1

Research Bulletin

Vol 3, Issue 4 (Oct-Dec 2016)

Vice Deanship of Postgraduate Studies and

Scientific Research

Research Unit

Chair

Dr. Emad AlShwaimi

Members

Prof. Khalid Almas

Dr. Neveen Mokhtar

Dr. Abdul Samad Khan

Dr. Abdul Majeed

Dr. Eman Bakhurji

Dr. Hatem Abouhashish

Dr. Imran Farooq

Initiative of the

Research Unit,

College of

Dentistry, Imam

AbdulRahman

AlFaisal

University

2

WHAT’S INSIDE

THIS ISSUE?

Experts corner ..….……….....…………………………….......3

Research News…….………………………………………….…4

Faculty publications……...……………………………….….9

In Press publications…..…...………………………………14

Contact information…….………………………….….……15

3

Experts Corner

A Message to Young Researchers

Scientific research engages the researcher’s intellectual thinking and experiments to fingerprint his/her

brainstorming in the field and to communicate logically with other researchers around the world.

Research involves specific guidelines and crucial steps that determine the researches’ validity, power,

and its category. Use of specific research models may assist in developing and amending the structure of

research and assist the goal of achieving publication in a high-impact journal.

Currently, most dental researchers attempt to publish their manuscripts in high-impact journals. Because

there has been a dramatic expansion in the dental research field, publication in high impact journals has

become more of a challenge. Overcoming this competitive challenge begins with the researcher, who

should keep in mind that editors are seeking exceptionally high quality projects. As the researcher

develops a hypothesis, the researcher should consider the research end result. There are several key

points within the development of a quality research project that improve the chance of publication,

which may help young researchers in simplifying and overcoming the dilemmas of scientific research

and the creation of a precise, highly sought-after project. Some project suggestions follow:

1. Development of the research hypothesis and proposal: creation of the research hypothesis requires

the researcher to search the databases about the subject and to read deeply to decide upon an innovative

hypothesis and its relevance to the field. In addition, the researcher should study the most recent

material that exists in similarly conducted research and the methodology within that research. In

addition, the researcher should think about the meaningful correlation between the research objectives

and the practical or clinical implications. The research proposal should be written concisely with clearly

identified objectives, the materials and the methods, and the predicted results.

2. Expert consultation and the research team formation: consulting one or more experts after creation

of the research proposal is an effective way to determine the project’s validity. An expert can assist in

strengthening the research project by modifying or adding to the objectives and the methods. In addition,

the expert may refer the researcher to specific studies that can be used as a model, particularly for the

materials and methods section. Selection of the research team, including co-authors, research assistants,

and a biostatistician and getting their agreement to participate in the research, can make the research

move smoothly and may help to identify and correct any research drawbacks before the research project

begins.

Dr. Ahmad M. Al-Thobity

BDS, MDS, FRCD(C)

Assistant Professor and Consultant of Prosthodontics,

Chairman Dept. of Substitutive Dental Sciences,

College of Dentistry, Imam AbdulRahman AlFaisal University

4

materials and methods section. Selection of the research team, including co-authors, research assistants, and a biostatistician and getting their agreement to participate in the research, can make the research move smoothly and may help to identify and correct any research drawbacks before the research project begins. 3. Selection of the proper journal for publication: specific research benefits from the choice of a target journal for publication. The researcher can then be assured that the proposed research fits the journal’s scope and guidelines. Reading recent journal issues may also assist the researcher in figuring out the journal’s direction, and the researcher can get a broader vision of the possibility of publishing the proposed project in the target journal. 4. Development of the research methodology: wherever possible, the researcher should find strong evidence that supports a clear result. Using advanced instruments and techniques can reflect the project’s strength, which draws the attention of journal editors. Moreover, supporting the research project with figures, graphs, and tables can eliminate any repetitive writing and provide the evidence of a correctly deployed methodology. 5. Manuscript preparation writing and editing: these are critical steps, where most authors fail to fulfill the journal’s editorial requirements. A strong title and abstract are essential, and they should concisely reflect the research’s core ideas. The researcher should be very careful when drawing study conclusions, which should report the research results exactly. After manuscript writing, a discussion among the authors helps to identify writing weaknesses, whether they occur in paraphrasing, word selection, paragraph order, or spelling. Researchers should consult editing experts who have the skills to positively impact the manuscript before its submission to a journal. 6. Persistence: manuscript rejection, which may happen, is not the end of the story but the beginning of another attempt. By carefully addressing reviewer’s comments, the researcher can accentuate the research’s contribution and positive points, which can increase the chance to publish in another journal. 7. Build up your own experience: as scientific research is structured knowledge-wise, each research project becomes a cumulative experience, wherein the researcher learns from past mistakes and avoids making those mistakes moving forward.

Research News

1. Best Paper 2015 competition

On behalf of College of Dentistry,

University of Dammam, the

research unit would like to

congratulate Dr. Ahmed Al-Subaie

who won third place in “Best

Papers 2015 competition” of the

Division of Biomedical Sciences,

Faculty of Dentistry, McGill

University, Canada.

5

2. Interns first research project presentation

The interns at COD gave a presentation about their research projects on 13th Dec, 2016. These presentations were

attended by interns and faculty members.

3. Participation of students in research symposiums

We would like to congratulate all the students who represented College of Dentistry, Imam AbdulRahman AlFaisal

University in 11th Arab Society of Paediatric Dentistry Conference from 30th Nov to 1st Dec, 2016 in Riyadh.

6

Details of the presentations are as follows

# Author(s)/Presenter Type of

Presentation Title of Presentation

1. Hassan A. Alsubaie Poster

The association between healthy eating and

dental caries among adolescents in Dammam,

Saudi Arabia

2. Zaina Z. Sallout Poster

Sealent prevalence and associated factors

among school children, Eastern Province,

Saudi Arabia

3. Abdulelah A. Alsubaie

Abdulhadi A. AlAli Poster

Use of social media for oral health

information among male Saudi adolescents

4. Sarah Nabil Fita

Lina M. Alzahrani Poster

Caries in school children: Cross sectional

comparative study, Eastern Province, Saudi

Arabia

5. Mojtaba H. Alowa Poster Association between caries and sugary snacks

in male Saudi adolescents

6. Yara K. Almaimouni

Hoda H. Albaqawi Poster

Dental sign language for Saudi hearing

impaired patients

7. Abdullah M. Almulhim Poster Association between soft drinks and dental

caries in male adolescent in Saudi Arabia

4. Research bulletin turns 2

It has been two years since we published the first issue of Research Bulletin (RB). The purpose of RB was

to help Vice Deanship of Postgraduate Studies and Scientific Research in promoting a culture of

performing research in the college. We would like to thank our readership and are looking forward to

your continued support.

7

5. Students Research Club

Male and female students research club meetings under the patronage of Vice Deanship of Postgraduate

Studies and Scientific Research in the COD are being conducted regularly with great input from the

students.

Dr. Asim Al-Ansari enriching the students with his experience Dr. Amre Atmeh gave a presentation in students research club on in dental education research (22nd Nov, 2016) 14th Dec, 2016.

6. Statement of appreciation

We would like to extend our appreciation to all the faculty members of College of Dentistry who have placed tremendous effort in improving the research profile of the college this year. It is because of these extraordinary

efforts, we now have 61 publications (49 international, 12 local) this year. As compared to the last years, a clear progress can be seen which is highly appreciable.

8

7. Research Seminar Series

This quarter, the Vice Deanship for Postgraduate Studies and Research at the College of Dentistry organized the

Research Seminar for faculty members on 25th Oct and 29th Nov, 2016. The seminars were attended by the Dean,

Vice Deans, Chairs of Departments, and all faculty members at the college. Topics of the presented researches were

1) The use of virtual patients for teaching professionalism in dental education (Dr. Hesham Marei) 2) Synthesis

and characterizations of bioactive dental restorative material (Dr. Abdul Samad Khan) 3) Total and soluble

fluoride concentration present in various commercial brands of children toothpastes (Dr. Khalifa Al-Khalifa) 4)

Comparative Effect of Different Polymerization Techniques on the Flexural and Surface Properties of Acrylic

Denture Bases (Dr. Mohammed Gad)

Dr. Hesham Marei Dr. Abdul Samad Khan

Dr. Khalifa Al-Khalifa Dr. Mohammed Gad

8. Student Research Grants

We would like to congratulate all the students and their supervisors, who were successful in receiving funding for their research projects.

No. Students Primary investigator Title Amount requested (SR) SG. 2016004 Alaa Al Shaia, Alanoud Al

Dubayan, Sarah Al Urifan, Alaa Abdullah

Prof. Hala Bhagat Effect of cyclic stresses on

the transverse strength of two tooth colored restorative materials with

modified filler systems

6100

SG. 2016006 Jawahra Al Jindan, Shahad

Al Ammar, Raneem Al Garzaei

Dr. Naveen Mokhtar The effect of simulated

tooth brushing on surface profile of nano resin coated and nano zirconia

reinforced glass-ionomer restoratiove materials

8,040

SG. 2016009 Mouna Al Sunni, Zainab Al Basry, Baneen Al Shammasi

Prof. Khalid Almas The pre and post treatment of salivary cariogenic microbial profile in adult

diabetic patients with and without periodontal diseases.

11,575

9

1. Breuer-Weil A, Almasoud NN, Abbasi B et al. Parametric Simulations of Slanted 1D Photonic Crystal Sensors.

Nanoscale Res Lett. 2016 Dec;11(1):157.

Abstract

Photonic crystals and band gap materials act as manipulators of light and have a plethora of applications. They are

made up of stacks of alternating dielectric constants. This article shows the simulations of an inclined, one

dimensional and tuneble photonic crystal, using numerical finite element methods. The photonic crystal was made

up of silver nanoparticles embedded in a hydrogel matrix and it has the ability to change and recover its

periodicity. A series of factors concerning the geometry of the lattice were tested in order to analyze the efficiency,

performance and optimize the properties of the optical sensor. These factors range from the size of the

nanoparticles and their density within the stacks, to observing the effect of diffraction angle in readouts.

2. Al-Eraky MM, Marei HF. A fresh look at Miller's pyramid: assessment at the 'Is' and 'Do' levels. Med Educ. 2016

Dec;50(12):1253-1257.

Absrtact

In its silver jubilee, we celebrate the ground-breaking pyramid of George Miller by submitting a fresh look at it. We

discuss two questions. (i) Does the classical pyramidal structure perfectly portray the relationships of the four

levels that were described by Miller? (ii) Can the model of Miller fulfill the unmet needs of assessors to measure

evolving essential constructs and accommodate the increasingly sophisticated practice of assessment of health

professionals? In response to the first question, Miller's pyramid is revisited in view of two assumptions for

pyramidal structures, namely: hierarchy and tapering. Then we suggest different configurations for the same

classical four levels and indicate when to use each one. With regard to the second question, we provide a rationale

for amending the pyramid with two further dimensions to assess personal qualities of students at the 'Is' level and

their performance in teams at the 'Do' (together) level. At the end of the article, we yearn to think outside the

pyramid and suggest the Assessment Orbits framework to assess students as individuals and in teams. The five

Assessment Orbits alert educators to assess the emerging cognitive and non-cognitive constructs, without

implying features such as hierarchy or tapering that are ingrained in pyramidal structures. The 'Is' orbit attends to

the personal qualities of graduates 'who' we may (or may not) trust to be our physicians. Assessment of teams at

the 'Do' level (together) offers a paradigm shift in assessment from competitive ranking (storming) among

students toward norming and performing as teams.

3. Al-Thobity AM. Announcing the Journal of Dental and Craniofacial Research. J Den Craniofac Res. 2016 Dec, 1:1.

Abstract

The history of dental publications has shown tremendous change during the last century. Over the last five

decades in particular, the majority of dental journals were initiated to describe rapid developments in dental

research, and they mirrored the tremendous innovations in modern dentistry through the diversity among dental

journals and their published research. In line with these developments, dental education has made great leaps

forward in all dental disciplines, including education methods, skills, and technology, all of which broadened and

deepened the scope of various research specialties.

4. El Gezawi M, Kaisarly D, Al-Saleh H, ArRejaie A, Al-Harbi F, Kunzelmann KH. Degradation Potential of Bulk

versus Incrementally Applied and Indirect Composites: Color, Microhardness and Surface Deterioration. Oper

Dent. 2016 Nov/Dec;41(6):e195-e208.

Abstract

his study investigated the color stability and microhardness of five composites exposed to four beverages with

different pH values. Composite discs were produced (n=10); Filtek Z250 (3M ESPE) and Filtek P90 (3M ESPE)

were applied in two layers (2 mm, 20 seconds), and Tetric N-Ceram Bulk Fill (TetricBF, Ivoclar Vivadent) and

SonicFill (Kerr) were applied in bulk (4 mm) and then light cured (40 seconds, Ortholux-LED, 1600

mW/cm2). Indire

RECENT FACULTY PUBLICATIONS (Most recent first)

10

mW/cm2). Indirect composite Sinfony (3M ESPE) was applied in two layers (2 mm) and cured (Visio system, 3M ESPE). The specimens were polished and tested for color stability; ΔE was calculated using spectrophotometer readings. Vickers microhardness (50 g, dwell time=45 seconds) was assessed on the top and bottom surfaces at baseline, 40 days of storage, subsequent repolishing, and 60 days of immersion in distilled water (pH=7.0), Coca-Cola (pH=2.3), orange juice (pH=3.75), or anise (pH=8.5) using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The materials had similar ΔE values (40 days, p>0.05), but TetricBF had a significantly greater ΔE than P90 or SF (40 days). The ΔE was less for P90 and TetricBF than for Z250, SonicFill, and Sinfony (60 days). Repolishing and further immersion significantly affected the ΔE (p<0.05) except for P90. All composites had significantly different top vs bottom baseline microhardnesses. This was insignificant for the Z250/water, P90/orange juice (40 days), and Sinfony groups (40 and 60 days). Immersion produced variable time-dependent deterioration of microhardness in all groups. Multivariate repeated measures analysis of variance with post hoc Bonferroni tests were used to compare the results. ΔE and microhardness changes were significantly inversely correlated at 40 days, but this relationship was insignificant at 60 days (Pearson test). SEM showed degradation (40 days) that worsened (60 days). Bulk-fill composites differ regarding color-stability and top-to-bottom microhardness changes compared with those of other composites. P90 showed better surface degradation resistance. In conclusion, bulk-fill composites are not promising alternatives to incremental and indirect composites regarding biodegradation. 5. AlShwaimi E, Bogari D, Ajaj R, Al-Shahrani S, Almas K, Majeed A. In Vitro Antimicrobial Effectiveness of Root Canal Sealers against Enterococcus faecalis: A Systematic Review. J Endod. 2016 Nov;42(11):1588-1597.. Abstract INTRODUCTION: The purpose of this systematic review was to summarize the outcomes of in vitro studies of root canal sealers for their antimicrobial effectiveness against Enterococcus faecalis on the basis of direct contact test. METHODS: An exhaustive literature search was performed by using MEDLINE, Scopus, TRIP, and OpenThesis databases, followed by an extensive hand search of references of identified articles. Two independent reviewers evaluated the studies for eligibility against inclusion and exclusion criteria and performed data abstraction and risk of bias evaluations. RESULTS: A total of 31 articles were assessed for eligibility. Of these, 24 met the inclusion criteria and were included in the systematic review. A considerable heterogeneity was found in the methodologies of included studies. Therefore, it was not feasible to perform meta-analysis. Majority of the studies reported that different categories of freshly prepared sealers possessed some form of positive antimicrobial activity against E. faecalis for up to 24 hours. Antimicrobial efficacy was lost as the material set. Moderate evidence was found for no antimicrobial activity of aged (2-day to 7-day set) sealer samples across all categories. CONCLUSIONS: The evidence indicated positive antimicrobial activity of freshly mixed sealers against E. faecalis. Antimicrobial efficacy was lost as the material set, with no bacterial growth inhibition by 2-day to 7-day set sealer samples. However, the studies included in this review presented medium to high risk of bias. This review identified the need for the development of standardized methods to evaluate antimicrobial activity of root canal sealers in in-vitro studies. 6. Marei HF, Al-Khalifa KS. Pattern of online communication in teaching a blended oral surgery course. Eur J Dent Educ. 2016 Nov;20(4):213-217. Abstract

AIM: To explore the factors that might affect the patterns of interaction amongst dental students that can be found

in asynchronous online discussion fora. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: It is a qualitative study that involved the

participation of 71 dental students (42 male and 29 female) who belong to one academic year. Students were

participated in asynchronous online discussion fora as a part of a blended oral surgerycourse that involved both

face-to-face lecture and an online learning environment using the Blackboard learning management system.

Qualitative analysis of students' pattern of discussion was performed using Transcript Analysis Tool. RESULTS:

The total number of postings was 410. Sixty-seven of 71 students participated in the discussion by writing posts,

whereas all of the students had accessed all of the postings. A positive correlation between imposing vertical

questions and the number of non-referential and referential statements was observed. Regarding horizontal

questions, a positive correlation was observed with the number of referential statements, whilst there was a negative correlation with the number of non-referential statements.CONCLUSION: Asynchronous online discussion

fora that are integrated as a part of a whole pedagogical practice may provide an opportunity for promoting

learning, especially when consideration is given to the structure of problems, timely feedback by tutors and

supportive strategies within the discussion threads.

6. Fadl AN, ElTekeya MM, Dowidar KL, Mokhles N, El Tantawi MM. Effect of Tooth Mousse on Streptococcus

Mutans in the Plaque of High Caries-risk Preschool Children: A Triple-Blind, Randomized Clinical Trial. Pediatr

Dent. 2016 Jul;38(4):300-4.

11

7. Khalid Hassan, Maha El-Tantawi, Adel Alagl et al. Sensitivity and specificity of subgingival bacteria in

predicting preterm birth- a pilot cohort study. Int J Hlth Sci. 2017 Oct-Dec; 10(4):533-41.

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: Preterm birth (PTB) increases the risk of adverse outcomes for new born

infants. Subgingival bacteria are implicated in causing PTB. The aim of the present study was to assess the accuracy

of some subgingival gram positive and gram negative bacteria detected by routine lab procedures

in predicting PTB. METHODOLOGY: Pregnant Saudi women (n= 170) visiting King Fahad hospital, Dammam, Saudi

Arabia, were included in a pilot cohortstudy. Plaque was collected in the 2nd trimester and screened

for subgingival anaerobes using Vitek2. Pregnancy outcome (preterm/full term birth) was assessed at

delivery. Sensitivity, specificity and positive and negative likelihood ratios were calculated for the

identified bacteria to predict PTB. RESULTS: Data about time of delivery was available for 94 subjects and 22

(23.4%) had PTB. Three gram negative and 4 gram positive subgingival bacteria had sensitivity ≥ 95% with two of

each having negative likelihood ratios ≤0.10. Three gram positive bacteria had specificity > 95% with only one

having positive likelihood ratio >2. CONCLUSION: Subgingival bacteria identified using readily available lab

techniques in the plaque of pregnant Saudi women in their 2ndtrimester have useful potential to rule out PTB.

8. Elnour M, Khabeer A, AlShwaimi E. Evaluation of root canal morphology of maxillary second premolars in a

Saudi Arabian sub-population: An in vitro microcomputed tomography study. Saudi Dent J. 2016 Oct;28(4):162-

168.

Abstract

AIM: To investigate the root canal morphology of maxillary second premolars in a Saudi Arabian subpopulation

using microcomputed tomography (micro-CT). METHODOLOGY: Micro-CT analysis was performed on 100

maxillary second premolars. The anatomy of each tooth (number of roots, canals, orifices, and apical foramina, and

the presence of apical deltas and accessory canals) was analyzed from reconstructed three-dimensional images.

RESULTS: The most common morphology was a single root (67%), followed by two roots (30%), and three roots

(3%). Regarding the canal morphology, most teeth (65%) contained two canals, followed by 30% with one canal,

and 5% with three canals. One orifice was observed in 55% of teeth, and two orifices were detected in 45% of

teeth. According to the Vertucci classification, the most common canal types were IV and V (both found in 23% of

teeth), followed by type I (17%), type III (9%), type II (7%), and type VII (2%). Additional types that were

inconsistent with the Vertucci classification were recorded in 19% of teeth. CONCLUSION: The root canal

morphology of maxillary second premolars in the Saudi Arabian subpopulation is complex and requires cautious

evaluation prior to endodontic treatment.

9. Farooq I, Moheet IA, AlShawimi E. The cavity cutting efficiency of a BioglassTM and alumina powder

combination utilized in an air abrasion system. Bull. Mater. Sci 2016 Oct; 39(6):1531-36.

Abstract

This study investigated the attempt to replace alumina in the air abrasion system with an alternative material that

is effective at cutting and also has remineralization potential. The powder samples were randomized into three

groups: group 1—alumina (composed of aluminium and oxygen), group 2—45S5 (composed of 45% silica, 24.5%

calcium oxide, 24.5% sodium oxide and 6% phosphorus pentoxide in weight percentage) and group 3—alumina +

45S5. Thirty human enamel blocks and microscope glass slides of 0.5 mm thickness were randomly divided into these three groups. The time taken to cut a hole through the glass slide and for the cutting of human enamel blocks

was recorded, the cutting time was fixed at 15 s. The depths of the cavities were measured using a periodontal

probe and the enamel blocks were then analysed by scanning electron microscope (SEM). The mean time taken to

cut a hole through the microscope glass slide was 2.96, 23.01 and 3.02 s for groups 1, 2 and 3, respectively. After

cutting the human enamel blocks, the mean cavity depths produced were measured to be 2.5, 1.0 and 2.0 mm for

groups 1, 2 and 3, respectively. The SEM micrographs revealed that the cavities formed by 45S5 were more conical

in shape, whereas cavities produced by alumina and alumina + 45S5 were more cylindrical. The combined

use of alumina and 45S5 has demonstrated a promising cutting efficiency and it has the potential to

achieve effective cutting with the possibility of the remineralization.

12

in shape, whereas cavities produced by alumina and alumina + 45S5 were more cylindrical. The combined use of

alumina and 45S5 has demonstrated a promising cutting efficiency and it has the potential to achieve effective

cutting with the possibility of the remineralization.

10. Al-Eraky MM, Marei HF. Medical professionalism: When in Rome,… Romans should help visitors. Med Teach.

2016;38(2):214.

Abstract: Letter to Editor (No abstract available)

11. Khalid H, Syed MR, Iqbal H, Rehman IU, Khan AS. Monomer leaching and degree of conversion of bioactive

dental composites. Dent Mater. 2016 Oct;32(1):e61-e62.

Abstract

Purpose/Aim: Recently, bioactive materials based dental composites have gained importance due to

dual effect of bioactivity and better physical properties. In dental composites it is considered that

unreacted monomer left inside the polymeric structure can be leached out and cause destructive effects

on body tissues both locally and systemically. Therefore the aim of this study is to evaluate the elution of

dental monomer and degree of conversion from experimental bioactive flowable and packable

composites and compared with commercial bulkfil and experimental posterior composites. Materials

and Methods: Experimental dimethacrylate based resin composites samples which were reinforced with

nano-hydroxyapatite (nHA) fillers were prepared. Filler particles were surface treated with a silane

coupling agent. Two experimental composites were prepared with concentration of 30% and 45% wt/wt

of silanized nHA and considered as flowable and packable composites, where resin without filler was

used as control. Two commercially available nano-hybrid bulkfill and micro-hybrid composite resin-

based composites i.e. SDR (DENTSPLY, Germany) and Filtek P60 (3 M ESPE, Germany) respectively were

also evaluated in this study. The experimental and commercial composites sample discs were prepared in

4mm × 4 mm molds by using standard method of photoactivation. Degree of conversion of these samples

was evaluated by using ATR-FTIR (Thermo Nicolet P6700 USA) technique. Multivariate (Principal

Component Analysis, PCA) and cluster analysis were performed to differentiate the variances. To evaluate

the release of monomer and structural changes of polymerized samples were investigated by immersion

in deionized water at 37 °C for periodic time intervals (i.e. 1, 7 and 28 days) and were assessed by HPLC

(Schmadzu, Japan; with C-18 column) and FTIR respectively. Results: Degree of conversion of

experiment resins both 30 and 45%wt/wt showed highest conversion rate after polymerization and the

sequence was Experiment resins (60%) > SDR (56%) > Filtek P60 (50%). HPLC results showed that both

commercial and experimental composites released TEGDMA, UDMA and BisGMA monomer, where,

maximum release was observed on day 1 which was subsequently reduced on day 7 and negligible

release was observed on day 28. However, significant difference in elution of monomer between these

resins based composites (RBCs) was observed. SDR showed significantly high elution of monomers

compared to other composite and structural changes were also observed more in SDR compared to

others. Conclusions: Release of monomer from dental composite after polymerization has potential to

cause adverse effect on oral tissues. There is need to develop new dental composite with ideal properties

and minimum release of monomer having appropriate interlocking of matrix chains.

12. Gad MM, Rahoma A, Al-Thobity AM, ArRejaie AS. Influence of incorporation of ZrO2 nanoparticles

on the repair strength of polymethyl methacrylate denture bases. Int J Nanomedicine. 2016 Oct

27;11:5633-5643.

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Repeated fracture of the denture base is a common problem in prosthodontics, and it

represents a nuisance and a time sink for the clinician. Therefore, the possibility of increasing repair

strength using new reinforcement materials is of great interest to prosthodontists.

13

strength using new reinforcement materials is of great interest to prosthodontists. AIM OF THE STUDY: This study

aimed to evaluate the effects of incorporation of zirconia nanoparticles (nano-ZrO2) on the flexural strength and

impact strength of repaired polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) denture bases. MATERIALS AND METHODS: One

hundred eighty specimens of heat-polymerized acrylic resin were fabricated (90 for each test) and divided into

three main groups: one control group (intact specimens) and two groups divided according to surface design (45°

bevels and butt joints), in which specimens were prepared in pairs to create 2.5 mm gaps. Nano-ZrO2 was added to

repair resin in 2.5 wt%, 5 wt%, and 7.5 wt% concentrations of acrylic powder. A three-point bending test was used

to measure flexural strength, and a Charpy-type test was used to measure impact strength. Scanning electron

microscopy was used to analyze the fracture surfaces and nano-ZrO2 distribution. The results were analyzed with a

paired sample t-test and an unpaired t-test, with a P-value of ≤0.05 being significant. RESULTS: Incorporation of

nano-ZrO2 into the repair resin significantly increased flexural strength (P<0.05). The highest value was found in

the bevel group reinforced with 7.5% nano-ZrO2, whereas the lowest value was found in the butt group reinforced

with 2.5% nano-ZrO2. The impact strength values of all repaired groups were significantly lower than those of the

control group (P<0.05). Among repaired groups, the higher impact strength value was seen in the butt group

reinforced with 2.5% nano-ZrO2. The bevel joint demonstrated mainly cohesive failure, whereas the butt joint

demonstrated mainly adhesive failure. CONCLUSION: Incorporation of nano-ZrO2 into the repair resin improved

the flexural strength of repaired denture bases, whereas it decreased impact strength, especially with high nano-

ZrO2 concentrations.

13. Alagl AS, Bedi S, Almas K. Phytosolution for Enterococcus Faecalis in Endodontics: An Update. Oral Health and

Dental Management 2016 Oct; 15(5):322-36.

Abstract

Background: The key reason for failure of an endodontic treatment is incomplete debridement and sterilization

because of complex root canal system anatomy which makes elimination of micro-organisms difficult. In spite of

the chemical and mechanical debridement of root canals, studies have reported that some microbes like Enterococcus faecalis thrive in periapical lesions, triggering a failure of an endodontic treatment. Considering the

vanity, adverse effects and toxicity issues of synthetic medications, the herbal alternatives have been sought for

endodontic irrigation. Objectives: To review the current evidence on the efficacy of different plant derivatives

against Enterococcus faecalis. Materials and Methods: Studies were identified through systematic search of the

following electronic databases: PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Google Scholar and Cochrane database of

systematic reviews. The results from the relevant published literatures are discussed. Summary and Conclusion:

The conclusion drawn from in vitro and in vivo studies seems encouraging and as proven in clinical studies,

Propolis and Salvadora persica have been proven to be efficacious against Enterococcus faecalis. More laboratory

and clinical research is required to assess the safety, efficacy and biocompatibility of other plant extracts, before

finally recommending them as alternative endodontic irrigants.

14. El Shazley N, Hamdy A, Abou El-Eneen, El Backly R, Saad M, Essam W, Moussa H, El Tantawi M, Jain H, Marei M.

Bioglass in Alveolar Bone Regeneration in Orthodontic Patients(Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial). JDR Clin

Translat Res 2016 Oct;1: 244-55.

Abstract

This study was designed as a split-mouth randomized controlled clinical trial to evaluate the effects of a novel

bioactive glass scaffold—tailored amorphous multiporous (TAMP)—for the preservation of alveolar bone

following tooth extraction in class II orthodontic patients. TAMP scaffolds were prepared and sterilized. Patients

were screened for eligibility, and 6 patients accounting for 14 extraction sockets were included in this stage.

Sockets were randomly allocated to either control (left empty) or test (grafted with TAMP scaffold particles).

Follow-up was done after 1, 2, 4, 8, and 12 to 17 wk with digital periapical radiographs to evaluate changes in

crestal bone height and bone mineral density (BMD), 3-dimensional volumetric analysis of impression casts, and

histologic analysis of core biopsies. Furthermore, alveolar bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells were cultured

from control and test sockets following biopsy retrieval to evaluate the ability of TAMP bioactive glass scaffolds to

recruit host progenitor cells. Results showed that sockets grafted with TAMP bioactive glass scaffolds better preserved height after 3 mo where mesially 57.1% of test cases showed preservation of socket height, compared

with 28.6% of control cases. Distally, this was 42.9% of test cases versus none of the control cases. Regarding BMD, the test sides had higher BMD in all 3 sections of the socket, with the greatest reduction in

BMD found in the coronal third. Results were not statistically significant. Histologically, sockets

grafted with TAMP bioactive glass scaffolds showed a distinct pattern of bone healing

14

IN PRESS PUBLICATIONS

1. Muhammad Ashraf Nazir. Prevalence of periodontal disease, its association with systemic diseases and

prevention. International Journal of Health Sciences 2017; In Press.

2. Mohamed Saber A Ali, Fahad A Al-Harbi. Posterior Palatal Seal Area Established in Conventional and

CAD/CAM Fabricated Complete Denture Techniques: Clinical Case Study. Journal of Dental and Craniofacial

Research 2017; In Press.

3. Haji IU, Sodhi SP, Al-Jandan BA, Jaber M. Guerin sign in midfacial fractures. Br J Oral Maxillofac Surg. 2017; In

Press.

4. Al-Harbi FA, Ayad NM, ArRejaie AS, Bhagat HA, Baba NZ. Effect of Aging Regimens on Resin Nanoceramic

Chairside CAD/CAM Material. J Prosthodont. 2017; In Press.

5. El Tantawi M, Sadaf S, AlHumaid J. Using gamification to develop academic writing skills in dental

undergraduate students. Eur J Dent Educ 2017; In Press.

6. Adel AlAgl. Periodontal abcess as a possible oral clinical sign in the diagnosis of undiagnosed Diabetes mellitus

in a dental clinical set up – A 7 year cross sectional study. Journal of Investigative and Clinical Dentistry 2017; In

Press.

7. Ahmad M Al-Thobity. Fabrication of an Implant-Supported Fixed Provisional Prosthesis Using a Duplicate

Denture: An Alternative Technique. Journal of Prosthodontics 2017; In Press.

8. Ahmad M. Al-Thobity, Talal Alnassar, Robert J Flinton. Conservative Approaches to Replace Congenitally

Missing Lateral Incisor. New York State Dental Journal 2017; In Press.

9. A. ArRejaiei, H. Alalawi, F. Al-Harbi, R. Abualsaud, AM. Al-Thobity. Internal Fit and Marginal Gap Evaluation

of Zirconia Copings Using MicroComputerized Tomography: An in-vitro Analysis. International Journal of

Periodontics & Restorative Dentistry 2017; In Press.

10. Kellesarian SV, Yunker M, Malmstrom H, Almas K, Romanos GE, and Javed F. Male infertility and dental health

status: the missing link? A systematic review. American Journal of Men's Health 2017; In Press.

11. Almas K, Koci E. Laser applications in dentistry: an evidence-based clinical decision-making approach. Book

Chapter: Lasers in Dentistry. Hindawi Publications 2017; In Press.

12. Abdullah A Alsani, AbdulRahman BalHaddad, Muhammad Ashraf Nazir. Vertical Root Fracture: A Case Report

and Review. Italian Journal of Endodontics 2017; In Press.

IN PRESS PUBLICATIONS

preserved height after 3 mo where mesially 57.1% of test cases showed preservation of socket height, compared with 28.6% of control cases. Distally, this was 42.9% of test cases versus none of the control cases. Regarding BMD,

the test sides had higher BMD in all 3 sections of the socket, with the greatest reduction in BMD found in the

coronal third. Results were not statistically significant. Histologically, sockets grafted with TAMP bioactive glass

scaffolds showed a distinct pattern of bone healing characterized by vertical trabeculae and large vascularized

marrow spaces with sockets showing corticalization. Volumetric analysis showed a better preservation of socket

contour with TAMP bioactive glass scaffolds. TAMP bioactive glass scaffolds appeared to enhance the recruitment

of stem cells from the grafted sockets. In conclusion, TAMP scaffolds appear to better preserve alveolar bone

following extraction and allow for a more active bone modeling and remodeling process(ClinicalTrials.gov

identifier:NCT01878084).

15

Research makes you stand out in crowd

13. Alnassar T, Vohra F, Abualsaud H, Al-Thobity AM, Finton RJ. Efficacy of Novel Cleansing Agent for the

Decontamination of Lithium Disilicate Ceramics- A Shear Bond Strength Study. J Adhes Sci Technol. 2017; In Press.

14. Al-Thobity AM, Farooq I, Khan SQ. Effect of software facilitated teaching on final grades of dental students in a

dental morphology course. Saudi Med J. 2017; In Press.

15. Irfan Ahmed. Altered Passive Eruption & Active Secondary Eruption: Differential diagnosis and management.

International Journal of Esthetic Dentistry 2017; In Press.

16. Al-Thobity A, Kutkut A, Almas K. Microthreaded Implants and Crestal Bone Loss: A Systematic Review. J Oral

Implantol. 2017; In Press.

17. Badr A. Al-Jandan, Faiyaz Ahmed Syed, Ahed Zeidan, Hesham F. Marei , Imran Farooq. Pharyngeal pack

placement in minor oral surgery: A prospective randomized controlled study. Ear, Nose & Throat journal 2017; In

Press.

18. Abdul Samad Khan. Vibrational Spectroscopy of Selective Dental Restorative Materials. Applied Spectroscopy

Reviews 2017; In Press.

For further information and comments, please contact

Vice Deanship for Postgraduate Studies and Scientific Research

College of Dentistry, University of Dammam Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Tel: 013-33-31510 Email: vdpg.dent@uod.edu.sa