Vitamin A, calcium, phosphorus and magnesium status of heifers grazing in Northern Cyprus.

Vitamin A, calcium (Ca), phosphorus (P) and magnesium (Mg) are essential components for the health and reproductive yield of dairy cows. In this study, it is aimed to profile the calcium, phosphorus and magnesium elements together with vitamin A, which are important components in cattle bred and reared in Northern Cyprus. To analyse these parameters, 260 clinically healthy animals, at least 30 from each region, were blood sampled from eight different regions (Nicosia, Gecitkale, Vadili, Famagusta, Iskele, Ziyamet, Morphou and Kyrenia) during both summer and winter seasons. Vitamin A, calcium, magnesium and phosphorus concentrations were measured from blood samples. Vitamin A levels increased significantly only in Nicosia and Ziyamet regions during the winter season, while there was no seasonal difference from the other regions. Calcium and phosphorus levels were higher in summer when compared with winter. Magnesium levels were significantly higher in winter than in summer. In the comparison between regions in summer and winter, the change in P and Mg values was significant, whereas Ca only showed inter-regional differences during winter. In conclusion, all the parameters found were within the expected ranges but affected by seasonal changes. Therefore, we think that calcium and phosphorus supplementation in winter and vitamin A and magnesium supplementation in summer will provide positive results on cattle.

Fluoride and aluminum release from restorative materials using ion chromatography.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to determine the amounts of fluoride and aluminum released from different restorative materials stored in artificial saliva and double-distilled water. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Cylindrical specimens (10 x 1 mm) were prepared from 4 different restorative materials (Kavitan Plus, Vitremer, Dyract Extra, and Surefil). For each material, 20 specimens were prepared, 10 of which were stored in 5 mL artificial saliva and 10 of which were stored in 5 mL of double-distilled water. Concentrations of fluoride and aluminum in the solutions were measured using ion chromatography. Measurements were taken daily for one week and then weekly for two additional weeks. Data were analyzed using two-way ANOVA and Duncan's multiple range tests (p<0.05). RESULTS: The highest amounts of both fluoride and aluminum were released by the resin-modified glass ionomer cement Vitremer in double-distilled water (p<0.05). All materials released significantly more fluoride in double-distilled water than in artificial saliva (p<0.05). In artificial saliva, none of the materials were observed to release aluminum. CONCLUSION: It was concluded that storage media and method of analysis should be taken into account when the fluoride and aluminum release from dental materials is assessed.

Fluoride and aluminum release from restorative materials using ion chromatography

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to determine the amounts of fluoride and aluminum released from different restorative materials stored in artificial saliva and double-distilled water. Material and METHODS: Cylindrical specimens (10 x 1 mm) were prepared from 4 different restorative materials (Kavitan Plus, Vitremer, Dyract Extra, and Surefil). For each material, 20 specimens were prepared, 10 of which were stored in 5 mL artificial saliva and 10 of which were stored in 5 mL of double-distilled water. Concentrations of fluoride and aluminum in the solutions were measured using ion chromatography. Measurements were taken daily for one week and then weekly for two additional weeks. Data were analyzed using two-way ANOVA and Duncan's multiple range tests (p<0.05). RESULTS: The highest amounts of both fluoride and aluminum were released by the resin-modified glass ionomer cement Vitremer in double-distilled water (p<0.05). All materials released significantly more fluoride in double-distilled water than in artificial saliva (p<0.05). In artificial saliva, none of the materials were observed to release aluminum. CONCLUSION: It was concluded that storage media and method of analysis should be taken into account when the fluoride and aluminum release from dental materials is assessed.

Relationship between caries and dental plaque composition.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the relationship between dental caries and the biochemical composition of dental plaque and to determine the effect of a 10% sucrose solution on the biochemical structure of dental plaque in children. METHODS: 60 children grouped according to caries status took part in this study [Caries-free (CF), DMFS=0, df-s = 0; Caries-positive (CP), DMFS > or =10, df-s > or =10]. Dental plaque samples were collected before (baseline) and at 3 and 30 minutes after a 1-minute rinse with 10% sucrose. Fluoride (F), calcium (Ca), and inorganic phosphorus (Pi) levels were determined using ion chromatography, and insoluble polysaccharide (IEPS) concentrations were determined using colorimetric analysis. RESULTS: Although the mean baseline Ca and Pi levels in plaque were higher in the CF group than in the CP group, these differences were not statistically significant. Baseline IEPS levels were significantly higher in the CP group than in the CF group. Following exposure to sucrose, plaque F, Ca and Pi concentrations decreased significantly in both groups. However, insoluble polysaccharide concentrations increased significantly in the CF group only.