MDPI AG Acta Medica Okayama 2304-6767 13 12 2025 Effects of miR-128-3p on Renal Inflammation in a Rat Periodontitis Model 577 EN Mohammad Nurhamim Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Yixuan Zhang Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Momoko Nakahara Department of Preventive Dentistry, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Daiki Fukuhara Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Hospital Yosei Nagashima Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Takayuki Maruyama Department of Preventive Dentistry, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Manabu Morita Department of Oral Health, Takarazuka University of Medical and Health Care Daisuke Ekuni Department of Preventive Dentistry, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Objectives: The study aim was to investigate the effects of extracellular vesicles (EVs) derived miR-128-3p on renal inflammation using a rat periodontitis model. Methods: Ten-week-old male Wistar rats were divided into two groups: a control (n = 8) and a lipopolysaccharides (LPS) group (n = 8). The LPS group received LPS (Porphyromonas gingivalis) injection in the gingiva for 7 days. At the end of the experiment, plasma, gingival tissue, and kidney samples were collected. Hematoxylin and eosin staining was performed to evaluate the glomerular tissue injury score. Bioinformatic analysis was conducted to identify potential target genes of miR-128-3p. The reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction was performed to evaluate miR-128-3p, inflammatory, pro-inflammatory cytokine, chemokine and predicting gene’s expression. The control and LPS groups were compared using Welch’s t-test. p-values < 0.05 were considered to indicate statistical significance. Results: The kidney glomerular tissue injury score was significantly higher in the LPS than in the control group. miR-128-3p expression in the LPS group was significantly higher in the gingival tissue and plasma. mRNAs (interleukin [IL]-1β, tumor necrosis factor [TNF]-α, C-X3-C motif chemokine ligand 1 [CX3CL1], and C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 7 [CXCL7]) expression was higher in the kidney of the LPS group. The potential target genes of activin A receptor type I (Acvr1), ribosomal protein S6 kinase B1 (Rps6kb1), and transforming growth factor beta receptor type 1 (Tgfbr1) were significantly lower in the kidneys of the LPS group. Conclusions: EVs-derived miR-128-3p in LPS induced periodontitis may cause kidney inflammation which may be mediated by, Rps6kb1, Tgfbr1, and Acvr1. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

MDPI Acta Medica Okayama 2227-9032 13 5 2025 Efficacy of Oral Intake of Hydrogen-Rich Jelly Intake on Gingival Inflammation: A Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled and Exploratory Randomized Clinical Trial 577 EN Takayuki Maruyama Department of Preventive Dentistry, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Eiji Takayama Department of Oral Biochemistry, Asahi University School of Dentistry Shinichi Tokuno Graduate School of Health Innovation, Kanagawa University of Human Services Manabu Morita Department of Oral Health, Takarazuka University of Medical and Health Care Daisuke Ekuni Department of Preventive Dentistry, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Background/Objectives: Initiation and progression of periodontal disease include oxidative stress. Systemic application of antioxidants may provide clinical benefits against periodontal disease including gingivitis. Recently, a jelly containing a high concentration of hydrogen (40 ppm) was developed. We hypothesized that oral intake of this hydrogen-rich jelly may be safe and effective on gingivitis. This clinical trial was designed to investigate the safety and efficacy of oral intake of hydrogen-rich jelly against gingival inflammation. Methods: Participants with gingivitis were instructed to orally ingest 30 g of hydrogen-rich jelly (experimental group) or placebo jelly (control group) three times a day for 14 consecutive days. The primary outcome of this trial was the percentage of bleeding on probing (BOP) sites. Secondary outcomes were oral parameters, serum reactive oxygen metabolites, antioxidant capacity, oxidative index, concentrations of cytokine (interleukin [IL]-1β, IL-6, IL-10, IL-17, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha) in gingival crevicular fluid, and adverse events. For all parameters, Mann–Whitney U test was used for comparison between experimental and control groups. Analysis of covariance, controlling for baseline periodontal inflamed surface area, was performed to evaluate the association between the effect of the hydrogen-rich jelly and gingival inflammation. Results: In the experiment and control groups, the percentage of sites with BOP and PISA significantly decreased at the end of the experiment compared to the baseline. However, no significant differences were found between groups (p > 0.05). Conclusions: Administration of hydrogen-rich jelly for 14 days decreased gingival inflammation. However, no significant differences were identified compared to the control group. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

MDPI Acta Medica Okayama 2072-6643 16 24 2024 Association Between Change in Prognostic Nutritional Index During Neoadjuvant Therapy and Dental Occlusal Support in Patients with Esophageal Cancer Under Neoadjuvant Therapy: A Retrospective Longitudinal Pilot Study 4383 EN Reiko Yamanaka-Kohno Department of Preventive Dentistry, Division of Dentistry, Okayama University Hospital Yasuhiro Shirakawa Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Mami Inoue-Minakuchi Department of Oral Rehabilitation and Regenerative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Aya Yokoi Department of Preventive Dentistry, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Kazuhiro Noma Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Shunsuke Tanabe Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Naoaki Maeda Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Toshiyoshi Fujiwara Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Manabu Morita Department of Preventive Dentistry, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Daisuke Ekuni Department of Preventive Dentistry, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Background: A high prognostic nutritional index (PNI) is associated with good prognosis in patients with esophageal cancer. However, nutritional status often decreases during neoadjuvant therapy. Functional tooth units (FTUs) provide an index for the status of posterior occlusal support. We have previously reported that low PNI is related to low FTUs. Objectives: The purpose of this study was to retrospectively examine whether the status of occlusal support relates to changes in PNI during neoadjuvant therapy in patients with esophageal cancer. Methods: This study included 34 patients who underwent neoadjuvant therapy before esophagectomy (32 men, 2 women; age, 36-82 years) in 2012 at Okayama University Hospital. Patients were divided into the good occlusal support group (FTUs >= 11, n = 18) or poor occlusal support group (FTUs < 11, n = 16), and changes in PNI during neoadjuvant therapy were investigated. Results: PNI decreased significantly after neoadjuvant therapy, particularly in the good occlusal support group, and became more dispersed after neoadjuvant therapy. Decreases in PNI after neoadjuvant therapy showed a significant positive correlation with good occlusal support by multiple regression analysis (p = 0.03). The proportions of patients provided with nutritional intervention (p = 0.02) or early dental intervention (p = 0.04) were lower in the good occlusal support group than in the poor occlusal support group. Conclusions: Even in patients with esophageal cancer with good occlusal support experienced significant declines in PNI during neoadjuvant therapy, potentially due to delayed nutritional and dental interventions. Early multidisciplinary interventions are thus recommended for all patients, regardless of preoperative dental or nutritional status. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

MDPI Acta Medica Okayama 2227-9032 12 10 2024 Effect of Antimicrobial Photodynamic Therapy on the Tongue Dorsum on Reducing Halitosis and the Duration of the Effect: A Randomized Clinical Trial 980 EN Takayuki Maruyama Department of Preventive Dentistry, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Daisuke Ekuni Department of Preventive Dentistry, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Aya Yokoi Department of Preventive Dentistry, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Junichiro Nagasaki Okayama University Dental School Nanami Sawada Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Hospital Manabu Morita Department of Oral Health Sciences, Takarazuka University of Medical and Health Care Antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a treatment that is gaining popularity in modern clinical medicine. However, little is known about the effect of PDT alone on reducing oral halitosis and the duration of the effect. This trial examined the effect of PDT on the tongue dorsum on reducing oral halitosis and the duration of the effect. This study was approved by the Ethics Committee of Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Okayama University Hospital (CRB20-015), and it was registered in the Japan Registry of Clinical Trials (jRCTs061200060). Twenty-two participants were randomly assigned to two groups: an intervention group and control group. PDT was performed in the intervention group using red laser emission and methylene blue gel on the middle and posterior area of the tongue dorsum. The concentration of volatile sulfur compounds, bacterial count on the tongue dorsum, probing pocket depth, bleeding on probing, and simplified oral debris index score were determined before and 1 week after PDT. The Mann-Whitney U test was used to assess the significance of the differences in each parameter between the two groups. We found that the hydrogen sulfide concentration and bacterial count on the tongue dorsum were decreased in the intervention group, but there was no statistically significant difference between the two groups. These results indicated that performing only PDT on the tongue dorsum may not contribute to reducing halitosis. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

MDPI Acta Medica Okayama 2077-0383 12 7 2023 Nutrients Associated with Sleep Bruxism 2623 EN Naoki Toyama Department of Preventive Dentistry, Academic Field of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Daisuke Ekuni Department of Preventive Dentistry, Academic Field of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Daiki Fukuhara Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Hospital Nanami Sawada Department of Preventive Dentistry, Academic Field of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Miho Yamashita Department of Foods and Human Nutrition, Notre Dame Seishin University Momoe Komiyama Department of Foods and Human Nutrition, Notre Dame Seishin University Takahiko Nagahama Department of Foods and Human Nutrition, Notre Dame Seishin University Manabu Morita Department of Preventive Dentistry, Academic Field of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Background: The purpose of the present research was to identify nutrients related to sleep bruxism and to establish a hypothesis regarding the relationship between sleep bruxism and nutrients. Methods: We recruited 143 Japanese university students in 2021 and assigned them to sleep bruxism (n = 58) and non-sleep bruxism groups (n = 85), using an identical single-channel wearable electromyography device. To investigate nutrient intakes, participants answered a food frequency questionnaire based on food groups. We assessed differences in nutrient intakes between the sleep bruxism and non-sleep bruxism groups. Results: Logistic regression modeling showed that sleep bruxism tended to be associated with dietary fiber (odds ratio, 0.91; 95% confidence interval, 0.83-1.00; p = 0.059). In addition, a subgroup analysis selecting students in the top and bottom quartiles of dietary fiber intake showed that students with sleep bruxism had a significantly lower dietary fiber intake (10.4 +/- 4.6 g) than those without sleep bruxism (13.4 +/- 6.1 g; p = 0.022). Conclusion: The present research showed that dietary fiber intake may be related to sleep bruxism. Therefore, we hypothesized that dietary fiber would improve sleep bruxism in young adults. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

MDPI Acta Medica Okayama 1660-4601 19 21 2022 The Impact of Oral Health Behaviors, Health Belief Model, and Absolute Risk Aversion on the Willingness of Japanese University Students to Undergo Regular Dental Check-Ups: A Cross-Sectional Study 13920 EN Ichiro Sumita Department of Preventive Dentistry, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Naoki Toyama Department of Preventive Dentistry, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Daisuke Ekuni Department of Preventive Dentistry, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Takayuki Maruyama Department of Preventive Dentistry, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Aya Yokoi Department of Preventive Dentistry, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Daiki Fukuhara Department of Preventive Dentistry, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Yoko Uchida-Fukuhara Department of Oral Morphology, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Momoko Nakahara Department of Preventive Dentistry, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Manabu Morita Department of Preventive Dentistry, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Oral health behaviors, risk aversion, and the health belief model are associated with health behaviors. However, there have been few studies that investigated the association between these factors and the willingness to undergo regular dental check-ups. The purpose of this cross-sectional study was to investigate the associations between the willingness of Japanese university students to undergo regular dental check-ups and oral health behaviors, the health belief model, and absolute risk aversion. An analysis was conducted with the cooperation of questionnaire respondents (n = 748) who underwent dental check-ups at Okayama University. The students answered questionnaires on oral health behaviors, the health belief model, absolute risk aversion, and willingness to undergo regular dental check-ups. The logistic regression analysis showed significant positive associations (p < 0.05) between oral health behaviors (use of the inter-dental brush and the dental floss) and the health belief model with the willingness to undergo regular dental check-ups. However, there was no significant association with absolute risk aversion (p > 0.05). These results suggest that willingness to undergo regular dental check-ups was associated with oral health behaviors and the health belief model, but not with absolute risk aversion. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Frontiers Media SA Acta Medica Okayama 2235-2988 12 2022 Features of the oral microbiome in Japanese elderly people with 20 or more teeth and a non-severe periodontal condition during periodontal maintenance treatment: A cross-sectional study 957890 EN Naoki Toyama Department of Preventive Dentistry, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Daisuke Ekuni Department of Preventive Dentistry, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Aya Yokoi Department of Preventive Dentistry, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Daiki Fukuhara Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Hospital Md Monirul Islam Department of Preventive Dentistry, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Nanami Sawada Department of Preventive Dentistry, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Yukiho Nakashima Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Hospital Momoko Nakahara Department of Preventive Dentistry, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Ichiro Sumita Department of Preventive Dentistry, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Manabu Morita Department of Preventive Dentistry, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Introduction<br> The aim of the present study was to characterize the profile and diversity of the oral microbiome of a periodontally non-severe group with >= 20 teeth in comparison with a severe periodontitis group of elderly Japanese people. <br> Methods<br> A total of 50 patients who had >= 20 teeth and aged >= 60 years were recruited, and 34 participants (13 non-severe participants) were analyzed. After oral rinse (saliva after rinsing) sample collection, the V3-V4 regions of the 16S rRNA gene were sequenced to investigate microbiome composition, alpha diversity (Shannon index, Simpson index, richness, and evenness), and beta diversity using principal coordinate analysis (PCoA) based on weighted and unweighted UniFrac distances. A linear discriminant analysis effect size was calculated to identify bacterial species in the periodontally non-severe group. <br> Results<br> The periodontally non-severe group showed lower alpha diversity than that of the severe periodontitis group (p <0.05); however, the beta diversities were not significantly different. A higher relative abundance of four bacterial species (Prevotella nanceiensis, Gemella sanguinis, Fusobacterium periodonticum, and Haemophilus parainfluenzae) was observed in the non-severe group than that in the severe periodontitis group. <br> Conclusion<br> The oral microbiome in elderly Japanese people with >= 20 teeth and a non-severe periodontal condition was characterized by low alpha diversity and the presence of four bacterial species. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

MDPI Acta Medica Okayama 1660-4601 19 15 2022 Relationship between Psychological Stress Determined by Voice Analysis and Periodontal Status: A Cohort Study 9489 EN Takayuki Maruyama Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Academic Field of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Daisuke Ekuni Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Academic Field of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Masakazu Higuchi Department of Bioengineering, Graduate School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo Eiji Takayama Department of Oral Biochemistry, Asahi University School of Dentistry Shinichi Tokuno Department of Bioengineering, Graduate School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo Manabu Morita Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Academic Field of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences In modern society, evaluation and management of psychological stress may be important for the prevention of periodontal disease. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between psychological stress (vitality and mental activity) evaluated by Mind Monitoring System (MIMOSYS) and periodontal status. Forty students of Okayama University underwent the oral examination and self-reported questionnaire on the first day (baseline) and the 14th day (follow-up). Voice recording was performed every day with the MIMOSYS app during the whole study period. The participants completed the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ)-9 and Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) at baseline and at follow-up. Spearman's rank correlation coefficient was used to determine the significance of correlations among variables. The PHQ-9 and BDI scores were negatively correlated with vitality in the morning. Change in vitality in the morning was significantly correlated with changes in periodontal inflammation. Mental activity was significantly correlated with change in mean probing pocket depth. This result shows that measurement of psychological stress using a voice-based tool to assess mental health may contribute to the early detection of periodontal disease. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

MDPI Acta Medica Okayama 2076-2607 10 5 2022 Maternal Gut Microbiome Decelerates Fetal Endochondral Bone Formation by Inducing Inflammatory Reaction 1000 EN Yoko Uchida-Fukuhara Department of Oral Morphology, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Takako Hattori Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Dentistry, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Shanqi Fu Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Dentistry, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Sei Kondo Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Dentistry, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Miho Kuwahara Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Dentistry, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Daiki Fukuhara Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Hospital Md Monirul Islam Department of Preventive Dentistry, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Kota Kataoka Department of Preventive Dentistry, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Daisuke Ekuni Department of Preventive Dentistry, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Satoshi Kubota Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Dentistry, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Manabu Morita Department of Preventive Dentistry, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Mika Iikegame Department of Oral Morphology, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Hirohiko Okamura Department of Oral Morphology, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University To investigate the effect of the maternal gut microbiome on fetal endochondral bone formation, fetuses at embryonic day 18 were obtained from germ-free (GF) and specific-pathogen-free (SPF) pregnant mothers. Skeletal preparation of the fetuses' whole bodies did not show significant morphological alterations; however, micro-CT analysis of the tibiae showed a lower bone volume fraction in the SPF tibia. Primary cultured chondrocytes from fetal SPF rib cages showed a lower cell proliferation and lower accumulation of the extracellular matrix. RNA-sequencing analysis showed the induction of inflammation-associated genes such as the interleukin (IL) 17 receptor, IL 6, and immune-response genes in SPF chondrocytes. These data indicate that the maternal gut microbiome in SPF mice affects fetal embryonic endochondral ossification, possibly by changing the expression of genes related to inflammation and the immune response in fetal cartilage. The gut microbiome may modify endochondral ossification in the fetal chondrocytes passing through the placenta. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Wiley Acta Medica Okayama 0022-3484 57 3 2022 Association between serum miRNAs and gingival gene expression in an obese rat model 502 509 EN Takayuki Maruyama Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Academic Field of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Terumasa Kobayashi Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Academic Field of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Yoshio Sugiura Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Academic Field of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Toshiki Yoneda Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Academic Field of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Daisuke Ekuni Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Academic Field of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Manabu Morita Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Academic Field of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Introduction<br> Recent studies have reported a relationship between periodontitis and obesity; however, the mechanisms of obesity’s effects on periodontitis are not well understood. On the other hand, microRNAs (miRNAs) are known to play key roles in the post-transcriptional regulation gene expression by suppressing translation and protein synthesis. We examined the association between obesity-related miRNAs and gene expression in gingival tissue using miRNA–messenger RNA (mRNA) pairing analysis in an obese rat model.<br> <br> Methods<br> Sixteen male Wistar rats aged 8 weeks old were divided into two groups: the control group was fed a normal powdered food for 8 weeks, and the obesity group was fed a high-fat diet for 8 weeks. Distance from the cement–enamel junction to the alveolar bone crest of the first molars was measured. miRNA microarray analysis was performed on samples of serum and gingival tissue; the resulting data were used to calculate fold changes in miRNA levels in the obesity group relative to the control group, and miRNA–mRNA pairing analysis was performed to identify mRNAs potentially targeted by miRNAs of interest.<br> <br> Results<br> Alveolar bone loss in the obesity group exceeded that in the control group (p = .017). miRNA–mRNA pairing analysis identified an association between 4 miRNAs (miR-759, miR-9a-3p, miR-203b-3p, and miR-878) that were differentially expressed in the obesity and control groups and 7 genes (Ly86, Arid5b, Rgs18, Mlana, P2ry13, Kif1b, and Myt1) expressed in gingival tissue.<br> <br> Conclusion<br> This study revealed that several miRNAs play an important role in the mechanism of periodontal disease progression induced by the obesity. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

MDPI Acta Medica Okayama 1660-4601 19 3 2022 Oral Factors as Predictors of Frailty in Community-Dwelling Older People: A Prospective Cohort Study 1145 EN Noriko Takeuchi Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Hospital Nanami Sawada Department of Preventive Dentistry, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Daisuke Ekuni Department of Preventive Dentistry, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Manabu Morita Department of Preventive Dentistry, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University The purpose of this prospective cohort study was to identify predictors for frailty among possible oral factors in community-dwelling older people. Ninety-seven participants (>= 60 years old) without frailty at baseline were included and assigned to either the robust or the frailty group after 2-year follow-up. The frailty was defined using the Japan Cardiovascular Health Study index. The numbers of present and functional teeth and periodontal disease severity were recorded. Bacterial counts on the dorsum of the tongue, oral moisture, tongue pressure, occlusal force, masticatory ability, and the oral diadochokinesis (ODK) rate were measured. Swallowing function, along with psychosocial status, relationships with communities and people, nutritional status, medical history, and comorbidities were evaluated using a questionnaire. The newly identified frailty group at follow-up showed significantly lower values in the number of teeth present, ODK/ta/sound and ODK/ka/sound rates, and clinical attachment level at baseline compared to the robust group. A logistic regression model showed a significantly negative association between the ODK/ta/sound rate at baseline and the incidence of frailty. Articulatory oral motor skill was found to be a predictor of frailty after two years. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

MDPI Acta Medica Okayama 1660-4601 18 15 2021 Detection of Salivary miRNAs That Predict Chronic Periodontitis Progression: A Cohort Study 8010 EN Kohei Fujimori Department of Preventive Dentistry, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Toshiki Yoneda Department of Preventive Dentistry, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Takaaki Tomofuji Department of Community Oral Health, School of Dentistry, Asahi University Daisuke Ekuni Department of Preventive Dentistry, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Tetsuji Azuma Department of Community Oral Health, School of Dentistry, Asahi University Takayuki Maruyama Department of Preventive Dentistry, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Yoshio Sugiura Department of Preventive Dentistry, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University Manabu Morita Department of Preventive Dentistry, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University The aim of this two-year cohort study was to investigate salivary microRNAs (miRNAs) that predict periodontitis progression. A total of 120 patients who underwent supportive periodontal therapy were recruited. Unstimulated whole saliva was collected at baseline. Two years later, 44 patients were followed up (median age, 67.1 years) and divided into two groups: progression group (n = 22), with one or more sites with clinical attachment level (CAL) progression (>3 mm compared with baseline) or tooth extraction due to periodontitis progression; and the control group (n = 22), which did not exhibit CAL progression. In the microarray analysis of salivary miRNAs, hsa-miR-5571-5p, hsa-miR-17-3p, hsa-let-7f-5p, hsa-miR-4724-3p, hsa-miR-99a-5p, hsa-miR-200a-3p, hsa-miR-28-5p, hsa-miR-320d, and hsa-miR-31-5p showed fold change values <0.5 or >= 2.0 in the progression group compared with the control group (p < 0.05). On receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, areas under the curves of hsa-miR-5571-5p, hsa-let-7f-5p, hsa-miR-99a-5p, hsa-miR-28-5p, and hsa-miR-320d were >0.7, indicating fair discrimination power. The expressions of salivary hsa-miR-5571-5p, hsa-let-7f-5p, hsa-miR-99a-5p, hsa-miR-28-5p, and hsa-miR-320d were associated with periodontitis progression in patients with chronic periodontitis. These salivary miRNAs may be new biomarkers for progression of periodontitis, and monitoring them may contribute to new diagnostics and precision medicine for periodontitis. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

MDPI Acta Medica Okayama 1660-4601 18 12 2021 Comprehensive Analysis of Risk Factors for Periodontitis Focusing on the Saliva Microbiome and Polymorphism 6430 EN Naoki Toyama Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Daisuke Ekuni Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Daisuke Matsui Department of Epidemiology for Community Health and Medicine, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine Teruhide Koyama Department of Epidemiology for Community Health and Medicine, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine Masahiro Nakatochi Public Health Informatics Unit, Department of Integrated Health Sciences, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine Yukihide Momozawa Laboratory for Genotyping Development, RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences Michiaki Kubo Laboratory for Genotyping Development, RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences Manabu Morita Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Few studies have exhaustively assessed relationships among polymorphisms, the microbiome, and periodontitis. The objective of the present study was to assess associations simultaneously among polymorphisms, the microbiome, and periodontitis. We used propensity score matching with a 1:1 ratio to select subjects, and then 22 individuals (mean age +/- standard deviation, 60.7 +/- 9.9 years) were analyzed. After saliva collection, V3-4 regions of the 16S rRNA gene were sequenced to investigate microbiome composition, alpha diversity (Shannon index, Simpson index, Chao1, and abundance-based coverage estimator) and beta diversity using principal coordinate analysis (PCoA) based on weighted and unweighted UniFrac distances. A total of 51 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) related to periodontitis were identified. The frequencies of SNPs were collected from Genome-Wide Association Study data. The PCoA of unweighted UniFrac distance showed a significant difference between periodontitis and control groups (p < 0.05). There were no significant differences in alpha diversity and PCoA of weighted UniFrac distance (p > 0.05). Two families (Lactobacillaceae and Desulfobulbaceae) and one species (Porphyromonas gingivalis) were observed only in the periodontitis group. No SNPs showed significant expression. These results suggest that periodontitis was related to the presence of P. gingivalis and the families Lactobacillaceae and Desulfobulbaceae but not SNPs. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Springer Science and Business Media LLC Acta Medica Okayama 0015-5632 63 5 2018 Unusual oral mucosal microbiota after hematopoietic cell transplantation with glycopeptide antibiotics: potential association with pathophysiology of oral mucositis 587 597 EN Misato Muro Division of Hospital Dentistry, Okayama University Hospital Yoshihiko Soga Division of Hospital Dentistry, Okayama University Hospital Tomoko Higuchi Division of Hospital Dentistry, Okayama University Hospital Kota Kataoka Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Daisuke Ekuni Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Yoshinobu Maeda Department of Hematology, Oncology and Respiratory Medicine, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Manabu Morita Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Severe oral mucositis occurs frequently in patients receiving hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HCT). Oral mucosal bacteria can be associated with progression of oral mucositis, and systemic infection may occur via ulcerative oral mucositis. However, little information is available regarding the oral microbiota after HCT. Here, PCR-denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE) was performed to characterize the oral mucosal microbiota, which can be affected by antibiotics, before and after HCT. Sixty reduced-intensity HCT patients were enrolled. Three patients with the least antibiotic use (quinolone prophylaxis and/or β-lactam monotherapy group) and three patients with the most antibiotic use (β-lactam-glycopeptide combination therapy group) were selected. Bacterial DNA samples obtained from the oral mucosa before and after HCT were subjected to PCR-DGGE. The trajectory of oral mucositis was evaluated. The oral mucosal microbiota in the β-lactam-glycopeptide combination therapy group was different from that in the quinolone prophylaxis and/or β-lactam monotherapy group, and Staphylococcus spp. and Enterococcus spp. were identified. Lautropia mirabilis was dominant in one patient. Ulcerative oral mucositis was observed only in the β-lactam-glycopeptide combination therapy group. In conclusion, especially with the use of strong antibiotics, such as glycopeptides, the oral mucosal microbiota differed completely from that under normal conditions, and consisted of Staphylococcus spp., Enterococcus spp., and unexpectedly L. mirabilis. The normal oral microbiota consists not only of bacteria, but these unexpected bacteria could be involved in the pathophysiology as well as systemic infection via oral mucositis. Our results can be used as the basis for future studies in larger patient populations. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

MDPI Acta Medica Okayama 1660-4601 18 1 2021 Living with Family Is Directly Associated with Regular Dental Checkup and Indirectly Associated with Gingival Status among Japanese University Students: A 3-Year Cohort Study 324 EN Momoko Nakahara Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Daisuke Ekuni Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Kota Kataoka Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Aya Yokoi Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Hospital Yoko Uchida-Fukuhara Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Hospital Daiki Fukuhara Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Hospital Terumasa Kobayashi Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Naoki Toyama Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Hikari Saho Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Md Monirul Islam Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Yoshiaki Iwasaki Health Service Center, Okayama University Manabu Morita Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Although some studies showed that lifestyle was associated with oral health behavior, few studies investigated the association between household type and oral health behavior. The aim of this prospective cohort study was to investigate the association between household type, oral health behavior, and periodontal status among Japanese university students. Data were obtained from 377 students who received oral examinations and self-questionnaires in 2016 and 2019. We assessed periodontal status using the percentage of bleeding on probing (%BOP), probing pocket depth, oral hygiene status, oral health behaviors, and related factors. We used structural equation modeling to determine the association between household type, oral health behaviors, gingivitis, and periodontitis. At follow-up, 252 students did not live with their families. The mean +/- standard deviation of %BOP was 35.5 +/- 24.7 at baseline and 32.1 +/- 25.3 at follow-up. In the final model, students living with their families were significantly more likely to receive regular dental checkup than those living alone. Regular checkup affected the decrease in calculus. The decrease in calculus affected the decrease in %BOP over 3 years. Living with family was directly associated with regular dental checkups and indirectly contributed to gingival status among Japanese university students. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Springer Acta Medica Okayama 1612-9059 18 1 2020 Association of dental occlusal support with the Prognostic Nutritional Index in patients with esophageal cancer who underwent esophagectomy 49 55 EN Reiko Yamanaka-Kohno Division of Hospital Dentistry, Central Clinical Department, Okayama University Hospital Yasuhiro Shirakawa Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Mami Inoue-Minakuchi Department of Oral Rehabilitation and Regenerative Medicine, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Aya Yokoi Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Misato Muro Division of Hospital Dentistry, Central Clinical Department, Okayama University Hospital Hirotaka Kosaki Division of Hospital Dentistry, Central Clinical Department, Okayama University Hospital Shunsuke Tanabe Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Toshiyoshi Fujiwara Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Manabu Morita Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Background</br> The Prognostic Nutritional Index is useful for predicting surgical risk and overall survival based on preoperative immunological and nutritional status in patients undergoing digestive organ cancer surgery. The purpose of this study was to examine the association between the Prognostic Nutritional Index and dental status in patients with esophageal cancer who underwent esophagectomy.</br> Methods</br> This retrospective case–control study included 73 patients who underwent resection of esophageal cancer (69 males, 4 females; age 36–83). General and dental status were evaluated. The Prognostic Nutritional Index was calculated based on the serum albumin concentration and the total lymphocyte count, and subjects were divided into two groups based on index scores: a higher group, characterized by scores ≥ 45 (n = 54); and a lower group, characterized by scores < 45 (n = 19). Univariate analysis and multiple logistic regression analyses were used to compare between groups.</br> Results</br> Total protein, C-reactive protein, the number of sound and total decayed, missing and filled teeth, and the rate of patients with poor dental occlusal support showed significant differences between the lower and higher Prognostic Nutritional Index groups (p < 0.05). Stepwise logistic regression analysis by backward selection approach showed that low total protein, few sound teeth, and poor status of dental occlusal support were significantly associated with the lower Prognostic Nutritional Index (p = 0.007, 0.042, and 0.009, respectively).</br> Conclusion</br> Dental status, especially dental occlusal support and the number of sound teeth, showed a positive relationship with the Prognostic Nutritional Index in esophageal cancer patients who underwent esophagectomy. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

MDPI Acta Medica Okayama 1660-4601 17 22 2020 Association between Household Exposure to Secondhand Smoke and Dental Caries among Japanese Young Adults: A Cross-Sectional Study 8623 EN Hikari Saho Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Ayano Taniguchi-Tabata Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Hospital Daisuke Ekuni Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Aya Yokoi Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Hospital Kouta Kataoka Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Daiki Fukuhara Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Hospital Naoki Toyama Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Md Monirul Islam Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Nanami Sawada Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Yukiho Nakashima Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Hospital Momoko Nakahara Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Junya Deguchi Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Yoko Uchida-Fukuhara Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Toshiki Yoneda Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Yoshiaki Iwasaki Health Service Center, Okayama University Manabu Morita Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences The long-term effects of secondhand smoke (SHS) on dental caries among Japanese young adults remain unclear. The purpose of this cross-sectional study was to evaluate whether household exposure to SHS is associated with dental caries in permanent dentition among Japanese young adults. The study sample included 1905 first-year university students (age range: 18-19 years) who answered a questionnaire and participated in oral examinations. The degree of household exposure to SHS was categorized into four levels according to the SHS duration: no experience (-), past, current SHS < 10 years, and current SHS >= 10 years. Dental caries are expressed as the total number of decayed, missing, and filled teeth (DMFT) score. The relationships between SHS and dental caries were determined by logistic regression analysis. DMFT scores (median (25th percentile, 75th percentile)) were significantly higher in the current SHS >= 10 years (median: 1.0 (0.0, 3.0)) than in the SHS-(median: 0.0 (0.0, 2.0)); p = 0.001). DMFT >= 1 was significantly associated with SHS >= 10 years (adjusted odds ratio: 1.50, 95% confidence interval: 1.20-1.87, p < 0.001). Long-term exposure to SHS (>= 10 years) was associated with dental caries in permanent dentition among Japanese young adults. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Public Library of Science Acta Medica Okayama 1932-6203 15 7 2020 Relationship between oral hygiene knowledge, source of oral hygiene knowledge and oral hygiene behavior in Japanese university students: A prospective cohort study e0236259 EN Daiki Fukuhara Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Hospital Daisuke Ekuni Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Kota Kataoka Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Ayano Taniguchi-Tabata Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Hospital Yoko Uchida-Fukuhara Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Hospital Naoki Toyama Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Toshiki Yoneda Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Yoshio Sugiura Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Monirul Islam Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Hikari Saho Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Yoshiaki Iwasaki Health Service Center, Okayama University Manabu Morita Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences The aim of this prospective cohort study was to examine whether oral hygiene knowledge, and the source of that knowledge, affect oral hygiene behavior in university students in Japan. An oral exam and questionnaire survey developed to evaluate oral hygiene knowledge, the source of that knowledge, and oral hygiene behavior, such as the frequency of tooth brushing and regular dental checkups and the use of dental floss, was conducted on university student volunteers. In total, 310 students with poor tooth brushing behavior (frequency of tooth brushing per day [<= once]), 1,963 who did not use dental floss, and 1,882 who did not receive regular dental checkup during the past year were selected. Among these students, 50, 364, and 343 in each respective category were analyzed in over the 3-year study period (follow-up rates: 16.1%, 18.5%, and 18.2%, respectively). The odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for oral hygiene behavior were calculated based on oral hygiene knowledge and the source of that knowledge using logistic regression models. The results showed that dental clinics were the most common (> 50%) source of oral hygiene knowledge, and that a more frequent use of dental floss was significantly associated with dental clinics being a source of oral hygiene knowledge (OR, 4.11; 95%CI, 1.871-9.029; p < 0.001). In addition, a significant association was seen between dental clinics being a source of oral hygiene knowledge and more frequent regular dental checkups (OR, 13.626; 95%CI, 5.971-31.095; p < 0.001). These findings suggest the existence of a relationship between dental clinics being the most common source of oral hygiene knowledge and improved oral hygiene behavior in Japanese university students. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Taylor and Francis Acta Medica Okayama 0001-6357 79 2 2020 Association between the incidence of early childhood caries and attending childcare among toddlers in a rural area of Japan: a prospective cohort study 118 123 EN Aya Yokoi Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Noriko Takeuchi Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Daisuke Ekuni Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Manabu Morita Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Objective</br> The purpose of this study was to investigate the association between the incidence of early childhood caries (ECC) and factors of the daytime childcare environment among toddlers in a rural area of Japan.</br> Material and methods</br> This was a prospective cohort study. Data collected from 2011 to 2015 were obtained for initially caries-free, 18-month-old toddlers (N = 640). Dentists recorded the numbers of decayed, missing and filled teeth (caries incidence) of toddlers at baseline (age 18 months) and follow-up (age 3 years). In addition, a questionnaire survey was conducted on guardians at baseline to record data on lifestyle.</br> Results</br> In total, 159 (24.8%) toddlers had newly identified ECC at follow-up. Logistic regression analyses indicated that the incidence of ECC was significantly associated with receiving daytime care at a nursery school (odds ratio [OR], 1.55; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.05–2.30; p = .029), prolonged breastfeeding (OR, 1.71; 95%CI, 1.15–2.55; p = .008), and snacking ≥3 times a day (OR, 2.39; 95%CI, 1.53–3.74; p < .001).</br> Conclusion</br> These findings suggest that receiving daytime care at a nursery school, prolonged breastfeeding, and frequent snacking are associated with an increased risk of ECC among Japanese toddlers in rural areas. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

MDPI Acta Medica Okayama 1660-4601 17 10 2020 Caries Increment and Salivary Microbiome during University Life: A Prospective Cohort Study 3713 EN Yoko Uchida-Fukuhara Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Hospital Daisuke Ekuni Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Md Monirul Islam Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Kota Kataoka Advanced Research Center for Oral and Craniofacial Sciences, Okayama University Dental School Ayano Taniguchi-Tabata Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Hospital Daiki Fukuhara Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Hospital Naoki Toyama Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Terumasa Kobayashi Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Kohei Fujimori Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Nanami Sawada Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Yoshiaki Iwasaki Health Service Center, Okayama University Manabu Morita Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences The purpose of this 3-year prospective cohort study was to explore the relationship between an increase in dental caries and oral microbiome among Japanese university students. We analyzed 487 students who volunteered to receive oral examinations and answer baseline (2013) and follow-up (2016) questionnaires. Of these students, salivary samples were randomly collected from 55 students at follow-up and analyzed using next-generation sequencing. Students were divided into two groups: increased group (Delta decayed, missing, and filled teeth (Delta DMFT) score increased during the 3-year period) and non-increased group (Delta DMFT did not increase). Thirteen phyla, 21 classes, 32 orders, 48 families, 72 genera, and 156 species were identified. Microbial diversity in the increased group (n = 14) was similar to that in the non-increased group (n = 41). Relative abundances of the family Prevotellaceae (p = 0.007) and genera Alloprevotella (p = 0.007) and Dialister (p = 0.039) were enriched in the increased group compared with the non-increased group. Some bacterial taxonomic clades were differentially present between the two groups. These results may contribute to the development of new dental caries prevention strategies, including the development of detection kits and enlightenment activities for these bacteria. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Nature Research Acta Medica Okayama 2045-2322 10 2020 Association between maternal periodontal status and ultrasonographic measurement of fetal growth: A longitudinal study EN Ayano Taniguchi-Tabata Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Hospital Noriko Takeuchi Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Hospital Yoko Uchida Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Hospital Daisuke Ekuni Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Manabu Morita Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences The aim of this prospective cohort study was to investigate the association between intrauterine fetal growth patterns and periodontal status in pregnant women. Fifty-three pregnant women were recruited. Periodontitis was diagnosed based on probing pocket depth and clinical attachment level. Maternal urinary 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine levels and body mass index were recorded. Ultrasonographic measurements of the biparietal diameter (BPD), abdominal circumference (AC), and femur length (FL) were recorded, and estimated fetal weight (EFW) was calculated. In addition, approximation spline curves of BPD, AC, FL, and EFW were obtained throughout the gestation period. Recorded delivery outcomes were gestational age (GA), birth weight and length, sex, placental weight, and umbilical cord length. Forty-four participants (34.1 +/- 4.9 years) were analyzed. Mean neonatal birth weight was 2906.0 +/- 544.4g. On multiple regression analysis, birth weight was related with periodontitis (standardized beta=-0.21, P=0.001). For EFW and BPD, the curves of the periodontitis group were located lower than those of the non-periodontitis group, with significant differences after 32 weeks and 20 weeks of GA, respectively. In conclusion, periodontal treatment before conception may be recommended and a good periodontal condition in the early stage of pregnancy at the latest is desirable for infant growth. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

MDPI Acta Medica Okayama 1660-4601 17 9 2020 Association between Sleep Quality and Duration and Periodontal Disease among University Students: A Cross-Sectional Study EN Md Monirul Islam Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Daisuke Ekuni Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Naoki Toyama Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Ayano Taniguchi-Tabata Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Hospital Kota Kataoka Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Yoko Uchida-Fukuhara Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Hospital Daiki Fukuhara Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Hospital Hikari Saho Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Nanami Sawada Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Yukiho Nakashima Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Hospital Yoshiaki Iwasaki Health Service Center, Okayama University Manabu Morita Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences The purpose of this cross-sectional study was to investigate the association between sleep quality and duration, and periodontal disease among a group of young Japanese university students. First-year students (n = 1934) at Okayama University who voluntarily underwent oral health examinations were included in the analysis. Sleep quality and duration were assessed by the Japanese version of the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index. Dentists examined Oral Hygiene Index-Simplified (OHI-S), probing pocket depth (PPD), and percentage of sites with bleeding on probing (BOP). Periodontal disease was defined as presence of PPD >= 4 mm and BOP >= 30%. Overall, 283 (14.6%) students had periodontal disease. Poor sleep quality was observed among 372 (19.2%) students. Mean (+/- standard deviation) sleep duration was 7.1 +/- 1.1 (hours/night). In the logistic regression analysis, periodontal disease was significantly associated with OHI-S (odds ratio [OR]: 2.30, 95% confident interval [CI]: 1.83-2.90; p < 0.001), but not sleep quality (OR: 1.09, 95% CI: 0.79-1.53; p = 0.577) or sleep duration (OR: 0.98, CI: 0.87-1.10; p = 0.717). In conclusion, sleep quality and duration were not associated with periodontal disease among this group of young Japanese university students. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

MDPI Acta Medica Okayama 1660-4601 17 5 2020 Relationship of Salivary Microbiome with the Worsening of the Periodontal Health Status in Young Adults: A 3-Year Cohort Study 1764 EN Md Monirul Islam Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Daisuke Ekuni Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Naoki Toyama Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Terumasa Kobayashi Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Kohei Fujimori Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Yoko Uchida Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Hospital Daiki Fukuhara Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Hospital Ayano Taniguchi-Tabata Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Hospital Kota Kataoka Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Yoshiaki Iwasaki Health Service Center, Okayama University Manabu Morita Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences The purpose of this prospective cohort study was to investigate the influence of the salivary microbiome on the worsening of the periodontal health status among Japanese young adults. We assessed the data of systemically healthy and non-smoking young (18-22 years) university students (n = 457) from Okayama University at baseline (2013) and follow-up (2016). The worsening group was defined based on an increase in the percentage of bleeding on probing (%BOP) or an increase in probing pocket depth (PPD) from <4 mm to >= 4 mm. Unstimulated saliva samples were randomly collected from 69 students for microbiome analysis at follow-up. The salivary microbiome was assessed through 16S rRNA metagenomic sequencing. The type of community in the salivary microbiome clustered by statistical analysis and diversity was not significantly associated with the worsening of the periodontal health status in cases of increasing %BOP and PPD (p > 0.05). The prevalence of some species was significantly higher in the worsening group than in the non-worsening group (p < 0.05) in both cases. The worsening of the periodontal health status was associated with some species, but not the type of community and diversity in the salivary microbiome among Japanese young adults. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

International Institute of Anticancer Research Acta Medica Okayama 0258-851X 34 2 2020 Effects of Coffee Intake on Oxidative Stress During Aging-related Alterations in Periodontal Tissue 615 622 EN Terumasa Kobayashi Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Takayuki Maruyama Center for Innovative Clinical Medicine, Okayama University Hospital Toshiki Yoneda Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Hisataka Miyai Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Tetsuji Azuma Department of Community Oral Health, Asahi University School of Dentistry Takaaki Tomofuji Department of Community Oral Health, Asahi University School of Dentistry Daisuke Ekuni Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Manabu Morita Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Background/aim: The purpose of this study was to determine the anti-aging effects of coffee intake on oxidative stress in rat periodontal tissue and alveolar bone loss.<br/> Materials and methods: Male Fischer 344 rats (8 weeks old) were randomized to four groups; the baseline group immediately sacrificed, the control group fed with normal powdered food for 8 weeks, and the experimental groups fed with powdered food containing 0.62% or 1.36% coffee components for 8 weeks.<br/> Results: Alveolar bone loss and gingival level of 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine were significantly lower in the 1.36% coffee group than in the control group. Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 translocation to the nucleus was significantly higher in the 1.36% coffee group than in the control group.<br/> Conclusion: Continuous intake of 1.36% coffee could prevent age-related oxidative stress in the periodontal tissue and alveolar bone loss, possibly by up-regulating the Nrf2 signaling pathway. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

MDPI Acta Medica Okayama 1661-7827 16 21 2019 Quasi-Randomized Trial of Effects of Perioperative Oral Hygiene Instruction on Inpatients with Heart Diseases Using a Behavioral Six-Step Method E4252 EN Chie Omori Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Daisuke Ekuni Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Yumiko Ohbayashi Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Kagawa University Hospital Minoru Miyake Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Kagawa University Hospital Manabu Morita Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences The assessor-blinded, parallel-design, quasi-randomized study (alternating allocation) aimed to determine the effects of the six-step method on postoperative numbers of oral bacteria, periodontal status, and atrial fibrillation (AF) among inpatients with heart diseases and periodontitis. Seventy inpatients who received preoperative periodontal treatment were quasi-randomly assigned to intervention and control groups at University Hospital. The intervention group received intensive oral hygiene instruction using a six-step method for 15 minutes per week and the control group received routine oral hygiene instruction. Significantly fewer oral bacteria were identified on the tongue at discharge compared with baseline in the intervention than the control group (ANCOVA) (large effect size, p = 0.02). Changes in scores for self-efficacy, plaque scores, probed pocket depth, and bleeding on probing between baseline and discharge were significantly greater in the intervention, than in the control group (p < 0.05). The period of postoperative AF (days) was significantly shorter in the intervention, than in the control group (p = 0.019). In conclusion, oral hygiene instruction using the six-step method decreased the numbers of oral bacteria on the tongue and improved self-efficacy, oral health behaviors, oral hygiene status, periodontal status, and period of postoperative AF among inpatients with periodontitis and heart diseases. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

MDPI Acta Medica Okayama 1661-7827 16 19 2019 Influence of Occupational Stress and Coping Style on Periodontitis Among Japanese Workers: A Cross-Sectional Study 3540 EN Md Monirul Islam Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Daisuke Ekuni Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Toshiki Yoneda Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Aya Yokoi Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Manabu Morita Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences The aim of this cross-sectional study was to evaluate the association between the influence of occupational stress and coping style on periodontitis among Japanese workers. The study sample included 738 workers (age range: 19-65 years) at a manufacturing company in Kagawa Prefecture, Japan. To analyze occupational stress and coping style, all participants answered a self-report questionnaire composed of items on their work environment and oral health behavior. Oral examinations were performed by calibrated dentists. Among all workers, 492 (66.7%) workers were diagnosed with periodontitis, and 50 (6.8%) were diagnosed with a high stress-low coping condition. Significant differences (p < 0.05) were observed between the periodontitis and non-periodontitis groups in terms of age, gender, body mass index, smoking status, daily alcohol drinking, monthly overtime work, worker type, and stress-coping style. Logistic regression analysis showed that a high stress-low coping condition was associated with an increased risk of periodontitis (odds ratio: 2.79, 95% confidence interval: 1.05-7.43, p = 0.039). These findings suggest that a high stress-low coping condition is associated with periodontitis among the 19-65 years of age group of Japanese workers. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Nihon University School of Dentistry Acta Medica Okayama 1343-4934 61 1 2019 The level of salivary lactate dehydrogenase as an indicator of the association between gingivitis and related factors in Japanese university students 133 139 EN Ayano Taniguchi-Tabata Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Daisuke Ekuni Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Tetsuji Azuma Department of Community Oral Health, Asahi University School of Dentistry Toshiki Yoneda Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Mayu Yamane-Takeuchi Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Kota Kataoka Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Hirofumi Mizuno Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Hisataka Miyai Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Yoshiaki Iwasaki Health Service Center, Okayama University Manabu Morita Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences The aim of this study was to investigate the association between the presence of gingivitis estimated using the salivary level of lactate dehydrogenase (LD) and related factors in young Japanese adults. Data from 1,915 participants (21.4 ± 2.5 years) were analyzed. Unstimulated saliva was collected from each participant and the salivary LD level was evaluated using a commercially available test kit with an integer scale ranging from 1 to 10. Gingivitis was defined as the LD level of ≥8. The number of permanent teeth, the simplified oral hygiene index (OHI-S), the presence of partially erupted molars and body mass index were recorded. Additionally, participants answered a questionnaire. The percentage of male participants, the number of permanent teeth, the OHI-S and the presence of partially erupted molars were higher, whereas the proportion receiving dental check-ups was lower in the gingivitis group (n = 88, 4.6%) than in the healthy group. Logistic regression analysis showed that gingivitis was significantly associated with OHI-S (OR: 2.68, 95% CI: 1.94-3.69) and receiving dental checkups (OR: 0.31, 95% CI: 0.10-0.99). The present findings indicated that the OHI-S and receiving dental checkups were significantly associated with gingivitis, as assessed by the salivary LD level, in this cohort. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

The International Institute of Anticancer Research Acta Medica Okayama 0258-851X 33 1 2019 Relationship Between Renal Dysfunction and Oral Mucositis in Patients Undergoing Concurrent Chemoradiotherapy for Pharyngeal Cancer: A Retrospective Cohort Study. 183 189 EN HIROFUMI MIZUNO Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences HISATAKA MIYAI Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences AYA YOKOI Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences TERUMASA KOBAYASHI Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences CHIAKI INABU Junpukai Daiku Dental Clinic TAKAYUKI MARUYAMA Center for Innovative Clinical Medicine, Okayama University Hospital DAISUKE EKUNI Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences NOBUYOSHI MIZUKAWA Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Reconstructive Surgery, Okayama University Hospital SHIN KARIYA Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences KAZUNORI NISHIZAKI Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences YOSHIHIRO KIMATA Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences MANABU MORITA Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences BACKGROUND/AIM:<br/> The aim of this retrospective cohort study was to investigate the association between renal dysfunction (RD) and the development of oral mucositis (OM) in patients undergoing concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT) for pharyngeal cancer including radiation to the oral cavity.<br/> PATIENTS AND METHODS:<br/> Of 130 patients diagnosed as having pharyngeal cancer who received CCRT at the Okayama University Hospital Head and Neck Cancer Center, 44 were finally selected.<br/> RESULTS:<br/> During the observation period, 24 (54.5%) patients experienced severe OM (grade 3). The Cox proportional hazards regression model demonstrated that RD (hazard ratio(HR)=2.45, 95% confidence interval(CI)=1.067-6.116, p=0.035) and nasopharynx/oropharynx as center of the irradiated area (HR=2.56, 95% CI=1.072-5.604, p=0.034) were significantly associated with the incidence of severe OM (grade 3).<br/> CONCLUSION:<br/> In patients with pharyngeal cancer treated with CCRT including radiation to the oral cavity, RD at baseline can be a risk factor for developing severe OM. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

MDPI Acta Medica Okayama 1660-4601 16 5 2019 Awareness of Clenching and Underweight are Risk Factors for Onset of Crowding in Young Adults: A Prospective 3-Year Cohort Study 690 EN Naoki Toyama Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Daisuke Ekuni Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Ayano Taniguchi-Tabata Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Kota Kataoka Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Mayu Yamane-Takeuchi Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Kohei Fujimori Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Terumasa Kobayashi Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Daiki Fukuhara Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Koichiro Irie Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Columbia University Medical Center Tetsuji Azuma Department of Community Oral Health, Asahi University School of Dentistry Yoshiaki Iwasaki Health Service Center, Okayama University Manabu Morita Department of Preventive Dentistry, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Bruxism is a parafunctional activity that can seriously affect quality of life. Although bruxism induces many problems in the oral and maxillofacial area, whether it contributes to the onset of malocclusion remains unclear. The purpose of this prospective cohort study was to investigate the association between the onset of malocclusion and awareness of clenching during the daytime in young adults. Among 1,092 Okayama University students who underwent normal occlusion at baseline, we analysed 238 who had undergone a dental examination and had complete data after 3 years (2013⁻2016). We also performed subgroup analysis to focus on the association between awake bruxism and the onset of crowding (n = 216). Odds ratios (ORs) were calculated using multivariate logistic regression analyses. The incidences of malocclusion and crowding were 53.8% and 44.5%, respectively. In multivariate logistic regression, awareness of clenching was a risk factor for crowding (OR: 3.63; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.08⁻12.17). Moreover, underweight (body mass index < 18.5 kg/m²) was related to the onset of malocclusion (OR: 2.34; 95%CI: 1.11⁻4.92) and crowding (OR: 2.52, 95%CI: 1.25⁻5.76). These results suggest that awareness of clenching during the daytime and underweight are risk factors for the onset of crowding in young adults. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

The Japanese Society of Internal Medicine Acta Medica Okayama 0918-2918 54 14 2015 Detection of Identical Isolates of Enterococcus faecalis from the Blood and Oral Mucosa in a Patient with Infective Endocarditis 1809 1814 EN Akemi Okui Yoshihiko Soga Susumu Kokeguchi Motoko Nose Reiko Yamanaka Nobuchika Kusano Manabu Morita The detection of infective endocarditis (IE) of oral origin has been previously discussed. However, there are few reports confirming this infection using molecular biological techniques. We herein describe the case of a 67-year-old man who developed IE. Blood culture samples and strains obtained from the gingival and buccal mucosa showed 100% identity to Enterococcus faecalis JCM 5803 on sequencing of 16S rRNA gene fragments. A random amplification of polymorphic DNA (RAPD) analysis showed the same pattern for these samples, thus confirming the identity of E. faecalis isolates in the blood and oral mucosa. Our observations provide novel information regarding the level of identity between IE pathogens and oral bacteria. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Okayama University Medical School Acta Medica Okayama 0386-300X 68 6 2014 Management of Lacerated and Swollen Tongue after Convulsive Seizure with a Mouth Protector: Interprofessional Collaboration Including Dentists in Intensive Care 375 378 EN Reiko Yamanaka Yoshihiko Soga Yoshie Moriya Akemi Okui Tetsuo Takeuchi Kenji Sato Hiroshi Morimatsu Manabu Morita Case Report 10.18926/AMO/53027 We encountered a 74-year-old male patient with tongue laceration after convulsive seizures under intensive care. The tongue showed severe swelling, and the right ventral surface had been lacerated by his isolated and pointed right lower canine. Our university hospital has established a perioperative management center, and is promoting interprofessional collaboration, including dentists, in perioperative management. Dentists collaborating in the perioperative management center took dental impressions, with the support of anesthesiologists who opened the patientʼs jaw under propofol sedation, to produce a mouth protector. By raising the patientʼs bite, the completed mouth protector prevented the isolated tooth from contacting the tongue and protected the lacerated wound. Use of the mouth protector prevented the lacerated tongue from coming into contact with the pointed tooth, and the tongue healed gradually. These findings underscore that interprofessional collaboration including dentists can improve the quality of medical care. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

岡山歯学会 Acta Medica Okayama 0913-3941 32 2 2013 岡山大学病院歯科系診療科等が医科系診療科等から受けた院内紹介とそれに対する初動対応　―平成22年度と23年度を対象とした実態調査― 57 63 EN Reiko Yamanaka Emiko Udaka Aiko Yoshitomi Eriko Matsumoto Yoshihiko Soga Manabu Morita No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Wiley-Blackwell Acta Medica Okayama 0303-6979 39 9 2012 Effects of self-efficacy on oral health behaviours and gingival health in university students aged 18- or 19-years-old 844 849 EN Shinsuke Mizutani Daisuke Ekuni Michiko Furuta Takaaki Tomofuji Koichiro Irie Tetsuji Azuma Azusa Kojima Jun Nagase Yoshiaki Iwasaki Manabu Morita Aim Although self-efficacy is known to affect various health-related practises, few studies have clearly examined how self-efficacy correlates with oral health behaviors or the oral health condition. We examined the relationship between gingivitis, oral health behaviors and self-efficacy in university students. Material & Methods A total of 2,111 students (1,197 males, 914 females) aged 18 and 19 years were examined. The degree of gingivitis was expressed as the percentage of bleeding on probing (%BOP). Additional information was collected via a questionnaire regarding oral health behaviors (daily frequency of tooth-brushing, use of dental floss and regular check-up). Self-efficacy was assessed using the Self-Efficacy Scale for Self-care (SESS). Path analysis was used to test pathways from self-efficacy to oral health behaviors and %BOP. Results In the final structural model, self-efficacies were related to each other, and they affected oral health behaviors. Good oral health behaviors reduced dental plaque and calculus, and lower levels of dental plaque and calculus resulted in lower %BOP. Conclusion Higher self-efficacy correlated with better oral health behaviours and gingival health in university students. Improving self-efficacy may be beneficial for maintaining good gingival health in university students. To prevent gingivitis, the approach of enhancing self-efficacy in university students would be useful. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Acta Medica Okayama 2045-2322 4 2014 Effects of hydrogen-rich water on aging periodontal tissues in rats EN Takaaki Tomofuji Yuya Kawabata Kenta Kasuyama Yasumasa Endo Toshiki Yoneda Mayu Yamane Tetsuji Azuma Daisuke Ekuni Manabu Morita Oxidative damage is involved in age-related inflammatory reactions. The anti-oxidative effects of hydrogen-rich water suppress oxidative damage, which may aid in inhibiting age-related inflammatory reactions. We investigated the effects of drinking hydrogen-rich water on aging periodontal tissues in healthy rats. Four-month-old male Fischer 344 rats (n = 12) were divided into two groups: the experimental group (hydrogen-rich water treatment) and the control group (distilled water treatment). The rats consumed hydrogen-rich water or distilled water until 16 months of age. The experimental group exhibited lower periodontal oxidative damage at 16 months of age than the control group. Although protein expression of interleukin-1 beta did not differ, gene expression of Nod-like receptor protein 3 inflammasomes was activated in periodontal tissues from the experimental group as compared with the control group. Drinking hydrogen-rich water is proposed to have anti-aging effects on periodontal oxidative damage, but not on inflammatory reactions in healthy rats. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Public Library Science Acta Medica Okayama 1932-6203 8 5 2013 Effects of Biliverdin Administration on Acute Lung Injury Induced by Hemorrhagic Shock and Resuscitation in Rats EN Junko Kosaka Hiroshi Morimatsu Toru Takahashi Hiroko Shimizu Susumu Kawanishi Emiko Omori Yasumasa Endo Naofumi Tamaki Manabu Morita Kiyoshi Morita Hemorrhagic shock and resuscitation induces pulmonary inflammation that leads to acute lung injury. Biliverdin, a metabolite of heme catabolism, has been shown to have potent cytoprotective, anti-inflammatory, and anti-oxidant effects. This study aimed to examine the effects of intravenous biliverdin administration on lung injury induced by hemorrhagic shock and resuscitation in rats. Biliverdin or vehicle was administered to the rats 1 h before sham or hemorrhagic shock-inducing surgery. The sham-operated rats underwent all surgical procedures except bleeding. To induce hemorrhagic shock, rats were bled to achieve a mean arterial pressure of 30 mmHg that was maintained for 60 min, followed by resuscitation with shed blood. Histopathological changes in the lungs were evaluated by histopathological scoring analysis. Inflammatory gene expression was determined by Northern blot analysis, and oxidative DNA damage was assessed by measuring 8-hydroxy-2' deoxyguanosine levels in the lungs. Hemorrhagic shock and resuscitation resulted in prominent histopathological damage, including congestion, edema, cellular infiltration, and hemorrhage. Biliverdin administration prior to hemorrhagic shock and resuscitation significantly ameliorated these lung injuries as judged by histopathological improvement. After hemorrhagic shock and resuscitation, inflammatory gene expression of tumor necrosis factor-alpha and inducible nitric oxide synthase were increased by 18- and 8-fold, respectively. Inflammatory gene expression significantly decreased when biliverdin was administered prior to hemorrhagic shock and resuscitation. Moreover, after hemorrhagic shock and resuscitation, lung 8-hydroxy-2' deoxyguanosine levels in mitochondrial DNA expressed in the pulmonary interstitium increased by 1.5-fold. Biliverdin administration prior to hemorrhagic shock and resuscitation decreased mitochondrial 8-hydroxy-2' deoxyguanosine levels to almost the same level as that in the control animals. We also confirmed that biliverdin administration after hemorrhagic shock and resuscitation had protective effects on lung injury. Our findings suggest that biliverdin has a protective role, at least in part, against hemorrhagic shock and resuscitation-induced lung injury through anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant mechanisms. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

岡山歯学会 Acta Medica Okayama 0913-3941 28 1 2009 岡山大学病院周術期管理センター(歯科部門)設立後5ヵ月間の活動内容および今後の展開 37 42 EN Reiko Yamanaka Yoshihiko Soga Kumiko Nawachi Yoshinobu Yanagi Naoki Kodama Takashi Nakata Rumi Miura Misao Hagawa Tetsuo Takeuchi Mieko Yamane Manabu Morita Shogo Takashiba Jun-ichi Asami Shogo Minagi Masahiro Yoshiyama Tsutomu Shimono Takuo Kuboki Akira Sasaki Kiyoshi Morita No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Wiley-Blackwell Acta Medica Okayama 1386-6346 43 10 2013 Serum oxidative-anti-oxidative stress balance is dysregulated in patients with hepatitis C virus-related hepatocellular carcinoma 1078 1092 EN Mamoru Nishimura Akinobu Takaki Naofumi Tamaki Takayuki Maruyama Hideki Onishi Sayo Kobayashi Kazuhiro Nouso Tetsuya Yasunaka Kazuko Koike Hiroaki Hagihara Kenji Kuwaki Shinichiro Nakamura Fusao Ikeda Yoshiaki Iwasaki Takaaki Tomofuji Manabu Morita Kazuhide Yamamoto Aim Oxidative stress is associated with progression of chronic liver disease (CLD). This association is best established in chronic hepatitis C. However, the anti-oxidative state is not well characterized. The objective of the present study was to investigate the balance of oxidative and anti-oxidative stress in CLD patients. Methods We recruited a study population of 208 patients, including healthy volunteers (HV; n = 15), patients with hepatitis B virus (HBV)-related CLD without or with hepatocellular carcinoma (HBV-non-HCC, n = 25, and HBV-HCC, n = 50, respectively), and patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV)-related CLD without or with HCC (HCV-non-HCC, n = 49, and HCV-HCC, n = 69, respectively). Serum levels of reactive oxygen metabolites (ROM) and anti-oxidative markers (OXY-adsorbent test; OXY) were determined, and the balance of these values was used as the oxidative index. Correlations among ROM, OXY, oxidative index and clinical characteristics were investigated. Results Patients with CLD exhibited elevated ROM and oxidative index compared to HV. Among patients with CLD, HCV positive status correlated with increased ROM. In CLD, HCV-HCC patients exhibited the highest ROM levels. Among HCV-related CLD patients, lower OXY correlated with HCC positive status, but was recovered by eradication of HCC. In HCV-HCC, lower OXY correlated with high PT-INR. Conclusion HCV positive CLD patients displayed higher oxidative stress and HCV-HCC patients displayed lower anti-oxidative state. Anti-oxidative state depression was associated with liver reservoir-related data in HCV-HCC and could be reversed with HCC eradication. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

岡山歯学会 Acta Medica Okayama 0913-3941 31 2 2012 岡山大学病院歯科系診療科等が医科系診療科等から受けた院内紹介とそれに対する初動対応 ― 平成22年度を対象とした実態調査― 67 71 EN Yoshihiko Soga Emiko Kurashige Reiko Yamanaka Aiko Yoshitomi Manabu Morita No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Pergamon-Elsevier Science Ltd. Acta Medica Okayama 0003-9969 56 1 2011 Occlusal disharmony induces BDNF level in rat submandibular gland 35 40 EN Koichiro Irie Daisuke Ekuni Takaaki Tomofuji Tetsuji Azuma Yasumasa Endo Kenta Kasuyama Manabu Morita Objectives: Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which is produced in rat submandibular gland, is one of the most abundant neurotrophins in the central nervous system. It is generally accepted that occlusal disharmony causes stress. The purpose of the present study was to investigate whether occlusal disharmony-induced chronic stress affects BDNF levels and morphology in rat submandibular gland. Design: Eight wks old male Wistar rats (n = 21) were randomly divided into three groups of 7 rats. In a control (C) group, the rats received no treatment for 8 wks. In a molar cusp-less (OD) group, maxillary molar cusps were cut off with a dental turbine at baseline and kept for 8 wks. In a molar cusp-less + recovered cusp (OR) group, maxillary molar cusps were cut off and then were recovered after 4 wks using resin material. After the experimental period, expression of BDNF mRNA and protein as well as histological findings were evaluated in the submandibular glands. The comparisons between the groups were made using the Mann-Whitney U test with Bonferroni correction. Results: The OD group showed a significant increase in submandibular gland BDNF mRNA and protein expression after 8 wks, and plasma adrenocorticotropic hormone and corticosterone levels increased in a time-dependent manner. There were no significant differences in BDNF expression in the submandibular glands and in levels of plasma adrenocorticotropic hormone and corticosterone between the OR and C groups. Conclusions: These results indicate that psychological stress induced by occlusal disharmony reversibly induces BDNF expression in the rat submandibular gland. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Pergamon-Elsevier Science Ltd. Acta Medica Okayama 0003-9969 56 8 2011 Effects of exercise training on gingival oxidative stress in obese rats 768 774 EN Tetsuji Azuma Takaaki Tomofuji Yasumasa Endo Naofumi Tamaki Daisuke Ekuni Koichiro Irie Kenta Kasuyama Tomo Kato Manabu Morita Objective: The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effects of exercise training on serum reactive oxygen species (ROS) level and gingival oxidative stress in obese rats fed a high-fat diet. Design: Rats were divided into three groups (n = 14/group): one control group (fed a regular diet) and two experimental groups (fed a high-fat diet with and without exercise training [treadmill: 5 days/week]). The rats were sacrificed at 4 or 8 weeks. The level of serum reactive oxidative metabolites (ROM) was measured as an indicator of circulating ROS. The level of 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) and reduced-form glutathione (GSH)/oxidised-form glutathione (GSSG) ratio were determined to evaluate gingival oxidative stress. Results: The obese rats fed a high-fat diet without exercise training showed higher serum ROM levels [Carratelli Units (CARR U)] (mean +/- SD; 413 +/- 64) than the control (333 +/- 12) at 4 weeks (p = 0.023). Such a condition resulted in higher 8-OHdG levels (ng/mg mtDNA) (0.97 +/- 0.18) (p < 0.05) and a lower GSH/GSSG ratio (17.0 +/- 3.1) (p < 0.05) in gingival tissues, compared to the control (0.55 +/- 0.13 for 8-OHdG and 23.6 +/- 5.8 for GSH/GSSG ratio) at 8 weeks. In addition, the obese rats fed a high-fat diet with exercise training showed lower serum ROM (623 +/- 103) (p<0.001) and gingival 8-OHdG levels (0.69 +/- 0.17) (p = 0.012) than those without exercise training (1105 95 for ROM and 0.55 +/- 0.13 for 8-OHdG) at 8 weeks. Conclusions: Obesity prevention by exercise training may effectively suppress gingival oxidative stress by decreasing serum ROS in rats. No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

岡山医学会 Acta Medica Okayama 0030-1558 121 3 2009 地域の歯科医療関係者に対する支援―口腔インプラント講習会と摂食・ 嚥下リハビリテーション教育― 183 187 EN Tetsuji Azuma Kyoko Arioka Hikaru Arakawa Masahiko Egusa Takuo Kuboki Manabu Morita No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Acta Medica Okayama 1991 歯肉縁上歯石に関連するペプチダーゼ産出菌の同定について EN No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.