bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Human Neutrophil Gelatinase and Associated Lipocalin in Adult and Localized Juvenile Periodontitis
Authors: Westerlund U. , Ingman T. , Lukinmaa P.-L. , Salo T. , Kjeldsen L. , Borregaard N. , Tjäderhane L. , Konttinen Y.T. , Sorsa T.
Published: January 2009

In search of direct in vivo evidence of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) in periodontal tissue destruction, we studied the presence and localization of MMP-9 and neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) in adult periodontitis (AP) and localized juvenile periodontitis (LJP) gingival tissue specimens by immunohistochemistry, and the activities of gelatinases by Western blot, enzymography, and activity measurements, using radioactive gelatin as substrate in gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) and saliva. In gingival tissue obtained from AP and LJP patients, polymorphonuclear leukocyte (PMN) 92-kDa MMP-9 and NGAL were seen in the connective tissue, but both the sulcular and the oral epithelia were consistently negative. Whereas PMNs located in the gingival blood vessels showed strictly cytoplasmic MMP-9 and NGAL immunoreactivities, in the case of PMN extravasation the staining reactions extended extracellularly. Gelatinase activities consisting mainly of 92-kDa gelatinase were increased in AP GCF relative to LJP GCF and periodontally healthy control GCF. Western blot with specific anti-NGAL antibodies revealed the presence of 25-kDa NGAL and its high-molecular-weight forms in AP and LJP GCF and saliva and in culture medium of oral keratinocytes, but not in gingival fibroblast culture medium. We conclude that extravasated degranulating PMNs are the major source of MMP-9 and NGAL in periodontitis gingiva, GCF, and saliva.
Utilization of Sialic Acid by Viridans Streptococci
Authors: Byers H.L. , Homer K.A. , Beighton D.
Published: January 2009

The importance of viridans streptococci as agents of serious extra-oral diseases, including endocarditis, is now recognized. We have tested the hypothesis that the ability to utilize sialic acid as a nutrient source may play a role in the proliferation of these organisms. The type strains of the 15 presently recognized species of viridans streptococci and two clinical isolates— S. oralis (AR3), isolated from a patient with infective endocarditis, and S. intermedius (UNS35), a brain abscess isolate-were studied for their ability to utilize sialic acid. Only S. oral is, S. sanguis, S. gordonii, S. mitis ("oralis group") S. intermedius, S. anginosus, S. constellatus ("milleri group"), and S. defectivus ("nutritionally variant group") were able to use sialic acid (N-acetylneuraminic acid) efficiently as a sole carbon source. Formate, acetate, and ethanol were produced as the major metabolic end-products of sialic acid metabolism, while corresponding glucose-grown cultures produced lactate as the major metabolic end-product. Utilization of sialic acid was independent of the production of sialidase. Cell-free extracts of sialic acid-grown cultures expressed elevated levels of N-acetylneuraminate pyruvate-lyase (NPL; the first enzyme in the intracellular catabolism of sialic acid) and N-acetylglucosamine-6-phosphate (GlcNAc-6-P) deacetylase and glucosamine-6-phosphate (GlcN-6-P) deaminase (enzymes involved in the intracellular catabolism of N-acetylglucosamine). These activities were repressed by growth in the presence of glucose. The intracellular fate of sialic acid, after cleavage by NPL into N-acetylmannosamine (ManNAc) and pyruvate, is uncertain, but the elevated levels of GlcNAc-6-P deacetylase and GlcN-6-P deaminase in sialic acid-grown cells suggest that phosphorylation and isomerization are possible steps in the metabolism of ManNAc to generate an intermediate common to the pathway of N-acetylglucosamine metabolism. The species of viridans streptococci that have the ability to utilize sialic acid are those most commonly associated with extra-oral diseases, and this ability is likely to play a role in the persistence and survival of these infecting organisms in vivo.
Hydrolysis of Triclosan Monophosphate by Dental Plaque and Selected Species of Oral Micro-organisms
Authors: Greenman J. , Nelson D.G.A.
Published: January 2009

Triclosan monophosphate is a phosphorylated derivative of the antimicrobial agent, triclosan. In comparison with triclosan, it is highly soluble in aqueous solutions. It is hypothesized that, within the oral environment, triclosan monophosphate (which may be devoid of antimicrobial activity) will be hydrolyzed into triclosan by the action of microbial phosphatases. The liberated triclosan may then exert antimicrobial activity. To test this hypothesis, we designed experiments to measure the phosphatase activity of plaque and selected species of oral micro-organisms and to demonstrate hydrolysis of triclosan monophosphate. Tests comparing the minimal inhibitory concentration and minimal bactericidal concentration of triclosan and triclosan monophosphate were also undertaken. Dental plaque and the majority of the bacterial strains tested showed phosphatase activity against p-nitrophenyl phosphate which peaked below neutral pH (acid phosphatases) or above neutral pH (alkaline phosphatases). Dental plaque showed the highest levels of alkaline phosphatase (optimum at pH 9.0) and relatively high levels of acid phosphatase (optimum at pH 6.0 to 6.5). Dental plaque and selected species of micro-organisms were all capable of hydrolyzing triclosan monophosphate, albeit at different rates. The minimal inhibitory concentration and minimal bactericidal concentration values for triclosan monophosphate against eight bacterial strains were always considerably higher than the corresponding values for triclosan. Addition of triclosan monophosphate to an established culture (ca. 109 cfu/mL) of Capnocytophaga gingivalis growing continuously showed that triclosan monophosphate was rapidly hydrolyzed into triclosan with concomitant loss of total bacterial viability. It is therefore likely that triclosan monophosphate will be broken down into triclosan within the oral environment with concomitant antimicrobial activity.
Immunohistochemical Localization of HLA-DR-positive Cells in Unerupted and Erupted Normal and Carious Human Teeth
Authors: Yoshiba N. , Yoshiba K. , Nakamura H. , Iwaku M. , Ozawa H.
Published: January 2009

Class II major histocompatibility complex (MHC) antigen-expressing cells are generally associated with the early phase of the immune response. We have studied the distribution of class II-expressing cells in developing, normal, and carious human teeth to clarify when human pulp acquires an immunologic defense potential and how this reacts to dental caries. Antigen-expressing cells were identified immunohistochemically by means of HLA-DR monoclonal antibody. In the pulp of unerupted developing teeth, numerous HLA-DR-positive cells were distributed mainly in and around the odontoblast layer. In erupted teeth, HLA-DR-positive cells were located, for the most part, just beneath the odontoblast layer, with slender cytoplasmic processes extending into the layer. Superficial caries lesions caused an aggregation of HLA-DR-positive cells in dental pulp corresponding to the lesion. In teeth with deeper caries lesions, this aggregation of cells expanded to include the odontoblast layer. Also noted were HLA-DR-positive cells lying along the pulp-dentin border, with cytoplasmic processes projecting deep into the dentinal tubules, where they co-localized with odontoblast processes. These findings suggest that: (1) human dental pulp is equipped with immunologic defense potential prior to eruption; (2) in the initial stage of caries infection, an immunoresponse mediated by class-II-expressing cells is initiated in human dental pulp; and (3) HLA-DR-positive cells trespass deep into dentinal tubules as the caries lesion advances.
Tongue, Jaw, and Lip Muscle Activity and Jaw Movement during Experimental Chewing Efforts in Man
Authors: Takada K. , Yashiro K. , Sorihashi Y. , Morimoto T. , Sakuda M.
Published: January 2009

The electromyographic (EMG) activity of the human genioglossus (GG) muscle during chewing efforts is not fully understood. In this study, the EMG activity of the human GG muscle during unilateral gum chewing was illustrated and correlated with the activities in the anterior temporalis (AT), the anterior digastric (DG), and the inferior orbicularis oris (OI) muscles. GG muscle activity was measured with customized surface electrodes, while other muscles were recorded with conventional surface electrodes. EMG activities during tongue displacement and the articulation of long vowels, recorded by the customized electrodes, were consistent with the recordings obtained by fine wire electrodes placed in the GG muscle. Jaw displacement was monitored by means of a kinesiograph with a transducer attached to the mandibular central incisors. Mean normalized GG muscle activity showed an onset in the last one-fifth of the intercuspal phase, gradually increasing during jaw-opening, and at its greatest immediately before the maximum jaw-opening position. It then decreased during jaw-closing and ceased in intercuspation but showed a small rebound in the third fifth of the intercuspal phase. The GG muscle burst showed phase lags with the DG and 01 muscles and an opposite phase with the AT muscle (all P < 0.0001). All correlations were statistically significant (all P < 0.0001, r values between 0.88 and 0.97). The results suggest central coordination of the timing of the activities of the jaw, lip, and tongue muscles in chewing.
The Influence of Comonomer Composition on Dimethacrylate Resin Properties for Dental Composites
Authors: Anseth K.S. , Goodner M.D. , Reil M.A. , Kannurpatti A.R. , Newman S.M. , Bowman C.N.
Published: January 2009

During the polymerization of multifunctional monomers for dental restorations, typical final double-bond conversions range from 55 to 75%. The low conversion results in a large amount of extractable monomer, reduced adhesion to the filler, and the potential for increased swelling. In this work, the ability to increase the maximum conversion by optimizing the copolymer composition is explored. A series of multi-ethylene glycol dimethacrylate monomers of various lengths was used as a model system to determine how the copolymer composition affects the final conversion, the mechanical properties, and the predicted shrinkage. It was found that the ultimate conversion can be significantly increased, shrinkage decreased, and mechanical properties maintained. It was found that up to 30 wt% of poly(ethylene glycol) 600 dimethacrylate could be added to diethylene glycol dimethacrylate without reducing the strength and increasing the conversion. Results for other comonomer combinations were similar.
Inhibitory Effect of the Topical Administration of a Bisphosphonate (Risedronate) on Root Resorption Incident to Orthodontic Tooth Movement in Rats
Authors: Igar K. , Adachi H. , Mitani H. , Shinoda H.
Published: January 2009

Root resorption associated with tooth movement is an unsolved problem in orthodontics. If such root resorption could be prevented, it would be an important contribution toward reducing risk factors in orthodontic treatment. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of the topical administration of a bisphosphonate, risedronate, which is known to be a potent blocker of bone resorption, on root resorption during tooth movement and on the repair of the resorbed root surface after tooth movement in rats. In the first experiment, both the right and left upper first molars were moved buccally with a standardized expansion spring under administration of risedronate. After day 7, extensive root resorption had occurred on the control side, and the area of root resorption reached a maximum on day 14. The topical administration of risedronate caused a significant and dose-dependent inhibition of root resorption after the orthodontic force was applied. In the second experiment, the right and left upper molars were first moved buccally for 3 weeks. Risedronate treatment began on the day the spring was removed. After the force was withdrawn, the resorbed root surfaces on both the control and risedronate-treated sides were gradually restored by apposition of repair cementum (cementoid). The topical administration of risedronate did not appear to inhibit the repair process of root resorption. These results suggest that the topical administration of risedronate may be useful in preventing root resorption of teeth during orthodontic treatment.
Expression of Adhesion Molecules during Tooth Resorption in Feline Teeth: A Model System for Aggressive Osteoclastic Activity
Authors: Shigeyama Y. , Grove T.K. , Strayhorn C. , Somerman M.J.
Published: January 2009

Tooth resorption, a common feline dental problem, is often initiated at the cemento-enamel junction and hence is called cat 'neck' lesion. Studies have demonstrated that osteoclasts/odontoclasts are increased and activated at resorption sites, and that areas of resorption are partly repaired by formation of tissues resembling bone, cementum, and possibly dentin. However, the cellular/molecular mechanisms/factors involved in resorption and repair are unknown. In this study of tissues from cats with 'neck' lesions, we used specific antibodies and immunohistochemical analyses to examine adhesion molecules associated with mineralized tissues, bone sialoprotein (BSP) and osteopontin (OPN), and a cell-surface receptor linked with these molecules, α vβ3, for their localization in these lesions. In addition, to determine general cellular activity during repair, we performed in situ hybridization using a type I collagen riboprobe.

Results showed OPN localized to resorption fronts and reversal lines, while BSP was localized to reversal lines. However, some osteoclasts and odontoblasts "sat" on mineralized surfaces not associated with OPN. The cell-surface receptor, αvβ 3, was localized to surfaces of osteoclasts/odontoclasts. Type I collagen mRNA was expressed where osteoblasts attempted to repair mineralized tissue. In contrast, odontoblasts did not express mRNA for type I collagen. This study suggests that osteoclastic resorption is the predominant activity in 'neck' lesions and that this activity was accompanied, at least in part, by increased concentrations of OPN and an associated integrin, α vβ3, at resorption sites. Lack of collagen expression by odontoblasts indicates that odontoblasts do not play an active role in attempts at repair.
Expression of Keratinocyte Growth Factor in Periapical Lesions
Authors: Gao Z. , Flaitz C.M. , Mackenzie I.C.
Published: January 2009

The epithelial proliferation associated with inflammatory periapical lesions and with periapical cyst formation represents an interesting but poorly understood pathological change. Keratinocyte growth factor (KGF) is a recently identified growth factor that is produced by stromal fibroblasts and acts specifically to stimulate epithelial growth and differentiation. To investigate its possible role in the activation of the normally quiescent rests of Malassez, we examined the expression of KGF by in situ hybridization of sections of normal periodontal ligament (PDL) and of 12 periapical granulomas or cysts. Normal PDL and periapical granulomas with scant inflammatory infiltration showed few cells expressing message for KGF. However, KGFexpressing cells were found in the connective tissue stroma close to dense foci of inflammatory cells and to proliferating epithelial elements and cystic epithelial linings. Examination of tissues by the reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) showed KGF expression in 4 specimens of periapical lesions but low or undetectable levels in normal PDL. These observations suggest that the induction of KGF expression in the stromal cells of periapical lesions may play an important role in stimulating the epithelial proliferation associated with cyst formation.
The Effect of a Fluoridated Toothpaste on Dentinal Lesions in Plaque-filled Grooves: An Intra-oral Crossover Study
Authors: Lagerweij M.D. , Damen J.J.M. , ten Cate J.M.
Published: January 2009

Recently, we introduced an intra-oral dentin demineralization model to evaluate the efficacy of a fluoridated toothpaste at plaque-retention sites with limited access to salivary components and fluoride. Usage of the fluoridated toothpaste reduced mineral loss from grooves in sound dentin by 15% compared with a non-fluoridated toothpaste (Lagerweij et al., 1997). In the current study, preformed dentinal lesions were subjected to similar toothpaste treatments. To improve the power of the model in discriminating between toothpaste groups, we changed the design from monadic to crossover to reduce the influence of variation between the participants. Two sets of specimens were placed in the partial prostheses of 29 participants who used a toothpaste containing either 1000 ppm fluoride or no fluoride during two consecutive six-week periods. Changes in mineral content were analyzed by transverse microradiography. The average mineral loss after the non-fluoride period was 1785 vol% x μm (SD 2399), and 1335 vol% x μm (SD 2039) after the fluoride period, a 25% inhibition in demineralization. Analysis of variance showed that the demineralization was significantly influenced not only by the type of treatment (p < 0.001 level), but also by the participant (p < 0.001), the width of the groove (p < 0.001), and the depth into the groove where changes in mineral content were measured (p < 0.017). Twenty-one percent of all the lesions showed remineralization. No significant difference in the extent or the occurrence of remineralization was found between the treatments.
Filler Leachability of Composites Stored in Distilled Water or Artificial Saliva
Authors: Soderholm K.-J.M. , Mukherjee R. , Longmate J.
Published: January 2009

Though dental composite materials leach filler elements when stored in distilled water, it is not known whether similar leaching occurs in saliva. The hypothesis to be tested was that due to ion exchange occurring at the filler surfaces, more filler elements leach from composites stored in a salt solution simulating saliva than from composites stored in distilled water. Another aim was to determine how matrix selection, filler composition, and filler silanization affect filler leachability of composites after storage in the simulated saliva and water media. We made 128 batches of experimental composites. Half of these used a bis-GMA/TEGDMA matrix and the other a UEDMA/TEGDMA matrix. Either silica or barium glass filler particles were incorporated into these matrices. Filler silanization was followed by a filler drying at 60°C for 24 h. Half of the silanized particles received an additional heat treatment for 1 h at 110°C in vacuum. One specimen per batch was stored in distilled water and the other in artificial saliva at 37°C. After each 30-day interval for one year, the specimens were transferred to either freshly distilled water or newly mixed artificial saliva. The "old" solutions were analyzed by ICP for determination of the Si, Ba, and Al concentrations. Analysis of variance revealed that storage solution, filler composition, and total time in the storage solution had strong effects on the leachability (p < 0.0001 in all cases). The average monthly leakage of Si for quartz-filled composites was 0.22 ± 0.20 μg/mL (distilled water) and 2.80 ± 1.20 μg/mL (artificial saliva). For barium-glass-filled composites, the corresponding Si leaching values were 0.73 ± 0.48 μg/mL and 5.00 ± 2.20 ug/mL. The monthly means of the barium leaching values were 2.00 ± 1.00 ug/mL (distilled water) and 3.10 ± 1.80 ug/mL (artificial saliva). The large difference between leaching in artificial saliva and in distilled water, as well as the interaction between storage medium and filler, cast doubt on the clinical relevance of in vitro studies using distilled water.
Maximum Likelihood Estimates for the Lifetime of Bonded Dental Prostheses
Authors: de Rijk W.G. , Wood M. , Thompson V.P.
Published: January 2009

Clinical studies measuring the lifetime of dental prostheses produce censored data when not all specimens have failed during the course of the study. Such clinical data can be analyzed by the Weibull probability distribution function. Algorithms are presented that provide the maximum likelihood estimates of the distribution's parameters. These parameters are the characteristic lifetime (time to failure for 63% of the specimens of the total sample) and the Weibull or shape parameter. Two iterative methods for solving the maximum likelihood equations are given. These mathematical methods have been applied to the results from a retrospective clinical investigation into the lifetime assessment of resin-bonded prostheses. This study evaluated 164 resin-bonded prostheses (for 146 patients) placed between January, 1980, and May, 1985. To date (April, 1995), 47 prostheses (29%) have failed with a median time in service of 74 months (6.2 yr). For the surviving prostheses, the median time in service is 123 months (10.3 yr) and still increasing. The maximum likelihood estimate of the characteristic lifetime for these restorations is 255 months (21.3 yr). Differences in the characteristic lifetime were observed between prostheses placed anteriorly, 338 months (28 yr), and posteriorly, 207 months (17 yr). Since there are no rigorous confidence intervals for deeply censored samples, only provisional confidence bounds could be determined, which substantiated the observed differences. The Weibull modulus value of 1.5 indicates that the probability of failure for resin-bonded prostheses begins to decrease after 10 years in service.
Cloning, DNA Sequence, and Alternative Splicing of Opossum Amelogenin mRNAs
Authors: Hu C.-C. , Zhang C. , Qian Q. , Ryu O.H. , Moradian-Oldak J. , Fincham A.G. , Simmer J.P.
Published: January 2009

The enamel layer that covers the surfaces of teeth is thickest and most highly mineralized in mammals. The durability of mammalian enamel may have allowed for selection against the lifelong replacement of teeth that is observed in other vertebrates. Variation in enamel structure among animals is thought to be the result of evolutionary changes in the constituents of the developing enamel matrix. In placental mammals, the principal component of this matrix is amelogenin. We have determined the complete primary structures of two opossum amelogenins through a combination of protein sequencing, cloning, and DNA sequencing. RNA messages were cloned that encode 202- and 57-residue amelogenins, which are presumed to be expressed from the same gene but differ due to alternative splicing of identical pre-mRNAs. Edman degradation of the larger amelogenin ran for 42 cycles and yielded the sequence: IPLPPHPGHPGYINFS YEVLTPLKWYQSMMRQQYPSYGYEPM. The derived 202-residue amelogenin, assuming that serine 16 is phosphorylated, has an isotope-averaged molecular mass of 23,023.75 Daltons and a pI of 6.2. This is the largest amelogenin yet characterized. The increase in length is due to the presence of a 30-residue tandem repeat of QP(I/M) in exon 6 in the same position as a similar, but shorter, repeat expressed from the bovine X-chromosome. The 57-residue amelogenin, which is known from other organisms as the leucine-rich amelogenin protein (LRAP), has an isotope-averaged molecular mass of 6764.75 Daltons and a pI of 5.5. The opossum enamel protein is highly homologous to those previously characterized in eutherians and demonstrates that amelogenins were refined structurally prior to the metatherian/eutherian divergence between 100 and 150 million years ago.
Differential Expression of Human High-molecular-weight Salivary Mucin (MG1) and Low-molecular-weight Salivary Mucin (MG2)
Authors: Nielsen P.A. , Mandel U. , Therkildsen M.H. , Clausen H.
Published: January 2009

Two distinct mucin components of saliva, MG1 and MG2, have been identified based on chemical composition and molecular weights (high and low, respectively) in saliva. With the aim of characterizing the expression pattern of salivary mucins, we have prepared monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) directed against the peptide core of MG1 and against a synthetic peptide derived from the MG2 (MUC7) sequence. MAb PANH2 raised against partially deglycosylated MG1 stained a high-molecular-weight smear in Western blots of partially purified MG1. PANH2 binding was increased by deglycosylation with trifluoromethanesulfonic acid as well as with subsequent periodate treatment, and was eliminated by pronase treatment, strongly suggesting that MAb PANH2 was directed to a peptide epitope of MG1. MAb PANH3 raised against a synthetic peptide derived from the MG2 (MUC7) sequence reacted with the native molecule and stained a narrow smear of ca. 200,000 to 210,000 in Western blots of concentrated saliva and a lower-molecular-weight smear of trifluoromethanesulfonic-acid-treated MG2. Immunohistology on frozen sections of human salivary glands showed that MAb PANH2 selectively labeled mucous cells, whereas MAb PANH3 labeled subpopulations of serous cells. Double-direct immunofluorescence staining with PANH2 and PANH3 demonstrated that the staining patterns were non-overlapping. The development of these antibody probes will facilitate studies of mucin expression in diseases of salivary glands.
A Morphometric Investigation of Myotube Formation in Rabbit Embryo Medial Pterygoid Muscle
Authors: Benoît R. , Baudoin C.
Published: January 2009

To determine the times of the appearance of myoblasts, early myotubes, late myotubes, and myofibers, we studied a region between two aponeuroses of the medial pterygoid masticatory muscle in embryos of two strains of rabbits, without disturbing the normal innervation. The objectives of this study were to define the quantitative relations among these cells and to determine their kinetics statistically. We used Fauve de Bourgogne and New Zealand rabbit embryos on day 17, day 17 plus 12 hours, day 18, day 18 plus 12 hours, and days 20, 22, and 28 of gestation. Cell proliferation was studied with a light microscope, by means of counting methods. Similar development was observed in the two strains of rabbits. The numbers of myoblasts decreased as follows: (i) a marked decrease; (ii) a sudden cessation of the decrease, marked by a rebound at 18 days, and lasting less than 24 hours; and (iii) a plateau between embryonic days 22 and 28. The onset of reduction in the number of early myotubes coincided with the rebound of myoblasts. The number of late myotubes increased at the time of maximal early myotube density and during rebound of the myoblasts. Myofiber densities were similar to late myotube densities on day 22. We suggest that early myotubes are formed very gradually by fusion of myoblasts, and that the significant increase in the numbers of myoblasts corresponds to the second generation of myoblasts necessary for differentiation of late myotubes. Key words: masticatory muscles, models, statistical, rabbits. Received April 18, 1994; Accepted May 30, 1996
The Effects of Acetone, Ethanol, HEMA, and Air on the Stiffness of Human Decalcified Dentin Matrix
Authors: Maciel K.T. , Carvalho R.M. , Ringle R.D. , Preston C.D. , Russell C.M. , Pashley D.H.
Published: January 2009

During resin-bonding procedures, dentin surfaces are treated with acidic conditioners to remove the smear layer and decalcify the surface to expose the collagen fibrils of the underlying matrix. These decalcified surfaces are then either air-dried or treated with dehydrating solvents, procedures which may modify the physical properties of the dentin matrix. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of dehydration on the stiffness of the decalcified dentin matrix. Small (8 x 1.7 x 0.9 mm) beams of dentin were prepared from mid-coronal dentin of extracted human molars. The ends were covered with varnish for protection, and the specimens were placed in 0.5 M EDTA for 5 days to decalcify. The stiffness was measured by both the cantilever technique and by conventional stress-strain testing. Specimens tested by the cantilever technique were sequentially exposed to water, acetone, alcohol, HEMA, and glutaraldehyde. Specimens tested by conventional stress-strain testing were exposed either to water, acetone, or HEMA, or were allowed to air-dry. The results indicate that the stiffness of decalcified human dentin matrix is very low (ca. 7 MPa), if the specimens are wet with water. As they are dehydrated, either chemically in water-miscible organic solvents or physically in air, the stiffness increases 20- to 38-fold at low strains or three- to six-fold at high strains. These increases in modulus were rapidly reversed by rehydration in water. Exposure to glutaraldehyde also produced an increase in stiffness that was not reversible when the specimens were placed back in water.
Adhesive Bonding to Dentin with Ferrous Chloride Primers and Tri-n-butylborane-initiated Luting Agents
Authors: Taira Y. , Matsumura H. , Yoshida K. , Tanaka T. , Atsuta M.
Published: January 2009

A variety of surface modifications with metal chlorides has been used to enhance the bond of resins to dentin. This study investigated the effectiveness of ferrous chloride in terms of the initiation of polymerization in dentin bonding. The efficacy of experimental dentin primers was evaluated via the bonding of two luting agents to dentin. The 16 primers evaluated were ferrous chloride (FeCl2) aqueous solutions, eight with and eight without 35% 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA). The concentrations of FeCl2 in the primers ranged from 2.0 x 10-6 to 5.0 x 10-4 mol/g. One luting agent (Super-Bond C&B) consisted of methyl methacrylate (MMA), 4-methacryloyloxyethyl trimellitate anhydride (4-META), and tri-n-butylborane (TBB) initiator. The other luting agent was prepared with MMA and TBB, but without 4-META. Bovine dentin surfaces were flattened, etched with an aqueous solution of 10% phosphoric acid, primed, and then bonded with stainless steel rods. Tensile strengths of the bonded specimens were measured after one-day immersion in water. Tensile testing revealed that the bond strength was influenced by the application of FeCl2 and/or HEMA. The maximum bond strength of 33.0 MPa was recorded with the use of primer containing FeCl2 and HEMA in MMA-TBB resin. In the case of Super-Bond, only surface treatment of dentin with aqueous primers containing 5.0 x 10-5 to 2.0 x 10-4 mol/g ferrous chloride resulted in bond strength values above 22.0 MPa. This bonding technique, combining the use of ferrous chloride primer with Super-Bond resin, may potentially be applied for seating resin-bonded restorations.
Surface Spectroscopy of Apatitic Materials: Limitations and Concerns
Authors: Wieliczka D.M. , Spencer P. , LeGeros R.Z.
Published: January 2009

The use of x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy for the study of biological materials has provided mixed results. The experimental difficulties associated with the application of this technique to the study of biological materials include the effects of ultra-high vacuum, x-ray exposure, surface charging, and, for insulating materials, the inherent lack of an intrinsic energy reference. Since most biological materials are insulators, the lack of an intrinsic energy reference complicates one's ability to draw direct comparisons between different studies. In this paper, the results from two different apatites are compared with the results obtained from the use of two conventional techniques for referencing binding energies. The results presented here are referenced only to the Pt Fermi level; no further energy modifications are performed. A comparison with the results of other investigators indicates a large difference in binding energies for all involved core levels. These results indicate that, in the study of insulating materials with x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, it is essential that all data be acquired under exacting conditions on the same experimental system.
Impedance Spectroscopy of Teeth with and without Approximal Caries Lesions-an in vitro Study
Authors: Huysmans M.-C.D.N.J.M. , Longbottom C. , Pitts N.B. , Los P. , Bruce P.G.
Published: January 2009

Caries diagnosis by the measurement of electrical resistance is hampered by polarization effects when dc or single-low-frequency ac currents are used. Electrical impedance spectroscopy, measuring impedance over a large range of frequencies, will provide more detailed information about the electrical characteristics of teeth. It was the aim of this study (a) to characterize the complex impedance behavior of whole extracted teeth, measured at the approximal surface, and (b) to identify parameters of the complex impedance behavior of the teeth which would be useful in distinguishing between degrees of carious involvement. Thirty-nine extracted premolar teeth with 59 unrestored and undamaged (excepting caries) approximal surfaces were selected. The tooth surfaces were divided into three groups according to their macroscopic appearance: sound (group S, n = 16), white- or brown-spot lesion present (group L, n = 33), or cavitated (group C, n = 10). The teeth were inserted into a jig which allowed for counter-electrode contact via a conducting gel. The working electrode consisted of a carbonated fiber material. Electrical impedance measurements were performed over a maximum range of about 1 MHz to 0.1 Hz. We analyzed electrical impedance data by fitting equivalent circuits. Fit was evaluated numerically and visually. The complex impedance spectra divided naturally into three groups which corresponded almost perfectly with the classifications of S, L, and C. The groups differed most in the dc resistance (Rdc), as calculated from the impedance parameters. Mean Rdc for groups S, L, and C were 68 MΩ, 5.9 MΩ, and 321 kΩ, respectively. These means were significantly different from each other (log-transformed data, ANOVA, p < 0.001; Tukey multiple comparisons, p < 0.001). It is concluded that the in vitro performance of electrical impedance spectroscopy in differentiating among sound, non-cavitated carious, and cavitated approximal tooth surfaces is excellent.
Taste Preference for Sweetness in Urban and Rural Populations in Iraq
Authors: Jamel H.A. , Sheiham A. , Cowell C.R. , Watt R.G.
Published: January 2009

The consumption of sweetened foods is influenced by a variety of biological, psychological, sociological, and environmental factors. On an individual level, taste preference for sweetness has been shown to have an influence on food consumption, although this may be affected by social and environmental factors. The aim of this study was to assess the taste preference for sweetness in urban and rural populations in Iraq. The hypothesis was that sweet preference and the consumption of sugar increase with urbanization. The sample was composed of 4152 individuals who were divided into urban and rural subgroups based on their place of residence. Sweet preference was assessed by means of a tested Sweet Preference Inventory. Results revealed statistically significant differences between urban and rural populations in preference for sweetness and in actual sugar consumption. Individuals from urban locations showed a much higher preference for sweetness than their rural counterparts and consumed more sugar. Within the urban population, those individuals who had lived in the city longer and who were from families with lower educational qualifications preferred the highest levels of sugar. The findings support the hypothesis that urbanization influences sweet preference and sugar consumption.
Emergence of Multiple Xylitol-resistant (Fructose PTS-) Mutants from Human Isolates of Mutans Streptococci during Growth on Dietary Sugars in the Presence of Xylitol
Authors: Trahan L. , Bourgeau G. , Breton R.
Published: January 2009

The growth inhibition of mutans streptococci is one of the proposed mechanisms of action of xylitol, a caries-preventive natural carbohydrate sweetener. Xylitol is taken up and accumulated as non-metabolizable, toxic xylitol phosphate via a constitutive fructose PTS, and selects, during in vitro growth at the expense of glucose, for natural xylitol-resistant mutants that lack constitutive fructose PTS activity. Since long-term xylitol consumption leads to the emergence of xylitol-resistant mutans populations in humans in an oral environment containing sugars of dietary origin, we wanted to test the hypothesis that xylitol-resistant cells could be selected from mutans streptococci strains during in vitro growth on fructose, sucrose, or lactose. Three laboratory strains and three fresh mutans streptococcal isolates were repeatedly transferred in trypticase-yeast extract medium supplemented with glucose, fructose, sucrose, or lactose in the presence and absence of xylitol. Depending on the growth sugar, the presence of xylitol resulted in the selection of xylitol-resistant populations for several of the six strains tested, but not necessarily in the presence of all four sugars. All six strains rapidly became xylitol-resistant when grown on glucose in the presence of xylitol. All three fresh isolates became xylitol-resistant after 9 to 16 transfers in the presence of fructose or sucrose plus xylitol, while none of the laboratory strains became xylitol-resistant after 16 transfers in the presence of these sugars. The growth rates of 12 xylitol-resistant mutants in the presence of eight sugars suggested the existence of various types of xylitol-resistant mutants. The data partially explain the occurrence of xylitol-resistant mutans populations in long-term xylitol consumers and suggest a mechanism consistent with a selection process. Since various preliminary results suggest that xylitol-resistant natural mutants may be less virulent and less cariogenic than their parent strains, this selection process may alter, for the better, the mutans streptococci population of the plaque and play a role in the caries-preventive action of xylitol.
Plaque pH and Microflora of Dental Plaque on Sound and Carious Root Surfaces
Authors: Aamdal-Scheie A. , Luan W.-M. , Dahlen G. , Fejerskov O.
Published: January 2009

Given the hypothesis that root caries is the result of acid formation by acidogenic micro-organisms, the present study was performed to relate sucrose-induced pH response of dental plaque on root surfaces to the microbial composition of the overlying plaque. Seventeen caries-active elderly Chinese with poor oral hygiene and with both sound and carious root surfaces were examined. Plaque pH was measured before and up to one hour after a controlled sucrose mouthrinse. Plaque samples for microbiologic analyses were collected from 2 sound and 2 or 3 carious pHmeasurement sites in each subject. The prevalence of the following micro-organisms was assessed as % of total viable counts on Brucella agar: Prevotella intermedia, Prevotella melaninogenica, Fusobacterium nucleatum, Campylobacter rectus, Capnocytophaga spp., Actinomyces viscosus, Actinomyces naeslundi, Streptococcus spp., S. sanguis, S. mitis, S. mutans, S. sobrinus, Lactobacillus spp., and Candida spp. There was no difference in plaque pH response on sound and carious root surfaces. The plaque pH response was more pronounced in the maxilla than in the mandible for both sound and carious sites. There was no difference in microbial composition of dental plaque on sound and carious root surfaces. The pH response to sucrose was the same regardless of the presence or absence of mutans streptococci. Our results thus do not readily support the traditional concept of caries formation.
Tongue Volume in Human Female Adults with Mandibular Prognathism
Authors: Yoo E. , Murakami S. , Takada K. , Fuchihatal H. , Sakuda M.
Published: January 2009

It has often been hypothesized that a large tongue leads to an enlargement of the mandible and therefore contributes to the development of mandibular prognathism. We examined (1) whether the tongue volume in human subjects with mandibular prognathism was larger than that in subjects with good occlusion and (2) whether the tongue volume and the pharyngeal capacity correlated with the morphological characteristics of dento-skeletal structures. Magnetic resonance images of the tongue and its surrounding structures were recorded for female adult volunteers with good occlusion (control group, n = 10) and patients with mandibular prognathism (test group, n = 16). Lateral cephalograms were obtained for the patients. No significant differences were determined for the tongue volume or the pharyngeal capacity between the two groups. The tongue volume did not correlate with the pharyngeal capacity (r = 0.280, p = 0.166). The tongue volume correlated with the facial angle (r = 0.548, p = 0.028), the Y-axis (r = 0.539, p = 0.031), and the angle nasion-A point-pogonion (r = 0.540, p = 0.031). These results suggest that the tongue volume is accounted for by the combined horizontal and vertical location of the chin and symphysis, but do not support the conventional clinical surmise that large tongue volume is inherent in patients with mandibular prognathism.
An Ultrastructural Study of the Relationship between Sensory Trigeminal Nerves and Odontoblasts in Rat Dentin/Pulp as Demonstrated by the Anterograde Transport of Wheat Germ Agglutinin-Horseradish Peroxidase (WGA-HRP)
Authors: Ibuki T. , Kido M.A. , Kiyoshima T. , Terada Y. , Tanaka T.
Published: January 2009

Because the ultrastructure of the trigeminal sensory nerves in dentin, especially in relation to odontoblasts, remains to be clarified, we investigated the relationship between the trigeminal sensory nerves and the odontoblast processes using the anterograde axonal transport technique by injecting wheat germ agglutinin-horseradish peroxidase (WGA-HRP) into the rat trigeminal ganglion. Light microscopically, the nerves labeled with WGA-HRP were mainly concentrated at the pulpal horn, forming a nerve plexus at the subodontoblastic region and penetrating the predentin/dentin about 50 to 70 μm. Ultrastructurally, HRP reaction products were observed intraaxonally in the myelinated (Aδ) and unmyelinated (C) axons in the subodontoblastic region. Most nerves lost the Schwann sheath and were naked in the predentin/dentin. The labeled varicosities were close to the odontoblast processes in the dentinal tubules. No synaptic structures could be detected between the varicosities and the odontoblasts, but a gap about 20 nm wide was found between them. One type of varicosity was a rich mitochondria-containing varicosity, while the other was a rich vesicle-containing (large dense core vesicles and small clear vesicles) one. The reaction products were also found in the extracellular spaces surrounding the axons. Sometimes the reaction products were seen in the coated pits or the endocytotic vesicles of the odontoblast processes. The present study demonstrated that nerve endings (varicosities) derived from the trigeminal ganglion were present in the dentinal tubules, and that WGA-HRP extracellularly extruded from the sensory nerves in the odontoblastic layer or predentin/dentin. These findings thus suggest that sensory nerves may have some ( e.g., trophic) effect on either odontoblasts or the environment around the sensory nerves in the dentin/pulp.
Reactivity of Candida albicans Germ Tubes with Salivary Secretory IgA
Authors: Ponton J. , Bikandi J. , Moragues M.D. , Arilla M.C. , Elosegui R. , Quindós G. , Fisicaro P. , Conti S. , Polonelli L.
Published: January 2009

Salivary secretory IgA (sIgA) has been shown to react with a group of heat shock mannoproteins preferentially expressed on yeast cells grown at 37°C. Since at this temperature C. albicans can induce germ tubes, we explored the role of germ tube induction on human salivary sIgA reactivity in both germinative and agerminative C. albicans strains, in an attempt to investigate whether the germ tube expressed the heat shock mannoproteins reactive with sIgA. The reactivity with sIgA of the agerminative strain, grown at 25 and 37°C for different times, was measured spectrofluorometrically and was fairly constant with time. Yeast cells grown at 37°C tended to be more reactive than those grown at 25°C. In contrast, when compared with the yeast cells of the germinative strain grown at 25°C, there was a statistically significant decrease in reactivity with sIgA during germ tube formation. Serum IgA and IgG did not show statistically significant changes in reactivity with C. albicans during germination, suggesting differences in reactivity with C. albicans cell wall antigens between mucosal and systemic humoral responses. Cell wall mannoproteins of molecular masses > 60 kDa were characterized by Western blotting as responsible for the decrease in sIgA reactivity observed in the germ tube, and the fall in sIgA reactivity was related to the release of cell wall mannoproteins into the culture medium. The release of these mannoproteins may be a mechanism whereby C. albicans avoids the action of sIgA, and it may play an important role in the host-parasite relationship in oral candidiasis.
Exposure of Periodontal Ligament Cells to Methyl Mercaptan Reduces Intracellular pH and Inhibits Cell Migration
Authors: Lancero H. , Niu J. , Johnson P.W.
Published: January 2009

Volatile sulfur compounds such as hydrogen sulfide and methyl mercaptan have been associated with adult periodontitis as well as with healing surgical wounds. To examine the effects of these compounds on the periodontium, we assayed periodontal ligament (PDL) cells for changes in intracellular pH, total protein, and cell migration following chronic exposure to CH3SH. Intracellular pH was quantitated by fluorescence measurements of cells loaded with BCECF, a pH-sensitive dye. Data show that 48-hour exposure to mercaptan lowered resting intracellular pH but did not consistently alter activity of the Na/H exchanger. This effect was seen in PDL cells from three different patients. Lowered pH was accompanied by decreases in both total protein and mature α1 and α2 chains of type I collagen. Since reductions in intracellular pH and total protein have been associated with inhibition of cell motility, migration was quantitated by sequential computer imaging, which measured the increase in size of plated cell circles at different times of migration. Incubation of PDL cells in pH 7.4 and 6.6 buffers reversibly altered intracellular pH. Migration was reversibly inhibited in pH 6.8 buffer. Exposure to CH3SH reduced intracellular pH in pH 7.4 buffer and in three independent assays inhibited enlargement of cell circles in pH 7.4 medium. These effects were therefore not related to alterations of extracellular pH, which remained at 7.4. The results support the hypothesis that gases such as methyl mercaptan may play a role in both surgical wound healing and periodontal disease by adversely affecting cell function and suggest that alterations in intracellular pH may be part of the mechanism for these changes.
The High-copper Dental Amalgam Alloys
Authors: Mahler D.B.
Published: January 2009

For many years, the amalgamation of silver with mercury to produce a condensable mixture which could be used to restore carious defects in teeth followed a tortuous path of negative results. However, at the turn of the century, amalgam alloys having acceptable characteristics for successful clinical use emerged. From that point on, silver amalgam was widely accepted as the material of choice for low-cost, easily placed, and durable restorations. About 60 years later, a major discovery occurred that resulted in a most significant improvement in the clinical performance of this material. The key to this improvement was an increase in the Cu content of the amalgam alloy which previously had been considered to be inappropriate. This paper describes the history of this discovery, which produced what has come to be known as high-copper dental amalgam alloys.