Subgroups Ib Research Articles

EVALUATION OF SHEAR BOND STRENGTH OF RESIN COMPOSITE TO ENAMEL SURFACE OF PERMANENT TEETH ERODED BY TWO CARBONATED BEVERAGES (IN VITRO STUDY)

INTRODUCTION: Dental hard tissue loss is one of the most challenging problems in dentistry. It is caused mainly by two factors, dental caries and erosion. OBJECTIVES: Evaluating and comparing in vitro the effect of two carbonated beverages on bonding of resin-composite material to human permanent enamel surface. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty-four sound human permanent teeth were prepared and divided randomly according to exposure media into two equal groups (I and II). Each group was divided into two subgroups. Subgroups Ia and IIa served as experimental subgroups. Subgroups Ib and IIb were protected from the challenge and served as control. Group I: specimens were exposed to Coca-Cola Regular, group II: specimens were exposed to Fanta Orange; 3x/ 1 minute. Between the challenges, they were stored in artificial saliva for a total of 24 hours. They were then, restored with Adper Single Bond 2/ Filtek Z350 XT nanofilled composite. All specimens were subjected to shear bond strength test. RESULTS: Mann-Whitney U test and Kruskal-Wallis were used to evaluate the difference between the tested groups. Composite material in eroded specimens showed lower bond strength than that in uneroded specimens with no significant difference between the two-erosive media (P>0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Retention of composite resin to enamel surface was affected by acidic soft drinks as evidenced by lower shear bond strength.

English

This study characterized Cucumber mosaic virus (CMV) infecting pepper in Southwestern Nigeria with the aim of providing up-to-date information on the taxonomic subgroup(s) of the parading strains in the study area. Fifty pepper leaf samples with one or more symptoms of mottling, mosaic, necrosis, leaf distortion and stunting were collected from eight commercial farms across Southwestern Nigeria and screened for CMV using antigen coated plate enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ACP-ELISA). From the seropositive samples, four representative samples were selected, labelled PSWN1-4 before subjected to reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and nucleic acid sequencing using a pair of primers specific for the amplification of RNA 3 genomic fragment of CMV. These were followed by multiple nucleotide sequence alignment and phylogenetic estimations of the isolates alongside selected CMV strains that were reported in previous studies using the molecular evolutionary genetics analysis (MEGA) software. The result of the ACP-ELISA test revealed that 14 (28%) of the samples collected were positive for CMV infection. The resulting nucleotide sequences from RT-PCR revealed 98% nucleotide homologies with several corresponding sequences of CMV strains from the Genbank. Further analysis of the PSWN nucleotide sequences through multiple nucleotide sequence alignment revealed the absence of the EcoR1 restriction site found only within the examined genomic portion of RNA 3 of subgroup II strains. These features defined the detected isolates as subgroup I strains. Phylogenetic analysis and estimations of genetic distances, conclusively distinguished the pepper-infecting CMV isolates from Southwestern Nigeria as members of subgroups IA and IB, which are the most virulent subgroups. Key words: Cucumber mosaic virus (CMV), pepper, Southwestern Nigeria.

Genome-wide identification, expression, and interaction analysis for ovate family proteins in peach.

Ovate family proteins (OFPs), which are involved in aspects of plant development and growth, is a class of plant-specific transcription factors. Although OFPs have been reported in some species, little is known about their evolution, structure, fruit developmental expression, and interactions among OFP members in peach (Prunus persica). In this study, 15 peach OFP (PpOFP) genes were identified. Phylogenetic analysis showed that 716 OFPs from 32 species were divided into 15 subgroups; 10 subgroups (Ia, Ib, Ic, Id, Ie, If, Ig, Ih, Ii, and Ij) were composed of dicotyledonous plants only and five (IIa, IIb, IIc, IId, and IIe) were composed of monocotyledonous plants only. Structure analysis showed that the OFP genes in monocotyledonous and dicotyledonous plants had no introns. Chromosomal localization analysis showed that 15 PpOFP genes were unevenly mapped on seven chromosomes. Furthermore, eight of the 15 PpOFP genes were cloned successfully by the RT-PCR method. To some extent, eight PpOFPs were expressed in all the detected peach tissues. In addition, analysis by Y2H and BiFC technologies indicated that both PpOFP4 and PpOFP5 formed homodimers with themselves, and PpOFP5 interacted with PpOFP7 or PpOFP8 to form heterodimers. These results serve as the theoretical basis for the analysis of the biological function and regulation of peach OFP transcription factors in the growth, development and other conditions, as well as evolution studies of OFP transcription factors in higher plants.

Changes in parameters of hemodynamics in abdominal delivery with different methods of anesthesia

Aim. To study and evaluate changes in the basic parameters of central and peripheral hemodynamics of the maternal organs in caesarean section (CS) with different methods of anesthesia.Materials and methods. 127 pregnant women were divided into 4 subgroups: Ia (n=31) – general anesthesia (GA) using Ketamine, Ib (n=31) – GA with Sodium Thiopental, IIa (n=31) – spinal anesthesia (SA), IIb (n=34) – SA with Ondansetron 8 mg intravenous. The assessment was performed in 5 stages: 1 – initial; 2 – beginning of operation; 3 – fetal extraction; 4 – end of operation; 5 – 12 hours after operation. The main indicators of hemodynamics were analyzed: systolic (SAP), diastolic (DAP) and mean (MAP) arterial pressure, stroke volume of the heart (SV), cardiac output (CO), cardiac index (CI), total peripheral vascular resistance (TPR).Results. Maximum increase of SAP, DAP, MAP, CI, CO in GA groups was found at the prenatal stage. Decrease of SAP, DAP, MAP in SA groups was indicated. Hypotension in IIa subgroup required correction with Mesatone in 23 women, while only five patients from IIb subgroup had a correction of hypotension with Mesatone.Conclusion. In subgroups Ia and Ib, major changes were noted at the prenatal stage, which is manifested in energetically less favorable functioning of the cardiovascular system. CS with SA using Ondansetron was accompanied by favorable shifts at all the stages (especially at the prenatal stage), what is indicating hemodynamic safety of that method of anesthesia

The oxidative stress index in human population with arterial hypertension and diabetes mellitus

Context: A clinical study was conducted in a cohort of human subjects from 60 to 75 years of age in order to assess the correlation between disease diagnosis and oxidative stress (OS) damage in diabetes mellitus (DM) and arterial hypertension (AHT). Aims: To provide a sound basis to design a clinical protocol for antioxidant adjuvant therapy for DM and AHT. Methods: The values of the OS index were determined from the experimental values of biomarkers in erythrocyte lysates obtained from human blood samples including total antioxidant levels, specific biomarkers of oxidative damage, and antioxidant enzyme activities. Three study groups were formed: Group I: DM patients (110 subjects), group II: AHT patients (112 subjects); and Control group: Healthy volunteers (123 subjects). The data of all groups were analyzed using SPSS 9.0 software. A nonparametric Friedman test was used to compare several related subgroups, and changes within the groups and subgroups were tested using the Wilcoxon paired test. A Mann-Whitney U test was used to estimate significant differences (p<0.05) between the subgroups. Results: Severe OS was observed in subgroup IIc (AHT III), moderate OS was observed in subgroups Ib (DM II) and IIb (AHT II), mild OS was observed in subgroup Ia (DM I), and no OS was observed in subgroup IIa (AHT I). Conclusions: The results support the possible design of clinical trial protocols for adjuvant antioxidant therapy in order to increase the efficacy of standard therapies for AHT II and III and for DM II. Antioxidant therapies for DM I and AHT I are not recommended due to the presence of only mild OS or no OS, respectively.

Study of the Effect of Administration of Citalopram on the Liver of the Pregnant Albino Rats and the Liver of their Offspring

AbstractBackground: Depression and anxiety are common public health problems. Citalopram is the first line of treatment for depression among SSRIs with high potency and selectivity for serotonin uptake. Pregnancy appears to increase the risk of anxiety by 10-30% of pregnant women. Women previously known with depressive disorder have an increased risk of depression in connection with pregnancy. The liver is a primary target of adverse drug reactions because it is the predominant site for the biotransformation and metabolism of the drugs. Aim of the study: The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of administration of citalopram on the liver of the pregnant albino rats and the liver of their offspring.Material and Methods: Forty pregnant albino rats were chosen for this study. They were divided into two equal groups, each group contained twenty pregnant albino rats. Each group was subdivided into two equal subgroups and each subgroup contained ten pregnant albino rats: Group I (control group): Each pregnant albino rat was already given by a gastric gavage 0.18ml distilled water daily one week before pregnancy. This group was divided equally into 2 sub-groups: Subgroup IA: Each pregnant albino rat was given by a gastric gavage 0.18ml distilled water daily during pregnancy. Subgroup IB: Each pregnant albino rat was given by a gastric gavage 0.18ml distilled water daily during pregnancy and continued daily for 2 weeks after delivery with the same dose. Group II (Citalopram treated group): Each pregnant albino rat was given by a gastric gavage 0.18ml distilled water containing 0.36mg citalopram daily one week before pregnancy. This group was divided equally into 2 sub-groups: Subgroup IIA: Each pregnant albino rat also was given by a gastric gavage 0.18ml distilled water containing 0.3 6mg citalopram daily during pregnancy. Subgroup IIB: Each pregnant albino rat also was given by a gastric gavage 0.18ml distilled water containing 0.36mg citalopram daily during pregnancy and continued 2 weeks after delivery. At the end of the experimental period, the albino rat mothers and their offspring were collected on the 1st day (subgroups IA and IIA) and fifteenth days after delivery (subgroups IB and IIB). Biochemical study was done for all albino rat mothers before liver dissection by taken blood samples to measure the levels of Aspartate Amino Transferase (AST), Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT) and Gamma Glutamyl Transpeptidase (GGT) in the serum followed by statistical analysis of the data using unpaired student’s t-test. Paraffin sections for albino rat mothers and their offspring were prepared to be stained with H & E, Masson's trichrome and Gordon and sweet's stains for light microscopic study. Specimens of the liver were also prepared for electron micro-scopic study. The semithin sections were cut and stained with toluidine blue and examined by light microscope. The ultrathin sections were cut and examined using a transmission electron microscope.Results: Administration of citalopram led to a significant elevation in the liver enzymes of the albino rat mothers. Also, citalopram caused cellular degeneration, necrosis, apoptosis, congestion of the hepatic veins and the portal veins in the hepatic tissue of the albino rat mothers and their offspring.Conclusion: Citalopram caused degenerative changes in the liver of the albino rat mothers and their offspring when it was administered before and during pregnancy and after delivery.

Effect of Adipose-derived stem cells versus clomiphen on treatment of experimental polycystic ovary in rats: Histological and Immunohistochemical study

Background: Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCO) is a syndrome of ovarian dysfunction with polycystic ovary morphology and features of hyperandrogenism.Aim of work: This work aimed to compare the histological effects of adipose-derived stem cells (ADSC) to clomiphen on the treatment of letrozole experimentally-induced polycystic ovary in rats.Materials and methods: 50 adult female albino rats were divided into: Group I (control), group ІІ (PCO group) that received Letrozole for 21 days. Then 5 rats from each group were sacrificed to prove PCO. Remaining 20 rats of PCO group were subdivided: Subgroup ІІB (Recovery group), Subgroup ІІC (clomiphene-treated group), Subgroup ІІD (ADSCs-treated group), Subgroup ІІE: (clomiphene + ADSCs treated group), while the control group was subdivided into subgroups IB, IC, ID and IE, that received the solvents for 3 more weeks as in the corresponding subgroups in G II. Ovarian specimens were processed and stained with H and E, Periodic acid Schiff (PAS) reaction, immunohistochemichal stain using Ki 6. Morphometric and statistical analyses were done.Results: PCO group showed dilated ovarian cysts, thinned granulosa layer, cell debris appeared in the follicular cavity. Clomiphen and ADSC improved the ovarian histological architecture where various stages of ovarian follicles were noticed, including corpora lutea and few cysts.Conclusion: Clomiphen effect was found to be comparable with ADSC effect , while combining ADSC + Clomiphen gave the best results.

Хронобиологические особенности различных режимов терапии тестостерон-гелем у мужчин с андрогендефицитом

Androgens play a key role in the male development. All the physiological processes in the body, including the production of testosterone, have their chronobiological features. Aging is accompanied by a disruption in the regulation of chronobiological processes. With androgen deficiency, these changes occur at any age. In recent years, transdermal forms of testosterone have become very popular in the treatment of this condition. To evaluate the effectiveness and chronobiological features of various regimens of testosterone gel therapy for external use in men with androgen deficiency. The study comprised 90 men aged 45 to 60 years with testosterone deficiency. Patients were randomized into three groups of 30 people each. In group I (control) patients received basic therapy, including exercise, diet, and multivitamins. In group II, patients received basic therapy concurrently with testosterone gel for external use (Androgel) at a daily dose of 5 g (1 sachet). Patients in group III were administered basic therapy in combination with 10 g testosterone (2 sachets). The effectiveness of treatment was assessed at 3 (visit 2) and 6 (visit 3) months. Depending on the results of visit 2, a correction of therapy was carried out, if necessary. During each visit, the patients underwent evaluation, including hematocrit, levels of FSH, LH, prolactin, total testosterone, blood SHBG, waist circumference, and body weight. Patients completed the ICEF-5 questionnaire, the Hamilton scale (HDRS, HARS), and the SF-36 questionnaire. We also tested the patients for the chronobiological status and desynchronosis. During the visit I, the homogeneity of the study population was confirmed. At three months, the patients of groups II and III showed a more pronounced increase in testosterone, a decrease in body weight and waist circumference, as well as an improvement in the psycho-emotional status and quality of life according to the questionnaires. Desynchronosis persisted in 25 (83.3%), 9 (30%), and 4 (13.3%) patients in groups I, II, and III, respectively. Given the findings, the treatment was adjusted. The patients in the groups were divided into subgroups A and B. In subgroups A, patients continued to receive initial therapy, and in subgroups B, the treatment was adjusted. At six months, the level of GT increased to normal values in all subgroups except subgroup IA. The most marked reduction in body weight and waist circumference was noted in subgroups IA, IIA, and IIIB. A significant decrease in the average scores on the HDRS and HARS scales and an improvement in the SF-36 scale were observed in the subgroups IA, IIA, IIIB. Desynchronosis persisted in 3, 2, and one patient in subgroups IB, IIB, and IIIA. The testosterone gel therapy in patients with androgen deficiency can effectively reverse the manifestations of the disease and normalize the chronorhythm. Transdermal testosterone gel at a daily dose of 5 g in the morning can be recommended to alleviate clinical manifestations of the disease and eliminate desynchronosis in this category of patients. In patients with low baseline testosterone levels, it is advisable to administer the drug at a daily dose of 10 g.

EFFECT OF THERMOCYCLING ON REPAIRED ZIRCONIA CERAMIC RESTORATIONS USING DIFFERENT BONDING AGENTS

Statement of the Problem: The clinical success of zirconia intra-oral repair depends on the strength of the bond between the zirconia core and veneering composite. Purpose: In the present study, the effect of aging on the shear bond strength of zirconia ceramic and nanohybrid composite resin as a repair material was evaluated using different bonding agents. Materials and Method: Fifty six plates of zirconia ceramic (10mm×2mm) were prepared by CAD/CAM. All discs were air-abraded using 50μm Al2O3 particles at 2 bar pressure for 10 s, then divided into two equal groups A and B (n= 28) according to exposure to thermocycling. Each group was subdivided into four equal subgroups (n=7) according to the used bonding agent, as follows: control subgroup I, treated with Z-prime plus; subgroup II, All- Bond Universal; subgroup III, optibond; and subgroup IV, Voco-Futura bond. Surface roughness of all specimens (n=56) were evaluated immediately after bonding application using contact surf-test (Mitutoyo SJ 201, Japan). The composite resin (Ceram X nanohybrid) were then bonded and cured to each zirconia plate. The shear bond strength test was performed to group A with a universal testing machine at a crosshead speed of 1mm/ min before thermocycling. Specimens of group B were thermocycled 1000 times in water between 5˚C and 55˚C, then the shear bond strength test was performed. Bond strength values (MPa) were calculated and analyzed with a two-way ANOVA. The failure mode of each specimen was evaluated under a stereomicroscope. Results: The mean shear bond strengths before thermocycling were 13.22, 13.03, 7.02, and 6.69 (MPa) in subgroups IA, IIA, IIIA and IVA, respectively. After exposure to thermocycling the mean shear bond strengths were 13.47, 11.48, 0.00 and 0.00 (MPa) in subgroups IB, IIB, IIIB and IVB, respectively. The results showed that the shear bond strength were significantly higher in subgroups I and II than subgroups III and IV (p< 0.05). Chemical pre-treatment of zirconia with Z- Prime Plus revealed significant higher bond strength than the Optibond (subgroup III) and Voco bond (subgroup IV) before and after aging conditions. Conclusion: Treatment with both Z-prime and All- Bond Universal resulted in higher bond strength values compared to the Optibond and Voco Futurabond. The use of Z-Prime Plus treatment in combination with air-abrasion procedure resulted in the highest bond strength value that is stable on aging

The Influence of Sire Presence on Survival and the Growth Rate of Juvenile Common Voles Microtus arvalis

Pup survival and growth rates were monitored to determine whether paternal care potentially contributes to reproductive success of male common voles Microtus arvalis Pallas, 1779. The subjects were 258 pups from 47 litters obtained from adult voles trapped in the wild. Reproducing pairs were formed and divided onto two groups in accordance with the age and parental experience of the reproducing individuals: group I included pairs with subadult males and nulliparous females; group II included pairs with adult males and multiparous females. Each of the groups was divided into two subgroups: in subgroups Iа (n = 13) and IIа (n= 11), litters were raised by females without sires; in subgroups Ib (n = 12) and IIb (n = 11), litters were raised by both parents. The litter size was recorded at parturition and again when the young were 12, 21, and 30 days old. Pups in each litter were weighed at parturition and also again when the young were 12, 21, and 30 days old. This study has shown that the presence of the sire may negatively affect both survival and growth rates of the pups, but this effect is dependent on the age of the reproducing individuals.

Metabolic profile and functional state of vascular endothelium in women with various forms of premature ovarian insufficiency

Objective. Compare levels of biochemical and functional markers of cardiovascular risk in the molecular-genetic and autoimmune forms of premature ovarian insufficiency (POI). Materials and methods. The study included 68 women with POI, 49 of them - with molecular-genetic form (a subgroup IA), 16 women with autoimmune form (a subgroup IB), 3 women - idiopathic form (a subgroup IC), and 85 women with regular periods (group II - control). Hormonal profile, levels of biochemical and functional markers of endothelial dysfunction [total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides, low density lipoproteins (LDL), high density lipoproteins, atherogenic index, apolipoproteins A1 and B, uric acid, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP), glucose, insulin, insulin resistance index HOMA, right and left carotid intima-media thickness (cIMT), brachial artery flow-mediated dilatation (FMD)] were assessed in all the participants. Results. The levels of cholesterol, LDL, cIMT were statistically significantly increased in subgroups IA and IB compared to group II. The patients with autoimmune form of POI (subgroup IB) had statistically increased levels of cholesterol and LDL compared to group with molecular-genetic form (subgroup IA). The women in subgroup IA also had significantly increased levels of uric acid, a highly sensitive CRP, endothelin-1 and decreased brachial artery FMD in comparison with the control group. Conclusion. Molecular-genetic POI is associated with more pronounced adverse changes in the profile of cardiovascular disease risk markers.

Emotional disorders in patients with Parkinson's disease on the background of the comorbid pathology of autoimmune genesis

Parkinson's disease is one of the most common neurodegenerative diseases, which affects more than 1% of the world's population, is over 65 years old, and the incidence rate can double by 2030. This pathology is accompanied by both motor and non-motor manifestations (NMM). One of the frequent types of affective disorders in patients with PD is depression. Depression can worsen both the motor and social activity of patients with PD. Understanding the factors associated with depressive symptoms contributes to early detection and timely treatment. In a number of studies, depression and anxiety are recognized as a major factor in the poor quality of life of patients with PD. Aim of the research. To study the features of emotional disorders in patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) and autoimmune thyroiditis (AIT). Materials and methods . 109 patients with PD at the age from 47 to 75 years were examined. The main group of patients consisted of ІА and ІB subgroups, control group - ІІА and subgroups IIB. Conducted general clinical and neurological examination, assessment of motor functions using the unified PD scores (UPDRS), neuropsychological testing (Becky Depression Rating Scale (BDI), Hamilton Alarm Scale (HARS), PDQ-39 quality of life assessment, statistical analysis with program Statistica 6.0. Results. The study showed the presence of depression in 84 patients with PD, which is 77.1%, and anxiety disorders in 73 patients, respectively 67.0%. The analysis of the depression and anxiety index in the dynamics showed a statistically significant difference in the subgroups ІА and ІB. There was a strong statistically significant direct correlation between the scores for the detection of affective disorders and the patient's quality of life indicator (PDQ-39) during the initial examination and a year later in subgroups IA and IB. Conclusions. There was a statistically significant difference in affective disorders in dynamics in patients with PD and AIT. The influence of the level of anxiety and depression on the quality of life of patients with PD and AIT was revealed, which indicates a high medico-social significance of these disorders

Effect of vitamin D on the variability of blood pressure in premenopausal and menopausal hypertensive women in the area of Blida (Algeria)

ObjectiveTo evaluate the effect of 25 (OH) vitamin D supplementation on blood pressure (BP) variability in hypertensive women in the pre-menopausal and post-menopausal periods. Materials and methods881 hypertensive women prospectively followed for an interventional study between January 2016 and September 2017, in specialized consultation at the department of internal medicine at the Blida University Hospital (Algeria). Four hundred and thiry nine premenopausal women (group I) and 442 menopausal women (group II). The initial serum 25 (OH) D level for each group was determined by the enzyme immunoassay. In groups I and II, we identified 2 subgroups, A: insufficiency (vit D between 29 and 20ng/ml) and B: deficiency (vit D less than 20ng/L). Antihypertensive therapy was supplemented with an additional 200000IU/month cholecalciferol for the two B subgroups. The variability in BP was calculated as the ratio of mean systolic and diastolic BP during daytime and nighttime, with performing ambulatory BP measurement at baseline, 3, 6, and 12 months of follow-up. ResultsAt inclusion, the level of 25 (OH) D was lower (P<0.05) in subgroups IB (19.3±8.5ng/ml) and IIB (18.2±9, 5ng/ml) compared to subgroups IA (28.1±10.7ng/ml) and IIA (25.2±10.1ng/ml). After supplementation, the level of 25 (OH) D increased in subgroup IB (38.3±11.9ng/ml) and in subgroup IIB (37.3±10, 5ng/ml) and became higher (P<0.001) than in subgroups IA and IIA. Between subgroups IA and IB, at inclusion, there is no difference (P>0.05) in the SBP and DBP variability during the day and at night. After treatment, the variability of the SBP at night became lower (P<0.02) in group IB compared to group IA. In subgroup IIB, daytime variability indices were higher (P=0.04) at inclusion than in group IIA. After treatment, the variability of SBP during the day decreased but remained the highest (P<0.05) in subgroup IIB (14.8±10.8mmHg) compared to subgroup IB (12.0±8.1mmHg), as well as to subgroups IIA (10.9±9.8mmHg) and IA (10±8.1mmHg). We found a significant correlation of cholecalciferol with the variability of SBP during the day. ConclusionsVitamin D deficiency appears to be a factor of BP variability. Although the variability of the postmenopausal group remains higher than that of the other groups, the correction of the level of 25 (OH) D by the supply of cholecalciferol 200000 IU per month leads to a reduction in the variability of BP in the studied hypertensive women could help to prevent morbimortal complications.

OPTIMIZATION OF TACTICS OF MANAGEMENT OF MULTIPLE PREGNANCY AND LABOR

A thorough analysis of the course of labor and perinatal outcomes was conducted in pregnant twins. It is proved that multiple pregnancy is a factor of high risk of perinatal complications. The features of the process of neonatal adaptation in twins are studied depending on the tactics of delivery. Goal: to improve perinatal outcomes in women with multiple pregnancies by optimizing the management of pregnancy.Material and methods. Examined 68 pregnant women with twins after IVF, who made up the I group of subjects, 62 pregnant women with spontaneous twins - group II, and 38 women with self-singleton pregnancy who entered the control group. Pregnant Groups I and II, depending on the treatment prescribed, were divided into two subgroups: IА (36 pregnant women) and IIA (32 pregnant women) received a standard amount of treatment and prophylactic measures. Subgroups IB (32 pregnant women) and IIB (30 pregnant women) received natural micronized progesterone (200 mg 3 times a day) in addition to standard treatment and prophylactic measures. All pregnant women underwent a complete clinical and laboratory examination using ultrasound, Doppler, and cardiotocography (CTG), and a biophysical profile of the fetus. The analysis of the course of pregnancy, childbirth, the postpartum period and the state of neonatal adaptation in the surveyed groups were carried out. In the neonatal period, neurosonography was performed, a part of the newborns were followed by psychomotor development in the first six months of life. The obtained results were statistically processed using standard packages of applied statistical analysis (Statistic 6.0 for Windows, Statgraphics v. 7.0).Results. The results of pregnancy analysis in patients with IVF revealed a number of serious complications during pregnancy and childbirth: the threat of premature birth (66.2%), placental dysfunction (48.5%), iron deficiency anemia (51.5%), preeclampsia (52, 9%), premature rupture of amniotic membranes (17.6%), weakness of labor (27.9%), and a high incidence of operative delivery (30.9%). Against the backdrop of hormonal support, a decrease in the frequency of very early premature births in the first group was 1.6 times, early premature births by 1.5 times and an increase in the frequency of late premature births by 1.4 times, which is a favorable prognostic factor for reducing perinatal losses. Among the main methods of delivery, mention should be made of the high rate of cesarean section in the I A subgroup (55.6%) and the IIA subgroup (46.9%), each of which was significantly higher than the control group (10.5%) ( p &lt;0.05). Almost with the same frequency cesarean section was observed in women with independent multiplicity. Premature and deep morphofunctional immaturity were inherent in children from premature births, which significantly influenced the Apgar score, which was lower in the first group than in group II and control group (p &lt;0.05).Conclusions. A differentiated approach to the preparation and management of labor, careful observation of patients and dynamic monitoring of the fetus state allows to reduce the frequency of postnatal complications, contributing to the reduction of perinatal morbidity and mortality.

Survey of viruses infecting open‐field pepper crops in Côte d'Ivoire and diversity of Pepper veinal mottle virus and Cucumber mosaic virus

The prevalence of viruses in pepper crops grown in open fields in the different agro‐ecological zones (AEZs) of Côte d'Ivoire was surveyed. Pepper veinal mottle virus (PVMV; genus Potyvirus) and Cucumber mosaic virus (CMV; genus Cucumovirus) were the most frequent viruses among those surveyed, while tobamoviruses (genus Tobamovirus) were detected at low frequency. PVMV showed a high heterogeneity across AEZs, which may be related to climatic, ecological or agronomical conditions, whereas CMV was more homogeneously distributed. The molecular diversity of CMV and PVMV were analysed from partial genome sequences. Despite the low number of CMV isolates characterized, two molecular groups were revealed, one corresponding to subgroup IA and the other to reassortants between subgroups IA and IB. RNAs 1 and 3 of the reassortants clustered with the IB subgroup of CMV isolates, whereas their RNA 2 clustered with the IA subgroup. Importantly, RNA 1 of CMV isolates of the IB subgroup has been shown to be responsible for adaptation to pepper resistance. The diversity of PVMV in the VPg‐ and coat protein‐coding regions revealed multiple clades. The central part of the VPg showed a high level of amino acid diversity and evidence of positive selection, which may be a signature of adaptation to plant recessive resistance. As a consequence, for efficient deployment of resistant pepper cultivars, it would be desirable to examine the occurrence of virulent isolates in the CMV or PVMV populations in Côte d'Ivoire and to follow their evolution as the resistance becomes more widely deployed.

The role of modern methods for&#x0D; intravascular visualization of coronary arteries in diagnostics and treatment of coronary heart disease in the employees of the Russian&#x0D; Railways joint stock company related to train movements.

The aim of this study was to show the importance of modern non X-ray diagnostic techniques of coronary arteries for diagnosis and treatment of CHD. Material and methods. 110 patients, who took part in the study, were divided into two groups according to their coronarography: group 1 - patients with intermediate coronary stenosis (n = 80) and group 2 - patients with normal coronary arteries (n = 30). All patients of group1 underwent FFR measurement in the magistral arteries. On the base of FFR value the second group was conventionally divided into two subgroups: Ia (47.5% patients) - with a positive FFR value (≤0,8), in which the lesion was considered functionally significant and responsible for ischemia, and Ib (52.5% patients) - with a negative FFR value (&gt;0,8). In the case of positive FFR value patients underwent IVUS-guided PCI. Results. Survival index free of MACE and readmissions was not significantly different in the group II and subgroup Ib and were 100 and 95.2%, respectively (p &gt; 0.05). A comparison of this index in the subgroups Ia and Ib was no significantly different (97.3% and 95.2%, respectively, p &gt; 0.05). The rate of restenosis in the Ia subgroup, which required re-intervention, was 2.7%, which corresponds to the data in the literature. Late stent thrombosis was not revealed. Conclusions. Survival index free of MACE and readmissions is not different in the long-term period in the study groups.

Does duration of abstinence affect the live-birth rate after assisted reproductive technology? A retrospective analysis of 1,030 cycles

To study influence of abstinence period on the live-birth rate after assisted reproductive technology (ART). Retrospective cohort study. Reproductive medicine unit, university-level hospital. A total 1,030 ART cycles evaluated from 2011 to2015. Group I, abstinence period 2-7days, and group II, abstinence period >7days, were compared. Two subgroups Ia (2-4days) and Ib (5-7days) were also compared with group II. Primary outcome was live birth per ET. Secondary outcomes included implantation, clinical pregnancy, and miscarriage rates. The live-birth rate (34.1 % vs. 24.1%; odds ratio [OR], 1.6; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.1-2.4), clinical pregnancy rate (44.4 % vs. 32.7%; OR, 1.6; 95% CI, 1.1-2.3), and implantation rate (26.4% vs. 18.2%) were significantly higher in group I compared with group II. Other secondary outcomes of fertilization rate and miscarriage rate did not differ between groups I and II. The adjusted odds ratio (aOR) for live birth (aOR, 1.6; 95% CI, 1.1-2.5) and clinical pregnancy rates (aOR, 1.7; 95% CI, 1.2-2.5) were significantly higher for group I compared with group II. The live-birth rate was significantly higher in group Ia (36.1% vs. 24.1%) compared with group II. An abstinence period of more than 7days may impact ART outcomes adversely when compared with an abstinence period of 2-7days.

MRI-based determination of occlusal splint thickness for temporomandibular joint disk derangement: a randomized controlled clinical trial

This prospective study examined a method using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to assess the appropriate effective occlusal splint vertical thickness in the management of disk derangement. Patients were diagnosed as having internal disk displacement of the temporomandibular joint and were divided into 2 groups. Group I (disk displacement with reduction) was subdivided randomly into 2 subgroups: subgroup IA (control group) comprising patients treated with 3-mm-thick splints; and subgroup IB (study group) comprising patients treated with MRI-based splint thickness. Group II (disk displacement without reduction) was subdivided randomly into 2 subgroups: subgroup IIA (control group) comprising patients treated with 3-mm-thick splints; and subgroup IIB (study group) comprising patients treated with MRI-based splint thickness. The primary outcome variables were maximum voluntary mouth opening and visual analogue scale scores for pain. The secondary outcome variable was joint sound. The final sample was composed of 162 patients (Group I = 90 and Group II = 72). Statistical analysis showed significant improvement of the clinical outcomes in subgroups IB and IIB compared with that in subgroups IA and IIA. On the basis of MRI measurements and clinical outcome, the present study we recommend 4-mm and 6-mm vertical splint thickness for disk displacement with reduction and disk displacement without reduction, respectively, for 1 year.

Influence of Age on Aluminum-Induced Hepatotoxicity in the Male Albino Rat

Background: aluminum is the third most common element in the earth’s crust and is about 8% of its total mineral components. It is widely used in antacid drugs, food additives and tooth pastes. Moreover, it is added to the drinking water for purification purposes. It is also the metal of choice in making several household cookware and storage utensils despite its toxic effects. Aim of the work: this study aimedto describe the histological changes which occurred in liver of rats exposed to aluminum and also to clarify whether those changes were related to the age of the experimental animals or not. Material and methods: 32 male albino rats were used in this study, 16 adults and they were weighing 150-180 gm and 16 senile and they were weighing 400-450 gm. Group I: was consisted of 16 adult male rats. This group was categorized into two equal subgroups; subgroup IA and subgroup IB. Group II: was consisted of 16 senile male rats. This group was categorized into two equal subgroups; subgroup IIA and sub group IIB. Subgroups IA and IIA were served as control and received distilled water. Subgroups IB and IIB received aluminum chloride in a dose of 475 mg/kg body weight by gastric gavage once daily for three weeks. At the end of the experiment, liver specimens were collected, processed for paraffin blocks and semithin sections and examined by light microscope. Results: liver sections obtained from adult rats received aluminum chloride showed disrupted and discontinuous liver capsule, disorganized hepatic architecture, affection of the hepatocytes especially those under the liver capsule which had small darkly stained nuclei and dilated, distorted and slightly congested central veins. Most of the blood sinusoids appeared either narrow and obliterated or congested. The portal triads showed vascular congestion and dilatation, proliferation of the bile ducts with slight increase in the collagen deposition around the portal triads. Sporadic positive PAS reaction within the cytoplasm of the hepatocytes was also noticed in liver sections stained with PAS stain. Semithin sections stained with toluidine blue showed well circumscribed vacuoles of different sizes inside and outside the hepatocytes. On the other hand, liver sections obtained from senile rats received aluminum chloride showed the same previous changes that occurred in the adult group, but they were exaggerated and there were additional changes such as the presence of irregular homogenous materials and tiny vacuoles in the cytoplasm of most of the hepatocytes. Conclusion: oral administration of aluminum chloride in rats resulted in degenerations in the liver and that was conclusive of toxic hepatitis. These changes were exaggerated among the senile rats which proved that senile rats are more susceptible to the hepatoxicity induced by aluminum. Therefore, it is advised to create awareness among people especially the senile ones about the hazards of extensive use of aluminum.

Characterization and Functional Analysis of the Poplar Pectate Lyase-Like Gene PtPL1-18 Reveal Its Role in the Development of Vascular Tissues.

Pectin is a major component of plant cell walls, and the structure of pectin impacts on the properties of wood. Although we know that pectate lyase (PL, EC 4.2.2.2) has a major influence on the structure of pectin, our knowledge of Pectate lyase-like genes (PLL) in tree species remains limited. To better understand the characteristics of PLL genes in trees and to identify novel PLL genes that are potentially involved in the development of wood, we performed comprehensive analyses of gene structures, phylogenetic relationships, chromosomal locations, gene duplication events, conserved protein motifs, and gene expression patterns of 30 PLLs in Populus trichocarpa (PtPL1s). We performed an in silico gene expression profiling and quantitative real-time PCR analysis and found that most of the PtPL1 genes from subgroups Ia and Ib were highly expressed in xylem. PtPL1-18 from subgroup Ia was preferentially expressed in developing primary xylem and in xylem cells that were developing secondary walls. Overexpression of PtPL1-18 in poplar reduced plant growth and xylem development. Reduced secondary cell wall thickening and irregular xylem cells were observed in the transgenic trees, probably due to their lower pectin content. Although pectin is not a major component of plant secondary cell walls, our results are consistent with the PtPL1 genes performing important functions during wood formation.