Vice Deanship for

Postgraduate Studies

and Scientific Research

RESEARCH BULLETIN Vol 2, Issue 1 (Jan-Mar 2015) Initiative of the Research Unit of College of Dentistry, University of Dammam

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In this issue

An introduction to Oral Biology research laboratory…2

Research news………………………………………………………….3

Recent faculty publications……………………………………….4

In press publications……………………………………………….10

Contact details……………………………………………………….11

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An Introduction to Oral Biology Research Laboratory

LOCATION: Old building 3rd floor Room # 393

WORKING HOURS: 8 am – 4 pm (Sunday-Thursday)

Introduction

In the Oral Biology Research Laboratory most of the histopathological and

immunohistochemical staining can be performed for the diagnosis of oral lesions and

for research projects in this field. The purpose of this laboratory is divided in 2 main

parts: (1) Support the clinics and provide the histopathological diagnosis for any biopsy

taken in the clinics of the College of Dentistry (COD), and (2) To process any

histopathological or immunohistochemical methodology for any research projects done

in the COD. In this laboratory all histopathological and immunohistochemical staining

that are commonly used in the field of Oral Pathology, Diagnosis and Medicine can be

done.

Objectives:

Establish a state-of-the art biological research laboratory.

Process biopsies (soft or hard tissues) and provide all types of staining.

Encourage research in the field of oral biology.

Support existing studies in subjects closely allied to dental materials.

List of equipment:

1-Immunohistochemical Staining System.

2- Routine staining (special stain can be done if material is provided).

3- Saw microtome (for any material including metals at thickness from 10 to 40 µm).

4- Centrifuge (tube volume: 1 to 10 ml).

5- Research microscope with high resolution camera.

6- Stereo Microscope with high resolution camera.

7- Refrigerator (from -5º C to -20º C). (-80º C was requested)

8- Incubator (aerobic).

9- Shaker (open air 250 ml).

10- Sensitive weighing machine (with reliability up to 0.001g).

11- Ph meter.

Lab coordinator: Dr. Aiman Ali

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The Vice Deanship for Postgraduate Studies and Research at the College of Dentistry organized the first Research

Seminar for the faculty members on 24th Feb, 2015. The seminar was attended by the Dean, Vice Deans, Chairs of

Departments, and all faculty members at the college. Dr. Emad Alshwaimi, the Vice Dean for PG studies and

Research started the proceedings by giving an overview of the efforts of the research unit members. Afterwards,

two members of the faculty, Dr. Maha ElTantawi (PDS dept.) and Dr. Imran Farooq (BDS Dept) presented their

research which was followed by a discussion.

Topics of the presented research were

1) Social network analysis and curriculum connectedness & integration (Dr. Maha ElTantawi)

2) In vitro dentin tubule occlusion and remineralization competence of various toothpastes (Dr. Imran Farooq)

Dr. Emad AlShwaimi Dr. Imran Farooq

Research Seminar Series

RESEARCH EXCELLENCY AWARD

We would like to congratulate Dr. Asim Al-

Ansari, Dr. Adel Alagl, Dr. Emad AlShwaimi

and Dr. Ahmed Al-Thobity on receiving

‘Research Excellency Award’ for their

following recent publications

Gaffar BO, Alagl AS, Al-Ansari AA. The prevalence,

causes, and relativity of dental anxiety in adult

patients to irregular dental visits. Saudi Med J.

2014;35(6):598-603.

Cirillo N, AlShwaimi E, McCullough M, Prime SS.

Pemphigus vulgaris autoimmune globulin induces

Src-dependent tyrosine-phosphorylation of

plakophilin 3 and its detachment from desmoglein 3.

Autoimmunity. 2014 Mar;47(2):134-40.

Al-Thobity AM, Wolfinger GJ, Balshi SF, Flinton RJ,

Balshi TJ. Zygomatic implants as a rehabilitation

approach for a severely deficient maxilla. Int J Oral

Maxillofac Implants. 2014 Nov-Dec;29(6):e283-9.

RESEARCH NEWS

PARTICIPATION OF INTERNS AND STUDENTS IN

NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL SYMPOSIUMS

1- Group (Members: M. Alfarea*, H. d. Alqurashi, T. Alyami, M.

Al-Kadi, B. Albassam, M. Nazir) presented a poster titled

"Effects of Smoking on Oral Health Among Male Teenagers" at

the International Association of Dental Research (IADR) session

at Boston, USA (11th-14th of March, 2015).

2. Group Members: Hatim Al-Qurashi, Majed Al-Farea, Theeb

Al-Quria, Mohammed Al-Kadi, Bassam Al-Bassam have been

nominated for the project titled "Oral health status and

smoking effects on oral health in high school students in

Dammam/Al-Khobar and Dhahran, KSA" which will be

presented at the “Sixth Student Scientific Conference”.

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1. Alagl AS, Bhat SG. Ascorbic acid: New role of an age-old micronutrient in the management of periodontal

disease in older adults. Geriatr Gerontol Int. 2015 Mar;15(3):241-54.

Abstract

To review the new role of an age-old micronutrient - ascorbic acid - in the management of periodontal disease. Articles pertaining to the topic were searched in PubMed and other search engines from year 1974 to April 2014 with the following key words: "ascorbic acid," "ascorbate," "vitamin C," "periodontal disease," "gingivitis," "periodontitis," "anti-oxidants" and "elderly." Balanced nutrition is an essential factor in the elderly. Modification of nutritional requirement is important to overcome the effect of an unbalanced diet in older individuals as a result of several external and internal host-associated factors. Micronutrient requirements as aging advances could change and require due attention. Ascorbic acid and its relationship with periodontal disease are very well known. However, recent changes in the concept of understanding the pathogenicity has led to a new path of therapeutic intervention with ascorbic acid in many chronic diseases. Oxidative stress with its associated burden might alter the disease process. In the era of "periodontal medicine, " the impact of remote tissue changes on systemic disease has to be taken into serious consideration. Deficiency of nutritional impact on the host, with micronutrient vitamin C detailed in this review with sources, absorption, interaction and its relationship with systemic disease, and thereby the impact on periodontal disease. Ascorbic acid plays an important role in the aging process, and in the maintenance of periodontal health in the elderly.

2. Cirillo N, AlShwaimi E, Prime SS, Al-Hayani A. CREATING: a sustainable plan for biomedical higher education in

Saudi Arabia. Phase I. Int J Health Sci (Qassim). 2015 Jan-Mar;9(1):94-103.

Abstract

Biomedical higher education has been acquiring increasing importance worldwide, including the Kingdom of Saudi

Arabia, and effective strategies to improve outcomes and competitiveness are key for academic success. The plan

presented here is divided into two major phases. Phase 1 (Communication, Research governance, Education

planning, Accreditation) deals mainly with adopting a systematic approach to academic activities according to the

current international standards. In other words, the aim is to re-organise what is already in place, taking into

account current guidelines and strategies that help improve quality of education and research. It is suggested that

this is not necessarily to be achieved by major investments but, rather, by a more imaginative and structured work

plan. In Phase 2 (Translational practice, Implementation, Networking,Growth), higher education institutions are

expected to invest in new strategic resources, to establish strong reciprocal links with international academic

partners and industry, and to shift their attention to the hot topics and current academic challenges, leading the

way in translational education models and pioneering cutting-edge research.

RECENT FACULTY PUBLICATIONS (Most recent first)

Upcoming Conference

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3. Hyun P, Preston CB, Al-Jewair TS, Park-Hyun E, Tabbaa S. Patient compliance with Hawley retainers fitted with the SMART(®) sensor: A prospective clinical pilot study. Angle Orthod. 2015 Mar;85(2):263-9. Abstract Objective: To evaluate the compliance of patients while wearing maxillary Hawley retainers embedded with SMART microsensors. Methods: The sample population consisted of 22 patients who were divided into an experimental (group A) and a control group (group B). Group A was informed that they would be monitored through the use of SMART microsensors, while group B was not informed that they would be monitored. After the delivery of the retainers (T0), the patients were evaluated at T1 and T2, represented by 6- and 12-week follow-up visits, respectively. At T1, group B was informed of our ability to monitor their compliance. Both groups continued wearing their retainers during T1 to T2. Results: During T0-T1, Group A wore their retainers for an average of 16.3 hours (SD 4.39), while group B wore their appliances for an average of 10.6 hours (SD 5.36, t  =  2.426, P  =  .027). Although group B increased their retainer wear by 0.5 hours/day from T1 to T2, this increase was not statistically significant. Conclusions: Despite significant differences being noted between the two groups at T1, group B did not show significant mean changes in their wear time before and after becoming aware of the use of the SMART microsensor. 4. Khabeer A, Whitworth J, Rolland S. Polymerization kinetics of resin cements after light activation through fibre posts: an in vitro study. Int Endod J. 2015 Mar;48(3):261-7. Abstract Aim: To measure the polymerization of light-cured (Variolink Veneer, VLV) and dual-cured (Variolink II, VLII) resin luting cements after lightactivation through different lengths of fibre post ex vivo. Methodology: Degree of conversion after prolonged direct light activation (PLA) [12 min after LED light activation for 3 min] was determined using ATR-FTIR. Models were then produced to allow samples of VLV and VLII (n = 5 each group) to be light-activated through 3, 6 and 9 mm lengths of fibre post (Fiber Lux). Degree of conversion was assessed by ATR-FTIR and expressed as a percentage of the degree of conversion achieved after PLA. Data were analysed using anova and Tukey's test (P < 0.05). Results: Mean [SD] degree of conversion for VLV and VLII after PLA was 57.97% [1.51] and 54.71% [3.77], respectively. Light activation of VLV through a 3 mm post produced 81.62% of the PLA value, compared with 71.03% for the 6 mm and 46.04% for the 9 mm post. Conversion afteractivation through 9 mm posts was significantly less than through 3 mm and 6 mm posts (P < 0.05). For VLII, activation through a 3 mm post produced 66.51% of the PLA value, compared with 54.38% for the 6 mm and 41.56% for the 9 mm post. A significant decrease in degree of conversion was noted for VLII as post length increased (P < 0.05). Conclusions: The degree of conversion for VLV reduced after light activation through 9 mm posts when compared to 3 mm and 6 mm posts, whilst the degree of conversion for VLII decreased with every increase in post length. 5. Al-Ansari AA, El Tantawi MM. Predicting academic performance of dental students using perception of educational environment. J Dent Educ. 2015 Mar;79(3):337-44. Abstract Greater emphasis on student-centered education means that students' perception of their educational environment

is important. The ultimate proof of this importance is its effect on academic performance. The aim of this study was

to assess the predictability of dental students' grades as indicator of academic performance through their

perceptions of the educational environment. The Dundee Ready Educational Environment Measure (DREEM)

questionnaire was used to assess dental students' perceptions of their educational environment at the University of

Dammam, Saudi Arabia, in academic year 2012-13. Aggregate grades in courses were collected at the end of the

semester and related to levels of perception of the five DREEM domains using regression analysis. The response

rate was 87.1% among all students in Years 2-6. As the number of students perceiving excellence in learning

increased, the number of students with A grades increased. Perception of an environment with problems in the

atmosphere and social life increased the number of students with D and F grades. There was no relation between

any of the DREEM domains and past academic performance as measured by GPA. This study concludes that these

students' academic performance was affected by various aspects of perceiving the educational environment.

Improved perception of learning increased the number of high achievers, whereas increased perception of

problems in atmosphere and social life increased the number of low achievers and failing students.

atmo

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6. Al-Ansari AA, El Tantawi MM. Comparison of three evidence-based practice learning assessment methods in dental curricula. J Dent Educ. 2015 Feb;79(2):146-56. Abstract

Incorporating evidence-based practice (EBP) training in dental curricula is now an accreditation requirement

for dental schools, but questions remain about the most effective ways to assess learning outcomes. The purpose of

this study was to evaluate and compare three assessment methods for EBP training and to assess their relation to

students' overall course grades. Participants in the study were dental students from two classes who received

training in appraising randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and systematic reviews in 2013 at the University of

Dammam, Saudi Arabia. Repeated measures analysis of variance was used to compare students' scores on

appraisal assignments, scores on multiple-choice question (MCQ) exams in which EBP concepts were applied to

clinical scenarios, and scores for self-reported efficacy in appraisal. Regression analysis was used to assess the

relationship among the three assessment methods, gender, program level, and overall grade. The instructors had

acceptable reliability in scoring the assignments (overall intraclass correlation coefficient=0.60). The MCQ exams

had acceptable discrimination indices although their reliability was less satisfactory (Cronbach's alpha=0.46).

Statistically significant differences were observed among the three methods with MCQ exams having the lowest

overall scores. Variation in the overall course grades was explained by scores on the appraisal assignment and MCQ

exams (partial eta-squared=0.52 and 0.24, respectively), whereas score on the self-efficacy questionnaire was not

significantly associated with overall grade. The results suggest that self-reported efficacy is not a valid method to

assess dental students' RCT appraisal skills, whereas instructor-graded appraisal assignments explained a greater

portion of variation in grade and had inherent validity and acceptable consistency and MCQ exams had good

construct validity but low internal consistency.

7. Abuohashish HM, Ahmed MM, Al-Rejaie SS, Eltahir KE. The antidepressant bupropion exerts alleviating

properties in an ovariectomized osteoporotic rat model. Acta Pharmacol Sin. 2015 Feb;36(2):209-20.

Abstract

Aim: Numerous reports implicate depression as a risk factor for impaired bone mass and micro-architecture, and

the use of several antidepressants were found to increase the incidence of osteoporotic fractures. The aim of the

present study is to investigate the possible alleviating effects of the antidepressant bupropion on the femoral bones

of ovariectomized (OVX) rats as a model of osteoporosis. Methods: The OVX animals were treated with bupropion

(30 and 60 mg·kg-1·d-1) for six weeks. Bone turnover biomarkers and inflammatory cytokines were determined

using ELISA techniques. Inductively coupled plasma mass spectroscopy (ICP-MS) was used to determine the effect

on femoral bone mineral concentration. Changes in bone cortical and trabecular morphometric parameters were

determined using micro-CT scan and histopathology. Results: Estrogen deficiency elevated the level of bone

turnover biomarkers as well as inflammatory cytokines. Femoral bone mineral concentrations were reduced in

OVX rats. Moreover, cortical and trabecular morphometric parameters and the histopathology of femoral bones

were severely altered by ovariectomy. Treatment with bupropion inhibited the increase in bone turnover

biomarkers and inflammatory cytokines. These effects were observed most robustly with the treatment of

bupropion at the higher dose of 60 mg·kg-1·d-1. Additionally, the animals treated with bupropion expressed normal

mineral values in the femoral bones. The altered morphometric parameters and histopathology of the femoral

bones were markedly attenuated by bupropion treatment. Conclusion: The demonstrated osteo-protective

properties of bupropion may be due to its ability to inhibit osteoclastogenesis-inducing factors and inflammation,

which stabilize the osteoclasts and decrease bone matrix degradation or resorption.

8. Naik RR, Bhat SG, Carnelio S, Natarajan J, Bhat M. The diagnostic dilemma of a granulomatous gingival

enlargement. Clinical Advances in Periodontics 2015 Feb; 5(1):62-66.

Abstract

Introduction: The oral cavity is considered an easily accessible window to the body. The mouth is frequently

involved in conditions that affect multiple organs. In many instances, oral involvement precedes the appearance of

many other symptoms or lesions. A complete examination of the oral cavity provides a gateway for an accurate

diagn

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diagnosis and precise management of many systemic conditions. Gingival enlargement is one of the varied

manifestations of many systemic diseases. Here, a case report of a gingival enlargement is presented that provided

information for the diagnosis of post-primary pulmonary tuberculosis. Case Presentation: A 62-year-old female

presented with a persistent gingival enlargement of 6-month duration, which was non-responsive to periodontal

therapy. A complete general examination with the help of additional diagnostic aids provided the diagnosis of post-

primary pulmonary tuberculosis. Conclusion: Clinicians should be aware of the unusual forms of common

diseases, which will aid in early diagnosis and proper patient management.

9. Al-Harbi FA, Ayad NM, Saber MA, ArRejaie AS, Morgano SM. Mechanical behavior and color change of facial

prosthetic elastomers after outdoor weathering in a hot and humid climate. J Prosthet Dent. 2015 Feb;113(2):146-

51.

Abstract

Statement of problem: A common reason for replacing a maxillofacial prosthesis is the deterioration of its

properties. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to compare the effect of weathering in

a hot and humid climate on the tear strength, tensile strength, modulus of elasticity, elongation percentage,

and color of 3 maxillofacial materials. Material and Methods: Three silicone materials were tested. Specimens

were exposed to outdoor weathering for 6 months in a hot and humidenvironment. Tear and tensile strengths

were measured with a universal testing machine before and after outdoor weathering. Color change was evaluated

by recording L*, a*, and b* values at base line and after outdoor weathering with a spectrophotometer. The ΔE, ΔL*,

Δa*, and Δb* of the specimens were calculated. Data were analyzed with 2-way ANOVA and the post hoc Scheffé

test (α=.05). Results: For all tested elastomers, outdoor weathering decreased the tear strength and modulus of

elasticity values significantly (P<.001). Also,weathering reduced percentage elongation values significantly (P<.05).

Tensile strength values were significantly reduced for TechSil S25 and MED-4210 specimens only (P<.05). The

effect of weathering on the color of pigmented specimens was greater than the acceptable value (ΔE>3.0).

Thecolor change (ΔE) of pigmented specimens ranged from 4.31 to 6.68. A-2186 silicone elastomer experienced

the greatest color changes (P<.05). Within nonpigmented specimens, none of the tested silicone elastomers showed

significant color changes (P>.05). Conclusions: Outdoor weathering in a hot and humid climate adversely affected

the properties of silicone elastomers. The heat-polymerized TechSil S25 elastomer showed

better mechanical durability and color stability compared with the room-temperature polymerized A-2186 and

MED-4210 materials. TechSil S25 showed the greater values of tear and tensile strengths and elongation of

specimens exposed to outdoor weatheringconditions. It also showed the least amount of color change among the

pigmented specimens exposed to outdoor weathering.

10. Vohra F, Al-Kheraif AA, Almas K, Javed F. Comparison of crestal bone loss around dental implants placed in

healed sites using flapped and flapless techniques: a systematic review. J Periodontol. 2015 Feb;86(2):185-91.

Abstract

Background: The aim of the present systematic review is to compare the crestal bone loss (CBL) around dental

implants placed in healed sites using flapped and flapless surgical techniques. Methods: The focused question was,

"Does flapped and flapless surgical technique influence CBL around dental implants placed in healed sites?"

Databases were searched from 1975 up to and including May 2014 using different combinations of the following

keywords: "crestal bone loss"; "dental implant"; "surgery"; "flap"; and "flapless." Unpublished data, experimental

studies, letters to the editor, review articles, case reports, commentaries, and articles published in languages other

than English were excluded. In all studies, the test group comprised implants placed usingflapless surgery, and the

control group, implants placed after reflection of a full-thickness mucoperiosteal flap. Results: Ten clinical studies

were included. In five studies, CBL around implants was comparable between the test and control groups. In four

studies, implants in the test group showed significantly less CBL compared with the control group. In one study,

CBL was significantly higher in the test group than the control group. Conclusion: CBL around dental implants

placed in healed sites using flapped and flapless techniques is comparable.

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11. Aiman A Ali, Fahad A Al Harbi. The minimum inhibitory concentration of different candidal disinfecting

agents. Saudi J Med Med Sci 2015 Jan;3:26-32.

Abstract

Purpose: Despite the availability of a large number of commercial denture cleansing products, only a few are used

by wearers of dentures. This may be due to negligence on the part of the wearers of dentures and or the high cost

of the products. We, therefore, felt inspired to study the antifungal effect of different materials usually available in

the kitchen. Materials and Methods: One hundred and sixty resin acrylic samples were prepared and divided into

three groups of 50 samples each and immersed into variable concentrations of: Sodium chloride (Group I), Sodium bicarbonate (Group II), and vinegar (Group III). In addition, 10 samples were immersed into water as a control

group (Group IV). Minimum inhibitory concentration and the minimum immersion time needed were studied for

eachgroup. Results: The solutions were only found to be effective against Candida albicans in concentrations

higher than 50 ml/200 ml, 10 g/200 ml and 5 g/200 ml of vinegar, sodium bicarbonate and sodium chloride

respectively. The same concentrations were more effective when acrylic resin plates were immersed for 8 hours

rather than 1 hour (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Sodium chloride, sodium bicarbonate and vinegar are not strong

enough as denture cleansing agents in low concentrations. However, high concentrations used for 8 hours might be

helpful for the user of dentures.

12. H Al-Alawi , A Al-Jawad, M Al-Shayeb, A Al-Ali, K Al-Khalifa. The association between dental and periodontal

diseases and sickle cell disease. A pilot case-control study. Saudi Dent J. 2015 Jan;27(1):40-43.

Abstract

Objective: This is a pilot case-control study conducted to investigate the prevalence of dental caries and periodontal

disease and examine the possible association between oral health deterioration and SCD severity in a sample of

Saudi SCD patients residing in the city of Al-Qatif, Eastern Province, Saudi Arabia. Materials and methods: Dental

examination to determine the Decayed, Missing and Filled Teeth index (DMFT), Community Periodontal Index

(CPI), and plaque index system were recorded for 33 SCD patients and 33 age and sex-matched controls in the Al-

Qatif Central Hospital, Qatif, Saudi Arabia. Self-administered surveys used to assess socio-economic status; oral

health behaviors for both SCD patients and controls were recorded. In addition, the disease severity index was

established for all patients with SCD. SPSS data analysis software package version 18.0 was used for statistical

analysis. Numerical variables were described as mean with a standard deviation. Results: Decayed teeth were

significantly more in individuals with ages ranging from 18 to 38 years with SCD compared to the control group (p

= 0.036) due to oral hygiene negligence. The mean number of filled teeth was significantly lower in individuals with

SCD when compared to the control group (p = 0.015) due to the lack of appropriate and timely treatment reflected

in the survey responses of SCD patients as 15.2% only taking oral care during hospitalization. There were

differences between the cases and controls in the known caries risk factors such as income level, flossing, and

brushing habit. The DMFT, CPI, and plaque index systems did not differ significantly between the SCD patients and

the control group.

13. Hassan KS, Alagl AS. A comparative study of bovine bone used alone and in combination with transforming

growth factor-beta for the treatment of periodontal osseous defects in humans. Saudi J Med Med Sci 2015 Jan;3:33-

39.

Abstract

Objectives: Transforming growth factor-betas (TGFβs) are multifunctional growth factors with a broad range of

biological activities in various cell types in many different tissues. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the

treatment of intrabony defects with anorganic bovine bone mineral matrix combined with TGFβ-1 with the use of

anorganic bovine bone alone. Materials and Methods: Thirty-two sites from sixteen patients were selected using

a split-mouth study design for each patient, determined randomly through a biased coin randomization. One site

received a mucoperiosteal flap, and the osseous defect was filled with the combined therapy (Group 1). The other

site treated was with anorganic bovine bone alone and served as a control (Group 2). All the treated sites were

cover

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covered with a bioabsorbable collagen membrane. The clinical parameters and radiographic follow-up

examinations were recorded after 3, 6, 9, and 12 months. Results: Clinically, there was a statistically significant

gain in the clinical attachment level (+5.03 ⎕ 0.14 mm) and a statistically significant reduction of pocket probing

depth (−5.16 mm ⎕ 0.13) for Group 1 sites compared to sites in Group 2 (P ≤ 0.01). In addition, there were

significant differences in bone density and a significant decrease of marginal bone loss after the combined therapy

compared with the use of anorganic bovine bone alone (P ≤ 0.01). Conclusion: The use of anorganic bovine bone

mineral matrix combined with TGFβ-1 seemed to be effective in the treatment of intrabony defects. This showed an

improvement in the clinical outcome of periodontal therapy superior to the use of anorganic bovine bone on its

own.

14. Narayanaraopeta U, Alshwaimi E. Preclinical endodontic teaching. A survey of Saudi dental schools. Saudi Med

J. 2015 Jan;36(1):94-100.

Abstract

Objectives: To provide an overview of the general curricula in preclinical endodontic training from 6

established dental schools in Saudi Arabia. Methods: This study was conducted in January 2014 including

only schools that had more than 2 groups of student graduates prior to the study. We included

2 dental schools from the Central region, one from Qassim region, one from the Makkah region (west), one from

Abha region (south west), and one from the eastern region. An internet-based questionnaire was sent to the course

directors of preclinical endodontics department of the 6 schools. The survey comprised 20 questions that

examined various aspects of preclinical endodontics. Results: It was demonstrated that a significant number of

faculty members had Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degrees (n=21), Master's degrees (n=15), and Saudi board

certifications (n=8). We determined that the faculty to student ratio varied from 2:1 to 8: 1 among the colleges. The

participating dental schools were found to teach the Step Back, as well as the Step Down techniques for root canal

preparation. Five of the 6 schools implemented the use of nickel titanium rotary instruments.

All dental schools predominantly used radiographs as the means of the working length determination. Conclusion:

The curriculum for preclinical endodontics in Saudi Arabia is comparable to that followed in most European

countries. A more comprehensive survey is needed that would involve more schools to formulate generalized

guidelines for preclinical endodontic training in Saudi Arabia.

15. Farooq I, Ali S. A cross sectional study of gender differences in dental anxiety prevailing in the students of a

Pakistani dental college. Saudi J Dent Res. 2015 Jan;6(5):21-25.

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of this cross sectional study was to assess the level of dental anxiety prevailing in the

dental students and to compare the anxiety levels reported by female and male dental students of Sardar Begum

Dental College, Peshawar, Pakistan. Methods: Corah’s dental anxiety scale (DAS) questionnaires (in English

language) were distributed among the entire dental students present at the day of study (194 students, females:

120, males: 74). DAS had four questions assessing the level of anxiousness with a maximum possible achievable

score of 20. Five options were available for each question. Scoring was performed as A = 1, B = 2, C = 3, D = 4

and E = 5. A score between 4 and 8 showed no anxiety, 9 and 12: moderate anxiety, 13 and 14: high anxiety and

between 15 and 20 showed severe anxiety (phobia). Data were analyzed statistically. Results: Overall response

rate was 86% (n = 167, females: 108, males: 59). Female dental students presented with higher DAS than male

students and the difference was also statistically significant (P < 0.05). Pre-clinical students (1st–2nd year) were

found to be more anxious than clinical students (3rd–4th year). Conclusions: Female dental students and pre-

clinical students were found more anxious as compared to male dental students and clinical students respectively.

Counseling sessions and exposure therapy (exposure of clinical procedures in this case) at an early stage of dental

training could be helpful in reducing the anxiety levels.

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IN PRESS PUBLICATIONS

16. Amal J Fatani, Salim S Al‑Rejaie, Hatem M Abuohashish, Abdullah Al‑Assaf, Mihir Y Parmar, Mohammad S Ola,

Mohammed M Ahmed. Neuroprotective effects of Gymnema sylvestre on streptozotocin-induced diabetic

neuropathy in rats. Exp Ther Med 2015;9:1670-1678.

Abstract

The application of traditional medicine for diabetes and associated complications, such as diabetic neuropathy

(DN), has received increasing attention. The aim of the present study was to investigate the potential ameliorative

effect of Gymnema sylvestre (Gs) in a rat model of DN. Diabetes was induced via a single intraperitoneal injection of

streptozotocin (STZ; 60 mg/kg). Treatment with Gs extract (50 or 100 mg/kg/day) began two weeks following the

administration of STZ and was continued for five weeks. Pain threshold behavior tests were performed subsequent

to the five-week Gs treatment period. In addition, the serum levels of glucose, insulin and proinflammatory

cytokines, including tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-6, were determined. Furthermore,

the sciatic tissue levels of nitric oxide, thiobarbituric acid reactive substances and reduced glutathione were

determined, as well as the activity levels of superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase and glutathione

reductase. Levels of insulin-like growth factor (IGF), nerve growth factor (NGF), TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6 were also

assessed in the sciatic tissue. In addition, the sciatic nerve tissue samples were analyzed for histopathological

alterations. The diabetic rats exhibited apparent reductions in the paw-withdrawal (31%; P<0.01) and tail-flick

latencies (38%; P<0.05). Furthermore, the diabetic rats demonstrated an evident elevation in serum and sciatic

levels of proinflammatory cytokines. Measured oxidative stress biomarkers were significantly altered in the sciatic

nerve tissue of the diabetic rats. Treatment with Gs attenuated diabetes-induced modifications with regard to the

levels of serum glucose, insulin and proinflammatory cytokines. In the sciatic nerve tissue, the diabetes-induced

alterations in IL levels and oxidative stress biomarkers were significantly improved in the Gs-treated rats.

Furthermore, the reduction in the sciatic tissue expression levels of IGF and NGF was also ameliorated by Gs

treatment. Histological analysis indicated that Gs corrected the sciatic tissue in the diabetic rats. Therefore, the

results demonstrated that the neuroprotective effect of Gs may be associated with the inhibitory effect on the

excessive activation of inflammatory molecules and oxidative stress mediators.

1. Hesham F. Marei, Badr A. Al-Jandan, Khalifa S. Al-Khalifa, Naif N. Al-Masoud, Mohamed M. Al-Eraky, Gohar

Wajid. Assessment of Dental Students’ Psychomotor Skills Using Oral Surgery Simulation Models. Saudi J Med Med

Sci. 2015; In Press.

2. Al-Ansari A, El-Tantawi M, Abdelsalam M, Al-Harbi F. Academic advising and student support: help- seeking

behaviors among Saudi dental undergraduate students. Saudi Dent J. 2015; In Press.

3. Badr A. Al-Jandan, Abdullah Al-Harkan, Julia Pompura, Letitia Z. Lim, Jaime S. Guerrero, Hesham F. Marei,

Imran Farooq. Evaluation of deproteinized bone mineral (DBM) as an onlay bone-graft in the rabbit mandible.

Saudi J Dent Res. 2015; In Press.

4. Badr Al-Jandan. Combined management of large aggressive central giant cell granuloma of the mandible: A case

report. Saudi J Dent Res. 2015; In Press.

5. Tantawi MM, AbdelAziz WE. Assessment of the Accuracy of Two Dental Screening Methods Used in a School

Setting. Oral Health Prev Dent. 2015, In Press.

6. Thikriat S. Al-Jewair. Meta-analysis on the mandibular dimensions effects of the MARA appliance in patients

with Class II malocclusions. The Angle Orthodontist 2015, In Press.

7. Majeed A, Farooq I, Grobler SR, Moola MH. In vitro evaluation of variances between real and declared

concentration of hydrogen peroxide in various tooth-whitening products. Acta Odontol Scand. 2015; In Press.

11

For further information and comments, please contact

Vice Deanship for Postgraduate Studies and Scientific Research College of Dentistry, University of Dammam

Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Tel: 013-33-31510

Email: vdpg.dent@uod.edu.sa

8. Nasser Al-Shahrani, Abdulaziz Al-Amri, Fahad Hegazi, Khalid Al-Rowis, Abdullah Al-Madani, Khalid S Hassan.

Prevalence of premature loss of primary teeth and its impact on malocclusion in the Eastern Province of Saudi

Arabia. Acta Odontol Scand. 2015; In Press.

9. Aws ArRejaie, Fahad Al-Harbi, Adel S Alagl, Khalid S Hassan. Platelet rich plasma gel combined with bovine-

derived xenograft for the treatment of dehiscence around immediately placed conventionally loaded dental

Implants in human: Cone beam computed tomography and 3-D images evaluation. International journal of Oral &

Maxillofacial Implants 2015; In Press.

10. Khalid S Hassan, Adel Al-Agal, Adel I Abdel-Hady, Wael M Swelam, Reda F Elgazzar . Mandibular Tori as

Bone Grafts: an Alternative Treatment for Periodontal Osseous Defects: Clinical, Radiographic, and Histologic

morphology Evaluation. J Contemp Dent Pract. 2015; In Press.

11. Khalifa S. Al-Khalifa. Use of the International Caries Detection and Assessment System by Dental Students at

the University of Dammam, Saudi Arabia. Saudi J Dent Res 2015; In Press.

12. Suresh CS, Gameel MO. Oro-facial-digital syndrome: A report of two cases. J Oral Maxillofac Surg Med Pathol.

2015; In Press.

13. Al-Jewair TS, Al-Jasser R, Almas K. Periodontitis and obstructive sleep apnea's bidirectional relationship: a

systematic review and meta-analysis. Sleep Breath. 2015; In Press.

14. Salim S. Al-Rejaie, Hatem M. Abuohashish, Mohammed M. Ahmed, Aws S. Arrejaie, Abdulaziz M. Aleisa, Shakir

D. AlSharari. Telmisartan inhibits hyperalgesia and inflammatory progression in a diabetic neuropathic pain model

of Wistar rats. Neurosciences 2015; In Press.

15. Mohamed Mostafa Al-Eraky, Hesham Fathi Marei. Professionalism in medical education: A review article.

Advances in Health Professions Education 2015; In Press.

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