Medicina
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Intracranial calcifications, particularly within the falx cerebri, serve as crucial diagnostic markers ranging from benign accumulations to signs of severe pathologies. The falx cerebri, a dural fold that separates the cerebral hemispheres, presents challenges in visualization due to its low contrast in standard imaging techniques. Recent advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), particularly in machine learning and deep learning, have significantly transformed radiological diagnostics. ⋯ The review detailed various AI models and their accuracy across different imaging modalities in identifying and segmenting falx cerebri calcifications, also highlighting the gap in publications in this area. In conclusion, further research is needed to improve AI-driven methods for accurately identifying and measuring intracranial calcifications. Advancing AI applications in radiology, particularly for detecting falx cerebri calcifications, could significantly enhance diagnostic precision, support disease monitoring, and inform treatment planning.
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Background and objectives: Slit1 is a secreted protein that is closely related to cell movement and adhesion. Few studies related to fibrosis exist, and the preponderance of current research is confined to the proliferation and differentiation of neural systems. Hypertrophic scars (HTSs) are delineated by an overproduction of the extracellular matrix (ECM) by activated fibroblasts, leading to anomalous fibrosis, which is a severe sequela of burns. ⋯ The treatment of rSlit1 in HNFs facilitated cell migration, concurrent with enhanced levels of N-cadherin and vimentin, and a diminished expression of E-cadherin. Treatment with rSlit1 resulted in the phosphorylation of SMAD pathway proteins, including SMAD2, SMAD3, and SMAD1/5/8, and non-SMAD pathway proteins, including TAK1, JNK1, ERK1/2, and p38, in HNFs. Conclusions: Exogenous Slit1 potentiates the epithelial-mesenchymal transition and upregulates SMAD and non-SMAD signaling pathways in HNFs, leading to the development of HTS, suggesting that Slit1 is a promising new target for the treatment of post-burn HTS.
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Background and Objectives: Most orthodontic forces are absorbed-dissipated before reaching the dental pulp and its neuro-vascular bundle (NVB); however, no data are available about their amounts. The objective of this study was to assess the amount of orthodontic force that reaches the dental pulp and its NVB during orthodontic movements in a healthy periodontium. Materials and Methods: This study involved the second lower premolars of nine patients and 180 numerical simulations. ⋯ Only about 2.85% of the initial orthodontic load of 40 KPa/4 N applied at the bracket level induced stresses in the NVB, while the dental pulp was reached by 0.5% of the applied force. A similar distribution was seen at 5 KPa/0.5 N. Conclusions: The absorption-dissipation ability of the dental tissue varies between 97.15 and 99.98%.
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Review Meta Analysis
Prevalence of Vitamin D Deficiency Among Adults in Kazakhstan: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.
Background and Objectives: Despite frequent references to the high prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in Kazakhstan, a comprehensive synthesis of existing research on this issue among adults is lacking. This systematic review and meta-analysis aim to address this gap by determining the mean prevalence of vitamin D deficiency among adults in Kazakhstan. A secondary objective is to evaluate whether the prevalence differs between healthy adults and those with chronic conditions. ⋯ Overall, the pooled mean prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in the adult population was 57% (95% CI, 45-69%). Conclusions: This analysis indicates a high prevalence of vitamin D deficiency among adults in Kazakhstan, with 57% of the population affected. Addressing this issue requires a multifaceted approach, including policy reforms that consider the impact of time zone changes on sunlight exposure and the active involvement of nurse practitioners in preventive strategies.
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Review
Therapeutic Impact of Ascorbic Acid on Oral and Periodontal Tissues: A Systematic Literature Review.
Background and Objectives: Ascorbic acid (AA), a non-metabolized substance in the human body, is acquired from plant-based foods or supplements and is renowned for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, widely utilized in medicine, particularly in aesthetic practices. In dentistry, exploring adjunctive therapies like AA has gained traction to complement conventional treatments. This systematic literature review aims to assess the effects of ascorbic acid on oral and periodontal health. ⋯ Three studies noted reduced VAS scores posttreatment with AA (p < 0.05), while two demonstrated accelerated alveolar healing after tooth extraction. Four publications highlighted ascorbic acid's efficacy in addressing aesthetic concerns. Conclusions: Ascorbic acid emerges as a potentially effective adjunctive therapy for managing oral and periodontal diseases and improving gum aesthetics.