaspitiya R.S. , Balakrishnan N.
Published: February 2006

Goovaerts and Kaas (1991) present a recursive scheme, involving Panjer's recursion, to compute the compound generalized Poisson distribution (CGPD). In the present paper, we study the CGPD in detail. First, we express the generating functions in terms of Lambert's W function. An integral equation is derived for the pdf of CGPD, when the claim severities are absolutely continuous, from the basic principles. Also we derive the asymptotic formula for CGPD when the distribution of claim severity satisfies certain conditions. Then we present a recursive formula somewhat different and easier to implement than the recursive scheme of Goovaerts and Kaas (1991), when the distribution of claim severity follows an arithmetic distribution, which can be used to evaluate the CGPD. We illustrate the usage of this formula with a numerical example.
Modelling the Claims Process in the Presence of Covariates
Authors: Renshaw Arthur E.
Published: February 2006

An overview of the potential of Generalized Linear Models as a means of modelling the salient features of the claims process in the presence of rating factors is presented. Specific attention is focused on the rich variety of modelling distributions which can be implemented in this context.
A Comparative Analysis of 30 Bonus-Malus Systems
Authors: Lemaire Jean , Zi Hongmin
Published: February 2006

The automobile third party insurance merit-rating systems of 22 countries are simulated and compared, using as main tools the stationary average premium level, the variability of the policyholders' payments, their elasticity with respect to the claim frequency, and the magnitude of the hunger for bonus. Principal components analysis is used to define an “Index of Toughness” for all systems.
Additivity of Chain-Ladder Projections
Authors: Ajne Björn
Published: February 2006

In this paper some results are given on the addivity of chain-ladder projections. Given two claims development triangles, when do their chain-ladder projections add up to the projections of the combined triangle, that is the triangle being the element-wise sum of the two given triangles?

Necessary and sufficient conditions for equality are given. These are of a fairly simply form and are directly connected to the ordinary chain-ladder calculations. In addition, sufficient conditions of the same form are given for inequality between the combined projection vector and the sum of the two original projections vectors.
Deductibles and the Inverse Gaussian Distribution
Authors: ter Berg Peter
Published: February 2006

The calculation of mean claim sizes, in the presence of a deductible, is usually achieved through numerical integration. In case of a Lognormal or Gamma distribution, the quantities of interest can easily be expressed as functions of the cumulative distribution function, with modified parameters. This also applies to the F-distribution, where the incomplete Beta function enters the scene; see for instance the appendix in Hogg and Klugman (1984).

The purpose of this paper is to derive an explicit formula for the first two moments of the Inverse Gaussian distribution, in the presence of censoring. For reasons of completeness we also consider truncation of the Inverse Gaussian distribution by an upper limit.

The tractability of the derivation depends in a crucial way on two properties of the Inverse Gaussian distribution. Firstly, the cumulative distribution function of the Inverse Gaussian can be written as a simple function using the Normal probability integral. Secondly, the moment generating function of a censorized Inverse Gaussian distribution boils down to an expression containing the cumulative Inverse Gaussian distribution. This manifests itself most clearly in case of life insurance where the quantity of interest is the expectation of a present value. In case of non-life insurance, where the dimension of the Inverse Gaussian random variable is money instead of time, a further step is required: differentiation of the moment generating function.

So, a natural order of this paper is to address ourselves first to the derivation for the life case and afterwards tackling the more laborious derivation for the non-life case.
A Method for Modelling Varying Run-Off Evolutions in Claims Reserving
Authors: Verrall R.J.
Published: February 2006

This paper considers the application of state space modelling to the chain ladder linear model in order to allow the run-off parameters to vary with accident year. In the usual application of the chain ladder technique, the development factors are assumed to be the same for each accident year. This implies that the run-off shape does not alter with accident year. This paper shows how this assumption can be relaxed in order to allow a recursive smooth model to be applied, or for large changes in the shape of the run-off curve. It is possible for these changes to be modelled using external inputs, or for a multiprocess model to be used to detect changes in the run-off shape.
Application of biomaterials in experimentally induced alveolar bone osteoporosis
Authors: Ajdukovic Zorica , Mihailovic Dragan , Najman Stevo , Savic Vojin , Aleksov Ljiljana , Stankovic Sasa , Krunic Nebojsa , Ristic Kitka
Published: February 2006

Rehabilitation of alveolar bone with tissue defect caused by advanced osteoporosis is a common problem in stomatology and maxillofacial surgery. One of therapeutic approaches is implantation of biomaterials. The aim of this study was to estimate biocompatibility, osteoconductive and reparative capabilities of biomaterials in wound healing of rats which are experimentally treated with corticosteroids during 12 weeks to produce osteoporosis. The syngenic Sprague Dolly female rats 6-8 weeks old were divided into the experimental and control groups. In the experimental group comprising 5 subgroups, the bone defects were made in the left mandible by 1.4 mm borer, in sterile conditions. In the first subgroup of rats healing wasspontaneous. In other four subgroups hydroxyapatite (HAp) composite, a mixture of HAp and autologous plasma, a mixture of HAp and fibrin glue, and glass jonomer bone cement were used, respectively. The best results were obtained with a mixture of HAp with plasma. Histologically, the new bone tissue was found in both spongious and compact mandibular parts. Our. results suggest that HAp can help in new bone tissue formation in animals treated with corticosteroids.
Clinical use of calcium sulphate in bone regeneration therapy: Case report
Authors: Radulovic Milan , Brkovic Bozidar
Published: February 2006

It is well known that a variety of materials has been used to fill bone defects after oral surgery procedures. In this study, we showed 2 patients with large osseus defects after oral surgery procedures which were filled with calcium sulphate. The use of this alloplastic material should indicate on effective bone regeneration therapy.
Recent consideration on diagnosis and therapy of gingival desquamative lesions: Case report
Authors: Ljuskovic Besir , Dakovic Dragana
Published: February 2006

The purpose of the studywas to present a case of desquamative gingivitis and indicate to diagnosis and therapy od desquamative lesions of gingivae. The case of desquamative gingivitis in 75 year old patient is shown. Despite pathohistological and immunofluorescent analyses having been done, the origin of the disease could not have been established at first. The undertaken therapy gave limited results. The patient did not show up for the check up for 2,5 years. When he finally came, the clinical situation was the same as the first examination. The bioptic material gave positive results. Continuous linear deposits of IgG and IgA along the basement membrane were found. The histopathological diagnosis presentes a pemphigoid. Metilprednisolon 40mg per day was prescribed, with gradual dicrease of the dose, along with tetracycline 4x250mg per day. Therapy lasted for six and a half months. Changes on the gingivae completely retreated after three months.
Writing biomedical texts in english. II. Correct use of verbs
Authors: Todorovic Gordana , Todorovic Ljubomir
Published: February 2006

Exchange of information is the basic aspect of any scientific communication. It is well known that the English language is the chosen language of communication in contemporary biomedical sciences. One of the major problems that occur in communication (both oral and written) in English which should not be underestimated, is the correct use of the language by authors for whom English is the second language. Our aim was to single out the most common mistakes made in the use of verbs. The errors dealt with commonly arise from confusion of number, misuse of the infinitive, the use of un-English expressions, misuse of verbs with apparently similar meaning imprecisely applied verbs, or misinterpretation of phrasal verbs.
Influence of "soft start" polymerization on marginal sealing in resin composite restorations
Authors: Blazic Larisa , Zivkovic Slavoljub
Published: February 2006

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the marginal microleakage in Class II with different materials in resin composite restorations cured by using "soft start" and standard polymerization techniques. Two adhesive Class II cavities were prepared in 50 human teeth with enamel in-between. Samples were divided into 5 groups and filled with composite resins, compatible flow resin composites and bonding systems. The ocluso-mesial restorations were cured with standard curing technique, and the ocluso-distal restorations were cured with "soft start" curing technique. After thermocycling, the teeth were immersed in silver nitrate solution and sectioned for leakage evaluation. The results pointed out, after "soft start" and standard curing techniques, that the best marginal behavior in Class II restorations was obtained with Tetric Ceram / Tetric Flow composite resins, then with Filtek Z 250 / Filtek Flow, followed by Admira Admira Flow and Point / Revolution composite materials. The deepest dye penetration was found in cavities with Diamond Lite / Diamond Link composite restorations. No statistically significant difference was found in the tested composite resin restorations, whether treated with "soft start" polymerization or with standard polymerization technique, in regard to marginal micro leakage.
Scanning electron microscopy of root canal walls after removing the smear layer
Authors: Gasic Jovanka , Dacic-Simonovic Dragica , Radicevic Goran , Mitic Aleksandar , Stojilkovic Goran , Dakovic Jelena
Published: February 2006

The purpose of this study was to investigate ultrastructurally the effect of smear layer removal by applying different root canal irrigances: 3% HO2, 4% NaOCl and 15% Na-EDTA (in combination with 3% HO2, 4% NaOCl) and establish the appearance of root canal dentine surface after treatment with 15% Na-EDTA for different time periods(1 min and 5 min) using additional irrigant 3% HOor 4% NaOCl. 22 22 Teeth with single and double canals extracted for orthodontic reasons, were used in this study. After instrumentation, coronal and apical parts were removed. Middle parts were cut longitudinally into two equal segments. The specimens were grouped and treated: with HO2, NaOCl, and with combination of Na-EDTA+ HO2 and Na-EDTA+NaOCl where the irrigation with 2 Na-EDTA lasted 1 or 5 minutes. Control segments were enlarged and irrigated with distillate water to obtain the smear layer. The results obtained showed that irrigation with HOand NaOCl did 22 not remove the smear layer, one-minute application of 15% Na-EDTA followed by 4% NaOCl showed that the smear layer was completely removed. Using of 3% HOafter Na-EDTA over the same period of time obtained 22 less "clear" surfaces. Five-minute application of Na-EDTA caused excessive peritubular and intertubular dentinal erosion. It is concluded that for effective removal of smear layer with Na- EDTA, this procedure should not last longer than 1 minute and should be followed by NaOCl.
Clinical evaluation of composite materials for pit and fissure sealing
Authors: Petrovic Vanja , Vulicevic Zoran , Markovic Dejan
Published: February 2006

Sistemic fluoride ingestion has been found to be more effective in its caries- reducing benefits on the smooth surfaces than on the pit and fissures. A greater vulnerability to pit and fissure caries determines the need for occlusal surface specific protection. The objective of this study was to investigate clinical effectiveness of 5 different composite sealants during an 18- month observation period. Tested materials were: Superlux Seal-opak (composite with filler particles), Superlux Seal-transparent Estiseal and Fissurit (clear), and Fissurit F (composite with fluoride). They were evaluated according to modified Cvar&Ryge criteria for: retention (R), marginal adaptation (MA), marginal discoloration (MD), surface texture (ST), and secondary caries (SC). The materials were applied in 87 children 6-7 years of age, on 215 first permanent molars, two different materials for each patient. The results were tested for statistical significance by .2 and Fisher's T-test. The results showed good clinical performance of all tested materials with no statistically significant differences. High effectiveness in occlusal caries prevention rated from 97,30% for Fissurit F, and 98% for Superlux Sealopak, to 100% for all other tested sealants. Pit and fissure sealing is an effective prophylactic measure which should be part of the preventive program.
Evaluation of cephalometric parameters in determining the position of anterior teeth
Authors: Strajnic Ljiljana , Vucinic Predrag
Published: February 2006

In the study the cephalometric method was used to determine the position of the artificial central upper and lower incisors of edentulous patients class I, and natural central upper and lower incisors of dentulous individuals class I. Cephalometric radiographs of edentulous patients were made with a precisely set position of frontal teeth and marked central incisors. The control group consisted of 30 lateral cephalometric radiographs of dentulous persons class I. Certain of Schwartz and Steiner cephalometric radiograph analysis were used for precise sagittal positioning of upper and lower central incisors. To set precisely the position of these teeth in a sagittal position, the inclination of their axle was analyzed on each cephalometric radiograph, as well as the position of their vestibular surfaces related to the specific craniofacial elements. Statistically significant differences of the value of the angle of inclination of artificial upper and lower incisors of edentulous patients class I, and the angle of inclination of natural upper and lower incisors of dentulous persons, class I, were determined.
A bimanual manipulation technique for establishing the CR position
Authors: Martinovic Zeljko
Published: February 2006

In this work, we demonstrate a modern concept of the cr position. We analyze main characteristics of the central relation position from mechanical and physiological aspects. Furthermore, we discuss the bimanual manipulation technique on the lower jaw, required for balancinh procedures or investigation of premature contacts. Since an effective manipulation technique requires a combination of gentle yet firm digital pressure in a cranial direction., with a good sense of timing, clinician needs to have ! a mental picture of what is happening in TMJs and how are muscles affected by different movements and pressure. We have specifically presented instructions on firm-digital-pressure test. With this test it is possible to effectively verify the consistency of a certain cr position as well as to exclude the intra-articulating problems. Most of the time when the patient is tense and uncooperative, it is because the pressure is applied on the mandibule before the lower jaw is gently positioned into its most cranial position with separate dental arches. It seems, at least for now, that there are no procedures which can provide so much practical benefit for both the clinican and the patient at the same time, as can routine registration of the cr position and verification of its accuracy.
Features of language for scientific and technical purposes
Authors: Micic Sofija
Published: February 2006

In the paper, the difference between 'general' or 'standard' and 'language for special/specific purposes' (LSP) has been pointed out. Due to the predominance of English as a leading global language, the classification of English is presented. Some terms related to LSP have been defined (register functional style, genre). Special attention was paid to genre analysis. A detailed analysis was done about scientific style with its features including the language of medicine. Finally, the importance of standardization of medical terminology in Serbian was shown by giving examples from medical journals. Some future trends in development of language for medical purposes have been outlined.
Cephalometrically analysis of the convexity angle
Authors: Strajnic Ljiljana
Published: February 2006

The convexity angle of facial bone structures ( N-A: A-Pg) expresses the sagittal protrusion of the maxillary part of the face compared to facial profile (the convex or concave face).The convexity angle is defined as the angle colligated by the lines N-A and A-Pg. The aims of the present study were: to analyse the convexity angle in participants with natural teeth skeletal class I, to cephalometrically evaluate the reconstructing angle of hard facial profile structures of edentulous patients skeletal class I, to compare examined variables between individuals with natural teeth and edentulous patients. The control group consisted of 30 lateral cephalometric radiographs of participants with natural teeth skeletal class I. The experimental group consisted of 30 lateral cephalometric radiographs of edentulous patients, with models of complete dentures after clinical methods of determining the vertical and horizontal intermaxillary relation. Analysis of the convexity angle was done in cephalometric radiographs by Downs metod. The results showed the facial bone structure convexity angle span a range between -13? and 10? (X= 0.45?) in subjects with natural teeth. In edentulous patients the values of facial bone structure convexity angles span a range between -5? and 10? (X=1.7?). The results of t-test proved that there were no statistically significant differences in examined variables between persons with natural teeth and edentulous patients (p>0.05). The conclusion is that clinical methods of determining the sagittal protrusion of the maxillary part of the face against the facial profile of edentulous patients used in the designing procedures of complete dentures were reliable enough in reconstruction of examined angles of hard facial profile structures.
The therapeutic effects of occlusal equilibration in patients with craniomandibular disorders
Authors: Dodic Slobodan
Published: February 2006

In order to evaluate the role of occlusal factors in the etiology of CMD two groups of participants were selected for this investigation according to the value of the craniomandibular index ( CMI), Fricton and Schiffman 1975. The control group consisted of 17 participants, both male and female between 18 and 25 years of age with the preserved natural dentition, no indices of orthodontic treatment and with the value of the CMI = 0. The experimental group consisted of 15 participants, male and female, between 18 and 25 years of age with preserved natural dentition, no indices of orthodontic treatmen, but with evident signs and symptoms of CM disorders the CMI >0). The chosen participants of the control and experimental group were subject to detailed occlusal analysis which included the number of occlusal contacts in the ICP, RCP,the type of lateral guidance of the mandible and the presence of occlusal interferences during mandibular movements. Using selective grinding the occlusal interferences were eliminated in participants of the experimetal group. The CMI was calculated in this group after selective grinding. The results of the occlusal analysis in this study point to the signifficantly greater number of mediotrusive, retrusive and protrusive interferences in participants of the experimental group The values of CMI before ( CMI I) and after selective grinding (CMI II) in the experimental group confirm the assumption that occlusal interferences play a significant role in the etiology of CMD.
A comparative investigation of the cleaning efficacy of different manual and mechanical endodontic instruments (SEM study)
Authors: Dacic Dragoslav , Zivkovic Slavoljub
Published: February 2006

The purpose of this SEM study was to evaluate the cleaning effects of different manual and mechanical endodontic instruments. Sixty single canal human teeth were selected for this study. The root canals were instrumented by seven types of manual endodontic instruments (K-enlargers, K files Rattail files, K-Flexofiles, K Flex files, Hedstrom and NiTi Flex files) and five different mechanical endodontic instruments (Rispi, Rat tail Hedstrom, NiTi Flex files and K-enlargers). During and after the instrumentation, the canals were irrigated by 2.5% sodium hypochlorit. After splitting the roots longitudinally, the amount of debris and smear layer was quantified on the basis of a numerical evaluation scale, using scanning electron microscope. Results were statistically analysed using the Kruskal-Wallis test and t-test. There were no statistically significant differences between hand instrumentation and machine instrumentation with different endodontic instruments for any of the variables tested. Best instrumentation results in removing the smear layer and dentinal debris from the root canal were obtained with Kerr, NiTi and Hedstrom hand files and with K-enlargers, NiTi and Rat-tail mechanical files. In the apical thirds of root canals prepared using hand and mechanical endodontic instruments the smear layer and dentinal debris were always more abundant when compared with the middle and coronal thirds. In conslusion, cleaning efficacy differed slightly among the techniques and instruments, none of them completely removed smear layer and all left some debris.
Chemomechanical caries removal
Authors: Peric Tamara , Markovic Dejan
Published: February 2006

The purpose of this paper was to introduce Carisolv? system for chemo-mechanical caries removal and its main characteristics, mechanism of action, clinical procedure and the efficacy of this alternative method. New materials and technical and technological development contributed to more precise and efficient work in dentistry. However, problems of rotary instruments for caries removal have remained. Chemomechanical method for caries removal was introduced thirty years ago as an alternative to the conventional mechanical instruments. The technique involved applying a solution onto the carious tissue, allowing it to soften and to remove it without use of drill. Its advantages were: selective removal of carious tissue, absence of pain, reduced need for local anesthesia and reduced potential negative effects to the dental pulp.
Fibro-osseous lesions of the jaws
Authors: Minic Arsa
Published: February 2006

Fibro-osseous lesions of the jaws usually present a diagnostic dilemma for the clinician as well as the pathologist. This group includes fibrous dysplasia, ossifying fibroma, focal cemento-osseous dysplasia, periapical cemento-osseous dysplasia, and florid cemento-osseous dysplasia. As in other sites, appropriate clinicopathologic correlations are needed to reach a definitive diagnosis. The clinical and pathologic features of fibro-osseous lesions of the jaws are considered, including adequate therapeutic strategies.
Immunohistological characteristics of collagen, laminin and sialoadhesin in the rat submandibular salivary gland during ontogenesis
Authors: Dozic Ivan , Colic Miodrag
Published: February 2006

The aim of this study was to investigate the expression of collagen, laminin and sialoadhesin in the rat submandibular salivary gland during postnatal development (1st, 30th,and 60th day) by using various monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) RMC-23 (specific for collagen),a6?1 (specific for laminin) and ED3 (specific for sialoadhezin). These components of extracellular matrix were detected. RMC-23 mAb showed strong positivity to the basal membranes of the ductal system (intercalated, striated and excretory ducts) and of intersticium. Increased expression in the basal membrane of acini during development of glands was noted. Similar immunoreactivity was shown by?mAb but the intersticium showed a negative reaction to 1a6 this antibody. Positive reactivity of ?1a6 mAb of epithelial ductal cells, particularly of the neonatal animals, was found. In contrast to ? 1a6 and RMC23 mAbs, ED3 mAb was increasingly expressed in the myoepithelial cells during ontogenesis. Our findings regarding the immunoreactivity of collagens and laminins are in accordance with the findings of other autors. The very interesting finding of sialoadhesin in myoepithelial cells of the rat submandibular salivary gland, which is not described in literature and needs further investigation. Our results suggest that adhesion molecules and extracellular matrix proteins have an important biochemical role during postnatal development of the submandibular salivary gland.
A kinematic analysis of mandibular border movements in patients with craniomandibular disorderds
Authors: Dodic Slobodan , Sinobad Vladimir
Published: February 2006

Disturbances in mandibular kinematics are supposed to be one of the main signs of craniomandibular disorders (CMD). In that regard, recordings of mandibular border movements may offer valuable data in assessing functional efficiency of the OF complex, as well as in diagnosing CM disorders. The electronic pantograph Arcus Digma (Kavo EWL GmBH, Leutkirch, Germany) was used in this study to record and evaluate the trajectories of the interincisal point in three planes during mandibular protrusion laterotrusion and mouth opening. Two groups of volunteers between 18 and 26 years of age were established for this investigation: one consisting of persons with signs (symptoms) of CMD and the other of persons without such signs and symptoms. The results of this study point out the significant differences in the length and shape of interincisal point tracings in the horisontal plane, as well as in angulation of laterotrusive tracings between the examined groups. The reduced mandibular opening was established in 17% of females and 13% of males in the group presenting the signs (symptoms) of CMD.
Microbiological assessment of the chemo-mechanical caries removal
Authors: Markovic Dejan , Pavlica Dusan , Peric Tamara
Published: February 2006

The aim of the study was to assess the efficacy of the chemo-mechani- cal method for caries removal based on microbiological analyses of dentine samples. Sixty freshly extracted teeth with coronaly caries were analysed. In the experimental group (30 teeth) chemo-mechanical caries removal was performed, and in the control group (30 teeth) rotary instruments were used. Before the caries treatment and at the completion of cavity preparation dentine samples were taken by sterile round ISO 012 bur for microbiological analyses. Results of the study showed significant differences between initial and final dentine samples, while differences between the experimental and control group were not significant. The microbiological analyses in the present study imply that the chemo-mechanical method for caries removal is as efficient as the conventional technique.