bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The influence of gender on the masseter electromyographic jaw‐jerk reflex in young human subjects
Authors: KOSSIONI A.E. , KARKAZIS H.C.
Published: June 2007

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of gender on the masseteric jaw‐jerk reflex, evoked in a sample of nine male and nine female young subjects. Electromyographic jaw‐jerk recordings elicited by chin‐taps in the relaxed masseter muscle of the preferred chewing side, were obtained using a computerized recording and analysis system. In both groups, a jaw‐jerk reflex was recorded in 95.56% out of the total number of chin‐taps. The mean latency was significantly shorter in the females (5.75 ms) than in the males (6.14ms, P= 0.0045), while the amplitude of the reflex was significantly higher in the females (P= 0.0005). No significant differences were found in the mean duration between males (6.86ms) and females (6.73ms).

It was concluded that sex variation should be taken into consideration in the interpretation of the jaw‐jerk reflex.
Cytotoxicity of components of resins and other dental restorative materials
Authors: WATAHA J.C. , HANKS C.T. , STRAWN S.E. , FAT J.C.
Published: June 2007

Cytotoxicity testing of dental restorative materials must be viewed as an assessment of hazards, that is the potential of the material to cause pulpal problems. In this context, composites, glass ionomers, amalgams, zinc‐based cements and peroxide bleaching agents are all possible hazards to the pulp. The risks that these materials will cause pulpal toxicity in vivo can be partly estimated by assessing the cytotoxicity of the substances which are released from these materials in vitro and comparing these cytotoxic concentrations with those concentrations that are present in vivo. The resin components of composites, metal ions and hydrogen peroxide, all of which are released from dental restorative materials, have been shown to be cytotoxic in vitro in sufficient concentrations. The potencies of these substances are quite diverse. However, the Cytotoxicity of these substances in usage tests, and therefore the risks of pulpal toxicity, depends on their ability to diffuse through the dentine and accumulate in the pulp.
Permeability of biological and synthetic molecules through dentine
Authors: HANKS C.T. , WATAHA J.C. , PARSELL R.R. , STRAWN S.E. , FAT J.C.
Published: June 2007

The diffusion through dentine by a number of biological and synthetic molecules, including resins and dyes, is reported. In vitro measurements were derived by experiments with a modified ‘split‐chamber device’. Diffusion was found to be indirectly proportional to dentine thickness for all molecules. Permeability of water‐soluble molecules and ethanol‐soluble molecules was proportional to the molecular weights, except for fluorescein, hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and urethane dimethacrylate. The resin components tested are not soluble enough in an aqueous medium to diffuse through 0.5 mm dentine at sufficient concentrations to cause cytotoxicity to pulpal cells.
Reflections on the Michigan occlusal splint
Authors: RAMFJORD S.P. , ASH MAJOR M.
Published: June 2007

Specific features related to the development, design and use of the Michigan splint have been described. Additional benefits from the Michigan splint beyond what can be expected from conventional stabilization splints and bite planes have been suggested. Important aspects of corrections and maintenance care of the Michigan splint have been stressed.
Multidimensional evaluation of craniomandibular dysfunction. II: Pain assessment
Authors: DE LEEUW J.R.J. , ROS W.J.G. , STEENKS M.H. , LOBBEZOO‐SCHOLTE A.M. , BOSMAN F. , WINNUBST J.A.M.
Published: June 2007

To standardize clinical history taking, a comprehensive anamnestic questionnaire was developed (Screen). Screen includes questions about: (i) pain, (ii) other symptoms of craniomandibular dysfuntion (CMD), (iii) correlates of CMD, (iv) pychosocial factors, and (v) general health. The current study focuses on variables in Screen concerning pain reported somewhere in the head, neck and/or shoulders. This study was performed to assess whether subgroups of patients with signs and symptoms of CMD and a control group of dental patients with and without signs and symptoms of CMD can be characterized by differences in areas reported to be painful, in quantitative and qualitative characteristics of pain, and in factors exacerbating pain. Results indicate that several characteristics of pain as measured in Screen can be used to discriminate between: (i) subgroups of subjects with signs and/or symptoms of CMD and controls without signs or symptoms of CMD, (ii) subgroups of clinical cases and controls with signs or symptoms of CMD, and (iii) patients with CMD with mainly a myogenous component and patients with CMD with mainly an arthrogenous component. The results of logistic regression analysis indicate that four adverbs describing pain correctly classified 75% of patients with CMD‐myo and patients with CMD‐arthro. Differences between patients and controls are interpreted with regard to the correct classification of patients with CMD with a mainly myogenous component and patients with CMD with a mainly arthrogenous component and the subjective treatment need for CMD. Implications for further research are discussed.
Thermocycling — the effects upon the compressive strength and abrasion resistance of three composite resins
Authors: CHADWICK R.G.
Published: June 2007

The purpose of this investigation was to examine the effects of thermocycling upon the compressive strength and abrasive wear resistance of three commercial composites Fulfil®, P‐50® and Herculite‐XR®. Specimens of each material were divided into five treatment groups comprising a control, and four different cycling and storage regimes. Tests for compressive strength and wear resistance were carried out. Prior to testing all specimens were stored in distilled water for 1 week. Three groups were stored at a temperature of 37°C and the remaining two at 60°C. Thereafter all groups that were thermocycled were subjected to 750 cycles of a thermocycling regime consisting of the cycle ACAB where A and B represent the fixed temperatures of 37°C and 5°C, and C, depending upon the treatment group, either 50°C or 60°C.

One‐way analyses of variance upon the compressive strength and wear factor data following the treatments highlighted significant differences in the mean compressive strength for all materials (Fulfil (P < 0.05), P‐50 and Herculite‐XR (P < 0.01)) and in the wear factor values for only Fulfil and P‐50 (P < 0.001). Surprisingly, thermocycling P‐50 with an upper temperature limit of 50°C had catastrophic consequences upon the measured properties.

It is concluded that some of the observed behaviour may have potentially detrimental consequences upon the long‐term clinical durability of the materials tested.
Assessment of chewing efficiency: a comparison of particle size distribution determined using optical scanning and sieving of almonds
Authors: MOWLANA F. , HEATH M.R. , VAN DER BILT A. , VAN DER GLAS H.W.
Published: June 2007

Particle sizes obtained with progressive chewing cycles were quantified by use of an optical scanning device and compared with the sieving method. The aim of this study was to validate the optical method by comparison with sieving using a natural test food, almond. Masticatory efficiency was assessed in six dentate subjects. The almonds were chewed for 1, 4, 8, 16 and 32 chewing strokes. Each experiment was replicated. The chewed material was sieved through a 1 mm aperture sieve on a Büchner funnel and dried after washing with water and 100% alcohol. The dried particles were weighed and scanned by an optical scanning device for number and size. The same samples were sieved and weighed with a conventional sieve method. The results of both methods were described by particle size distributions based on the volume of particles. The results derived from the optical scanning and sieving showed similarity. It can be concluded that the optical method is simple to use, faster than sieving and needs little skill in the use of equipment. The comparison of the results validates both methods.
Mandibular advancement with dental appliances in obstructive sleep apnoea
Authors: SJÖHOLM T.T. , POLO O.J. , RAUHALA E.R. , VUORILUOTO J. , HELENIUS H.Y.M.
Published: June 2007

The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of a modified Herbst appliance (mHA) and a muscle relaxation appliance (MR) on nocturnal breathing and body movement activity in patients with obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome (OSAS). To increase the airway space posterior to the tongue base without severely affecting the craniomandibular joint, the mHA was adjusted to anchor the mandible at 50% of maximum protrusion. MR producing an occlusal coverage but no protrusion served as a control appliance. All‐night static charge‐sensitive bed (SCSB) and finger oximeter recordings were done to six male patients in three conditions: first without dental device and then with mHA and with MR, in a random order, after a 2 month period of habituation. The oxyhaemoglobin desaturation events were 44.7 h−l of recording observed during the control night, 29.6h−1 with mHA (P= 0.087). The frequency of body movements decreased from 34.9 to 20.4h−1 (P= 0.0079), respectively. MR had no significant effects either on the frequency of the desaturation events or the frequency of body movements, but the increased respiratory resistance breathing, indicating presence of partial upper airway obstruction, was reduced from 14.3 to 6.9% of the time in bed (P= 0.022).

We conclude that 50% protrusion chosen for these experiments, produced with a mHA, brought about some alleviation of upper airway obstruction in our preselected patients, but did not lead to sufficient control of apnoea. The reduction of partial upper airway obstruction induced with a MR warrants further studies in a larger patient population.
Variations in oral temperature
Authors: VOLCHANSKY A. , CLEATON‐JONES P.
Published: June 2007

This study investigated the temperature of healthy oral mucosa and underlying bone. Using a fine thermocouple and digital thermometer, four groups of temperatures were measured: (i) adjacent to uncrupted third molars before and after surgical removal (n= 51); (ii) at the same site in patients not undergoing surgery (n= 30); and (iii) at the buccal incisor mucosa (n= 30). In each group sublingual temperatures were measured in order to calculate the temperature differential between measurement site and sublingual temperature to compensate for variations between sites and individuals. In the final group (iv) (n= 10) sublingual temperature was recorded in a closed mouth.

Mean alveolar bone temperature was 5°C cooler than overlying mucosa, and mean post‐operative mucosal temperature was some 2.5°C cooler than before operation (t= 2.32, P < 0.001). Sublingual temperature, in a closed mouth, remained relatively constant. In an open mouth, in both anterior and posterior regions, there were statistically significant decreases in sublingual temperature and in mucosal temperature differentials. Significant differences were also found between temperature differentials calculated using sublingual temperature measured at baseline and after 10 min. This indicates that sublingual temperature should be measured just prior to measuring a mucosal site.
Effect of unilateral bite splint on mastication in the miniature pig
Authors: ZHANG G. , HUANG X. , HERRING S.W.
Published: June 2007

Unilateral premature occlusal contacts are known to alter masticatory activity levels during clenching, but whether natural chewing is similarly affected is not known. The purpose of this study was to analyse the effects of a unilateral bite splint on mastication. Eleven experiments were carried out using three miniature pigs. Electromyography of the masticatory muscles and movements of the jaw were recorded during natural chewing before and after inserting a bite splint on the second and third deciduous premolars. In contrast to human clenching, the integrated activities of the jaw‐closing muscles increased, especially on the contralateral side. The increases were mainly due to the prolongation of the burst durations. Jaw opening activity was increased as well. The frequency of mastication fell slightly and the animal preferred to chew food on the bite splint side. These results demonstrate the importance within the particular experimental conditions of the occlusal condition in regulating chewing behaviour.
The relation of age and handedness to condylar asymmetry in a group of edentulous patients with a temporomandibular disorder of arthrogenous origin
Authors: MILLER V.J. , MYERS S.L. , ZELTSER C. , YOELI Z.
Published: June 2007

SUMMARY
A group of edentulous patients with a temporomandibular disorder of arthrogenous origin was found to have a mean asymmetry index of 7.38%. This was lower than a group with a disorder of myogenous origin, but higher than a control group of non‐patients. A graph of age vs. asymmetry index showed no correlation, in keeping with similar results found in a group of patients with a disorder of myogenous origin.
Spatial and morphologic aspects of temporomandibular joints with sounds
Authors: WABEKE K.B. , SPRUIJT R.J. , HABETS L.L.M.H.
Published: June 2007

summary
Various spatial and morphological aspects of the temporomandibular joint may be involved in the development of TMJ sounds. The present study examines their contribution to the prediction of sounds. A non‐patient sample was studied using sensitive sounds measurement and panoramic radiography. It was found that temporomandibular joint sounds are common in asymptomatic subjects showing substantial variation in several spatial and morphological parameters. An autonomous contribution of spatial relationships, asymmetries or morphology of bony structures to the prediction of joint sounds could not be detected. When unilateral sounds were present, they were more likely to be found on the side with the less steep condylar movement path. Joint imaging is not indicated in the detection of relationships between bony structures and their eventual asymmetries and joint sounds.
Electromyographic analysis of the masticatory muscles of patients after complete rehabilitation of occlusion with protection by non‐working side contacts
Authors: SANTANA U. , MORA Ma.J.
Published: June 2007

summary
Surface electromography was used to study the function of the anterior temporal, surface masseter, deep masseter and anterior digastric muscles of 14 patients after complete rehabilitation of occlusion with fixed prostheses and/or removable partial prostheses. All patients had a balanced occlusion with protection by non‐working side contacts during lateral excursion. Mean resting myoelectric activity was 2.5‐3.8 μV, showing no hypertonia or muscular spasm. When patients clenched their teeth (i.e. exerted maximum voluntary occlusal force in centric occlusion), the anterior temporal muscles were the most active, followed by the surface masseters; the digastrics were significantly less active. During lateral displacements, the muscles exhibiting significantly higher potentials than the other muscles monitored were the working side anterior temporal muscle and the contralateral surface masseter. During mastication, the muscle that was most active in relation to its contralateral homologue was the working side surface masseter, the difference between the two being statistically significant.
Studies on adaptation to complete dentures. Part II: Oral stereognosis and tactile sensibility
Authors: MÜLLER F. , LINK I. , FUHR K. , UTZ K.‐H.
Published: June 2007

summary
High oral perception is thought to contribute to poor adaptation to new dentures. The aim of this study was to evaluate the oral stereognosis and tactile sensibility in edentate subjects and relate these to patient age and capability of adaptation to new prostheses. A total of 67 patients were provided with new complete dentures 2‐3 weeks before the experiment. In 54 subjects, the oral stereognosis was evaluated by 12 different test‐pieces, which were placed unseen on the tongue and had to be recognized. In 38 patients, the oral tactile sensibility was determined in the premolar area using copper foils. The capability of adaptation was evaluated by a questionnaire.

Denture retention was assessed by clinical examination. The number of correctly identified test‐pieces and the average identification time were related to the age, but no relation was found to patients’capability of adaptation. The tactile sensibility was found to be impaired with age and diminished capability of adaptation. Both adaptation and oral tactile sensibility were significantly lower in subjects with poor lower‐denture retention. In conclusion, the results cannot support a relationship between high oral stereognosis and adaptation problems. However, good denture retention facilitates the adaptation process.
Influence of stress and occlusal interference on the EMG activity of some masticatory muscles during a single mastication cycle
Authors: RICHARDIN P. , WESTPHAL A. , DIVRY M. , DIDIER G.
Published: June 2007

summary
The aim of the study was to investigate the influence of stress on the open‐close activity in mastication, using an animal model. For this, we have compared the single‐motor activites of three muscles: anterior digastric (AD), anterior temporalis (AT) and the superficial masseter (MS) in different groups of rats classed according to emotional state and dental occlusion. The EMG graphs have been analysed by the method proposed by the Weijs & Dantuma (1975). The results show that a dominant action of the stress on the AD and a combined action of the stress and the occlusal state on AT and MS occur during a single mastication cycle. A supression of the reflex myotatic inhibition for AT and MS occured in the presence of an occlusal interference.
Experimental occlusal interferences. Part III. Mandibular rotations induced by a rigid interference
Authors: RASSOULI N.M. , CHRISTENSEN L.V.
Published: June 2007

summary
A rigid intercuspal interference (minimum mean height of 0.24 mm) was placed on either the right or left mandibular second premolar and first molar of 12 subjects. During brisk and forceful biting on the interference, rotational electrognathography measured maximum torque of the right and left mandibular condyles in the frontal and horizontal planes of orientation. All subjects showed frontal plane upward rotation (mean of 0.7 degrees) of the mandibular condyle contralateral to the interference. In 33% of the subjects there was no horizontal plane rotation. In 58% of the subjects there was horizontal plane backward rotation (mean of 0.5 degrees) of the mandibular condyle ipsilateral to the interference, and in one subject (8%) there was backward horizontal plane rotation (0.1 degree) of the mandibular condyle contralateral to the interference. It was inferred that the masseter muscle, ipsilateral to the interference, generated negative work in order to decelerate frontal plane‘unseating’of the mandibular condyle ipsilateral to the interference. It was inferred that the masseter muscle, contralateral to the interference, produced positive work in order to accelerate frontal plane 'seating’of the mandibular condyle contralateral to the interference. Finally, it was speculated that the impact forces of frontal plane 'seating’of the mandibular condyle, contralateral to the interference, might lead to‘vacuum sticking’of the temporomandibular joint disc because of the formation of negative hydrostatic pressures.
Centre and magnitude of vertical forces in complete denture wearers
Authors: OGATA K. , SATOH M.
Published: June 2007

summary
The aim of this study was to examine the centre and magnitude of a vertical component of occlusal forces in complete denture wearers during several activities using a newly developed method. A lower complete denture was divided into upper and lower parts parallel to the occlusal plane. They were connected by four force transducers which were embedded in the first premolar and the second molar portions on both sides of the denture base. Forces were recorded during tapping, chewing peanuts and raisins, and clenching. The centre and the magnitude of the forces were calculated from forces recorded by the four transducers. The maximum error of the centre was 1 mm, and the maximum error of the magnitude was 4%. The centre was observed between a first molar and the middle of the edentulous dental arch. Maximal mean value of the forces during chewing was 65‐110 N.
Ultrasonography of masseter muscle size in normal young adults
Authors: CLOSE P.J. , STOKES M.J. , L'ESTRANGE P.R. , ROWELL J.
Published: June 2007

summary
the present study was planned to determine the relationship between linear dimensions of human masseter muscle cross‐section and cross‐sectional area (CSA), and to assess symmetry between the two sides in normal young adults. Cross‐sectional images of the masseter muscle were measured bilaterally by real‐time ultrasound imaging in 39 healthy dentate subjects, 19 males and 20 females, aged 21‐47. From stored images, CSA and two linear measurements of muscle cross‐section were obtained (the shortest and the longest distance through the muscle group). Correlation and regression analyses were performed to examine the relationship between CSA and the linear dimensions (both individually and with the linear dimensions multiplied). Symmetry of CSA between the two sides of the face was examined using the paired t‐test. The significance of correlation coefficients (r) and the difference between the slopes of the regression lines were also examined. Masseter CSA was larger in males than in females. All correlation values between CSA and linear measurements were significant but muscle CSA was most accurately predicted when the linear measurements were multiplied (r= 0.97; P < lt; 0.001). Although the correlation in this regard was high, the linear dimensions consistently overestimated the actual CSA by approximately 25%. Males showed more symmetry of CSA than females. The range of values for symmetry of masseter CSA was too large to assess abnormal asymmetry in patients with unilateral symptoms.
Delayed implants in the anterior maxilla with the IMZ®‐ implant system
Authors: DE WIJS F.L.J.A. , CUNE M.S. , DE PUTTER C.
Published: June 2007

SUMMARY
One hundred and seventy‐three IMZ two‐stage implants have been clinically and radiologically evaluated for a 5 year period. The implants were placed in the anterior region of the maxillae of 81 patients to replace lost incisors, cuspids and bicuspids. The implants were placed 3 months or later after loss of natural anterior teeth when the resorption was already in an advanced stage. The implants used in this study consisted of titanium coated with hydroxylapatite. The prosthetic restorations placed on the implants consisted of fixed or removable partial dentures and single crowns. The cumulative percentage for implant survival after 3 years, with a mean follow‐up of 33.5 (s.d. 17.8) months was 96.1%. Although the prosthetic restorations aesthetically often were a compromise they did prove highly satisfactory to both patients and dentists.
An in vitro investigation into the wear effects of selected restorative materials on dentine
Authors: JAGGER D.C. , HARRISON A.
Published: June 2007

SUMMARY
Wear testing of five restorative materials was carried out against plates of human dentine using a wear machine specifically designed to simulate the masticatory cycle. The results showed that dentine is substantially less wear resistant than enamel when compared to previous findings. Amalgam produced no measurable wear of dentine, conventional composite produced extreme destruction and porcelain produced the greatest amount of wear. Great care should be taken with the choice of restorative material when opposing dentine.
EMG differences between weak and strong myogenous CMD patients and healthy controls
Authors: VISSER A. , KROON G.W. , NAEIJE M. , HANSSON T.L.
Published: June 2007

SUMMARY
Electromyographic and clinical characteristics of 42 myogenous craniomandibular disorder (CMD) patients were related to 40 healthy control subjects. Surface EMG recordings were obtained from the masseter and the temporal muscles. The clinical examination included active maximum mouth opening, endfeel distance, active laterotrusion and lateral endfeel distance, dental abrasion, the presence of a lateral slide (RCP‐ICP) and the amount of static pain. Orthopantomographic X‐rays were available from 32 CMD patients for measuring the condylar and ramus asymmetry. Compared to the control group lower masseter and temporal EMG amplitudes were found for myogenous CMD patients (P < 0.001). When the activity of the temporal muscle was compared with the activity of the masseter muscle, the CMD patients showed proportionally higher temporal muscle activities than the controls (P < 0.05, 50% clenching level). CMD patients also showed smaller mandibular excursions, larger endfeel distances and more dental abrasion than controls. The temporal muscle asymmetries showed significant negative correlations with the ramus asymmetries. The lower and upper quartile of the distribution of the mean masseter EMG amplitudes were used to distinguish weak and strong muscles in patients and controls. Weak patients showed proportionally high temporal muscle activities, larger masseter and temporal muscle asymmetries, and larger endfeel distances compared to strong CMD patients. These differences were not found between weak and strong controls. In conclusion, it can be said that the electromyographic and clinical findings of the myogenous CMD patients suggest a functional difference between weak and strong patients and indicate the need for more individually designed treatment modalities for functional muscle and joint CMD problems.
Electromyographic analysis of the sternohyoid muscle and anterior belly of the digastric muscle in jaw movements
Authors: BÉRZIN F.
Published: June 2007

SUMMARY
The sternohyid muscle and the anterior belly of the left digastric muscle were studied electro‐myographically in 20 young adult volunteer individuals. A surface monopolar electrode and a needle monopolar electrode, inserted into the muscle mass 1.0 cm apart were employed. The most significant action of the two muscles was found in the opening of the jaw, during which the sternohyoid muscle presented an isotonic contraction, allowing for displacements of the hyoid bone. They also acted on those movements that included one of the jaw depression components, such as protrusion, lateral movements to either side, and retrusion. They were inactive when the jaw was in the resting position. Both muscles operated simultaneously most of the time, but a synchronization of their actions could not be demostrated.
Ceramic inlay systems: some clinical aspects
Authors: MILLEDING P. , ÖRTENGREN U. , KARLSSON S.
Published: June 2007

summary
Due to their inertness and unsurpassed aesthetic properties, ceramic materials are increasingly used as inlay materials. Based on a questionnaire, the frequency and character of complications related to ceramic inlay therapy were assessed and some important pitfalls and clinical relevant factors discussed. A majority of the dentists performed between 1 and 10 ceramic inlays per month using several different ceramic materials. As many as 85% of the dentists had observed complications in connection with ceramic inlays. Most frequency reported was hypersensitivity of a transient nature (15%). The material revealed an overall inlay fracture frequency of 5%, but the individual variations were high. Tooth fracture, loss of retention and other complications such as secondary caries, endodontic envolvement, colour mismatch and a surface and edge deterioration occurred with a varying but lower frequency. Failure analysis revealed a large number of causative factors among which cavity and inlay design, bonding procedures, selection of luting material and proper case selection were regarded as the most important. Due consideration to the strength of remaining tooth substance was found to be important in reducing the problem of hypersensitivity and the risk of tooth and inlay fracture.
Temporomandibular disorders in the active phase of orthodontic treatment
Authors: EGERMARK I. , RÖNNERMAN A.
Published: June 2007

summary
Subjective symptoms and clinical signs of temporomandibular disorders (TMD) as well as presence of headache, bruxism and occlusal interferences were examined in 50 patients (mean age 12.9 years) before, during and immediately after orthodontic treatment. The prevalences of signs and symptoms of TMD were high before the treatment in comparison with subjects in an epidemiological study. Except for TMJ sounds, signs and symptoms of TMD as well as presence of headache decreased during the treatment. The major factor for decrease of the dysfunction index during the treatment compared with before the treatment, was tenderness to palpation of the masticatory muscles. Although there was a high prevalence of occlusal interferences during treatment, they seemed to have little importance for development of TMD. One explanation may be that the orthodontically moved teeth are sensitive to contact resulting in a decrease of oral parafunctions. Such a decrease was also reported by the patients.
Treatment of exposed implant threads using a synthetic bone graft
Authors: HÜRZELER M.B. , LEUPOLZ M. , EINSELE F. , SCHMITZ H.J. , STRUB J.R.
Published: June 2007

summary
The aim of this study was to evaluate clinically and histologically the use of a synthetic bone graft (Ionogram®) alone and in combination with guided bone regeneration (GBR) to facilitate bone regeneration and augmentation around exposed implant threads. Five male Beagle dogs were used in this investigation. Prior to the study all 3rd and 4th premolars were extracted. After 3 months, a flap was elevated and two Brånemark implants were inserted in each quadrant in such a way that two‐three threads remained exposed over the alveolar bone. On the control sites the synthetic bone graft was then placed around the exposed threads and the flaps were repositioned and sutured. On the test sites, the same procedure was performed, but an expanded polytetrafluoroethylene barrier was placed to cover the bone graft and implants. Three months after implant placement, the barriers on the test sites were removed, healing abutments were inserted on all implants, and a thrice weekly plaque control regime was initiated. The following clinical parameters were measured at 1, 2 and 3 months: Plaque Index, Gingival Index, Probing Depth and Clinical Attachment Level. Three months after abutment connection the animals were killed and specimens were obtained for histological evaluation. Clinical parameters revealed a significant improvement on the experimental sites compared to control sites during the 3 month loading phase. Histological analyses, however, could not determine a difference in the nature of the implant/ tissue interphase between experimental and control sites. In both groups graft particles were surrounded by dense fibrous connective tissue with limited evidence of new bone formation or osseointegration only in areas close to the alveolar crest.
Effects of electrode movements on masseteric electromyograms of teeth clenching in humans
Authors: CHRISTENSEN L.V.
Published: June 2007

Summary
In six healthy subjects, the integrated electromyographic (IEMG) activity of the right masseter muscle was recorded during 10s of maximum voluntary teeth clenching, without and with manual movements (at a rate of 1.6 Hz, with a force of approximately 3 N) of the bipolar surface electrodes affixed to the cheek. All IEMG recordings were undertaken at discrimination thresholds of 1 μV and 30μV. Electrode movements were the likely source of some distortion (artefact) of the IEMG readings. An increase in the discrimination threshold (30 μV vs. 1 μV) seemed to decrease the artefactual effects of electrode movements, possibly because the movements exerted their major distorting effects on the smaller (low voltages) masseteric motor units.
Sensitization in childhood atopic disease identified by Phadebas RAST, serum IgE and Phadiatop
Authors: Sigurs N. , Hildebrand H. , Hultquist C. , Litwin E. , Lothe L. , Malmqvist L. Å. , Sandahl G. , Svenonius E. , Lanner Å.
Published: June 2007

A search for IgE antibodies was performed in 224 children, aged 0–15 yr, with symptoms compatible with IgE‐mediated allergy, employing total IgE. RAST with up to 17 allergens and the Phadiatop® test. Fiftysix of 113 children (50%), aged 0–3 yr, and 80 of 111 children (72%) aged 4–15 yr had specific IgE antibodies. The most common allergens during the first 4 yr were egg white, a mixture of nuts (hazel nut, peanut, almond, coconut and Brazil nut) and milk. During the 2nd yr of life inhalant allergens became more important. From the 3rd yr they became more common than food allergens as sensitizers. Among the children aged 4–15 yr timothy, cat and nut mix were the most common allergens. Among the children with specific IgE antibodies Phadiatop was positive in 58% of the children younger than 4 yr, and in 91% of the children over that age. Fifty‐three of the children with IgE antibodies against nut mix were further investigated for antibodies against hazel nut, peanut and almond, and 48 (91%) were positive against at least one of them. The parents of 41 of these patients answered a questionnaire about adverse symptoms against nuts, and 26 (63%) were aware of clinical sensitivity. In conclusion, IgE antibodies against food allergens dominated in children under 2 yr, and thereafter antibodies against inhalants became more important. An unexpectedly high prevalence of IgE antibodies against nut mixture was found. Phadiatop was a good screening method for identification of children 4 yr or older with IgE antibodies against inhalants.
Concentrations of LTB4, LTC4, LTD4 and LTE4 in bronchiolitis due to respiratory syncytial virus
Authors: Garofalo R. , Welliver R. C. , Ogra P. L. , Welliver Dr. Robert
Published: June 2007

Fifty‐five infants with bronchiolitis due to respiratory syncytial virus were evaluated for the presence of leukotriene B4, C4, D4 and E4 in nasopharyngeal secretions. An attempt was made to correlate concentrations of leukotrienes to arterial oxygen tension. Forty participants received conventional therapy consisting primarily of aerosolized albuterol and occasional aminophylline therapy. The other 15 individuals received ribavirin therapy in addition to conventional therapy, and leukotriene concentrations were compared among individuals in these groups. RSV infection was documented by standard methods, and leukotrienes were measured by reverse‐phase high pressure liquid chromatography. The leukotriene detected most commonly was LTC4 (up to 83% of subjects); LTD4 and LTB4 were present in approximately 30% of individuals. The mean partial pressure of oxygen was found to be lower in those individuals with detectable LTB4 than in those without detectable LTB4 (p < 0.025), and an overall inverse correlation of LTB4 concentrations with initial pO2 values was observed (r = 0.318, p < 0.05). The presence and quantity of other leukotrienes did not correlate with the severity of illness. During the first week of illness, the concentration of leukotrienes declined sharply in ribavirin recipients. Individuals receiving conventional therapy during the same time interval exhibited stable or increasing leukotriene concentrations. These observations suggest that LTB4 may be important in the pathogenesis of bronchiolitis, and that ribavirin therapy may inhibit leukotriene release in the respiratory tract.
Altered T‐cell immunity in patients with adverse reactions to phenobarbital
Authors: Knutsen A. P. , Tsai C. C. , Kotagal S.
Published: June 2007

Twenty‐five patients with hypersensitivity reactions to phenobarbital and/or phenytoin are described. Clinical manifestations uniformly consisted of fever and a pruritic skin rash, and were often accompanied by conjunctivitis and lymphadenopathy. Less frequent complications included exfoliative dermatitis and protein‐losing enteropathy. Histologic examination of skin in 4 patients and jejunal biopsies in 2 patients demonstrated a prominent inflammatory response consisting predominantly of mononuclear cells. Immunoperoxidase studies identified these cells as mainly activated T cells in the skin and activated T‐suppressor/cytotoxic cells in the gastrointestinal tract. In vitro lymphoproliferative responses by patients’ peripheral blood mononuclear cells demonstrated increased blastogenesis to phenobarbital stimulation, 1237 versus 74 cpm (p<0.01), and in some patients to phenytoin, 848 versus 87 cpm (p<0.01), suggesting some cross‐reactivity with phenytoin. Five patients subsequently treated with phenytoin also developed an allergic reaction to this medication. The clinical findings and laboratory studies suggest that adverse drug reactions to phenobarbital and/or phenytoin are probably mediated by a T‐cell immune hypersensitivity response.
Influence of month of birth on house dust mite allergy
Authors: Kozanoglu M. N. , Güneser S.
Published: June 2007

We determined the birth month of a sample of 208 patients with bronchial asthma or rhinitis and positive skin test to house dust mite. The majority of patients were born in the summer and autumn months. The increased incidence of house dust mite allergy in patients born in the months of July to September, when house dust mites are most abundant, corresponds to a relative risk of 1.43. It is important that exposure to house dust mites in early childhood is kept to a minimum as exposure to allergens may influence the development of allergic disease in later life.
Carbohydrate, lipid and glucocorticoid metabolism in children with asthma following treatment with high‐dose steroid aerosol
Authors: Prahl P. , Andersen G. E.
Published: June 2007

In 16 asthmatic children 5–16 years old (mean 11.4 yr) treated with inhaled beclomethasone dipropionate or budesonide, serum lipids and serum lipoproteins, serum C‐peptide and serum insulin and urinary cortisol excretion were measured. The dose of inhaled corticosteroid was unchanged for 5 to 12 months prior to investigation. The doses ranged from 800 to 4000 μg (mean 1465 μg) per day. Serum lipids and serum lipoproteins were within the normal range in all patients. One patient treated with an extremely high dose of inhaled steroid showed a high level of serum C‐peptide and serum insulin and a very low level of urinary cortisol excretion. The results of the other 15 patients were within the normal range.
Chronic sclerosing cholangitis and recurrent pulmonary infections in two brothers associated with cellular immunodeficiency and increased cytokine production
Authors: Dayer E. , Roux‐Lombard P. , Huber O. , Dayer J.‐M.
Published: June 2007

Primary sclerosing cholangitis has occasionally been associated with congenital immunodeficiency. Recently, sclerosing cholangitis has been found in the course of AIDS and cryptosporidium or cytomegalovirus have been observed chronically in the biliary tract, suggesting their role in the evolution to sclerosing cholangitis. We report on 2 brothers with immunodeficiency without any evidence of AIDS, who showed sclerosing cholangitis and recurrent pulmonary infections in the course of their disease. No bacterial microorganism could be cultured from the biliary juice. The serum of both patients contained measurable levels of TNFα. Supernatants from cultured peripheral blood mononuclear cells of the two brothers contained higher amounts of tumor necrosis factor (TNFα), interleukins 1α and 1β than did supernatants from cultures of normal individuals. The role of cytokines as an aggravating factor in immunodeficiency is discussed as well as their role in the inflammatory process.
Atopic dermatitis and breast feeding of Somali children living in Somalia and in Italy
Authors: Asseyr A. F. , Botan A. A. , Ziruolo M. G. , Businco L.
Published: June 2007

The aim of this study was to investigate the feeding habits in the first year of life and prevalence of atopic dermatitis (AD) in a group of Somali children born and living in Italy and in a group of Somali children born and living in Somalia. The first group comprised 59 children (median age 15 months; range: 12–24 months) and the second group 95 children (median age 16 months; range: 12–24 months). The mothers were asked to fill in a questionnaire on the duration of breast feeding and weaning age of their children. In the Somali children born and living in Rome we observed earlier introduction of cow's milk (p < 0.001), and earlier weaning (p < 0.001). The prevalence of AD was higher in the Somali children born and living in Italy (p < 0.001).
Spontaneous release of histamine from basophils in children with atopic dermatitis
Authors: Boner A. L. , Vici E. Folchi , Carcereri L. , Sette L. , Bonizzato C.
Published: June 2007

Spontaneous histamine release from basophils was evaluated in children with atopic dermatitis and in healthy controls. Patients were divided into 2 groups, one with specific IgE antibodies for food allergens (Group 1) and one without specific reaginic antibodies (Group 2). Group 1 showed significantly higher histamine release (median 7.25%) than Group 2 (median 4.2%) and healthy controls (median 2.05%). Histamine release was also significantly greater in Group 2 patients compared with healthy controls (p < 0.005). Group 1 was studied again after an exclusion diet which resulted in an improvement of symptoms and a significant reduction (p < 0.001) of histamine release. Children with atopic dermatitis both with and without IgE antibodies for food allergens present a degree of “basophil hyperreactivity” which decreases after an appropriate exclusion diet in children with associated food allergy.
Postnatal development of respiratory mucosal immune function in the rat: regulation of IgE responses to inhaled allergen
Authors: Nelson D. , McMenamin C. , Wilkes L. , Holt P. G.
Published: June 2007

Repeated exposure of immunocompetent adult rats to aerosolised allergen stimulates persistent IgG responses to the allergen, the magnitude of which varies as a function of genetic background. In contrast, exposed adult animals develop immunological tolerance in the IgE isotype, and are unable to produce allergen‐specific IgE antibody in response to subsequent parenteral immunization. Infant rats appear anergic to challenge with inhaled allergen either in relation to IgG synthesis or expression of tolerance in the IgE antibody class, and both these functions were subsequently acquired during the first week after weaning. Systemic immune responses were essentially normal in the infant animals, suggesting that the failure to ‘recognise’ inhaled antigen in the early postnatal period was due to a selective maturational defect in local respiratory mucosal immune function.
Elevated neonatal salivary anti‐casein immunoglobulin A antibodies as an indicator of atopic risk
Authors: Renz H. , Banzhoff A. , Schauer U. , Petzoldt S. , Brehler C. , Eckhart A. , Prinz H. , Rieger C. H. L.
Published: June 2007

Elevation of salivary SIgA‐anti‐casein has been shown to occur in newborn infants at risk of allergy. The present study was designed to follow 158 infants over 3 years to relate the onset of clinical disease to SIgA levels at birth. Newborn infants were divided into 3 groups according to their risk of allergy: Group I, (n= 62; no allergy risk); Group II, (n ‐30; low allergy risk); Group III (n= 66; high risk group). The groups were matched for smoking, social background, sex, and dietary habits of the patients. SIgA‐anti‐casein was determined by a direct ELIS A. During the first year 59 infants developed atopic diseases (n= 37 of Groups I and II; n= 22 of Group III). After 3 years 37/61 infants of the high risk group had developed allergic symptoms. The frequency of atopic disease correlated with increased salivary antibody titers at birth (p < 0.05). 54% of infants with antibody titers > 250 EU/ml developed atopic symptoms at 1 year, 76% high risk infants with this titer developed atopic symptoms at 3 years of age. This study provides evidence that elevation of SIgA‐anti‐casein at birth not only reflects atopic risk as defined by cord blood IgE or family history, but correlates with the actual development of allergic disease during the first 3 years of life.
Variations in histamine, IgE and interferon concentrations in nasal secretions and seraof children with asthma associated with viral or mycoplasma infection
Authors: Chonmaitree T. , Lett‐Brown M. A.
Published: June 2007

Histamine and virus‐specific IgE appear to play some role in the pathogenesis of wheezing which occurs during viral infection. Respiratory viruses can enhance IgE‐mediated histamine release in vitro partly by inducing interleron (IFN). To investigate the role of histamine, IgE, and IFN in the pathogenesis of asthma associated with infection, we prospectively studied hospitalized infants and children (8 months to 17 years of age) with acute episodes of asthma. Patients were enrolled and acute samples were collected within 2 days of admission; convalescent samples were obtained 1 to 4 weeks later. Patients were separated into virus/mycoplasma‐assoeiated and noninfectious asthma groups by comprehensive virologic and serologic techniques. One third of acute asthma episodes proved to be virus/mycoplasma‐associated. In both asthma groups, nasal wash histamine values were significantly higher during acute attack, compared to convalescence. However, during acute attack, there was a trend for more detectable histamine and in higher concentrations from patients with infectious asthma, compared to the noninfectious group. Histamine was correlated with nasal wash and serum IgE during acute episodes of only infectious asthma. Nasal wash or serum IFN levels did not differ between the 2 patient groups. However, high IFN titers were detected in sera of all 3 patients with asthma associated with RSV infection, although RSV is known to be a poor IFN inducer. Our findings suggest an agreement with the hypothesis that histamine and IgE may play a role in attacks of asthma which arc associated with viral or mycoplasma infection. Further studies are required to confirm our obsmution and to evaluate the role of other inflammatory mediators in the mechanism of infectious asthma.
Influence of genetic and environmental factors on the level of IgE at birth
Authors: Arshad S. H. , Twiselton R. , Smith J. , Hide D. W.
Published: June 2007

The effect of hereditary and environmental factors on the level of IgE at birlh was assessed in 1319 unselected infants. Cord igE was measured using a new enzyme‐linked immunoassay. EIA Ultra® test. Information on family history of atopy and maternal smoking was obtained using a standard questionnaire. Data on length of gestation and birth weight were obtained from hospital records. Blood for maternal IgE was obtained from 1056 mothers within a week of delivery. Cord IgE levels were higher in infants with a history of atopy in the immediate family (p < 0.01). Male infants had a higher IgE than female (p < 0.01). Maternal IgE correlated positively with cord IgE (r = 0. 3, p < 0.001). There was no effect of length of gestation, birth weight, maternal smoking or month of birth on cord IgE values. It is concluded that the IgE level at birth is determined primarily by genetic factors. No significant effect of environmental factors was demonstrated in this study.