Vital Structures Research Articles

A 56-Year-Old Man with an Unusual Projectile Trajectory of Gunshot Wound at Head and Neck Region: A Rare Case Report

Background: Gunshot injuries to the neck are linked to a substantial risk of high mortality and morbidity due to the presence of critical vascular and vital structures. However, there are rare instances where a bullet trajectory through the neck region avoids damaging these vital structures. In this context, we report a specific case involving a 56-year-old male who presented to the emergency department with a gunshot wound to the right maxilla through the left anterior neck region.
 Case presentation: During the examination, a hematoma was observed in the left neck without an apparent entrance wound. The occurrence of a bullet injury to the neck without affecting any vital structures is exceptionally uncommon. Effectively managing patients with high-velocity penetrating injuries to the head and neck entails prioritizing tasks such as securing the airway, controlling hemorrhage, and promptly addressing any residual traumatic deformities for optimal outcomes. The presented case involves a gunshot injury to the head and neck, and a comprehensive review of the literature is provided.
 Conclusion: Gunshot injuries to the head and neck are complex and serious, demanding swift and thorough medical attention. The case emphasizes the significance of post-surgery monitoring for potential complications, contributing valuable insights to the ongoing discourse on managing such injuries.

Portal Placement for Hip Arthroscopy

Hip arthroscopy is a well-established technique that has become a mainstay in the repair of bony and ligamentous injuries when conservative methods fail to return adequate joint mobility and function. The technique has both diagnostic and therapeutic utility and its use as a minimally invasive orthopedic surgery continues to advance. Several studies have suggested that arthroscopic surgical management has more favorable outcomes in certain circumstances when compared to hip-specific conservative measures. The approach to establishing adequate sites for portal placement is dependent upon recognizing the pertinent anatomy of the surgical site. At the same time, the operator must be mindful of the desired views once access to the joint space has been obtained. Proper visualization of the desired joint region is critical to reducing the conversion into inherently riskier total hip arthroplasties (THAs). Additionally, the neurovascular landscape of the groin presents technical challenges with the procedural approach that requires significant skill to avoid injuring vital structures in the area. Acetabular labral tears are frequently repaired with this type of operative management as techniques and approaches become more refined. Here, we present the case of a 24-year-old female who is undergoing an arthroscopic anterior labral repair, highlighting both the anatomical landmarks and the access points for portal placement used in the procedure.

Preserving vascular integrity during totally robotic sigmoidectomy: unleashing the power of vessel-sparing precision.

This study assesses the feasibility, safety, and clinical utility of vessel-sparing approach in totally robotic sigmoidectomy for adenocarcinoma. A comprehensive protocol for completely vessel-sparing robotic sigmoidectomy (VsRS) was established at the authors' institution from January 2019 through December 2020. Surgical and pathological outcomes were indagated and compared with results of current literature. The study population consisted of 34 patients. The median number of examined lymph nodes (ELN) was 21 (range 15-28); the median number of positive lymph nodes (PLN) was 0 (range 0-8). Mean operative time was 240 min (sd 43.56, range 180-360 min), and conversion to open rate was 0%. Anastomotic leak rate was 0%. The median follow-up period was 28 months CONCLUSION: This pilot series represents a significant step forward in the development of completely vessel-sparing sigmoidectomy for adenocarcinoma. The study demonstrates the safety and feasibility of this innovative approach, which aims to achieve oncological radicality while preserving vital vascular structures. Notably, the postoperative outcomes observed in this study were comparable to those reported in the existing literature for the current standard of care at high-volume centers. Nevertheless, further validation through prospective and controlled investigations is essential before this technique can be fully incorporated into clinical practice.

Magnetic resonance imaging-ultrasound fusion guided focal cryoablation for men with intermediate-risk prostate cancer

IntroductionFocal therapy (FT) is a form of ablative treatment offered to men with localized, organ-confined prostate cancer (CaP). Pelvic multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI) and mpMRI/transrectal ultrasound fusion (MRI-US) guidance enable the precise delivery of FT with limited ablation of adjacent benign tissue or vital genitourinary structures. This article presents our findings on using MRI-US to perform FT as a primary treatment for men with intermediate-risk CaP. MethodsThirty-six men underwent MRI-US fusion-guided FT cryoablation at a single center from 2018 to 2023 as a primary treatment for intermediate-risk CaP. Following FT, quarterly prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing and a 6 to 9 month mpMRI and combined MRI-US targeted and systematic biopsy were performed. Oncological outcomes were determined using several endpoints containing biochemical recurrence, imaging failure, and pathological failure. Functional outcomes were measured using reported erectile dysfunction/potency rates, urinary incontinence rates, and the American Urologic Association Symptom Score (AUA-SS) and Sexual Health Inventory for Men (SHIM) indices. ResultsMedian follow-up was 29.1 months, most (75%) of whom had grade group 2 CaP. Out of the 36 men, 32 (88.9%) completed the combined MRI-targeted and systematic biopsy follow-up after treatment. The study had no major complications, but 12 (33.3%) patients experienced Clavien-Dindo grade II or lower complications. For oncological outcomes, 6 (16.7%) men had biochemical recurrence, 9 (25%) showed imaging failure, and 8 (22.2%) met the criteria for positive biopsy- out-of-field vs. in-field. 88.2% of previously potent patients remained potent postoperatively at 12 months. All patients were continent at 12 months. There were no statistically significant changes in the AUA-SS and SHIM scores postoperatively. ConclusionMRI-US-guided cryoablation to target lesions in intermediate-risk CaP appears to be a safe treatment option, with functional outcomes indicating minimal short and intermediate-term morbidity and acceptable oncological outcomes. However, despite close monitoring and follow-up, there is still a limitation in accurately predicting/detecting pathological failure after FT. The long-term durability of FT for intermediate-risk, organ-confined CaP remains uncertain.

Mini-Implant Insertion Using a Guide Manufactured with Computer-Aided Design and Computer-Aided Manufacturing in an Adolescent Patient Suffering from Tooth Eruption Disturbance.

Due to dental diseases, anatomical restrictions, and mixed dentition, the reduction in the number of teeth and the displacement of tooth germs pose challenges in orthodontic treatment, limiting anchorage options. The presented case demonstrates an advanced treatment solution using digital CAD/CAM-technologies and medical imaging for the creation of a mini-implant template. A 12-year-old male patient experiencing delayed tooth eruption, multiple impacted germs, and maxillary constriction underwent intraoral scanning and CBCT. Utilizing coDiagnostiXTM Version 10.2 software, the acquired data were merged to determine the mini-implant placement and to design the template. The template was then manufactured through stereolithography using surgical-guide material. Mini-implants were inserted using the produced appliance, enabling safe insertion by avoiding vital structures. Surgically exposed displaced teeth were aligned using a Hyrax screw appliance anchored on the mini-implants for rapid palatal expansion (RPE) and subsequently used as fixed orthodontics to align impacted teeth. The screw was activated daily for 10 weeks, resulting in a 7 mm posterior and 5 mm anterior maxillary transversal increase. Skeletal anchorage facilitated simultaneous RPE and tooth alignment, ensuring accuracy, patient safety, and appliance stability. The presented case shows a scenario in which computer-aided navigation for mini-implant positioning can enhance precision and versatility in challenging anatomical cases.

Axillary Lymphadenectomy: Safe Dissection Through a Correct Technique.

The primary treatment of breast cancer in sentinel-positive ganglia includes axillary lymphatic nodal dissection. The LAD (lymphatic axillary dissection) has decreased in overall numbers but due to the increasing incidence of breast cancer, it is practised on a daily basis, even though there is a myriad of complications such as numbness of the upper limb and chest wall, movement restriction of the upper limb, and chronic painwhich appear due to trauma to the nerves which pass through the axilla. However, the utility in the overall survival or DFS (disease-free survival) of the patient is unquestionable. In our study, through the dissection of cadavers, we exposed the vital structures and theanatomical relations of this region. We aimed to offer a map or technique for the surgeon to followto decrease the overall morbidity of this procedure.

Seismic Response Analysis of Rectangular Reinforced Concrete Tank Constructed on Loess Soil

Introduction: Liquid storage tanks are an essential container structure widely used in various industries. In earthquake disasters, liquid storage tanks cause not only direct disasters but also induce secondary severe disasters, such as fires, explosions, nuclear leaks, and human and animal poisoning. The latest research on seismic analysis of structures showed that soils with different stiffness can affect the seismic response characteristics of surface structures, and various irregular topographies can also alter the degree of seismic-induced damage to surface structures. Studying the seismic response of liquid storage tanks can mitigate the risk of earthquake damage to these vital structures. Methods: This study used finite element simulations. Three sizes of liquid storage tanks with different aspect ratios were selected, including the squat, square, and slender tanks. Three conditions were considered for the tanks' liquid: empty, half-filled, and fully filled. Two types of topographies were considered, including flat and step-like slope topography with an inclination angle of 116.6°. Nine natural earthquake records were used for seismic analysis and divided into three categories: high-frequency, medium-frequency, and low-frequency. Established finite element models were validated through comparison with the results of other studies. The dynamic time history analysis was carried out for each finite element model. The tank's base shear forces, the normal stress in the tank wall, the shear stress in the tank bottom, and the maximum displacement of the tank wall were measured and compared. Results: The step-like slope topography and loess soil significantly amplified the seismic response of the liquid storage tank. Moreover, as the liquid height and the tanks’ aspect ratio increased, the seismic damage intensity also increased. The seismic response of the liquid storage tank was generally more sensitive to low-frequency and medium-frequency seismic records. The Eurocode 8’s equation underestimated tanks’ base shear when located on a step-like slope topography. Conclusion: The obtained results demonstrated the significant effect of irregular topography and loess soil on the seismic response of liquid storage tanks. Therefore, it was concluded that they should be considered when liquid storage tanks are designed for seismic actions.

Identifying the Risk Factors for Orbital Complications in Isolated Sphenoid Rhinosinusitis.

Background and Objectives: Isolated sphenoid rhinosinusitis may have devastating consequences such as orbital complications due to its anatomical contiguity with vital structures. This study aimed to identify patients with isolated sphenoid inflammatory diseases at high risk for developing orbital complications and requiring aggressive management through investigation of the clinical and computed tomography (CT) characteristics of patients with isolated sphenoid rhinosinusitis. Materials and Methods: The medical records of patients who underwent endoscopic sinus surgery between 2005 and 2022 were retrospectively reviewed. Patients with isolated sphenoid rhinosinusitis were identified based on a manual review of the clinical and histopathological findings. Participants' clinical and CT features were reviewed. Results: Among the 118 patients with isolated sphenoid rhinosinusitis, 15 (12.7%) developed orbital complications, including diplopia, extraocular motility limitation, ptosis, and visual impairment. Headaches and facial pain occurred significantly more frequently in patients with orbital complications than in those without orbital complications (p < 0.001). Patients with diabetes mellitus or malignant neoplasms were more likely to develop orbital complications than those without these comorbidities (p < 0.05). Bony dehiscence on CT images was significantly more common in patients with orbital complications than in those without. In the regression analysis, diabetes mellitus (OR, 4.62), malignant neoplasm (OR, 4.32), and bony dehiscence (OR, 4.87) were significant predictors of orbital complications (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Headaches and facial pain are the most common symptoms of isolated sphenoid rhinosinusitis. Orbital complications of isolated sphenoid rhinosinusitis are more common in patients with comorbidities such as diabetes mellitus or malignancy or in those with bony dehiscence on CT images.

Current Treatment Concepts for Extra-Abdominal Desmoid-Type Fibromatosis: A Narrative Review.

Extra-abdominal desmoid-type fibromatosis (EADTF) is a rare neoplastic condition of monoclonal fibroblastic proliferation characterized by local aggressiveness with a distinct tendency to recur. Although EADTF is a benign disease entity, these tumors have a tendency to infiltrate surrounding normal tissues, making it difficult to completely eliminate them without adjacent healthy tissue injury. Surgical excision of these locally aggressive tumors without clear resection margins often leads to local recurrence. The aim of this thorough review was to assess the current treatment concepts for these rare tumors. A comprehensive search of articles published in the Cochrane Library, MEDLINE (PubMed), and EMBASE databases between January 2008 and February 2023 was conducted. Surgical intervention is no longer the first-line approach for most cases; instead, strategies like active surveillance or systemic therapies are used as initial treatment options. With the exception of EADTFs situated near vital structures, a minimum of 6-12 months of active surveillance is currently advocated for, during which some disease progression may be considered acceptable. Non-surgical interventions such as radiation or cryoablation may be employed in certain patients to achieve local control. The currently preferred systemic treatment options include tyrosine kinase inhibitors, low-dose chemotherapy, and gamma-secretase inhibitors, while hormone therapy is not advised. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are utilized primarily for pain management.

Pneumatization of the sphenoid sinus is the major factor determining the variations of adjacent vital structures

BackgroundSphenoid sinus (SS) is an important landmark for endoscopic sinus surgery (ESC) and endoscopic skull base surgery. This study examines the relation of the extent of pneumatization of the sphenoid sinus with adjacent vital structures such as the internal carotid artery, optic canal, and Vidian nerve by using paranasal sinus computed tomography (PNSCT).MethodsThe study was designed retrospectively. PNSCT images in axial, coronal, and sagittal planes on both sides (right, R; left, L) were examined for sphenoid sinus, Vidian canal (VC), optic canal (OC), and carotid canal (CC) bilaterally.ResultsThe carotid canal did not show identification on the SS wall in females compared to males bilaterally (right, p= 0.002 and left, p= 0.002). The mean age was significantly higher in patients with a presellar type of sphenoid sinus (p=0.003). The mean age was significantly lower on the right side with a VC completely within the sphenoid sinus (p=0.005). The mean age of patients with an optic canal protrudation to the SS wall was significantly higher than patients with an optic canal indentation to the SS wall (p= 0.007). On the left side, cases with an optic canal protruding to the SS wall were older than cases with an optic canal indentation to the SS wall (p= 0.008). SS variations on the sagittal plane were significantly correlated with RVC, RCC, LVC, and LCC variations. Also, SS variations on the coronal plane were significantly related to types of LVC and RVC.ConclusionsPneumatization of SS significantly affects the development of surrounding vital structures, especially with increasing age.

Penetrating Mid-facial Injury from a Wooden Branch

This case report discusses the management of a patient with severe penetrating wooden branch wounds to the left mid-face following a fall in the garden. Penetrating trauma is classified as an injury that is caused by a foreign object piercing the skin, causing damage to the underlying tissues resulting in an open wound. Penetrating injuries to the head and neck often require attendance to an emergency care unit and subsequent treatment. There are numerous vital structures that can be affected and an understanding of the complex anatomy is vital to the safe management of these patients. CPD/Clinical Relevance: Treatment of facial trauma demands comprehensive understanding of the vital structures of the head/neck along with efficacious treatment delivery.

Penetrating Injury Neck Sparing Major Vital Structures: A Case Report

Introduction: Penetrating neck injury accounts for only a small incidence of all trauma case. The neck is a compact structure with vascular, neural and aerodigestive tract compacted closely.Trauma to the aerodigestive tract, neural structures, vascular structures can present with increased mortality and morbidity Case Presentation: The authors here report a peculiar case of 24 years old male presenting with Penetrating neck injury by a wooden foreign body. The patient was managed surgically without any related complications. The Foreign Body was found to be missing all the vital structures in the neck after thorough confirmation by imaging modalities and later intra-operative findings. Discussion: Due to the close vicinity of these structures, injury to vital structures is a very real and potentially life threatening complication. Associated vascular, Aerodigestive and neural injuries results in an increase in fatality rate up to 50% in some cases and may be associated with an increased risk of medianitis. Furthermore, wooden foreign body carries an increased risk of infectious, difficulty of detection in different imaging modalities. Foreign body neck is known for secondary displacement during neck movements, hence confirming that an early treatment is strongly recommended. Conclusion: Due to high risk of injury to vital structures and mortality prompt detection and management of penetrating injury neck should a high priority

Comprehensive analysis of the state of habitats of Cotoneaster lucidus Schlecht. in the Malo-Istoksky forest park in Yekaterinburg

The article is devoted to a comprehensive analysis of Cotoneaster lucidus Schlecht. in the forest park area of the city of Yekaterinburg (Russia) based on population (age and vitality structure) and organismal parameters (morphometric indicators). The purpose of the study is to analyze the features of the ontogenetic and vitality structure of seven habitats of the brilliant cotoneaster Cotoneaster lucidus Schlecht in the Malo-Istoksky forest park of the city of Yekaterinburg. Plants in the habitat are presented in the form of geoxyl bush. In the Age structure, two periods have been identified - pregenerative and generative, and three ontogenetic states. All habitats are young and are in the stage of settlement, exclusively in forb pine forests with a canopy density of 0.3-0.6. The main route of penetration of the brilliant cotoneaster into the Malo-Istoksky Forest Park is artificial plantings along the paths, near equipped recreation areas. Its spread was facilitated by the presence of edible, long-lasting fruits on the shoots, which provided food for many species of birds. The established features indicate the high potential of the species and successful naturalization.

Distribution of Acer negundo L. in the Karasye-Ozersky forest park of Yekaterinburg

The article is devoted to invasions of Acer negundo L. 1753 in the forest park area of Yekaterinburg (Russia) based on population (age and vitality structure) and organismal parameters (morphometric indicators). The purpose of the work was to study the invasion of ashleaved maple in the forest park area of Yekaterinburg; the objectives of the study included the following tasks: establishing the ecological-cenotic location of the maple and studying the biological characteristics of the species during its distribution. The objects of the study were eight maple habitats in the Karasye-Ozersky forest park. In ontogenetic development, one life form is identified - a single-stem tree, two periods are defined - pregenerative and generative, and five ontogenetic states. All habitats are young, i.e. are at the initial stage of introduction, however, there are common features of invasion. Distribution begins from open edges, gradually penetrating under the forest canopy, while having high shade tolerance, seed productivity and growth rate, Acernegundo forms multitiered thickets, displacing and complicating the self-restoration of native flora in the Karasye-Ozersky Forest Park. Despite the wide range of distribution of maple in natural and anthropogenic ecosystems, there is an ecological and phytocenotic confinement to it in the forest park, and it is manifested in its distribution mainly in pine forests of mixed herbs with a tree canopy density of 0.5. The established patterns indicate a pronounced expansion of the species and its significant invasive potential.

Analysis of the invasive activity of Cotoneaster lucidus Schlecht. in the Kalinovsky forest park in Yekaterinburg

The article is devoted to a comprehensive analysis of Cotoneaster lucidus Schlecht. in the forest park area of Yekaterinburg (Russia) based on population (age and vitality structure) and organismal parameters (morphometric indicators). The purpose of the study is to analyze the invasive activity of Cotoneaster lucidus Schlecht. in the Kalinovsky Forest Park in Yekaterinburg. Plants in the habitat are presented in the form of geoxyl bush. In the Age structure, two periods have been identified - pregenerative and generative, and six ontogenetic states. All habitats are at the stage of colonization, exclusively in forb pine forests with a canopy density of 0.6-0.7. The main route of penetration of the brilliant cotoneaster into the Kalinovsky Forest Park is artificial plantings along the paths, near equipped recreation areas. Its spread was facilitated by the presence of edible, long-lasting fruits on the shoots, which provided food for many species of birds. The established features indicate the high potential of the species and successful naturalization.

Atlas Morphometry: A Radiologic- Anatomical Study

Abstract Introduction: Atlas is an atypical cervical vertebra with unique anatomy and related to many vital structures. Any surgical intervention at this level, especially transpedicular and transarticular screw placement, requires in detail assessment of the structure of the atlas. Certain measurements considered surgically important were measured on computerized tomography (CT) scans and compared with corresponding measurements on dry bones. Methodology: The study was carried out in KVG Medical College and Hospital, Sullia, including 100 CT scans of 43 females and 57 males with a mean age of 31.4 years and 40 dried atlas vertebrae available in the Department of Anatomy. Lengths and widths of superior and inferior articular facets were measured on both CT scans and dry bones and compared. Length, width, and heights of lateral masses, along with height below the posterior arch (HBPA), maximum medialization and cranialization angles were assessed on CT scans. The mean, standard deviation, and significance of differences were calculated using an independent t-test. Results: Mean value and standard deviation were calculated for the measured parameters. Superior and inferior facet measurements were compared between CT scan images and dry bones and no significant difference was found. Conclusion: Morphometric measurements of atlas on CT images are useful for planning of screw fixation surgeries, particularly to avoid injury to vital structures. Values of measurements, especially maximum medialization angle, maximum cranialization angle, and HBPA, are in agreement with other studies and are proposed to be included as part of preoperative workup.

CT-navigated C2 Pedicle Screw insertion using dynamic reference array on C2 spinous process: A Novel Technique

ntroduction: Spine surgeons have endeavoured to improve the accuracy of pedicle screw insertion. Computed tomography (CT) guided navigation has been helpful in precisely passing pedicle screws even further accurately but, there were shortcomings noted with the technique due to movement between reference frame and anatomical landmarks, especially in the cervical spine which led to injury of vital neurovascular structures. Thus, there was a need for developing a technique which would eliminate the inherent error due to movement in the vertebral body while passing screws. Research Question: Can using C2 spinous process as an attachment for the reference array improve accuracy of C2 pedicle screws. Material and Methods: We prospectively studied data of 10 patients (20 screws) in whom Computed tomography navigated C2 pedicle screws insertion was carried out using the reference array on C2 spinous process. Accuracy of pedicle screws were confirmed by post instrumentation Computed tomography scan immediately intra operatively. Results: With the presented technique overall breach rate was 5% with one screw having a medial breach of grade 1 with no incidence of neurovascular injury or need for further revision. Discussion and Conclusion: Results from this study shows better accuracy than other techniques described to pass C2 pedicle screws eliminating the error in movement from the cervical vertebrae and the reference frame being nearest to the C2 pedicle. Although there is a learning curve with the adoption of the navigation system, with experience, the challenges associated with Cervical pedicle screws (CPS) insertion can be overcome.

A non-equilibrium dissipation system with tunable molecular fuel flux.

Cells convert macromolecule fuel into small molecule fuel through energy pathways, including glycolysis, the citric acid cycle, and oxidative phosphorylation. These processes drive vital dissipative networks or structures. Distinct from direct fuel (DF) utilization (directly acquire and utilize small molecule fuel), this macromolecule fuel mechanism is referred to as indirect fuel (IF) utilization, wherein the generation rate of small molecule fuel (fuel flux) can be effectively regulated. Here, we reported a bionic dissipation system with tunable fuel flux based on dynamic DNA nanotechnology. By regulating the rates of strand displacement and enzymatic reactions, we controlled the fuel flux and further tuned the strength of non-equilibrium transient states. Interestingly, we found that within a certain range, the fuel flux was positively correlated with the strength of the transient state. Once saturation was reached, it became negatively correlated. An appropriate fuel flux supports the maintenance of high-intensity non-equilibrium transients. Furthermore, we harnessed the dissipation system with tunable molecular fuel flux to regulate the dynamic assembly and disassembly of AuNPs. Different fuel fluxes resulted in varying assembly and disassembly rates and strengths for AuNPs, accomplishing a biomimetic process of regulating microtubule assembly through the control of fuel flux within living organisms. This work demonstrated a dissipation system with tunable molecular fuel flux, and we envision that this system holds significant potential for development in various fields such as biomimetics, synthetic biology, smart materials, biosensing, and artificial cells.

Toxicity evaluation of Dolichandrone serrulata flower extract on vital and reproductive organs in adult male rats.

Although Dolichandrone serrulata flower (DSF) aqueous extract has been shown to possess pharmacological properties, its systemic toxicity has still to be evaluated. The present study aimed to investigate the sub-chronic toxicity effect of DSF extract on biochemical parameters and histological structures of liver, kidney, testis, and epididymis plus vas deferens. Adult male rats were administered DSF at 100, 300, and 600 mg/kgBW via oral gavage for 48 consecutive days while control rats received distilled water. At the end of the experiment, blood, liver, kidney, testis, and epididymis plus vas deferens samples were collected to determine any changes to serum biochemical components including ALT, ALP, and creatinine levels and histological structures. The results revealed no significant difference in body weight and food or water consumption between control and the DSF-treated groups. It was found that DSF significantly increases the weight of epididymis plus vas deferens, while the kidney and liver showed a decrease in the high dose group (P value < 0.05). Histological changes in these vital and reproductive tissues including fibrosis were not observed after administration but ALT, ALP, and creatinine levels were significantly altered in the treated groups (P value < 0.05). These altered levels, however, were still within normal ranges. In conclusion, these findings demonstrated that D. serrulata flower extract had no sub-chronic toxicity on vital and reproductive structures but slightly altered some liver and kidney functions.

The vitality of individuals and the vital structure of coenopopulations of Tulipa biebersteiniana Schult. et Schult. fil. (Liliaceae) on the Ergeni Upland

Vital spectra are one of the most biologically important population characteristics. Currently, the study of the vital signs of rare species, which include the object of study Tulipa biebersteiniana Schult. et Schult. fil. (Liliaceae), is becoming increasingly actual. This work is devoted to the study of the vitality of specimens and the vital structure of coenopopulations of T. biebersteiniana in different parts of the Ergeni Upland. The study was carried out during two growing seasons (2022‒2023) in five coenopopulations from different plant communities confined to light chestnut soils of varying degrees of salinity. The vitality of specimens in the studied coenopopulations of T. biebersteiniana, estimated by the IVI index, varied widely – from 0.448 to 1.686. At the same time, the difference between the maximum values of individual vitality of specimens in most coenopopulations was greater in the second year of the study. The vitality values of the studied T. biebersteiniana cenopopulations, expressed by the IVC index, ranged from 0.800 to 1.270, which is consistent with the data provided in the literature. The dynamics of the values of the vitality index of T. biebersteiniana coenopopulations revealed a clinal character, increasing from the northern to the southern part of the Ergeni Upland. The highest values of the vitality index in the coenopopulations of T. biebersteiniana in the southern part of the Ergeni indicate the most favorable conditions for realizing the potential of the species in this part of the upland. The conditions of the second year of research, which were wetter and with a higher temperature during the period of plant growth and development, contributed to an increase in the vitality of both specimens and coenopopulations of T. biebersteiniana. The studied coenopopulations of T. biebersteiniana belonged to the vital type “prosperous”.