Partial Restoration Research Articles

Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on acute ischemic stroke medical care: a prospective study

INTRODUCTION: Acute ischemic stroke (AIS) is not uncommon in patients with novel coronavirus infection. During the COVID-19 pandemic, an increase of the frequency of adverse clinical and functional outcomes of AIS was noted.OBJECTIVE: The recent study was to evaluate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the clinical and diagnostic characteristics of patients with AIS, as well as on the results of various types of treatment.MATERIALS AND METHODS: The prospective study included 460 patients with AIS after systemic or selective thrombolysis, thromboextraction and combination of thromboextraction with thrombolysis and stenting, hospitalized in 2019–2022: 55 patients in 2019, and in 2020–2022 — 405 patients. All patients were clinically evaluated using NIHSS and Rankin scales. Instrumental data included: assessment of computed tomography (CT) lesion size, extracranial and transcranial Duplex ultrasound (DUS) and computed angiography. Patients who received invasive treatment (thromboextraction, including in combination with thrombolysis or stenting) underwent cerebral angiography (CA). The characteristics of cerebral hemodynamics before and after the use of various types of treatment, clinical and functional outcomes were subject for comparison.Statistics: The statistical software Statistica 12.0, SPSS Statistics 17.0 were used. Normality of distribution was assessed using the Shapiro–Wilks test. Comparison of groups based on quantitative parameters was carried out using the Mann–Whitney U test. When testing statistical hypotheses, the acceptable level of error of the first type was considered to be a value not exceeding 0.05. To assess the correlation between parameters, the Spearman method was used.RESULTS: During the pandemic of COVID-19, patients with AIS were younger, had lower percentage of comorbidities and a higher NIHSS score. A significantly lower rate of favorable clinical and functional outcomes was obtained during the pandemic compared to the period before the pandemic, including after the use of invasive treatment methods: only 47% of patients had clinical improvement during the pandemic, while in 2019 the proportion of favorable outcomes was 64% (p=0.003). There was an increase in the share of pulmonary embolism and pneumonia in the structure of mortality from AIS during the pandemic (25% in the period before the pandemic vs 38% during the pandemic). Duplex ultrasound of cerebral arteries demonstrated high comparability with angiography data (correlation coefficient with invasive methods 0.84).DISCUSSION: According to the literature data, strokes are not uncommon in patients with COVID-19, especially in those with severe disease and risk factors. The authors consider thrombosis and/or thromboembolism of cerebral arteries to be possible ways of cerebral ischemia. According to Russian scientists, from the beginning of the pandemic, a significant increase in the incidence of ischemic stroke of varying severity was noted. The statistical pattern we identified confirms the data from literature sources that when infected with the SARS-CoV-2 virus, the brain and cerebral arteries are target organs. It is significant for clinical practice that we have evaluated the clinical and instrumental characteristics of these lesions in relatively homogeneous gender, age and clinical groups.CONCLUSION: The incidence of favorable clinical and functional outcomes during the pandemic was significantly lower compared to the pre-pandemic period. Complete and partial restoration of blood flow, as well as a decrease in the ischemic focus, were significantly more common before the pandemic. The effectiveness of invasive methods of cerebral revascularization during the pandemic were also lower. Duplex ultrasound serves as a reliable method not only for primary diagnosis, but also for dynamic monitoring. Initial changes in hemodynamics in patients with AIS before and during the pandemic did not differ significantly and were represented by hypoperfusion with a decrease in peripheral resistance. In 2020–2022 after treatment, hypoperfusion was observed significantly more often, which can be considered as one of the reasons for the less favorable clinical and functional outcomes obtained during the pandemic.

Biventricular finite element modeling of the fetal heart in health and during critical aortic stenosis.

Finite Element simulations are a robust way of investigating cardiac biomechanics. To date, it has only been performed with the left ventricle (LV) alone for fetal hearts, even though results are likely different with biventricular (BiV) simulations. In this research, we conduct BiV simulations of the fetal heart based on 4D echocardiography images to show that it can capture the biomechanics of the normal healthy fetal heart, as well as those of fetal aortic stenosis better than the LV alone simulations. We found that performing LV alone simulations resulted in overestimation of LV stresses and pressures, compared to BiV simulations. Interestingly, inserting a compliance between the LV and right ventricle (RV) in the lumped parameter model of the LV only simulation effectively resolved these overestimations, demonstrating that the septum could be considered to play a LV-RV pressure communication role. However, stresses and strains spatial patterns remained altered from BiV simulations after the addition of the compliance. The BiV simulations corroborated previous studies in showing disease effects on the LV, where fetal aortic stenosis (AS) drastically elevated LV pressures and reduced strains and stroke volumes, which were moderated down with the addition of mitral regurgitation (MR). However, BiV simulations enabled an evaluation of the RV as well, where we observed that effects of the AS and MR on pressures and stroke volumes were generally much smaller and less consistent. The BiV simulations also enabled investigations of septal dynamics, which showed a rightward shift with AS, and partial restoration with MR. Interestingly, AS tended to enhance RV stroke volume, but MR moderated that down.

Nanoparticles Partially Restore Bacterial Susceptibility to Antibiotics.

The growing resistance of bacteria to antibiotics is one of the main public health problems nowadays. The influence of silver nanoparticle (AgNP) pretreatment of 220 cows with mastitis on the susceptibility of Staphylococcus epidermidis bacteria to 31 antibiotics was studied. The obtained results were compared with the previous results for Escherichia coli, Streptococcus dysgalactiae, and Staphylococcus aureus. For all four bacteria, an increase in susceptibility (9.5-21.2%) to 31 antibiotics after cow treatment with AgNPs was revealed, while after first-line antibiotic drug treatment as expected, the susceptibility decreased (11.3-27.3%). These effects were explained by (1) the increase in the contribution of isolates with efflux effect after antibiotic treatments and its decrease after AgNP treatment and (2) the changes in bacteria adhesion and anti-lysozyme activity after these treatments. The effect of the increasing antibacterial activity of antibiotics after AgNP treatment was the most pronounced in the case of E. coli and was minimal in the case of S. epidermidis. With AgNP treatment, the time of recovery decreased by 26.8-48.4% compared to the time of recovery after treatment with the first-line antibiotic drugs. The AgNP treatment allows for achieving the partial restoration of the activity of antibiotics.

Rehabilitation management of postmenopausal osteoporosis associated with degenerative neurological conditions

Abstract: Background: The evolving association of neurological disorders such as Parkinson's disease (PD) and stroke may aggravate postmenopausal osteoporosis. In this situation, inactivity and lack of movement are the main factors that contribute contribute to exacerbate osteoporosis and the occurrence of osteoporotic fractures. Material and Methods: We present the case of a 62-year-old female patient diagnosed with diffuse postmenopausal osteoporosis, Parkinson's dis-ease, and left frontal ischemic lacuna. 6 months before admission to our rehabilitation clinic, she suffered a trauma by falling that resulted in an L3 vertebral fracture and a right forearm fracture. L2-L4 posterior segmental spinal fusion and right forearm osteosynthesis were performed. Post-operatively, a motor deficit was found in the lower limbs. She was diagnosed clinically and fol-lowing neurophysiological investigations with bilateral external popliteal sciatic nerve paresis. In these circumstances, the patient suffered a new trauma, resulting in an open fracture at the same level of the right forearm which also required surgical treatment. Results and discussion: Following the rehabilitation program, the evolution was favorable with improved functioning and partial restoration of walking. Conclusion: The association of degenerative neurological and bone meta-bolic diseases in this case led to significant disability, making the rehabilitation process more challenging.

3D-printed intracoronal restorations, occlusal and laminate veneers: Clinical relevance, properties, and behavior compared to milled restorations; a systematic review and meta-analysis.

To assess the feasibility of producing 3D-printed intracoronal restorations, thin and ultrathin veneers, and to compare their mechanical behavior, accuracy, biological, and stain susceptibility to the currently applied milled restorations. The databases were comprehensively searched for relevant records up to January 2024 without language restrictions. All studies that assessed 3D-printed partial coverage restorations including inlays, onlays, laminate, and occlusal veneers were retrieved. The web search yielded a total of 1142 records, with 8 additional records added from websites at a later stage. Only 17 records were ultimately included in the review. The included records compared 3D-printed; alumina-based- and zirconia ceramics, lithium disilicate ceramics, polymer infiltrated ceramics, polyetheretherketone (PEEK), resin composites, and acrylic resins to their CNC milled analogs. The pooled data indicated that it is possible to produce ultrathin restorations with a thickness of less than 0.2 mm. 3D-printed laminate veneers and intracoronal restorations exhibited superior trueness, as well as better marginal and internal fit compared to milled restorations (p < 0.05). However, it should be noted that the choice of materials and preparation design may influence these outcomes. In terms of cost, the initial investment and production expenses associated with 3D printing were significantly lower than those of CNC milling technology. Additionally, 3D printing was also shown to be more time-efficient. Using additive manufacturing technology to produce restorations with a thickness ranging from 0.1 to 0.2 mm is indeed feasible. The high accuracy of these restorations, contributes to their ability to resist caries progression, surpassing the minimum clinical threshold load of failure by a significant margin and reliable adhesion. However, before 3D-printed resin restorations can be widely adopted for clinical applications, further improvements are needed, particularly in terms of reducing their susceptibility to stains. 3D-printed intracoronal restorations and veneers are more time and cost-efficient, more accurate, and could provide a considerable alternative to the currently applied CNC milling. Some limitations still accompany the resin materials, but this could be overcome by further development of the materials and printing technology.

Інститут реабілітації незаконно засуджених осіб як важлива компонента розвитку правової системи України

This article examines the institution of rehabilitation of illegally convicted persons in the legal system of Ukraine. It was determined that the rehabilitation of illegally convicted persons in the legal system of Ukraine is an important step for ensuring justice and restoring trust in justice. It has been studied that the institution of rehabilitation of illegally convicted persons plays an important role in the legal system of Ukraine, having a significant impact on the development of justice and the protection of human rights. It is highlighted that the purpose of rehabilitation is to make decisions that will contribute to the full or partial restoration of all rights and freedoms of illegally convicted or illegally persecuted persons, as well as compensation for property and moral damage caused to them, and their integration into society as full-fledged citizens. The main values of the institution of rehabilitation of illegally convicted persons in the legal system of Ukraine are highlighted: 1) restoration of justice; 2) provision of compensation; 3) strengthening of trust in the judicial system; 4) prevention of judicial errors; 5) guaranteeing human rights. The article emphasizes two types of rehabilitation: 1) full rehabilitation, which provides for the complete release of a person from criminal responsibility or from serving a sentence (after an acquittal is rendered or after the proceedings are closed on rehabilitation grounds); 2) partial rehabilitation - occurs when only some measures of procedural coercion are recognized as illegal, but the criminal proceedings are ongoing at the same time. It is concluded that the institution of rehabilitation of illegally convicted persons in the legal system of Ukraine is a key mechanism for ensuring justice and protecting human rights. It is designed to restore the violated rights and freedoms of victims, giving them the opportunity to rehabilitate in society and return to a normal life. This institution also plays an important role in improving citizens' trust in the judicial system and state institutions.

Minor philology: Aphorisms

ABSTRACT This small aphoristic intervention aims to slightly shift fundamental concepts, canons, methods, and attitudes in the reemerging field of philology from the perspective of marginalized minority experience. Prompted by Tocqueville's formulations regarding the ‘tyranny of the majority,' these aphorisms equate the tactics of minor philology with those of guerilla warfare. The emphasis on mobility, commitment, and integration with larger currents has the potential, if not to render majoritarian tyranny ineffective, at least to mitigate it. The recapture of philological power by the minor allows the partial restoration of colonized traditions, reconfiguring distinct canons and connections across expansive world-textual fields.

Macroinvertebrate and environmental responses to dredging and submerged macrophytes transplantation

Abstract Eutrophication of freshwater ecosystems is a global problem, but restoration can be difficult due to ongoing problems relating to water pollution, sedimentary nutrient stores and altered aquatic biodiversity. Mitigation of Eutrophication is often conducted alongside transplantation of submerged macrophytes and dredging, but knowledge of ecosystem response to post‐dredging transplantation of submerged macrophytes is limited. We report a long‐term (2008–2018) in situ monitoring study to evaluate the effects of different restoration measures: dredging only (Dredged) and dredged with post‐transplantation of submerged macrophytes (Dredged with macrophytes) conducted in five subtropical eutrophic lakes, Taihu basin. Water and sediment nutrients, bloom‐forming algae Microcystis and macroinvertebrate were monitored every 2 years for each treatment and compared with reference areas (Control) established in unrestored parts of the same lake. Dredging only decreased sediment nutrients (e.g. carbon, phosphorus) significantly; however, this effect diminished about 5 years later. Dredged with macrophytes had a stronger, longer lasting positive effect on water quality than dredged alone. Disturbance caused by dredging (without macrophytes transplantation) decreased the biomass of Microcystis, while transplantation of macrophytes shortly after dredging did not contribute to the decreasing of Microcystis biomass. The biomass of Microcystis in Dredged with macrophytes areas was always similar to Control over the period of our monitoring. A positive effect of submerged macrophytes transplantation post‐dredging was found for macroinvertebrate abundance and diversity: Dredged with macrophytes areas had significantly higher macroinvertebrate biomass and richness than Dredged areas after 9 years' recovery. Macroinvertebrate richness in Dredged with macrophytes areas nearly doubled compared to Control, while Dredged areas were just restored to Control levels. Synthesis and applications: Our study provides an long‐term field monitoring with new findings about the benefits and caution of submerged macrophytes transplantation post‐dredging and the effect of partial restoration, which could inform eutrophic waterbody restoration schemes.

Different Patterns of Platinum Resistance in Ovarian Cancer Cells with Homologous Recombination Proficient and Deficient Background.

Platinum compounds are very active in first-line treatments of ovarian carcinoma. In fact, high rates of complete remission are achieved, but most patients eventually relapse with resistant disease. Many mechanisms underlying the platinum-resistant phenotype have been reported. However, there are no data in the same isogenic cell system proficient and deficient in homologous recombination (HR) on platinum-acquired resistance that might unequivocally clarify the most important mechanism associated with resistance. We generated and characterized cisplatin (DDP)-resistant murine ovarian ID8 cell lines in a HR-deficient and -proficient background. Specific upregulation of the NER pathway in the HR-proficient and -resistant cells and partial restoration of HR in Brca1-/--resistant cells were found. Combinations of different inhibitors of the DNA damage response pathways with cisplatin were strongly active in both resistant and parental cells. The data from the ID8 isogenic system are in line with current experimental and clinical evidence and strongly suggest that platinum resistance develops in different ways depending on the cell DNA repair status (i.e., HR-proficient or HR-deficient), and the upregulation and/or restoration of repair pathways are major determinants of DDP resistance.

A phase I/IIa safety and efficacy trial of intratympanic gamma-secretase inhibitor as a regenerative drug treatment for sensorineural hearing loss

Inhibition of Notch signalling with a gamma-secretase inhibitor (GSI) induces mammalian hair cell regeneration and partial hearing restoration. In this proof-of-concept Phase I/IIa multiple-ascending dose open-label trial (ISRCTN59733689), adults with mild-moderate sensorineural hearing loss received 3 intratympanic injections of GSI LY3056480, in 1 ear over 2 weeks. Phase I primary outcome was safety and tolerability. Phase lla primary outcome was change from baseline to 12 weeks in average pure-tone air conduction threshold across 2,4,8 kHz. Secondary outcomes included this outcome at 6 weeks and change from baseline to 6 and 12 weeks in pure-tone thresholds at individual frequencies, speech reception thresholds (SRTs), Distortion Product Otoacoustic Emissions (DPOAE) amplitudes, Signal to Noise Ratios (SNRs) and distribution of categories normal, present-abnormal, absent and Hearing Handicap Inventory for Adults/Elderly (HHIA/E). In Phase I (N = 15, 1 site) there were no severe nor serious adverse events. In Phase IIa (N = 44, 3 sites) the average pure-tone threshold across 2,4,8 kHz did not change from baseline to 6 and 12 weeks (estimated change −0.87 dB; 95% CI −2.37 to 0.63; P = 0.252 and −0.46 dB; 95% CI −1.94 to 1.03; P = 0.545, respectively), nor did the means of secondary measures. DPOAE amplitudes, SNRs and distribution of categories did not change from baseline to 6 and 12 weeks, nor did SRTs and HHIA/E scores. Intratympanic delivery of LY3056480 is safe and well-tolerated; the trial’s primary endpoint was not met.

Impurity states in non-concentric spherical core-shell quantum dot

It was suggested the model of the non-concentric spherical core-shell quantum dot with hydrogenic impurity. It has been defined that the electron energy spectrum as a function of both an impurity and the core location. The splitting and degeneration of energy levels has been discussed. It is shown that displacing the core of a quantum dot or impurity in opposite directions can lead to alternate splitting and degeneracy of the energy levels of excited states. In certain configurations of arrangements, compensatory effects associated with the partial restoration of spherical symmetry in the field are observed.

Functional state of team sports athletes in the annual training cycle

Determination of the dynamics of the functional state of the musculoskeletal system of team sports athletes in the annual training cycle. The achievement of this goal will allow for providing scientifically-based management of training and competitive processes in the annual training cycle and contribute to the normalization of the functional state of the athlete's musculoskeletal system. The authors assessed the functional state of the musculoskeletal system of athletes involved in football, handball, and field hockey, using goniometry, and stabilometry, as well as testing physical abilities, associated with the flexibility of the joints (forward bend from a standing position (on the bench), bridge, transverse and longitudinal (best of 2 possible), splits). Testing was conducted during the annual training cycle, after the competitive period, and at the beginning and at the end of the preparatory period. Assessment of the functional state of the musculoskeletal system of athletes at the end of the competition period showed the low and below average flexibility levels. Static support ability (stabilometry) and joint mobility (goniometry) were below average and average levels. Decrease in static support ability testified to violations of the vestibular apparatus and proprioceptive sensitivity, which have a significant impact on balance. The low results of joint flexibility and mobility indicated the lack of elasticity of the musculoskeletal apparatus, which indicated the presence of overstrain. Diagnosed positive changes in the state of the musculoskeletal system of athletes at the beginning and at the end of the preparatory period, regardless of the team sport, indicated a partial restoration of the functional state of the musculoskeletal system during the transition period. According to the results of the study, recommendations were given for including in the training process, along with prestretching, corrective and preventive exercises based on the use of the myofascial relaxation technique, which contribute to the restoration of the functional state of the musculoskeletal system of team sports athletes. Keywords: football players, handball players, hockey players, functional state, musculoskeletal system, flexibility, stabilometry, goniometry.

Incomplete remyelination via endogenous or therapeutically enhanced oligodendrogenesis is sufficient to recover visual cortical function.

Myelin loss induces deficits in action potential propagation that result in neural dysfunction and contribute to the pathophysiology of neurodegenerative diseases, injury conditions, and aging. Because remyelination is often incomplete, better understanding endogenous remyelination and developing remyelination therapies that seek to restore neural function are clinical imperatives. Here, we used in vivo two-photon microscopy and electrophysiology to study the dynamics of endogenous and therapeutic-induced cortical remyelination and functional recovery after cuprizone-mediated demyelination in mice. We focused on the visual pathway, which is uniquely positioned to provide insights into structure-function relationships during de/remyelination. We show that endogenous remyelination is driven by recent oligodendrocyte loss and is highly efficacious following mild demyelination, but fails to restore the oligodendrocyte population when high rates of oligodendrocyte loss occur too quickly. Testing a novel thyromimetic compared to clemastine fumarate, we find it better enhances oligodendrocyte gain during remyelination and hastens recovery of neuronal function. Surprisingly, its therapeutic benefit was temporally restricted, and it acted exclusively following moderate to severe demyelination to eliminate endogenous remyelination deficits. However, complete remyelination is unnecessary as partial oligodendrocyte restoration was sufficient to recover visual neuronal function. These findings advance our understanding of remyelination and its impact on functional recovery to inform future therapeutic strategies.

Fracture Strength of Six-Unit Anterior Fixed Provisional Restorations Fabricated Using Various Dental CAD/CAM Systems.

This study compares the fracture strengths of long-span fixed provisional restorations fabricated via digital additive and subtractive methods to those fabricated via conventional heat-processing techniques. A six-unit anterior partial restoration was designed as an anatomical and morphologic structure using a dental CAD/CAM system. The provisional restorations (N = 40) of four different fabrication methods (n = 10 per group) were used for the failure loading test: stereolithography apparatus (SLA), liquid crystal display (LCD), milling (MIL), and heat-processed temporary (HPT). The specimens were subjected to a maximum load-to-fracture test using a universal testing machine, and the representative fracture patterns were observed. Statistical analysis was performed using Shapiro-Wilk, Kruskal-Wallis, Mann-Whitney U, and Bonferroni post hoc tests (P < .05). The four groups showed significant differences in fracture strength according to the materials and manufacturing methods used (P < .001, except between SLA and HPT groups). The fracture strengths of MIL and LCD digitally fabricated groups were significantly higher than that of the HPT group (P < .001). The subtractive method is ideal for fabricating long-span fixed provisional restorations for long-term use. Additionally, LCD additive manufacturing technology could soon be a good alternative for restorations.

Analysis of Strain Distribution in Common Clinical Designs of Posterior Implant-Supported Fixed Partial Restorations: Comparison between Six Configurations.

The configuration of implant-supported prostheses is considered to influence the magnitude of stress concentrations, affecting their survival rate. The purpose of this study is to determine, through strain gauge measurements during load application, the dispersion and magnitude of strain concentrations in different implant-supported prosthesis designs. All designs matched those commonly used in posterior partially edentulous states. Three implants were inserted into an epoxy resin model (PLM-4B Vishay Measurements Group Inc., Raleigh, NC, USA), allowing for the delivery of three- and four-unit crowns in different cemented configurations. Loads were applied at vertical and oblique directions over the cast crowns in six different configurations representing various posterior partially edentulous restorations. The readings from the strain gauges adhered to the implant necks' presented data on implant strain. Prostheses including cantilevers showed the highest strain among the three-unit prostheses within the prosthetic complex, and three single units showed the least (8133 µs vs. 201 µs, respectively). Angulated load application also had a role in amplifying the strains recorded, resulting in total strains of between 3.5 and 20 times higher than during vertical loading in all configurations. It can be concluded that the configuration of implant-fixed partial prosthesis changes the loads engaging the restoration, the implant, and, probably, the supporting bone.

The Inflammation/NF-κB and BDNF/TrkB/CREB Pathways in the Cerebellum Are Implicated in the Changes in Spatial Working Memory After Both Morphine Dependence and Withdrawal in Rat.

We aimed to explore the impact of the cerebellum on the decline in spatial working memory following morphine dependence and withdrawal. Two groups of male Wistar rats received intraperitoneal injections of either saline (1ml/kg) or morphine (10mg/kg) twice daily for 10days, serving as the control and dependent groups. Additionally, a withdrawal group underwent a 30-day withdrawal period after the dependence phase. Spatial working memory was assessed using a Y maze test. ELISA and western blot were used to assess protein levels in the cerebellum. On day 1, morphine impaired spatial working memory, deteriorated further after 10days of morphine use, and nearly returned to its initial level following a 30-day withdrawal period. On day 10, significant increases in TNF-α, IL-1β, and CXCL12 and a notable decrease in IL-10 levels were detected in the morphine-dependent group, which did not completely restore in the withdrawal group. The protein levels of CXCR4, TLR4, P2X7R, and NF-κB sharply increased in the morphine-dependent group. However, these levels almost returned to normal after withdrawal. In the morphine-dependent group, BDNF decreased, while TrkB and CREB1 increased noticeably. Nevertheless, after withdrawal, TrkB and CREB1 but not BDNF levels returned to normal. In the morphine-dependent group, both CACNA1 and KCNMA1 decreased significantly and after withdrawal, only KCNMA1 showed partial restoration, while CACNA1 did not. It can be concluded that inflammation/NF-κB and BDNF/TrkB/CREB pathways play key roles in neural adaptation within the cerebellum, contributing to the decline in spatial working memory after both morphine dependence and withdrawal.

The post-COVID-19 intestinal damages: clinical, endoscopic and morphological features. The results of a single-center prospective observational cohort study

Background: Clinical signs of gastrointestinal disorders can manifest both from the first days of COVID-19 and after recovery, and may last up to 6 months or more. Most studies examined the gastrointestinal changes in acute coronavirus infection, whereas intestinal abnormalities in the early and late post-COVID period and their causes have not been sufficiently studied.&#x0D; Aim: To determine the frequency and types of clinical, endoscopic and morphological abnormalities in patients with post-COVID-19 intestinal lesions.&#x0D; Materials and methods: This was a prospective, observational, open-label, cohort, non-controlled study in 72 patients with intestinal symptoms after the coronavirus infection (female 48, mean age 54.6 (95% confidence interval 51.08–58.12) years), who were admitted to the Department of Gastroenterology of general hospital during the first and second waves of COVID-19 from June 2020 to September 2021. The assessment included routine anamnestic, clinical, laboratory, endoscopic, and morphological methods. When indicated, visualization methods (ultrasound, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging) were performed. The treatment was symptom-oriented and aimed at inflammation, anemia and protein and electrolyte abnormalities. Outcomes were assessed by the time of discharge from the hospital and thereafter by telephone interviewing of the patients for 8 weeks.&#x0D; Results: In all patients, the main symptom was diarrhea, which started right just after SARS-CoV-2 infection with negative PCR test or 2–4 weeks later. The average stool frequency was 6.8 (5.61–7.99) times daily. In 19/72 patients (26.4%), there were blood and mucus in stools. 2.8% of the patients developed massive intestinal bleeding. Fever was present in 40.3% of the patients, decreased hemoglobin levels in 44.4%, and hypoalbuminemia in 16.7%. Signs of systemic inflammation (increased erythrocyte sedimentation rate, C-reactive protein, fibrinogen, thrombocytosis, leukocytosis) were found with various frequencies in a half of the patients. Clostridioides difficile A and B toxins were identified in 38.9% of the cases and increased fecal calprotectin in 22.2%.&#x0D; Ileocolonoscopy was performed in 67 patients. The colonic mucosa in 21 (31.3%) patients either was not different from the normal, or showed minimal inflammatory changes such as absence of vascular pattern, hyperemia, mild friability even in patients with severe diarrhea, fever and laboratory abnormalities. Pseudomembranous colitis was diagnosed in 12 (17.9%) patients, and focal hemorrhagic colitis in 11 (16.4%) patients. In 2 (3%) cases, moderate to severe ulcerative colitis was newly diagnosed after the SARS-CoV-2 infection. Single or multiple erosions and ulcers of various sizes against the unchanged surrounding mucosa were found in 19 (28.4%) patients. In 2 (3%) cases with profuse intestinal bleeding, the endoscopy showed diffuse spontaneous bleedings from colonic mucosa, with no local source of bleeding found.&#x0D; Biopsy samples from colonic mucosa were taken from 47 patients. Morphological abnormalities of only moderate or dense lymphoplasmocytic infiltration were detected in 29 (67.7%) patients, erosions in 8 (17%). In 2 (4.3%) cases, highly dense lymphoid infiltration with neutrophils, eosinophils and crypt abscesses was found, as typical for ulcerative colitis. In 2 (4.3%) patients, the lymphoid infiltration was associated with small venular and arteriolar clots, and in 5 (10.6%) patients there were no significant morphological abnormalities, except mild lymphoid infiltration.&#x0D; During the hospitalization period, 56.9% of the patients showed a decrease in stool frequency, improvement of clinical and laboratory signs of systemic inflammation and metabolic abnormalities, and partial restoration of their body weight. One patient with ulcerative colitis received adalimumab and achieved stable clinical and endoscopic remission. Complete recovery was noted in 27.8% of the cases within 4–8 weeks, among them in 1 patient who had had profuse intestinal bleedings. In 3 cases (4.2%), an emergency colectomy was performed due to severe pseudomembranous colitis. Two (2.8%) deaths were registered: one patient with newly diagnosed post-COVID severe ulcerative colitis died of pneumonia, and another patient died of severe multiorgan failure. In 6 (8.3%) cases, a moderate long-term (above 8 weeks) diarrhea with metabolic disorders, weight loss, but without systemic inflammation was noted.&#x0D; Conclusion: In patients with post-COVID intestinal lesions, the clinical symptoms are almost the identical and manifest with diarrhea of varying severity, systemic inflammation and metabolic disorders, whereas the endoscopic and morphological lesions are quite diverse. The severity of clinical symptoms often does not correspond to poorly expressed endoscopic and morphological signs. The variability and inconsistency of the clinical, endoscopic and morphological changes have not yet been systematized and do not allow for a clearly formulated diagnosis (except cases of pseudomembranous and ulcerative colitis). This makes it impossible to provide pathophysiologically-based treatments.

Effects of Varying Dietary Levels of Hibiscus rosa sinensis Leaves Powder on Growth and Gonads Development in Nile Tilapia Oreochromis Niloticus (Linnaeus, 1758)

Aims: The purpose of this study was to explore the possible use of Hibiscus rosa sinensis leaf powder as a reproductive inhibitor in Oreochromis niloticus&#x0D; Place and Duration of Study: From 10th February to 21st June 2021 at the Kanhé-Moyo Integrated Fisheries and Aquaculture Research and Application Farm located in the locality of Baho'o belonging to the Baham District,in the West Region of Cameroon&#x0D; Study Design: 720 Oreochromis niloticus fingerlings with an average weight of 13±2.5g were randomly distributed in 12 happas arranged in an earthen pond measuring approximately 10 x 20 m and fed 3 experimental diets, formulated from a control diet to contain Hibiscus rosa sinensis leaf powder at doses of 3.5, 4.5 and 5.5 g/kg of feed respectively.&#x0D; Methodology: After 45 days post-treatment, survival and zootechnical growth parameters were assessed. Histological examination of the gonads was used to determine the impact of treatment on gonadal development at 45 and 65 days post-treatment respectively.&#x0D; Results: The results show that the different treatments had a similar effect on survival (P˃0.05), with an average value of 97.91 ± 3.81%. Analysis of the growth parameters of fishes from the different batches treated with different doses of H. rosa sinensis leaf powder revealed that the dose of 4.5 g/kg of H. rosa sinensis had a significantly greater effect than the other treatments applied in terms of Mean Final Weight (with a mean value of 24.77±0.27g), Mean Weight Gain (with a mean value of 3.63±1.18 g), mean specific growth rate (with a mean value of 1.13 ± 0.40%/day) and Mean Daily Gain (with a mean value of 0.25±0.08 g/d). However, analysis of the gonado somatic index at 45 and 60 days post-treatment of batches treated with different doses of H. rosa sinensis leaves revealed a significantly higher effect of the 3.5 g/kg dose on the gonado somatic index in both males and females. Observation of the testicular structures of the males from the treated batches revealed alterations reflecting an inhibition of gonadal development, which justifies the low gonado somatic index values observed in these different treated batches compared with the control batches. These alterations were also observed in the ovarian tissues of the treated females both at 45 and 60 days post-treatment. However, observations of the gonadal structures of satellite males and females at 60 days post-treatment revealed partial restoration of gonadal tissue in both males and females.&#x0D; Conclusion: The results of this study indicate that Hibiscus rosa sinensis leaves could be used as an alternative ecological method for inhibiting reproduction in Oreochromis niloticus. The results will help local producer networks to improve tilapia production.

Ecological Restoration of Habitats Based on Avian Diversity and Landscape Patterns—A Case Study of Haining Mining Pit Park in Zhejiang, China

The development of the mining park has impacted the richness of bird diversity. Coordinating the harmonious coexistence of humans and birds is a core issue for the sustainable development of the mining park. This study aims to investigate the relationship between landscape patterns and bird diversity and propose ecological restoration strategies for the mining park. Through field surveys and fixed-transect methods, the existing dominant bird species in the mining park were surveyed. The Shannon index was used to analyze the level of bird diversity in the mining park. A site plan of the mining park was drawn, and ArcGIS 10.8 and Fragstats 4.2 software were used to statistically analyze the landscape patterns of the mining park. The results of the two data sets were compared and analyzed to determine the relationship between landscape patterns and bird diversity. A total of eight landscape types were identified, and diversity indices, including the H (Shannon diversity index), F (species richness index), G (genus richness index), and G-F indices, were calculated. Existing issues in the site include diverse aquatic landscape types but poor connectivity, heterogeneous rocky landscape, bird habitat degradation, and frequent human interference. Proposed solutions include building ecological floating islands (habitat-type floating islands, restoration-type floating islands) to connect patches; comprehensive restoration combining full and partial restoration to restore bird habitats and increase vegetation coverage of rocky patches; low human interference design through ecological protection control zones, landscape functional zones, and park road design to create an environment for bird habitats and a mining park landscape suitable for leisure recreation, creating a new home for cohabitation between humans and birds. The research results indicate that landscape pattern diversity, heterogeneity, fragmentation, and human interference affect the richness of bird diversity. Ecological restoration, plant cultivation, and zoning planning can transform the site, enhance the landscape, and provide theoretical support and practical guidance for the creation of habitats for similar bird species.

Is immediate dentin sealing a mandatory or optional clinical step for indirect restorations?

The use of immediate dentin sealing (IDS) following tooth preparation for indirect restorations is well-supported by laboratory studies. The inclusion of IDS as a mandatory clinical step, it must be firmly supported by evidence from randomized clinical trials (RCT). The objective of this study is to assess whether IDS should be added as a mandatory procedure in all indirect restorations, taking into consideration clinically significant outcomes for the patient, such as restoration longevity and hypersensitivity. A bibliographic search was carried out in the PubMed. In addition, a manual search was conducted in the references of literature reviews. Data from four RCT were included. Two studies assessed preparations for full crowns, and two assessed preparations for partial restorations. Data from full crown preparations were subjected to a meta-analysis, revealing a reduction in hypersensitivity incidence in the IDS group 1 week after restoration cementation. With respect to hypersensitivity, IDS seems to offer advantages exclusively during the provisional phase and up to 1 week following the cementation of the final restoration. One study has shown no difference on longevity. The use of IDS should be considered as an elective clinical step during the rehabilitation with indirect restorations. IDS is an elective clinical step that should be considered in patients and preparations with a higher risk of sensitivity between appointments.