Digital reconstruction of teeth using near-infrared light.

Cone beam computed tomography has demonstrated value by offering enhanced conceptualization of features of teeth in the 3D space. However, these systems require higher effective radiation doses to image teeth. Previous research from our group has used non-ionizing near-infrared (NIR) light for diagnosing demineralization and caries in human tooth enamel.

Clinical validation and assessment of a modular fluorescent imaging system and algorithm for rapid detection and quantification of dental plaque.

Background: Significant numbers of adults and children have untreated plaque due to poor oral hygiene and consequently suffer from associate dental and systemic diseases.

Methods: A handheld device equipped with 405 nm light-emitting diodes was constructed to examine the prevalence of red fluorescence signatures associated with dental plaque. This device was used for in vivo imaging of all four incisors and all four canines of twenty-eight consenting human subjects.

Near-Infrared Imaging for Detecting Caries and Structural Deformities in Teeth.

2-D radiographs, while commonly used for evaluating sub-surface hard structures of teeth, have low sensitivity for early caries lesions, particularly those on tooth occlusal surfaces. Radiographs are also frequently refused by patients over safety concerns. Translucency of teeth in the near-infrared (NIR) range offers a non-ionizing and safe approach to detect dental caries.

Bridging the digital divide by increasing computer and cancer literacy: community technology centers for head-start parents and families.

This article describes the establishment of two community technology centers affiliated with Head Start early childhood education programs focused especially on Latino and African American parents of children enrolled in Head Start. A 6-hour course concerned with computer and cancer literacy was presented to 120 parents and other community residents who earned a free, refurbished, Internet-ready computer after completing the program. Focus groups provided the basis for designing the structure and content of the course and modifying it during the project period.

Utilities of the post-anesthesia state derived by the standard gamble method in surgical patients.

Background: There are no published utilities for the post-anesthesia state obtained by the standard gamble method (SG).

Methods: We obtained utilities for postoperative pain, nausea, vomiting, urinary retention and myalgia from 100 adults prior to elective surgery using SG.

Results: 20% of volunteer participants could not demonstrate a satisfactory understanding of the SG process.