Search

The aim of the study is to investigate whether the 3-dimensional dynamic navigation system (3D-DNS) can improve experienced endodontists' (EEs') and novice endodontists' (NEs') accuracy and efficiency in osteotomy and root-end resection (RER) and to verify that the 3D-DNS enables NEs to perform osteotomy and RER as accurately and efficiently as EEs.Seventy-six roots in cadaver heads were randomly divided into 4 groups: 3D-DNS-NE, 3D-DNS-EE, freehanded (FH)-NE, and FH-EE (all, n = 19). Cone-beam computed tomography scans were taken preoperatively and postoperatively. Osteotomy and RER were planned virtually in the X-guided software (X-Nav Technologies, Lansdale). Accuracy was calculated by measuring the 2-dimensional and 3D virtual deviations and angular deflection using superimposing software (X-Nav technologies). Efficiency was determined by the time of operation and the number of mishaps.Accuracy deviations were significantly fewer in the 3D-DNS-EE group than those in the FH-EE group (P .05). We found less 2-dimensional and 3D accuracy deviations comparing the 3D-DNS-NE group to the FH-NE group (P .05). The time required for osteotomy and RER with the 3D-DNS was ∼ ½ of that required for the FH method for both EEs and NEs (P .05). We found no difference in the number of mishaps between the 3D-DNS and FH groups for EEs and NEs (P .05).The 3D-DNS improved EEs' and NEs' accuracy and efficiency in osteotomy and RER. The NEs were as efficient as the EEs using the 3D-DNS. Notably, the 3D-DNS improved the NEs' accuracy compared to the FH method, but the 3D-DNS did not enable the NEs to perform osteotomy and RER as accurately as the EEs.

Protein, glycogen, and lipid concentrations were followed in Solenopsis invicta queens, the imported fire ant, from egg deposition until the production of the first minim workers approximately 21 days later. During this time, the weight of the queens decreased from 14·7 to 7·5 mg. Immediately following egg deposition, total protein decreased by over 50 per cent for the first 6 days, then rose steadily for 9 days, then once again decreased markedly throughout the remainder of the study. Glycogen concentrations decreased rapidly from the 0·35 mg/ant found at oviposition until day 12. From this time until the end of the study, this polysaccharide remained constant at about 10 mg/ant. Lipid concentrations remained at 4·1 mg/ant for the first 9 days following oviposition, then steadily decreased to 2·3 mg/ant when the first minim workers were produced 12 days later.

Oral candidiasis in cancer patients is an infection for which inconsistent diagnostic and therapeutic strategies currently prevail. Recent studies have shown its potential importance in the development of systemic candidiasis. A clinical and cytologic study was undertaken on 52 consecutive cancer patients admitted to our institution. Although the incidence of clinical candidiasis was low (8%), 27% of patients harbored evidence of subclinical colonization by Candida. In addition, a significant correlation was found between candidal colonization and low absolute lymphocyte counts. The significance of these findings in relation to systemic candidiasis and rationale for therapy are discussed.