The motivation for change from problem alcohol and heroin use

This paper provides an overview of the first study in Switzerland on spontaneous remission from substance abuse, conducted in 1988. After a rigorous screening process, 60 practically treatment-free remitters could be identified. While 14 of the 30 alcohol cases reduced their consumption almost to abstinence, all but two heroin remitters stopped their consumption altogether. No selection bias could be detected when comparing the groups studied with clinic populations, survey data and police records. The qualitative analysis of the collected extensive life histories led to a typology of the autoremission process. The motivation to change, the implementation of the decision, the maintenance and the negotiation of a new identity or meaning in life represent the three major stages. This paper focuses on the first stage and the role of negative vs positive experiences in setting off subsequent changes in alcohol or heroin consumption. The variation in the motivational background is illustrated by a close look at the rich life history accounts as well as by quantitative data on life events and cognitive prerequisites of change. Methodological drawbacks of this first exploratory study, such as recall problems and a narrow definition of addiction excluding psychological problems, are discussed and the necessity of future prospective studies is underlined.     

Hardness testing of some fissure-sealing materials

ABSTRACT— The mechanical properties of fissure-sealing materials are of significant importance for their durability, i.e. their wear resistance. One of the methods of evaluating a material's resistance to attrition is to apply a hardness test. In the present investigation, the surface hardness of some fissure-sealing materials was tested. Sealants made from diluted composite materials and with inclusion of inorganic filler particles appeared to have a considerable higher surface hardness than the other sealing materials tested.     

Iron staining of the acquired enamel pellicle after exposure to tannic acid or chlorhexidine: preliminary report

Abstract – Extrinsic discoloration of teeth following a large consumption of tannin-containing beverages or a prolonged use of chlorhexidine mouthrinses is a well known observation. Tannins as well as chlorhexidine are denaturing agents. Based on preliminary studies revealing the presence of iron in chlorhexidine discolored pellicle material, the ability of iron to stain the integument after pretreatmentwith the two denaturants was studied in a human model. The denaturing effect of an acidic environment was also included. Enamel slabs fixedto acrylie appliances were carried in the oral cavity and alternately exposed to the test solutions in different sequences in vitro. Pretreatment with chlorhexidine or tannic acid led to marked discolorations upon iron application during 5-d tests, whereas the compounds individually had no such effect. A large content of the metal was found in the stained material. Stannous fluoride appeared to reduce the formation of the pigments, and strong oxidation completely bleached the established color. Possible mechanisms underlying the phenomena observed are discussed.     

Microleakage along composite restorations in human premolars after treatment with different cleansing agents

Abstract – Cavities prepared on extracted human premolars were treated with different cleansing agents and by different procedures. The cavities were filled with a composite restorative material and microleakage was assessed by recording the penetration of basic fuchsin dye. Only acid agents which removed the smeared layer, producing an etch pattern on the enamel cavity walls, were able to prevent microleakage.