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Backgrounds/Objectives: The finite element method (FEM) is an advanced numerical technique that can be applied in orthodontics to study tooth movements, stresses, and deformations that occur during orthodontic treatment. It is also useful for simulating and visualizing the biomechanical behavior of teeth, tissues, and orthodontic appliances in various clinical scenarios. The objective of this research was to analyze the mechanical behavior of teeth, tissues, and orthodontic appliances in various clinical scenarios. Materials and Methods: For this study, we utilized a model derived from a set of CBCT scans of a 26-year-old female patient who underwent fixed orthodontic treatment using the lingual technique. Through a series of programs based on reverse engineering, we constructed a three-dimensional reconstruction of the teeth and their internal structures. Using the finite element method (FEM), we obtained six simulations of an orthodontic system utilizing the fixed lingual technique, in which we employed brackets made of chrome–nickel or gold, and archwires made of nitinol, gold, or stainless steel. Results: The study reveals that although the deformation of the archwires during orthodontic treatment is the same, the forces generated by the three types of archwires on brackets differ. The variation in forces applied to the brackets in the fixed lingual orthodontic technique is essential for customizing orthodontic treatment, as these forces must be precisely controlled to ensure effective tooth movement and prevent overloading of the dental structures. Conclusions: The FEM analysis allows for the identification of ideal combinations between the materials used for orthodontic archwires and the materials used for brackets. This ensures that the optimal intensity of forces applied during the fixed lingual orthodontic technique results in desired tooth movements without causing damage to the enamel, dentin, or pulp of the teeth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coatomer subunit α (COPA) syndrome is a mendelian autosomal dominant immune dysregulation disease characterized by early onset lung disease in the form of diffuse alveolar hemorrhaging or interstitial lung disease, frequently associated with arthritis, glomerulonephritis, and high titer autoantibodies usually mimicking other autoimmune diseases. While immunosuppressive medication has been effective in controlling arthritis, data on long-term lung disease control remains scarce, which poses a real challenge as the progression of lung disease is the main cause of poor life expectancy in COPA patients. Nevertheless, JAK inhibitor therapy seems to be the most promising therapeutic choice now. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objectives: This study explored the relationship between serum vitamin C levels, antioxidant defense mechanisms, and the severity of pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) among Romanian patients. Methods: This study enrolled 53 patients with bacteriologically confirmed pulmonary tuberculosis at Victor Babes University Hospital in Craiova between January 2023 and August 2024. Participants were stratified into two groups based on their serum vitamin C levels: 26 patients with normal levels and 27 patients with low levels. Clinical, demographic, and biological parameters, including inflammatory markers, such as C-reactive protein (CRP) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), were assessed at baseline and after 60 days of TB treatment. Serum vitamin C levels were measured using ELISA. The persistence of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) was evaluated using sputum smear microscopy and culture at baseline and after 2 months of treatment. Results: The results showed that patients with low vitamin C levels had significantly higher baseline ESR (92.63 ± 27.69 mm/h) and CRP (43.89 ± 12.00 mg/L) levels compared to those with normal levels (ESR: 65.11 ± 13.27 mm/h, CRP: 31.19 ± 9.76 mg/L). After 60 days, 66.67% of patients with low vitamin C levels remained culture-positive compared to 26.92% in the normal vitamin C group (p = 0.004). Multivariate analysis indicated that vitamin C deficiency was significantly associated with a higher TB culture load. Conclusions: These findings suggest that vitamin C deficiency may contribute to the persistence of MTB and highlight the potential role of vitamin C supplementation as an adjunct to standard TB treatment, particularly in the context of global efforts to eradicate the disease by 2035. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims: Postoperative recurrence in Crohn's disease remains a significant clinical challenge, with high recurrence rates despite advancements in medical therapy. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of various treatments for managing postoperative recurrence following ileocolonic resection in Crohn's disease. Methods: A comprehensive search of PubMed, Cochrane, and Scopus databases was performed to identify studies reporting on the therapeutic management of postoperative recurrence in Crohn's disease. Studies encompassing patients with an endoscopic Rutgeerts score of at least I2 were included. Results: Ustekinumab showed promise, achieving significant endoscopic and clinical success in difficult-to-treat patients. Anti-TNF agents demonstrated superior endoscopic and clinical remission rates compared to mesalamine and azathioprine. Retreatment with anti-TNF therapy remained effective even after preoperative failure. Thalidomide showed efficacy in refractory Crohn's disease, but carries significant toxicity risks, necessitating careful patient selection and monitoring. Combination therapies and non-pharmacologic strategies like enteral nutrition offer additional options, though patient compliance remains challenging. Conclusions: Personalized treatment plans based on individual risk factors and biomarkers are crucial. Infliximab is recommended as the first-line treatment, with ustekinumab and vedolizumab as alternatives in case of anti-TNF failure or intolerance. Early intervention, patient education, and ongoing evaluation are essential for optimizing long-term outcomes in managing postoperative recurrence in Crohn's disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of mortality worldwide, with a significant impact on socioeconomic aspects. Various biomarkers have been studied in relation to the diagnosis, progression, and prognosis of atherosclerotic disease, with lipoprotein (a) [Lp (a)] standing out as an important predictor of cardiovascular risk. This observational study aimed to clarify the association between Lp (a) levels and the severity of significant multivessel coronary lesions in acute myocardial infarction (AMI) patients. Materials and Methods: Conducted at the Clinical Emergency County Hospital of Craiova, Romania, the study involved 256 young patients divided into two groups based on Lp (a) levels: Group A (Lp (a) < 30 mg/dL) and Group B (Lp (a) ≥ 30 mg/dL). Patients included young adults up to 55 years for males and 60 years for females, excluding those with familial hypercholesterolemia. Results: The study revealed a significant association between elevated Lp (a) levels and the presence of multivessel coronary lesions. Patients with Lp (a) concentrations ≥ 30 mg/dL exhibited a higher prevalence of multivessel disease compared to those with lower levels. Discussion: The findings suggest that elevated Lp (a) levels are a crucial biomarker for the risk of coronary artery disease, particularly in young patients with AMI. The study emphasizes the need for aggressive lipid management strategies and personalized treatment approaches, considering the significant role of Lp (a) in atherosclerosis and AMI. Conclusions: Lipoprotein A levels above 30 mg/dL are associated with a higher prevalence of multivessel coronary lesions. Multivariate analysis revealed that higher Lp (a) levels and lower HDL levels are linked to an increased risk of multivessel coronary lesions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives : This observational study investigates the relationship between Lipoprotein (a) (Lp(a)) levels and the risk of acute myocardial infarction (AMI). This study aims to highlight the association of elevated Lipoprotein (a) levels with an increased atherogenic profile and the potential risk of AMI. Materials and Methods : We conducted a case-control study involving 106 individuals, including 64 AMI patients (both STEMI and NSTEMI) and 42 healthy controls. Comprehensive clinical and biochemical assessments, including Lp(a) measurements, were conducted. Results : Patients with Lp(a) levels ≥ 30 mg/dL had a threefold increased risk of AMI compared to those with lower levels, independent of traditional risk factors such as cholesterol, smoking, and body weight. Elevated Lp(a) was observed in 50% of AMI patients compared to 28.57% in controls ( p = 0.028). Notably, a multivariate analysis identified high Lp(a) levels, low HDL-C levels, and obesity as significant independent predictors of AMI, indicating these factors may contribute to AMI risk more prominently than other conventional risk factors in patients with elevated Lp(a). Moreover, the association between Lp(a) and AMI risk was consistent across various patient subgroups, with low HDL-C further compounding the risk. Conclusions : Lp(a) is a significant independent risk factor for acute myocardial infarction; therefore, screening for Lp(a) levels can help identify high-risk individuals beyond traditional markers. Therapeutic approaches targeting Lp(a) may reduce AMI incidence. Future research should explore how Lp(a) promotes atherosclerosis and assess Lp(a)-lowering therapies to improve patient outcomes.