High-resolution ultrasound imaging of human skin in vivo by using three-dimensional ultrasound microscopy.

Observing the morphology of human skin is important in the diagnosis of skin cancer and inflammation and in the assessment of skin aging. High-frequency ultrasound imaging provides high spatial resolution of the deep layers of the skin, which cannot be visualized by optical methods. The objectives of the present study were to develop a three-dimensional (3-D) ultrasound microscope and to observe the morphology of normal human skin in vivo.

Imaging of sebaceous glands of human skin by three-dimensional ultrasound microscopy and its relation to elasticity.

High frequency ultrasound imaging has realized high resolution in vivo imaging of the biological tissues at a microscopic level. Human skin structure, especially sebaceous glands at the deep part of the dermis, was observed by three-dimensional ultrasound microscopy with the central frequency of 120 MHz. The visco-elasticity and surface sebum level of the observed region were measured by established testing devices.

Influence of condylar guide inclination on condylar positioning during clenching.

The relationship between the steepness of the articular eminence and the condylar positioning during clenching was investigated in 19 volunteers with natural dentitions. The condylar positioning during maximal voluntary contraction was measured using a mandibular movement analysis system with six degrees of freedom. The sagittal condylar guide inclination was also measured using the same apparatus.

[Condylar positioning during clenching related to loss of posterior occlusal support].

Purpose: In the last two decades, the Shortened Dental Arch (SDA) concept has been introduced as a treatment strategy for posterior edentulous patients. This study investigated whether the SDA concept applies to all posterior edentulous patients.

Study Selection & Results: In the first study, objective evaluations for the temporomandibular joint (radiographic evaluation and measurement of condylar positioning during maximal voluntary contraction) were performed in patients with unilaterally posterior missing teeth.

[Relationship between condylar displacement during clenching and condylar guide inclination].

Purpose: Many studies have reported the relationship between facial morphology and stomatognathic functions. The steepness of the articular eminence is an important morphological factor to determine the mandibular movement or mandibular positioning. The present study analyzed the relationship between the condylar displacement during clenching and the condylar guide inclination related to simulated loss of posterior occlusal support.

[Application of slightly acidic hypochlorous acid water to the dental field--setting expansion and compressive strength of dental gypsum mixed with slightly acidic hypochlorous acid water].

Purpose: This study investigated both the setting expansion and compressive strength of dental gypsum mixed with slightly acidic hypochlorous acid water for the prevention of hospital infection.

Methods: Slightly acidic hypochlorous acid water (PURESTER Mp-240B, Morinaga Milk Industry) was used to mix each of three types of gypsum (model plaster, dental stone and high strength dental stone), and both the setting expansion and compressive strength of these gypsum products were analyzed in comparison with those mixed with tap water.

Results: 1.