Evidence of SARS-CoV-2 infection in postmortem lung, kidney, and liver samples, revealing cellular targets involved in COVID-19 pathogenesis.

There is an urgent need to understand severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2)-host interactions involved in virus spread and pathogenesis, which might contribute to the identification of new therapeutic targets. In this study, we investigated the presence of SARS-CoV-2 in postmortem lung, kidney, and liver samples of patients who died with coronavirus disease (COVID-19) and its relationship with host factors involved in virus spread and pathogenesis, using microscopy-based methods. The cases analyzed showed advanced stages of diffuse acute alveolar damage and fibrosis. We identified the SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid (NC) in a variety of cells, colocalizing with mitochondrial proteins, lipid droplets (LDs), and key host proteins that have been implicated in inflammation, tissue repair, and the SARS-CoV-2 life cycle (vimentin, NLRP3, fibronectin, LC3B, DDX3X, and PPARγ), pointing to vimentin and LDs as platforms involved not only in the viral life cycle but also in inflammation and pathogenesis. SARS-CoV-2 isolated from a patient´s nasal swab was grown in cell culture and used to infect hamsters. Target cells identified in human tissue samples included lung epithelial and endothelial cells; lipogenic fibroblast-like cells (FLCs) showing features of lipofibroblasts such as activated PPARγ signaling and LDs; lung FLCs expressing fibronectin and vimentin and macrophages, both with evidence of NLRP3- and IL1ß-induced responses; regulatory cells expressing immune-checkpoint proteins involved in lung repair responses and contributing to inflammatory responses in the lung; CD34+ liver endothelial cells and hepatocytes expressing vimentin; renal interstitial cells; and the juxtaglomerular apparatus. This suggests that SARS-CoV-2 may directly interfere with critical lung, renal, and liver functions involved in COVID-19-pathogenesis.

Correlation between periodontal phenotype and sinus membrane thickness: A systematic review.

AIM: To assess the correlation between the periodontal phenotype (PP) and sinus membrane thickness (SMT) in humans. METHODS: This review was conducted according to the PRISMA guidelines. Two reviewers independently carried out electronic and manual literature searches of studies published in English, German, and Spanish, from 1970 to September 2022 in four electronic databases, PubMed/Medline, Scopus, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science, in addition to gray literature. Studies that assessed the correlation between PP and SMT in adults (aged 18 years) were included. Methodological quality was evaluated using the Appraisal Tool for Cross-Sectional Studies (AXIS) for articles that met the eligibility criteria. RESULTS: Six studies, including 510 patients, were considered for qualitative analysis. All included studies were cross-sectional, and the correlation between the PP and SMT was evaluated, finding a positive and high correlation in 83.3% of them, based on a value of ≥0.7. All the included studies were assessed with a high overall risk of bias. CONCLUSIONS: Periodontal phenotype and sinus membrane thickness are likely correlated. Nevertheless, further standardized studies are required to draw definitive conclusions.

Kinetic studies of complex biomedical process by magnetic resonance: Cuban experiences.

The potentials of the magnetic resonance (MR) methods in the research of biomedical systems have been demonstrated during the 70 years of its existence. It is presented that the Cuban experience in quantitative magnetic resonance associated with molecular, preclinical and clinical studies of significant diseases and drugs development. MR "in vitro" and "in vivo" studies of sickle cell disease, the diabetic foot ulcer, the brain tumor response and the magnetic nano-particle pharmacokinetics, are presented as example. Furthermore, contributions and restrictions of magnetic resonance to diagnostic and optimization of therapeutic pathways are discussed in some concrete cases.

Effect of 2,6-Bis-(1-hydroxy-1,1-diphenyl-methyl) Pyridine as Organic Additive in Sulfide NiMoP/γ-Al2O3 Catalyst for Hydrodesulfurization of Straight-Run Gas Oil.

The effect of 2,6-bis-(1-hydroxy-1,1-diphenyl-methyl) pyridine (BDPHP) in the preparation of NiMoP/γ-Al2O3 catalysts have been investigated in the hydrodesulfurization (HDS) of straight-run gas oil. The γ-Al2O3 support was modified by surface impregnation of a solution of BDPHP to afford BDPHP/Ni molar ratios (0.5 and 1.0) in the final composition. The highest activity for NiMoP materials was found when the molar ratio of BDPHP/Ni was of 0.5. X-ray diffraction (XRD) results revealed that NiMoP (0.5) showed better dispersion of MoO3 than the NiMoP (1.0). Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) results indicated that the organic additive interacts with the γ-Al2O3 surface and therefore discards the presence of Mo or Ni complexes. Raman spectroscopy suggested a high Raman ratio for the NiMoP (0.5) sample. The increment of the Mo=O species is related to a major availability of Mo species in the formation of MoS2. The temperature programmed reduction (TPR) results showed that the NiMoP (0.5) displayed moderate metal-support interaction. Likewise, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) exhibited higher sulfurization degree for NiMoP (0.5) compared with NiMoP (1.0). The increment of the MoO3 dispersion, the moderate metal-support interaction, the increase of sulfurization degree and the increment of Mo=O species provoked by the BDPHP incorporation resulted in a higher gas oil HDS activity.

Evaluation of masticatory efficiency and OHRQoL in implant-retained overdenture with different numbers of implant in the edentulous mandible: a one-year follow-up prospective study.

PURPOSE: The aim of this article is to evaluate to the masticatory function performance and Oral Health-related Quality of Life (OHRQoL) in implant-retained overdenture compared with different implant number placements in the edentulous mandible. METHODS: From 2013 to 2015, each patients received 3 implants (iSy-Implant, Camlog, Wimsheim, Germany) in intraforaminal mandible (34, 41/31, 44). After operation, inserted implants were gradually loaded and incorporated into an overdenture with a self-aligning attachment system (Locator abutments) in 3 + 3 + 3 months. Five checked points were performed chewing cycle test with multicolored chewing gum and OHIP-G14 questionnaire and a sum score questionnaire as following: pre-operation, one implant load (41/31), two implants loaded (33,43), three implants loaded and 1-year follow up. RESULT: A total of 10 patients with 30 implants were placed, the survival rate of the implants was 100% within 1-year follow-up. Regarding the masticatory function analysis, for the higher number of chewing cycles, the higher mixing rate was observed. After 1 year, the inter-mixing rate without significant changes was found compared to the time after three implants were loaded with attachment system. The mean value of OHIP-G14 was 30.4 preoperatively, 21.1 after loading the first locator, 10.7 after loading two locator abutments, and 3.2 after loading all three locator abutments. After 1 year, OHIP-G14 was 2.6 without significantly changed. The mean of the sum score was 15.5 preoperatively, 27.8 after activation of the first locator, 39.4 after activation of two locators, 46.2 after activation of all three locators, and 47.3 after 1 year. An increase of 0.7 sum score units per time point was observed. No significance was detectable, analogous to OHIP-G14, compared to the time of activation of all three locator setups (p-value = 0.22). CONCLUSIONS: A significant improvement in masticatory function performance and OHRQoL was evaluated with the increasing number of implants with locator attachment in edentulous mandible. With the investigation of the OHIP-G14 and sum score, the results of patient report outcome might be associated with the increase in the number of implants.

Does Negative Pressure Wound Therapy Impact the Outcome for Patients With Necrotizing Soft Tissue Infection Infected With Anaerobic Bacteria?

Background: A notable improvement in the treatment of necrotizing soft tissue infections (NSTIs) is the development of negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT). Clinicians are still debating whether NPWT is as successful as conventional wet-to-dry dressings at removing bacteria. Recent research has revealed potential oxygen deprivation effects of NPWT in underlying wound tissues, although clinical trials regarding the effects of reduced oxygen on anaerobic bacterial soft tissue infections remain noticeably lacking. Hypothesis: We hypothesized that NPWT-treated patients with NSTIs who were solely infected by anaerobic bacteria would have worse outcomes than those who were infected with other bacterial species. Patients and Methods: Our study included a retrospective examination of the 2008-2022 period of our Acute and Critical Care Surgery database. Patients who had been identified as having necrotizing fasciitis, Fournier gangrene, or gas gangrene and who had their conditions verified by positive wound cultures acquired during the initial debridement and subsequently received NPWT made up the study cohort. Comorbidities, surgical techniques, and clinical results were all covered by the data. Based on their wound infections, patients were divided into two groups: those with exclusively anaerobic NSTIs and those with different bacterial groups (such as polymicrobial and aerobic). Multiple regression, χ2 analysis, and analysis of variance (ANOVA) were among the analytical methods used. Results: One hundred twelve patients with NSTI who had received NPWT comprised the study cohort. Sixteen of these patients (14.3%) had NSTIs that were exclusively anaerobic, whereas the remaining 96 (85.7%) had NSTIs that were mixed aerobic, facultative, or polymicrobial. Between the two groups, there was no difference in the initial wound size. Patients with anaerobic NSTI who underwent NPWT showed a statistically significant increase in the number of debridements (3 [interquartile range {IQR},1-9] vs. 2 [IQR, 1-4]; p = 0.012) and an increased 100-day re-admission rate (37.5% vs. 12.5%; p = 0.012) when compared with patients with non-anaerobic NSTI. The 100-day re-admission rate increased three-fold in NPWT-treated anaerobic NSTIs, according to a logistic regression analysis (odds ratio [OR], 3.63; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.06-12.44; p = 0.04). Conclusions: In contrast to patients with other bacterial strains, our data show that patients with NSTI treated with NPWT who only have anaerobic bacterial infections have a larger number of debridements and are much more likely to require re-admission within 100 days. We call for additional prospective studies to be conducted to identify additional risk factors and consider alternate treatment options for individuals with exclusively anaerobic NSTIs in light of these findings.

Negative Pressure Wound Therapy With and Without Instillation in Necrotizing Soft Tissue Infections.

Background: Necrotizing soft tissue infections (NSTIs) are rare but deadly infections that require early and often extensive surgical debridement. After debridement, patients frequently have substantial morbidity because of large, open wounds. Hypothesis: Negative pressure wound therapy with instillation (NPWTi) results in higher wound closure rates compared with traditional negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) or wet to dry dressings (moist wound care dressing). Patients and Methods: A prospectively maintained Acute and Critical Care Surgery database spanning 2008-2018 was queried for patients with a diagnosis of necrotizing fasciitis, Fournier gangrene, or gas gangrene. Data were collected on patient comorbidities, operative management, and clinical outcomes. Patients were stratified by use of moist wound care dressing, traditional NPWT, or NPWTi. Data were analyzed using analysis of variance (ANOVA), χ2, and logistic regression. Results: During the 10-year study period, patients were treated for NSTI; 173 were managed with moist wound care dressing, 150 with NPWT, and 48 with NPWTi. Patients were similar in terms of demographics, body mass index (BMI), diabetes mellitus, and smoking rates. Overall, complication rates were not substantially different, but mortality was higher in the moist wound care dressing group (16.2% vs. 10.7% NPWT vs. 2.1% NPWTi; p = 0.02). In the moist wound care dressing group, 81.5% of patients had an open wound at discharge compared with 52.7% of the NPWT group and only 14.6% of the NPWTi group (p < 0.001). On multivariable regression, NPWTi was associated with closure rates five times higher than the NPWT group (odds ratio [OR], 5.28; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.40-11.61; p < 0.001) after controlling for smoking status, intravenous drug use, number of operations, and involvement of the most common region of the body. Conclusions: Negative pressure wound therapy with instillation is associated with higher rates of wound closure without increasing complication rates in patients with NSTI compared with traditional NPWT or moist wound care dressing. Although prospective studies are needed, this indicates the potential to improve patient quality of life through reduced pain and outpatient home health needs.

Prolonged hourly neurological examinations are associated with increased delirium and no discernible benefit in mild/moderate geriatric traumatic brain injury.

BACKGROUND: Serial neurological examinations (NEs) are routinely recommended in the intensive care unit (ICU) within the first 24 hours following a traumatic brain injury (TBI). There are currently no widely accepted guidelines for the frequency of NEs. Disruptions to the sleep-wake cycles increase the delirium rate. We aimed to evaluate whether there is a correlation between prolonged hourly (Q1)-NE and development of delirium and to determine if this practice reduces the likelihood of missing the detection of a process requiring emergent intervention. METHODS: A retrospective analysis of patients with mild/moderate TBI, admitted to the ICU with serial NEs, was performed. Cohorts were stratified by the duration of exposure to Q1-NE, into prolonged (≥24 hours) and nonprolonged (<24 hours). Our primary outcomes of interest were delirium, evaluated using the Confusion Assessment Method; radiological progression from baseline images; neurological deterioration (focal neurological deficit, abnormal pupillary examination, or Glasgow Coma Scale score decrease >2); and neurosurgical procedures. RESULTS: A total of 522 patients were included. No significant differences were found in demographics. Patients in the prolonged Q1-NE group (26.1%) had higher Injury Severity Score with similar head Abbreviated Injury Score, significantly higher delirium rate (59% vs. 35%, p < 0.001), and a longer hospital/ICU length of stay when compared with the nonprolonged Q1-NE group. No neurosurgical interventions were found to be performed emergently as a result of findings on NEs. Multivariate analysis demonstrated that prolonged Q1-NE was the only independent risk factor associated with a 2.5-fold increase in delirium rate. The number needed to harm for prolonged Q1-NE was 4. CONCLUSION: Geriatric patients with mild/moderate TBI exposed to Q1-NE for periods longer than 24 hours had nearly a threefold increase in ICU delirium rate. One of five patients exposed to prolonged Q1-NE is harmed by the development of delirium. No patients were found to directly benefit as a result of more frequent NEs. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Prognostic and Epidemiological; Level IV.

The feasibility of ultrasonography for the measurement of periodontal and peri-implant phenotype: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Screening ultrasonography was proposed for monitoring periodontal soft tissues in the early 1960s, owing to its nonionizing, real-time, and cost-effective properties. Studies have provided convincing preliminary evidence for the use of ultrasound (US) in implant dentistry. PURPOSE: To assess the feasibility of ultrasonography (US) for measuring the buccal thickness of periodontal and peri-implant tissues. The secondary objective was to evaluate the reliability of US measurements compared to classic techniques, such as CBCT and directly measurements. MATERIALS AND METHODS: An electronic literature search was conducted by three independent reviewers through February 2023. The inclusion criteria were articles investigating at least five patients/cadavers with US measurements in periodontal or peri-implant buccal tissues. Compliance with methodological reporting standards and risk of bias was assessed using EULAR and QUADAS-C tools, respectively. Random-effects meta-analysis was conducted, using Bland-Altman analysis. Certainty of the evidence was assessed using GRADE. RESULTS: The final selection included 12 studies examining 458 patients and 13 cadavers, with a total of 226 implants, 1958 teeth and 60 edentulous sites. The body of evidence was assessed as partially compliant with methodological reporting standards for US studies and had an unclear to high risk of bias. Meta-analysis of five comparative studies showed no evidence of clinically significant bias between US and direct measurements (very low certainty), and between US and CBCT (very low certainty) for soft-tissue thickness. Likewise, for bone thickness, there is no evidence of clinically significant bias between US and CBCT (low certainty). CONCLUSIONS: Compared to the CBCT and direct measurements, ultrasonography might be a reliable approach for monitoring on periodontal and peri-implant phenotype. However, there is uncertainty about estimates of the actual effect, so further standardized and larger sample size of clinical research is needed.

Short implants compared to regular dental implants after bone augmentation in the atrophic posterior mandible: umbrella review and meta-analysis of success outcomes.

PURPOSE: To assess the body of evidence of short versus regular implants after bone augmentation (BA) in the atrophic posterior mandible in the context of implant treatment success outcomes. METHODS: Seven databases, two registries, and reference lists were searched for systematic reviews and meta-analysis (SR/MA), randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and longitudinal studies published in English, Spanish or German since 2012. Confidence in the SR/MA methodology was evaluated using AMSTAR-2 and the risk of bias of primary studies using Cochrane's RoB 2.0 and ROBINS-I. A random-effects meta-analysis and a meta-regression were performed for continuous and dichotomous outcomes. GRADE approach was used to assess the certainty of the evidence. RESULTS: Eighteen SRs/MAs, most of them "critically low" and "low" confidence with substantial overlap, included 14 relevant RCTs with a high risk of bias. A cohort study with moderate risk of bias was added. Quantitative synthesis of 595 implants and 281 hemiarches/patients indicates that the use of short implants (< 10 mm) compared to regular implants and BA may reduce implant failure at 1-year follow-up, and marginal bone loss (MBL) at 3-, 5-, and 8-year follow-up; is likely to reduce the risk of biological complications at 1-, 3-, 5-, and 8-year follow-up; and may be the patient's preferred alternative. There is a correlation between bone height, MBL and biological complications. CONCLUSIONS: The available evidence partially suggests that the use of short implants could decrease implant failure, MBL, and biological complications, and increase patient satisfaction. However, given the need for further RCTs and real-world evidence to fully evaluate short- and long-term outcomes, it would be prudent for clinicians to carefully consider the individual needs and circumstances of the patients before deciding whether to use short implants. Trial registration PROSPERO CRD42022333526.

The Accuracy of Zygomatic Implant Placement Assisted by Dynamic Computer-Aided Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

PURPOSE: The present systematic review aimed to investigate the accuracy of zygomatic implant (ZI) placement using dynamic computer-aided surgery (d-CAIS), static computer-aided surgery (s-CAIS), and a free-hand approach in patients with severe atrophic edentulous maxilla and/or deficient maxilla. METHODS: Electronic and manual literature searches until May 2023 were performed in the PubMed/Medline, Scopus, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science databases. Clinical trials and cadaver studies were selected. The primary outcome was planned/placed deviation. Secondary outcomes were to evaluate the survival of ZI and surgical complications. Random-effects meta-analyses were conducted and meta-regression was utilized to compare fiducial registration amounts for d-CAIS and the different designs of s-CAIS. RESULTS: A total of 14 studies with 511 ZIs were included (Nobel Biocare: 274, Southern Implant: 42, SIN Implant: 16, non-mentioned: 179). The pooled mean ZI deviations from the d-CAIS group were 1.81 mm (95% CI: 1.34-2.29) at the entry point and 2.95 mm (95% CI: 1.66-4.24) at the apex point, and angular deviations were 3.49 degrees (95% CI: 2.04-4.93). The pooled mean ZI deviations from the s-CAIS group were 1.19 mm (95% CI: 0.83-1.54) at the entry point and 1.80 mm (95% CI: 1.10-2.50) at the apex point, and angular deviations were 2.15 degrees (95% CI: 1.43-2.88). The pooled mean ZI deviations from the free-hand group were 2.04 mm (95% CI: 1.69-2.39) at the entry point and 3.23 mm (95% CI: 2.34-4.12) at the apex point, and angular deviations were 4.92 degrees (95% CI: 3.86-5.98). There was strong evidence of differences in the average entry, apex, and angular deviation between the navigation, surgical guide, and free-hand groups (p < 0.01). A significant inverse correlation was observed between the number of fiducial screws and the planned/placed deviation regarding entry, apex, and angular measurements. CONCLUSION: Using d-CAIS and modified s-CAIS for ZI surgery has shown clinically acceptable outcomes regarding average entry, apex, and angular deviations. The maximal deviation values were predominantly observed in the conventional s-CAIS. Surgeons should be mindful of potential deviations and complications regardless of the decision making in different guide approaches.

Minimally Invasive Navigation-Guided Quad Zygomatic Implant Placement: A Comparative In Vitro Study.

Purpose: Zygomatic implants (ZIs) have been considered a reliable alternative treatment for patients with maxillary atrophy and/or maxillary defects. The use of a navigation system for assisting ZI placement could be a reliable approach for enhancing accuracy and safety. The purpose of this in vitro study was to evaluate the accuracy of a new dynamic surgical navigation system with its minimally invasive registration guide for quad zygomatic implant placement in comparison with a gold standard navigation approach. Materials and Methods: A total of 40 zygomatic implants were placed in 10 3D-printed models based on the CBCT scans of edentulous patients. For registration, a surgical registration guide with a quick response plate was used for the test group, and five hemispheric cavities as registered miniscrews in the intraoral area were used for the control group. In each model, a split-mouth approach was employed (two ZIs in bilateral zygomata) to test both systems. After ZI placement, a CBCT scan was performed and merged with pre-interventional planning. The deviations between planned and placed implants were calculated as offset basis, offset apical, and angular deviation and compared between the systems. Results: The offset basis, offset apical, and angular deviation were 1.43 ± 0.55 mm, 1.81 ± 0.68 mm, and 2.32 ± 1.59 degrees in the test group, respectively. For the control group, values of 1.48 ± 0.57 mm, 1.76 ± 0.62 mm, and 2.57 ± 1.51 degrees were measured without significant differences between groups (all P < .05). The accuracy of ZI positions (anterior and posterior) were measured without significant differences between groups. Conclusion: Two navigation systems with different registration techniques seem to achieve comparable acceptable accuracy for dynamic navigation of zygomatic implant placement. With the test group system, additional pre-interventional radiologic imaging and invasive fiducial marker insertion could be avoided.

Ludwig's Angina: Higher Incidence and Worse Outcomes Associated With the Onset of the Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic.

Background: Ludwig's angina (LA) is a diffuse cellulitis of the submandibular space and adjacent tissues. During the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, odontogenic treatments were often delayed because of the implementation of safety measures to avoid the spread of the virus. We hypothesized that delayed odontogenic treatments associated with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic would be associated with an increase in the incidence of LA and worse outcomes related to these infections. Patients and Methods: Patients from June 2018 to June 2022 with computed tomography images suggestive of LA and confirmed by ear, nose, throat (ENT) consult were included. We abstracted demographics, outcomes, clinical management, and microbiology. Patients were stratified into pre-COVID and COVID-onset. Our primary outcome, incidence of LA, was defined as: (new LA cases) ÷ (ED evaluations of oral or dental infections × 1.5 years). Results: In the pre-COVID group, we identified 32 of 1,301 patients with LA for an incidence of 0.02 per year. The COVID-onset group consisted of 41 of 641 patients, with an incidence of 0.04 per year. In the COVID-onset group, progression to necrotizing fasciitis was more likely (0% vs. 15%; p < 0.024), and they returned to the operating room for repeated debridement (3% vs. 22%; p < 0.020). Likewise, hospital length of stay, intensive care unit (ICU) length of stay, and ventilator days were higher (4.3 ± 3.5 vs. 9.5 ± 11.3; 1.1 ± 1.2 vs. 9.5 ± 7.1; 0.3 ± 1 vs. 3.6 ± 7.1; p < 0.001). Conclusions: Although the prognosis for dental infections diagnosed early is generally favorable, we observed a notable increase in the incidence of LA after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Moreover, complications stemming from these infections became more severe in the COVID-onset era. Specifically, the likelihood of necrotizing fasciitis showed a substantial increase, accompanied by an increased risk of respiratory failure and mediastinitis.

Open Mandible and Maxillary Fractures Associated with Higher Risk of Infection in Victims of Assault.

Background: Victims of assault (VOA) often present with fractures of the mandible and maxilla. They represent a complex challenge because of possible compromise of the airway, and infection-related complications because of potential involvement of the oral cavity. We hypothesized that open mandible and maxillary fractures in VOA are associated with a higher rate of infection compared with non-VOA patients with open facial fractures. Patients and Methods: Patients admitted to our level 1 trauma center from 2005 to 2020 with a diagnosis of open mandible and maxillary fractures were included. Demographics, mechanisms of injury, fracture location, cultures, infectious complications, antibiotic treatments, and clinical outcomes were abstracted. Patients were stratified by their mechanism of injury into VOA or non-VOA and were compared using χ2 and Student t-test using SPSS (IBM Corp, Armonk, NY). Results: We identified 316 patients with open mandible and maxillary fractures. There were 198 patients categorized as being VOA, and 118 as non-VOA. Nineteen of 316 patients were diagnosed with infection related to the fracture (3.8% abscesses, 1.9% cellulitis, and 1.9% osteomyelitis). Although the Injury Severity Score (ISS) was higher in non-VOA patients (5.8 ± 2.6 vs. 4.9 ± 1.8; p < 0.013), most of the infections were in the VOA cohort (17/19; 89.5%; p < 0.013). Conclusions: Open fractures of the mandible and maxilla in VOA are associated with a greater risk of infection compared with non-victims of assault. The relation between VOA and poor SDH has been studied recently; clinicians should be aware of this association and implement special considerations and appropriate follow-up visits to decrease the rate of infection in this currently expanding population.

Acute Sheehan's Syndrome Presenting with Hyponatremia Followed by a Spontaneous Pregnancy.

Background: Acute Sheehan's syndrome is rare, as well as hyponatremia as its initial manifestation. In addition, spontaneous pregnancy in patients after Sheehan's syndrome is unusual. To our knowledge, no cases of spontaneous pregnancy after acute Sheehan's syndrome have been reported. We describe a case of Sheehan's syndrome that presented with acute hyponatremia and a spontaneous pregnancy. Case: A 34-year-old female developed blood loss during delivery, which required a blood transfusion. On day seven postpartum, she presented with headaches, lethargy, and difficulty in breastfeeding. The workup showed hyponatremia (118 mEq/l), secondary hypothyroidism, and low prolactin levels. Magnetic resonance imaging showed pituitary necrosis. She was treated with NaCl, hydrocortisone (cortisol results were not available), and levothyroxine. Laboratory tests six weeks after discharge showed low IGF-1 and 8 AM cortisol and normal FT4, LH, FSH, and PRL levels. She was able to partially breastfeed until 4 months postpartum. Regular menstrual cycles started three months later. She became spontaneously pregnant one year later. Conclusion: Acute Sheehan's syndrome should be considered in the evaluation of postpartum patients with suggestive symptoms. Physicians should be aware that hyponatremia could be an initial manifestation of Sheehan's syndrome, which requires a high index of suspicion for diagnosis. Spontaneous pregnancy can occur after acute Sheehan's syndrome.

Does vitamin D have an effect on osseointegration of dental implants? A systematic review.

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to systematically review the available evidence to evaluate the efficacy of vitamin D supplementation or vitamin D depletion on the osseointegration of implants in animals and humans. METHODS: The focus questions addressed were "Do vitamin D deficient subjects treated with (dental) implants have an inferior osseointegration than subjects with adequate serum vitamin D level?" and "Do vitamin D supplemented subjects treated with (dental) implants have a superior osseointegration than subjects with adequate serum vitamin D level?" Humans and animals were considered as subjects in this study. Databases were searched from 1969 up to and including March 2021 using different combination of the following terms: "implant", "bone to implant contact", "vitamin D" and "osseointegration". Letters to the editor, historic reviews, commentaries and articles published in languages other than English and German were excluded. The pattern of the present systematic review was customize to primarily summarize the pertinent data. RESULTS: Thirteen experimental studies with animals as subject, two clinical studies and three case reports, with humans as subjects, were included. The amount of inserted titanium implants ranged between 24 and 1740. Results from three animal studies showed that vitamin D deficiency has a negative effect on new bone formation and/or bone to implant contact (BIC). Eight animal studies showed that vitamin D supplementation has a enhancing effect on BIC and/or new bone formation around implants. Furthermore, enhancing the impact of vitamin D supplementation on the osseointegration of implants in subjects with diabetes mellitus, osteoporosis and chronic kidney disease (CKD) were assessed. Studies and case reports involving human subjects showed that patients with a low serum vitamin D level have a higher tendency to exhibit an early dental implant failure. When supplemented with vitamin D the osseointegration was successful in the case reports and a beneficial impact on the changes in the bone level during the osseointegration were determined. CONCLUSIONS: Vitamin D deficiency seems to have a negative effect on the osseointegration of implants in animals. The supplementation of vitamin D appears to improve the osseointegration in animals with systemic diseases, such as vitamin D deficiency, diabetes mellitus, osteoporosis, and CKD. Slight evidence supports the hypothesis that humans similarly benefit from vitamin D supplementation in terms of osseointegration. Further investigation is required to maintain these assumptions.

The microglial NLRP3 inflammasome is involved in human SARS-CoV-2 cerebral pathogenicity: A report of three post-mortem cases.

We herein report, by using confocal immunofluorescence, the colocalization of the SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid within neurons, astrocytes, oligodendrocytes and microglia in three deceased COVID-19 cases, of between 78 and 85 years of age at death. The viral nucleocapsid was detected together with its ACE2 cell entry receptor, as well as the NLRP3 inflammasome in cerebral cortical tissues. It is noteworthy that NLRP3 was colocalized with CD68 + macrophages in the brain and lung of the deceased, suggesting the critical role of this type of inflammasome in SARS-CoV-2 lesions of the nervous system/lungs and supporting its potential role as a therapeutic target.

Rendimiento y fuerza masticatoria máxima funcional en pacientes con prótesis parcial removible dentomucosoportadas y dentoimplantosoportadas

Introducción: Debido al desdentamiento, el rendimiento y la fuerza masticatoria disminuyen, lo que implica una desorganización y descompensación del sistema estomatognático con fuerzas provocadas por la masticación, que se distribuyen en el hueso a través de dientes y mucosas y provocan la reabsorción ósea en zonas edéntulas. Objetivo: Comparar el rendimiento masticatorio y la fuerza masticatoria máxima funcional en pacientes desdentados parciales portadores de prótesis parcial removible dentomucosoportadas, antes y después de la instalación quirúrgica de implantes oseointegrados como pilares protésicos auxiliares. Métodos: Se seleccionaron 10 pacientes rehabilitados mediante prótesis parcial removibles. Se les realizaron el test biomecánico de medición de fuerza masticatoria y test de Manly para la evaluación del rendimiento masticatorio antes de la instalación del implante y a los tres y seis meses poscirugía. Resultados: Se obtuvo un valor promedio de rendimiento masticatorio de 24,2 ( 9,73 % antes de la cirugía de implantes, de 44,1 ( 13,28 % a los tres meses y de 45,6 ( 14,33 % a los seis meses posterior a esta (p = 0,001). Antes de la cirugía implantaria se obtuvo como promedio una fuerza masticatoria de 10,6 ( 4,34 kg, de 12,5 ( 4,28 kg a los tres meses y de 15,1 ( 5,12 kg a los seis meses posterior a esta (p = 0,008). Conclusiones: La utilización de implantes oseointegrados como pilares auxiliares en prótesis removibles dentomucosoportadas se asocian a un mayor rendimiento masticatorio y a un aumento de la fuerza masticatoria máxima funcional, asociado al alivio de la carga directa sobre los rebordes maxilares edéntulos.

Introduction: Due to edentulousness, masticatory performance and masticatory force decrease, which implies a disorganization and decompensation of the stomatognathic system with forces provoked by mastication, which are distributed in the bone through teeth and mucous membranes and cause bone resorption in edentulous areas. Objective: To compare masticatory performance and maximum functional masticatory force in partially edentulous patients with dentomucosally supported removable partial dentures before and after surgical installation of osseointegrated implants as auxiliary prosthetic abutments. Methods: Ten patients rehabilitated with removable partial dentures were selected. The biomechanical test of masticatory force measurement and the Manly test were performed to evaluate masticatory performance before implant installation and at three- and six-months post-surgery. Results: An average masticatory performance value of 24.2 ( 9.73 % was obtained before implant surgery, 44.1 ( 13.28 % at three months and 45.6 ( 14.33 % at six months after implant surgery (p = 0.001). Before implant surgery, an average masticatory force of 10.6 ( 4.34 kg, 12.5  4.28 kg at three months and 15.1 ( 5.12 kg at six months after implant surgery was obtained (p = 0.008). Conclusions: The use of osseointegrated implants as auxiliary abutments in dentomucosally supported removable prostheses are associated with increased masticatory performance and increased maximum functional masticatory force, associated with relief of direct load on edentulous maxillary ridges.

Quantitative Studies of Diabetic Foot Ulcer Evolution Under Treatment by Digital Stereotactic Photography.

BACKGROUND: Imaging the lower extremity reproducibly and accurately remains an elusive goal. This is particularly true in the high risk diabetic foot, where tissue loss, edema, and color changes are often concomitant. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the reproducibility of a novel and inexpensive stereotaxic frame in assessment of wound healing. METHODS: The main idea is to keep constant and reproducible the relative position of extremities related to the sensor used for the examination during a serial studies by stereotaxic digital photographic sequence. Ten healthy volunteers were evaluated at 10 different time moments to estimate the foot position variations in the stereotaxic frame. The evolution of 40 of DFU patients under treatment was evaluated before and during the epidemical grow factor intralesional treatment. RESULTS: The wound closing and granulation speeds, the relative contribution of the contraction and tissue restauration mechanism were evaluated by stereotaxic digital photography. CONCLUSIONS: The results of this study suggest that the stereotaxic frame is a robust platform for serial study of the evolution of wound healing which allow to obtain consistent information from a variety of visible and hyperspectral measurement technologies. New stereotaxic digital photography evidences related to the diabetic foot ulcer healing process under treatment has been presented.

Teledentistry protocol for the elderly in the context of the covid-19 pandemic through a web platform/mobile app: approach from the general dentist / Protocolo de teleodontología para adultos mayores en el contexto de la pandemia de covid-19 a través de una plataforma web/aplicación móvil: abordaje desde el odontólogo general

Objective: To generate teledentistry protocols for urgent and priority dental care for the elderly population through a technological web platform and mobile application in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. Material and Methods: Teledentistry protocols were developed in five sequential steps: Staff training, Patient recruitment, Patient admission, Patient reception and Patient care. Reasons for admission were categorized in urgencies and priority dental treatment. Results: The most prevalent reasons for consultation were prosthesis mismatch (18.37%), dental pain (16.33%) and fractured teeth (14.29%). In urgencies by need for treatment: due to infection or pain (24.44%) or to avoid pulp involvement (26.67%). The rest of the care did not require immediate attention. Regarding the OHIP-14Sp survey prior to care, in which patients were consulted for problems with their teeth, mouth or prosthesis, two questions were answered per dimension, for each dimension the following values were obtained: functional limitation (71.30% and 50.44%), physical pain (68.97% and 70.18%), psychological discomfort (75.00% and 74.14%), physical disability (57.39% and 46.09%), psychological disability (37.72% and 53.91%), social disability (33.91% and 30.97%) and handicap (27.83% and 25.86%). Conclusion: A teledentistry protocol for urgent and priority dental care of the elderly in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic with a focus on a general dentist remotely supported specialists was a useful tool to effectively systematize the care of elderly patients, reducing risk of exposure to COVID-19 and solving dental urgencies in this population

Objetivo: Generar protocolos de teleodontología para la atención odontológica urgente y prioritaria de la población adulta mayor a través de una plataforma web tecnológica y aplicación móvil en el contexto de la pandemia del COVID-19. Material y Métodos: Los protocolos de teleodontología se desarrollaron en cinco pasos secuenciales: capacitación del personal, reclutamiento de pacientes, admisión de pacientes, recepción de pacientes y atención al paciente. Los motivos de ingreso se categorizaron en urgencias y tratamiento odontológico prioritario. Resultados: Los motivos de consulta más prevalentes fueron desajuste de prótesis (18,37%), dolor dental (16,33%) y dientes fracturados (14,29%). En urgencias por necesidad de tratamiento por infección o dolor (24,44%) o para evitar afectación pulpar (26,67%). El resto de los cuidados no requirieron atención inmediata. En cuanto a la encuesta OHIP-14Sp previa a la atención, en la que se consultaba a los pacientes por problemas en sus dientes, boca o prótesis, se respondieron dos preguntas por dimensión, para cada dimensión se obtuvieron los siguientes valores: limitación funcional (71,30% y 50,44%), dolor físico (68,97% y 70,18%), malestar psicológico (75,00% y 74,14%), discapacidad física (57,39% y 46,09%), discapacidad psicológica (37,72% y 53,91%), discapacidad social (33,91% y 30,97%) y handicap (27,83% y 25,86%). Conclusión: Un protocolo de teleodontología para la atención odontológica urgente y prioritaria del adulto mayor, en el contexto de la pandemia de COVID-19 con un enfoque en un odontólogo general con especialistas apoyados de forma remota, fue una herramienta útil para sistematizar de manera efectiva la atención de los pacientes adultos mayores, reduciendo el riesgo de exposición al COVID-19 y resolviendo las urgencias odontológicas en esta población.