Presentation and physical therapy management of upper cervical instability in patients with symptomatic generalized joint hypermobility: International expert consensus recommendations.

Experts in symptomatic generalized joint hypermobility (S-GJH) agree that upper cervical instability (UCI) needs to be better recognized in S-GJH, which commonly presents in the clinic as generalized hypermobility spectrum disorder and hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. While mild UCI may be common, it can still be impactful; though considerably less common, severe UCI can potentially be debilitating. UCI includes both atlanto-occipital and atlantoaxial instability.

Volumetric modulated arc therapy for total body irradiation: A feasibility study using Pinnacle treatment planning system and Elekta Agility™ linac.

A study was undertaken to explore the use of volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) for total body irradiation (TBI). Five patient plans were created in Pinnacle using nine 6 MV photon dynamic arcs. A dose of 12 Gy in six fractions was prescribed.

Control of brushing variables for the in vitro assessment of toothpaste abrasivity using a novel laboratory model.

Objectives: Design and construct a tooth-brushing simulator incorporating control of brushing variables including brushing force, speed and temperature, thereby facilitating greater understanding of their importance in toothpaste abrasion testing methodologies.

Methods: A thermostable orbital shaker was selected as a base unit and 16- and 24-specimen brushing rigs were constructed to fit inside, consisting of: a square bath partitioned horizontally to provide brushing channels, specimen holders for 25 mm diameter mounted specimens to fit the brushing channels and individually weighted brushing arms, able to support four toothbrush holders suspended over the brushing channels. Brush head holders consisted of individually weighted blocks of Delrin, or PTFE onto which toothbrush heads were fixed.

The erosive potential of flavoured sparkling water drinks.

Objective: The potential role of acidic drinks in the aetiology of dental erosion is well recognized. Whilst the wide-scale consumption of bottled waters is unlikely to contribute significantly to erosion, the role of flavoured sparkling water drinks is unclear. The aim of this study was to determine the pH, titratable acidity and in vitro erosive potential of a selection of these drinks drawn from the UK market to identify what dietary advice would be appropriate in relation to their consumption.

Erosive effect of a new sports drink on dental enamel during exercise.

Purpose: To compare the potential erosive effect of a prototype carbohydrate-electrolyte drink (PCE) with a neutral control (water) and a commercially available carbohydrate-electrolyte drink (CCE) during exercise.

Methods: : Nineteen healthy adults (male, N = 16; female, N = 3) took part in this single blind, three-way crossover study. Subjects were given each of the three drinks according to a randomization schedule, approximately balanced for first-order carryover effects.