Successful Rehabilitation Research Articles

Exploring barriers to rehabilitation for individuals with spinal cord injury: a qualitative study in Iran

ObjectivesRehabilitation services are crucial for improving the quality of life and overall health of individuals with spinal cord injuries (SCIs). However, access to adequate rehabilitation remains limited in many regions, including Iran. This study aims to explore the barriers faced by individuals with SCIs in accessing appropriate rehabilitation services within Golestan province, northern of Iran.MethodsThis study employed a qualitative approach to explore the barriers experienced by individuals with SCIs in accessing rehabilitation services. Fourteen participants were purposefully selected from the Golestan province (north of Iran) until data saturation was reached. Semi-structured interviews were conducted during the summer and fall of 2023, recorded, transcribed, and subjected to rigorous thematic analysis.ResultsThe study identified three primary categories of barriers: 1) Personal limiting factors, such as insufficient health literacy and inadequate home adaptations; 2) provider-related, including insufficient expertise, non-professional service delivery, inappropriate facility adaptations, limited service accessibility, and inadequate service provision; and 3) socio-supportive, encompassing companionship needs, financial constraints, insurance limitations, and bureaucratic hurdles.ConclusionThe findings of this study highlight a complex interplay of patient, provider, and societal factors that impede access to rehabilitation services for individuals with spinal cord injuries in Golestan province. While provider-related challenges are prevalent, the significance of individual and socio-supportive factors cannot be overstated. To optimize rehabilitation outcomes, a holistic approach is essential, addressing not only physical impairments but also psychosocial and environmental barriers.The findings of this study underscore the complex interplay of patient, provider, and societal factors that influence access to rehabilitation services for individuals with spinal cord injuries. While provider-related challenges, such as insufficient expertise and limited service accessibility, are significant, the study emphasizes the crucial role of individual and socio-supportive factors in facilitating successful rehabilitation. Addressing these multifaceted barriers requires a holistic approach that considers not only physical impairments but also psychosocial and environmental needs.

Rehabilitation success and related costs following stroke in a regional hospital: a retrospective analysis based on the Australian National Subacute and Non-Acute Patient (AN-SNAP) classification

BackgroundEvidence is limited on the factors influencing successful stroke rehabilitation in regional contexts. Additionally, the relationship between rehabilitation costs following acute stroke, based on Australian National Subacute and Non-Acute Patient (AN-SNAP) casemix classification, and rehabilitation success remains unclear.ObjectiveThis retrospective cohort study investigated the factors contributing to improved functional outcomes following stroke rehabilitation in an Australian regional hospital, also evaluating the respective average daily and total payments.MethodsStroke patients’ admission records, during 2010–2020, were linked with rehabilitation registry data. Rehabilitation success was defined as relative functional gain (RFG) ≥ 0.5 and Functional Independence Measure (FIM) efficiency ≥ 1. Multivariate mixed effects logistical regressions modelled the sociodemographic and medical (i.e., comorbidities and stroke type) predictors of rehabilitation success, while logarithms of average daily and total rehabilitation payments were modelled using robust regressions.ResultsOf 582 included patients, 315 (54.1%) achieved RFG ≥ 0.5 and 258 (52.2%) achieved FIM efficiency ≥ 1. A longer delay in starting rehabilitation was associated with a lower likelihood of achieving RFG success [Odds Ratio (OR): 0.85, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.78–0.93, P < 0.001] and FIM efficiency success (OR: 0.89, 95% CI: 0.82–0.97, P = 0.010). A higher FIM score at admission was associated with decreased odds of FIM efficiency success (OR: 0.35, 95% CI: 0.20–0.60, P < 0.001). The average daily and total rehabilitation payments for inpatients were $AU1,255 (median) [interquartile range (IQR): 1,040, 1,771] and $AU28,363 (median) (IQR: 18,822, 41,815), respectively. FIM efficiency success was positively associated with the average daily payment (Beta: 0.25, 95% CI: 0.20–0.30, P < 0.001), but negatively correlated with the total payment (Beta: -0.18, 95% CI: -0.24–0.13, P < 0.001). No significant associations were found between RFG success and these payments.ConclusionThis study identifies key factors affecting stroke rehabilitation outcomes in a regional Australian setting. Delays in starting rehabilitation were linked to lower success rates, underscoring the importance of timely intervention. While higher average daily costs were associated with better FIM efficiency, total costs did not correlate with relative functional gains. These findings may inform rehabilitation practices and may influence future funding strategies for rehabilitation services.

Restoration of phosphate mined lands: literature review with insights from Morocco

Phosphate mining is essential for global agriculture but poses significant environmental challenges, particularly in landscape degradation. This study reviews the current state and trends of phosphate mining, highlighting economic importance, environmental impacts, and sustainability issues. It evaluates restoration techniques, focusing on the effectiveness of various plant species in restoring mined areas. Key factors influencing successful rehabilitation include topsoil management, physico-chemical site characteristics, nutrient bioavailability, topography, and water availability. The study advocates for integrated land management strategies that combine tailored nutrient management plans, erosion control, and water conservation, particularly in arid climates. Strengthening and enforcing regulatory frameworks is crucial to ensure accountability in land rehabilitation, with a focus on sustainability. Recent legal advancements in Morocco aim to modernize mining operations and enhance environmental accountability. The findings recommend increased investment in research to develop innovative rehabilitation techniques and long-term monitoring programs to ensure adaptive management and continuous improvement of restoration outcomes.

Аутентичность личности спортсмена как ресурс психологического благополучия в кризисе совладания с травмой

&lt;p style="text-align: justify;"&gt;The article presents an overview of modern foreign studies on the well-being of professional athletes during the period of coping with the crisis associated with sport injury. It is indicated that sports injury has not only signs of damage to the body, but also triggers specific deep processes, including combined distress, violation of psychological well-being, inability to plan and implement professional goals. To cope with them, an injured athlete needs a wide range of internal mental resources, and in their context, personal authenticity is of particular importance. The approaches to understanding this phenomenon are analyzed, and studies on related topics are presented that reveal the psychological potential of authenticity in preserving and strengthening psychological well-being. On the model of sports injury, the prospect of a special successful rehabilitation through the implementation of internal growth associated with injury (SIRG) is considered. The problems and prospects of further research are outlined, and a vision is given of the wide application of the described mechanisms in the work related to the recovery of patients and their psychological well-being.&lt;/p&gt;

Complexiteit in behandeling van rectus femoris letsels

Complexity of rectus femories injuries This article addresses the complexity of rectus femoris tendon injuries in sports, presenting a case study of a professional football player. Although common, such injuries exhibit variations in presentation and treatment. In this case, a conservative approach was chosen due to the partial rupture of the direct tendon and absence of muscle belly retraction. External factors, such as the timing of the injury during a transfer window and the player's role in club and national teams, influenced decision-making regarding return to play. The importance of precise communication among medical staff, the player, and management was emphasized to ensure successful rehabilitation and minimize the risk of recurrence. Feathery oedema on MRI served as an indicator for adjusting the rehabilitation protocol. The article underscores the necessity of a multidisciplinary approach, tailored treatments, and well-coordinated rehabilitation processes for complex rectus femoris muscle injuries in sports. This case illustrates the diversity of presentations within this type of injury and underscores the need for individual evaluation and treatment adjustments.

Rehabilitation success in ACL reconstruction and medial meniscus repair: A case of delayed recovery and optimized outcomes

This case report highlights the rehabilitation process of a 23-year-old male who underwent anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction with medial meniscus repair. Early rehabilitation is critical to prevent complications, but this patient experienced a significant delay, resulting in functional deficits such as a 10-degree fixed flexion deformity (FFD) and quadriceps lag at post-operative day 14. A structured rehabilitation protocol was initiated at day 14 post-operation. Progress was tracked using the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) and Single Leg Balance Scale (SLBS). The rehabilitation focused on improving knee extension, muscle strength, balance, and proprioception. Significant improvements were observed by week 12. The patient’s KOOS scores improved across all domains, with pain improving from 45 to 80 and sports function from 10 to 60. The SLBS showed increased balance on the affected leg, improving from 5 to 25 seconds. The delayed rehabilitation approach still yielded positive outcomes, underscoring the importance of a structured physiotherapy program. This case demonstrates that even with delayed rehabilitation, significant functional recovery can be achieved through a structured physiotherapy protocol. The results reinforce the necessity of early rehabilitation to avoid delays in recovery and improve long-term functional outcomes.

Cytokine expression of soft tissue cells cultured with titanium discs and their respective supernatants in vitro

ObjectiveTitanium surface modifications improve osseointegration in dental and orthopedic implants. However, soft tissue cells can also reach the implant surface in immediate loading protocols. While previous research focused on osteogenic cells, the early response of soft tissue cells still needs to be better understood.Material and methodsWe have established a bioassay to this aim where human gingival fibroblasts, HSC2 oral squamous carcinoma cells, and murine bone marrow cells were cultured onto titanium discs or exposed to the respective supernatants for overnight. Modifications were double acid-etching (SLA), and coating with simulated body fluid (SBF) with or without odanacatib (ODN), a selective cathepsin K inhibitor reducing bone resorption.ResultsOur findings indicate that direct contact with titanium discs, with all surface modifications, slightly reduces cell viability. Growing gingival fibroblasts on discs consistently showed a trend toward increased IL8 expression. In HSC2 cells, this setting significantly increased IL1 and IL8 expression, confirmed by the immunoassay. Murine bone marrow macrophages also showed an increase in IL1 and IL6 expressions. Supernatants of the respective discs failed to cause these changes. Although ODN coating inhibited cathepsin K, osteoclastogenesis remained unchanged.ConclusionsThese findings suggest that titanium discs do not provide a favorable in vitro surface for oral soft tissue cells as they lose viability and respond with a moderately increased expression of inflammatory cytokines.Clinical relevanceThe soft tissue surrounding a dental implant can impact rehabilitation success. Understanding how soft tissue cells respond to titanium surface is potentially relevant to understand clinical outcomes.

Annotations on Lower-Limb Exoskeleton in Different Parts and Successful Commercial Rehabilitation Robots

The exoskeleton is always a famous topic for robot-human relations. In the novel and movie, exoskeleton robots function as additional bodies or arms for human users. However, because of the restrictions of materials and some detection skills, people cannot achieve such a goal. The research on exoskeletons nowadays mainly focuses on rehabilitation and military use. Because of the low cost of exoskeletons in rehabilitation and their safety, exoskeletons become a common and good choice for hospitals and nursing homes, especially lower-limb exoskeletons for paralysis or spinal cord injury patients who need to do rehabilitation for walking ability. This overview will first examine the algorithms for hip exoskeletons, followed by an analysis of using the new type of component in knee exoskeleton and then the annotation system of ankle exoskeletons, and last, talk about the algorithm for one successfully commercialized lower-limb exoskeleton. This comprehensive review aims to contribute to the field by providing valuable insights for researchers and practitioners in lower-limb exoskeleton development.

The impact of selective logging on the genetic diversity of Rubroshorea johorensis in the tropical rainforest

The tropical rainforest of Kalimantan, Indonesia, is dominated by a mixed dipterocarp forest. Rubroshorea johorensis is a commercial species of the Dipterocarpaceae family but is listed as vulnerable. So far, the management of natural forests through selective logging may have a negative impact on genetic diversity. Therefore, this study was conducted to determine the genetic diversity of R. johorensis in different forest types representing the management and silvicultural techniques in the tropical rainforest of Kalimantan, including virgin forest (V1-V4 populations), logged over area/LOA (L1-L3 populations), and stand established by enrichment planting after selective logging (E1-E3 populations). The study applied both expressed sequence tags microsatellite (EST-SSR) loci and genomic microsatellite loci. The AMOVA showed that genetic differences among forest types were minimal (2.48%), with most of the variation occurring within individuals (78.51%). All genetic diversity variables of R. johorensis were not significantly different among forest types, although with respect to all genetic variables, enrichment planting was the highest, and LOA was the lowest. The research suggested that selective logging slightly reduced the genetic diversity of R. johorensis, and the enrichment planting using intensive silvicultural technique could increase all genetic variables and the potential of residual stand. In addition, the established R. johorensis progeny trial using selected mother trees from the surrounding concession area is useful for improving the genetic quality and conserving genetic resources in the future. The success of massive rehabilitation in the LOA will promote the standing stock and maintain the forest genetic resources. Furthermore, the consistent involvement of forest concessionaires and government support is crucial for the sustainable management of R. johorensis in its natural habitat.

Resources for enhancing parental competence in the rehabilitation of a child with disabilities

Introduction. In light of the apparent contradiction between the necessity for parental involvement in the rehabilitation of children with disabilities and the limited competence of many parents, which hinders such participation, it is essential to study the nature of parental competence. This includes examining its levels, factors, and components that contribute to successful rehabilitation outcomes. Aim. The aim of this study is to analyse the resources associated with parental competence, within the context of social capital theory, that enable parents to attain successful outcomes in the rehabilitation process of a child with disabilities. Methodology and research methods. The sample population for this study comprised 500 respondents. The research was conducted between 2022 and 2024 at the Sverdlovsk Regional Disability Rehabilitation Centre in Ekaterinburg. A questionnaire survey was administered to the parents of children with disabilities. In addition to quantitative methods, qualitative techniques were employed to gather empirical data, utilising evaluative and projective approaches to assess various dimensions of family capital, including trust, support, attention, and the closeness of the parent-child relationship. The study also aimed to identify the types of parental positions adopted in relation to the child, which included partnership, mentoring, dominance, and rejection. Furthermore, the focus of parental engagement during rehabilitation activities within the specialised institution was examined, along with an evaluation of the effectiveness of the child’s rehabilitation process. Results and scientific novelty. Based on factor analysis, it has been established that the level of social capital possessed by parents, encompassing both family and non-family resources, directly influences the level of parental competence. Furthermore, the level of income is directly correlated with the type of parental role assumed in relation to the child, while the effectiveness of rehabilitation is significantly dependent on the degree of parental involvement in rehabilitation activities. A majority of parents exhibit a dominant and rejecting stance, which is associated with a low level of social capital and a corresponding low level of competence. In contrast, parents who assume a partner or, to a certain extent, a mentoring role, exhibit a high level of resources, while the resources accessible to other parents are classified as medium-level resources. Practical significance. The research findings can be utilised to formulate strategies aimed at improving the resource allocation for parents, with a particular emphasis on educational resources. This can be achieved by broadening the range of services available to them and establishing an eco-rehabilitation environment.

Assessment of critical land cover rehabilitation in South Sulawesi, Indonesia

The wide areas of critical land in Indonesia are attracting a high level of attention due to the significant influence of global warming. Addressing this issue requires several priority efforts, such as critical land rehabilitation programs. The level of critical land rehabilitation can be evaluated with remote sensing technology. Therefore, this research aimed to assess critical land in South Sulawesi rehabilitated by PT Vale Indonesia Tbk (PT VI) as compensation for mining nickel from the forest areas. The assessment was conducted in three villages across Luwu, namely Binturu, Lamasi, and Rante Alang. Successful critical land rehabilitation was determined by monitoring land cover changes (LCC) based on satellite data generated using Harmonized Sentinel-2 from 2019 to 2023. Furthermore, analysis was performed using the Google Earth Engine (GEE) platform with the Random Forest machine learning algorithm and correlation matrix. The result showed five LC classes, including high-density, low-density, shrubs, bare land, and buildings. Before rehabilitation in 2019-2020, non-forested LC in the three villages was only at a proportion of 23.41%, while forested LC reached 58.92% and increased to 80-95% in 2021-2023. Critical land rehabilitation in Luwu was considered a success due to increased LC at high- and low-density classes, along with declines in bareland and buildings. Additionally, an inverse correlation was detected between high- and low-density LC classes and buildings, barelands, and shrubs. Elevation in high- and low-density LC could significantly contribute to mitigating climate change.

Lower-Limb Orthoses in Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy

ABSTRACT Introduction Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is associated with a mutation in the DMD gene. It is a progressive disorder characterized by deficiency or absence of the production of dystrophin protein. The mechanical stress increased by muscle contractions causes damage to the muscle cell. Delayed ambulation, frequent falls, incompetence during climbing stairs, Gower’s sign, pseudohypertrophy of the calf, and proximal muscle weakness may be seen in children. Loss of ambulation, pulmonary failure, cardiomyopathy, and early mortality are expected in the natural process of the disease. The life expectancy is 30 years with the treatments and care applied nowadays. Materials and Methods Physiotherapy has a substantial place during aging. Physiotherapy approaches, orthoses, and self-help devices are utilized to prevent the development of contractures and deformities characterized by long-term fixed joint position, muscle imbalance, loss of joint range of motion, and fibrotic changes. Results It is observed that stretching exercises are noneffective in contracture and deformity management. It should be considered that the development of lower-limb contractures may occur in the early period. Orthotic approaches can be utilized to delay the loss of ambulation. Conclusions Lower-limb orthoses can be recommended for controlling contracture occurrence, providing postural control, ensuring and maintaining the correct position, continuity of function, ensuring ambulation or vertical position, and preserving surgical success. The use of personalized orthoses will enhance the success of rehabilitation. Orthoses should be used with other treatments to maintain functional mobility in accordance with the patient’s condition and should be reproduced according to the course of the disease. Clinical Relevance Ambulation level is important in choosing a lower-limb orthosis for patients with DMD. It is recommended that ankle-foot orthoses (AFOs) be preferred during the ambulatory period and knee-ankle-foot orthoses (KAFOs) or hip-knee-ankle-foot orthoses (HKAFOs) be preferred during the nonambulatory period.

IMPACT OF FRAILTY AND DEMENTIA ON REHABILITATION OUTCOMES IN OLDER ADULTS SURGICALLY TREATED FOR HIP FRACTURE

Abstract We investigated the impact of frailty and dementia on rehabilitation outcomes after hip fracture (HF) surgery in an Italian Orthogeriatric Unit (OGU). We prospectively enrolled all patients aged ≥70 years admitted to the OGU at Sondrio Hospital (Italy) in 2011-2019, with HF requiring surgery. We administered a comprehensive geriatric assessment, including factors related to fracture and surgery. A frailty index (FI) based on 16 variables expressed frailty (FI=number of deficits/16), with which we obtained three categories: fit (FI&amp;lt; 0.15; reference), mild (0.15&amp;lt; FI&amp;lt; 0.34), moderate-to-severe (FI≥0.35). Among 818 participants (mean age 85.6 years, 83.3% females), 21.6% had pre-existing dementia. The average time-to-surgery was 1.9 days (77.6% in spinal anesthesia). Rehabilitation success, i.e. Rehabilitation Efficiency Index (REI)&amp;gt;0.5, was achieved by 70.2% of subjects. From multivariable logistic regression, factors impacting rehabilitation success were frailty (both categories), dementia (OR: 0.14, 95% CI: 0.10-0.21), and age ≥90 years (OR: 0.37, 0.21-0.64). The chances of rehabilitation success were lower for patients with dementia than for those without. Although there is no clear link between age and rehabilitation success, frailty has a decreasing influence as age increases. In nonagenarians, severe frailty does not limit rehabilitation success as much as in younger patients. Previous research showed that dementia potentially acts as a surrogate for frailty in predicting post-operative 1-year mortality after HF surgery. We show that dementia and frailty significantly influence rehabilitation success, thus early mobilization and initiation of physical therapy regardless of age should target non only frail subjects, but also those with dementia, possibly with specifically dedicated interventions.

STUDI TINGKAT KEBERHASILAN DAN SOLUSI REHABILITASI MANGROVE PADA TELUK AMBON BAGIAN DALAM, PROVINSI MALUKU

This study evaluates the success and failure of mangrove rehabilitation in Inner Ambon Bay, focusing on environmental factors, planting techniques, and habitat conditions. The research was conducted over 12 months, from May 2022 to April 2023, using descriptive quantitative and qualitative methods. Primary data were collected through field observations and interviews, while secondary data from relevant institutions were analyzed using Survival Rate and Growth Rate formulas. Out of 1,260 planted mangrove seedlings, only 29 survived, yielding a success rate of 2.3%. Failure factors include inadequate substrate, narrow intertidal zones due to reclamation, and wave disturbances. Proposed solutions include substrate modification, species zoning adjustments, and mechanical protection for seedlings. These findings highlight the importance of ecologically integrated approaches in mangrove rehabilitation programs to ensure long-term success.

Application Of Client Centered Techniques To Prisoners Of Drug Abuse

This research examines the application of the client-centered approach in counseling drug abuse at the Class IIA Pekanbaru Penitentiary. This technique empowers clients to discover their own solutions through methods such as listening, active engagement, reflecting on feelings, and clarification. The study employs a qualitative descriptive approach to provide an in-depth understanding of the social dynamics surrounding drug abuse.Data was gathered through interviews with three inmates involved in narcotics cases, aged 5 to 8 years. The findings indicate that the client-centered technique is effective, offering personalized attention that meets individual needs and enhancing the likelihood of successful rehabilitation. Moreover, this approach helps inmates gain insight into the causes of their drug abuse and develop strategies to prevent future relapse.

Factors Influencing the Outcome, Mechanism, and Implementation of Motivational Interviewing After Hip Fracture: A Qualitative Analysis.

Motivational interviewing, an evidence-based person-centered counseling style, may help to facilitate increased mobility and physical activity after hip fracture. We explored contextual factors influencing the outcome, mechanism, and implementation of motivational interviewing after hip fracture. A qualitative study was completed using an interpretive description framework. Data sources included verbatim transcriptions of interviews with purposively sampled patients (n=18), clinicians (n=6 including 3 physical therapists), and relevant physical therapy stakeholders (a trial coordinator, a manager, and physical therapists involved in trial recruitment; n =4), and 128 randomly selected clinician diaries where clinicians recorded notes at the end of each motivational interviewing session. Data were independently coded by 2 researchers and mapped to the Medical Research Council process evaluation framework. Consensus discussions involving all researchers were completed to triangulate the data and develop an interpretive synthesis. We found 3 main themes and 3 subthemes in the data. The main themes were: (a) It's about life, (b) Walking is not the goal, and (c) It's complicated. The last theme was further developed into a model depicting internal, external, and social factors influencing the outcome, mechanism, and implementation of motivational interviewing after hip fracture. Internal factors related to physical and psychological functioning. External factors included elements related to the environment and health services. Social factors included having a support system, receiving positive feedback, isolation, and feeling overwhelmed. Factors interplayed to create a multitiered model, with the person's life at the center. Traditional rehabilitation was perceived as addressing the physical factors of hip fracture, while motivational interviewing intervention was considered to address the whole person. Many contextual factors interplay to influence motivational interviewing intervention after hip fracture. For successful hip fracture rehabilitation, our results suggest physical therapists and other care providers address these factors in addition to physical rehabilitation and focus on the person at the center of the process.

Management of adverse effects following additively manufactured subperiosteal jaw implantation in the maxilla.

This expert opinion presents provisional guidelines for addressing complications associated with Additively Manufactured Subperiosteal Jaw Implants (AMSJI®) in patients with severe maxillary atrophy. AMSJI®'s custom design, supported by finite element analysis (FEA), allows precise placement that avoids critical anatomical structures and minimizes complications relative to alternative solutions. Data were gathered through firsthand experiences, direct communications, and insights from international workgroup meetings. Minor complications, such as soft tissue recession with inflammation, can be managed through thorough patient selection and early intervention. Severe complications, such as ascending infections and mechanical issues (e.g., fractures of implant components), have been rare. Compared to zygomatic implants and bone grafting, AMSJI® demonstrates a favorable safety profile. Zygomatic implants may lead to severe issues like orbital cellulitis and diplopia, while bone grafting risks include graft resorption, loss, and donor site complications. To mitigate these risks, selecting patients carefully and ensuring diligent follow-up are critical, especially in those with risk factors like smoking or bruxism. Improved imaging, planning, and FEA have further contributed to minimizing complications, reinforcing AMSJI®'s role in complex maxillary reconstructions and implant-supported prosthetics. AMSJI® demonstrates high success rates but requires meticulous risk management. Key strategies involve carefully candidates by excluding those who are smokers, immunocompromised, or non-compliant, or diabetics with a history of infectious complications. Additionally, strict adherence to oral hygiene protocols is essential to optimize outcomes and minimize risks.Proactive management in these areas is crucial to optimize outcomes, ensure implant longevity, and support successful prosthetic rehabilitation.

Rehabilitation of Completely Edentulous Patient with Cleft Palate Using Neutral Zone and Palatogram Technique

Cleft lips and palates are congenital anomalies affecting the mouth and face. For fully edentulous patients with a cleft palate, crafting complete dentures is particularly challenging. These dentures, which incorporate an obturator and extend into the palate, must be meticulously designed to address issues related to appearance, speech, swallowing, and chewing. Treatment for cleft lip and palate aims to restore function, speech, and aesthetics through the use of fixed prostheses, removable prostheses, and implants. The approach should follow key principles of oral rehabilitation, including maintaining proper physiology, stability, aesthetics, hygiene, and considering patient expectations. To ensure the durability of prosthetic solutions, it is crucial to respect both the periodontal and dental tissues and the biomechanics of the prosthesis. Palatogram is an effective and straightforward technique for assessing and verifying palatal contours, which helps in addressing speech deficiencies related to affected sounds. Managing completely edentulous adults with cleft palates, particularly those who have not undergone surgical intervention, presents a significant challenge for prosthodontists. This case report explores the use of a conventional complete denture for a cleft palate patient, utilizing the palatogram technique to precisely record the palatal contours, the neutral zone technique to optimize denture stability by aligning forces in harmony with oral musculature, and monoplane teeth to reduce lateral forces and enhance denture stability. Together, these techniques aim to improve speech, mastication, and comfort, providing a functional and aesthetic prosthesis suited to the patient’s unique anatomical needs. This case demonstrates the successful rehabilitation of an edentulous cleft palate patient using a conventional complete denture with specialized techniques to address the unique anatomical and functional challenges presented. The neutral zone technique, monoplane teeth arrangement, and palatogram technique were crucial in achieving a stable, functional, and aesthetically pleasing denture. These methods helped optimize denture retention and stability, improve phonetics, and enhance masticatory efficiency, providing the patient with a significant improvement in quality of life and self-confidence. For patients unable to pursue more invasive and costly implant-supported options, such techniques offer a viable and effective solution for complete denture fabrication, allowing for functional and aesthetic rehabilitation within economical constraints.

HEMATOLOGICAL AND BIOCHEMICAL PARAMETERS AS PROGNOSTIC INDICATORS FOR SUCCESSFUL REHABILITATION IN CONFISCATED TEMMINCK'S PANGOLINS (SMUTSIA TEMMINCKII).

The establishment of prognostic indicators in wildlife patients aids clinical decision-making and resource allocation. Hematological and plasma biochemical parameters were evaluated as potential prognostic indicators in wild Temminck's pangolins (Smutsia temminckii) rescued from the illegal wildlife trade. In this prospective cohort study, EDTA and lithium heparin blood samples were collected from the ventral coccygeal vein in 41 pangolins within 48 h of confiscation and before veterinary intervention. Receiving operator characteristic curve analysis was performed to assess each parameter as a prognostic indicator for release outcome and, where known, for 28 d survival postadmission. RBC counts, hemoglobin concentration, and Hct were significantly lower in female than in male pangolins. On intake, pangolins that later failed to be released had significantly lower mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC), higher blood urea nitrogen (BUN), and higher creatinine (Crea) values than individuals that were released. Individuals with lower MCHC or higher Crea values were also less likely to achieve 28-d survival. No pangolin with MCHC < 30.2 g/dl, BUN > 84 mg/dl, or Crea > 0.8 mg/dl was successfully rehabilitated. No other hematological or biochemical parameter, including plasma cortisol, total protein, lactate, lactate dehydrogenase, and glucose, showed significant prognostic value. This study suggests that MCHC, BUN, and Crea measured on intake are useful prognostic indicators for rehabilitation success and MCHC and Crea for short-term survival in Temminck's pangolins.

Survival of White-Tailed Eagles Tracked after Rehabilitation and Release

ABSTRACT There are many raptor rehabilitation centers around the world that receive and care for wild raptors. Wildlife rehabilitation is a labor- and cost-intensive part of addressing animal welfare. Apart from the compassionate aspect of taking responsibility for an injured animal, there remains an open question as to whether doing so contributes to animal conservation. The fates of such animals after their rehabilitation and release have rarely been studied. Long-term post-release monitoring is needed to assess survival and reproduction. Here, we investigate the post-release fates of 22 White-tailed Eagles (Haliaeetus albicilla), including juveniles, immature birds, and adults in Austria, the Czech Republic, Germany, and Slovakia. Using GPS tracking, we monitored the eagles for 2–2639 d (median = 340 d) between 2005 and 2023. The longest-surviving eagle was tracked for more than 7 yr. Release was followed by a short 6-d period of high mortality, followed in turn by a long-term annual adult survival rate of 74.6%. Anthropogenic factors contributed to 70% of the long-term mortality cases. Reason for admission, length of hospital stay, and use of flight aviaries had no statistically significant effect on long-term survival. Five eagles successfully bred and produced a total of 10 fledglings. Traveling as much as 1378 km, the released eagles dispersed throughout central, northern, and eastern Europe. Thus, it can be concluded that successful rehabilitation of White-tailed Eagles resulted in high survival rates; and in five cases, successful reproduction indicated effective reintegration into the wild population.