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Biomedical subjects

G Mott

Publications and source records attributed to G Mott.

9 recordsLinked to original sources

Systemic manifestations of periodontitis in the non-human primate.

This report describes our findings regarding the potential contribution of periodontitis to atherosclerotic processes using a nonhuman primate model. The goal of the investigations was to target general mechanisms which could describe the association of these disease processes, including: (i) systemic translocation of bacteria/products during periodontitis; (ii) alterations in systemic inflammatory biomarkers during periodontitis; and (iii) the relationship of periodontitis to serum lipids/lipoproteins. Increases in serum endotoxin (e.g. LPS) during ligature-induced periodontitis were observed in these animals. We determined serum levels of various acute phase reactants and chemokines (e.g. CRP, alpha 1-antitrypsin, haptoglobin, fibrinogen, IL-8). A number of these host factors were significantly increased during gingivitis and/or periodontitis. Finally, we observed specific changes in serum lipid levels (cholesterol, triglycerides, HDL, LDL) and lipoproteins (apoA-I) during periodontitis, which were exacerbated by exposure of the animals to a diet with elevated fat content. Thus, we have described systemic manifestations of periodontitis that include detection of bacterial products, inflammatory biomarkers, and dyslipoproteinemia consistent with an increased atherogenic risk.

Animals↗

Intrinsic reinnervation--myth or reality?

A clinical and electromyographic study of major nerve transections at the wrist in 22 patients has shown that electrical recovery nearly always occurs in the intrinsic muscles, despite the absence of clinically detectable function. There appears to be a level of electrical reinnervation above which clinically detectable intrinsic muscle power is usually present. This level would appear to be 50% of the contralateral maximum evoked muscle action potential; above this the "myth" of clinical recovery becomes a reality.

Adolescent↗

A pilot study of a method of estimating the number of functional eccrine sweat glands in irradiated human skin.

Following stimulation with pilocarpine, the secretion from eccrine sweat glands produces characteristic imprints in hardening silicone polymers applied to the skin. This permits an accurate determination of the numerical density of functional eccrine glands in irradiated skin which can be compared to non-irradiated skin. A description of this inexpensive, noninvasive, and quantitative technique is presented as well as preliminary results determined in six normal subjects and 28 irradiated patients. Eleven patients, with atrophy and telangiectasia after radiotherapy to the skin to a high dose, were found to have no functional eccrine glands by this technique. A range of results from normal numbers of eccrine glands through partial and, rarely, complete loss was observed in patients given lower doses and in whom the skin was visually normal. When the irradiated side outside the boost area in 16 breast cancer patients who received postoperative radiotherapy was compared to an equivalent area on the untreated, contralateral side, 11 showed a greater than 50% reduction in the density of functional eccrine glands. The method appears to be a sensitive, quantitative assay for a permanent change in skin and so ought to facilitate meaningful comparison of different regimens of radiotherapy. Further studies are required to determine the dose-response relationship, latency and progression of the observed changes.

Breast↗

Impedance monitoring for subcutaneous free flap transfers.

The assessment of thoracic blood flow by electrical impedance is a well-established technique. In an application of this a small electrode array has been developed in which an alternating electric current is passed through a subcutaneous free flap and the induced voltage across a small volume measured. A graphical display of this changing voltage illustrates the pulsatile flow through the flap, allowing continuous assessment of perfusion on a beat by beat basis. The electrode array is such that it can be placed in close contact with muscle without interface problems and can assess its viability. It is non-invasive and easily removed. We have found this accurate, easily interpreted by inexperienced staff, and a considerable reassurance in the postoperative period.

Humans↗

Sensory threshold and conductance testing in nerve injuries.

Two electrical methods of assessing nerve function have been developed and have proved useful in clinical practice. Their role has been established in the diagnosis of injury, prognosis and the assessment of progress following repair. They provide an easily performed, objective measurement of nerve function. An indication of regeneration can be obtained some months ahead of accepted clinical signs. Failure to regenerate is noted equally early allowing re-exploration and secondary procedures to be undertaken sooner. Patient motivation is enhanced and a strong Doctor/Patient relationship is established by the ability to predict accurately the development of subsequent clinical signs and the extent of eventual nerve recovery.

Follow-Up Studies↗