Development and assessment of an objective method of colour change measurement for acrylic denture base resins

SUMMARY Current standard specifications for the laboratory evaluation of denture base materials require subjective assessment of colour stability. This study evaluates a new objective measurement technique for translucent denture base materials, by comparing quantitative data with the results obtained from a standard subjective method. Preliminary work on three representative commercial acrylic materials resulted in the selection of a white background for the quantification of colour change of these translucent materials. One half of each sample was exposed to artificial sunlight for 24 h.
The colour of both exposed and unexposed resin was measured on the CIE L*a*b* scale using a photoelectric colorimeter. Significant changes in the b* and E* values (P < 0.001) were observed following light exposure. Objective data for a wide range of commercial materials were compared with the results of a subjective evaluation and it was shown that a change in b* of 1.5 units was discernable subjectively by eye for 100% of the cases. It is suggested that this method and limit value could form the basis of a new objective colour change specification for polymeric dental materials.     

The in vitro fertilisation programme at Tygerberg Hospital and the University of Stellenbosch. Five years' experience, April 1983-January 1988

The results of the in vitro fertilisation programme at Tygerberg Hospital for the period April 1983 to January 1988 are presented. Of the 1117 laparoscopies performed, 825 patients reached the transfer stage. A live-birth rate of 9.3% was achieved. The pregnancy rate after transfer of 4 embryos was 25.9% compared with 15.4% after 2 embryos and 10.8% after 3 embryos (P = less than 0.0001). The multiple pregnancy rate was 2.8% in the group receiving 2 embryos and 11.7% and 10.4% in those receiving 3 and 4 embryos, respectively. Of the 77 successful pregnancies (90 babies), 1 baby died at 34 weeks' gestation as the result of abruptio placentae due to preeclampsia and 1 cot death occurred. The only congenital abnormality encountered was a cleft palate.     

Informative value of special examinations in establishing spreading of sigmoid colon and rectal cancer

On the basis of the experience with treatment of more than 500 patients with sigmoid and rectal cancer, the informative value of the instrumental methods of investigation used for more precise definition of a stage of the disease is analysed. A scheme for rational examination of the patients is suggested.     

Early complex treatment of fractures of leg bones and peripheral nerve injuries

A retrospective analysis of results of treatment of 104 patients with fractures of long tubular bones associated with injuries of peripheral nerves has shown complex therapy to be necessary. Main components of this treatment were biogenic stimulators, vitamin B12, spasmolytic and dehydration drugs in combination with electrophoresis with potassium iodide and thermal procedures. Rapid disturbance of conductivity of nerve trunks after trauma should be followed by revision of the given segment of the extremity in order to remove hematoma and make reposition of displaced fragments of the bone, which can provide recovery of the disturbed function of the nerve.     

Cutaneo-fascial flaps in restorative and reconstructive surgery of burns

On the basis of experience with the treatment of more than 1,500 patients with post-burn defects, deformities, and trophic ulcers, the authors distinguished types of affection in which the traditional methods are ineffective. These 133 patients were subjected to plasty with ++cutaneo-fascial grafts; the zones of donor areas from which the grafts are taken are determined. Plasty with ++cutaneo-fascial grafts is indicated in defects of the face, deformity of the neck, total adduction contracture of the arm, defect of the breast, and affections of the hand, leg, and foot. Concrete grafts and the site from which they are taken for restoration of certain regions of the body are suggested. ++Cutaneo-fascial grafts make it possible to restore the shape, function, and the skin of the involved region.     

Functional diagnosis of early arthroses of the extremities

Patient history and clinical examination are important for the diagnosis of degenerative joint disease. Here the typical statements of a patient suffering from early osteoarthritis are described and, as far as possible, explained. The joint in question must be systematically examined. Furthermore, the neighboring joints and soft-tissue structures, i.e., muscles, tendons etc., should be examined and evaluated with respect to their importance in hindering the functional chain. The neuroreflectory mechanisms involved herein are described.