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Biomedical subjects

M J Gleason

Publications and source records attributed to M J Gleason.

29 records · Page 2Linked to original sources
PubMed1991

Effectiveness of dental office instrument sterilization procedures.

To evaluate instrument sterilization procedures in Minnesota, biological indicators were used to monitor 406 sterilizers in 381 dental offices. Findings suggest a general improvement in instrument performance over that of a decade ago, but sterilization failure rates are still too high. Sterilizer operator errors are a major cause of sterilization failures. BIs are useful in monitoring sterilization performance only when sterilization procedures are performed consistently and competently by well-trained staff using adequately maintained equipment.

Bacillus subtilis↗
PubMed1991

Epidermal toxicity of disinfectants.

The purpose of the present study was to investigate the capacity of various disinfectant chemicals to cause epithelial toxicity with repeated exposure. The abdominal area of 3-month old, experimental ICR/CD-1 mice was initially shaved, denuded with a depilatory agent and allowed to rest for 24 hours. Commercial preparations of iodophors, bleach, synthetic phenols, phenolic/alcohols, and glutaraldehydes were then sprayed onto the exposed abdominal tissue 8 times/day (0.8 ml spray) for 2 consecutive days. The applied disinfectant was allowed to dry between procedures. In comparison to controls sprayed with distilled water, each disinfectant stimulated some degree of epidermal changes. Resultant multiple brownish lesions showed local thickening and hardening. Histologically, epidermal changes ranged from mild hypertrophy to extensive epithelial erosion. A few inflammatory cells were occasionally detected in the epithelium. When present, dermal reactions ranged from a mild inflammation to focal areas of collagen degeneration. The results indicated that iodophors stimulated the mildest reactions, followed by the synthetic phenol preparations, bleach, phenolic/alcohols, and glutaraldehyde sprays. Similar assays using glutaraldehyde immersion sterilants/disinfectants produced marked tissue destruction.

Animals↗
PubMed1990

Controversies in infection control.

Dentistry has made great strides in infection control over the past 10 years. An effective asepsis program is part of "the standard of care" in dental practice as we approach the twenty-first century. Several areas of dental infection control are undergoing change as new information is obtained, thereby providing points for discussion and some controversy. An effective vaccine to protect against hepatitis B viral infection is available but has met with indifference on the part of many. This readily available protection should be obtained by all health care providers. Surface disinfection is another area of controversy. A variety of chemical agents with differing properties are available for use in dentistry. Many of these are effective as disinfectants but have limited cleansing action, and this must be considered in their application. The practice of prosthodontics also presents numerous opportunities for cross-contamination. The sterilization and disinfection of dental impressions, prostheses, appliances, and a variety of plastic and wooden items provide a challenge for future research as newer products and techniques are developed. Infection control has literally been placed in the hands of health professionals. We, our patients, and families will continue to benefit from our positive efforts in this area.

Communicable Disease Control↗
PubMed1988

Cleaning and disinfectant properties of dental surface disinfectants.

The appropriate use of disinfectants for operatory surfaces constitutes a major component of a routine infection control protocol. Both the cleaning and the disinfection abilities of the various available products are important to consider when selecting a surface disinfectant. This study shows the importance of initial surface cleaning as a mandatory first step in surface asepsis. All manufacturers emphasize this in their written directions by stating that the products should be used on precleaned surfaces. Based on the inability to remove dried organic material and a lack of effective antimicrobial activity in the presence of accumulated bioburden, preparations containing high concentrations of alcohols (greater than or equal to 70%) should not be used as the sole agent for routine precleaning and disinfection. Properly diluted iodophor, sodium hypochlorite, and complex phenol preparations are superior in comparison with other disinfectants in accomplishing the initial precleaning of surfaces.

Communicable Disease Control↗
PubMed1987

Stability of safety glasses during sterilization and disinfection.

Awareness of the necessity for physical barriers as essential components of an infection control program for dental practice has led to increased use of gloves, masks, and protective eyewear. Because eyewear is not disposable, it could serve as a source of cross-contamination and should be disinfected between patients. This study investigates the optical stability of two types of safety glasses after various sterilization/disinfection procedures.

Communicable Disease Control↗
PubMed1985

Comparisons of various salivary parameters in smokers before and after the use of a nicotine-containing chewing gum.

This study was designed to compare various salivary parameters between smokers and non-smokers and to determine the influence of a nicotine-containing chewing gum (used to aid in quit-smoking efforts) upon these same parameters. At the baseline examination, subjects were assigned to one of three groups: non-smokers who did not utilize any gum, smokers provided a nicotine-containing gum, and smokers provided a placebo gum. Saliva was collected from all subjects and analyzed for acidogenicity and buffer pH as well as for levels of thiocyanate, lactoperoxidase, lysozyme, lactoferrin, and secretory IgA. After 15 weeks of gum usage, saliva was again collected from each subject and the identical analyses performed. Significant differences were observed between smokers and non-smokers with regard to three parameters: The saliva of smokers contained greater concentrations of thiocyanate and lower concentrations of lactoferrin, at the baseline examination and after the 15-week test period. In addition, the CO content of alveolar air was higher in smokers at both examination periods. In contrast, the use of the nicotine gum per se had no effect on any of the test parameters.

Adult↗