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Kinds of Wearers Selected AbstractsInvestigation of air gaps entrapped in protective clothing systemsFIRE AND MATERIALS, Issue 3 2002Young Kim Il Air gaps entrapped in protective clothing are known as one of the major factors affecting heat transfer through multiple layers of flexible clothing fabrics. The identification and quantification of the air gaps are two aspects of a multidisciplinary research effort directed toward improving the flame/thermal protective performance of the clothing. Today's three-dimensional (3-D) whole body digitizers, which provide accurate representations of the surface of the human body, can be a novel means for visualizing and quantifying the air gaps between the wearer and his clothing. In this paper we discuss how images from a 3-D whole body digitizer are used to determine local and global distributions of air gaps and the quantification of air gap sizes in single and multilayer clothing systems dressed on a thermal manikin. Examples are given that show concordance between air gap distributions and burn patterns obtained from full-scale manikin fire tests. We finish with a discussion of the application of air gap information to bench-scale testing to improve the protective performance of current flame/thermal protective clothing. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] Does the niqab (veil) wearer satisfy the minimal visual field for driving?OPHTHALMIC AND PHYSIOLOGICAL OPTICS, Issue 4 2008E. Ian Pearce Abstract Visual field testing of subjects wearing a niqab was carried out using the approved (Esterman) test on a Humphrey perimeter to determine if visually normal subjects met the European driving standard. Measurement of aperture dimensions of the niqab when worn was recorded. When wearing the niqab, all subjects achieved a visual field adequate to satisfy UK/European driving standards. A measurement of the limiting aperture size was obtained and a self-test method for niqab wearers was determined. [source] Conservative management of Pseudomonal infectious sclerokeratitisCLINICAL AND EXPERIMENTAL OPTOMETRY, Issue 3 2008Timothy C Smith MBBS Pseudomonal sclerokeratitis is an uncommon infection with the potential for loss of vision and the eye. A 66-year-old male contact lens wearer presented with a painful red eye diagnosed as sclerokeratitis. An intensive regimen of topical, subconjunctival and oral antibiotics as well as oral steroids was used as primary treatment. An overlying, focal collection of pus was incised and drained on two occasions. After three months of treatment, the infection had resolved and the treatment ceased. The involved sclera demonstrated a focal area of scleromalacia, which has remained stable. Infectious sclerokeratitis can be managed with conservative treatment without the need for surgical debridement and scleral grafting. [source] Use of mouthguards by basketball players in Victoria, AustraliaDENTAL TRAUMATOLOGY, Issue 4 2003Helen Cornwell Abstract ,,,Basketball is a popular sport in Australia. Although orofacial injuries are common, mouthguard (MG) wear in basketball appears to be low. The purposes of this study were: to measure mouthguard wear by basketball players before and after a promotional intervention; to assess players' knowledge of the value of mouthguards for prevention of injury; and to describe their experience of orofacial injury. Two questionnaires (baseline and follow-up) were administered to a convenience sample of 496 basketball players in Victoria, Australia. Players recruited were youths (12,15-year olds, n = 208) and adults (18 years and over, n = 288), from all basketball levels (social to elite). Completion of the baseline questionnaire was followed immediately by an intervention comprising written and verbal information, a mouthguard blank and instructions on mouthguard construction. The follow-up questionnaire was mailed to all respondents 10,12 weeks later; 135 youths (65%) and 157 adults (54%) completed this. Mouthguard wear at baseline was low but was more frequent at games (62%) than at training (25%). Despite 90% of players acknowledging the protective value of a mouthguard, wear by youths did not increase following the intervention, and wear by adults increased by only 14% for training and 10% at games. Previous orofacial injury was recorded at baseline by 23% of players, but few had requested compensation from Basketball Australia (youths, 17%; adults, 30%). Two predictor variables were statistically identified as related to mouthguard wear: previous orofacial injury and age group. Mouthguard wear was significantly more frequent amongst players with previous injury; such players were 2.76 times more likely to be wearers than those without previous injury. Youths were 2.31 times more likely to wear mouthguards than adults. Only 34 players (12% of respondents at follow-up) had a mouthguard constructed from the blank provided. Although youth and adult groups differed, the overall extent of mouthguard use was disappointingly low. Despite wide recognition of mouthguard value, the intervention had little effect on promoting their use. [source] Impaired mastication modifies the dynamics of bolus formationEUROPEAN JOURNAL OF ORAL SCIENCES, Issue 3 2006Claude Yven Mastication is a complex sensory-motor activity whereby a food product is transformed into a bolus. Consumers mainly perceive the sensory properties of the food during the intra-oral manipulation of the product. Consequently, the quality of the chewing process could have consequences on the perception of sensory properties and food choice. By focusing on meat products, this study aimed to analyze the influence of dental status on (i) dynamic adaptation of the chewing behavior (evaluated by electromyography) to the changes in texture during bolus formation and (ii) bolus properties (mechanical resistance and saliva incorporation) obtained from meat of different initial textures. Two groups of subjects (dentate subjects and denture wearers), known to present highly different chewing efficiency, were compared. For both groups, salivary flow rates were evaluated at rest and after stimulation by chewing (paraffin and meat). The salivary flow rates, assessed during chewing of a nonedible matrix (paraffin), were a good predictor of salivary flow rates induced by meat chewing for both groups of subjects. Salivary flow rates were not affected by the dental status. In contrast, the chewing behavior varied between groups. For denture wearers, the chewing pattern was strongly impaired and not adapted to the changes in meat structure during bolus formation. Denture wearers swallowed less fragmented boli than dentate subjects, but boli had a similar level of moisture for both groups of subjects. [source] Implant overdentures for edentulous elders: study of patient preferenceGERODONTOLOGY, Issue 1 2009Shahrokh Esfandiari Background:, Studies show that elders wearing implant overdentures have improved nutrition and quality of life. However, upfront costs of this therapy are high, and the income of elderly edentulous populations is low. Objectives:, This study was designed (i) to measure the preferences of edentulous patients for mandibular two-implant overdentures using Willingness-To-Pay (WTP) and Willingness-To-Accept (WTA), (ii) to assess the effect of long-term financing on WTP and (iii) to assess the desired role of health care plans in financing dental prostheses. Methods:, Edentulous elders (68,79 years; n = 36) wearing maxillary dentures and either a mandibular conventional denture (CD, n = 13) or a two-implant overdenture with ball attachments (IOD, n = 23) participated in this study. All had received their prostheses 2 years previously, as part of a randomised clinical trial. A three-part questionnaire was completed during a 20-min interview with a trained researcher. Results:, Forty-six per cent (6/13) of the CD wearers and 70% (16/23) of the IOD wearers were willing to pay three times more than the current cost of conventional dentures for implant prostheses. These percentages were increased to 77% (CD) and 96% (IOD) if participants could pay for implant overdentures in monthly instalments. Eighty-six per cent (31/36) of all participants in both groups (21/23 IOD; 10/13 CD) thought that the government should cover at least some of the cost of implant overdentures. Conclusions:, This study shows that, the majority of elderly edentate individuals who have not experienced mandibular two-implant overdenture therapy are willing to pay the cost, particularly when payment can be made in monthly instalments. [source] The relationships between oral status, physical and mental health, nutritional status and diet type in elderly Japanese women with dementiaGERODONTOLOGY, Issue 4 2008Shinsuke Sadamori Objectives:, To suggest methods for maintaining an adequate nutritional status for elderly patients with dementia by evaluating the relationships between oral status, physical and mental health, and feeding conditions. Background:, Feeding difficulties in dementia patients are related to food intake, and failure to eat may be associated with weight loss in long-term care facilities. The relationship between compromised oral function and diet is still unclear. Materials and methods:, A cross-sectional study of 94 elderly women with dementia (mean age 89.6 ± 5.6 years) from a nursing home was undertaken to investigate their oral, physical and mental and nutritional status. Results:, There were significant differences in serum albumin (p = 0.0284), N-ADL (p = 0.0005), NM scale (p = 0.0004) and HDS-R (p = 0.0004) between denture wearers and non-denture wearers. However, there were no significant differences in body mass index between denture wearers and non-denture wearers. Conclusion:, A suitable type of diet and assistance with feeding could maintain the nutritional status of elderly patients with dementia if they are still feeding themselves. The nutritional support team will benefit from the participation of a dentist. [source] Patients' experiences with partial dentures: a qualitative studyGERODONTOLOGY, Issue 4 2005Patricia A. Smith Objective:, The aim of the study was to gain insight into people's experiences of being given and using partial dentures. Methods:, In-depth semi-structured interviews were carried out with 23 people of varied age, social background and denture wearing experience in Tayside, Scotland. Participants were encouraged to discuss how they came to have partial dentures, their day-to-day denture use and their interactions with dentists. The interview data were systematically coded using key theme headings, and summary charts were constructed to facilitate analysis. Results:, The initial decision that a partial denture was needed was generally difficult to accept. People perceived the main benefits of partial dentures to be improved appearance and confidence, but experienced a variety of difficulties with their dentures and often coped with these by only wearing them on social occasions. Participants had not always told their dentists about the difficulties they experienced. Barriers to seeking help with denture problems included financial constraints, previous experience of rushed appointments or poor communication from dentists and a perceived lack of entitlement to help when partial dentures were issued free. Conclusions:, Partial dentures can be difficult to cope with. People experience a range of difficulties in wearing them, not all of which have been discussed with dentists. Informative and supportive communication when partial dentures are first needed, and subsequently, can improve the quality of patients' experiences and may help promote effective use and appropriate help-seeking by partial denture wearers. [source] Impact of Human Genome Project on treatment of frail and edentulous patients,GERODONTOLOGY, Issue 1 2004Ichiro Nishimura Objective:, Because of ongoing increases in life expectancy and deferment of edentulousness to older age, dentists are facing a different challenge to satisfy elderly denture wearers with a higher prevalence of chronic diseases. This discussion introduces the Human Genome databases as novel and powerful resources to re-examine the core problems experienced by frail and edentulous patients. Background:, Recent studies demonstrated that mandibular implant overdentures do not necessarily increase masticatory function, perception and satisfaction in denture wearers with adequate edentulous residual ridges. It has been demonstrated that the rate of edentulous residual ridge resorption significantly varies among individuals. The prognosis and cost-effectiveness of denture treatment, with or without implants, may largely depend on how the edentulous ridge is maintained. However, reliable clinical methods permitting dentists to predict the long-term health of the edentulous residual ridge are lacking. Materials and methods:, With the completion of the Human Genome Project, the genomic sequence database from this multinational consortium will provide a unique resource to determine the genetic basis of similarity and diversity of humans. Results:, One base pair in every 100 to 300 base pairs of the genome sequence varies among humans, suggesting that genetic diagnosis using the single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) may provide a novel opportunity to differentiate our edentulous patients. Conclusions:, Future dental service for the elderly will require a personalized care paradigm, using highly sensitive diagnostic technology such as SNP genomic analysis, for recommending the treatment with greatest potential benefit. [source] Oral microbial flora and oral malodour of the institutionalised elderly in JapanGERODONTOLOGY, Issue 2 2001Eiki Honda Abstract Objectives: To determine the oral health status, especially the level of oral microbial flora and oral malodour, of institutionalised elderly people compared with non-institutionalised elderly people. Setting: Three institutions and numerous private homes. Subjects: 56 institutionalised and 56 non-institutionalised elderly people. Main Outcome Measures: Institutionalised elderly people had higher levels of Candida, staphylococci, and oral malodour. Results: Institutionalised elderly people had a higher level of Candida in denture wearers, and a higher level of staphylococci and oral malodour compared with the non-institutionalised elderly. Conclusion: The institutionalised elderly have a higher risk of opportunistic infections and oral health care should be improved to protect them from these infections and to reduce oral malodour. [source] Comparisons between a mixing ability test and masticatory performance tests using a brittle or an elastic test foodJOURNAL OF ORAL REHABILITATION, Issue 3 2009T. SUGIURA Summary, A variety of chewing tests and test items have been utilized to evaluate masticatory function. The purpose of this study was to compare a mixing ability test with masticatory performance tests using peanuts or gummy jelly as test foods. Thirty-two completely dentate subjects (Dentate group, mean age: 25·1 years) and 40 removable partial denture wearers (RPD group, mean age: 65·5 years) participated in this study. The subjects were asked to chew a two-coloured paraffin wax cube as a test item for 10 strokes. Mixing Ability Index (MAI) was determined from the colour mixture and shape of the chewed cube. Subjects were asked to chew 3 g portions of peanuts and a piece of gummy jelly for 20 strokes, respectively. Median particle size of chewed peanuts was determined using a multiple-sieving method. Concentration of dissolved glucose from the surface of the chewed gummy jelly was measured using a blood glucose meter. Pearson's correlation coefficient was used to test the relationships between the MAI, median particle size and the concentration of dissolved glucose. Mixing Ability Index was significantly related to median particle size (Dentate group: r = ,0·56, P < 0·001, RPD group: r = ,0·70, P < 0·001), but not significantly related to glucose concentration (Dentate group: r = 0·12, RPD group: r = 0·21, P > 0·05). It seems that ability of mixing the bolus is more strongly related to the ability of comminuting brittle food than elastic food. [source] Validation of video versus electromyography for chewing evaluation of the elderly wearing a complete dentureJOURNAL OF ORAL REHABILITATION, Issue 8 2007E. NICOLAS summary, Chewing efficiency may affect nutritional status in the elderly. Many elderly patients are complete denture wearers, and often present cognitive problems. Those two factors make evaluation of mastication difficult with experimental methods. Analysis of video recording may be a simple way to routinely assess chewing parameters. This study aimed at validating several parameters of video evaluation versus electromyography (EMG), which is considered the ,gold standard'. The design was a prospective randomized study, carried out at the Faculty of Dentistry, University of Auvergne, Clermont-Ferrand, France. Twelve complete denture wearers chewed four model foods differing in hardness. Sessions were videotaped and EMG recordings were registered. Mastication time, number of masticatory cycles and cleaning time were recorded simultaneously by video and EMG. Two investigators independently analyzed the videos twice, in random order. Evaluation of criterion validity: a positive video/EMG correlation was found for the parameters ,chewing time' (0·89, Pearson) and ,number of masticatory cycles' (0·94, Spearman), whereas no statistical difference was found between these two EMG and video variables (t -test). Inter and intra-rater reliability gave a positive intraclass coefficient (ICC) for duration of mastication (0·86,0·98), number of masticatory cycles (0·90,0·97) and cleaning time (0·90,0·98). Discriminatory ability was studied using anova (P = 0·01): variation was significant in masticatory duration (F = 10), number of masticatory cycles (F = 10) and cleaning time (F = 4). Video may be a useful assessment tool in prosthetic rehabilitation and can be applied to help choose the type of food (solid, semi-liquid or liquid) to administer to dependent persons, particularly those suffering from dementia. [source] Quality of life and masticatory function in denture wearersJOURNAL OF ORAL REHABILITATION, Issue 5 2006H. KOSHINO summary, Successful prosthodontic treatments for a patient with removable partial dentures including maxillofacial prostheses hopefully brings about psychological wellbeing as well as improved health. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between quality of life (QOL) and the various aspects of denture function. At first, a questionnaire with a visual analog scale with 16 question items concerning denture and/or eating problems, the present state of health, psychological and physical wellbeing, life satisfaction, and QOL was developed. To discuss the validity and reliability of the questionnaire, 48 outpatients who wore a denture were asked to fill it out. Next, to discuss the difference in QOL of the patient with various kinds of dentures and conditions, 103 outpatients were asked to complete the newly developed questionnaire. The questionnaire which contained four factor areas with eight questions for denture patients was developed by factor analysis with Varimax rotation. The reliability of the QOL scale was confirmed by reliability analysis (Cronbach's ,=0·784). The QOL score of edentulous patients with a complete denture having some trouble chewing was significantly lower than that of other denture patients. It was suggested that the wearing of a denture significantly affected the QOL of elderly persons. [source] Surface EMG of jaw-elevator muscles and chewing pattern in complete denture wearersJOURNAL OF ORAL REHABILITATION, Issue 12 2005M. G. PIANCINO summary, The aim of this study was to investigate the adaptation process of masticatory patterns to a new complete denture in edentulous subjects. For this purpose, muscle activity and kinematic parameters of the chewing pattern were simultaneously assessed in seven patients with complete maxillary and mandibular denture. The patients were analysed (i) with the old denture, (ii) with the new denture at the delivery, (iii) after 1 month and (iv) after 3 months from the delivery of the new denture. Surface electromyographic (EMG) signals were recorded from the masseter and temporalis anterior muscles of both sides and jaw movements were tracked measuring the motion of a tiny magnet attached at the lower inter-incisor point. The subjects were asked to chew a bolus on the right and left side. At the delivery of the new denture, peak EMG amplitude of the masseter of the side of the bolus was lower than with the old denture and the masseters of the two sides showed the same intensity of EMG activity, contrary to the case with the old denture. EMG amplitude and asymmetry of the two masseter activities returned as with the old denture in 3 months. The EMG activity in the temporalis anterior was larger with the old denture than in the other conditions. The chewing cycle width and lateral excursion decreased at the delivery of the new denture and recovered after 3 months. [source] Oral health in relation to wearing removable dentures provided by dentists, denturists and laboratory techniciansJOURNAL OF ORAL REHABILITATION, Issue 7 2003R. TuominenArticle first published online: 5 JUN 200 summary, The aim of this study was to evaluate the oral health of elderly Finnish men wearing removable dentures supplied either by dentists, denturists or laboratory technicians. From a sample of 550 men, 362 subjects were both interviewed and clinically examined. The subjects were asked a range of questions related to their oral health and dentures. Clinical examinations were carried out by one dentist using well-defined criteria and without knowing the information the respective subjects had given in the interview. The 242 denture wearers had a higher frequency (P < 0·001) of mucous membrane lesions (78·7%) than the 120 non-wearers (27·5%). Differences between the denture providers were small, although subjects with dentures provided by dentists had less often most of the recorded mucous membrane lesions than other denture wearers. Coating of tongue and cheilitis angularis were the most commonly encountered lesions. High levels of yeast growth were observed more frequently (P < 0·02) among subjects who had obtained their dentures from dentists (41·3%) than from either denturists (17·1%) or laboratory technicians (18·2%). Among dentate subjects, the average number of remaining teeth was higher (P < 0·05) among those who had obtained their dentures from dentists (8·7) than among subjects wearing dentures from denturists (5·9) or laboratory technicians (6·2). Subjects wearing dentures supplied by dentists had slightly better oral health than other denture wearers. The observed differences can be at least partly explained by dentists' patients having higher number of remaining teeth and also more frequent check-up visits. [source] Oral hygiene habits, denture cleanliness, presence of yeasts and stomatitis in elderly peopleJOURNAL OF ORAL REHABILITATION, Issue 3 2002Y. Kulak-Ozkan The purpose of this study was to determine oral hygiene habits, denture cleanliness, presence of yeasts and denture stomatitis in elderly people. Seventy complete denture wearers were investigated clinically and mycologically. Subjects were evaluated according to, presence of denture stomatitis, presence of yeasts, denture cleanliness, frequency of denture brushing and denture cleaning methods. Swabs were taken from the palate investigated mycologically in order to identify the yeast colonies. No statistical relationship was found between denture stomatitis and frequency of denture brushing and denture cleaning methods. However, there was a statistically significant relationship between denture stomatitis, yeasts' presence and denture cleanliness. [source] Influence of the thickness of the resin palatal vault on the closest speaking space with complete denturesJOURNAL OF ORAL REHABILITATION, Issue 10 2001G. Schierano The closest speaking space (CSS) has been considered stable over time, and therefore useful to determine the vertical dimension of occlusion (VDO) in edentulous patients. Clemençon affirms that, in complete denture wearers, CSS is not constant but depends on the thickness of the resin palatal vault, and that is the air volume needed to pronounce words to remain constant. The aim of this study was to evaluate Clemençon hypothesis in a group of edentulous patients rehabilitated with traditional maxillary denture and mandibular implant anchored overdenture. The CSS was determined by means of a kinematics method using the Elite System® at 30, 60, 90, 180, 360 days from delivery. The CSS was assessed twice at each stage: with the unmodified denture and a second time after thickening the resin palatal vault by 2 mm with a calibrated wax layer. The CSS after thickening the resin palatal vault was wider. The wider CSS observed can be because of oro-sensory feedback excited by contact between tongue and palatal vault. As hypothesized by Clemençon thickening the resin palatal vault could be a useful procedure to increase the VDO, in cases in which it is too low from the aesthetic stand point. [source] Comparison of oral sensory function in complete denture and implant-supported prosthesis wearersJOURNAL OF ORAL REHABILITATION, Issue 3 2001Kyung-Soo Jang In order to compare the differences of part of the oral sensory functions among natural dentition, complete denture wearers and implant-supported prostheses wearers, tactile and pressure awareness was measured. Tactile sense was estimated by the thickness perception threshold between upper and lower dentition. Sensibility of pressure feeling was evaluated by threshold of lateral loading on tooth. Within this limited experiment, it could be concluded that an osseointegrated root form implant helped towards restoration of oral sensory functions. [source] A clinical diagnosis of diurnal (non-sleep) bruxism in denture wearersJOURNAL OF ORAL REHABILITATION, Issue 6 2000K. Piquero The purpose of this study was to establish a clinical method for diagnosing diurnal bruxism in denture wearers by recording masseter and anterior temporal electromygraph (EMG) activity. Seven suspected bruxists and five normal patients who wore complete dentures and/or distal extension base removable partial dentures were selected for participation. EMG activity in both the masseter and the anterior temporal muscles was recorded bilaterally during silent reading (10 min), maximal voluntary clenching (MVC), tapping in centric occlusion, lateral movements, chewing and swallowing. No significant differences of EMG activity were found between the groups during tapping, lateral movement, chewing and swallowing (P>0·05). However, during 10 min of silent reading, a significant difference was found between the groups when comparing masseter muscle activity (P<0·05). A threshold of 10% of MVC of at least 3-s duration was used to define an individual bruxism event. When the muscle activity recorded during silent reading was further analysed using these criteria, the control group displayed no bruxing activity while the suspected bruxist group displayed a mean frequency of six bruxism events (range 2,10). It was concluded that: (a) masseter muscle activity recorded during 10 min of silent reading showed significant difference between the groups; (b) the criteria selected in this study for the detection of sleep bruxism can also be used to assess diurnal bruxism; and (c) it is possible to diagnose diurnal bruxism in denture wearers by measuring the masseter EMG activity during 10 min of silent reading. [source] Reducing the Incidence of Denture Stomatitis: Are Denture Cleansers Sufficient?JOURNAL OF PROSTHODONTICS, Issue 4 2010Anto Jose MSc Abstract Purpose:,Candida albicans is the predominant oral yeast associated with denture stomatitis. With an increasing population of denture wearers, the incidence of denture stomatitis is increasing. Effective management of these patients will alleviate the morbidity associated with this disease. The aim of this study was to examine the capacity of four denture cleansers to efficiently decontaminate and sterilize surfaces covered by C. albicans biofilms. Materials and Methods: Sixteen C. albicans strains isolated from denture stomatitis patients and strain ATCC 90028 were grown as mature confluent biofilms on a 96-well format and immersed in Dentural, MedicalÔ Interporous®, Steradent Active Plus, and Boots Smile denture cleansers according to the manufacturers' instructions or overnight. The metabolic activity and biomass of the biofilms were then quantified, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) used to examine treated biofilms. Results: Dentural was the most effective denture cleanser, reducing the biomass by greater than 90% after 20 minutes. Steradent Active plus was significantly more effective following 10-minute immersion than overnight (p < 0.001). All cleansers reduced the metabolic activity by greater than 80% following overnight immersion; however, Boots Smile exhibited significantly reduced metabolic activity following only a 15-minute immersion (p < 0.001). SEM revealed residual C. albicans material following Dentural treatment. Conclusions: This study showed that denture cleansers exhibit effective anti- C. albicans biofilm activity, both in terms of removal and disinfection; however, residual biofilm retention that could lead to regrowth and denture colonization was observed. Therefore, alternative mechanical disruptive methods are required to enhance biofilm removal. [source] Periodontitis lesions are the main source of salivary cytomegalovirusMOLECULAR ORAL MICROBIOLOGY, Issue 4 2009ahin Background:, Herpesviruses play causal or cooperative roles in childhood infections, tumorigenesis, ulcerogenesis, and periodontitis. Saliva is a common vehicle of herpesvirus horizontal transmission, but the source of salivary herpesviruses remains obscure. To evaluate the significance of periodontal disease in shedding of oral herpesviruses, this study determined the genome-copy counts of human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) and Epstein,Barr virus (EBV) in whole saliva of subjects with periodontitis, gingivitis, or no natural teeth. Methods:, Whole saliva was collected from 14 periodontitis patients, 15 gingivitis patients and 13 complete denture wearers. The study subjects were systemically healthy and had not received periodontal treatment in the past 3 months. Real-time TaqMan polymerase chain reaction was used to determine the salivary load of HCMV and EBV. Results:, Salivary HCMV was detected in seven (50%) periodontitis patients, but not in any gingivitis or edentulous subjects (P < 0.001). Salivary EBV was detected in 11 (79%) periodontitis patients, in five (33%) gingivitis patients, and in seven (54%) edentulous subjects (P = 0.076). Salivary samples showed copy counts of HCMV in the range of 3.3 × 103,4.2 × 104/ml and of EBV in the range of 3.6 × 102,1.6 × 109/ml. Conclusions:, HCMV and EBV are commonly present in the saliva of periodontitis patients. Periodontitis lesions of systemically healthy subjects seem to constitute the main origin of salivary HCMV, but do not comprise the sole source of salivary EBV. [source] Extended wearing trial of Trifield lens device for ,tunnel vision'OPHTHALMIC AND PHYSIOLOGICAL OPTICS, Issue 3 2010Russell L. Woods Abstract Severe visual field constriction (tunnel vision) impairs the ability to navigate and walk safely. We evaluated Trifield glasses as a mobility rehabilitation device for tunnel vision in an extended wearing trial. Twelve patients with tunnel vision (5,22° wide) due to retinitis pigmentosa or choroideremia participated in the 5-visit wearing trial. To expand the horizontal visual field, one spectacle lens was fitted with two apex-to-apex prisms that vertically bisected the pupil on primary gaze. This provides visual field expansion at the expense of visual confusion (two objects with the same visual direction). Patients were asked to wear these spectacles as much as possible for the duration of the wearing trial (median 8, range 6,60 weeks). Clinical success (continued wear, indicating perceived overall benefit), visual field expansion, perceived direction and perceived visual ability were measured. Of 12 patients, nine chose to continue wearing the Trifield glasses at the end of the wearing trial. Of those nine patients, at long-term follow-up (35,78 weeks), three reported still wearing the Trifield glasses. Visual field expansion (median 18, range 9,38°) was demonstrated for all patients. No patient demonstrated adaptation to the change in visual direction produced by the Trifield glasses (prisms). For reported difficulty with obstacles, some differences between successful and non-successful wearers were found. Trifield glasses provided reported benefits in obstacle avoidance to 7 of the 12 patients completing the wearing trial. Crowded environments were particularly difficult for most wearers. Possible reasons for long-term discontinuation and lack of adaptation to perceived direction are discussed. [source] Randomised controlled trial of the effects of two rigid gas permeable (RGP) contact lens materials and two surface cleaners on straylight valuesOPHTHALMIC AND PHYSIOLOGICAL OPTICS, Issue 5 2009Marten F. Fortuin Abstract Purpose:, In a double-masked randomized controlled crossover study we investigated both the retinal responses to straylight, and the effects of lens cleaners on straylight values, in two different RGP contact lens materials. Methods:, Thirty patients (20,59 years) wearing RGP lenses were refitted with new lenses made of Boston XO material in one eye and made of Comfort O2 (ONSI-56) material in the other eye. Reported wetting angles for the Boston XO material (103°) and for the ONSI-56 material (7.2°) were obtained by sessile drop measurements. After refitting, the study comprised three 5-week trial periods. In Period 1 half of the participants (Group A) wore Boston XO lenses in their right eye and Comfort O2 (ONSI-56) lenses in their left eye, and the other half (Group B) vice versa. In Period 2 Group A wore Comfort O2 (ONSI-56) lenses in their right eye and Boston XO lenses in their left, and Group B vice versa. All participants used Miraflow cleaner during periods 1 and 2. In Period 3, during which all participants used Boston cleaner, Group A wore Boston XO lenses in their right eye and Comfort O2 (ONSI-56) lenses in their left eye and Group B vice versa. Straylight data (log S) were obtained with and without contact lenses using the Oculus C-Quant straylight meter in all three periods. Central corneal thickness (CCT) was measured in the second and third periods. Results:, When not wearing lenses (n = 60 eyes) at the end of the second 5 week trial period straylight was measured twice with averages of 1.07 log S, and the corrected CCT measurements averaged 546 ,m. Straylight values with Comfort O2 (ONSI-56) reached 1.15 log S at the end of both the second (n = 25 eyes) and third periods (n = 23 eyes). Straylight values with Boston XO were 1.17 log S (n = 26 eyes) at the end of the second period, and 1.16 log S (n = 25 eyes) at the end of the third period. Conclusions:, Existing RGP lens wearers refitted with new lenses with different contact angles, made of Boston XO and Comfort O2 (ONSI-56) showed, over three 5 week periods, relatively small increases in straylight, which were functionally comparable, irrespective of the type of lens material or lens cleaner used. At every visit, straylight values and CCTs returned to baseline levels after RGP lens removal, confirming that the straylight fluctuations were mainly due to scattering from the RGP lenses; or tear film interaction; or a combination of both. [source] Does the niqab (veil) wearer satisfy the minimal visual field for driving?OPHTHALMIC AND PHYSIOLOGICAL OPTICS, Issue 4 2008E. Ian Pearce Abstract Visual field testing of subjects wearing a niqab was carried out using the approved (Esterman) test on a Humphrey perimeter to determine if visually normal subjects met the European driving standard. Measurement of aperture dimensions of the niqab when worn was recorded. When wearing the niqab, all subjects achieved a visual field adequate to satisfy UK/European driving standards. A measurement of the limiting aperture size was obtained and a self-test method for niqab wearers was determined. [source] Poor recognition of the UK minimum driving vision standard by motorists attending optometric practiceOPHTHALMIC AND PHYSIOLOGICAL OPTICS, Issue 3 2007Jonathan S. Pointer Abstract Purpose:, To evaluate the current level of recollection of the vehicle number plate viewing distance in a group of motorists. Knowledge of this distance is required to self-check compliance with the UK legal minimum driving vision standard. Methods:, A cohort of 480 motorists aged ,17 years attending optometric practice for a routine sight test agreed to participate in a short verbal survey. They were asked whether they could state the current UK statutory vehicle number plate viewing distance as specified in the Highway Code. Also recorded were each motorist's high contrast logMAR visual acuity, whether or not an optical prescription was habitually worn when driving, and brief demographic details (age, gender). Results:, No statistically significant gender-based difference was present in age distribution, mean logMAR binocular acuity, or age and number (proportion) of motorists who habitually wore a refractive correction when driving. The level of mean binocular acuity was uniformly good (<0.0 logMAR, or better than 6/6 Snellen). However, the recollection by respondents of the statutory viewing distance was poor: only 5% were able to state correctly the current distance (20 m), and 22% recalled the previous (20.5 m/67 ft) or the original (22.9 m/75 ft) statutory distance. Of the remainder, 28% underestimated and 45% overestimated the distance. A statistically significant gender-based difference (p = 0.01) between the recollections of non-prescription wearers became marked (p = 0.001) for habitual wearers, in which latter case the median value and range of estimates by female motorists was greater than their male counterparts. Conclusions:, The level of recognition by these motorists of the viewing distance necessary to satisfy the legal minimum vision standard required for driving on UK roads was low and comparable to the levels recorded in two similar surveys undertaken by other authors 10 and 20 years ago. An inexpensive and easily implemented publicity innovation is suggested which could help improve driver appreciation of the statutory distance and promote compliance with the legal vision standard. [source] Microbial contamination of contact lenses and lens care accessories of soft contact lens wearers (university students) in Hong KongOPHTHALMIC AND PHYSIOLOGICAL OPTICS, Issue 1 2007M. S. Yung Abstract Purpose:, This study aimed to examine the rates of microbial contamination, and identify contaminants associated with contact lenses and lens care accessories used by a group of young contact lens wearers. Methods:, Collected contact lenses, lens cases, and lens care solutions were studied by bacterial culture. Contamination rates of these samples were recorded and compared with those reported in previous studies. Results:, Of the samples tested, 9% of lens extracts, 34% of case extracts and 11% of solution samples were contaminated with ocular pathogenic microorganisms. Serratia spp., Staphylococcus aureus and coagulase-negative staphylococci were the most common microorganisms isolated. Lens cases were the most frequently contaminated item. Lens cases also yielded the widest range of bacterial isolates. Contact lenses used by occasional wearers were associated with a higher contamination rate. Using either saline or multipurpose solution to rinse lenses before use appeared to be effective in reducing incidence of contamination. Conclusion:, Our findings demonstrate that contact lenses and lens care accessories are not well maintained by contact lens wearers. Regular reviews and reinforcement of lens care procedures for the usage and care of contact lenses and lens care accessories is therefore important and essential. [source] Incidence of corneal pigmented arc and factors associated with its appearance in orthokeratology,OPHTHALMIC AND PHYSIOLOGICAL OPTICS, Issue 6 2005Pauline Cho Abstract Purpose:, To determine the incidence of the corneal pigmented arc in orthokeratology (ortho-k) lens wearers over 12 months of lens wear and the factors associated with its appearance. Method:, Thirty-five ortho-k subjects were recruited; refractive and corneal changes after lens wear (single-lens protocol) were monitored over 12 months. The incidence of the pigmented arc after 3, 6 and 12 months of lens wear was determined. Results:, The incidence of corneal pigmented arc was 17% (27%), 49% (49%) and 90% (93%) after 3, 6 and 12 months lens wear respectively in the left and right eyes. For subjects with arcs observed in the left eye within the first 6 months of lens wear, the mean ± S.D. period of lens wear before initial detection of the arc was 14 ± 7.4 weeks, and no correlation was found between this factor and the baseline spherical and cylindrical refractive errors (i.e. refractive sphere and cylinder, respectively), spherical equivalent refractive error (SERE), the target myopia reduction, the amount of refractive sphere (or SERE) reduction and changes in central and peripheral corneal curvatures after 6 months of lens wear. Baseline refractive sphere, baseline SERE, target, amount of myopia reduction, and change in central corneal curvature were significantly larger (p < 0.05) in those subjects with pigmented arcs after about 6 months of lens wear. The intensity of the observed pigmented arcs after about 6 months of lens wear was significantly related to the time when it was first observed (p = 0.003). Significant correlation was also found between the intensity of the arcs and the following parameters: baseline refractive sphere and SERE, target, change in central corneal curvature, and amount of myopia reduction (p < 0.006). After about 12 months of lens wear, the intensity of observed arcs was significantly related to the baseline refractive sphere, SERE and the target (p < 0.006). Conclusion:, The incidence of ortho-k-associated pigmented arc increases from 17% after 3 months of lens wear to over 90% after 12 months of lens wear. The intensity of the arc is related to the time when the arc first appeared. Both the incidence and the intensity of the arc are related to the period of lens wear, baseline refractive sphere, SERE and the target. [source] Clinical grading of corneal staining of non-contact lens wearersOPHTHALMIC AND PHYSIOLOGICAL OPTICS, Issue 1 2001Morven Dundas Summary To distinguish normal from pathological corneal fluorescein staining requires knowledge of background levels of staining among otherwise healthy individuals. Corneal staining of 102 non-contact lens wearing subjects was assessed using a photographic grading scale that uses a generic (0 to 4) scale to score corneal staining. Some degree of corneal staining was found on 79% of the corneas. Low inter-observer variability suggests that the corneal staining grading scale can be used successfully with decimal rather than integer scale increments. [source] Electronic Security Systems and Active Implantable Medical DevicesPACING AND CLINICAL ELECTROPHYSIOLOGY, Issue 8 2002WERNER IRNICH IRNICH, W.: Electronic Security Systems and Active Implantable Medical Devices. How do active implantable medical devices react in the presence of strong magnetic fields in the frequency range between extremely low frequency (ELF) to radiofrequency (RF) as they are emitted by electronic security systems (ESS)? There are three different sorts of ESSs: electronic article surveillance (EAS) devices, metal detector (MDS) devices, and radiofrequency identification (RFID) systems. Common to all is the production of magnetic fields. There is an abundance of literature concerning interference by ESS gates with respect to if there is an influence possible and if such an influence can bear a risk for the AIMD wearers. However, there has been no attempt to study the physical mechanism nor to develop a model of how and under which conditions magnetic fields can influence pacemakers and defibrillators and how they could be disarmed by technological means. It is too often assumed that interference of AIMD with ESS is inevitable. Exogenous signals of similar intensity and rhythm to heart signals can be misinterpreted and, thus, confuse the implant. Important for the interference coupling mechanism is the differentiation between a "unipolar" and a "bipolar" system. With respect to magnetic fields, the left side implanted pacemaker is the most unfavorable case as the lead forms approximately a semicircular area of maximum 225 cm2 into which a voltage can be induced. This assumption yields an interference coupling model that can be expressed by simple mathematics. The worst-case conditions for induced interference voltages are a coupling area of 225 cm2 that is representative for a large human, a homogeneous magnetic field perpendicular to the area formed by the lead, and a unipolar ventricular pacemaker system that is implanted on the left side of the thorax and has the highest interference sensitivity. In bipolar systems the fields must be 17 times larger when compared to a unipolar system to have the same effect. The magnetic field for interfering with ICDs must be 1.7 stronger than that of the most sensitive unipolar pacemaker. The lowest interference thresholds measured over the last 10 years in the low frequency range (16 2/3 Hz,24 kHz) together with thresholds > 24 kHz that were supplied by the CETECOM study are listed. Both sets of data together with the coupling model, allow for judging which fields of ESSs could influence AIMDs. From measurements at gate antennas, it is possible to derive a "maximum allowed field" curve over the whole frequency range, below which no interference will occur. Comparison of data from literature with these maximum allowed fields confirm the correctness of the calculations. Thus, it is possible to predict interference situations in gates if the magnetic field is known. If all future pacemakers were to have the immunity against interference of the better 50% of today's pacemakers, the magnetic field ceiling values could be at least four times higher. The same is true if the ventricular sensitivity is routinely set at 7 mV. Pacemaker manufacturers should consider filter improvement with modern technology, but gate manufacturers should not claim the privilege of being out of bounds. [source] 3223: Dry eye syndrome and omega-3 fatty acidsACTA OPHTHALMOLOGICA, Issue 2010T KAERCHER Purpose Dry eye disease is characterized by an inflammatory component of the ocular surface. Pathways to modulate inflammation include corticoids and cyclosporine. Omega-3 fatty acids like eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid represent an alternate pharmacologic way to influence the inflammatory cascade. Methods Clinical studies. Results An epidemiologic study in 32.470 healthy women showed that those with a higher intake of omega-3 fatty acids had a 68% decreased prevalence of dry eye syndrome. Hyposecretory dry eye was tested after intake of omega-3 fatty acids for 45 days. Symptoms, signs and inflammatory markers like HLA-DR improved. Hyperevaporative dry eye improved after a long-term supplementation with omega-3 fatty acids with respect to symptoms, break-up time and meibom score. Patients with refractive surgery (PRK) improved after omega-3 fatty acids intake; this was derived from the OSDI-score, Schirmer I test and tear clearance. In 102 contact-lens wearers the symptoms and signs of dry eye improved after 12 weeks therapy with omega-3 fatty acids. Conclusion Nutricionals with omega-3 fatty acids show evidence-based effects on the inflammatory component of ocular surface disease and tear film disorder. Their beneficial effect was tested for hypovolemic and hyperevaporative dry eye. Patients after refractive surgery and contact lens wearers improved after supplementation, too. In contrast to the available anti-inflammatory therapy the supplementation is apt for a long-term application. [source] | ||||||||||