Thesis (doctoral)--Universiteit van Amsterdam, 1988.

Thesis (M. Sc.)--University of Alberta, 1998. / eContent provider-neutral record in process. Description based on print version record. Includes bibliographical references.

Thesis (M. Sc.)--University of Alberta, 1996. / eContent provider-neutral record in process. Description based on print version record. Includes bibliographical references.

Thesis (M. Sc.)--University of Alberta, 1998. / Includes bibliographical references.

Thesis (M.S.)--West Virginia University, 2010. / Title from document title page. Document formatted into pages; contains viii, 80 p. : ill. (some col.). Vita. Includes abstract. Includes bibliographical references (p. 65-73).

Thesis (Ph. D.)--University of Washington, 2000. / Vita. Includes bibliographical references (leaves 115-138).

Joint disorders significantly affect quality of life and present unique challenges for tissue engineering. In the craniofacial space, and especially for the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), there is an unmet need for anatomically precise and mechanically robust cartilage and bone tissues to recapitulate native function. Current surgical reconstruction methods, whether using autologous or synthetic options, suffer from imprecision, comorbidities, complications, and frequently require subsequent operations. Furthermore, many craniofacial graft efforts have focused on improving bone without addressing cartilage, which is essential to proper TMJ function. Thus, there is a compelling need to engineer a human-sized, biologically and anatomically matched cartilage-bone TMJ replacement. This dissertation demonstrates the ability to generate such a graft with native-like properties in a human-sized large animal model by focusing on two aims: (i) establish methods to fabricate and culture anatomically specific, autologous cartilage-bone grafts (Aim 1), and (ii) show improvement of graft performance after six months implantation in vivo compared to previous methods, controls, and native tissue (Aim 2). Using Yucatan mini-pigs as a human-sized model, the ramus-condyle unit (RCU), a geometrically intricate portion of the mandible and primary load bearing section of the TMJ, was targeted for reconstruction. Scaffolds were created using computer tomography (CT) image-guided micromilling of decellularized bone matrix, then infused with autologous adipose-derived chondrogenic and osteogenic progenitors. These biological constructs were then cultured in vitro in a novel dual-perfusion bioreactor before in vivo implantation. Similar in vitro culture of representative constructs done in parallel demonstrated cell attachment and some differentiation. After six months implantation, the dual cartilage-bone RCU grafts maintained their predefined anatomical structure and regenerated full-thickness, stratified, and mechanically robust cartilage over the underlying bone, to a significantly greater extent than either bone-only grafts or acellular scaffolds, and showed remarkable similarity to native tissue. Furthermore, tracking of implanted cells enabled additional insights into the progression of cartilage and bone regeneration. The methods and results established in this dissertation form a promising basis for the next evolution in engineering full-sized, patient-specific, and biologically and mechanically robust TMJ replacements.

A dissertation submitted in partial compliance with the requirements for the Master's Degree in Technology: Chiropractic, Durban Institute of Technology, 2002. / The aim of this point prevalence study was to compare the prevalence of temporomandibular joint dysfunction in recreational scuba divers and snorkiers, as opposed to non-divers, in terms of subjective findings. The Durban Metropolitan area diving population consisted of approximately 2500 divers and therefore the population size decided on was 200 divers and 200 non-divers. A total of 400 questionnaires were filled in with the participant's subjective data about their pain, limited mouth opening, and jaw joint noises. The divers were asked about their dive certification, and the number of dives done in order to establish whether they had dived within three months prior to participating in the study. The results were statistically analysed using chi-squared tests with the pvalue of a = 0.05. Tables and bar charts were constructed to visually represent the data and allow for descriptive analysis. The overall prevalence of TMJD in divers was 46.5% and in non-divers 54%. The chi-squared analysis shows no significant difference between the two groups. Among other findings, the relationship between the use of diving mouthpieces and TMJD was considered and it was established that 20% of divers, in this / M

M.Tech. / Purpose: Many diseases are very complex and this is especially true with temporomandibular disorders (TMDs). The lack of consensus on the aetiology, signs and symptoms and treatments available makes it extremely difficult for health care practitioners to treat TMDs. A clear definition of the condition itself has not been agreed on between many disciplines involved in the diagnoses and treatment of TMDs. Two competing definitions stand out in current literature. The physical medicine and dental professions define TMDs as various musculoskeletal disorders of the masticatory system. Some authors also stated that most patients with TMDs suffer primarily from a muscular disorder caused by masticatory myofascial trigger points (TrPs). The chiropractic profession defines TMDs as a group of somatic disorders that occur around the structurally integrated craniomandibular system but primarily affects the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) system. The term TMDs recognises that this craniomandibular pathology is a result of dysfunction in any structural area of the head or neck, not only the TMJ. This purpose of this study was to compare an adjustment treatment approach versus a soft tissue approach for the treatment of TMDs. Method: This study consisted of two groups; both the experimental and control groups consisted of 15 participants with TMDs. The participants were between the ages of 18 and 40 years. Potential participants were examined and accepted based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The experimental group received adjustments delivered to the TMJ and upper cervical spine, the control group received therapeutic ultrasound (U/S) to the xiv muscles of mastication. Objective and subjective findings were based on the treatments. Procedure: Each participant agreed to 6 treatment sessions and a seventh follow up session over a 4 week period. The participant completed a TMDs Disability Questionnaire. Algometer readings were taken over the masseter and temporalis TrPs bilaterally. Calliper readings measured the range of motion (ROM) of the TMJ, i.e. mandibular depression, protrusion and right and left deviation. The experimental group received adjustments to restricted segments of the TMJ and upper cervical spine as determined by motion palpation. The control group received therapeutic U/S to the masseter and temporalis muscles bilaterally. The same treatment procedures were administered over the study; subjective and objective readings were only taken again at visit 4 and 7. Results: In terms of subjective measurements based on the TMDs Disability Questionnaire scores, a statistically significant difference in the disability, severity and frequency of symptoms within the experimental and control groups individually, as well as the usual symptom intensity level within the control group was revealed. No statistically significant difference in terms of disability, frequency, severity and usual symptom intensity between the two treatment groups over time was revealed. In terms of objective measurements based on algometer readings, a statistically significant difference in the left masseter muscle and right temporalis muscle sensitivity within the experimental group individually was revealed. A statistically significant difference in the left masseter muscle and left temporalis muscle sensitivity within the control group individually was revealed. No statistically significant difference in muscle sensitivity between the groups over time was revealed. However, the control group showed a larger overall clinical significant difference in the masseter and temporalis muscle sensitivity bilaterally.

M.Tech.